ISSUE: Feb 2018
87
TOWNSVILLE
ALLIED HEALTH HOME: ON TREND
WHY DO KIDS FIDGET? TINY TOTS ACTIVIY GUIDE LOVE, LOVE, LOVE NEWBORNS: THINGS NOBODY TELLS YOU
FREE www.pakmag.com.au | February 2018 1
CONTENTS 4
Entertainment: Check It Out
7
The Thing Is... With Bree James
8
Feature: Love, Love, Love
1 1
Allied Health: What is it and Why do we Need it?
15 Principal’s Pen 17
Education: Why do Kids Fidget?
21 Health
Welcome to the February edition of PakMag. I’m really going to make an effort this year to not talk about how fast the year is going. I feel like every year we talk about how we “can’t believe it’s February already, it was Christmas two minutes ago!” When we talk like that, it perhaps indicates that it has time has slipped by without us noticing, and that’s no way to live. So, join me this year in living life and appreciating every moment! With the big kids back at school (yippee!), this month we’re focussing on the little ones. Our Tiny Tots Guide on page 37 is the ultimate guide to activities available for Under 5s in Townsville.
23 Bump, Bub and Beyond: Things Nobody Ever Tells You About Newborns
We’re continuing our New Year’s resolution to be healthier this year, and our feature on Allied Health is a great way to get to grips with your options health wise.
24 Bump, Bub and Beyond: WIN
Do your kids fidget? Learn how fidgeting and learning can be linked and the best practises to encourage healthy behaviours when it comes to this issue, on page 17.
27 What’s On Guide 29 Mini Mag 37 Tiny Tots Activity Guide 41 Business 43 Fun Lessons for all at Swimland 45 Identifying Challenges in Your Child
We’re busily preparing for our Easter event in March and details will be released very soon, so make sure you’ve liked our Facebook page for updates. Until next time, have a great month and don’t forget to tell them you read it in PakMag.
49 Romantic Recipes 50 Snapped 52 Mater Snapped 54 Celebrate: Sporty Spree
Bree James Grand Publishing Founder and Editor-in-Chief
58 Daddy Diary
On the cover Sari Oar from City Cheer & Dance, www.citystudiostsv.com.au Contact Us: p 4053 3331 f 4053 3350 e admin@grandpublishing.com.au a PO Box 7433 Cairns Qld 4870 / Unit 5, 78 Anderson St, Cairns fb facebook.com/pakmagtownsville t #pakmag
Grand Publishing Founder and Editor-in-Chief Bree James
Marketing to Families Experts Lisa Gillman Janelle May
Operations Manager Rose Foster
Sub-Editor Kate Moloney
Graphic Designer Clare Winter
Accounts Trent Stievano
56 Home with Caro & Kingi: On Trend
Supply & Distribution Manager Gleisy Meireles Media Intern Monique Saggers Social Media Intern Kalisha Fitsch
Disclaimer: No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole without the expressed permission of the editor. Whilst the greatest of care is taken to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct at the time of going to press, readers are advised to check details before visiting. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions. The expressions expressed within PakMag are not necessarily the views of the publishers, but those of individual writers. Net Distribution Per Issue 10,000 CAB Publisher Statement Period ending 30th July 2018
www.pakmag.com.au | February 2018 3
Entertainment
CHECK IT OUT Get Active Expo 2018 When: Sunday, 4 February, 10.00am to 2.00pm Where: Townsville Stadium More Info: www.activetownsville.com Hop along to find out about the different sports and activities available. Sign up to clubs and classes and check out active exhibitors. With over 100 sport, recreation, health or fitness organisations at this exhibit there is bound to be something for everyone. For more information check out Townsville’s Active and Healthy website.
2018 CCF QLD Townsville Networking Dinner When: Thursday, 22 February, 6.00pm to 9.00pm Where: Jam Corner, 1 Palmer Street More Info: www.eventbrite.com.au AEIOU Townsville Open Day and Workshop
This event includes gourmet canapes and three hour beverage package.
When: Wednesday, 14 February, 9.00am to 11.00am
Dress code: Smart casual Tickets from $91.03
Where: AEIOU Townsville More Info: www.aeiou.org.au or townsville@aeiou.org.au This workshop is focused on early intervention for autism, and provider AEIOU Townsville will open its doors to interested families. Providing information and insights on how the AEIOU program develops functional communication, behaviour, social and independence skills and gives children and their families the best chance to reach their full potential. You are welcome to bring along a support person to accompany you. Registrations are essential
Cars 3 at Riverway When: Friday, 16 February, 7.15pm Where: Riverway Lagoons More Info: www.townsville.qld.gov.au Take your togs and towel, cool off and watch Cars 3 on the big screen at Riverway Lagoons! Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast cars, the legendary Lighting McQueen finds himself pushed out of the sport that he loves. Hoping to get back in the game, he turns to Cruz Ramirez, an eager young technician who has her own plans for winning. Free Event
4 February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au
2018 Chinese New Year Carnival When: Saturday, 24 February 2018. 5.30pm – 9:30pm Where: Strand Park More Info: www.facebook.com/tsvchinese Join in the family celebrations at the Chinese New Year Carnival. Lots of fun, food and entertainment for all the family, so get down to Strand Park. Don’t forget your chair!
SAVE THE DATE Nth Qld Babies and Kids Market When: Saturday, 3 March, 8.30am to 12.30pm Where: Emmaus Hall Ryan Catholic College, Morindo Dr More Info: www.nthqldbabiesandkidsmarket.com North Queensland Babies and Kids Market has good quality, pre-loved, new and handmade items, plus information and promotional stalls. Join this exciting morning shopping for bargains and beautifully handmade items. Tickets $2 Adult | Kids are free.
The Thing Is
The Thing Is... STORY Bree James
School has been back a couple of weeks, the routines have been established (as much as any family can be organised, ha ha!), and the kids are making new and solidifying old friendships. Everything seems to be going well, then ‘BAM!’ your child is upset because of a bully making their lives a misery. The thing is, up and down relationships are a part of everyone’s life at some point. But it’s important to know the difference between a row between friends and when your child is being bullied. Children can be relentless. I know that all too well. I certainly was not a popular child when I grew up, in fact, quite the opposite. My childhood was day after day of tears due to severe bullying to the point I started playing with and helping the special needs kids. Then one day, one of the girls pushed me backwards down 12 stairs, and my teacher suggested that from then on I should hang out in the classroom during lunch breaks and do jobs for her. I cleaned storerooms, did photocopying, and helped her do heaps of jobs. I was happier, and I found my role in the school. It was the beginning of my finding my role in life. Unfortunately, in high school the bullying continued, one afternoon riding home from school, my front tyre came off over a speed hump because someone had undone the bolts. My mum was furious and told the Principal. Unfortunately, he couldn’t contend with all 1,200 students laughing at the situation in assembly the next day, and mocking me for months after! I have so many stories that I laugh about now, but when I look back at those hurtful times, I realise how hard it must have been for my mum, as well as me. I didn’t know it then, but I had something inside me that helped me deal with my situation in a constructive way. It’s something I count myself lucky for, as without it, my experience may have been a more tragic one.
Bullying sucks, it really does, and in the digital age it is even scarier as at least I could go home from school, and the bullying stopped so I got a break from it. Unfortunately, our kids these days often aren’t that lucky. With stories in the news about children who suicide as a result of relentlessly being put down, told they’re worthless and even being physically bullied, it really puts into perspective how much we really have to do as a society to stop this epidemic. We know all too well of the keyboard warriors who criticise others from the comfort of their own homes and it is all too easy for children to get into this habit too. Cowardly bullies and anonymous messaging apps are a recipe for disaster. These times are very different to when I was being bullied at school, and my mum could physically see my wounds most of the time. But the injuries to selfconfidence, self-belief and self-worth, caused by cyber bullying, are invisible. Thankfully, I have grown into a resilient person as a result of my experiences, and was lucky that from an early age, I realised I had my own special place in the world. But explaining to a child that they are special, when they just want to fit in, is truly difficult. Show your kids how even the most successful people have been where they are. People from Oprah to Tony Robbins, Charlize Theron to Jim Carrey have all come out the other side. Adversity is not always a negative; it can ignite a fighting spirit that can lead us to do incredible things. Something for us all to ponder more.
www.pakmag.com.au | February 2018 7
LOVE, Love, Love, LOVE, Love LOVE STORY Bree James
8 February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au
Feature
They say love makes the world go round, but with more distractions and everyone getting busier and busier, are we loosing the ability to really connect to people and love with our whole hearts? I think so. I read an article recently that warned that loneliness and social isolation have the risk of becoming a greater public health threat than obesity. However, we can interact with pretty much anyone, anywhere at any time; our world is more connected than it has ever been. How is loneliness even possible? I thought about it some more and realised that personally I have felt quite lonely the past few years, even though I have a lot of great people and things in my life to keep me busy. So I can only imagine what life is like for someone who doesn’t have these things and how lonely they would feel. So why is loneliness on the increase? I believe it’s because of a lack of quality connections with others. Many of us have war scars from life, where we have ‘loved and learned’ and it makes us very weary to let others in. A lot of us hold people at arm’s length so that we cannot be hurt by them and so that we don’t hurt them too. But the downside to doing that is that we feel like no one really understands us, we aren’t really close to anyone, and we feel lonely, unworthy, and unloved. Most of us are living life a bit like a robot; do what needs to be done, keep your emotions stable and try not to let anyone upset you or anyone around you, and above all keep moving forward at all costs. So what should we do if we are not feeling the love? Here are a few things to think about. 1. Work out your love language. If you haven’t read “The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts” by Gary Chapman, it’s a great read. It helps you identify how you show love to others, and also what you need to feel loved by others. You rate whether Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Receiving of Gifts, Quality Time, or Physical Touch is most important to you to give love and receive love. You could show your love through Acts of Service, but to feel loved you need Words of Affirmation. The problem that happens is that people around us feel love in a different way from us too. So, to feel loved, your partner may need to receive gifts, but you don’t show your love that way very often. But once you know your love language and that of those around you, you are better at giving and receiving love.
•• Write down some things you could do for your lover, children, family, friends, colleagues and community to show them that you love them. The more love we show others, often the more love we feel. •• If you are up for it, you can also do the opposite to all of these questions too. 3. Take some time out. It’s really hard to get clarity on your life when you are in it. Get some alone time so that you have time to reflect and have some honest conversations with yourself, even if it’s an hour to go for a walk. 4. Do an audit. Take a look at your life and write down all of the things that make you feel less love. Less love for yourself, less love for others, and less love for the planet. I stopped watching TV three years ago, limited my engagement with negative news, stopped doing things that made me feel less love for myself (eating crappy food, and not taking care of my body), and began trying my best to do better for the planet. Even cutting down by 10 per cent will make a difference to your life, like only hopping on social media between 8pm and 9pm once a day. Observe how things in your life make you feel. 5. Plan some connection time. Everyone needs attention. But with less time, we give less of it to the people we love and not in the way that they want. What gets planned has more chance of getting done than just going with the flow. Work out the top ten people (or however many people you want to connect with) and plan them in. •• Do a phone roster. Call parents every Saturday, call brother first Saturday of the month, call friend every Wednesday. •• Have a socialising plan. Do lunch monthly with BFF, do dinner fortnightly with partner, plan a girls get together bi-monthly. •• Have a weekend/holiday plan. Annual holiday with family, 3 weekends away, annual girls weekend, annual weekend to yourself. What does it look like? What do you want to do? •• Work out some rituals. What are little things you can do daily to give love to yourself? Exercise, yoga, meditate, have a bath? Write on little pieces of paper all the things you do to give love to yourself, put them in a jar and pull one out at random every day if you need variety.
2. Work out what you want. It’s paper and pen time.
It’s very easy to be negative, cold and robotic in this world. So we need to get clarity, and focus on what is important to us and those around us, and make considered decisions that help us have more love in our life.
•• Write down the qualities you love about yourself that are important to you.
To give more love, and get more love, it starts with you. Only you can control the love in your life.
•• Write down the qualities you want the world to see in you. Are you showing them? •• Write down the qualities you want from the people in your life. •• Write down the things you want more of in life.
So please, love yourself as much as you can, and do things that light your fire and fuel it with all the things you need to keep burning. Only then can we can warm others, have them drawn to us and in turn, hopefully fuel the fire within them too.
www.pakmag.com.au | February 2018 9
Health
Allied Health: What is it and Why do we need it? STORY Rose Foster
Allied health is the term used to describe a broad range of healthcare professionals who don’t fall under the category of doctor, nurse or dentist. Allied health practitioners help patients with a range of conditions and illness including diagnosing and treating. Often, their role is to help patients to live their best life possible in terms of health, pain management and their ability to live as close to a ‘normal’ life as possible. When it comes to healthcare, sometimes navigating the plethora of options can be confusing. Our first port of call is generally our GP, which is a great first step in moving forward with our, or our children’s health issues. By definition, GPs deal with general health issues, but when more specific treatment is required, a referral to a specialist or allied health professional may be needed. That said, for many allied health services, a referral is not always necessary, but without fully understanding what allied health is and how these practitioners can help, many patients can feel lost in knowing where to start. So, let us guide you through the most common types of allied health professionals and when you should see them.
Chiropractor Chiropractors help with more than just neck and back pain; their purpose is to remove interference to the body’s natural healing power. It’s a holistic method of treatment that can help with numerous problems. For children, it may surprise you to hear that chiropractic treatment can be successful in assisting with issues such as colic, tongue-tie, digestive issues and behavioural problems. Physiotherapist Generally, physiotherapists help with physical development, rehabilitation and improved movement. If your child is experiencing physical developmental delays (i.e. there is a significant delay in meeting milestones), they have an unusual posture or they have low tone, a physiotherapist may be able to help. These professionals will work with your child to assess their limitations, set goals for their physical improvement and help your child in their journey to achieving these goals.
www.pakmag.com.au | February 2018 11
Health
Speech Pathologist
Dietitian
If your child has a developmental issue related to their speech i.e., they stutter, are missing speech milestones or struggle to articulate, the obvious choice is to see a speech pathologist. But despite what the name suggests, speech pathology is not simply about speech. Speech pathologists can help with cognitive-communication skills (including aiding cognitive processes related to attention, memory and awareness), social language (including understanding the different ways to communicate and following conversation rules), and even swallowing and feeding issues.
The very word ‘dietitian’ comes with a certain connotation of losing weight and healthy eating, but these professionals deal with behavioural issues and digestive issues, and they can also provide a plan for children with special healthcare needs such as cerebral palsy and developmental disabilities.
Occupational Therapist Referred to as OTs, these professionals help people improve their everyday lives by improving their ability to perform tasks. Whether your child has an injury, physical disability, psychological problem or intellectual disability, an OT can help your child develop independent living skills, or maximise your child’s ability to perform tasks themselves. OT treatment is tailored to the individual’s situation. Osteopath Osteopaths treat musculoskeletal problems and for children, osteopathy can help with the effects of cerebral palsy, developmental dysplasia of the hips and growing pains. For babies, walking issues and foot pain can be resolved through this type of treatment.
Psychologist Psychologists are trained to help with issues that may prevent children (and adults) from reaching their full potential from a mental standpoint. Managing behavioural issues, helping with coping mechanisms, dealing with emotional challenges and working with patients with anxiety are amongst the most common ways that psychologists help. And the list doesn’t stop there. There are a multitude of different specialists that you and your child could benefit from seeing depending upon your ailments and issues. For example, services such as Innate Therapies offer counselling but use a technique called Clayfield to treat children and adults who have experienced trauma. The concept behind this integrates physiological and psychological elements. Through therapy combining touch, patients experience a level of security which helps them overcome PTSD and trauma related problems. You can find out more about this type of therapy at our website, or by visiting www.innatetherapies.com
And sometimes, looking into allied health doesn’t have to be as a result of an issue. It’s important that we know that we’re living the best life possible. Pharmacists are classed as allied health professionals and can help you to understand your body and how to ensure you remain healthy and recover quickly. At Calanna Whole Health Pharmacy, for example, their myDNA tests help you discover the best types of exercise for your body, which foods you should eat and which you should avoid, and how each medicine will affect you (to make sure you’re taking the most effective medication for you). Bree went to try out these tests, check them out below.
WATCH THE VIDEO IN THE ONLINE MAG
WATCH THE VIDEO IN THE ONLINE MAG
Finding the right allied health professional for you may take time as the issue may not be immediately apparent. Working together with your GP can really help point you in the right direction. Sometimes, you may simply want to take steps yourself to figure out which type of therapy works best for you and your child. For many problems, there’s no right or wrong solution. Some problems can be treated just as effectively by one as another. Sometimes a combination of therapies will be necessary. One important thing to remember is that no matter what therapy is needed, it is generally the case that early diagnosis and treatment makes for better results, so if you think your child needs to see a professional, don’t delay.
12 February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au
Principal’s Pen
PRINCIPAL’S PEN
Townsville Grammar School
The Cathedral School
Timothy Kelly, Principal
Luke Baills, Head of Junior School
My family and I are very excited to have arrived in Townsville. The warm North Queensland welcome we have received since our arrival has been greatly appreciated.
Connect. Acknowledge. Wonder
As only the twelfth Principal of Townsville Grammar School in its 130-year history, it is with a deep sense of honour and duty to have the opportunity to lead and serve the Grammar community. With significant experience in the independent education sector and as a parent of three children, I am acutely aware of the importance of making the right choice of school for your children’s education. Townsville Grammar School seeks to provide a safe, nurturing environment where a broad and stimulating education is offered, thereby enabling our students - your children - to develop as informed, thoughtful and responsible young people. Alongside a strong focus on academic development, important lifelong values such as mutual respect, tolerance of difference and compassion for others are explicitly taught. This occurs in a learning environment where your child’s natural curiosity and sense of adventure in their endeavours are encouraged and fostered. As a school, our aim is to create a partnership with your family so that we can work together to enable your child to achieve their personal best in all that they do.
Learning is the core business undertaken at The Cathedral Junior School. We believe that students learn best when they: •• are connected •• are acknowledged •• wonder Over the recent school holidays, The Cathedral Junior School Library underwent a significant transformation into what is now known as The Wonder Hub. The primary purpose of the Wonder Hub is to inspire wonder. The Wonder Hub is a collaborative space that builds upon the traditional library services and incorporates Museum based learning. Staff use provocation to inspire, engage and provoke student learning. Students will be encouraged to follow existing passions, spark new interests and above all else, learn new knowledge and skills in a meaningful context. Spaces within the Wonder Hub include an artefact room, a maker space, a clean construction zone and a collaborative zone. Student learning is made visible with learning documentation and display areas where students can showcase their learning to all who visit.
Since 1888, Townsville Grammar School has been opening doors for its students and I believe a Grammar education is well worth your consideration.
The Wonder Hub aims to build connections in learning through fostering relationships with the wider community giving students the opportunity to learn from experts in their field. The Wonder Hub is a place of learning for everyone.
e tgs@tgs.qld.edu.au www.townsvillegrammar.com
e tcs@cathedral.qld.edu.au www.cathedral.qld.edu.au
www.pakmag.com.au | February 2018 15
Education
Why do kids fidget? STORY Kait Cummins, Occupational Therapist, The Play Project.
Ever wondered why your child fidgets so much and if it’s something you should be worried about? Have you ever noticed how your energy changes when you've been sitting for a while compared to when you walk to the fridge to grab a drink? This happens because moving helps us to regulate our attention. Think back to how much you learnt when your kindergarten teacher made you sit and watch how to cut and paste a picture, compared to how much you learnt by actually doing the activity yourself. Today there are more than 33,000 research papers that demonstrate the impact and importance of movement and learning. As adults, we have dozens of strategies that we use every day to support us to move in subtle and appropriate ways to allow us to maintain the
attention that we need to complete tasks efficiently and concentrate well. Some of us exercise, meditate, drink coffee, snack while we work, play with our jewellery, tap our feet or cross and uncross our legs. We are in charge of our body and generally our environment so whenever we feel the need to, we can stand up and move, grab a snack or change tasks to allow us to keep our body in an optimal state for learning or working. Just like us, kids learn best through movement, so they instinctively find ways to help their body attend and focus. The difference is that kids are still learning what their body likes, what works in different situations (e.g. how to concentrate when sitting on the mat versus playing soccer) along with the rules or social expectations of the environment.
www.pakmag.com.au | February 2018 17
Education
For many kids, given the right environment and teachers, they learn this well and can adapt their body and fidget strategies to the demands of the task and environment. For others, there are other factors to consider, including: •• Overstimulation from technology. This is especially evident in kids who watch TV or play devices before school.
This is where an experienced occupational therapist can help. Through assessment and observation, they can support parents and teachers to identify strategies to enable the child to either manage or overcome the fidgeting behaviours. Some general examples of effective strategies include:
•• Lack of opportunities for intensive movement during the day, like getting their heart rate up.
•• Eliminate technology including the TV from the morning routine.
•• Working their muscles and banging and crashing.
•• Get to school early to allow lots of time to play on the climbing equipment before school. The Raising Children Network recently released the new Australian guidelines for healthy living which suggest that kids need two to three hours of active play per day of which at least one hour should be moderate to intense play, like running and climbing.
•• Asking them to sit still for too long. The attention span of a child is generally their age plus two, so of a typically developing five-year-old, you could expect them to sit still and listen for around seven minutes. •• Poor core strength or low muscle tone. This makes holding the sitting position very difficult for some children, and they will need to move more frequently to rest and reset their muscles. •• Food sensitivities. A qualified dietitian, naturopath or nutritionist who specialises in working with children can help you identify if there may be food related triggers. •• Neurological conditions; such as ADHD, ASD and sensory processing differences. •• Anxiety. •• Children who have been exposed to neglect or trauma. Does fidgeting have a positive or negative effect on concentration and learning?
•• Walk or ride to school. Be sure to let the child carry their own backpack as the weight provides ‘heavy work’ into their muscles and joints which gets their body ready for learning. •• Complete short movement breaks throughout the day. These are best when transitioning between tasks. •• Minimise processed foods in their diet, and align as closely as possible to the Australian healthy food guidelines for portion sizes and recommended daily intake amounts as fussy eaters tend to crave foods that exacerbate their fidgeting. A dietitian or nutritionist can help support you with this.
Kids are programmed to do what makes their body feel best, but what makes them feel best is not always the same as what helps them learn best. While lots of kids can listen and concentrate well by playing with an object in their hands or wandering around the room, other kids become more distracted by these attempts to self-regulate. The best approach for a parent or teacher is to observe how the child is learning while they are fidgeting and how much their fidgeting is impacting on the learning, safety and comfort of others. When the fidgeting is interfering with one of these areas, then support is recommended.
•• Limit the length of time the child is expected to sit still and whenever possible provide hands-on and multi-sensory learning opportunities, e.g. music, smart board, small group activities or games.
How can fidgeting be managed for best learning results?
If these strategies are having very little impact, a referral to a paediatrician or occupational therapist is recommended.
The better we can understand the exact cause of the behaviour, the more effective the interventions can be.
18 February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au
•• Brain food, crunchy snacks and drink bottles that have a straw nose are great for supporting attention and concentration. •• Sit and move cushions, wobble stools, weighted lap pillows, and discrete fidget toys like elastic bands or blue tac when introduced with clear boundaries can also help.
Health
HEALTH Give your heart some love
Going Viral
STORY Kalisha Fitsch
With the kids being back in care or school, it is the time of the year where we tend to see a rise in the spread of viral infections as they kindly share their germs amongst each other. One virus that is easily spread from one person to another is hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD). This common disease is mainly seen in children under the age of ten.
February is the month of love, a time when our heart tends to rule, a time when our heart is brought to the forefront of our thoughts. Let’s also make it a time when it’s overall health that is paramount too. Your everyday lifestyle choices affect the state of your heart. Be smoke-free. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your heart. If you want to quit smoking, speak to your doctor; there are an array of options available to help you quit, so don’t quit on quitting if your first option does not work. Manage your cholesterol. Cholesterol is a fatty substance carried around the body in the blood. When cholesterol levels are too high, this can pose a danger to the heart. Reduce your cholesterol levels by eating fresh fruits and vegetables and plain meat, poultry, and fish. Avoid foods that are high in saturated fats, such as sausages, fatty meats, cakes, and biscuits. Reduce your blood pressure. High blood pressure isn’t usually something you can feel. The causes often aren’t clear, but can be influenced by salty foods, weight, alcohol intake, and by how much physical activity you participate in. Some simple small changes to your diet and routine can help keep your blood pressure under control. Give your heart some love and make some easy lifestyle changes that could make all the difference. If you have any concerns regarding your heart’s condition ensure you consult your GP to discuss.
STORY Kate Moloney
HFMD is aptly named as it causes sores in a child’s mouth and a rash on their hands and feet. If your child has been infected with HFMD, they will also most likely present with a fever, a sore throat, be generally feeling unwell and irritable and be experiencing a loss of appetite. This virus is spread by either touching the fluid from inside the HFMD blisters, the nose and mouth or through sneezing and coughing. Bowel movements can also continue to carry the virus up to several weeks after infection. To prevent the spread of this virus, ensure good hygiene practices especially washing of hands and do not share items such as cutlery, cups, towels, toothbrushes and clothing. It is also really important to keep your child home if they are affected until the fluid in their blisters has dried up. As HFMD is a virus, there is no treatment, but you can reduce your child’s discomfort with pain relief and always ensure they remain hydrated. If you are concerned, consult your GP, or if your child complains of a headache, stiff neck or back pain seek medical advice immediately.
MyDNA Medication The MyDNA Medication test and report can provide tailored information on the best options for heart medications for your body based on your DNA. Based on the analysis of your genetic make-up the report provides health professionals with a tailored guide on which medications are more likely to work for you. Book online to take your test at www.calannapharmacy.com.au
www.pakmag.com.au | February 2018 21
Bump, Bub and Beyond
Things nobody ever tells you about newborns STORY Kate Moloney
Finding out that you are pregnant that very first time is such an amazing and emotional time. For many, it is a time of sheer joy and excitement mixed with a whole lot of fear and doubt. Suddenly, you are reading every book ever published on pregnancy and birth, trying to find out what you are about to encounter. Antenatal courses are attended as you prepare for the day that your new little bundle of joy will enter the world. All this preparation, yet somehow despite all of this, when we take our precious baby home, amazingly there are so many things that we discover that nobody ever told us about newborn babies.
force backwards. I stuck out my foot and caught the chair an inch from the ground. My friend was in awe, but really that was nothing. The time he went over the arm of the lounge was more impressive. I dove and caught him by the ankle; his hair was brushing the carpet. Phew, mama-save.” - Jodie Woodford, PakMag Ambassador. “Your body might not produce enough milk to feed your baby. This was a huge thing to realise. After almost two weeks, the reason my baby was crying all night was that she was starving! Once I started complementary feeding a bottle at night, I had an all-night sleeper.” Janelle May, PakMag.
I never knew that a one-week-old baby girl could pee with such force (and I’m sure deliberate aim) when their nappy was removed. I’m still not sure how I moved fast enough not to be hit, but I learnt from that day to have a new nappy open and prepped before removing the old one!
“When I had my boy, his jumpsuits were continuously wet around the bottom area, and I couldn’t work out why. It was doing my head in since I had no experience with boys, having only a girl. Then one day I worked it out! Make sure a certain part is facing south in the nappy, not up!” - Leah Sisley, PakMag Ambassador.
So, as a gift to new first-time mums to be and for experienced mums alike, for whom these will no doubt bring back a few funny memories, we are ‘lifting the lid’ on some of these secrets.
“No matter what anyone tells you, you never really believe what it’s truly like until you’re in the thick of it! People will tell you that you’ll never sleep a night of your life again, and you shrug it off and don’t really believe it. But it’s true!” - Steph Bartram, PakMag.
“Babies can projectile vomit and poo and hit someone a metre away. Baby boys get erections from birth, and it’s really awkward to change their nappy. And babies aren’t easy to feed, my second had a tongue tie which gave him colic.” - Bree James, PakMag Founder “I allowed my son to learn gravity on his own to a certain extent, but I still had a few moments when my super ninja came out. Once was at the beach at a 1st birthday party. My boy was sitting at a little table set and went to stand up and slide his chair back. The chair caught on a crack in the cement, and he flipped full-
“I freaked out when bub was lifted up for me to grab my first glimpse of her after an emergency caesarean. She was far from the little sweet-cheeked pink bundle I was expecting or had seen on a million TV shows. I never knew babies could be born with purple/bluish coloured skin and wished just one person had pre-warned me! I burst into tears at the sight of her, but that could have also been the fact I'd just given birth or the hormones or drugs I'd been pumped full of, but in hindsight probably all of the above!”- Victoria Hickey, PakMag Ambassador.
www.pakmag.com.au | February 2018 23
Bump, Bub and Beyond
BUMP, BUB AND BEYOND Featured products, reviews and prizes. Visit www.pakmag.com.au for your chance to win!
Maze Activewear
Glimmies Glimhouse pack
RRP $79.00, www.mazeactivewear.com.au
RRP $14.99, www.shop.funtastic.com.au
These figure flattering tights are super comfy. They will give you extra abdominal and thigh support with our breathable and seam-free tummy panel which grows with you during pregnancy. So no visible lines across your belly and no pulling up your belly band. It goes up to just below you bra, perfect for pregnancy pilates, yoga and any other workout really! Stability power mesh and hi-tech performance fabric wicks sweat from the skin to the fabric exterior. Mesh panels for enhanced breathability. What's not to love about ultimate support that's super comfy!
Glimmies is a collection of fairies, sent by the moon to take care of the “Glimmieswood” forest animals. This is why Glimmies have cute resemblances to forest animals and love endless adventures in the name of friendship. During the dark, Glimmies magically light up the wood shinning bright, creating a beautiful and magical light like a firefly. Glimmies always shine bright at night and hide their light, but in the dark or held in a cupped hand, they will reveal their beautiful glow to their human friends.
Protect-A-Bed® Signature® Series Queen Sized Mattress Protector and matching twin pack of pillow protectors RRP Queen $149.99 + Matching Twin Pack Pillow Protectors $59.99, www.protectabed.com.au Everyone Deserves the simple pleasure of a good night’s sleep. Protect-A-Bed’s® Signature® Series Queen sized Mattress Protector protects your mattress from spills and stains. You and your family from dust mite, mould and bacteria allergens. Made from TENCEL® a hypoallergenic wood based fibre it is softer than silk, cooler than linen and more absorbent than cotton. Protect-A-Bed’s® Miracle Layer® waterproof, yet breathable. Silent and comfortable, you won’t even know it’s there. Eczema Association sensitive skin tried and tested, approved by the National Asthma council of Australia Sensitive Choice Program. Proudly Australian made and owned.
24 February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au
Bump, Bub and Beyond
Six tips for starting kindergarten
Creating Early Friendships
STORY Goodstart Early Learning
STORY Kalisha Fitsch
Starting kindergarten is an important milestone in the life of a young child. Preparing for the transition is important, and taking a few simple steps can really help children make a confident start to their kindergarten year.
It can be easy to forget that we’re not the only ones in need of a social life, your little ones need one too. Being close to Mummy and Daddy is great, but interaction with other little ones is also important for their early development. Here are some great ways to help your toddler (and you) socialise with others early in their life.
1. Organise a play date – It helps you feel confident about the centre while your child gains familiarity with their educators and environment. 2. Start a conversation – Letting your child know what to expect can help them feel prepared. 3. Something special – A new (or hand-me-down) item helps children feel excited about their upcoming kindergarten experience. 4. Role play – Act out the new routine! There is nothing like a game of role play to practice the family’s new routine. 5. Get organised – Getting children ready in the morning can be a rushed process on a usual day, so ensure you give yourself and your children time to get ready. 6. Plan your exit – Give a warm but short goodbye and tell your child the time you’ll be coming back. Don’t linger, it creates nervousness, and your child may wonder why they are getting an extra-long cuddle. If you have any questions about starting kindergarten, don’t hesitate to ask the Centre Director or Teacher. They’re there to ensure your child develops a lifelong love of learning.
Host a playdate. Through interacting with other children around the same age as them, kids learn about perspective, negotiation, affection, and empathy. Especially when interacting with cousins, this will strengthen their bond as family members and keep them close together as they grow up. Playdates are also a great idea to introduce your child to your friends’ children. Go to a playgroup. This is a great way to meet other parents and to introduce your child to activities that they may not have access to at home. Playgroups can be the start of long-term friendships that may continue well into school years. Join a class. Joining a class with your son or daughter can be a great bonding experience, where you get to learn something new whilst also meeting other parents and babies. There are numerous classes on offer including swimming, yoga or music to name a few. All of these are great ways for you as a parent to meet other parents which is beneficial to both yours and your baby’s social and emotional well-being. Need some inspiration then check out our Tiny Tots guide on page 37.
www.pakmag.com.au | February 2018 25
WHAT’S ON FEB FEB
With 4TO FM’s Minty
THURSDAY 1
SUNDAY 4
WEDNESDAY 7
We Will Rock You Runs until 10 February Townsville Entertainment Centre www.tecc.net.au 7.30pm / $55 / Family
Get Active Expo
Creative Play
Townsville RSL Stadium
Term 1, Commenced 22 Jan.
1300 878 001
Runs every Wednesday until
10.00am / Free / Family
end of term. Bookings Essential.
Senior Netball Sign On Day Corcoran Park www.townsvillenetball.org.au 5.00pm / Free / Adult FRIDAY 2 U3A Tour Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 1.30pm / $5 / U3A Membership World Wetlands Day Walter Nesbit Park 4774 1693 8.00am / Free / Family Bloom Yoga - Child Friendly Class Every Friday until 27 April North Townsville Community Hub www.facebook.com/ BloomYogaTownsville 9.00am / Cost / Family SATURDAY 3 Cowboys Community Day Townsville RSL Stadium 1300 462 692 10.00am / Free / Family Gypsy Jazz and Latin Music Summit The Carlton Theatre whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au 7.00pm / $15 cash / Family
Renegade Handmade Marian School 0477 900 222 8.00am / Free / Family
La Luna Youth Arts MONDAY 5 Shuffle and Shake Term 1, Commenced 22 Jan. Runs every Monday until end of term. Bookings Essential. La Luna Youth Arts www.lalunanq.com 9.30am / $120 / Ages 3 - 5 Frog ID Talk with
Call for Entries: Percival Portrait Painting Prize 2018 Perc Tucker Regional Gallery, Townsville Facebook/ PercTuckerRegionalGallery 8.00am / Free / Family
www.lalunanq.com 9.30am / $120 / Ages 1 - 3 FRIDAY 9 Manga Hokusai Manga Runs until 11 March Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family
WEDNESDAY 14 Miss Songs Valentine’s Day The Ville Resort-Casino www.the-ville.com.au 5.30pm / Cost / Adult
Kids Lit Meeting
Dr Jodi Rowley
Townsville Writers and
Museum of
Publishers Centre
Tropical Queensland
www.facebook.com/twpc.inc/
www.mtq.qm.qld.gov.au
6.30pm / Gold Coin / Kids
11.00am / Free with Museum
SATURDAY 10
TUESDAY 6
Waitangi Day 2018
Art-box
townsvillewaitangiday17@gmail.com
Pinnacles Gallery
9.00am / Free / Family
10.00am / Free / Ages 0 - 5 Rumble Tumble Term 1, Commenced 22 Jan. Runs every Tuesday until end of term. Bookings Essential. La Luna Youth Arts www.lalunanq.com 9.30am / $120 / Ages 3 - 5
Sweet Valentines: Dinner and Neil Diamond Tribute Show Burdekin Theatre 4783 9800 Call for Information
Entry / Family
4773 8871
MONDAY 12
Western Lions League Grounds
SUNDAY 11
AEIOU Townsville Open Day and workshop AEIOU Townsville www.aeiou.org.au Check Website FRIDAY 16
Townsville World Travel Expo 2018 Townsville Stadium www.travelexpo.net.au 9.00am / Free / Family
Cars 3 Riverway Lagoons www.townsville.qld.gov.au 7.15pm / Free / Family
Free Try Sail Day The Strand whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au 9.00am / Free / Family
Chinese New Year Dinner The Ville Resort-Casino www.the-ville.com.au 6.30pm / Cost / Adult
www.pakmag.com.au | February 2018 27
WHAT’S ON FEB FEB SATURDAY 17 Tackers 1. Kids + Boats = Fun Townsville Sailing Club 4772 1105 Call for Information
Bridge Lessons on Tuesdays Runs until 28 March Townsville Bridge Club - Club House townsville.fnqbridge.com 9.30am / $6 / Family
SUNDAY 18
WEDNESDAY 21
Family Fun Day Perc Tucker Regional Gallery 4727 9011 10.00am / Free / Family
Morning Melodies - 1RAR in Concert Riverway Arts Centre 4727 9797 10.30am / $14 / Family
Sunday on Flinders Single Mingle Flinders St. Cotters Market 0400 261 369 9.30am / Free / Family Cupid’s Undie Run Seaview Hotel www.cupidsundierun.com.au Check Website TUESDAY 20 Art-box Pinnacles Gallery 4773 8871 10.00am / Free / Ages 0 - 5
THURSDAY 22
World’s Greatest Shave Trivia/Auction Night The Brewery mcmahon.daniel@hotmail.com 6.00pm / $120 / 18+ Townsville Highland Dancing Festival Townsville Highland Dancing Association www.townsvillehighland.com.au Check Website SUNDAY 25
With 4TO FM’s Chooky
SAVE THE DATE: SATURDAY 3 MARCH Nth Qld Babies and Kids Market Emmaus Hall Ryan catholic college Morindo Dve nthqldbabiesandkidsmarket.com 8.30am / $2 Adult / Famliy SAVE THE DATE: FRIDAY 9 MARCH NQ Cowboys vs Cronulla Sharks 1300Smiles Stadium premier.ticketek.com.au 6.50pm / Cost / Family
2018 CCF QLD Townsville Networking Dinner Jam Corner, 1 Palmer Street www.eventbrite.com.au 6.00pm / Cost / Adult
A Taste of Bavaria - Die Frankfurter Oompah Band Carlton Theatre www.townsvillemusic.org.au 2.00pm / $25 / Family
SATURDAY 24
WEDNESDAY 28
TUESDAY 20 MARCH
Chinese New Year Carnival Strand Park www.ttcci.org.au 6.30pm - 9.30pm / Free / Family
Jimmy Carr - The Best of Ultimate, Gold Greatest Hits World Tour Townsville Entertainment Centre www.tecc.net.au 8.00pm / $79.90 / 18+
Neil Diamond - 50 Year Anniversary Tour 1300Smiles Stadium premier.ticketek.com.au 7.00pm / Cost / Youth+
28 February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au
SAVE THE DATE:
www.pakmag.com.au | February 2018 29
A MYSTERY PRIZE!
FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO: PakMag Colour In February 2018 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 Win a mystery prize! Competition closes 28/02/2018
Name Parent/Guardian Address Postcode Phone Email
30 February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au
Age
Mini Mag
A MYSTERY PRIZE!
FOR YOUR CHANCE To WIN, COMPLETE & mail TO: PakMag Colour In February 2018 PO Box 7433, Cairns QLD 4870 Win a mystery prize! Competition closes 28/02/2018
Name
Age
Parent/Guardian Address Postcode Phone Email www.pakmag.com.au | February 2018 31
WIN!
PRIZES UP FOR GRABS! 1
2
3
4
5
1. Emporio Organico Magenta U-Konserve Glass water bottle - RRP $30.00 - www.emporioorganico.com.au - These lightweight, leak-proof glass bottles are the safe, ecofriendly alternative to plastic. The silicone sleeve provides non-slip grip and added protection, and design allows you to see contents inside. These glass bottles are hand blown. 2. Healthy Kids Cookbook - RRP $24.99 - www.dk.com.au - More than 60 delicious and easy recipes for any child learning to cook! With step-by-step recipes, full-page colour photography, notes for the parents and variations to suit different tastes and dietary requirements, this book is perfect for any household that has young chefs in training! 3. Make Science Fun Experiments Book - RRP $19.99 - www.newhollandpublishers.com - Make Science Fun Experiments teaches scientific concepts and ideas through fun, memorable experiments and activities that can easily be performed at home using common household items, and engaging content. 4. Kiddies Food Kutter - RRP $10.00ea www.kiddiesfoodkutter.com.au - The safety knife that won’t cut fingers! Suitable for all skill levels for children 2 years onwards, left and right handed, and for kids with special needs or a disability. This safety knife can be used to cut everything from soft fruit to hard vegetables. 5. PATCH - RRP: $7.99 - 9.99 - www.patchstrips.com - PATCH are range of natural adhesive strips made from organic bamboo fibre and bamboo gauze. With natural healing ingredients such as activated charcoal, coconut oil and aloe vera, there’s a PATCH strip for everyone. Developed by an Aussie dad who discovered his little son was allergic to regular adhesive bandages, the PATCH range suit all skin types, particularly those with sensitive skin who experience irritation and redness from common adhesive plasters.
32 February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au
WHAT’S ON REGULAR MARKETS Balgal Beach Markets Date: 1st Saturday of the month Time: 8.00am - 1.00pm Location: Fishermans Landing Balgal Beach Bluewater Twilight Markets Date: 2nd Saturday of the month Time: 4.00pm - 8.00pm Location: Bluewater Community Centre Label Traders Market Date: 3rd Sunday of the month Time: 8.00am - 12.00pm Location: Mundingburra State School
Bush n Beach Markets Date: 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month Time: 8.00am – 1.00pm Location: Bushland Beach
Horseshoe Bay Markets Date: Every 2nd and last Sunday of the month Time: 9.00am - 2.00pm Location: Horseshoe Bay Foreshore
Magnetic Island RSL Market Date: Every Friday (Excluding Good Friday) Time: 5.30pm - 8.00pm Location: Magnetic Island RSL
Carlyle Gardens Arts & Crafts Markets Date: 1st Saturday of the month (Mar - Dec) Time: 9.00am Location: Carlyle Gardens Retirement Resot, Beck Drive, Condon
Lucinda Markets Date: 2nd Sunday of the month (May to September) Time: 8.00am – 12.00pm Location: Borello Park
Strand Night Markets Date: 1st Friday of the month (Runs from May to Dec) Time: 5.00pm - 9.30pm Location: Strand Park
Castle Hill PCYC Markets Date: Every Sunday Time: 7.00am to 11.00am Location: Castle Hill PCYC
Willows Rotary Markets Date: Every Sunday Time: 7.30 - 11.30am Location: Willows Shop Centre Carpark
NQ Farmers Market Date: Every Saturday Time: 6.00am - 12.00pm Location: North Shore Town Centre Cotters Markets Date: Every Sunday Time: 8.30am - 1.00pm Location: Flinders St & Townsville Bulletin Square.
Mountainview Plaza Market Date: Every Saturday (Excluding Jan) Time: 8.00am - 2.00pm. Location: Mountainview Plaza Renegade Handmade Market Date: 2nd Sunday of the month Time: 8.00am - 1.00pm Location: Marian School
Upper Ross Community Markets Date: 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month Time: From 3.00pm Location: Apex Park, Riverway Drive, Rasmussen
Email your event or market to admin@grandpublishing.com.au to be included. Spaces are limited.
www.pakmag.com.au | February 2018 33
Regular Events
REGULAR EVENTS TOWNSVILLE GALLERIES Art-Box - Free Art Activities for Kids Under 5 Days: First and third Tuesdays of the month Time: 10.00am Location: Pinnacles Gallery More Info: 4773 8871 Free Family Fun Day - Art Activities for the Family Days: Third Sunday of the month Time: 10.00am Location: Perc Tucker Regional Gallery More Info: 4727 9011 BELGIAN GARDENS STATE SCHOOL PLAYGROUP Days: Mondays Time: 9.00am - 11.00am Location: Belgian Gardens SS Hall More Info: 4717 1333 or rickandjules4@bigpond.com Cost: $2 per person FIRST FIVE FOREVER Parent Information Sessions Days: First Tuesday of the month Time: 9.30am, Location: City Libraries Aitkenvale More Info: www.townsville.qld.gov.au Cost: Free
Newborn and Family Drop-In Service Days: Tuesdays (9.00am to 2.00pm), Saturdays (9.00am to 12.00pm) Location: City Libraries Aitkenvale More Info: www.townsville.qld.gov.au Cost: Free Messy Play (Bookings Required) Days: Wednesdays Time: 9.00am & 10.30am Location: City Libraries Aitkenvale RIVERWAY PARKRUN Days: Saturdays Time: From 6.45am Location: Meet at the front of Tony Ireland Stadium on the grassed area near the ticket box. Riverway parkrun is a 5km course along Ross River which you can complete by running or walking (or both) and is for all ages. Children, prams and dogs are all welcome to join in the fun. Please note: Scooters and bikes are not allowed for safety and insurance reasons. This course is wheelchair friendly.
34 February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au
Registration is free and available at www.parkrun.com. au/riverway. MAINLY MUSIC For Babies to pre prep aged children. Fun, music, morning tea and free play Days: Thursdays (during school term) Time: From 9.30am Location: St Peter’s Anglican Church, West End Cost: $3.00 per child More Info: 0414 807 179
Location: Meet at Clubhouse 10 Sturgess St., Hermit Park More info: Sharon - 0412 341 768 TOY LIBRARY TOWNSVILLE (THE TOY SHED) Days: Second Thursday of month (excluding January) Time: 3.30pm - 5.30pm Days: Second Saturday (excluding January) Time: 9.00am – 12.00pm
MOPS - Mothers of PreSchoolers
Location: Fitzroy Street,
For mothers with children 0-6 years. Connect, relax and recharge.
Librarian: 0420 585 069 or
Days: Fridays – fortnightly during School terms Time: 9.30am - 11.30am Location: Mount Louisa House of Praise (425 Bayswater Rd) Cost: $9 per session More Info: 0421 658 535 (Juliana)
Heatley childsplaytownsville@gmail.com Secretary: 0400 815 279 or facebook Toy Library TOWNSVILLE TOY LIBRARY Days: Every Tuesday and Saturday
TOWNSVILLE LIFESTYLE HUB FREE FITNESS SESSIONS
Time: 9.30am - 11.00am
Fit Club Exercise
Railway Estate
Days: Tuesday & Thursday Time: 6.00pm Location: Meet at Clubhouse 10 Sturgess St., Hermit Park
Community Centre
Days: Saturday Time: 8.00am
Location: 23 First Street,
More Info: Check their Facebook page Townsville Toy Library for updates
Tiny Tots
TINY TOTS ACTIVITY GUIDE Activities for little ones aged 0 - 5 years
SPORTS
A two and half hour session is $11.00 for under 5s. Book online and you can save.
RUGBYTOTS
Located at 72 – 88 Hervey Road, Condon. Don’t forget to take your socks!
Rugby for 2 to 7-year-olds. This program, based on the skills of rugby, was designed to develop your child’s physical and social skills whilst having fun. They offer sessions throughout the week and on weekends at various Townsville locations for boys and girls in three different age groups: 2 to 3.5-year-olds, 3.5 to 5-year-olds and 5 to 7-year-olds. Term 1 has started, but you can join at any point during the term and only pay for the remaining sessions. To be involved in this great program, visit their website and book today to secure your child’s spot. P 0407 731 647 www.rugbytots.com.au
READY STEADY GO KIDS Multi-sport program for children aged 18 to 6 years. Ready Steady Go Kids is offering Australia’s leading award-winning multi-sport program for children. It develops essential motor skills in a fun, non-competitive environment. Their physio-designed program teaches children the fundamentals of 10 different sports: Soccer, Tennis, Hockey, AFL, Cricket, Athletics, Basketball, Golf, Rugby and T-Ball. Classes are run indoors by highly qualified coaches with a range of benefits crucial to early childhood development. Programs are run in line with the school terms, but they do accept enrolments throughout the term too, and fees are pro-rata to include only the remaining classes for the term. Bookings are essential. P 1300 766 892 E sharon@readysteadygokids.com.au www.readysteadygokids.com.au
P 4755 4422 F Facebook/Inflatablekingdomtownsville www.inflatablekingdom.com.au
LITTLE SNAPPERS SWIM SCHOOL, NORTHSIDE Learn to Swim classes and programs suitable for babies and toddlers. Free Newborn Program - For 2 and 3-month-old babies, an educational and stimulating water familiarisation program. Hatchling Program – From 4 months of age. Featuring seven different levels, babies and toddlers are grouped according to age with a maximum of four students per class. There’s an advanced class for swimmers who excel and a transition class to help toddlers ease into a class without mummy or daddy. Little Snappers Transition – Aged 24 to 36 months (parent on step). Little Snappers – Aged 3 to 5 years. For more information or to book a lesson check out their website or give them a call. P 4751 6111 E northside@littlesnappers.com.au www.littlesnappers.com.au
NORTH SHORE SWIM SCHOOL AT NORTHERN BEACHES LEISURE CENTRE Swim lessons from 6 months of age.
Get your tiny tot having fun in an active environment on massive jumping castles, a ball pit, climbing shapes and so much more.
Their lessons are focused on teaching real swim lessons for babies aged from 6 months with the goal of teaching your child a respect for the water, water safety and providing real swimming skills for movement and a love of the water. Their further aim is to create ‘thinking swimmers’, swimmers able to be safe and successful in any water environment from the beach, to the rivers and the backyard pool.
During the school term: Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9.00am to 1.00pm, Saturday 1.00pm to 5.00pm and Sunday 9.00am to 12.00pm.
The Northern Beaches Leisure Centre has heated program pools and change rooms with toilet and shower facilities and disability access.
During school holidays: Monday 9.00am to 3.00pm, Wednesday 1.00pm to 4.00pm, Friday from 9.00am to 3.00pm, Saturday 1.00pm to 5.00pm and Sunday 9.00am to 12.00pm.
P 4774 7593 E swim@nblc.net.au F Facebook/NBLC.North.Shore.Swim.School www.nblc.net.au (under construction)
INFLATABLE KINGDOM
www.pakmag.com.au | February 2018 37
Tiny Tots
PAUL SADLER SWIMLAND Swim classes from 4 months of age. A Swim Australia 5-star accredited, private swim school where they ensure that every child learns the skills needed to swim confidently, to enjoy the water, and to feel relaxed in a safe environment. Lessons at Swimland are fun for all. Swordy Tots - Baby, infant and toddler swimming from 4 months old. This baby swimming program is a great, fun way to introduce your baby to all the exciting adventures they can experience in the water. Learn to Swim – For children aged over 3 years.
(and everyone in between), their classes are a whole lot of fun for everone! Music and Movement Classes – For 2 years and up. Ready Set Dance Class – For 2 to 5-year-olds. Tiny Tot Classes – For 3 to 5-year-olds. Ready Set Ballet – For 4 and 5-year-olds. Song and Dance – For 5-year-olds. Bookings are essential. P 4723 2101 E admin@tapa.net.au www.tapa.net.au
LA LUNA YOUTH ARTS
This learner program provides great opportunities for your child to develop life-saving water safety and survival skills and become a competent swimmer in a tension free, fun and exciting environment.
Performing Arts Classes from 3 years of age.
If you are looking for great value, then check out their unlimited make up policy for missed regular classes (for current customers) plus their new defence discount.
Shuffle and Shake Dance Class – For 3 to 5-year-olds. Held on Mondays from 9.30am to 10.30am. Pint-sized Picassos Art Class – For 3 to 5-year-olds. Held on Thursdays from 9.30am to 10.30am. Rumble Tumble Circus Workshop – For 3 to 5-year-olds. Held on Tuesdays from 9.30am to 10.30am. Curly Whirly Drama Classes – For 3 to 5-year-olds. Held on Fridays from 9.30am to 10.30am.
Bookings are essential. For more information check out their website or give them a call. P 4779 4647 www.paulsadlerswimland.com
ARTS MAGGIE MOO MUSIC Interactive music sessions for 0 to 5-year-olds. These interactive music sessions are great fun for 0 to 5-year-old children and their parents, grandparents or carers too. Your child will sing, dance and play to the 125 original Moo Music songs which are positive, uplifting, fun and educational. Your child will gain confidence and develop memory, language and coordination skills in an exciting, enjoyable and multi-sensory way. Maggie Moo Music is a great way to make new friends for both you and your little one! For more information on session times and costs contact Melodie Cooper. P 0409 892 779 www.maggiemoomusic.com.au/areas/townsville
La Luna offers many different activities for your tiny tot and are excited to be a part of creating the artists and audiences of today, tomorrow and the future!
Their workshops are held primarily at the Riverway Arts Centre and are run over a 9-week term. Bookings are essential. P 4773 6377 E info@lalunanq.com www.lalunanq.com
CITY LIBRARY Fun Learning for Tiny Tots Your CityLibrary hosts heaps of fun, free and low-cost activities for children and young adults including First 5 Forever, Story Time, Baby Rhyme Time, Let’s Read, Children’s Book Week celebrations plus a range of school holiday programs. Pop down to your nearest CityLibrary and check out what they have which is sure to include: •• Picture books. •• eBooks, eAudiobooks, DVDs, and music. •• A Parents’ Collection •• TumbleBooks, ZipTales and many more programs online.
TOWNSVILLE ACADEMY OF PERFORMING
•• Games and puzzles at the Thuringowa branch.
ARTS (TAPA)
•• Toys in the children’s area of each library.
Dance classes for 2 to 5-year-olds. Offering a fully air-conditioned complex with a friendly encouraging atmosphere, with well-supervised classes taught by highly qualified teachers, their classes capture the attention of all pre-schoolers. From girls who love to twirl on their toes to boys who like to bust some moves
38 February 2018 | www.pakmag.com.au
CityLibraries Townsville has three locations in Flinders Street, Aitkenvale and Thuringowa Central as well as a Mobile Library service. For more information about your local CityLibrary check out their website. www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities-and-recreation/libraries
Business
WHAT’S NEW IN BUSINESS Meet Melanie von Bertouch from Coastal Kids Speech Pathology
Have you heard? Learn Naturally is a new tutoring program opened by Michelle Tilley, offering five different School Readiness Programs for Kindergarten children. At Learn Naturally, your child can attend a two-hour workshop each week for the duration of one school term. You have the option to choose the desired program or programs and suitable day and time to attend each week, and there are usually only six to eight children per workshop. During the workshops, your child will experience songs, stories and ‘getting to know you’ games, as well as group discussions, planned lessons and activities based on the You Can Do It! Education program. The children also work in smaller groups to complete turn-taking activities, such as board games or collaborative projects to work on their social interactions along with their fine motor development. The workshops end with a yoga and meditation session which helps the children to process and reflect. Learn Naturally are located at Shop 2, 237 Riverside Boulevard in Douglas. If you would like to find out more about their learning programs, give them a call on 4725 7548 or visit www.learnnaturally.com.au
Tell us about yourself and your family. I grew up in a small coastal town on the South Coast of NSW and Paul, my husband and I moved to Townsville with the Army in 2009. Tell us about your business. I started my private practice in a very small, part-time capacity when my first child was about six months old. It was important to have the flexibility of working hours that suited our family. Our services have grown, and we now have four full-time speech pathologists within our two clinics. What makes your business special? We always try to put families first in everything that we do; I have a young family, so we understand the juggling and stresses that families face. We work with families to give children the best outcomes. Why do you like living in FNQ? We love it; Paul discharged from the Army so that we could stay and raise our children here. I'm amazed by the variety of local community events; they get us outdoors with the kids enjoying our amazing climate. If you would like to discuss your child’s needs with Coastal Kids Speech Pathology give them a call on 0427 922 378 or visit www.coastalkidsspeech.com.au
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Advertorial
Fun lessons for all at Swimland The heat of summer is upon us, but it is never too late to start thinking about swimming lessons for both children and adults alike! At Paul Sadler Swimland, Riverside Gardens (a Swim Australia 5-star accredited, private swim school), we ensure that every child and adult learns the skills needed to swim confidently, to enjoy the water, and to feel relaxed in a safe environment. Coupled with fans on the pool deck and an air-conditioned viewing room with a TV for parents and siblings, lessons at our Swimland are fun for all! Our baby swim program, Swordy Tots is for babies aged four months to three years. It is a great, fun way to introduce your baby to all the exciting adventures they can experience in the water. The classes are full of fun activities that focus on water awareness, mobility, safety and survival. Your child won’t even notice that they are tackling new and challenging things every lesson as they will have so much fun! Plus, we offer these lessons free for infants aged four and five months. Our Learner Program is aimed at children three years and up, and to adults of any age. This program provides
a great opportunity for children and adults to develop life-saving water safety and survival skills and to become competent swimmers in a tension-free, fun and exciting environment. The Learners Program consists of 14 levels, encompassing all abilities, from beginners who are just learning to love the water right through to competent swimmers at squad level, able to achieve amazing things like open water swims, 1 km medals and their Swimland Diploma. A question many parents ask is, “What happens if we can’t make it to a lesson?” Lessons can get very expensive, especially if you don’t get to use them all. So, at Swimland we offer an unlimited make-up policy. If you miss your regular class for any reason, then as long as you are a current customer, you can book a catchup class. It not only adds great value but also great flexibility for busy parents! To find out about our Swordy Tots free lessons, our unlimited make-up Learner Program lessons, our new defence discount or any of the other exciting aspects of being part of our Swimland family simply visit our website or give our friendly staff a call.
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Challenges
Identifying challenges in your child STORY Nicole Brown, Director and Occupational Therapist, Townsville Occupational Therapy Service
My first child walked at nine months and my second at 15 months. My first child spoke two words at 18 months and my second spoke at 11 months. Such differences are expected, and it can be hard at times to know when something is not quite right with your child. The first five years of a child’s life are very important for their development. During these years, a child’s brain develops faster than at any other time in their life. Developmental changes include not only the physical growth and skills (e.g. rolling, walking or riding a bike) but also cognitive (e.g. thinking and learning), social and emotional (managing feelings, playing with others) and language and communication skills. It is important to remember that development is different for every child and typical development varies a lot. Some children will walk much later than others. Some children will talk early, some not until three and others will toilet themselves almost overnight whilst other three-year-olds will remain disinterested. As parents, we need to know what ‘typical’ development is so we can watch as our children grow and know when to seek advice or assistance. The following is a list of developmental ‘red flags’ for parents to be aware of. Having a ‘red flag’ doesn’t mean your child has a disability, but they may require additional help to address their area of developmental difficulty.
At six months, your child: •• Is crying a lot and difficult to settle. •• Isn’t making eye contact with you, isn’t following moving objects with his or her eyes. •• Isn’t babbling or turning towards sounds or voices. •• Doesn’t smile at people. •• Isn’t rolling. •• Has poor head control (can’t hold head up from shoulders when on their tummy). •• Doesn’t reach for objects. •• Has differences between right and left sides of their body in strength, movement. At 12 months, your child: •• Doesn't crawl or drags one side of the body while crawling. •• Can't stand when supported. •• Doesn't search for objects that they see being hidden. •• Says no single words. •• Doesn't use gestures such as shaking head for no. •• Doesn't point to objects or pictures. •• Can't walk (by 18 months). •• Doesn't walk heel-toe within a few months of walking. •• Doesn’t recognise familiar people.
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Challenges
At 18 months, your child:
At four years, your child:
•• Lacks interest in playing and interacting with others. •• Has no clear words.
•• Is unwilling or unable to play cooperatively with other children.
•• Doesn’t point, wave or use other gestures.
•• Has speech that is difficult to understand to a stranger.
•• Cannot hold or scribble with a crayon.
•• Is unable to follow directions with two steps, e.g. “Get your shoes and hop in the car.”
•• Does not attempt to stack blocks. •• Cannot understand short requests, e.g. “Where is the ball?”
•• Has difficulty eating with a spoon or fork and dressing. •• Is not toilet trained by day.
•• Isn’t attempting to walk without support.
•• Is unable to draw lines and circles.
•• Isn’t standing alone.
•• Doesn’t use sentences of more than three words.
At two years, your child:
•• Doesn’t pretend during play, e.g. doesn’t pretend to be mum or dad.
•• Doesn't speak at least 15 words. •• Doesn't use two-word sentences. •• Makes poor eye contact. •• Has no interest in self-care, such as dressing. •• Can't push a wheeled toy along the ground. •• Has trouble seeing or hearing things. •• Can’t follow simple instructions, e.g. “Please give me the ball.” •• Doesn’t copy actions or words, e.g. when singing Heads and Shoulders, Knees and Toes. •• Doesn’t pretend during play, e.g. doesn’t pretend to feed a doll. •• Isn’t showing feelings. •• Doesn’t come to you for affection or comfort. •• Can’t walk up and down stairs, even if holding on to you or a rail. •• Can’t run. •• Finds it hard to handle small objects, e.g. a crayon. •• Isn’t scribbling or trying to draw. At three years, your child: •• Frequently falls or has difficulty with stairs. •• Drools persistently or speaks unclearly. •• Can't communicate in short phrases. •• Doesn't understand simple instructions. •• Shows no interest in other children. •• Makes poor eye contact. •• Has no interest in self-care, such as toileting. •• Has little interest in toys. •• Can't build a tower of more than four blocks. •• Has trouble manipulating small objects, such as Duplo stacking or stringing beads. •• Can't copy a circle. •• Doesn’t pretend during play, e.g. doesn’t pretend play shops or riding on the bus. •• Can’t run.
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•• Has very challenging behavior, e.g. has big tantrums over very small things or still clings or cries when you leave. •• Seems very afraid, unhappy or sad a lot of the time. •• Is clumsy, e.g. trips over a lot when walking or running, can’t catch, throw or kick a ball or pedal a tricycle. At five years, your child: •• Cannot answer questions in a simple conversation. •• Is not using or understanding long sentences. •• Has difficulty telling a story (or re-telling). •• Has difficulty answering simple ‘wh’ questions, e.g. who, where, what questions. •• Has speech that is difficult to understand or is leaving beginning or end sounds off most words. •• Has difficulty engaging in play with other children. •• Is not independent with eating using a fork or spoon and dressing self. •• Cannot draw simple pictures, e.g. a stick person. •• Is clumsy when walking, running, climbing and using stairs. •• Has ball skills that are very different to their peers, e.g. catches a ball in an uncoordinated way. •• Is unable to hop five times on each foot. •• Can’t understand three-part commands, like “Put the doll down, get the ball from under the chair and put it in the box”. •• Is easily distracted and can’t concentrate on any single activity for more than a few minutes. It is important to note that this is not a complete list of developmental difficulties. If you have concerns for your child’s development at any time, it is best to seek out advice rather than to wait and see. As a first step, make an appointment with your GP or child health nurse. Health professionals that can also assist with your child’s development are paediatricians, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, psychologists and physiotherapists.
Romantic Recipes
ROMANTIC RECIPES
The Bounty Cake 8+ Serves. Recipe by Taline Gabriel @talinegabriel Base 1: ½ cup of pecans ½ cup almonds 1 cup shredded coconut 1 tbsp cacao powder ¼ to ½ cup of rice malt syrup 3 medjool dates pitted pinch of salt
Filling: 1 2 ½ cups cashews (soak 4 hours) ¾ cup rice malt syrup ½ cup coconut oil ½ cup coconut milk ½ cup non dairy milk 1 tbsp coconut butter (or nut butter) ¼ cup cacao powder
Base 2: ½ cup cashews (soak for 1-2 hours) 2 cups shredded coconut ¼ cup coconut cream 1-2 tbsp rice malt syrup 1 tbsp coconut oil 1 cup desiccated coconut
Chocolate: ¼ cup coconut oil 2-3 tbsp cacao powder 2 tbsp maple syrup 50g dark chocolate ¼ cup coconut flakes 1-2 tbsp buckinis
Base Method: To make base 1, reduce almonds, pecans and coconut to small pieces in the food processor. Add all other ingredients and process until well combined. To make base 2, drain and rinse cashews and process with shredded coconut. Add coconut cream, coconut oil and race malt and whizz. Remove from processor and stir desiccated coconut through the mix. Combine base 1 and 2 to create a marble effect. Press base (approx. 1cm in thickness) into 22cm round cake tin lined with baking paper and freeze. Roll remaining base mixture into varying size bliss balls. Place in the fridge. Filling Method: Drain and rinse cashews and blitz in processor with rice malt, coconut oil, coconut milk, non dairy milk, and coconut butter. Mixture should be smooth and creamy. Add cacao powder and pulse. Spread chocolate layer over cake base and freeze. When you are ready to serve the cake, remove from cake tin and place on a serving plate. Make the chocolate by whisking the coconut oil, cacao powder and maple syrup. Place bliss balls over the cake and randomly pour the chocolate over the middle allowing it to spill down the side of the cake. Sprinkle with buckinis and add coconut flakes. Beast eaten within 30 minutes of removing from freezer.
Recipe bought to you by The Source Bulk Foods. You can pick up quality, fresh ingredients for these recipes from The Source Bulk Foods. Check them out on Facebook: /TheSourceBulkFoodsNorthWard
Easy Valentines Fudge 2 ½ cups cake mix (we recommend red velvet) 2 cups icing sugar ½ cup butter ¼ cup milk 2/3 cup chocolate chips Heart-shaped sprinkles or icing to decorate Grab a square pan and line with baking paper. Put cake mix, icing sugar, milk and butter into a bowl and pop in the microwave for 2 minutes. Stir immediately until ingredients are thoroughly mixed together. Mix in chocolate chips whilst still warm so they melt slightly. Pour mixture into your pan and tap pan on counter to ensure it is a nice even layer. Decorate with sprinkles quickly so they stick to your fudge whilst it’s still warm. Alternatively, wait until the fudge cools completely and pipe on icing. Cover with glad wrap and put in the fridge for two hours. Cut into pieces then enjoy!
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1. Taya Johnson 2. Jade Ridley with Evalyn & Violet 3. Lexi Wittman & Bella Wittman 4. Diana & Ryan O’ Sullivan - Inflatable Kingdom 5. Tee Johnson & Shae Johnson 6. Mackenzie Cheetham 7. Kevin & Maria Moga with Dakota & Athena Moga 8. Mary Dillon, Jaycie Turner & Sophie Morris 9. Christian Mendoza 10. Shikeia Stone with Kostahn Stone Leigh Dever
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Photography thanks to: Josephine Carter - 0455 295 416 www.josephinecarterphotography.com
11. Sienna Allen & Asha Allen 12. Lauren De Vere with Jayce James 13. Kensi Macgregor & Michelle Bell - Inflatable Kingdom 14. Denis O’Brien with Great-grandchild Kostahn Stone Leigh Dever 15. Noah White & Levi White 16. Anna & Andreas Falk with Daughter Alicia Falk 17. Damien Tugwell with Jake & Aiden Tugwell 18. Indie Lowe - Inflatable Kingdom 19. Shona Clark with Daughter Natika Clark
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1. Maja Eriksson 2. Harrison John Rooke 3. Brad Hembrow with Baby Archie Hembrow 4. Stacey & James Forrest with Baby Cooper James Forrest 5. Mark & Kristy Vass with Baby Harley Mac Vass
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Photography thanks to: Josephine Carter - 0455 295 416 www.josephinecarterphotography.com
6. David Middleton, Meagan Middleton, big sister Laura Middleton and Baby Eloise Middleton 7. Big Brother Max Jones with Eli Phillip Jones 8. Mark Hurst & Liam Mark Hurst 9. Stacy Jacobsen and Baby Lucy Jacobsen
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Celebrate
SPORTY SPREE Kick off your next party the sporty way! There are so many ways to get creative with a sports-themed party to make it a memorable experience for your child. Are you looking to make your little athlete’s next party extra special? Here are some fantastic suggestions: Go team! Before everyone arrives, it’s time to turn your house into a stadium. Decorate the party area with items from your child’s favourite sport or team, such as banners and buntings in their team colours. If you want to take it a step further, you can transform team coloured shirts into sports jerseys by writing or using iron-on transfers to put their names and a team number on the back of each shirt. This then doubles up as a party favour that they can take home.
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Let’s play ball. Once everybody has arrived, it’s time for games. The kids will have a ball (get it?) shooting hoops. Play a team on team game or play different ball games. How many hoops can you shoot? Can you get the ball in the hoop backwards or blindfolded? Make the games as easy or difficult as you’d like, but keep it appropriate to the age of the children. The winning child could receive a sports-themed toy. A basketball hoop will provide outdoor fun year-round for the aspiring athlete but just be prepared to be asked to come play too. Stay hydrated. All that running around will be sure to make your guests a little tired and thirsty. Ensure you provide an area with some comfy pillows where they can sit to rehydrate. Handmade funky-looking, sporty individual bottles are incredibly easy to decorate and are sure to encourage your guests to want to stay hydrated, too. No time for individual bottles? Turn your water tap into a water break station by adding a sign and setting up some cups so your guests can help themselves to a refreshing cold drink. Snacks after the game. After such activity, it’s time to refuel the team. Platters with adorable mini hamburgers, deliciously sweet sports ball themed cupcakes, and various other nibbles will have everyone cheering for more. Alternatively, why not give your party an American twist and serve traditional stadium food, such as hot dogs, popcorn and lemonade? The Grand finale. Of course, the cake! The most anticipated part of any birthday party. Whether you choose to bake one yourself or have somebody make it for you; make it an impressive cake dedicated to your child’s favourite sport. Whether it is a golf ball, a tennis racket, a soccer ball or a cricket bat… the possibilities are endless. A sports themed party is sure to be a hit (did it again!) with your child and a party that the ‘team’ will be talking about for the rest of the season!
1. Soccer Party Decoration Ideas 2. Sports Cupcakes www.thecraftingchicks.com 3. S.R.Smith Pool Basketball and Volleyball Hoop - See in store for details - www.swimart.com.au 4. www.projetosinventivos.blogspot.com.au 5. Kip & Co - Pea Cushion Denim Clouds - RRP $89.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 6. Wooden Play Ball with Beads - RRP $21.90 - www.ellej.com.au 7. Water Break Station - www.ideas.evite.com 8. Custom Birthday Cake. The possibilities are endless with Cakes Annietime www.cakesannietime.com.au
Home
On TREND: GO BOLD WITH COLOUR AND IRIDESCENT ACCENTS With the Block’s Caro and Kingi
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Our bedroom is our private space, a place where we take refuge, where we recharge and restore our energy. It’s our place of sanctuary from what might at times be a somewhat crazy household. Is your sanctuary lifting your spirits or is it in need of a little inspiration? Go bold and change your room and your mood: New colour scheme. A fresh coat of paint on the walls can so easily and effectively change the atmosphere of your bedroom. Bold shades can be used to give the room a modern yet still relaxed feel. Enhance your new wall colour scheme with complimentary bed linen and dress your bed with bold patterned or colourful pillows for that pop of colour. Let the light In. The feel of your bedroom can change tremendously just by letting more light in. Swap your dark curtains for lighter ones or change to a sheer curtain if you require some privacy but still want that light to flow. Alternatively, replace the curtains and create a more streamlined look by installing blinds. Raw materials. Incorporating raw materials like a hemp rug or a rope basket into the room’s theme gives it a touch of nature and a relaxing feel. Add another layer of calmness to your room with a scented reed diffuser. Iridescent accents. Add a touch of glamour and glimmer to your space with some iridescent items. Golden geometric-shaped ornamental pieces, rose gold pendant bedside lamps, or a gorgeous decorative stained-glass feather can add wonderful points of interest. Transform your sanctuary with one or all of these bold on trend ideas and feel the difference it makes to your spirit.
1. Styling: NC Interiors. Picture: Cricket Studio. Artwork: Morgan Jamieson - www.realestate.com.au 2. Navy Rim Cotton Rope Basket - RRP $19.95 www.ellej.com.au 3. Kip & Co Cushions: Cotton Euro in Light Denim RRP $59.00 / Cotton Euro in Indigo RRP $55.00 / Velvet Pea in Dark Rose RRP $89.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 4. Armadilo & Co Hemp Rug - RRP $800.00 - www.korufurnitureandhomewares.com.au 5. Reed Diffuser in Cranberry Plum & Cassis - RRP $34.95 www.prettylittlesomething.com.au 6. Iridized Stained Glass Feather RRP $34.16 - Etsy Store: Moonlitstainedglass 7. www.lilyroseinteriors.com
DADDY DIARY In 1979 Malcolm Frasier was the Prime Minister of Australia. It was the year Mother Teresa won the Nobel Peace Prize, Jennifer Love Hewitt was born, and Mad Max was the biggest film in cinemas. 1979 was also the year Pink Floyd sang “We don’t need no education” from their hit single The Wall. A brilliant piece of music, horrible life advice. Education is one of the greatest gifts you can give a child. But sadly, with this precious gift also comes the dreaded first day of school. Apparently, I was pretty cool leading up to my first day of ‘big school’. I found the whole process exciting. It wasn’t until my mum said goodbye and told me she’d see me that afternoon that I screamed the roof off the prep classroom. I was five-years-old and the year was 1990. My teacher was a lovely, guitar-playing woman named Miss Evans who used to wear long dresses with flowers embroidered all over them. I now realise she was a hippy at heart. But to me, she was just the nice lady my mum would drop me to on her way to work. Nabiac Primary School was located right there on the street I grew up on, only about 200 metres from
our family home. The grounds had a huge Camphor laurel tree in the middle of the playground and an oldfashioned school bell in the assembly area that had to be rung by hand. Most of my memories of that place are really nice ones. It was an old-fashioned country school. A simple place. Fast forward to February 2017 and how things have changed. Firstly, someone slap me and wake me up. I’ve just passed out at the realisation that was 27 years ago. Then, secondly, can someone please explain how on god’s green earth did my own little girl grow up so quickly? Matilda (our one and only), turns four this year. Four years old. My wife and I could very well be the ones shedding a tear at our girl’s first day of school as early as next year. What a wildly scary thought. It turns out all those people who warned us about kids growing up quickly were 100 per cent right. To all the kids starting school this year, I wish you little legends nothing but the best of luck. Keep being the awesome little humans your family love and cherish so much. Keep growing, learning and exploring. Make new friends and even get into trouble once and a while. It’s all part of the experience. But most importantly love every second of it. Before too long the shoe will be on the other foot, and you’ll be preparing to send your own little one off. It happens too damn quickly. Just ask your parents. Cliffo Hit 103.1 Townsville
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