Peninsula Kids Spring 2026

ENINSULAKID P S SPRING 2026

LOVING FAMILY LIFE ON THE PENINSULA

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5988 6385 www.peninsulakids.com.au 3

Editor

Melissa McCullough

ed's letter Spring always arrives with a certain kind of optimism. The mornings feel lighter, gardens begin to stretch back into colour, and families start looking ahead to longer afternoons outdoors, weekend sport, school events and the busy, beautiful end-of-year season. In this issue, we wanted to capture that sense of fresh energy while offering practical, thoughtful support for the everyday questions parents are navigating right now.

Cover Photo

Charlise daniellebphotography.com.au Mt Martha

Editor & Publisher

We begin with the foundations: helping children move, play and grow with confidence. Our feature on choosing school shoes explains why fit matters so much, not just for comfort but for healthy walking, running and foot development. As sport and play ramp up, we also look at how to help children be good sports, especially when winning and losing feel bigger than the game itself.

Melissa McCullough melissa@mpnews.com.au

General Enquiries info@peninsulakids.com.au

Design

Wellbeing is another strong theme this spring. The science of napping may surprise you, with insights into how a well-timed rest can support energy, creativity and resilience for parents and children alike. We also explore online safer gaming, a topic many families are discussing as gaming continues to be an increasingly regular part of children’s social lives.

Sam Loverso sam@mpnews.com.au

Advertising

Molly Mitchell 0407 225 261 molly@mpnews.com.au

Digital

Dannielle Espagne

All material is copyright, and may not be reproduced without the express permission of Mornington Peninsula News Group, or the original copyright holder in the case of contributions. Copyright of contributed material rests with the contributor.

Advertising

Molly Mitchell

Education is front and centre too, from understanding why fairness does not always mean sameness, to recognising the distress behind school refusal or “school can’t”. For younger families, our pregnancy and baby pages include a helpful RSV protection checklist and practical advice before buying a baby carrier. And if you’re looking for a hands-on project, Art with Georgie’s paper weaving blanket activity brings a little spring creativity to the table.

Disclaimer: The authors and publisher do not assume any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause.

Whatever spring looks in your household—muddy shoes by the door, weekend sport on the calendar, naps wherever you can find them, or a baby on your hip, we hope you enjoy the spring edition of Peninsula Kids magazine.

This publication is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice of physicians. The reader should regularly consult a physician in matters relating to health and particularly with respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention.

Congratulations to our winter 2026 colouring in comp winners! Zoe, Noah and Madison have each won an Evergreen Pass annual membership thanks to Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens valued at $180 each! (ashcombemaze.com.au)

Peninsula Kids is produced quarterly. 15,000 copies distributed between Mordialloc and Portsea.

Look out for page 75 in the spring edition of the mag where we are giving away a Peninsula Kids prize pack full of fun and games for the whole family valued at $400!

Registered address: 1/15 Wallis Drv, Hastings VIC. 3915

PS: Don’t forget to move those clocks forward by an hour at 2am on Sunday, October 4! @MorningtonPeninsulaKids

..... and have a Happy Halloween!

@mornpenkids

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Winners! 2026 winter edition

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4 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

Zoe

Noah

Madison

Design

Sam Loverso

contents 20

8

16

10

spotlight 8 Choosing School Shoes and the Importance of Fit

16 How to Help Your Child Be a Good Sport

Well-fitting footwear can improve a child’s walking speed, distribute shock when running and encourage a heel to toe pattern of walking and running. These are all positives for encouraging children to comfortably engage in play and sporting activities, while protecting their foot growth and development.

For many children, games and sport are all about having fun with family, friends and teammates. But for some, winning and losing can feel a little more intense.

10 The Best Time to Nap (According to your Brain) Across the world, from Mediterranean towns to Tokyo offices, people use naps to boost energy, creativity and resilience. Science now shows that these old traditions are grounded in wisdom – the right nap, at the right time, is one of the most powerful performance tools we have.

20 Tips for Online Safer Gaming Australia's Interactive Games & Entertainment Association (IGEA) has reported on just how embedded gaming is in everyday life leaving parents to grapple with how much time their kids are spending online, who they’re playing online games with, and how to keep those experiences positive and age-appropriate.

www.peninsulakids.com.au 5

19

30

54

Recipe

Pregnancy & Baby

19 Lamb and Mint Sausage Rolls

54 RSV Protection Checklist: What Aussie Families Should Know

Local

58 Before You Buy a Baby Carrier

24 Local Author Spotlight – Coral Vass

Creative

26 Nothing for Teens on the Peninsula? Think Again!

Health 32 Ask the Experts

Education 34 Why ‘Fair’ Doesn’t Always Mean ‘the Same’ 36 Focus on Education 45 When School Feels Impossible: Understanding School Refusal or ‘School Can’t’

61

6 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS Special thanks go to the gorgeous and talented group of contributors who breathe life into every issue by sharing their best with us.

Cover

74 Paper Weaving Blanket by Art with Georgie DANIELLE BUSUTTIL

In every

www.daniellebphotography.com.au

14 Party Planning 28 Days to Celebrate 48 Book Reviews 50 Lil Bites 52 Things We Love 61 The Scoop 75 Colouring Page

www.artwithgeorgie.com

issue

30 From Ewww to Yes, Please!

45

Pg74

GEORGIE DOHERTY

Pg58

YVETTE O’DOWD

www.facebook.com/groups/ SouthernNaturalParentingNetwork

Where students

FLOURISH W

ith a strong reputation as the school of choice in the region, Dromana College remains committed to delivering high quality education built on the values of respect, responsibility, integrity and personal best. Dromana College offers a dynamic and inclusive learning environment where every student is supported to reach their full potential. Whether through academic achievement, the arts, sport or student leadership. Students are encouraged to peruse excellence and grow as confident, capable young adults. One of the great strengths of Dromana College is their beautiful and expansive campus. Nestled in the natural landscape of the Mornington Peninsula,

the school is surrounded by open spaces and native flora, creating a calm and inspiring backdrop for learning. The facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms, a fully equipped performing arts centre and an outstanding range of sports amenities such as an indoor stadium, multi-purpose courts, a fitness centre and extensive playing fields. In 2025, Dromana College students achieved outstanding results across VCE and VET pathways. Beyond the classroom, success was celebrated in the arts, national sporting competitions and numerous leadership initiatives. Looking ahead, enrolments remain strong and interest in their programs continue to grow.

DROMANA COLLEGE

PROUDLY CONTINUES TO SET THE STANDARD FOR

OUTSTANDING SECONDARY EDUCATION ON THE

MORNINGTON PENINSUL A

Dromana College is a school where students flourish, supported by dedicated staff and a connected school community.

Dromana College

110 Harrisons Road, Dromana

W dromana.sc@education.vic.gov.au P 5987 2805

FB @romana College

IG @Dromana.college

Choosing

By Dr Helen Banwell

School Shoes

W

ell-fitting footwear can improve a child’s walking speed, distribute shock when running and encourage a heel to toe pattern of walking and running. These are all positives for encouraging children to comfortably engage in play and sporting activities, while protecting their foot growth and development. Most schools require footwear to be worn within the school grounds, and some make it a part of their uniform policy, specifying types, brands, colours or styles. But when it comes to choosing and fitting school shoes for our children, it can sometimes be a source of angst for parents and carers. Many of us have long-held beliefs that shoes may impact foot growth and development, causing long term problems if they don’t fit well. Given one in four adults have ongoing chronic foot pain, these concerns may be valid. Let’s talk about footwear fit, why it can be a problem in children and when we need to worry about it most. Footwear fit is measured as length (from heel to toe), width (across the widest part of the forefoot), and the depth (the internal height from the sole to the top of the toe box). All three need to accommodate the foot. Many parents and carers would remember applying the ‘rule of thumb’ where a thumb width should be present between the longest toe and the end of the shoe to help judge footwear sizing. This is an effective measure for a good fit, and combined with another thumb test – rubbed across the widest part of the forefoot (over the ball of the foot) to make sure the shoe ‘uppers’ roll slightly – can demonstrate adequate depth and width. When shoes are too narrow or shallow for the child, toes and joints get squashed, and the pressure across these joints can cause pain and discomfort. Similarly, when a shoe is too short, the foot is restricted, affecting how their feet move. 8 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

and the importance of fit

Shoes one size too small will limit the normal motion of the child’s rearfoot (the bit behind their ankle), meaning it doesn’t absorb as much shock. They also stop the big toe bending enough, meaning children can’t propel themselves forward as easily, stopping them from moving freely. Such issues can potentially have long-term impact. Studies have shown greater angles of the toe joints in children wearing shoes that are too short which is associated with the development of bunions. We also see problems when shoes are excessively big. Shoes that are (two sizes or more) too long, wide or deep, can create friction of the skin, bruising under nails and cause children to scrunch their toes to help keep the shoes on. Shoes that are excessively long can also cause children (and adults) to trip. We have problems if shoes are too big and problems if shoes are too small; so what is ‘just right’. Luckily, children’s feet are more forgiving if shoes are a little big, than a little small, so buying your children’s school shoes one size too big (only) is perfectly acceptable. We also know that sizing up by one size does not change children’s foot function during walking, running or jumping activities, so giving them a little room to grow is perfectly fine. Unfortunately, due to growth spurts often catching parents and carers unawares, we are more likely to see children in shoes that are too small. As younger children have softer bones, and foot development and growth are more pronounced prior to six years of age, it is recommended that young children get regularly checked for footwear fit. If you don’t have access to qualified shoe fitters, the ‘rule of thumb’ method can help. Children aged eight years or older are generally more likely to be able to tell you about their shoe fit and how it feels.

Now that we’ve got fit covered, let’s talk about which school shoe is best. Perhaps not surprisingly, it is the one that fits best. But second to fit, it is the one that will best support the activity they are most likely to do in them. For some children the ‘best’ shoe might be the one that sits high across the top of their feet to protect them while they scramble and crawl through their school’s playground equipment. But as they get older, this might change to something with sturdy soles if they like to run long distances, or something lighter if they sprint everywhere. Stronger uppers can help toes if they like to kick balls around the school yard, whereas netball and basketball players might prefer something higher cut to support ankles. When it comes down to it, the best school shoes fit the child or teenager’s feet well, and encourages them to live their best lives. Of course, when in doubt, seek the help of professional shoe fitters or your local podiatrist. They are always there to help.

Dr Helen Banwell is Program Director for Podiatry with the School of Allied Health at Adelaide University. www.peninsulakids.com.au 9

z z z the best time to By Dr Jemma King

A

cross the world, from Mediterranean towns to Tokyo offices, people use naps to boost energy, creativity and resilience. Science now shows that these old traditions are grounded in wisdom – the right nap, at the right time, is one of the most powerful performance tools we have.

A strategically timed nap is a powerful tool that can turn a long painful ‘drag of a day’ into a day of efficiency, mental alertness and clarity, not to mention emotional stability. The science backs this up. Brain wave (EEG) data shows that even short naps can help learning by bolstering declarative memory (factual information) and procedural memory (skills and actions), can improve emotional regulation and, for certain types of learning and skilled performance, produce gains comparable to a full night’s sleep. Physiologically, naps decrease stress levels through reduced cortisol, the hormone that can give you that ‘tired but wired’ feeling in the evening. Regular napping habits have also shown cardiovascular benefits, including lower blood pressure and reduced heart stress. However, it’s important to nap properly.

10 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

zzzz ACCORDING TO YOUR BRAIN

what is a nap?

best timing for naps

A nap is generally defined as a sleep period shorter than 50 per cent of your main sleep duration and can range from a few minutes to several hours. Research shows that the most common nap length among adults is between 10 and 30 minutes.

Research from NASA found that pilots who took strategic naps showed improvement in task performance and improvement in alertness compared to those who did not nap. But timing is crucial for maximising nap effectiveness.

Studies indicate short naps lasting no more than 30 minutes can give you a cognitive boost and increase alertness for up to three hours provided the nap predominantly consists of light NREM (non-rapid eye movement) sleep, especially stages N1 and N2.

Human circadian rhythms naturally induce a decline in alertness during midafternoon, commonly around 2–3pm. Napping during this window aligns with your body’s innate ultradian rhythm and ensures you get optimal rejuvenation and alertness afterwards.

Longer naps, typically exceeding 30 minutes, enter deeper sleep stages, which encroach on the nap danger zone, with significant consequences.

optimal nap duration

sleep inertia Have you had a nap and woken up totally disorientated and feeling like someone has taken a baseball bat to your skull? This phenomenon is called ‘sleep inertia’ and is described as feelings of drowsiness, disorientation and a decline in motor dexterity. Sleep inertia happens because your brain doesn’t switch back to full speed the moment you wake up, especially if you’re pulled out of deep sleep. During deep sleep, brain activity slows right down, cerebral blood flow is reduced, particularly in the areas responsible for clear thinking, memory and decision making, and your body temperature drops. When you wake suddenly, those regions take time to ‘boot up’, which leaves you feeling groggy, slow and confused. The effect is much worse if you wake during deep sleep rather than the lighter sleep stages, because your brain is in a more shut-down state.

If you have time during the day, you can opt for a 90-minute nap incorporating the full sleep cycle. This way, you naturally progress through light sleep, deep sleep and REM (rapid eye movement), giving your brain and body the benefits of each stage without waking in the middle of deep sleep, which causes the sleep inertia. A full-cycle nap improves memory consolidation, boosts creativity and enhances problem solving and leaves you feeling more refreshed than fragmented short naps do. It’s particularly useful if you’re recovering from sleep debt, long work shifts, hangovers or preparing for a demanding task later in the day. However, if you oversleep beyond 90 minutes or nap too late in the day, it will interfere with your night-time sleep pattern, so it’s best to plan longer naps before mid-afternoon. continued next page...

www.peninsulakids.com.au 11

types of naps and their effects Not all naps are created equal. Some naps sharpen focus and boost mood almost instantly, whereas others leave you groggy or even disrupt your night-time sleep.

RESTORATIVE NAP (60–90 minute) Includes deeper sleep stages, such as slow-wave sleep and REM sleep, which are critical for creativity, problem solving and emotional balance. However, longer naps may cause sleep inertia. POWER NAP (10–20 minutes) Ideal for a quick boost in alertness and energy without entering deep sleep. These naps improve reaction time and focus without causing grogginess.

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POST-ALCOHOL NAP (approximately 90 minutes) As alcohol is toxic for your system, your body will prioritise slow-wave sleep over REM, which gets pushed out, leaving you with hangxiety; therefore, a post-alcohol nap needs to include the full 90-minute cycle that includes the REM stage to reset the memory filing system.

AVOIDANT NAP (variable) A psychological kill-switch nap that involves deliberately forcing oneself into sleep as a primary strategy to escape acute emotional or cognitive distress. This nap can be adaptive initially after a high-stress event, but can become maladaptive if the trauma is not addressed. The key is understanding which type of nap you’re taking, when to take it and what you want it to achieve.

COGNITIVE NAP (20–30 minutes) Enhances memory and learning by allowing the brain to cycle through light sleep stages, which support information processing.

Edited extract from Sleep First by Dr Jemma King (Wiley, $36.95), available at all leading retailers.

A Week of Wonder Join Mornington Peninsula Shire for Children's Week 24 October 1 November and discover a range of free and low-cost events where children and families can play, create, connect and have fun together.

mornpen.vic.gov.au/childrensweek

Artwork winner: Aurore (10 yrs) inspired this design with her artwork.

www.peninsulakids.com.au 13

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Fresh air, friendly animals, nature play and plenty of room to roam. Offering fun relaxed kids’ birthday parties with good food, and space for unstructured, unguided play in a setting that feels slower, calmer and more memorable. A: 150 Coolart Road, Tuerong FB: @bentonrise IG: @bentonrisefarm W: bentonrisefarm.com.au

Fun-filled, one-hour facilitated drumming, music, and games for kids’ celebrations. Parties start at $480 for up to 12 kids, including drums and colourful chairs. Largergroup options also available. M: 0481 389 444 W: hopscotchsensoryplay.com.au 14 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

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We Rock The Spectrum Somerville Fun, inclusive celebrations for kids of all ages and abilities. Exclusive venue hire, exciting play equipment, and a stress-free experience for everyone. Book online for an unforgettable day. A: Factory 3, 36 Guelph Street, Somerville P: 5977 6936 E: info@werockthespectrumsomerville.com.au IG: @wrtssomerville W: werockthespectrumsomerville.com.au

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www.peninsulakids.com.au 15

T

HOW

O

E H

UR CHILD O Y LP

be a good

sport

By Triple P

F

or many children, games and sport are all about having fun with family, friends and teammates. But for some, winning and losing can feel a little more intense.

When they win, they're on top of the world. Yet when they lose, they might cry, throw a tantrum, accuse others of cheating, make excuses or refuse to keep playing. 16 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. Many parents and carers wonder how to respond when a child struggles with losing or being a good sport. The good news is that good sportsmanship can be supported with some practical parenting strategies. By taking the focus off winning, using positive reinforcement, role modelling respectful behaviour and helping your child cope with big feelings, you can help bring the fun back into play time.

THE ART OF GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP FOR KIDS When children have fun playing well with others, it benefits their social and emotional development. It also helps them build confidence and develop positive relationships with family, friends and their community. Playing sports, whether at home, school or elsewhere, is also beneficial for children’s physical and mental health. Imagine your child playing by the rules of the game and reacting well – win, lose or draw – whether it’s a board game at home, a soccer game at school, a basketball game at the local park or organised team sports. What might that look like? Being a good sport can mean congratulating the winning player or team even when you feel sad or frustrated you lost, encouraging your teammates, and accepting the referee’s call even when you disagree. It can be losing with dignity and winning with humility. Or it can be feeling proud and enjoying victory without gloating or bragging, playing as a team, treating your opponents and everyone involved with respect, not putting others down, looking for the positives, and learning from the negatives.

HOW TO HELP SORE LOSERS AND BAD WINNERS Games, sports and competition can be a great source of pleasure and pride for many children and parents, but challenges often occur when the focus is on winning. This applies just as much to young children as adolescents. Research shows that a lot of children drop out of sports because it becomes too competitive, too serious and stops being fun. One study found 70 per cent of young athletes quit organised sport by age 13.1 When kids, parents, teachers and coaches focus just as much on the benefits of exercise, skills development, teamwork, friendship and enjoyment as they do on winning, it does kids – and often the scoreboard – a world of good. One way to help your child learn the valuable lesson that “it’s not whether you win or lose, but how you play the game” is by using positive reinforcement. This means praising your child in a way that feels natural to you when they’re playing well and being a good sport, which encourages them to do it more often. This might sound like: •

“ You’re following the rules so well – I love playing this game with you.”

•

“It’s great that you’re sharing the ball with your teammates.” continued next page... www.peninsulakids.com.au 17

When parents and carers role model good sportsmanship while playing games or watching sports, this also helps show kids what to say and do when they’re playing. This might involve: •

During a game with your child, saying “Wow, you’re a tough opponent. I love being challenged.”

•

After a game with your child, saying “good game” and shaking hands, whether you win or lose.

•

“It’s frustrating when others don’t follow the rules. What do you think would help?”

•

“That does sound unfair. Have you tried talking calmly to them about it?”

With a little love, a whole lot of patience and these positive parenting strategies up your sleeve, you can help your child develop the skills they need to be a good sport – now and in the future.

COPING WITH BIG FEELINGS DURING GAMES AND SPORTS Playing games and sports is exciting! We all love cheering on our favourite teams and the feeling of victory when we win. And we all know it feels rotten to lose. Winning feels great but losing doesn’t. We’re hardwired that way, and that’s okay. Helping your child understand there’s no shame in losing, that all feelings come and go, and that it’s okay to feel disappointed helps develop their emotional regulation skills. It also strengthens your relationship with your child and helps you grow closer, which supports their mental health and wellbeing.

When it comes to good sportsmanship, the idea is to help your child understand that it’s okay to cry or feel sad, disappointed, frustrated or even angry they lost – but it’s not okay to call people names, storm off, be aggressive or behave in ways that can hurt others and damage their relationships. Instead of dismissing, ignoring, criticising, or trying to “fix” their feelings, you could try supporting them with phrases like: •

“It’s okay to feel sad/frustrated you lost” (even more effective when paired with a loving hug or pat on the back).

•

“Losing can be frustrating. I’m really proud of how you played today.”

•

Role modelling how you cope with your own big feelings can also help:

•

“This game is making me feel frustrated. I’m going to take three deep breaths to calm down.”

•

“I feel a bit sad I lost. I might go for a walk. Wanna come?”

•

If your child struggles when others don’t play fair or don’t follow the rules, empathising and problem-solving with them when everyone is calm can help:

18 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

Triple P’s free online support helps families across Australia to raise resilient, happy children. For more evidence-based screen time strategies. This article was written by Triple P and first published on the Triple P - Positive Parenting Program's website, reprinted here with permission. Triple P retains copyright © in the article. [Refer to the triplep-parenting.net.au for further information about Triple P and the free programs and resources available. www.triplep-parenting.net.au

References 1. Joel S. Brenner, Council on Sports Medicine and Fitness; Sports Specialisation and Intensive Training in Young Athletes. Pediatrics September 2016; 138 (3): e20162148. 10.1542/peds.2016-2148. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2016-2148

Recipe

Cook:15-20 minutes | Serves: 4

Ingredients 500g lamb mince

LAMB & MINT

sausage rolls

2 garlic cloves, peeled 1 tsp ground cumin Bunch fresh mint, leaves only 8 filo pastry sheets 100g butter, melted 2 TB poppy seed

How to build 1 Preheat oven to 180°C (fan-forced) and line a baking tray with baking paper.

2 Crush garlic into a large mixing bowl. Add mince and cumin to bowl.

3 Finely chop mint leaves and set aside approx.

1 heaped tablespoon worth. Add remainder of chopped mint to bowl with mince mixture and mix well with your hands. Set aside.

4 Lay out a sheet of filo pastry onto your work

surface and brush lightly with some of the melted butter. Take another sheet of pastry and place on top. Repeat process until you have 4 sheets of pastry layered on top of each other.

5 Repeat with remaining filo pastry sheets, using 4 sheets each time. You should end up with 2 ‘stacks’ of pastry.

6 Cut each pastry stack into sixths and spoon some mixture in middle of each piece. Tuck in pastry ‘ends’ and then roll up along length of roll.

7 Brush some melted butter along edge to seal. Also brush top of roll with melted butter and sprinkle with poppy seeds.

8 Place a few centimetres apart on baking tray and when all ready, bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

www.peninsulakids.com.au 19

TIPS FOR ONLINE

Safer Gaming By Dr Elizabeth Milovidov

A

ustralia's Interactive Games & Entertainment Association (IGEA) has reported on just how embedded gaming is in everyday life, with four out of five (82%) of Australians playing video games. According to eSafety, this number jumps to 86% of 10 to 15 year olds, leaving parents to grapple with how much time their kids are spending online, who they’re playing online games with, and how to keep those experiences positive and age-appropriate.

20 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

Practical ways for families to revisit their approach to online safety START WITH PRIVACY AND SAFETY BASICS Before your child starts gaming, consider what privacy and safety settings might be right for them. Establishing simple steps can make a big difference in protecting their online experience: ● Choose a safe username – avoid real names, ages, or personal details that could identify your child. ● Set privacy settings that suit your family – discuss who they can interact with. ● While Roblox doesn’t have location sharing, some games and apps do - consider turning location sharing off where it is a feature. ● Familiarise yourself and your children with reporting tools – teach them how to block or report inappropriate behaviour.

One of the best ways to understand what your kids do online is to join them. Playing games alongside your child isn’t just fun; it shows you value what they love and creates natural opportunities to talk about safety, friendships, and the skills they’re building. Try asking upbeat, open-ended questions to keep the conversation positive, such as: ● “What do you love about this game?” ● “How did you discover it?” ● “What tips would help me get started?” ● "Who do you like playing with, and what makes them a good teammate?"

● Make safety a shared habit, not a one-time setup – revisit your privacy settings together every few months, as your child grows their digital confidence and the platforms they use may evolve too.

TALK THROUGH THEIR GAMING EXPERIENCES Online games are great fun, but they can also bring challenges like bullying or stress. Instead of reacting only when problems arise, start early; use everyday gaming moments to teach coping strategies and essential digital life skills.

GET IN THE GAME

If your child encounters bullying or stress online, work through solutions together:

Take the time to learn about the games your children love playing. The more you know about the games they play and the platforms they use, the better equipped you’ll be to guide safe and positive experiences.

 TAKE A BREAK WITH MINDFULNESS STRATEGIES LIKE BOX BREATHING OR A QUICK WALK

Take Roblox, for example. It’s one of the most popular gaming platforms among children and teens, offering thousands of user-created games. There is an online Safety Centre to help parents and carers understand what Roblox is, guides on how to use parental controls, and answers to common questions. And while many of the games are purely for fun, there are also lots which offer educational benefits that help kids develop new skills and explore their creativity. Roblox has a popular Learning Hub which has been visited over 40 million times, and will help you easily find great educational experiences.

S WITCH TO A DIFFERENT GAME OR PLAY WITH TRUSTED FRIENDS  REINFORCE THAT ASKING FOR HELP IS ALWAYS OKAY  ENCOURAGE THEM TO APPROACH A TRUSTED ADULT IF THEY FEEL UNSAFE Revisit what happened together once emotions have settled, reflecting calmly on a difficult moment helps your child build resilience and know how to handle it better next time. continued next page... www.peninsulakids.com.au 21

GET FAMILIAR WITH PARENTAL CONTROLS Managing your child’s gaming experience doesn’t necessarily require constant supervision; it all depends on what works for your family. Whilst I would always recommend you remain engaged with your child’s gaming activity, most platforms and devices offer parental tools to help you set limits on screen time, content, and interactions; so you can feel confident even if you’re not watching them over their shoulder. Parental Control on Roblox, for example, let parents and carers remotely manage settings like:

 SCREEN TIME LIMITS CONTENT MATURITY LEVELS  AND THE TYPE OF GAMES THEY CAN PLAY  WHO YOUR CHILD CAN CHAT WITH  HOW MUCH THEY CAN SPEND

22 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

The best time to set these controls is before your child starts gaming, but it’s never too late to adjust them. And remember, controls shouldn’t be fixed. As kids grow and become more savvy online, boundaries will evolve too. Staying engaged and having open conversations with your children help you decide what’s right for them. To make things easier for parents, Roblox now uses Facial Age Estimation to check a user’s age before enabling chat features, and assign players to an age-appropriate account type, including Roblox Kids for children aged 5 - 9 and Roblox Select for those aged 1015. This means children are grouped into age-appropriate cohorts designed so kids interact with peers of a similar age, giving parents and carers extra peace of mind.

Dr Elizabeth Milovidov is Roblox’s Global Senior Director, Global Head of Parental Advocacy.

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Local

Local Author Spotlight

C

oral Vass has been telling stories for as long as she can remember, and it’s a passion that has shaped both her life and her career. An award-winning children’s author with more than 30 published books to her name, Coral calls the Mornington Peninsula home; it is where she lives with her husband and their four children. Alongside writing, she is also an ambassador for Reading Out of Poverty, a cause that’s especially close to her heart. Coral is passionate about making sure every child has the chance to discover the joy of reading and also feel empowered to tell their own stories.

A big part of Coral’s work involves visiting schools around Australia, where she shares her love of books and storytelling with students of all ages She regularly runs writing workshops that encourage young people to think creatively and explore where ideas come from. “One of my favourite things is talking to students about how stories begin,” Coral says. “I love sharing the inspiration behind some of my books and showing students that their own ideas and experiences can become stories too.”

Coral Vass

The inspiration for her latest picture book, Skipping to Sammy’s Beat, came after Coral read a quote by philosopher Henry David Thoreau: “If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer.”

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The quote stayed with her and sparked the idea for a story about individuality, self-acceptance, and celebrating what makes each of us unique. “I wanted to write a story which reminded children that it’s okay to be different,” Coral explains. “I think it’s so important for kids to feel comfortable being themselves, and accepting others for who they are too.” She says the message still connects strongly with the well-loved words of Dr. Seuss: “Today you are you. That is truer than true. There is no one alive that is you-er than you.” Coral’s understanding of feeling “different” comes from her own childhood experiences. Although she was born in Sydney, she spent many of her early years living in Bangladesh. As a blonde-haired, fair-skinned child growing up among her Bengali friends, she was very aware of standing out. But when her family later moved back to Australia, she found herself feeling different all over again; this time because of her overseas experiences and the challenge of fitting into a new school environment.

Coral believes today’s children are feeling the pressure to 'fit in' earlier than ever before. Between friendship groups, online trends, school environments, and social media, many young people struggle to balance being themselves with the fear of being left out or judged. “I think the pressure to belong can sometimes become stronger than the message to embrace what makes you different,” she says. “That’s why stories that encourage individuality are so important.” Through Skipping to Sammy’s Beat, Coral hopes children will feel encouraged to move through life at their own pace, trust who they are, and not be afraid to shine in their own unique way. The book opens up gentle but important conversations about self-belief, confidence, and following your own path rather than trying to keep up with everyone else. “Learning to believe in yourself and run your own race is all part of growing up,” Coral says. Over the years, Coral has continued to stay true to herself and her writing, always following her own rhythm, and encouraging young readers to do the same.

Now, as a mother herself, Coral has seen firsthand how much pressure children can face as they grow up. Living and raising her family on the Mornington Peninsula has given her a close view of how children navigate friendships, school life, social expectations and, increasingly, the influence of social media. “Children naturally experience the world with so much openness and joy,” she says. “But, as they get older, they often become more aware of how others see them. They start comparing themselves to people around them, and that can lead to self-doubt.”

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NOTHING FOR TEENS ON THE PENINSULA?

By Amanda Bennets

A

sk most parents on the Mornington Peninsula what the tricky part of a family day out is, and it's rarely finding something to do. The problem lies with finding something to do that an eightyear-old, an eleven-year-old and a sixteen-year-old will all agree to get in the car for. Take an ordinary peninsula family: the eightyear-old wants anything with an animal, a maze or a jumping castle in it. The eleven-year-old wants to be doing something, ideally something a bit competitive, and is deeply unimpressed by anything that sounds like it’s "for little kids." And the sixteen-year-old wants to be somewhere that doesn't feel like a family holiday brochure. (Actually, they would probably prefer to be somewhere withOUT the family but hang on a sec… help is on the way!) Getting all three to agree on a destination can feel harder than the drive there.

26 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

The good news, and it's a genuine surprise to a lot of local parents, is that the peninsula has quietly built up a run of places that don't split by age in the way people assume. There's plenty written up already about what's great for little ones, and plenty for the grown-ups (the wineries and providores aren't going anywhere), but what gets missed is the middle: the stuff that an eleven-year-old and a sixteen-year-old will both actually want to do, often standing right next to their parents doing it too. Boneo Discovery Park, out past Rosebud, is a good example of what that looks like in practice. Most of the park reads as classic family fare: wetlands boardwalks, a hedge maze, a dinosaur trail, the kind of thing the eight-year-old is already sold on. But tucked into the same one ticket is its NEW Galactic Skirmish, an outdoor laser combat field where teams battle it out across a purpose-built battlefield, and Mission Mini Golf, an 18-hole course that turns into a genuine sibling rivalry the second someone is three putts behind. Neither of those cares how old you are.

The sixteen-year-old who spent the car trip insisting this was going to be lame is, by all reports, the hardest one to get off the Skirmish field at the end of the session. And when it's mini golf, it's often the parents who end up most competitive of all. (No mercy, kids! It is ON.) That same idea shows up elsewhere on the peninsula once you start looking for it. Enchanted Adventure Garden at Arthurs Seat pairs a lavender-and-hedge maze with tree surfing and zip lines through the tree canopy, so the eleven-year-old gets the maze and the teenager gets something that actually gets the heart rate up. A short walk (don’t freak out kids... it’s just a figure of speech, you’ll have to drive) from there, Peninsula Hot Springs runs a joint Maze and Bathe package with Enchanted Adventure, which quietly solves the exact problem a lot of families have: the teenager who wants to feel like this wasn't a kids' outing gets to finish the day somewhere that feels aimed squarely at them: hot pools, a proper hangout, not a play area. Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Gardens works on the same logic as Boneo's own maze; a puzzle that doesn't care whether you're eight or sixteen, just whether you can find your way out first. Add in the Arthurs Seat Eagle gondola for the view-chasers and a Searoad Ferries crossing for something that feels like an actual outing rather than an activity, and the makings of a full day that nobody in the car complained about comes together. So, the next time someone says there's nothing for teenagers to do on the peninsula tell them there is actually plenty. The peninsula has more to offer for a wide range of ages than it gets credit for. Nobody has to compromise (except for the kid who is forced to sit in the middle in the car), and nobody has to sit this one out.

SPECIALIST ORTHODONTICS M O U N T

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13 SEPT

Guacamole Day Usually eaten as a side-dish, guacamole has been a part of traditional Mexican cuisine since the time of the Aztecs. SEPT Today, the dip, whose name comes from an Aztec dialect Nahuatl and means guacamole sauce, is a popular side-dish, salad addition and party dip all around the world. Celebrate by making a sweet guacamole. In Sri Lanka, mashed avocado is mixed with milk and sugar or syrup and eaten as a dessert. Did you know…that avocados are also known as alligator pear owing to the texture of its skin?

16

28 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

Hug Your Hound Day Created by canine behaviourist Ami Moore, the holiday encourages dog parents and owners to focus on their dogs' health, safety and happiness.The unofficial holiday celebrates the special bond between dogs and their owners. Celebrate by taking your hound for a long walk or to the dog park to say hello to their friends, giving them their favourite treats, and of course, give them a big hug! Did you know…that pigs and dogs were the earliest domesticated animals in human history?

2OC0T International Sloth Day

International Sloth Day was created in 2010 by the AIUNAU Foundation, a non-profit conservation and wildlife organization based in Colombia. The unofficial holiday raises awareness about the life cycle and natural habitat of the Sloth. The day also calls on people to learn more about these native South and Central American animals. Celebrate by learning more about the habitat, physiology and habits of the sloth. Did you know…that even though sloths mostly eat leaves, their stomachs can't easily digest them? Sloths have a stomach with four compartments and it takes them almost a month to digest one meal.

EB TO CEL

RATE

6

22

NOV

Saxophone Day The day honors saxophonists and commemorates the birth anniversary of its inventor Adolphe Sax. Born in Belgium in 1814, Sax was an instrument maker and musician who designed and introduced the Saxophone in 1840. Celebrate by attending a chamber music, jazz or symphony orchestra concert or if you have always wanted to learn how to play the Saxophone, today is the day to get started! Did you know…that Adolphe Sax was also responsible for inventing the Saxhorn, Saxotromba, and the Saxtuba?

Go For a Ride Day

NOV

While the origins of this made-up holiday are unknown, we can safely assume that it encourages people to get out of the house and take a ride. Go For a Ride Day is the perfect excuse to explore parts of your neighbourhood and town that you have never seen before or to take a long, aimless road trip across the state or country. Celebrate by gathering your friends and family members and taking a ride! Did you know…that the world's first fastest street legal car reached a top speed of 19 kilometres per hour? The Benz Velo was first introduced to the market in 1894. Source: www.timeanddate.com

www.peninsulakids.com.au 29

Health

By Amanda Mills

D

oes your child, like many others (including plenty of adults!), refuse to eat broccoli or other vegetables? You’re not alone. Understanding why this happens may help guide how to approach it, so that mealtimes can result in wins rather than battles. After all, when you’re a parent, every win counts! WHY CAN BROCCOLI CAN BE TRICKY? Simply put, broccoli may genuinely taste worse to them than it does to you. 30 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

WHAT MAY HELP OVER TIME There’s no magic trick here. Many parents and carers try hiding vegetables in foods like pasta sauces, and while this can help increase vegetable intake in the short term, it may not always lead children to learn to accept those foods in their usual form. A balanced approach may be to use this when needed, while continuing to offer vegetables in visible forms so children can become familiar with them over time.

TAKE THE PRESSURE OFF A low-pressure environment may support a more positive relationship with food. The 'Division of Responsibility' in feeding suggests adults decide what, when and where food is offered, while children decide whether and how much they eat. This may help children feel more comfortable exploring new foods at their own pace. Keep offering (even when it ends up on the floor!) Repeated exposure is one of the most supported ways to build acceptance. Some children may need many (sometimes 10 or more) opportunities before they begin to accept a new food. It all counts - touching, licking, or even just having it on the plate.

TRY A “TINY TASTE MISSION” Instead of a big serve, offer a very small piece, perhaps one small floret, and frame it as a no-pressure “taste mission”. Small amounts might help to reduce pressure while still supporting repeated exposure over time.

Dr Peter Scott and Associates are specialist orthodontists offering orthodontic care for children, teens and adults alike in Mornington Peninsula, Bayside, Casey and beyond. Dr Peter Scott is also a consultant at the Royal Children’s Hospital.

TURN THEM INTO A “BROCCOLI SCIENTIST” Before expecting them to eat it, let them explore it. Can they smell it? Snap the stalk? Pull apart the florets? Some children may be more open to tasting foods after interacting with them through play and sensory exploration.

MIX UP HOW IT’S SERVED Texture, smell and appearance all matter. You could try broccoli steamed (soft), roasted (firmer and slightly crisp), or served with a dip such as hummus or yoghurt-based options. Different approaches may work for different children.

CREATE A “DIP DETECTIVE” MOMENT Let your child choose a dip and experiment: “Which one makes it taste best?” Pairing a less familiar food with a familiar flavour may help some children become more accepting over time.

PUT THEM IN CHARGE (JUST A LITTLE!) Getting children involved e.g., washing, stirring, or choosing how to cook may increase their interest in trying the final result. Even small choices like “Should we make it crunchy or soft tonight?” can help build ownership.Just remember every win counts through baby steps.

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DISCLAIMER

Braces and Aligners

Every child is different. Some may love these playful approaches, while others may need more time and many, many exposures. And that’s ok! If you have concerns about your child’s eating, growth or development, consider seeking advice from your healthcare professional. In the meantime, it may help to focus less on getting them to eat broccoli today, and more on helping them feel comfortable enough to try it one day.

Amanda Mills is a Nutrition & Careline Associate at the a2 Milk Company Australia.

13 Beach St Frankston

Ph: 9783 4511 drpeterscott.com.au @drpeterscottorthodontist

www.peninsulakids.com.au 31

ask the

experts!

What is a hernia?

What is the cervical screening test?

A hernia is when tissues or organs bulge through a weak point in the surrounding muscle or tissue wall.

The cervical screening test looks for signs of the human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus can lead to cell changes in your cervix and causes almost all cervical cancers.

Many hernias occur in the abdomen (tummy) — the area between your chest and pelvis. If you have an abdominal hernia, tissue from inside your abdomen (such as fatty tissue or part of your bowel) can move into a space where it doesn’t normally sit. The main symptom of many hernias is a bulge that you notice more when exercising, straining, coughing or heavy lifting. Hernias are due to a weakness in your abdominal wall. This weakness may be there from birth, happen after abdominal surgery or develop over time and are more likely to develop when you have increased pressure in your abdomen which can stem from being overweight or obese, pregnancy, having a chronic cough, and constipation and straining on the toilet. Other risk factors for some types of hernias include older age and smoking.

What is astigmatism? Astigmatism is a common eye condition where the cornea or lens in your eye is not perfectly curved. Instead of being shaped like a soccer ball, it is curved like a rugby ball. This means that light entering the eye focuses at 2 places (rather than one) on the retina. This can make your vision mildly or severely blurry. Your ability to see both close up (long-sightedness) and far away (shortsightedness) are affected. There are 2 types of astigmatism: • regular —the cornea is curved more in one directio (e.g. vertically) than the other (e.g. horizontally) • irregular —the curvature of the cornea is uneven across the surface of the eye

Cervical screening tests help protect people against cervical cancer. Testing is recommended once every 5 years.

What is human papillomavirus (HPV)? Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that spreads through skin-to-skin or sexual contact. There are different types of HPV that can affect different parts of your body. In most people, HPV does not cause symptoms and the virus may go away on its own. Some types of HPV are called low-risk and may cause genital warts. Other types are called high-risk. If these are not treated, they may lead to some types of cancer. HPV can affect anyone who is sexually active, even if they have only had sexual contact once. Most people who are or have been sexually active will have HPV at some time in their lives.

What is morning sickness? Morning sickness is a feeling of nausea or vomiting (being sick) during pregnancy. Despite its name, morning sickness can happen at any time of the day or night. You are more likely to have morning sickness between weeks 6 and 14 of pregnancy. This is during your first trimester. However, it can last up to weeks 14 to 20. For many women, the feelings of sickness will be over by the second trimester. Most pregnant women have morning sickness at some point.

Hyperemesis gravidarum When morning sickness is very severe, it is called hyperemesis gravidarum. This makes it hard for you to eat and drink enough. Untreated, it can lead to weight loss and dehydration.

Your healthcare professional can treat your astigmatism with glasses or contact lenses. Most people have mild astigmatism, and this treatment is enough.

Very severe morning sickness during pregnancy can be difficult. It can impact how well you live. You may need to go to the hospital for treatment. Some people become depressed or anxious.

See your optometrist if you suspect your child is having any issues with their sight, or before starting school, to identify any problems early for better vision outcomes.

If you are having are hard time dealing with hyperemesis gravidarum, ask your midwife, doctor or maternity care provider for help.

healthdirect.gov.au 32 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

What are orthodontic elastics? Do I need them if I get braces? Elastics are small rubber bands that are worn during orthodontic treatment to provide the best possible bite. They come in a variety of strengths and sizes and help move specific teeth to coordinate the upper and lower teeth. The Orthodontist will determine when the elastics are commenced during treatment, the frequency of wear (full time or night only) and their specific position in the mouth. They are generally removed for eating and tooth brushing.

Discover the transformative power of a confident smile with Peninsula Orthodontics.

Elastics can be used to assist with: 1. Bite correction- help guide the teeth and jaw into position 2. Space closure- help encourage the closure of gaps between the teeth 3. Moving specific teeth faster and more efficiently - help encourage alignment The direction and strength of the elastics will be customised to individual orthodontic needs. Patients are required to replace and remove their elastics at home as prescribed by their Orthodontist. It is important that you contact your clinic if you are unsure where to wear your elastics, or if you need more elastic bands. Orthodontic treatment will correct the alignment of the teeth, however, to ensure the best functional bite it is important that elastics are worn consistently throughout treatment. Most patients who commence orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners will need elastics at some point during their treatment. It is very important to wear them as prescribed by your Orthodontist to ensure the best results from your orthodontic treatment.

Peninsula Orthodontics is your trusted family specialist orthodontist on the Mornington Peninsula with years of experience creating beautiful, confident smiles. No referral required.

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Peninsulaortho.com.au www.peninsulakids.com.au 33

Education

WHY

‘fair’

By Dr Tom Porta

I

f you’ve spent any time around school pick-up zones, birthday parties, or parent group chats, you may have heard a version of this concern: “Why does that child get extra time?” or “Why does that student receive different work from my child? Is that really fair?”

These questions are common and completely understandable. Many parents are drawing on their own schooling experiences, where fairness usually meant everyone doing the same work, in the same way, at the same time. If you worked hard, you succeeded. If you didn’t, you tried harder. It seemed simple, and it was just the reality. But classrooms have changed. And so has our understanding of what fairness really looks like. Today, fairness does not mean giving every child the same thing. It means giving each child what they need to learn well. This idea may feel confronting at first because it might sound like some children are getting ‘more’. But in reality, it often means some children are getting what others already have access to automatically. Think about adults for a moment. If a group of people was asked to read a document, some might need reading glasses. Others might prefer to listen. Some would work quickly, while others would need more time. Providing everyone with the same font size and the same deadline would not be fair, as it would ignore real differences.

CLASSROOMS ARE NO DIFFERENT. Children arrive at school with different strengths, learning speeds, language backgrounds, emotional needs, and life experiences. Some students have had years of bedtime stories and rich conversations. Others have navigated trauma, illness, disability, or disrupted schooling. Some children can sit still and concentrate easily. Others are working twice as hard just to manage attention, anxiety, or sensory overload. Treating all of these students identically does not level the playing field. In many cases, it makes learning harder for those who already face barriers.

THIS IS WHERE INCLUSIVE AND EQUITABLE TEACHING COMES IN. In practical terms, this might mean some students are given extra time to complete assessments. Others might be offered visual supports, scaffolded instructions, or opportunities to demonstrate their learning in different ways. Teachers may use flexible grouping, sometimes 34 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

based on skill and knowledge level and other times based on interest. A student might be given a reading text with more spacing, a glossary, or audio support. Another student might be offered extension tasks that push their thinking further. To parents, this can sometimes look like special treatment. But, really, it is about removing unnecessary obstacles so students can show what they know and what they can do. It is also about ensuring that students who need support don’t have to fail first in order to ‘qualify’ for help.

A COMMON CONCERN IS WHETHER THIS APPROACH LOWERS STANDARDS. THE ANSWER IS NO. Inclusive classrooms are not about lowering expectations. Curriculum requirements still apply, and learning goals remain clear. What changes is the pathway students take to reach those goals. A child might learn the same concept through different materials, different groupings, or a different pace. The overall objective and aim is still progress and mastery, just with fewer barriers in the way. In fact, when teaching is responsive and flexible, all students often benefit, including high achievers. Clear instruction, strong routines, and well-designed learning tasks create better learning conditions for everyone. Many strategies that support students with a disability or a learning difficulty also help students who are tired, stressed, new to English, or simply having an off day. Equity is not about giving some children an advantage. It is about ensuring differences do not become disadvantages. This matters now more than ever. Today’s classrooms are more diverse than at any point in the past. Teachers are balancing packed curriculums, increasing wellbeing needs, and a wide range of learner profiles, all within the same room. Parents are also under pressure, and it’s easy to interpret anything potentially ‘uneven’ as unfair. If schools insisted on rigid sameness, many students would simply fall behind. Inclusive approaches are not about being undemanding. They are about being realistic, evidence-based, and responsible. They also teach something important; in the real world, people don’t all receive the same supports, they receive the supports they need to participate.

DOESN’T ALWAYS MEAN

‘the same’

IN SCHOOL CLASSROOMS

For parents who are unsure or concerned, the most helpful step is often to have a calm conversation with the classroom teacher. Asking about learning goals, classroom supports, and how best to help at home can provide clarity and reassurance. Useful questions might include: "What is my child working towards right now?" "How do you support different learners in the class?" "What should I focus on at home in terms of skills, confidence, routines, or something else?" These questions keep the conversation constructive and centred on learning, not comparison. Most teachers are thoughtful and intentional in how they support students. Adjustments are not made lightly. They are based on professional judgement and a deep understanding of the children in front of them.

Fairness in education has evolved. It no longer means treating every child the same. It means treating every child with care, dignity, and purpose. When we shift from sameness to equity, we send a powerful message to young people: you belong here, and your learning matters.

Dr Tom Porta is an education expert with the School of Education at Adelaide University.

www.peninsulakids.com.au 35 35 www.peninsulakids.com.au

education

Focus on

S P R I N G

2 0 2 6

ROOM TO EXPLORE. STRONG FOUNDATIONS TO THRIVE.

G

ive your child a bright beginning at St Macartan’s Primary School. The school’s expansive natural grounds, vibrant play spaces and thriving gardens invite children to explore, discover and learn beyond the classroom. Hands-on learning comes to life through St Macartan's award-winning Sustainability Centre, Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program, outdoor learning and caring for animals. Inside calm, purposeful classrooms, explicit instruction in English and Mathematics, including evidence-based phonics program, builds strong foundations in reading and numeracy. This proven approach gives students the clarity, confidence and skills to succeed. Physical Education, Italian, Performing Arts, Visual Arts, STEM and Robotics all spark curiosity and creativity. Camps, excursions, lunchtime clubs, buddy and leadership programs provide even more opportunities for every child to discover their strengths.

ST MACARTAN'S PARISH PRIMARY SCHOOL A 97 BUNGOWER ROAD, MORNINGTON P 5979 9200 W SMMORNINGTON.CATHOLIC.EDU.AU 36 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

Dedicated Junior, Middle and Senior learning areas support students at every stage. With wellbeing at the heart of school life, each child is known, encouraged and celebrated. Grounded in Catholic faith, St Macartan's community nurtures compassion, respect and kindness through prayer, masses, liturgies and sacramental programs. Strong partnerships with families create a genuine sense of connection and belonging. Convenient onsite OSHC supports busy families. START THEIR STORY AT ST MACARTAN’S PRIMARY SCHOOL. Prep enrolments are especially welcome, with enquiries invited for all year levels. Book a tour, enrol online or contact the school to experience the St Macartan's community for yourself. ENROLMENTS OPEN

ST MACARTAN’S

PARISH PRIMARY SCHOOL

ENROLMENTS

NOW OPEN

Please call 5979 9200 To book a tour or enrol, please visit

www.smmornington.catholic.edu.au

SCAN TO REGIST ER YOUR S T M ACARTAN’S SCHOO L TOUR

www.peninsulakids.com.au 37

Childcare from 6 weeks to school age

education

Focus on

S P R I N G

2 0 2 6

Little Grasshoppers Early Learning Centre

MORE THAN 35 YEARS OF GROWING WITH MORNINGTON PENINSULA FAMILIES For more than 35 years, Little Grasshoppers Early Learning Centres has been part of the Mornington Peninsula community, caring for generations of local children and supporting families through some of the most important years of their lives.

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Unlike large national childcare providers, Little Grasshoppers is locally owned and family operated, with all five centres located right here on the Mornington Peninsula. It is this genuine connection to the local community that continues to shape the way the team approaches early learning and care.

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With centres in Mornington, Mount Eliza, Moorooduc and Somerville, Little Grasshoppers provides childcare from six weeks through to school age, giving children the opportunity to grow, learn and build lasting relationships within a familiar and nurturing environment.

Sp W rin M g vie en wo u n e

Spring Enrolments Now Open Five Little Grasshoppers locations across the Mornington Peninsula

Each centre has a dedicated dining space. Fresh meals prepared every day. Healthy • Nutricious • Delicious Fresh new Spring Menu is here, view online Locally owned and operated for over 35 years

At the heart of the Little Grasshoppers philosophy is the belief that children learn best when they feel safe, supported and inspired to explore. Learning through play is an important part of each day, with thoughtfully designed experiences encouraging curiosity, creativity, confidence and independence. The centres also offer government approved kindergarten programs helping children develop the social, emotional and learning skills they need as they prepare for their transition to school. From the educators who welcome families each morning to the fresh meals prepared for children throughout the day, the focus remains on creating environments where children feel secure, connected and excited to learn. Strong relationships with families are equally important. Trust, communication and integrity have been central to Little Grasshoppers for more than three decades, with educators working closely with parents to understand each individual child and support their development. As spring arrives across the Mornington Peninsula, it is a wonderful reminder of the opportunities children have to explore, discover and grow. For Little Grasshoppers, that has always been what early childhood is about: local care for local children, supporting Mornington Peninsula families from their baby’s first weeks through to their first day of school.

EL

EBRATIN

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Book your tour today, contact us: 📞📞📞📞📞📞📞📞 📞📞📞📞📞 📞📞📞📞📞 📞8 08 Email: info@littlegrasshoppers.com.au

LITTLE GRASSHOPPERS EARLY LEARNING CENTRES A 5 LOCATIONS ACROSS THE PENINSULA P 5978 0808 W LITTLEGRASSHOPPERS.COM.AU

38 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

education

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2 0 2 6

PENINSULA GRAMMAR – WHERE WONDER LEADS TO LEARNING

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ome of the most powerful learning happens when children are free to explore, question and discover. A puddle becomes a scientific investigation. A leaf inspires a story. A walk outdoors opens up new possibilities.

At Peninsula Grammar, curiosity is nurtured through play-based learning that encourages children to explore, question and make connections with the world around them. Across their Kindergarten and Prep programs, experiences are designed to capture children's natural sense of wonder and turn it into meaningful learning. One of the most-loved experiences is the Gumboot Walk. Children pull on their boots and head outdoors to explore expansive 80-acre campus. They splash through puddles, search for insects, collect natural treasures and observe the changing seasons. "Children learn best when they are genuinely engaged in what they are discovering," says Head of Junior School, Louise Nicholls Easley. "Our Gumboot Walks encourage children to slow down, notice the world around them and ask questions that lead to deeper learning." These outdoor experiences help children build confidence, language and problem-solving skills while developing a strong connection to the natural environment. That same spirit of exploration continues in the classroom through hands-on experiences, including visits to the Makerspace and Science Lab, where children investigate, experiment and test their ideas. "As educators, we want children to see themselves as capable learners," Louise says. "When children have the freedom to explore and investigate, they build the confidence and curiosity that support learning." For 2027 and 2028 enrolments, visit www.peninsulagrammar.vic.edu.au.

PENINSULA GRAMMAR A 20 WOORALLA DRIVE, MOUNT ELIZA P 9788 7777 W PENINSULAGRAMMAR.VIC.EDU.AU www.peninsulakids.com.au 39

education

Focus on

S P R I N G

2 0 2 6

FLOURISHING IN FAITH, LIFE & LEARNING AT ST THOMAS MORE

S

t Thomas More Primary School in Mount Eliza offers a high-quality, holistic Catholic education where every child is known, valued and supported to flourish. Set on an expansive campus within a beautiful bushland environment on the Mornington Peninsula, the school provides a uniquely engaging setting where children can learn, grow and discover their individual strengths.

With approximately 290 students, St Thomas More enjoys the many benefits of a smaller, close-knit school community. Strong partnerships between staff, students, families and parish help create a genuine sense of connection and belonging, with the school recognising the important role a supportive community plays in helping children thrive emotionally, academically, physically, socially and spiritually. At the heart of St Thomas More is a welcoming and inclusive environment where student wellbeing and Gospel values guide daily life. Every child is recognised, respected and appreciated for who they are, while dedicated staff work to nurture resilience, confidence and a positive sense of self. As a Catholic school, faith, beliefs and traditions are central to the St Thomas More community. Through the explicit teaching of values including respect, integrity, service and empathy, students are encouraged to grow in faith, love and knowledge. Social justice initiatives also provide opportunities for students to extend compassion to those in need and develop a strong sense of

ST THOMAS MORE PRIMARY SCHOOL A 313 CANADIAN BAY ROAD, MOUNT ELIZA P 9787 7788 W STMMTLZA.CATHOLIC.EDU.AU 40 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

responsibility to the wider community. The school’s dedicated staff are committed to delivering personalised, high-quality learning experiences that support every student to reach their full potential. Teachers work collaboratively, using contemporary educational research and student data to plan engaging learning experiences tailored to individual needs. Learning is further enriched through a broad range of specialist programs, including Physical Education, Performing Arts, Visual Arts, STEM and Japanese. These opportunities allow students to explore their interests, develop new skills and discover their strengths, whether shining on stage, participating in competitive sport or engaging with science, technology and the arts. Leadership opportunities are available across all year levels, empowering students to contribute meaningfully to both the school and wider community. Through these experiences, students are encouraged to question, reflect, take considered risks and think critically. At St Thomas More, education is about more than academic achievement. It is a holistic journey that helps shape character, resilience and adaptability while developing confident, independent and lifelong learners who are empowered to make a positive difference in the world. Families considering St Thomas More Primary School are invited to book a school tour and experience first-hand what makes the Mount Eliza school such a wonderful place for children to learn, play and flourish.

FLOURISHING IN FAITH, LIFE & LEARNING

BOOK A TOUR TODAY!

Every child is known and valued Leading in The Science of Learning approach Set amongst bushland Highly engaging and respectful classroom environment High expectations where every child is supported to flourish

SCHOOL TOURS NOW AVAILABLE Book in via our school website www.stmmtlza.catholic.edu.au or call the school office on 9787 7788 313 Canadian Bay Road, Mt Eliza

education

Focus on

S P R I N G

2 0 2 6

BAYSIDE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE UNITY AND MATURITY IN CHRIST

F

or more than 40 years, Bayside Christian College has partnered with parents to provide a distinctly Christian education, grounded in strong values and a vision for excellence. Established by a group of families with a shared purpose, robust parent partnerships remain central to who they are. This enduring sense of shared vision continues to shape their identity today.

At Bayside, student wellbeing is a priority. They are committed to nurturing a caring community where students experience safety, belonging and connection. They believe positive relationships are essential for effective learning, and their dedicated staff work closely with families to support each student’s growth within a purposeful and supportive environment. In addition to this, the dedicated teachers and support staff mentor students in their learning and development. A distinctive strength of Bayside Christian College is their investment in both VCE and Vocational Education and Career pathways. The College offers a strong breadth of VCE subjects to support mathematics, science, physical education, health, English, literature, humanities and visual arts.

BAYSIDE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE

A 120-128 ROBINSONS ROAD, LANGWARRIN SOUTH P 5971 6700 W BAYSIDECC.VIC.EDU.AU 42 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

While academic achievement is important, they are equally committed to preparing students for life beyond school. Situated on more than 80 acres, the Trade Skills Centre provides opportunities in agriculture, horticulture and hospitality, offering rich, hands‑on learning experiences that prepare students for service in their communities and beyond, while reflecting their commitment to caring for the environment and one another. Health, sport and the arts also play an important role in College life. Bayside offers excellent facilities, strong participation in interschool sport, and a vibrant annual musical production that celebrates creativity, teamwork and commitment. Bayside Christian College is about to enter an exciting new season. Over the last six months, the College has undertaken an extensive process to identify areas of strength as well as areas for growth and they are about to embark on a new strategic plan which will strengthen their community, build their teaching and learning capacity and improve their systems and structures. Bayside Christian College invite you to visit and experience the faith, warmth and excellence that define the school.

Early Learning - Year 12

Book a Tour

Enrolling now for 2028 For more than 40 years, Bayside Christian College has provided a distinctly Christian education grounded in strong values, academic excellence and a lived expression of faith. We invite you to book a tour and discover our: • Early Learning Centre • Primary School

• Secondary School • Trade Skills Centre

Limited places still available for 2027.

(03) 5971 6700 registrar@baysidecc.vic.edu.au 120-128 Robinsons Road Langwarrin South VIC 3911

baysidecc.vic.edu.au www.peninsulakids.com.au 43

education

Focus on

S P R I N G

2 0 2 6

WHERE LITTLE LEARNERS GROW AND THRIVE

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lpina Street Early Learning Centre is a family-owned service offering children a nurturing place to learn, play and grow. Set within a large, natural environment adjoining a reserve, the centre provides bright, spacious indoor and outdoor spaces designed to inspire exploration, creativity and discovery.

WE WANT YOU! NOW

ENROLLING FOR 2027!

Catering for children from six weeks to six years, Alpina Street offers educationally enriched programs that support learning through play. A longstanding team of caring, dedicated and qualified educators and teachers nurture each child’s individual strengths while building social and emotional confidence and a lifelong love of learning. Families can also enjoy flexible orientations, nutritious meals prepared by the onsite centre cook, and nappies included. The centre offers excursions and incursions, including its Out and About Excursion Program, connecting children with their local community. With government-funded three and fouryear-old kindergarten programs and strong links to local schools, children are supported as they prepare for their next exciting chapter.

ALPINA STREET CHILDCARE AND KINDERGARTEN

JOIN OUR ALPINA ST CHILDCARE FAMILY IN 2027 We are now enrolling funded 3 and 4 years to our kindergarten. Book an obligationfree tour of our family-orientated centre today or call our friendly staff. 14 Alpina Street, Frankston North P 9786 0023 W alpinastreetelc.com.au

A 14 ALPINA STREET, FRANKSTON NORTH P 9786 0023 W ALPINASTREETELC.COM.AU

THE UNTOLD EVENTS CO PROUDLY PRESENTS YOUR LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE

I M A G I N E . D I S C O V E R . C R E AT E . CREATIVE ART PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN 5 – 15 YRS Our professionally designed programs offer a diverse range of activities in a welcoming, neuro-affirming environment. Each engaging and stimulating program encourages creative expression while helping children build confidence and explore their individual strengths.

Support local, support handmade, support innovation, support love, support small business... support your local market! EMU PLAINS MARKET SAT OCT 17TH + SAT NOV 21ST / 9-2 EMU PLAINS RESERVE, BALNARRING www.emuplainsmarket.com.au

Mention this ad to receive 5% off any Robyn’s Room program T&C’s apply

robynsroom.com.au 0404 848 226 Factory 7, 33 Milgate Drive, Mornington

LITTLE BEAUTY MARKET SAT SEP 26TH + SAT OCT 24TH / 9-2 BEAUTY PARK, FRANKSTON www.littlebeautymarket.com.au

new

McCLELLAND

E WELCOM TO OUR T FRESHES EVENT!

McClelland Sculpture Park + Gallery, Langwarrin

SAT OCT 31ST + SUN DEC 6TH / 9-2 w w w. m c c l e l l a n d m a r k e t . c o m . a u

d o g s o n l e a d S W E LC O M E . S T R E E T PA R K I N G A VA I L A B L E + G O L D C O I N E N T R Y F O R M C C L E L L A N D P R O J E C T S

44 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

when school feels impossible UNDERSTANDING SCHOOL REFUSAL or ‘SCHOOL CAN’T’ By Sarah Fortnam-Gray

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or some families, the school morning routine has become a daily battle. A child who once happily walked through the school gates may suddenly experience tears, headaches, stomach aches, panic, shutdown or an overwhelming feeling that they simply cannot attend.

This experience, often referred to as school refusal, is becoming an increasingly recognised issue across Australia and around the world. It is not simply a case of a child being difficult, lazy or choosing not to go to school. Increasingly, experts are recognising that school attendance difficulties are often a sign that something deeper is happening for a young person. continued next page... www.peninsulakids.com.au 45

School Can’t Australia describes “school can’t” as a child’s inability to attend or participate in education, often alongside distress, disengagement or both. Experiences exist across a wide spectrum from students who struggle with morning resistance but still attend, through to young people experiencing such significant distress that leaving their bedroom or completing everyday tasks becomes extremely challenging.

For some students, the right adjustments and support within mainstream schooling will be enough. For others, a different learning environment may provide the opportunity to reconnect with education. Special Assistance Schools, including local options such as Foundation Learning Centre, Indie College and David Scott School all in Frankston and Advance College in Hastings, provide flexible education pathways for students who have struggled to engage in traditional settings.

The scale of the issue is significant. Recent reporting in The Age Most importantly, families do not have to navigate this alone. highlighted that more than 26,000 Victorian Year 8 students are Support is available through: currently disengaged from school, with research estimating that the long-term economic impact could reach $33 billion over their working •Your child’s school wellbeing or engagement team lives. The figures include students who are absent, students who attend •School Can’t Australia but are disengaged and those whose potential is not being fully • Gray Matters – School Engagement Support, a local Peninsulasupported. based service supporting students and families experiencing school But behind every statistic is a child, a family and a story. attendance difficulties Professionals working in this area are seeing increasing numbers of • Can’t Face School, supporting families in Melbourne’s northern young people struggling with anxiety-based school avoidance. The suburbs and online School Refusal Clinic in St Kilda, led by mental health social worker •The School Refusal Clinic in St Kilda John Chellew, specialises in supporting young people experiencing anxiety-related difficulties with school attendance. School refusal is a serious and growing issue, but there is also hope. With understanding, compassion and the right support, many young The important shift is understanding that school refusal is often not people can reconnect with learning, rebuild confidence and rediscover about a child “refusing” at all. A more helpful question is: What is their sense of belonging at school. making school feel impossible right now? A young person who refuses to get dressed, complains of physical symptoms, becomes distressed on Sunday nights or shuts down at the school gate may not be trying to avoid responsibility; they may be communicating that something feels overwhelming, unsafe or beyond their current capacity.

The first step is recognising that behind every missed day is a young person who needs to be understood - not blamed.

School Can’t Australia highlights the importance of moving away from blame and instead becoming curious about a student’s experience. The language we use matters. When adults focus only on behaviour, the underlying barriers can be missed. When adults look beneath the behaviour, they are more likely to understand what support is needed. Early support can make a significant difference. This may involve adjustments within the school environment, wellbeing support, changes to expectations, alternative pathways, therapeutic support or simply creating a plan that allows a young person to rebuild confidence through manageable steps. 46 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

Sarah is a teacher with more than 20 years' experience supporting young people experiencing school refusal, anxiety, neurodiversity and school disengagement. www.gray-matters.com.au

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*Valid from 19/9/26 - 4/10/26. Excludes public holidays. Family ticket *Valid from - 4/10/26. holidays. Family consists of219/9/26 adults and up to 3Excludes children.public Foot passengers travelticket only. consists of2 adults and up to 3 children. Foot passengers travel only.

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BAY VIEWS. WOOD FIRED PIZZA. COCKTAILS BAY VIEWS. WOOD FIRED PIZZA. COCKTAILS ondasorrento.com.au ondasorrento.com.au

www.peninsulakids.com.au 47

Book Reviews

The Brilliant World of Tom Gaits By Liz Pichon

$17.99

Mortal Engines: Bridge of Storms

Library of Memories

By Phillip Reeve

By Barbara Perez Marque Illus. by Lissy Marlin

$22.99

Odd 1’s Out: Art and Comic Collection $24.99

Tom Gates is the master of excuses for late homework: dog attacks and spilt water and lightning ... Tom’s exercise book is full of his doodles, cartoons and thoughts, as well as comments from his long-suffering teacher, Mr. Fullerton. After gaining five merits for his camping sucks holiday story, Tom’s work starts to go downhill ... which is a pity, as he’s desperate to impress Amy Porter, who sits next to him ...

Tamzin Pook and her group of unlikely fightersturned-friends have managed to make it out of Thorbury alive. Now with a massive, terrifying, armoured, and un-dead Revenant (and its pet kitten) as one of their gang. For their next mission, Tamzin and her friends head to the city of Museion to help save it from the ferocious predator suburbs that surround it and keep it trapped in the mountain valley known as the Frying Pan.

Copenhagen arrived at the library one day with little memory of who she is, and she's been stuck here ever since. She takes to helping preserve the library alongside the wise mechanical creatures who tend to its care, but the longer she stays, the more she forgets. Unless she can find her memories, Copenhagen will cease to remember everything that makes her who she is.

Crescent Moon Marching (Vol 1)

Weirdest Ever!

The Budgie Smugglers

By Hamachi Yamada

$19.99

Mizuki has never played a musical instrument. She's never marched in time with a group (it's harder than it looks!). And she's never spent time on school activities when she could be studying. But after leaving behind her high-stress high school in Tokyo and moving to small-town Akita with her aunt, she's looking for a fresh start. And when she crosses paths with Akira, a (very cute) trumpet player who introduces her to their school marching band, this may be just the chance she needs to take a leap and find herself.

The Dark Forest School: Death by Adventure By Trevor Greive

By Anh Do & Jules Feifer

$15.99

Weir's parents are joining him for a school skiing trip! They're rugged up and ready ... but the Do family's never been to the snow before! Will they survive the ski slopes?! It won't be easy ... but it will be funny!

Space Paws (A Graphic Novel) $17.99

Enter the dark forest at your own risk. When legendary wildlife adventurer Lord Greive advertises for a junior field trainee, thousands of children apply. After all, who wouldn't want to risk being torn apart by wild animals just for the chance to work with their hero? Who will make it? And if they do, what are their chances of surviving a week in the terrifying forest . . . ALONE? Where it's dark, it's cold and everything bites.

48 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

By Louis Shea

$17.99

Meet the D-Team! Slightly less good than the goodest of pups, this group of MISFIT RECRUITS has been relegated to the D-Team after just graduating from Paw Fleet Academy training.? Only the D-Team can stop the threat coming for the Paw Fleet base. But will they prove that the 'D' in 'D-Team' stands for DETERMINED, or is it destined to stand for DISAPPOINTING?

By Ty Hartly & Mark Gravas

By James Rallison

$19.99

A collection of popular and never-before-seen comics, plus the origin story of everyone's favourite bubble boy, The Odd 1s Out. In this comprehensive collection, fans will find some of their favourite comics from way back in the day, as well as new additions. And for the uber fans, you will find some behind-the-scenes stories of how the magic is made, including breakdowns of James's creative process, character creation and more.

Dolphin Twins 3 $16.99

By Anh Do & James Hart

$17.99

Here come the Budgie Smugglers-as thick as thieves! One day, Peta and Merry wake up with the worst headaches of their lives! They have NO MEMORY of the night before, a mysterious BIRD EGG in their possession ... and their mate Paul IS MISSING! Can they retrace their steps to unravel the CHAOS THEY CAUSED?! TINY BIRDS, TOTAL MAYHEM!

The epic adventure series from best-selling author Anh Do continues! Finally free of the Dray, Noah and Skye race towards Shipwreck Bay -their mum's last known location. There, they find an old marine park. It looks abandoned, but sea creatures still circle the enclosures ... and the Braxans are on patrol. Danger lurks above ... and below the surface. Can the Dolphin Twins break in and find answers?

KEV and TREV 3: Snot Cool Snow Stories

Oceanforged 3: The Sinking Ruins

By Kylie Howarth

$16.99

Join Kev and Trev’s epic mountaintop adventure – full of chilly thrills and high-flying fun! Watch out for penguin paps, soak in steamy hot springs with snow monkeys and dodge the dreaded Abominable, all while searching for the rare and elusive snow pugons. And this time, the clock is ticking. Book Three is due one week earlier!

By Amelia Mellor

$16.99

Having found two parts of the legendary Oceanforged Armour, Cori, Tarn and Jem set sail to find the third in Halcyon, the secretive island once famed for its beauty. But now that the Prime Council knows of their quest, the journey is more dangerous than ever.

Hotdog & Friends Fun Fair

Better Machine By Lisa Nicol & Michel Streich

$26.99

By Anh Do & Dan McGuiness

Rival High

Rumour Has It $19.99

Moz and Vivian find a strange machine that promises to make any thing BETTER! Their old bikes emerge transformed, with streamers and a shiny horn! What happens when the whole town discovers this mysterious marvel? A timely and thought-provoking tale about the perilous pursuit of 'better' ... and the beauty of enough.

Hotdog and friends are ready for an AWESOME DAY at the FUN FAIR. They can't wait to go on all the carnival rides! But, hang on . . . they're too short! Can the gang find FUN at the fair after all? Laugh along with fan-favourites, Hotdog, Kev and Lizzie, from the best-selling Hotdogseries, in this rollicking rhyming tale for picture book readers!

The Bumlings

$16.99

By Candace Buford & Jamie Green $16.99

Annie couldn't be more excited. She's moving to an adorable small town where she'll find the perfect friend group and maybe even her first boyfriend. Her new house has a pool, and she's getting a stepsister her age named Leela ...

Avery Jones is ready for a fresh start, and what better time than the first day at a new school? That's where she meets Madison (the influencer), Teresa (the genius) and Corinne (the athlete). Each one is so unique and cool, all Avery wants to do is impress them. So when she sees an opportunity to twist the truth a little, she takes it. But when Avery's new school merges with her old school, she finds herself in way over her head juggling two lives and her new friends are starting to get suspicious. Will Avery be able to fix things before her friends figure out the truth?

By Sarah Mlynowski & Madi Wong

Leela is NOT happy. She's leaving the bright lights of New York City to live in the middle of nowhere with an annoying stepsister AND two stepbrothers. Plus, kids at her new school seem gossipy and toxic. Leela wants out.

What’s the Time, Mighty Wolf?

Bowerbird Brave

$19.99

By Katrina Germein & Kooky Chooky $19.99

By Aura Parker

Uh-oh! Teeny Tiny Bum is missing! Where did she go? Luckily, Clever Bum and the Bumlings are here to get to the bottom of it! Can you find the clues too?

The animals are getting closer and closer to Wolf's house ... what is Wolf really up to? Find out in this playful twist on the popular children's game. But be careful ... it's nearly dinnertime!

I am an artist. Always thinking, making, dreaming, designing. The powerful owl is on the prowl ... Can the bowerbirds be brave? A story about creativity, courage and speaking up, from the best-selling author of Bowerbird Blues.

By Evan Turner & Dewy Venerius

Can I Snuggle the Stars? $19.99

By Kerry Brown & Lisa Stewart

$19.99

A baby puffin is searching for someone warm to snuggle through the cold night - but who? A beautiful follow-up to the best-selling Can I Cuddle the Moon? by Kerry Brown and Lisa Stewart.

scan for your chance to...

W in !

Maya Follows Her Nose By Nic Gill Illus. by Jake A. Minton

$17.99

Maya the border collie has been abandoned at the local animal shelter and is worried she won’t find her forever home. But just as her hope starts to fade Dr Romane ‘Rom’ Cristescu comes by looking for a dog with a keen nose to help with her research. Join Maya on her adventure in animal conservation as she builds her confidence and makes new friends! Maya Follows Her Nose is a story of embracing your uniqueness, finding courage, and lending a paw for wildlife.

Bandoola By Beverley McWilliams

$17.99

Curious and headstrong, Bandoola can’t seem to avoid mischief. Po Toke, the man who raised him, believes he will become a great logging elephant one day. But Bandoola doesn’t want to spend his life hauling logs. Inipired by true events, Bandoola is a story of courage, friendship, and the extraordinary bond between people and animals.

Take home one of two book prize packs. peninsulakids.com.au/giveaways

www.peninsulakids.com.au 49

Here's just a few of the wonderful places on the peninsula and bayside region to take your family out for a ‘lil bite’ to eat! •Portsea

1

•Rye

•Sorrento

•Boneo

9

1

AWED BY NATURE.

3

2

KID

menuS ! KIDSY

PLAR. CN

LITTLE ONES menu !

QUEENSCLIFF - SORRENTO

KIDS MENU & A KIDS PLAY CORNER 167 POINT NEPEAN ROAD, DROMANA 5981 4624 • LANEWAYESPRESSO.COM

HOME OF THE TRADITIONAL NAPOLI WOOD FIRE PIZZA 199-201 POINT NEPEAN ROAD, DROMANA 5981 9186 • ZERO95.COM.AU

9

8 Buffet from 5pm 7 days | Sunday lunch from 12pm

117 EASTBOURNE ROAD ROSEBUD 50 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

0-3yo EAT FREE 4 -7yo $12.90 • 7-11yo $15.90 12-14yo $24.90

27 Marine Parade Hastings • 5977 6446

The Family Favourite Peninsula Beer Garden blends local charm with family-friendly fun 215 BROWNS ROAD, BONEO I 5988 2500 PENINSULABEERGARDEN.COM.AU

•Frankston10 •Mt Eliza •Mornington •Mt Martha Tyabb•

4 2

3

•Dromana

Tuerong• Hastings• 8

•Rosebud •Arthurs Seat

6

Bittern•

5

11

Balnarring•

•Red Hill

Somers• Merricks• Shoreham• Flinders• 4

5

6

VICTORIA’S ONLY DEDICATED RUM DISTILLERY BAR & RESTAURANT EXPERIENCES EVENTS

•

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All day breakfast and lunch. Dinner starting from 5pm, including wood fire pizza. Kids meals available. 6 Brasser Ave, Dromana

Shop 43/37 McCombe Street, Rosebud I 5985 9896

jimmyrum.com.au

10

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advertise your business with us!

Where Red Hill mornings begin.

fratellifrankston.com.au P: 9776 5277 227 Cranbourne Road Frankston Open 7 Days 11am - 10pm

Fresh, seasonal food. Allpress Coffee. A beautiful start to your Peninsula adventures.

5989 2171

To book an ad in our next issue, contact:

Molly 0407 225 261 molly@mpnews.com.au www.peninsulakids.com.au 51

SURVIVAL Large Gen 8 First Aid Kit Their flagship KIT, carrying the depth to treat three or more people and to keep going when one dressing is never enough, the large KIT has more of everything on board which means fewer trips to restock. It is the KIT you reach for first, and the one you are most glad is there. From a splinter at the campsite to a serious bleed a long way from help, it handles the full range. Every item was developed in conjunction with paramedics and chosen for real emergencies, not to make up the numbers. RRP: $274.95 survivalfirstaidkits.net.au

Bitty POP! The world of POP! is getting bigger— and smaller—with Bitty POP! collectibles! Discover Bitty POP! Singles: Harry Potter™ and Dragon Ball Z, each featuring one mystery collectible figure, plus the Bitty POP! Sanrio 4-Pack: Hello Kitty and Friends. Bitty POP! Singles RRP $5.99; Sanrio 4-Pack RRP $24.99. Available at EB Games, Popcultcha, Toymate and selected hobby and specialty retailers. *Stock varies by retailer.

DINNER? SORTED! Delicious home cooked meals, ready for your convenience.

Whether you're a tradie, a senior, a family or someone who doesn't want to cook but wants the freshness, taste and convenience of a home cooked meal, then we've got you.

EASY TO ORDER Contact Sonya on 0417 523 173, or via email hello@josephinessweettreats.com.au for a menu.

Visit us at 196 Stony Point Rd, Crib Point. IG josephinesbakehouseco FB Josephines Sweet Treats 52 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

We have ten prize packs to giveaway! including 1 × Bitty POP! Singles: Dragon Ball Z (RRP: $5.99) 1 × Bitty POP! Singles: Harry Potter™ (RRP: $5.99), 1 × Bitty POP! Sanrio 4-Pack: Hello Kitty and Friends (RRP: $24.99)

Mum Club Mum Club is an Australian brand creating everyday hats designed for modern parenthood. Founded in 2023 by two Aussie mums, the brand began as a response to the realities of postpartum life and the unfiltered experience of parenting. Mum Club designs functional, expressive products that help parents feel seen, supported and connected, embracing imperfection as part of everyday life. Its signature caps, emblazoned with phrases such as Mum Era, A Bit On, & Le Tired, have struck a chord for their relatability and quiet humour. At its core, the brand celebrates parents while rejecting the pressure of polished parenting.

2 CAPS TO GIVE AWAY! (one of each style)

RRP: $52.00

Uncle Tobys Cheerios Low Sugar

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Known for its vanilla flavour, Cheerios Low Sugar is made with three whole grains (wheat, corn and oats) and has a 4.5 Health Star Rating. With less than 10g of sugar per 100g and key nutrients including fibre, calcium and iron, the iconic O-shaped Cheerios Low Sugar have become a favourite among Australian families Available nationally from leading supermarkets RRP: $7.50

Yoto Player Yoto Player (3rd Generation) is the ultimate screen-free audio player for kids age 3-12+. Built to inspire imagination and independence, Yoto offers a world of stories, music, learning and adventure in a safe, kidfriendly way. Simply pop in a Yoto card and let the fun begin! Player RRP: $179.99, Adventure Jacket RRP: $49.99, Cards from RRP: $9.99 au.yotoplay.com

Founded by a mum and proudly Australian owned and run, Beddie brings colour and conscious comfort into homes across Australia. Pure 100% premium cotton bedding, no nasties, no plastics.

www.beddie.com.au

www.peninsulakids.com.au 53

PR

ON

ECKLI

ST

H

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R.S.V

OTECTI

By Kate Gunthorpe

D

espite being unfamiliar to many Australians, RSV is having serious impacts on infants. Australia records around 12,000 hospitalisations of babies under one due to RSV every year, making it one of the leading causes of paediatric hospital admissions, especially during the colder months. These rates are alarming- yet new research shows most Australians who are hesitant about RSV vaccination have never heard of the virus or know very little about it.

This is a gap that pharmacies are working hard to close- TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacies have administered more than 16,000 RSV vaccinations nationally this season alone. This marks a 400% increase year-on-year RSV vaccination rate, which is reflecting the growing shift Australia is seeing towards pharmacies becoming a frontline touchpoint for preventive care. RSV isn't new, but for a lot of families, it's unheard of. It can be particularly dangerous for newborns and young babies, but the good news is protection is simple, free and easy to access. You don't need to wait until someone gets sick to act.

54 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

what Aussie families should know... 2

Protect young babies directly with infant immunisation

If you missed the maternal vaccine during pregnancy or are looking for further ways to protect your child, direct infant immunisation is another highly effective option. While pregnant women can help protect their babies from birth by getting vaccinated, we can also give babies direct protection via infant immunisation programs. This serves as a critical shield, especially during autumn and winter when the risk of transmission peaks and hospitalisation rates rise. What parents need to know about infant RSV immunisation:

❉ Who it is for: It is highly recommended for young infants under 12 months, as they are the most vulnerable to developing severe complications from the virus.

❉ Why it is critical: Without protection, RSV can move incredibly fast.

1

Get vaccinated during pregnancy- timing matters

The most effective way to protect a newborn from severe RSV is maternal vaccination. Vaccination during pregnancy is the best protection we have for infants. But a lot of people don’t realise that this vaccine is free, or maternal vaccinations are an option.

While it looks like a common cold in older family members, in babies it can rapidly progress to severe breathing difficulties, bronchiolitis, or pneumonia. If you have a newborn or a young baby, don’t wait until someone in the house is unwell to ask about protection. Speak to your pharmacist, GP, midwife, or immunisation provider about Australia's infant RSV protection program. It provides an invaluable safety net during those critical first months.

continued next page...

The maternal RSV vaccine is:

❉ Free under the National Immunisation Program ❉ Recommended between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy ❉ Proven effective - hospitalisations in babies under three months have dropped by 43.8% since the program began This decrease in infant hospitalisations since the maternal RSV vaccine program began is significant. It shows that something as simple as having a five-minute conversation with your midwife, GP or pharmacist can make a meaningful difference for the health of your baby.

www.peninsulakids.com.au 55

3

Learn to spot the difference between a cold and something more serious

RSV often starts out with mild side-effects, which can make the illness hard to gage. For most adults and older kids, RSV can look just like a common cold. But in babies, particularly those under six months, it can progress quickly to breathing difficulties, bronchiolitis or pneumonia.

Physical symptoms to watch out for:

❉ Rapid or laboured breathing ❉ Difficulty feeding ❉ Unusual lethargy or irritability ❉ Wheezing or persistent coughing If you notice any of these signs in a young baby, acting quickly is critical. You should get them seen by a doctor immediately.

4

Build hygiene habits into the household routine

Simple hygiene measures remain an important layer of protection alongside vaccination. Regular handwashing, especially before handling a newborn, makes a real difference. It's a small habit, but it matters. Other everyday steps include:

❉ Covering coughs and sneezes with an elbow, not hands ❉ Wiping down frequently touched surfaces, especially with older siblings in the house

❉ K eeping newborns away from crowded or enclosed spaces where possible during peak RSV season

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56 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

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5

Don't send unwell children (or adults) near vulnerable family members

Family gatherings, especially with a new baby, are exactly when RSV can spread the fastest. It might feel like just a cold, but if you're unwell, it's best to keep your distance from a newborn or an elderly relative until you're better. It protects the people most at risk, and it's one of the easiest things families can do.

Accessible protection for busy families For pregnant women and new parents, convenience can make all the difference in getting protected on time. Pharmacies are often the easiest place to have this conversation. You don't always need to wait for a scheduled antenatal visit or GP appointment- a pharmacist can talk you through eligibility, explain the science in plain language, and often vaccinate on the spot.

The bottom line RSV can shift quickly from looking like a mild cold to something much more serious, especially in very young babies. But we have real, effective tools to prevent that now. Getting informed and vaccinated early- during pregnancy, or as an eligible older Australian- is one of the simplest ways to protect the people you love.

Kate Gunthorpe (BPharm, GradCertAdvPracPresPharm, GradCertPubPolicy, MPS) is Deputy Chief Pharmacist for TerryWhite Chemmart, one of Australia's largest community pharmacy networks. In her role, Kate supports pharmacists across the country to deliver safe, accessible clinical care in community pharmacy, including vaccinations and the expanding scope of pharmacist prescribing.

Mornington Village Pharmacy has changed to

TerryWhite Chemmart Mornington Village. We are now located upstairs next to Aldi www.peninsulakids.com.au 57

Before you buy a

By Yvette O'Dowd

E

This gives them time to handle different styles, try them on, consider xpectant parents spend months researching prams, car what will suit their bodies and lifestyles, and learn the safety principles restraints, cots, nappies and feeding equipment. A baby carrier is often added after seeing one recommended online, they will need from their baby’s first days. A free, local babywearing workshop can be an excellent place to begin. noticing another parent using one, or receiving one as a gift. But preparing for babywearing involves more than choosing a popular brand and putting the box aside until the baby arrives. Ideally, parents should learn about babywearing early enough in pregnancy and before they have invested in a carrier.

A recent Durham University study surveyed 1,470 parents and caregivers about their use of baby carriers, wraps and slings. Almost nine out of ten had decided to babywear before or during pregnancy, and more than 96 per cent began during their baby’s first three months. Yet many had received little guidance about choosing an appropriate carrier or using one safely. Parents often turned to social media, websites, friends and manufacturers’ instructions. Many were unaware that specialist babywearing support was available. The researchers concluded that safety information should be provided during pregnancy and the early postnatal period. It should also be available to fathers, partners, grandparents and anyone else who will regularly carry the baby. The newborn period is when families are most likely to begin using a carrier, but it can also be one of the hardest times to learn an unfamiliar skill. Carrier advertising can suggest that choosing a carrier is simply a matter of selecting a colour, reading the age range on the box, and clicking “add to cart”.

IN REALITY, CARRIERS FIT BODIES DIFFERENTLY. Parents vary in height, torso length, shoulder shape, mobility and sensitivity to pressure. Some have back, hip, pelvic or shoulder concerns. Some prefer wrapping fabric; others prefer buckles. A carrier comfortable on one parent may feel awkward on their partner. There is also no single carrier that is best for every newborn. Some buckle carriers advertised as suitable “from birth” do not fit every newborn immediately. Babies vary in size, proportions, muscle tone and development. Premature and low birth weight babies may need additional assessment before being carried. Attending a workshop before purchasing allows parents to compare carrier styles without sales pressure. They can explore stretchy and woven wraps, ring slings, soft newborn carriers and adjustable buckle carriers before deciding what to investigate further. Community babywearing workshops are educational rather than retail events. There are no products to sell and no expectation that parents will buy a carrier on the day. 58 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

Granny’s Guide

Why attending a babywearing workshop during pregnancy can help you choose safely and confidently DO NOT LEAVE IT UNTIL THE FINAL WEEKS.

LEARN WHAT TO CHECK EVERY TIME.

Late pregnancy is still useful for learning, but a large bump can make some waistbands difficult to position and make the fit less representative of how the carrier will feel after birth.

A workshop should teach parents to assess the whole position rather than simply fasten the carrier.

Attending during the middle months gives parents a better opportunity to try carriers against their own bodies.

Can you see the baby’s entire face? Are the nose and mouth uncovered? Is the baby upright? Is there space beneath the chin? continued next page...

Using a weighted demonstration doll, they can practise putting a carrier on, tightening it correctly and removing the baby safely. Partners and other caregivers can practise too, because each wearer may need different adjustments. A doll cannot wriggle, cry or suddenly need to feed, but antenatal practice makes the equipment less unfamiliar when the real baby arrives.

SAFETY IS MORE THAN T.I.C.K.S. The T.I.C.K.S. guidelines provide an important starting point: Tight: The carrier should hold the baby securely. Loose fabric can allow a young baby to slump. In view at all times: The baby’s face should remain visible and uncovered. Close enough to kiss: A newborn should be carried high on the wearer’s chest. Keep the chin off the chest: The baby’s head must not fall forward into a position that restricts the airway. Supported back: The carrier should support the baby’s body and prevent curling or slumping. However, the Durham University study found that parents wanted more than an acronym. They wanted practical information about positioning, fit checks, feeding, sleeping, overheating, illness and how long babies could remain in a carrier.

UNDERSTANDING WHY POSITIONING MATTERS. Young babies, particularly those under four months, have relatively large, heavy heads and limited head and neck control. If a baby slumps, their chin can be pushed towards their chest and their airway restricted. Their nose or mouth can also become pressed against fabric or the wearer’s body. A baby experiencing breathing difficulty might not cry or struggle. They can be silent, which is why safe babywearing requires active monitoring. www.peninsulakids.com.au 59

Afterwards, the baby needs to be returned to a high, upright position with their face visible and airway clear. A temporary feeding position is not the position in which the baby should continue to be carried. These are useful points to discuss before parents are tired and facing a crying newborn.

COME BACK AFTER BIRTH. Is the carrier tight enough to prevent slumping? Is the back supported? Does the carrier suit the baby’s current size and development? Is the baby becoming too warm? These checks should be repeated while the carrier is being used. Babies move, straps loosen, clothing shifts and a baby’s position can change after feeding or falling asleep.

WHEN BABIES SLEEP IN CARRIERS. Babies commonly fall asleep while being carried. In a well-designed, correctly fitted carrier, a sleeping baby remains high and upright against the wearer, with their face visible, chin away from their chest and back fully supported. Sleep itself is not the problem. Risks arise when a carrier allows a young baby to slump, curl deeply, drop too low or press their face into fabric or clothing. Loose fabric or straps can allow the baby’s position to change as their muscles relax. Some harness-style carriers have limited adjustability and cannot be tightened sufficiently around a small baby. They may appear secure because the buckles are fastened while still leaving space for the baby to slump. Other carriers mould closely around the baby and provide more continuous support. Parents need to assess a carrier rather than relying only on its price, brand, packaging or stated age range. A sleeping baby should continue to be monitored. Their face should remain visible, nose and mouth uncovered, and head supported in a position that keeps the airway open.

An antenatal workshop provides preparation, but it cannot replace support with the individual baby. Once the baby arrives, parents can return for a fit check. An educator can confirm that the carrier suits the baby’s actual size and development, help position the baby and adjust the carrier for the recovering parent’s body. This can be especially useful after a caesarean birth or when a parent has pelvic, back, shoulder or mobility difficulties. Carriers also need to be readjusted as babies grow. Newborn settings will not remain appropriate throughout infancy.

LOCAL SUPPORT WITHOUT A SALES PITCH. Families on the Mornington Peninsula and across Melbourne’s southeast can attend free community babywearing workshops through South Eastern Babywearing Group. Parents are welcome during pregnancy, preferably before purchasing a carrier. They can explore different styles, practise with demonstration dolls, learn safe positioning and think realistically about what may suit their family. There are no products for sale. The purpose is education, preparation and support. After the baby arrives, families can attend again with their carrier and baby for help in achieving a safe, comfortable fit. A carrier is not simply another item to tick off the shopping list. Learning how to choose one, monitoring a young baby and finding support matters just as much.

Before buying, parents can learn how different designs support a sleeping newborn, how securely a carrier should fit and what to check when a baby relaxes into sleep. This helps them make a more informed choice before investing.

FEEDING IN A CARRIER. Feeding in a carrier is not a hands-free activity. Breastfeeding in a carrier is usually easier to explore once feeding is established and the baby has greater head and neck control. The baby must be supported with the wearer’s hands during the feed.

60 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

Yvette O’Dowd is not your typical grandmother! This mother of three and 'Granny' of three has been a breastfeeding counsellor since 1992. In 2014, Yvette established the Southern Natural Parenting Network, incorporating South Eastern Babywearing Group. With 11,000 members world-wide, the group supports parents interested in breastfeeding, babywearing, co-sleeping, baby-led weaning and modern cloth nappies and other aspects of gentle, natural parenting. www.facebook.com/SouthernNaturalParentingNetwork

A TERM OF MAGICAL MOMENTS WITH BABY SENSORY Join Baby Sensory Mornington Peninsula for an incredible Term 4. It’s the term of celebrations with Beach Party, Baby Pumpkin (so cute!), Jelly Party, the stunning 'Say Hello' Baby Sensory special class, Space Adventure and, of course, Baby’s First Christmas (and so many more!) It really is a term not to be missed. It is now widely recognised that babies learn more during the first year than at any other time in their life. Baby Sensory is a learning and development class specifically designed for babies from birth to 13 months. Everything they do is based on 35+ years of research into how your baby develops in this precious first year. Each week the parent-baby classes are packed with an incredible variety of activities, all designed to aid your baby’s brain development as well as to enhance social and emotional skills. The warm, relaxed environment also makes their classes a fabulous place to connect with other new parents in the community. Come and join in the fun! @babysensorymorningtonpeninsula @babysensorymorningtonpeninsula babysensory.com.au/morning-vic

UNDERSTANDING CHILDREN, SUPPORTING THEIR STRENGTHS

Psychological assessments and therapy for children in Mornington. 2/230 Main Street, Mornington 8740 9221 hello@abcchildpsychology.com.au abcchildpsychology.com.au @abcchildpsychology

ABC Child Psychology provides comprehensive, evidencebased psychological assessment and support for children and adolescents aged 2 to 16 years. Led by AHPRA-registered psychologist Amy, the practice supports children experiencing developmental, learning, emotional and behavioural difficulties. ABC Child Psychology specialises in comprehensive assessments for autism, ADHD, learning disorders, intellectual disability and other developmental differences. Using gold-standard assessment tools alongside developmental history, clinical observations and information gathered across settings, assessments provide a detailed understanding of each child’s individual strengths, areas of difficulty and support needs. The practice also provides evidence-based psychological intervention tailored to each child and their individual circumstances. ABC Child Psychology offers a calm, private and welcoming environment designed to help children feel comfortable and supported. There is no busy reception or waiting room; families are welcomed personally by Amy, creating a relaxed and unhurried experience. Whether you're ready to book an assessment or simply have a question, get in touch with Amy today. 2/230 Main Street, Mornington 8740 9221 hello@abcchildpsychology.com.au @abcchildpsychology abcchildpsychology.com.au www.peninsulakids.com.au 61

SPRING AWAKENS AT ASHCOMBE MAZE & GARDENS As winter gives way to spring, the Mornington Peninsula begins to take on a fresh energy. At Ashcombe Maze & Gardens, the changing season brings new growth, softer light, longer days and a renewed invitation to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. Set across 25 acres of beautiful gardens, Ashcombe offers visitors the opportunity to step away from the pace of everyday life and reconnect with nature. Winding pathways lead through established trees, flowering gardens and peaceful pockets waiting to be explored, with something new to discover around every corner. Spring is a particularly special time to visit, as the gardens begin to wake after the cooler months. Fresh growth and new colour gradually emerge throughout the property, creating an ever-changing landscape that rewards visitors who take the time to wander, explore and simply enjoy being outside. The gardens at Ashcombe are constantly evolving, meaning no two visits are quite the same. Seasonal changes bring different colours, textures and highlights, while the established landscape provides a beautiful backdrop for a relaxed day on the Peninsula. For families, couples and visitors of all ages, there is plenty of space to explore at their own pace. Of course, no visit to Ashcombe would be complete without discovering its famous hedge mazes. Winding through the greenery provides a sense of adventure and fun, with the mazes offering an experience that can be enjoyed by both children and adults. They form part of the broader Ashcombe experience, where exploring the gardens is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

62 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

Spring also brings longer, brighter days that make it easier to take the time to enjoy a full day out. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, tackle the mazes and then make their way to the café for a relaxing coffee, lunch or something to enjoy before continuing their exploration. For families, Ashcombe provides an opportunity to spend quality time together outdoors, away from screens and the distractions of busy schedules. For couples and friends, it offers a peaceful setting to wander, chat and enjoy the beauty of the Peninsula in spring. There is something inherently refreshing about seeing a garden come alive after winter, and Ashcombe captures that feeling beautifully. From the first signs of new growth to the changing colours throughout the gardens, spring offers another reason to return and see what has changed since the last visit. For those looking for a relaxed Mornington Peninsula experience this spring, Ashcombe Maze & Gardens offers the chance to explore, reconnect and enjoy the simple pleasure of being outdoors. With 25 acres to wander, winding pathways to follow, hedge mazes to navigate and a café to enjoy along the way, Ashcombe is a quintessential Peninsula day out — and in spring, the gardens are ready to be discovered all over again.

ashcombemaze.com.au

Reconnect, Explore & Play

15 Shoreham Road, Shoreham

ashcombemaze.com.au

5989 8387

www.peninsulakids.com.au 63

THE GROWING NEED FOR FOSTER CARERS ON THE MORNINGTON PENINSULA Every child deserves a safe, stable and nurturing environment in which to grow and thrive. Yet every year, many local children and young people are unable to live with their birth families due to circumstances compromising their safety. As demand for out-of-home care continues to rise, the need for compassionate foster carers has never been greater. MacKillop Family Services foster carers play a vital role in providing children and young people with the security, support and encouragement they need during difficult periods in their lives. By opening their homes and hearts, carers can make a meaningful difference, helping young people build confidence and achieve their full potential.

of the way. From the initial application process through to placement support, MacKillop works alongside carers to ensure they have the tools, resources and confidence to provide the best possible care. Take the first step to find out more on their website.

SCAN BELOW FOR MORE INFORMATION

Carers can choose to provide emergency care, offering children a safe place to stay at short notice, while others provide short-term care as families work through challenges, or long-term care when children are unable to return home in the foreseeable future. There is also the option of providing respite care, giving both children and foster carers valuable short breaks and additional support. Foster carers choose the type of care they wish to provide, so that it fits in with their busy work and personal lives. Importantly, foster carers are never on their own. At MacKillop Family Services, carers receive comprehensive training, ongoing guidance and access to a dedicated team of professionals who are there every step

Become a foster carer mackillop.org.au 64 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

mackillop.org.au/fostercare

BRING HOME THE MAGIC OF CHICKS THIS SPRING There’s something truly magical about bringing a fluffy little chick home for the first time. As spring arrives, many families are looking for meaningful ways to connect their children with nature, and raising backyard chickens is a wonderful way to introduce kids to animals, responsibility and where their food comes from.

This spring, why not add a few fluffy new family members to your backyard? Visit Talking Hens in Merricks to meet their available chicks, explore our range of chick-rearing supplies and chat with our knowledgeable team. They would love to see you!

For families who would love to experience the joy of raising chicks, Talking Hens offers a simple way to get started. Their chicks are DNA sexed and vaccinated, giving you confidence when choosing your new flock members and peace of mind knowing they’ve had a healthy start. Bringing chicks home is an exciting experience for the whole family, but being prepared is important. Young chicks need a safe and secure environment, appropriate nutrition, clean bedding, fresh water and plenty of care as they grow and you can be assured that Talking Hens has all the equipment and accessories you need for a smooth journey. At Talking Hens they're passionate about helping families experience the joy of raising backyard chickens. Whether you’re welcoming your very first chicks or adding to an existing flock, their friendly team is here to help you choose the right breeds and make sure you have everything you need. They believe backyard chickens are more than just pets. They’re a wonderful way for children to learn about caring for animals, nature and the food on their plate and they bring plenty of personality and joy to the backyard along the way.

3590 Frankston-Flinders Road, Merricks Open 7-days, 10am to 4pm 0406 691 231 talkinghens.com.au

Looking for backyard but unsure tart?

Talking Hens is a business that enjoys backyard hens. We specialise in friendly, egg laying hens with quality products to keep them happy and healthy. There’s nothing like the friendship and entertainment that you receive from our laying hens - a pleasure to be shared!

Talking Hens 3590 Frankston-Flinders Rd Merricks, Vic 3916

Open

: 10am to 4pm

For enquiries call 0406 691 231 Email: talk@talkinghens.com.au Visit: TalkingHens.com.au www.peninsulakids.com.au 65

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Ann-Marie Hermans MP ANN-MARIE HERMANS MP

Liberal State Member for South Eastern Metropolitan Region Shadow Assistant Minister for Community Safety.

As the Upper House State Member for South East Metropolitan, Ann-Marie Hermans proudly represents families across Frankston, Seaford, Patterson Lakes, Skye, Carrum and Carrum Downs. With strong ties to the region, her parents were married in Frankston, and she has spent many years living in Melbourne’s South East, where she and her husband Mark raised their four children. A passionate advocate for families, Ann-Marie believes parents should have an active voice in the way their children are raised and supported. Drawing on her background as a former teacher, she understands the powerful role education plays in shaping a child’s future and remains committed to supporting teachers, schools and early learning communities across Victoria. Dedicated to standing up for Victoria’s forgotten people, Ann-Marie continues to fight for meaningful change and a stronger future for local families. She encourages residents to reach out and share their stories, concerns and experiences with her office.

A VOICE FOR YOUR FAMILY As a local of the South East and mum of four kids, I know firsthand the challenges of raising a family. I am here to support you and advocate for: improved community safety better school facilities cost of living relief better health services

Get in touch with me!

Suite 1/31 Princes Highway, Dandenong ann-marie.hermans@parliament.vic.gov.au 9794 7667 ann-mariehermans.com.au

1/31 Princes Highway, Dandenong VIC 3175 ann-marie.hermans@parliament.vic.gov.au Ann-MarieHermans.com.au 03 9794 7667 AnnMarieHermansMP

Authorised by Ann-Marie Hermans MP, 1/31 Princes Highway, Dandenong VIC 3175

THEY’RE BACK! The strawberries are ready to go and now they just need you! Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm reopens Friday 30 October, just in time for a huge weekend of family fun. On Saturday 31 October and Sunday 1 Nov the farm will be celebrating Halloween with strawberry picking, face painting, balloon twisting, Animals of Oz and MORE! Bring the family, get the kids outdoors and enjoy a fun-filled day. Visit their website and socials for the full weekend program and activity times.

ING OPEN ND E WEEK AY D I R F BER OCTO 30

PICK YOUR OWN STRAWBERRIES Daily from 10am – 4.30pm (last entry) through to the end of April. Check our website for current picking conditions.

Throughout the season, pick your own juicy strawberries then enjoy blueberries, raspberries and blackberries from late December to midFebruary, when in season. Make a day of it with delicious ice cream and one of Rocky Creek’s famous café desserts, fresh produce from the Farm Gate and plenty of strawberry-themed goodies in their retail store.

Café & Farm Gate open daily • Check website for updates

244 Shands Rd, Main Ridge Rockycreek.com.au 66 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

244 Shands Road Main Ridge Open daily, 10am–5pm | 30 October 2026 – 30 April 2027 rockycreek.com.au

THE KIDS ARE WATCHING The way we relate with our significant others, and how we interact with our children, is teaching our kids every day. What do relationships look like? How should they feel? Your child’s roadmap for their own life has already started in your home. What are you teaching them? What are you showing them? Anne works with couples and individuals who want to improve their own relationships, fix negative patterns, and help pass better patterns down to their kids. Relationship work can break generations of negative cycles. If you’d like to have a better relationship for yourself, and for your children, it’s almost certainly possible. Relationships are challenging. The Hollywood story of ‘happily ever after’ is simply not true. Rather, most of us learned responses that have become automatic in our own childhoods through the way we were treated and what was modelled to us. The good news? Many of these patterns CAN be changed. Anne not only identifies the patterns, she teaches the skills required to do things differently, and also works with the part of you that won’t want to use those skills in the middle of a tense moment! Anne’s work brings couples from ‘stuck’ or even ‘on the brink’, back into relational health. A place where you can speak up and feel heard, and enjoy a connection that you may never have thought possible. A connection that not only changes your own life but your children’s too.

annesidebottom.com

Couples Therapy, Counselling and Leadership Coaching

Relationship Counselling and Coaching Wellbeing Sanctuary, Mount Eliza Enhanced Psychotherapy, Mornington Telehealth/online www.annesidebottom.com @annesidebottomcounselling anne@annesidebottom.com

www.peninsulakids.com.au 67

READY FOR SUMMER? THE TIME TO START IS NOW As the weather warms up, many parents start thinking about summer and water safety, but by the time the summer school holidays arrive, often lessons are booked out and waitlists are longer. Paul Sadler Swimland Carrum Downs, part of The Survival Specialists network since 1972, encourages local families to get ahead of the rush and start lessons this spring, not wait until summer. Every week in the water builds real skills. Kids who start now arrive at summer with stronger strokes, better breath control and more water confidence, not just beginner basics learned in a rush. The teachers at Carrum Downs focus on practical survival skills, like treading water, so kids are safer around water all year round, not just during the warmer months. With over 50 years of experience, Paul Sadler Swimland Carrum Downs helps local families feel confident their kids are learning to swim, and learning to survive, well before summer arrives. Locals are encouraged to book early in person, by phone or online.

149 Hall Rd, Carrum Downs 9782 9444 paulsadlerswimland.com.au

SOUL CIRCUS LET EVERYBODY SHINE Looking for something fun, active and confidence-building these school holidays? Join Soul Circus for holiday circus fun during the school holidays, where kids can climb, swing, spin and move through exciting aerial circus activities. Soul Circus’ holiday programs are designed so every child shines. Children build strength, coordination and confidence in a safe, supportive and inclusive club environment, guided by experienced aerial circus coaches. No experience is needed — just curiosity, movement and fun. Then continue the journey into term classes at Soul Circus. Their weekly classes support children to develop skills at their own pace, build friendships and discover what their bodies are capable of. From preschoolers to teens, beginners to more experienced students, Soul Circus aerial circus school offers a place for everyone. Holiday programs fill fast. Term classes are now taking enrolments.

soulcircus.info 68 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE, PROTECTING WHAT MATTERS For families navigating separation, changes to family life or planning for the future, having access to clear and practical legal advice can provide valuable peace of mind. Mulligan Lawyers is a full-service law firm servicing the Mornington Peninsula and Rosebud by appointment, supporting individuals and families across a range of legal matters. The firm’s experienced family lawyers assist with matters including divorce, de facto relationships, parenting and child custody issues, property matters and the division of assets following the breakdown of a relationship. Mulligan Lawyers provides fixed-fee legal advice and representation for divorce and de facto property settlements, helping clients have greater certainty around their legal costs.

Across its range of services, Mulligan Lawyers offers fixed-price and billing options in most matters, giving clients greater transparency and certainty when engaging legal services. For families seeking experienced legal support during times of change or wanting to put plans in place for the future, Mulligan Lawyers provides practical advice and representation tailored to each individual situation.

Planning ahead is also an important part of protecting a family’s future. Mulligan Lawyers assists clients with wills and estate matters, including contested wills and estate litigation, helping families put appropriate arrangements in place and navigate difficult circumstances when disputes arise. The firm also provides advice across commercial matters, employment law, litigation and other areas of law. Founding Principal Patrick Mulligan has extensive legal experience and holds Bachelor of Laws and Arts degrees, as well as a Master of Law from the Australian National University.

(03)8564 8592 pmulligan@mulliganlawyers.com.au mulliganlawyers.com.au

Mulligan Lawyers Pty Ltd ABN: 80 168 710 359

PAY FOR THE JOB NOT BY THE HOUR. • BUSINESS LAW • FAMILY LAW • CRIMINAL LAW • PROPERTY LAW • WILLS AND ESTATES • LITIGATION Call us now. We service Rosebud and Mornington Peninsula by appointment. MULLIGAN LAWYERS IS A GENERAL PRACTICE. PATRICK MULLIGAN, PRINCIPAL LAWYER HAS PRACTISED LAW FOR OVER 19 YEARS.

P 03 8564 8592 W mulliganlawyers.com.au E pmulligan@mulliganlawyers.com.au www.peninsulakids.com.au 69

WHERE FUTURE MARINE SCIENTISTS BEGIN What if a girl could spend a term exploring life as a marine biologist? STEM Girls Sea Rangers Mornington Peninsula is a hands-on marine science and conservation program designed for girls aged 9–12 and 13–16. Launching in Term 4, 2026, with Term 1, 2027 also available, the program offers fortnightly homeschool and weekend sessions. Participants explore coastal ecosystems, ocean wildlife, marine biology and conservation through hands-on investigations, wildlife encounters and field-based STEM activities. They’ll build scientific skills while developing confidence, curiosity, resilience and leadership in a supportive community. STEM Girls Sea Rangers also offers optional extension experiences, including visits to the Sydney Institute of Marine Science and marine research adventures at locations such as the Great Barrier Reef, Gold Coast and Byron Bay. The program aims to inspire the next generation marine biologists, conservationists and ocean champions while helping girls see a future for themselves in science and the natural Places are limited. To book, bookings@oceanawildlife.org. @oceanawildlife

of

STEM GIRLS angers ea RPeninsula SMornington Explore our coastal ecosystems and learn all about ocean wildlife. Homeschool and weekend program fortnightly. Field trips to Sydney Institute of Marine Science, Great Barrier Reef, Gold Coast and Byron Bay.

Places ! Open Now

• Term 4 - 2026 • Term 1 - 2027

For girls aged 9-12 and 13-16. world. email

Jasmin Oceana - Mum, Marine Biologist and Environmental Scientist. Teacher. Wildlife Educator.

PLACES LIMITED

Bookings: bookings@oceanawildlife.org @oceanawildliferangers

SONYA KILKENNY MP As the Member for Carrum, Sonya is proud to deliver the things that matter most: • Free kinder for 3 & 4 year olds • Free TAFE • Free public transport for kids under 18 • More PSOs at our train stations • School Upgrades • Road Upgrades

I am so proud to represent the residents of Bonbeach, Carrum, Carrum Downs, Lyndhurst, Patterson Lakes, Sandhurst, Seaford and Skye. We are so fortunate to be a part of this incredible community – so welcoming, caring, positive and resilient.

I’m here to help. And I’d love to hear your views and ideas on how we can make our local community even better for everyone.

Sonya Kilkenny MP State Member for Carrum District 622 Nepean Highway, Carrum VIC 3197 sonya.kilkenny@parliament.vic.gov.au 9773 2727 SonyaKilkennyMP

70 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

• New Frankston Hospital Every day local families, workers, small businesses, and community organisations speak with Sonya about what matters to them - safe neighbourhoods, better roads and public transport, strong local schools and health services, and opportunities for their children to thrive. There is always more work to do, and Sonya will continue listening, advocating and delivering for our community.

622 Nepean Highway, Carrum 9773 2727 sonya.kilkenny@parliament.vic.gov.au @sonyaKilkennyMP

SPRING TAKES FLIGHT AT ARTHURS SEAT EAGLE There’s a new reason to look down from the Eagle this spring! For a limited time, a series of large-scale Earthwork Art Installations will appear beneath the gondola line, transforming the journey over Arthurs Seat into an art experience in the landscape. Created especially for the Eagle by renowned Mornington Peninsula artist Father Marker, the works celebrate birds, movement and our enduring fascination with flight. Formed using stone and other natural materials, they have been designed to reveal themselves from above each one becoming visible as the gondola moves across the mountain.

across Port Phillip Bay make it easy to turn a gondola ride into a full spring day out. Younger visitors can collect an activity sheet before boarding and watch for the installations below, while adults can take in the scale, artistry and remarkable setting. The Earthwork Art Installations will only be in place for a short time: as you ride up, look down! Spring has taken flight! Plan your visit and book gondola tickets from the website.

It is outdoor art on an unexpected scale, encountered from an equally unexpected vantage point. Set against the bushland of Arthurs Seat State Park, the Earthworks will offer something striking for art lovers, nature lovers, couples, families and anyone looking for a different way to experience the Mornington Peninsula this spring. The installation is part of Where Spring Takes Flight, a limited-time seasonal experience running at Arthurs Seat Eagle from 19 September to 4 October. It is included with every standard gondola ticket. Throughout the school holidays, the mountain will also come alive with a program of family entertainment, including native animal encounters, live music, face painting and more. Seasonal food and drinks from the Eagle Café, walking trails through the State Park and panoramic views

aseagle.com.au

www.peninsulakids.com.au 71

CREATING SPACES FOR FAMILY LIFE Spring into outdoor living with LivingScapes, creating beautiful, family-friendly gardens designed for life on the Mornington Peninsula. From edible and sensory gardens that encourage children to explore and connect with nature, to designer chicken coops, lawns and inviting outdoor spaces, LivingScapes creates gardens the whole family can enjoy. Their personalised designs also include fences and gates, combining functionality, safety and style. From concept to completion, the LivingScapes team creates sustainable, practical outdoor spaces where families can play, explore, grow and make lasting memories together.

• Native, Formal & Edible Gardens • Fences & Gates • Garden Lighting • Water Features, Ponds & Irrigation • Retaining Walls • Lawns & Synthetic Grass • Pergolas, Arbors & Screens • Decks, Stairs & Balustrading • Paving, Paths & Driveways • Firepits, Chimineas & Open Fireplaces • Designer Chicken Coops • Garden Sculptures • Custom Outdoor Furniture

0408 105 510 | 0410 654 533 hello@livingscapes.com.au livingscapes.com.au

livingscapes.com.au FOR EVERY SKIN AND BEAUTY NEED Located at the top end of High Street in Hastings, a beautiful, private, boutique salon awaits. Lillian Mac Skin & Beauty has a mission to provide remarkable treatments and ensure a memorable service to every one of their valued clients. Patient, accommodating beauty therapists provide impeccable, knowledgeable services to meet every need and their extensive range of beauty treatments cater to every whim. Walking through the door a serene and beautiful space welcomes you to wind down and take a moment for yourself. The luxurious treatment rooms cradle your mind, body and spirit taking you to a place of total tranquillity. Be spring-ready with fresh lashes and glowing skin. Lillian Mac are offering a full set of soft lash extensions for only $99, usually $135. For your convenience, the treatment menu can be viewed via the ‘book now’ tab on their Facebook page, but do not hesitate to call if you prefer. Gift vouchers are also available and walk-ins are most welcome. The team at Lillian Mac Skin & Beauty look forward to pampering you and making you feel fantastic this season.

Shop 1, 101 High Street, Hastings P: 5979 1511 72 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

@LillianMacDaySpa @lillianmacskinandbeauty

SUPPORTING STUDENTS WHEN SCHOOL FEELS IMPOSSIBLE After more than 20 years working in education, local teacher Sarah Fortnam-Gray recognised a growing gap in support for families experiencing school attendance challenges. In May 2026, Sarah launched ‘Gray Matters – School Engagement Support’, providing personalised support for students and families navigating school refusal, anxiety, neurodivergence and barriers to engagement. Sarah believes that when a young person stops attending school, the focus needs to move beyond attendance and towards understanding the reasons behind it. “Schools work incredibly hard to support students, but when a young person is no longer physically present, their challenges can become harder to see and they can fall through the gaps. These students are not simply choosing not to attend - they are often communicating that something has become too difficult or they are burnt out” Gray Matters supports students, families and schools to identify barriers and create practical pathways towards re-engagement.

Gray Matters School • Engagement • Support

When school feels impossible… support is available. Gray Matters School Engagement Support supports children, families and schools to understand and overcome barriers to school engagement and attendance. Sarah Gray is a teacher with more than 20 years’ experience and supports young people experiencing school refusal, anxiety, neurodiversity and school disengagement. She works collaboratively with families, schools and Allied Health to work towards positive next steps.

What parents say:

"Sarah has been an incredible support for our family. Her guidance has helped us better understand our son and given us strategies that have made a real difference at home."

Visit Our Website To Book A Free 15 Minute Call gray-matters.com.au

READY FOR AN

ADVENTURE?

gray-matters.com.au | 21 Kars St, Frankston (by appt)

ADVENTURE LOOKS GOOD ON YOU Looking for an unforgettable family day out? Enchanted Adventure is the Mornington Peninsula’s outdoor adventure park, packed with action, discovery and seriously good fun for every age. Explore an incredible line-up of attractions, from exhilarating giant tube slides and twisting hedge mazes to canopy walks, spectacular gardens and outdoor challenges. For those ready to take things to new heights, tree surfing delivers an adrenaline-filled adventure among the treetops, with courses designed for different ages and abilities. There’s plenty to fill an entire day, whether you’re racing the kids down the slides, getting spectacularly lost in a maze or simply enjoying the fresh air and beautiful surrounds. Even better, you can BYO food and make a day of it. Pack a picnic, find your perfect spot to recharge, then head straight back into the action. Big adventures, fresh air and endless ways to play, all in one incredible Mornington Peninsula destination. 55 Purves Road, Arthurs Seat 9069 3970 FB @enchantedadventure IG @enchantedadventure enchantedadventure.com.au www.peninsulakids.com.au 73

By Georgie Doherty

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE ANIMAL TEMPLATE

CREATE YOUR VERY OWN

paper weaving blanket

SNUGGLE UP WITH A WOVEN BLANKET

Create a cosy woven blanket for your sleepy animal friend! This colourful paper weaving project is a fun way to build fine motor skills, creativity and concentration while making a beautiful piece of art. Scan the QR code to download your free sleeping animal templates, then follow the steps below to weave a cosy blanket for your new friend. No printer? No worries! You can also cut out a sleeping animal from a magazine or print a photo of your own sleepy pet.

What You'll Need •A4 white paper •A4 coloured paper (or white paper to decorate) •Pencil •Ruler •Scissors •Sleeping animal printable (or a magazine picture or photo of your own pet) •Coloured cardstock (optional backing)

Step 1 – Make Your Blanket

1

Cut an A4 sheet of paper in half to create an A5 piece.

4

Using a ruler, draw vertical lines every 1.5 cm, stopping about 2 cm from the top so the strips stay attached. Now decorate your blanket with colourful patterns, stripes, dots or pictures using markers and crayons.

2 +3

Step 2 – Cut the Blanket Carefully cut along each pencil line, stopping at the top margin so your blanket stays together in one piece. Step 3 – Make Your Weaving Strips

Step 4 – Weave Your Blanket Starting at one end, weave each strip over, under, over, under through the blanket. Alternate the pattern for each new strip to create a colourful woven design.

Using another sheet of coloured paper, cut lots of 1.5 cm wide strips. If you're using white paper, decorate it first before cutting your strips.

Step 7 – Display Your Artwork Glue your finished artwork onto a piece of coloured cardstock to create a bright border, then display it somewhere special!

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Step 5 – Secure the Blanket Once you've finished weaving, turn your blanket over and use small pieces of sticky tape to secure the ends so the strips don't slide out. Step 6 – Add Your Sleeping Animal Print the sleeping animal template, carefully cut it out and glue it onto the front of your woven blanket. No printer? Cut a sleeping animal from a magazine or print a photo of your own sleepy pet instead.

74 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2026

have fun!

COLOUR ME IN FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN! WIN an MPNG prize hamper full of fun and games for the whole family valued at over $400! Email entries to info@peninsulakids.com.au or PM your artwork to facebook.com/MorningtonPeninsulaKids. Drawn on 20/11/2026. Winner notified by email. Prize must be collected from Peninsula Kids offices during office hours, 9am-5pm located at 1/15 Wallis Drive, Hastings, unless otherwise stated.

Name.......................................................................................................... .......Age..................... Email.......................................................................................................... ............... www.peninsulakids.com.au 75

Scan here to learn more or book now