Peninsula Kids Summer 2020/21

ENINSULA KID P S LOVING FAMILY LIFE ON THE PENINSULA

SUMMER 2020/21

FREE

Seven tips for choosing kids’ vitamins

WHERE

TO HAVE as m t s i hr at

C

YOUR

BABY

THE� BAYS SELF FUNDED

No health insurance? No problem

2 NIGHT STAY FROM $4,500* YOUR EXPERIENCE INCLUDES:

OBSTETRICIANS:

• All care provided by our award winning maternity team

• Dr Kelly Griffin 03 5970 5353

• Accommodation in a private room

• Dr Andrew Griffiths 03 5976 5257

• State of the art delivery suites with private deep baths

• Dr Keith How 03 5976 6630

• A la carte restaurant quality meals made fresh to order and delivered at your preferred time • Additional nights optional at $500 per night

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

• Dr Sarah Roberts 03 5970 5353 • Dr Amy Swanson 03 5970 5353

EXPERIENCE THE BAYS DIFFERENCE:

To have your baby at The Bays you must be under the care of one of our Obstetricians.

For a detailed quote, please contact our administration team at The Bays Hospital: P (03) 5975 2009

E reception@thebays.com.au

* Price excludes special care nursery admission, additional operating theatre/ caesarean related fees, obstetrician fees, paediatrician fees, anaesthetists fees, diagnostic charges and other hospital related expenses. Duration of stay commences from time of arrival and is 48 hours from arrival to the hospital. Visit our website for up to date information. Prices are current as at 12 August 2020.

*OPEN EVERYDAY OVER SUMMER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 19 December 27 January 2021 *Pony rides (100m) $5 *Horse rides (200m) $10

STORYTIME

Daily at 11am & 3pm. Let your child be a star as they join with the animals to tell a popular children’s animal story.

FREE FAMILY CHRISTMAS PHOTO From 1st – 24th Dec on our Christmas displays (Traditional or a Festive theme)

*Availability subject to Covid restrictions

Many animals for “hands on” experiences Additional outdoor patting areas Rustic Farm Setting Playground Free gas BBQs (BYO food) Outdoor picnic areas

490 Stumpy Gully Rd Balnarring www.rhsfarm.com.au • Phone 5983 1691 • Open 10am - 5pm

*Closed Xmas day & on Thursdays & Fridays outside of school holidays Due to Covid regulations please prebook tickets on line www.peninsulakids.com.au

3

Editor

Cover Photo Model: Ella Busuttil Location: Mt Martha Beach South Dress: Cracked Soda Ice-Cream: Chill Gelato Mt Martha Photographer: Danielle B Photography daniellebphotography.com.au

Melissa McCullough

Aloha from the summer edition of Peninsula Kids magazine!

While we are in the midst of adjusting to our ‘usual’ ways of living life post-pandemic, which I am totally excited about, I also have a bit of a heavy heart for what was over the last nine months.

When considering this letter to the readers I found myself reminiscing about my time at home in lockdown and a smile appeared across my face. Sure, there was a fair amount of frustration from being grounded, and the home-schooling, and the kids turning into little slugs lacking motivation to leave the house.

If I think hard, I can remember a specific small incident or two – but just barely.

Editor and Publisher Melissa McCullough melissa@mpnews.com.au Design Sam Loverso sam@mpnews.com.au Advertising Miriam Doe 0421 085 974 miriam@mpnews.com.au

Interestingly, the stand-out memories are the ones of bike rides, long walks in the nearby nature reserve, pasta-making, craftdoing, conversations, and smiles.

General Enquiries info@peninsulakids.com.au

Halo effect is the tendency for positive impressions of a person, company, brand or product in one area to positively influence one's opinion or feelings in other areas.

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.

As with childbirth and thinking, “I’m never doing that again!”, you do. Because the joy of holding that little bundle eradicates or subdues the recollection of the pain.

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.

You see, the end justifies the means.

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.

"No medicine cures what happiness cannot."

- Gabriel García Márquez

Peninsula Kids is produced quarterly.

15,000 copies distributed between Mordialloc and Portsea.

Registered address: 63 Watt Road, Mornington 3931

Advertising

Miriam Doe

From the team at MPK, we truly hope you have a wonderful summer, a very Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year surrounded by the family and friends that we’ve all yearned for so many times this year. Grab them. Hold them. And smile.

Photo Danielle B Photography Christmas mini session.

www.facebook.com/MorningtonPeninsulaKids www.instagram.com/mornpenkids

Proudly published by

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

Design

Sam Loverso

We’re looking forward to seeing our families again.

We’re looking forward to being a part of your weekly routines.

We’re looking forward to celebrating your child’s achievements.

We’re looking forward to teaching your children how to be safe in the water.

Kingswim has been teaching little ones to swim for over 30 years, and we’re looking forward to keeping Australia swimming.

kingswim.com.au Frankston • Langwarrin • Mornington www.peninsulakids.com.au

5

ROSEBUD SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM

MORNINGTON SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM

11th -12th Jan 2021 @ Olympic Park Rosebud

14th-15th Jan 2021 @ Alexandra Park Mornington

Contact Al Burge 0468 540 872 ABurge@cricketvictoria.com.au

Contact Al Burge 0468 540 872 ABurge@cricketvictoria.com.au

$50pp: 9am - 12pm

$50pp: 9am - 12pm

Participants receive a Backpack, Ball & Drink Bottle

Participants receive a Backpack, Ball & Drink Bottle

6

Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

Contents

24

18

26

10

Spotlight 10 Danger Force Junior journalist, Kennedy, has a chat with a few of the new recruits on Nickelodeon's new spin-off show from Henry Danger.

30

14 Water Safety Tips to help keep children safe in and around water.

16 Post-Pandemic Parenting in the Slow Lane Are you jumping right back in to the prepandemic action-packed, hectic lifestyle?

18 The Lost World of Bayside Fossils Ben Francischelli is researching Australia's most important urban fossil site, and it's found right here in Melbourne.

24 Kids Who Lie How schools are raising young people addicted to avoiding blame.

26 Aussie Families Closer Than Ever Amid Covid-19 The New Family Norm Report explores the impact and strength of the Australian family unit in the face of COVID-19.

30 How to Choose a Bank Account For Your Child Focusing on financial literacy at home can help kids learn how to save money, make smart financial decisions, and grow into financially savvy adults.

22 Crisis Heroes A platform that is set to make a huge difference to people living in isolation. www.peninsulakids.com.au

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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

DANIELLE BUSUTTIL

daniellebphotography.com.au

Pg18&42

ERICA LOUISE

kidtownmelbourne.com

Pg22

Contents Local (and not so)

82 Health

34 Moonlit Sanctuary

78 Tweens First Period

36 Acro Kids

80 12 Before 12

38 The Art of Wellbeing

82 7 Tips for Choosing Kids' Vitamins

Celebrate

42 The Melbourne Transformers

84 Managing Kids' Hayfever Allergies 86 Ask the Experts

Pregnancy & Baby

Education

88 Where to Have Your Baby

60 Fostering self-expression, imagination and original ideas through creative arts

Creative

63 Focus on Education

Recipes

72 'Simply Swap' Recipes with Linda Martinucci

53 SPECIAL SUMMER FEATURE

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

Pg30

JO & CARL VIOLETA

www.violetafinance.com.au

47 Summer Days to Celebrate

56 Starting Primary School: Managing Anxiety

OLIVIA WILSON

www.the wilsonsofoz.com

Pg56

92 Crying Babies

96 Drawing Tips for Budding Illustrators 97 Crayon Shaving Suncatchers

KIM NORTON

www.rainbowlighttherapies.com.au

Pg72

98 Arty Pants Mobile Ceramic Painting

In Every

Issue

44 Party Planning 48 Things We Love 70 Book Reviews 99 Colouring Competition

LINDA MARTINUCCI

www.simplyswapfoods.com.au

Pg92

YVETTE O’DOWD

www.facebook.com/groups/ SouthernNaturalParentingNetwork

Empowering Girls We educate, empower and nurture the girls of today to be the leaders of tomorrow.

Tailored for girls.

Individualised learning.

STEM, Music, Dance, Sport.

Every girl matters.

Every voice is heard.

Join our Head of Junior School for an online conversation REGISTER www.mentonegirls.vic.edu.au www.peninsulakids.com.au

9

with...

By Kennedy McCullough

N

ickelodeon is expanding the world of Henry Danger, the highly popular kids’ series, with the launch of Danger Force, a brand-new original live-action spinoff.

The new series stars two of the most beloved characters from Henry Danger, Ray/Captain Man (Cooper Barnes) and Schwoz (Michael D. Cohen), and introduces four new superheroes-in-training, Chapa (Havan Flores), Miles (Terrence Little Gardenhigh), Mika (Dana Heath) and Bose (Luca Luhan).

The four teens are recruited to attend Swellview Academy for the Gifted (SW.A.G. for short), a school conceived by Captain Man and brought to life by Schwoz, after having been accidentally mutated in the fight to save Swellview. While there, the kids must learn to harness their frequently troublesome and sometimes uncontrollable superpowers as they begin to fight crime. Despite the dangerous circumstances of their new lives, the superheroes must keep their real identities a secret from their friends, families and the villains who are out to destroy them.

Peninsula Kids junior journalist, Kennedy, had the pleasure of chatting with a couple of the new recruits! continued next page...

10 Peninsula PeninsulaKids Kids––Summer Summer2020/21 2020/21

www.peninsulakids.com.au www.peninsulakids.com.au 11

1.

How old are you?

Havan: 13. Dana: I’m 14 years old.

2.

Have you always been an actor? When did you first start?

Havan: No, I was an athlete first. I started tumbling and competing in cheer at the age of six.

Dana: I started acting in my school’s musical theatre when I was in second grade and I got my first acting job when I was nine.

3.

What did you love about being in the process of filming?

Havan: Being able to bring life to a character, putting my own spin on the script.

Dana: I love how everything comes together.

4.

Are you anything like the character you play in real life?

Havan: Yes, we are very similar. I’m athletic, intense and I don’t goof around a lot.

Dana: Yes, I’d like to think that Mika and I have a lot in common, like, we’re both caring, smart and passionate about what we do.

5.

Were you a fan of Henry Danger?

Havan: My family doesn't watch TV very much but I love it now.

Dana: Yeah I used to watch the show all the time when I was younger!

6. How is school going while filming? Is it hard to keep up with what’s happening?

Havan: Its fine. I've been in home-school and multiple sports and teams most of my life so it's not much different.

Dana: W ell I’m in high school now so it’s a little harder than when we first started filming but we have amazing set teachers that help us stay on track and understand anything we may be struggling with.

7. What’s it like working with the Captain Man and Schwoz?

Are they super funny?

Havan: They are funny, it’s like anything else you have to be part of the team and work together if you want to be great.

Dana: It’s amazing! They’re so funny! Their chemistry and how they play off each other is so fun to watch but I also learn a lot from them too!

8.

What are the gadgets on set like?

Havan: Very cool, it’s one of the best things to see what all the smart people in wardrobe and props come up with.

9. Did you know the other Danger Force kids before being cast on the show?

Havan: No. Dana: I only knew Terrance before we were cast. We met at a studio that we both did voice over jobs at and hit it off immediately.

Fun fact: we always thought we should play sister and brother on a show and now here we are!

10.

Did you help come up with ideas for your character?

Havan: N ot really, it’s a new show and right now we are learning who our characters are.

Dana: I try to keep Mika moving even if it’s just her hands because I see her as a bit high strung and also sometimes I get to help pick out her clothes.

11. Is it hard for your character to keep their identity secret?

Did your character want to tell their parents?

Havan: I don’t have parents on the show so it’s not hard at all. Haha!

Dana: Not really, Mika is pretty good with secrets like that.

12.

How did you find out your hidden power?

Havan: I got really mad on the first episode and zapped someone by accident.

Dana: Chris Nowak, the creator, told me when we were at the Henry Danger wrap party! I was so excited!

13. Would you ever want to change your power? If so, what power would you prefer?

Havan: N o, I love my power, it’s the best one. If I had to though it would be shape shifting.

Dana: No, I think her power is perfect for her although I think it would be fun for her to be able to read minds.

14.

Any words of advice for kids trying to be the best they can be?

Havan: B E YOU! Don’t try to change to be what you think other people want. Educate yourself, read, don’t follow the crowd or social media. Follow your dreams and don’t ever give up.

Dana: Try your hardest to stay positive. No one is perfect so forgive yourself and your imperfections. Every moment is a new chance to be the best you, you can be! Find the good in things and if you can’t find it then be it!

Dana: The attention to detail on every weapon is amazing!

Havan Flores plays: Chapa Volt

12 Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

Dana Heath plays: Mika Shoutout

www.peninsulakids.com.au

13

B

eing around water is part of everyday life in Australia, whether it be at the beach, backyard pools and spas, rivers and creeks, public swimming pools or dams on farms. However, did you know that drowning is one of the major causes of unintentional death for Australian children under 5 years of age?

Toddlers can drown in as little as a few centimetres of water – this means that objects including buckets, inflatable/toddler wading pools, backyard ponds, eskies with melted ice and even pets drinking bowls can all pose a potential drowning hazard.

DROWNING PREVENTION To help keep children safe in and around water, there are four important steps you can follow; to ensure maximum safety, it’s important that all of these steps are used together.

1. Supervise Active adult supervision of children is essential to reduce the risk of drowning. For toddlers, this mean’s having an adult within arm’s reach at all times when they are in or around water, while for older children it is important that there is an adult within the water area who is ready to enter the water in an emergency.

When there are a lot of adults around (e.g. at a BBQ or pool party) it can be easy to assume that someone else is watching the kids when, in fact, nobody is. That’s why it’s a good idea to have designated adult supervisors whose role it is to actively supervise the kids in and around water. This role can be shared throughout the day so that everyone gets a chance to relax and enjoy themselves.

2. Restrict Access Restricting children’s access to water can include placing a barrier around the body of water (e.g. a pool or spa barrier) or placing the barrier around a child’s environment (e.g. creating a fenced safe play area on a farm that is away from water hazards like dams and animal drinking troughs).

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

Children are crafty and will try their best to find a way to get over, under or through barriers, so it’s important to never rely on barriers on their own to keep children away from water.

3. Water Awareness Water awareness and learn-to-swim classes can assist in helping children to become familiar with water, teaching them about water safety, and learning how to swim.

4. CPR/First Aid Knowledge Having the skills to respond in an emergency situation can mean the difference between life and death. Kidsafe Victoria encourages all parents and carers to enrol in a CPR/first aid course and to update their skills regularly. Hopefully they are skills that you will never have to use, however undertaking a course will assist in ensuring you are equipped to respond if an emergency does arise. It is also a good idea to place a CPR chart in your pool or spa area for easy reference.

www.kidsafevic.com.au/water-safety

Discover what makes John Paul College a place to learn, grow and thrive.

Visit our website for tour opportunities and information.

We are now accepting enrolments for 2023.

Places are still available for Year 7, 2022.

Bus service available to Carrum, Bonbeach, Chelsea, Chelsea Heights, Patterson Lakes and Sandhurst.

For tour opportunities visit jpc.vic.edu.au

www.peninsulakids.com.au

15

Post-pandemic

W

e’re hurtling toward the end of this challenging year that I’m optimistically looking forward to farewelling. I’m taking a moment to evaluate postpandemic parenting.

In a world that has previously lauded a hectic, action-packed lifestyle, I’m proposing busyness should not be a badge of honour. For those who have had the pause, I’m wondering if you’re like me and keen to make lasting changes to continue parenting in the slow lane instead? Not only does too much, too often too soon have a detrimental impact on our wellbeing, but that of any children in the house.

It is well documented that overloading and pushing ourselves and our children is harmful. Did you know there’s a noticeable shift in our generation of children that are gradually moving away from an internal toward external locus of control? That is, they’re focussing more on external methods to find happiness instead of within. They’re so overstimulated, entertained and surrounded by screens and toys, they’re losing the ability to self-regulate, self-soothe and find contentment for themselves. No wonder the rise in anxiousness, depression and narcissism.

2020 sure has given us all a shaken-not-stirred approach to what is important such as health, certainty for the future and the safety of close relationships. Many of my counselling clients report it has forced decisions for positive changes previously contemplated for “one day”.

Here’s our chance to intentionally step back, evaluate and choose a cruiser, joyful path moving forward that features emotional attentiveness and a firm foundation of love that launches children to success . Ask yourself these questions about life before the pandemic: How was your pre-pandemic schedule? Could you spontaneously fit in a drink and a play with the neighbours or did they need to wait three weeks? Did you allow time in your weekday either with children after school with nil commitments? I mean, nothing.

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

By Joanne Wilson

Did you worry your children won’t be the best versions of themselves if they’re not involved in all the wonderful activities on offer? What if they miss out on finding their true gift? What if their friends learn new skills that yours don’t?

What if…?

Did you approach tasks one at a time? I know us females pride ourselves on this one but to make it all happen, parents are “Milkshake Multitasking” as neuroscientist, Dr Caroline Leaf calls it. She says we can shift between different tasks in rapid succession but it’s impossible to multitask. This results in neurochemical chaos and brain damage. As we’re frantically switching between that email to pay the footy and dance fees, checking Instagram and listening to our child read; there’s nothing of quality occurring and we’re easily confused and exhausted.

Did you allow “margin”? It’s my favourite word that signifies the parking rest stops alongside your driving lane.

It’s regularly pausing alongside your highway of life for attentive conversations, playing on the floor, drawing with chalk on the driveway, following a butterfly and running bare feet outside. Margin can be the intentional one-onone time with a child without guilt and time pressure. It’s the allocated distance between you and your to-do list on the other jam-packed lane that’s lined with endless tasks.

Here’s how we create the self-discipline for lasting change: Self-compassionately find hobbies that feature a slow-paced meditative element: Do you recall those activities you would lose yourself in as a child? Reading, painting, lying in the grass studying clouds or ants? Try a slow-paced exercise that doesn’t focus on achievement but purely enjoyment such as gardening, hiking, cycling.

Check your surround sound: Are your peers frantic-paced workaholics that boast work-hard/play-hard lifestyles where their children are lost along the way? Technology obsessed strung-out friends are likely going to fuel your fasttracked freeway to Facebook envy.

Daily quarantine quiet: Brain fMRI’s display in real-time how we strengthen whatever neural pathways we do more of. Brain dendrites and neurons reinforce your “highways” based on your choices of a busy schedule that can result in frustration and anger. Let’s use the forced pandemic pause and to permanently choose daily “brain time out” without screens to breathe, meditate or pray that benefits both you and your children to regularly enjoy the stability of peace and calm.

Say NO: I’m the first to admit to being a YES woman both in my career and personally. The pandemic has taught me that I’m still loved even when I don’t attend everything and enjoy time out without the guilt. The land of opportunities can wait sometimes!

Little Johnny and Juanita are more likely to become masters of their destiny if we allow them the breadth to do so. We can certainly nurture their talents, but let’s not scrawl over their childhood with busyness in the process!

I don’t want a medallion of muddled madness, but a cordon of courage. It will signify we bravely didn’t scribble chaos in our blank margins of life that encouraged the children to inner resourcefulness to face life’s challenges resulting in their innovation and prosperity.

Joanne Wilson is the Relationship Rejuvenator and author of Renovate Your Relationship – All The DIY Tools For Your Most Important Project ($29.99). She is a neuropsychotherapist inspiring the community with thriving and dynamic relationships that impact generations for mental well-being.

Find out more at www.relationshiprejuvenator.com

www.peninsulakids.com.au

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The Lost World of Bayside Fossils

By Erica Louise

P

rehistoric finds of the fossil kind are discovered on every continent, although you might not think of Melbourne Bayside as a significant site for palaeontology research.

That's why you need to hear about Ben Francischelli's work. Ben is researching Australia's most important urban fossil site, and it's found right here in Melbourne.

Together with his team of citizen scientists and work colleagues, Ben has uncovered an extraordinary collection of prehistoric fossils from Beaumaris.

Specimens such as sharks, whales and other sea creature fossils dating back some five million years.

Ben took some time out of his lockdown schedule to chat with us about his exciting Lost World of Bayside Fossils project that is sure to excite every member in your family. continued next page...

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

ST. MACARTAN’S

PARISH PRIMARY SCHOOL

Applications for prep 2021 NOW OPEN Application forms can be downloaded from the school website. Due to current social isolation, enrolment forms can also be posted if necessary.

For all enquiries, please contact enrolment officer, Penni Wilton on 5979 9200 or email: office@smmornington.catholic.edu.au

VIRTUAL TOUR

www.smmornington.catholic.edu.au www.peninsulakids.com.au

19

Q. Hi Ben, when did you begin your path into palaeontology begin?

Q. Can you tell us about the discoveries you have uncovered in Bayside Melbourne?

My path into palaeontology was not conventional. It all started when I was four years old when I was given a book about life before man.

As I grew older, I became interested in whales. I remember a time when I asked my school teacher "How big is the biggest whale" and he said "Ben, I want you to run down to the end of the basketball court and all the way back again. That's the size of the blue whale" I'll never forget that. After year 12, I went to university and studied environmental science, although I didn't like it very much. I was more fixated on the living world, biology and evolution.

Every single dive is yielding material that has some kind of scientific importance. Not just important in Bayside, not just in Melbourne but in Australian palaeo history as a whole.

On a whim, when I was 19 years old, I rode my bike down to Beaumaris after hearing whispers there were fossils to be found there.

Lo-and-behold, there were fossils scattered everywhere.

After that, I would travel down to Beaumaris as often as possible.

I started finding bones, shark teeth and fragments of seal skulls. After six months, I accumulated quite a collection and presented my finds to Senior Curator of Vertebrate Palaeontology Dr. Erich M.G. Fitzgerald at Museum Victoria. He was taken aback by what I had found and asked if I'd like to volunteer at the museum. All the curators and collection managers at the museum start as volunteers in order to get that in-depth knowledge.

I would go to the museum on a Friday every single week from 9 am to 7 pm, go through the drawers, speak to the other curators and absorb as much information as possible.

After finishing my degree, focussing on geology and biology, there was a job going as a Vertebrate Palaeontologist Preparator at the museum.

This was the first time a job had come up in this field for a long time.

Q. Is it difficult to find work as a Palaeontologist?

Yes, it is. My boss Dr. Erich M.G. Fitzgerald was the first whale palaeontologist in Australia, ever. He was recently quoted in a newspaper, saying: "It is harder to become a palaeontologist than an astronaut in Australia."

I am very lucky to do this job, I absolutely adore it. To find these amazing specimens that have never been found before, and to work with some great people, is incredibly exciting.

I do have to constantly apply for funding, which is the issue that comes with science. Rejection is a big part of it. If the funding does not come, the Lost World of Bayside Fossils work cannot continue, and applying for funding can take a huge amount of time.

Q. What equipment do you need to find fossils?

I free dive and walk on the seafloor. The most important tools we need to find specimens are our eyes - in the water and on the beaches.

I work with a team of people and the most valuable resources we have are volunteers looking for this material. When I started working on the Lost World of Bayside Fossils project, there were volunteers already involved in the work, finding fossils and donating to the museum. Some have been doing so for thirty years.

The team is finding fossils in water between 0.25 and 5 metres in depth, although it takes a special eye to find these fossils because they're covered in algae. You must know the texture of whale bones or what the elements of a skull look like. Having that internal knowledge is what's most useful.

Q. Why are the fossil sites in Bayside Melbourne so unique?

If you think of any other fossil site around the world, palaeontologists are using hammers and chisels. You don't need that for Bayside.

This material erodes out naturally from the bottom of the seafloor.

Q. Tell us about some of your significant fossil finds in Bayside Melbourne Just yesterday a paper was released documenting the seals of Beaumaris. Every single one of the seal fossils that we have found has been of significant importance.

What makes Beaumaris and Bayside unique is that it is an evolutionary melting pot for several unique animal lineages. This is a hub of history and helps us understand the evolution of whales. Bayside is the only place on the continent that you can find specimens of the largest bird that ever took to the sky - the "Pelagornis" with its bizarre pseudo-teeth.

We found evidence of dugongs, of giant lumbering marsupials the size of cows and the predatory macroraptorial sperm whales.

Then there is the Megladon, the same size as a humpback whale, with 250 teeth, some the size of your hand! We've got evidence here of two top predators in an environment that we don't see today - a bizarre ecological niche that has been preserved and not seen anywhere else in Australia. We can utilise these fossils to better understand their evolutionary origin.

Q. How has COVID-19 affected your work?

This is one of the most unique fossil sites in all of Australia because it preserves so much diversity that we didn't think was possible.

COVID-19 has made things more difficult, not just for palaeontology, but for all science as a whole. We don't quite know what will happen in 2021. Also, my favourite thing to do is to give talks and I haven't been able to do any this year.

Part of the team found an interesting fossil in March 2020, the upper jaw of a beaked whale. The matching segment of this specimen was found in 1977 and was the oldest evidence of beaked whales in Australia.

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

Q. What is your favourite fossil find?

Q. Will we be able see some of your work?

My favourite fossil, although not one that I found, is the predatory macroraptorial sperm whale tooth that was found by a colleague on the beach in Beaumaris in 2016. This is the youngest evidence of these killer sperm whales on the planet. For me, the Megladon tooth that I found in 2018 was pretty special because they are very rare.

We managed to find a new site in Bayside thanks to our citizen scientist team. While in the water I found a dense horseshoe-like bone sticking out. I lifted it out of the sand only to discover it to be a tooth the size of my hand.

Our hope is that when we can, and when it is safe to do so, we will hold an exhibition of the fossil specimens that we have found, and we will be able to show what we've been up to.

Q. Tell us about the first fossil you found.

It was a specimen that I found in 2010, representing part of a skull of an ancient group of seals that no longer exist today. These seals were much, much smaller than those you would find today.

Q. At what locatins have you conducted studies other than Bayside?

In 2017-2018 we led several expeditions down to the Surf Coast Jan Juc, Torquay and Bells Beach. We had a lot of success. We found evidence of animals dating back 25 million years with bits of skulls and articulated pieces. These specimens re-write what we understand of the evolution of these animals.

Q. If you could travel anywhere in the world to look for fossils, where would it be?

If I could visit any geological formation in the world, it would be the Pisco Formation in Peru. It's a giant desert that dates back around nine million years and all you do to find things is look for a blip in the sand.

Usually, when you find a blip you'll find a skull. It's where they found the very first specimen of macro-raptorial sperm whale.

You can follow Ben’s journey on Instagram @a_fools_experiment where you will also find links to his exciting YouTube channel.

Erica hails from the United Kingdom, and has been living in Australia for 15 years. She has two sons 7 & 12 years. She writes, edits and runs the social media pages for KidTown Melbourne, a website showcasing all the fun things to do with kids in Melbourne. www.kidtownmelbourne.com

UR CO M E & V IS IT O !

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Q. What do you think of the Jurassic Park and Jurassic World franchise?

I grew up with Jurassic Park. We all love Jurassic Park and thought it was the greatest movie of all time. Then Jurassic World came around. We were all very excited to see it. A group of us, a number of palaeontologists, booked to watch it at IMAX, and well.. we all completely hated it! It was so inaccurate. We would look at it and say "Who would design a Pterosaur like that"; it looked more like a winged bat than anything. There were so many inconsistencies; that was the most frustrating thing. The story was fine but it was how these animals were portrayed. I was sitting next to one of my colleagues who works with Sauropods and, well, I thought he was going to throw his popcorn at the screen.

The original Jurassic Park in 1993 opened up an entire new world of palaeontology, whereas the newest films are not focussing on the palaeontology; they're more about the shock factor."

Why do you have to make a new dinosaur? There are so many interesting dinosaurs that are already out there like the Therizinosaurus with its huge scythe-like fingers that are more than a metre in length or the Physeter, the largest toothed predator.

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21

I

t’s not often that I am truly moved at the creation of an online platform. However when I came across Crisis Heroes, I really was blown away. This was a platform that is set to make a huge difference to people living in isolation across Melbourne and the rest of the world. Immediately I wanted to help spread the word!

I signed up about a month ago and was blown away at all the offers of assistance and I hope you read this and feel empowered to do the same.

Mark Acheson – Crisis Heroes

Hi Mark! Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and the team behind Crisis Heroes.

I’m a journalist, come marketer, come stranded Melburnian! I moved here a few months ago from Tasmania to be closer to my other Crisis Heroes co-founders Matthew Platts and Nicolas Hoban. Matt is our software engineer and Nic our designer and legal expert, being a former lawyer!

When and how did the light bulb moment come about? Have you always been a helpful soul?

The light bulb moment came when Matt and I were forced to cut our American travels short in March this year and come back to Australia to self-isolate. I was actually on my way to work and live in the UK, a lifelong ambition of mine. I could have chosen to bury myself in my Xbox, but instead Matt and I came up with the idea of Crisis Heroes.

We had our friends and family to rally around us whilst we self-isolated, but we thought, "What about people who don’t have these networks?"

This is where Crisis Heroes was born, to help people who are feeling isolated or are struggling in light of Covid.

I’ve always tried to look out for the interest of others. I think we can make the world a happier place if we have one another’s backs. Life is hard enough as it is, without having people doing the wrong thing.

What is the main aim of Crisis Heroes and what would you say to encourage people to get signed up?

The main aim of Crisis Heroes is to empower everyday individuals to request or lend a hand. We did a quick market analysis and couldn’t find a free platform for trading goods and services.

To anyone sitting on the fence as to seeking help, I say this, the 22

Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

chances are that you’ve supported someone in a time of need or difficulty, and you didn’t judge them for it. Reverse that sentiment. Never be too proud to reach out for help. There are hundreds of people waiting to give you a hand, be it a friendly chat or running errands.

Recently, Crisis Heroes has joined forces with Cyber Clinic, an online mental health clinic providing face-to-face consultations, using a data-driven algorithm to match its users to the right mental health practitioners. Whilst our users are given the appropriate mental health resources to use should they need them, we wanted to take this a step further by ensuring they have access to trained professionals.

There’s a misconception that people can only see a psychologist in person, but Cyber Clinic is bridging that gap between patient and professional.

Loneliness has been a huge issue for many people during the pandemic, was this something you had in mind when coming up with the idea? Do you think Crisis Heroes is helping ease loneliness for people?

Yes, yes it was. Originally the platform was designed for people to run errands or trade services, but we then saw the need to implement a chat function. This chat function has seen the biggest uptake on our platform.

It goes to show, along with national statistics, that people are struggling with the Covid-19 restrictions and the impacts of isolation.

I know that Crisis Heroes can be found in a few countries already, but what are the long term plans for spreading the love even further? How will this look post pandemic?

It doesn’t stop post-pandemic. We want to see Crisis Heroes reach every corner of the globe and help as many people as possible. What is great to see is the sense of fulfilment a person gets when they help someone else on our platform. They’ve perhaps never had the opportunity or the resources to help someone before. When they do, they feel overwhelmed with happiness. Not to forget the person who has received help. We had one woman in Melbourne say that she connected with a kind stranger on Crisis Heroes and their conversations were the reason she got out of bed of a morning. That’s huge!

Our partnership with Cyber Clinic is to let people know that there’s professional help available online, right now.

I’ve signed, and I was amazed at all the wonderful offers of help and support! It really does make your heart feel full. How does it feel to have created this wonderful community?

Whether it’s offering to walk the dog, grab essentials, or just be available for a muchneeded chat, you can utilise this platform to make someone’s day and perhaps and more crucially, save someone’s life!

I feel very humbled to be in a position to help others. This wouldn’t have been possible without my amazing cofounders and the support of my friends and family. I just choose to keep this simple mantra: do good.

If you’re a kind soul and would like to sign up and offer your support to someone doing it tough right now, head to Crisis Heroes You can also follow the Crisis Heroes journey on Facebook and Instgram.

Olivia is a thirty-something British mum of two living in Melbourne.

Having grown up with a father in the army and being moved all over the world, she is a lifelong 'expat', and thoroughly enjoys the adventures that come with a fairly nomadic life overseas. Follow her adventures as a 'modern day parent far from home', and share her family's exploration of Australia at www.thewilsonsofoz.com On Instagram @the_wilsons_of_oz and on Facebook @thewilsonsofoz

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23

KIDS WHO

HOW SCHOOLS ARE RAISING YOUNG PEOPLE ADDICTED TO AVOIDING BLAME 24

Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

By Adam Voigt

P

ractice makes perfect, or so they tell us. And so, it astounds and troubles me to my core that we continue to raise kids in homes and schools where the art of lying is something that’s practised so heavily that our children master it by the time that they reach adulthood.

Only the lawyers are the winners As adults, we either make our dishonesty our one-wood and perhaps enter a political career – did I just say that? – or we look to outsource our mistruths to the telling of a professional articulator of our own carefully painted version of events when we find ourselves in a pickle.

We call these people lawyers.

As they also say when two good people come together in court to sort a matter of conflict that could be done through a little bit of empathy, some civil discourse and perhaps a cup of tea – only the lawyers are the winners.

But perhaps, you’ve found yourself describing your own child as a “bush lawyer” on occasion as you asked her/him to explain who drew with texta on the lounge room wall.

Perhaps you’ve even been gobsmacked at the elaborate tale even the youngest child can pull together at a moment’s notice to absolve themselves of responsibility. My sister did it, an alien did it, my hand slipped, it was a ghost or perhaps the classic “I don’t know. I was playing in my room.”

It just isn’t useful to deploy systems in our homes and schools whereby kids actively resist our attempts to help them solve problems.

And this is exactly what we compel them to do when we force them into mitigating the risk of a potential negative outcome upon themselves, such as a detention, a grounding, a stern lecture or a school suspension.

Learning to be better liars Further, not only do we actively encourage lying in these circumstances, but we foster a sophistication in untruthfulness that is almost impossible to compete with.

When kids learn that their bare-faced lies are more palatable to the adult in the room, they learn also to add some window dressing to the lies to improve their impact.

By now, we’ve begun to encourage the very proficiency of denial, exaggeration, obfuscation, minimisation, lies by omission and distraction into drama that makes social problem solving close to impossible.

A teacher not a judge But there is a better way. When our kids do the wrong thing, the feeling they get is shame. It’s not a nice feeling but, like all emotions, it has a purpose. Shame is the teacher. It teaches us when we’ve done the right thing and the wrong thing. It ignites our conscience and all parents want to raise kids with a conscience.

What we need to do is raise kids who see the sting of shame as a signal to act. We need them to have a moment where the self-talk is more akin to “Oops. I’ve messed up. I’d better fix that” as opposed to “Oops. I’ve messed up. How do I get out of this?”. This changes the role of parents and teachers fundamentally when wrongdoing occurs.

Instead of positioning yourself as a judge whose role it is to declare a penalty based on the brief of evidence available, choose to be a teacher of how to respond to screwing up. After all, our homes and schools are not judicial systems; they are systems of love and learning.

Get a gist of what’s happened, but instead of laboring the finer points of the story, move on to the harm that’s been caused and how we’re going to work together to fix or repair that.

The harm might be a scribble on a wall or the disappointment of a parent, but even our toddlers can actively do something about that to make it at least partially better. They can act.

In that act, they take responsibility. It’s much better that they practise that than it is to fabricate alternate realities of the past. And after that fact, we can thank or congratulate them, which both flips a negative quickly into a positive and allows your child to walk away from the shame.

And that’s a good thing.

No kid needs to carry shame around with them. Let it do its job as a teacher and then let our kids experience the world armed with its powerful life lessons.

Adam Voigt is a former successful School Principal and system leader who is now the Founder & CEO of Real Schools. Adam is also the author of ‘Restoring Teaching’, a groundbreaking book aimed at restoring esteem for the role of educators through establishing strong, productive and restorative cultures around Australia’s schools.

Find out more about Adam’s work or order ‘Restoring Teaching’ by visiting www.realschools.com.au

Our kids have immense creativity and raising them in systems where they get to apply it to skirt around responsibility isn’t something that most parents want to do. We just haven’t found a better way.

www.peninsulakids.com.au

25

Closer than ever

N

ew research reveals that the Australian family unit is stronger than ever in the face of COVID-19 and social isolation, with close to nine in 10 (87.7%) finding new ways to connect and make the best of this challenging period.

The New Family Norm Report, commissioned by Real Insurance, explores the impact, and strength of the Australian family unit in the face of COVID-19, along with the likely lasting effects of this unprecedented health crisis.

With a majority of Australians saying the pandemic has brought their family closer together (80.3%), over half (54.4%) have found that the dynamics within the family unit have changed. Parents have become dynamic duos, stepping up teamwork to manage (85.0%), with many reporting that their children have also taken on new roles and responsibilities (79.2%).

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

The research, which surveyed over 5,000 Australian parents, indicates the way in which families spend time together has also changed. While the majority of parents (70.9%) agree that their children’s screen time has increased ‘somewhat’ during the pandemic, many have noted that the way they spend ‘family time’ is shifting. Nearly half said they have started cooking and eating together more often (47.2%), watching more movies and TV shows together (46.7%) and even playing more games and completing puzzles together (35.8%).

Psychologist, Sabina Read, says that now is an opportune time to reflect on what we want more of in our relationships, our careers and our families.

Although families are bonding in new ways and are happier than they’ve ever been, there have been a number of stressors placed on them. Almost 60 per cent (58.9%) say them financial insecurity and uncertainty about the future has placed strains on their relationships. This isn’t necessarily surprising given 38.8 per cent have experienced some sort of negative impact in their working lives, such as reduced hours and income, and even losing work altogether. Single parent families have also beared the brunt, with 78.7 per cent agreeing it’s been much tougher for them.

“For many Aussie families, life was becoming busier and the oftenfrenzied pace was showing few signs of abating, until COVID-19 hit. Although many of us are feeling understandably uncertain, it is a welcome finding that the majority of families feel the pandemic has brought them closer together,” Ms Read said.

“We should use this time to initiate conversations about what is working well and what we would like to change. Asking each other what we have learnt about ourselves is a great place to start the process of embedding useful and adaptive long-term changes. continued next page... www.peninsulakids.com.au

27

“

With enforced changes to our daily routines, and more time to reflect, it’s a positive shift to see many mums and dads taking on new roles, and perhaps communicating more with each other about how they would like to contribute to the family unit in different ways.

A majority of parents with school-age children have had to home school their children at some point during the pandemic (88%), which is still the case for many parents in Victoria, and even across New South Wales.

And although challenging, many parents have found it to be manageable (50.0%), with a smaller proportion of just under a quarter finding it ‘reasonably hard’ (23.2%) and an even smaller number saying it has been ‘very stressful’ (13.5%).

The home schooling period could have an impact beyond the education itself, with 30.7 per cent of parents feeling that COVID-19 will leave a lasting long-term impact on their children’s education, and the ability to get into university or certain jobs. Parents feel that it has created gaps in their knowledge (47.0%), lack of key skill development (41.7%) and stunted their progress (39.2%). Alarmingly, about a quarter (24.6%) believe their child will have to repeat a year as a result.

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

Parents have also been concerned about their children’s ability to socialise (43.5%), them increased screen time (40.4%) and the reduced quality of education (38.2%). Most say their child had trouble adapting to the new rules (57.0%), and that they struggled to understand why they couldn’t – and in some instances still can’t, visit their grandparents (50.5%).

And whilst children have been the main focus of parents during this time, many are looking inwards and reprioritising aspects of their lives. A majority (69.7%) say it’s been a good time to build or learn new skills, with self-driven/self-improvement initiatives a key priority (65.8%).

Half of Australian parents are also investing time in completing online formal courses (50.8%), perhaps unsurprising given over a third are considering a change in their career path (37.4%). Looking ahead, parents feel that the positives from this period are continuing (40%).

And although it has been – and still is – a difficult time, 83.7 per cent agree that greater resilience to deal with life’s challenges and uncertainties are a possible outcome for the younger generations.

Further findings from the research CHILDCARE ATTENDANCE COMPOUNDS STRESSES AND WORRIES FOR PARENTS • 54.7% have been worried about health risks •3 6.5% was worried about Government subsidies for day care stopping • 31.8% said it was hard to imagine coping without it • 28.5% have been worried about day care closures Parents have coped well with home schooling, but it wasn’t without difficulties • 73.9% said the hardest thing was to keep them engaged and focused • 61.2% said the hardest thing was to have time and attention to complete their own work and/or duties at home • 54.7% said the hardest thing was to play the role as the home teacher •4 6.5% said the hardest thing was feeling like it was compromising their education experience • 42.0% said the hardest thing was for the family not to have a break from each other

THE TECHNOLOGICAL ERA HAS MADE DEALING WITH THIS CRISIS EASIER • 91.2% said that technology is helping the family stay socially connected with family and friends • 89.4% said technology is providing more opportunity for family time with relatives online • 76.5% said their family has adopted new ways of connecting with technology that are likely to stay after restrictions are lifted • 66.6% said technology can end up breaking ‘real life’ connections

THE STRENGTH OF COMMUNITY IS KEY IN WEATHERING THIS CRISIS • 39.6% have spotted teddy bears (or similar) in windows for the local children • 27.5% have seen local drives to help neighbours and older people in need • 21.0% have experienced driveway events • 17.4% have seen people dress up to take the bins out

THE POSITIVE IMPACTS TO THE FAMILY UNIT ARE EXPECTED TO LAST

• 37.5% think community gestures and connection trends are likely to be maintained post-COVID

•5 8.2% said the best silver lining was more quality time together as a family •5 7.5% said it made the family more grateful to have each other

www.realinsurance.com.au/news-views/new-family-norm

•5 6.6% said it reminded them of the importance of family sticking together •4 6.9% said the best silver lining was to find new ways to interact, pass the time or finding common interests • 44.3% said the best silver lining was to share more meals together • 42.6% enjoyed gaining new insights into their children’s education

www.peninsulakids.com.au www.peninsulakids.com.au 29

How to choose a bank account for your child

By Jo & Carl Violetta

A

s parents, we want to do everything we can to guide our children towards becoming happy and fulfilled adults.

Financial literacy and sound money management skills are two of the greatest gifts we can give our kids.

Focusing on financial literacy at home can help kids learn how to save money, make smart financial decisions, and grow into financially savvy adults.

Pocket money is an effective tool to teach kids about managing money.

For example, encouraging kids to save their pocket money for special purchases teaches them how to wait for what they want.

Opening a bank account for your child to save their money also offers a valuable opportunity to teach them about compounding interest.

But how do you choose the right bank account for your child? There's plenty of choice when it comes to kids' bank accounts, so it can feel a bit overwhelming.

Here's what to consider when looking for a bank account for your child.

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

Bank account or money box?

I like to think about the child's age before I decide whether or not to open up a bank account for them.

My husband Carl and I have two kids, Eva (19) and Marcus (6).

Marcus doesn't have a bank account yet; he uses a money box.

For younger kids, I prefer them to have a money box rather than a bank account. Physical money offers a tactile experience.

When children can physically touch and see their money, it's less of an abstract concept for them. They can practice maths skills by grouping and counting different denominations. They can physically watch their money grow in their money box.

Fees

If you do decide to open a bank account for your child, try to find an account with low or no fees.

Most kids' bank accounts have no fees. Be aware, though, sometimes kids' bank accounts will say that they have no fees, but they actually have some sneaky hidden fees. For example, the bank may advertise the account as having no fees, but this is on the condition that your child only makes one withdrawal per month.

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Interest rates

Bank account comparison sites

Kids bank accounts typically have fairly generous interest rates.

But again, you need to read the terms and conditions. Sometimes interest rates can drop if your child doesn't make regular deposits or if they make withdrawals above what is prescribed in the terms and conditions.

There are plenty of helpful comparison websites that allow you to compare different savings accounts for your kids. Be mindful, though, that these websites rarely compare every kids' bank account on the market. Also, sometimes they show sponsored bank products at the top of their list of recommended bank accounts.

Some kids' bank accounts will automatically switch to another type of account when your child reaches a certain age (usually 12 years old).

When the account switches over the interest rate and fee structure may also change.

Opening a bank account for your child provides an excellent opportunity to build their financial literacy and develop good savings habits. To find the right one for your child, set about half an hour aside to do some research. And remember, when comparing accounts don't be seduced by headline interest rates and promises of low fees, like any financial products, it's essential to read those terms and conditions.

Tax implications

Before you open a bank account for your kids, you also need to consider the potential tax implications. There's a threshold of how much interest the child's account can earn before they may have to pay tax on that interest. Have a chat with your accountant or visit ato. gov.au to make sure you're fully informed.

If you'd like to learn more about how to teach kids about money, download our free guide: www.violetafinance.com.au/how-to-teachkids-about-money-guide.

Jo and Carl Violeta are self-confessed numbers nerds, parents of two, and co-founders of the award-winning business, Violeta Finance. They’re a husband and wife team who are passionate about empowering their community with financial education, love the odd glass of wine, and get a kick out of helping families achieve their homeownership and financial dreams. www.violetafinance.com.au

Frankston Summer Family Fun Keep the kids active and captivated in the outdoors with the Frankston City Explorers Club.

Looking for something more structured for the little ones? Book a Street Art Walking Tour and be entertained by a 1.5 hour fun-filled wander through

the city’s laneways and streets for an in-depth discovery into the artwork stories and their talented creators.

Discover the hidden art in Frankston’s city centre with our Street Art Explorers booklet.

Complete all 6 activities to become a Certified Street Art Explorer.

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Activities are suitable for children aged 4–12 years.

For more information about what’s on in Frankston City or to book a Street Art Walking Tour visit

discoverfrankston.com discoverfrankston Get some fresh air and explore the Frankston Waterfront with our Seaside Explorers activity pack. Complete all 6 activities to become a Certified Seaside Explorer.

www.peninsulakids.com.au

33

Local

The best way t o see A N

ext time you're thinking of visiting one of the big zoos, why not take a look at what’s on offer locally at the 25 acre Moonlit Sanctuary Conversation Park in Pearcedale. Not only is it open every day, but at night-time it comes alive with magical lantern-lit tours.

Currently the sanctuary is home to over 70 Australian wildlife species and is arranged for easy viewing. They also offer close-up encounters with wombats, dingoes and koalas.

We've all enjoyed visiting the sanctuary during the day with the children.

The kids especially enjoy hand feeding the free-roaming kangaroos and wallabies. Food for the animals is available at the ticket office for $3 a container.

But after nightfall the sanctuary takes on a new life full of different, amazing experiences. In the evening you can take part in their night tour which is an amazing way to get up close to Australia’s fascinating wildlife. After dark brings encounters with a wide variety of animals in their natural nocturnal environment where they are

34

Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

actively foraging for food and interacting with each other and the sanctuary's guests.

The tour guides are passionate and knowledgeable about the animals and the groups are kept small. Tours are a maximum of 12 people.

Get up close to potoroos, tiny feathertail gliders, endangered quolls, Tasmanian devils, pademelons, kangaroos and many other animals for an unforgettable hands-on experience.

The children will love the hand-held lanterns that guide the way through the bush and wetlands of the sanctuary and brim with delight when feeding the super-cute gliders with capfuls of nectar.

Tours take 11/2 – 2 hours to complete and begin at twilight. Private night tours are also available. Bookings are essential.

Moonlit Sanctuary is located at 550 Tyabb-Tooradin Rd, Pearcedale and is open from 10:00am-5:00pm weekdays and 9:30am to 5:00pm weekends.

Aussie animals Night Tour Tickets

Adults: $55 Children: $33 Concession: $50 Family: $165

Private Night Tours

$290 for 1-2 people $72 for additional people

Day Admission Tickets Adults: $26 Concession: $23

Children: $13 Family Pass: $70

Bookings are essential and can be made online at moonlitsanctuary.com.au or by calling 5978 7935.

Koalas Quolls Galahs Dingoes Goannas Wombats Emus Kangaroos

www.peninsulakids.com.au

35

Kids, Cartwheels &

CONFIDENCE

By Mikayla van Loon

A

cro Kids husband and wife duo Damian and Katherine Clemens have not only built a successful business centred around the health and wellbeing of kids, but have each found themselves the freedom of running their own business.

“We’re lone wolves. We were on our own so we kind of found each other and discovered that we’re both similar in that way, so for us to start a business was almost a given or a natural thing for us,” Katherine said.

Katherine, a marketing and communications expert and Damian a personal trainer and gymnastics coach, moved to the Mornington Peninsula for a lifestyle change, away from the corporate world of the Melbourne CBD. Sticking to each of their strengths, Katherine said that being a business owner has made both of them more relaxed and has improved their communication with each other, as well as their relationship.

“We do complement each other although of course we bicker a lot like any other married couple,” Katherine said. “If we don’t tread on each other’s toes too much, we work really well as a team.”

When Acro Kids started five years ago, Katherine was still working full time, while raising three children and doing all the admin for the business.

She said that time in her life was probably the most challenging but making the transition to working for herself, where there are no limitations, has been very rewarding.

Damian and Katherine’s motivation behind starting Acro Kids stemmed from wanting to create something that would involve their children.

And even though they say it can be hard work and it never seems as if they switch off from thinking about work, they find joy in being more family focused.

“We didn’t want to have a business where we never saw our children,” Katherine said.

Not only do they love watching their own children grow and develop within the programs but they enjoy watching others kids do the same.

“We’ve had so many children for many years where they continue to come and you get to be a part of their life in a small way and we really love that,” Katherine said.

Damian says Acro Kids run many programs for all different ages and capabilities; they have seen a great balance between boys and girls getting involved in acrobatic skills.

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

Their Kinder program is for kids aged one to five, where they learn locomotion, fine motor skills, balance and agility in a 45 minute class and the idea is that the kids are always on the move.

The Acrobatics program focuses on the gymnastics skills of cartwheels, handstands, rolls and tumbles – building fitness, stamina and strength.

Parkour programs allow kids to try their hand at freestyle running while jumping and tumbling over various obstacles.

Acro Kids also offers one-on-one coaching and smaller group classes for anyone wanting that extra personal training, as well as for kids with disabilities and special needs; there is something for everyone.

‘King of the kids’ Mr D, as Damian is known, said that Acro Kids is not just about physical development but is about growing strong, resilient minds in kids.

“We develop confident kids, whether it’s confidence in their bodies, trusting in their abilities or learning that they are special and what they can do is unlimited not only to what they think they can do; we help them grow in those respects,” Damian said.

“The premise of what we do and what we’ve developed and what we run today are programs that are not competitive, they’re fun. It’s about encouraging children to have a go, to get their bodies moving and to learn cool new skills and to really be proud of their achievements,” Katherine said. “It’s just for their own self-worth and self-esteem.”

The duo have sometimes caught themselves looking for a break but now after having six months off due to coronavirus, Damien and Katherine are ready to get back to work.

“We’re ever evolving. It keeps our interest up and although we’re physically tired sometimes, we are never too tired not to really put one hundred percent into the business,” Damian said.

“I think we’re very clear that this is what we want, so in our minds it’s never too hard,” Katherine added.

Acro Kids is located at 6 Sophie Court, Mornington www.acrokids.com.au www.peninsulakids.com.au

37

The Art of

A

sk any parent what they want most for their child and their answer will usually be “Happiness”. But in an ever-changing world, particularly during a global pandemic, how do we encourage our children to embrace their wellbeing and explore ways to be conscious of improving it? One simple, fun and low-cost way to do this is through creative expression.

For many years now, we have known the benefits of a creative pursuit for wellbeing and enjoyment; whether it be painting, singing, dance, or indulging in “creative mindfulness” projects – such as colouring books, tapestries, meditation and craft. Tapping into your creative spirit can be a calming way, especially for children and young people, to express yourself and communicate.

However, in times of uncertainty, creative expression is also a great technique to start a conversation or share an idea that might otherwise be hard to verbalise.

To help you explore creative mindfulness and wellbeing with the little people in your life, the Frankston Arts Centre team has suggested these easy activities – perfect to do one on one, or even as a family. During 2020, we have all been stretched and challenged. Open conversation and positive connection will always be beneficial to building healthy relationships.

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

MAKE A GRATITUDE JOURNAL A gratitude journal is a lovely way to be thankful for something or someone, or to articulate a positive interaction that day. Younger children might need an adult to help them write things down while older children can do this independently.

 Pick out a journal that looks appealing, or decorate a cheap exercise book with textas, pencils or magazine pictures.



efore writing or drawing in your gratitude journal, choose a ritual B to repeat beforehand each time. You might play a favourite song, sing a little rhyme, or take a moment to deeply breathe and relax.

 Express Gratitude

• Think about something positive that happened in your day… it could be as simple as enjoying the sun on the walk to school, playing with friends, or getting a good result on a project.

It might be good to talk about this first with someone you trust!

They might be able to help you articulate how you feel.

• On a page in your journal, write about what you are thankful for or draw an image of how it made you feel. If you’re not a confident drawer, you could find a picture in a magazine depicting the feeling.

You could make a collage of images – or even use colours to make an abstract drawing of the colours the moment made you feel. You could write a poem or use lyrics from your favourite song!

• Somewhere on the page, you might want to mark the date so you can reflect back to think about the things you have to be grateful for.

Sometimes, when moments are tough – having a record of these things can help pull us out of a bad mood, or feeling that we are lost.

Some examples of moments of gratitude could be: • Something someone did for you today • A person who you love • Something you like to do • A talent you have • A part of your body you are grateful for • Something that made you laugh today • A song you like • A game you like to play • A new skill you have learned • A food you like to eat • A pet that you love • A memory of something you have done in the past



I f your moment of gratitude is about someone else, you might want to share the love by calling them to tell them; this connection will make you feel good and the other person will feel valued (improving their wellbeing!).

Tip: Journals can be private spaces, so some young people might not want to share their entries and that is okay! Be encouraging and ask questions – just remember that the result might be a private thing, just for their own eyes.

COLOUR BREATHING

 Sit or stand so that your body is straight.  Close your eyes.  Think of a colour that makes you feel relaxed or happy.  Imagine that colour is all around you.  Now think of a colour that makes you feel sad or angry.  Slowly breathe in and imagine the relaxing or happy colour filling your lungs.

 As you breathe out, imagine the colour that makes you feel sad or

angry mixing with the colour that makes you feel relaxed or happy.

 Watch as the sad or angry colour mixes with the relaxed or happy colour and it disappears.

 Each time you breathe in, imagine more of your relaxing colour

filling your body; your whole body is filling with that colour and you are feeling relaxed.

 Each time you breathe out, see the sad or angry colour leaving

your body; your worries and sadness are being let out and going far away.

eep going until you stop breathing out your sad or angry colour; K now there is none of that colour left and only the relaxing colour is in your body.

Having recently expanded, with three Arts Therapists joining the Frankston Arts Centre team as part of the Working For Victoria initiative, the FAC looks forward to providing a range of Arts Wellbeing activities for all ages and abilities over the coming months.

Colour breathing is a simple stress reducing activity that involves picturing a colour in your mind that represents how you want to feel.

Tip: this works best in a quiet and comfortable place. Young children will need a grown up to guide them, while older children may do this independently.

To hear first about programs on offer, subscribe to e-news at thefac.com.au or follow their socials.

www.peninsulakids.com.au

39

Be FiRST...

info@fel.vic.edu.au ‘About children being children’

Scan this QR code to visit our website

| CHILDCARE | KINDERGARTEN | EARLY EDUCATION | Fully funded excursions and incursions

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ADDISON

ANNA

OLIVER

RUBY

STEVIE

WINTER

BUSH & BEACH KINDER

SWIMMING

YOGA

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Connecting with nature and the environment

Building our confidence and awareness around water

Vital to relaxation, meditation and calming

Connecting and having fun with our older friends at our local aged care homes

Wide open spaces and freedom to investigate and discover

Water safety and survival skills combined with swimming techniques

Promoting balance, coordination, health and concentration

Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

Local parks, libraries, shops and primary schools are always fun to visit

HASTINGS | 5979 2831 FRANKSTON SOUTH | 9783 3390

ENDEAVOUR HILLS | 9700 1922 PAKENHAM Opening January 2021

COOKING

– Just add ingredients and recipes. Harnessing imagination, empowerment and creativity

REST AND RELAXATION

– Take a little rest, then it’s time to get busy and play!

GARDENING

– Children still need a childhood with dirt, puddles, trees, sticks and tadpoles

EXPLORATION

– Play is the highest form of research

LITERACY AND NUMERACY

– Play gives children a chance to practice what they are learning

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

– Every child is an artist

Call or just pop in, we can’t wait to meet you! www.peninsulakids.com.au

41

Celebrate

Optimus Prime and Bumblebee: The Ultimate KIDS Party Entertainers

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

By Erica Louise The Melbourne Transformers helped our son '"transform" into the birthday boy and it was EPIC. We hired Optimus Prime and Bumblebee via XLENT Events to celebrate our son's 6th birthday. These two incredible performers were so entertaining and engaging with the kids, and the grown-ups too! In fact, two parents mentioned they wanted to hire the Melbourne Transformers for their upcoming 40th birthday parties.

Being a close-to-summer November party, we requested for the two performers to arrive at our local beachside park. We could hear them before we could see them as Optimus arrived with a portable music device, blaring loudly for all to hear.

The two bots danced and entertained for an hour, with Optimus MC'ing in full character. The children were up dancing and playing games while the parents watched on. Huge smiles all round.

Both Optimus and Bumblebee stayed for selfies and photos till the end, and helped us count down for the traditional birthday song and cake cutting.

This is going to be a party to remember for a long time to come, both for our son and for all involved.

Thank you XLENT Events and the Melbourne Transformers for a brilliant day.

If you would like to hire the Melbourne Transformers for your next event, head to XLENT Events to book in your character hire: xlentevents.com.au.

Alternatively, follow the Melbourne Transformers on Facebook to find out when their next public performance will be. The Melbourne Transformers perform in public venues all over the city during school holidays.

Bumblebee Transformer cake and cookies

by Mornington cake maker Stealing Petit Fours.

www.peninsulakids.com.au

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party

PLANNING INDOOR PLAY CENTRE Y CENTRE IND andOOR PLA

CAFE

and

FE CA BOOK

UR YO SPECIALISING IN CHILDREN’S PARTY XMAS BIRTHDAY W! NO PARTIES

OPEN FOR DINNER FRIDAY NIGHTS TILL 7pm GIVE A GIFT VOUCHER FOR A XMAS GIFT!

Kidzshed

Book your next kids themed party at Kidzshed!

Amazing packages including use of the party room, hot & cold food, host, invites & more.

Venue also available for private hire.

P: 5906 5900 E: kidzshed@gmail.com M: 0409 875 944 W: kidzshed.com.au

Stardust Fairies

Captivating & igniting the magical seed of imagination & sparkalicousness.

Specialising in themed birthday parties, corporate, craft parties,workshops, face painting, markets & events.

Call now or visit our magical website.

M: 0414 470 522 W: stardustfairies.com.au

Magical•Musical•Memorable Animals Fur All

On farm Animal and pony parties.

Mobile animal farm. Riding lessons.

All abilities sessions. Group sessions.

Devon Meadows M: 0434 556 641 W: animalsfurall.com.au

Locked In Escape Rooms

Can you and your team escape in time?

Perfect for parties for older kids. Ages 12 and up can play without an adult. 4 exciting themed rooms to choose from. Party space available.

Self-catered or we can organize your catering.

Call Carolyn M: 0413 010 431 W: lockedinescaperooms.com.au

Fairy Jasmine Entertainment

Specialising in Fairy and Frozen themed parties. Packages can include fun, interactive party games, professional singing, dancing, magic shows, face painting, ballooning, and personal animated video messages.

M: 0400 510 813 W: fairyjasminesentertainment.com

Happy Glamper

If you’re looking for something unique for your significant birthday, corporate retreat, wedding, festival, backyard glamping or private party, get in touch to discuss glamping for 2 to 200 people!

Contact us through our website E: info@happyglamper.com.au W: happyglamper.com.au

ALL SK8HOUSE PARTIES INCLUDE:

Large 2000sqm Covid-SAFE venue Stress-free party fun for everyone!

Individually served food & drink Admission & Sk8hire Invitations Tablecloth & decorations

3/2 Amayla Cres Carrum Downs Vic 3201 P: 03 9773 6799 E: info@sk8house.com.au Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

RED

P

$25 T S U J n erso

CATE

p/p

*Capacity limits & conditions apply see website for details

BOOK ON-LINE

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T GREA E!!

V A L U ARTIES

TODAY Find us on social media!

Ceramic Painting Parties

Unique & creative party experience! Choose from a fully facilitated party or try our new DIY “Party in a Box” option for when COVID restrictions are in place. Every party guest creates their own ceramic masterpiece!

M: 0417 155 929 FB: facebook.com/artypantsau

Adam's Games & Amusements

A wide range of classic carnival games and fun foods available for hire! Giant outdoor yard games, fairy floss machine, popcorn, snow cones and much more.

M. 0427 113 886 E: info@adamsgamesandamusements.com.au W: adamsgamesandamusements.com.au

Charlie SillyPants Parties “Very TheHave ultimateakids’ show!Silly ComeChristmas” on an adventure by and having the full of magic laughter withsilliest Charlie SillyPants and friends.

Parties, preschool and childcare. magician in Magicland M. 041Charlie 1 957 185SillyPants at the W: melbournemadness.net kids’ next party!

You receive $50 off a 1 hour party/show or it’s only $100 for a 30 minute live ZOOM party.

Checkout Charlie SillyPant’s crazy shows on his Youtube channel.

KIDZTOWN www.youtube.com/c/ charliesillypants/ PARTY VENUES

www.facebook.com/ charliesillypants W. charliesillypants.com.au

Mornington & Seaford

Play At The Messy Shed!

Party includes 2 hosts, 45 minutes of sensory play, clean up, aprons and picnic tables for up to 20 kids. Book online at: W: playatthemessyshed.com.au

Acro Kids Parties

Celebrate with Acro Kids!

Acro, Parkour and Ninja Parties for all occasions. Enquire today!

M: 0477 079 970 W: acrokids.com.au

Kidztown

The biggest and most exciting themed kids party venue to hit the Mornington Peninsula. www.facebook.com/kidztownmornington P: 8759 1431 M: 0403 795 562

& EVENTS

Party Planning & Catering

Sweet Celebrations

We provide full-service planning and catering for children’s parties, from balloons and décor to custom cakes and catering.

We do it all to make their day perfect!

Contact Tarryn M: 0435 047 339 W: sweetcelebrations.net.au

Fairy and Elsa parties!

More characters also available such as Emma Wiggle & Mermaid! 1.5 hours of singing, dancing, games, face painting, balloon twisting & photo time. Even a gift for the birthday girl or boy. All this for $250 !

FB: Snowflakes Parties & Events E: snowflakesparties@gmail.com

Robyn’s Room

Seeking something unique? A Creative Art and Craft party takes birthday fun to a whole new level ! It’s just not a pARTy without ART! Let’s get your party started!

Located in Mornington robynsroom.com.au/creative-parties www.peninsulakids.com.au

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Pixie Moon Parties

Specialising in Magical Fairy, Pixie, Pirate and Unicorn Parties!

Face-painting, balloon twisting, entertainment – themed party games, magic, dancing, bubbles, craft, treasure hunt, prizes and more! Current restrictions apply. Call Shannon Dowd on: M: 0413 656 798 FB: facebook.com/pixiemoonparties W: pixiemoonparties.com.au

Fairy Freckles and Friends

We are professional fun makers that come to you! Specialising in face painting, balloon twisting, magic shows, games and roving characters, fully equipped to add some sparkle to your next kid's party or special event.

M: 0407 326 726 W: fairyfrecklesandfriends.com.au

Boneo Discovery Park

The perfect place for your next Birthday celebration! So much to do and so many beautiful spaces to decorate and make your own. Why not make us your next party spot!

We have packages for every Birthday and budget.

P: 5988 6385 W: boneodiscoverypark.com.au

Call Miriam on 0421 085 974 miriam@mpnews.com.au

peninsulakids.com.au/parties

Family fun at Cranbourne Gardens

The perfect gift for you or someone you love.

Fabiola Curavic

Smallprint Mornington Peninsula m: 0420 971 324 smallprint mornington peninsula smlp_mornington

www.smallprint.com 46

Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

Woodland Picnic Area Open daily, 9am – 5pm

FREE ENTRY

Enjoy a unique bushland space for families that includes large open grasslands for ball games, a bicycle track and a children’s playground. rbg.vic.gov.au/visit-cranbourne

To Celebrate!

Source: www.timeanddate.com

December 5 Day of the Ninja On this day we honour and celebrate the sneaky and stealthy masked warriors in black garb from ancient Japan.

Legend has it that this unofficial holiday was created in 2003 to commemorate the release of Tom Cruise’s movie, The Last Samurai.

A ninja, also known as a shinobi, did not wear the all black outfit ninjas are depicted wearing today in films, TV shows, and comic books. After all, one of the main tasks of a ninja as a spy was to infiltrate by blending into his surroundings. They would often dress as the locals to do their job.

December 16 Pythagorean Theorem Day or Pythagoras Day This day is celebrated when the sum of the squares of the first two digits in a date equals the square of the last digit in the date. December 16, 2020 16/12/20: 12² + 16² = 20² The holiday gets its name from Pythagoras' Theorem, which defines the relationship between the sides of a right triangle or a right-angled triangle – a triangle where one angle is at 90 degrees. According to the Theorem, in a right triangle, the square of the hypotenuse (the longest side of the triangle) is equal to the sum of the square of the other two sides. The Theorem is named after Greek mathematician and philosopher, Pythagoras, who is thought to have formulated the proof for it.

January 13 Make Your Dreams Come True Day If you have been procrastinating on fulfilling your dream, this is your chance to get things right. This unofficial holiday with unknown origins encourages people to be proactive in achieving their life goals.

Dreams are a part of life. We all dream when we sleep, but most of us don't remember them the next day. No matter how big or small, there are some dreams that inspire us and allow us to make our lives better. It is these dreams that Make your Dreams Come True Day celebrates. Celebrate the day by reaching for the stars!

February 24 Tortilla Chip Day Tortilla chips were first popularized as a way to reuse misshapen tortillas by Rebecca Webb Carranza whose family owned the Los Angeles-based El Zarape Tortilla Factory in the 1940s.

Today tortilla chips accompanied by some form of a dip is now a staple party dish. Usually made of fried yellow corn tortillas, tortilla chips can be served with dips like salsa, chili or guacamole. Celebrate the day with a plate of yummy nachos.

www.peninsulakids.com.au

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Fix & Learn Car Carrier

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The Fix & Learn Car Carrier is an interactive car carrier that recognises different accessories when they are added to this cute car friend. Through guided play the carrier will ask your little one to add accessories to build the car in a variety of cool designs. Adding the accessories will trigger awesome sounds and phrases. Place the car on the car carrier to hear the vehicles talk to each other. Press the light up buttons to explore the car carrier, car, road safety and colours. Even find accessories to build and customise cool cars in Challenge Mode.

Get ready to car-stomise! The Fix & Learn Car Carrier is suitable for pre-schoolers from 2 to 5 years, and available from September at Big W, good toy stores and online retailers.

RRP: $49.95

WOW! PODS A totally new way to collect and display your favourite characters! Each character lives in their hex-shaped pod with built in UV lights. Simply swipe to bring your pods to life as your character pops and the light reveals hidden images. The swipe-to-light function and an interlocking hexagonal shape means you can personalise your display exactly how you want. Each pack contains one character which is secured inside the Pod, instructions for use, batteries are included.

Available from leading independent toy stores. www.instagram.com/wowpodsanz/ RRP: $29.95

Pat Cronin Foundation Book Pack The Pat Cronin Foundation has launched three inspirational and touching story books written for primary school-aged children that it hopes will be shared with every young student in Australia.

The New Playground revolves around children desperately wanting to get into the new school playground and how one child makes a wrong choice in pushing a playmate off the slide because he wanted to be first.

The Four Square Challenge centres on children playing a ball game, which leads up to a challenge that takes an unexpected turn in the final practice game and leaves one girl learning an important lesson. Footy Fever covers an important Aussie Rules football match in which Patch is captain of the Rockets and Maya is captain of the Sharks, both players in year 6. While everyone on the ground was well behaved, one player wanted to make a name for himself at all costs and soon learnt a valuable lesson about teamwork.

All profit from sales of the books will go to the Pat Cronin Foundation, which honours Pat by providing an optimistic voice to awareness, education and research about the Coward Punch.

The books can be purchased from patcroninfoundation.org.au and are priced at $20 each or $50 for the set of three. A 20% discount applies for any schools.

Jabra Elite 75t earbuds These buds are perfect for stylish mamas who need a minute to themselves.

Whether that be to listen to a podcast, meditate, temporarily block the sound of ABC Kids or smash out a run while listening to your favourite tune – these buds have got your back.

Available now JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, Amazon.com.au, www.Jabra.com.au RRP: $299.00

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

SmartSnugg Blanket Leading experts in infant sleep warn against using loose blankets, and for good reason. Yet this makes it very difficult to control your child’s temperature, particularly overnight when there may be significant temperature changes. That’s why we designed the SmartBlanket.

The SmartBlanket attaches directly to the SmartSleeper, eliminating the risk of suffocation but giving you extra control over your child's comfort.

The SmartBlanket is available in 0.5, 1.0 and 2.5 TOGs (Thermal Overall Grade) www.smartsnugg.com.au RRP: $45.00

Wahu SKIM ‘N HOOP Cool off this summer with Wahu's Skim & Hoop!

This large, multi-functional inflatable can be used both in and out of the pool! Featuring 2 basketball hoops, 3 circular skim scoring targets, a detachable net on the rear plus an 11cm ball, you'll be all set for summer! Ideal for unlimited rounds of pool basketball challenges, water polo, pool football/ soccer or skim ball challenges!

Suitable Ages: 6+ years.

Available now at Leading Retailers and Wahu.com.au RRP: $79.99

Wahu POOL BOPPER Introducing the new Wahu Pool Bopper! Don't get bopped!

Bop your mates as the pop up! If you get bopped you're out.

Measures 1.8m x 1.4m in size and is suitable for 4 players.

Suitable Ages: 6+ years. Available now at Wahu.com.au RRP: $39.00

Being Brave Too Searching for Charlotte Girls pack Bunjie Baby Skincare

The Australian baby skincare brand is unlike any other baby skincare on the market now.

With the first 1000 days of life are a big deal, Bunjie is dedicated to supporting happy little skin with prebiotic & probiotic do-goodies that support skin microbiome development from Day 1. Studies now show that disruption to the skin microbiome is a driving factor in triggering Eczema in infants.

Full product range available at Chemist Warehouse Top to toe wash. RRP: $19.99 Gentle shampoo. RRP: $19.99 Bubble bath. RRP: $15.99 Moisture lotion. RRP: $22.99 Massage & bath oil. RRP: $25.99 Nappy & barrier cream. RRP: $13.99 The Minis. RRP: $29.99

Sema Musson and Hester Leung have co-authored a sequel in their Being Brave Girls series, titled Being Brave Too. A positive, inspirational novel for girls in their pre-teen and early teenage years, Being Brave Too is also a personal development guide for young women. It is the sequel to Being Brave.

The novel shares a story of personal courage, friendship and an adventure to save the wildlife, with themes on self-esteem and resilience to empower young women to stand up for themselves and be confident in their own skin.

Available at Amazon, other online outlets and for order from bookshops. www.thebeingbravegirls.com RRP: $19.99

For almost 140 years, the author of Australia’s first children’s book was a mystery. Known only by the description ‘a Lady Long Resident in New South Wales’, she was the subject of much speculation until 1980 when, after a decade of sleuthing, legendary bibliographer Marcie Muir discovered her name: Charlotte Waring Atkinson. And not only her name, but an extensive creative family history, connecting her to two of Australia’s most celebrated contemporary children’s writers, Kate Forsyth and Belinda Murrell.

In Searching for Charlotte authors and sisters Kate Forsyth and Belinda Murrell unite to uncover the longburied story of their great-greatgreat-great grandmother and pioneer female writer, Charlotte Waring Atkinson, whose life was a tale of love, grief, violence and triumph against the odds.

RRP: $34.95

LeapFrog Purrfect Counting Handbag Meet the Purrfect Counting Handbag. This soft, multi-textured, fabric cat handbag comes with loads of personality, accessories, and learning content.

The Learn, Pretend and Music modes add playful variety to learning. Press the light-up jewels on the interactive tiara to learn about numbers and counting, colours and shapes. Toddlers love to fill things up, unload, and fill again, and this two-handled handbag stands upright and wide open to make filling it easy. Fine motor skills get a workout as little fingers pick up and grasp the five included accessories: pretend smartphone, ID tag with kid-safe mirror, key set, comb, and non-removable circle coins in a coin purse. All accessories store inside the handbag. Enjoy this take-along feline friend who teaches with a wonderful sense of humour.

For babies aged 6 months and over, the Purrfect Counting Handbag is available now from Big W, good toy stores and online retailers. www.leapfrog.com.au RRP: $34.95

www.peninsulakids.com.au

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Smiggle is going crackers for Christmas!

From classically Smiggle, must-have gifts, to family fun and stocking stuffers, there’s something for everyone and every budget, from pocket money to extra special.

Smiggle is making Christmas merrier!

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Fluffy Sand A5 Notebook Writing's extra fun with this lined A5 notebook that comes with a secret compartment of fluffy sand!

Can you find where it's hidden??

RRP: $24.95 Robo Invaders Writing Set RRP: $44.95 Unicorn Universe Writing Set RRP: $44.95 Everything is available from Smiggle stores nationally (and internationally!!) or online at www.smiggle.com

Wahu BEACH FOOTY & SOCCER BALL Whether you’re at the beach, park or in the back yard the Wahu Footy and Wahu Soccer have a waterproof neoprene skin for all conditions. The real laces and raised graphics add to the authentic feel and offers maximum grip. The air-filled bladder means you can inflate to your liking.

Available in 4 Colours: Orange, Pink, Red and Green!

Suitable Ages: 6+ years.

Available now at Leading Retailers and Wahu.com.au RRP: $24.99 each

Serena Geddes Books

Soda Press Co Organic soda mixer brand, Soda Press Co., has teamed up once again with its much- loved partner, SodaStream, to introduce a new organic Passionfruit and Mandarin Kombucha concentrate, adding to the range of Original Kombucha and their comprehensive range of organic, reduced-sugar soda syrups and mixers.

With greater emphasis on health and wellbeing to boost immunity and reduce sugar intake, Soda Press Co’s Passionfruit and Mandarin Kombucha Concentrate is the perfect addition to your daily health journey. Soda Press and SodaStream can be found in leading retailers nationwide. www.sodapressco.com RRP: $10.95 per bottle

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

In the first story of Rosie and Rasmus, two kindred spirits—a lonely young girl and a solitary young dragon—find each other and discover the power and magic of friendship in this sweetly simple picture book.

Two years after 2019’s Rosie and Rasmus, international illustrator and now author Serena Geddes launches the delightful sequel, Where the Dragons Live.

In Where the Dragons Live, when Rasmus bids his best friend Rosie goodbye to journey to the Island of Dragons, he wasn’t sure what to expect – he’s never met another dragon before! Upon his arrival to the island, he finds the other dragons to be fierce, feisty and a little mean. They point out how Rasmus and his small wings don’t fit in with the rest of them.

Will Rasmus ever be a real dragon? Luckily, Rasmus’ friend Rosie travels to the island, and helps him discover that being his own true self is what really matters in friendship and dragonhood!

Ages: 4-8 Available at all good booksellers. www.serenageddes.com.au RRP: $22.99

The Kid’s Gone Country II Fun for All the Family Award-winning country singer, Amber Lawrence, is back with new music for kids and big kids at heart. In fact, Amber’s new kids’ album The Kid’s Gone Country II – Fun for All the Family is perfect for summer-time fun and is one that will have the whole family singing along!

Available at Sanity and some JB Hi-Fi Stores (NB: many JB stores are no longer carrying CDs). Also available directly from www.amberlawrence.com.au/ shop and on iTunes to download.

RRP: $14.99

Alexander the Great Alexander ‘The Great’ is as inspirational as it is educational and follows Alex Volkanovski's rise through the ranks of the UFC. This is a story of resilience, courage and what is possible when you work hard and commit, unapologetically, to your dream to be the best. Dreams only work if you do.

Ages: 4-9 www.alexanderthegreatthebook.com.au RRP: $20.00

Myla’s Sparkling Friends Playtime is magical with Myla’s Sparkling Friends Mia the Unicorn, Ava the Fox, and Penny the Peacock! These beautiful creative toys talk, sing, and light up with a kaleidoscope of colours. Touch the magical necklace, then see the Myla’s Sparkling Friends’ eyes, head, wings or tail change colour when you touch them. Sing along to the songs you hear when you touch their mouth, and trigger lights and fun responses when you squeeze their legs or move their wings or tail.

Each Myla’s Sparkling Friends will react with over 100 fun, magical responses about their mood, feelings, and lucky colours. Each magical creature comes with additional accessories so you can add some extra flair. Collect all the friends for more colourful play (each sold separately)! Myla’s Sparkling Friends are suitable for children 4+ years, and available from September at Big W, good toy stores and online retailers.

RRP: $29.95

Jurassic World Captivz Slime Eggs Just un-wrap, crack and ooze you way through slime to reveal your mystery dinosaur Pop N’ Lock figure, identify your species and then challenge your friends to battle rounds based on aggression or intelligence powers – the bigger your dinosaur army, the better chances of defeating your opponent – then tally up your battle points to become the ultimate CAPTIVZ champion!

RRP: $7.99

Chocolate Grove

Kids Christmas Treats • Milk Chocolate Santa 250g • 6 inch Milk Chocolate confection Pizza 180g • Milk Chocolate Frog 19g • Milk Chocolate Popping Candy Bar 100g • Milk Chocolate Honeycomb Bar 100g • Banana confection coated in White Chocolate 200g shop.chocolategrove.com RRP: $25.00

www.peninsulakids.com.au

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1158 Nepean Hwy, Mornington VIC 3931 T: 03 5970 8535 www.bata.net.au 52

Present this cut-out coupon at the Bata Mornington Store to recieve 10% Off any purchase from our school shoe range.

Offer excludes all clearance & sale items.

Limited to one redemption per coupon per transaction. Only actual Mornington Peninsula Kids Magazine coupons will be accepted.

Voucher is valid until 31st March 2021.

Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

VOUCHER

10% OFF

SPECIAL SUMMER FEATURE

Australia’s

FIERCEST

Youth Extension Company #findyourfierce

2021 AUDITIONS Dance Performance Program AUDITION ONLY Juniors (5-9) Youth (10-18) Seniors (18+) Dance Technique Program - all ages Apply today! dancewriterco.com.au

Wildflower Wellbeing aims to support children and their families through yoga and meditation.

Classes during school term and workshops over school holidays.

Mini Maestros are passionate about providing music education for children aged 5 months to 5 years.

Specific age groups with small classes provide the best opportunity for your child to learn and develop social connections.

Sing, dance and play in our nurturing environment which will foster a love of music for a life time.

MT ELIZA•FRANKSTON LANGWARRIN W. minimaestros.com.au

We’re SUPER excited to be back in the pool, teaching survival skills at every level.

With Summer fast approaching and many kids having been out of the pool and regular swimming lessons for over 6 months, NOW is the perfect time to jump back in for a Safer Summer.

P. 9782 9444 E. carrumdowns@ paulsadlerswimland.com A. 149 Hall Road, Carrum Downs

CONTACT US wildflowerwellbeing.com.au hello@wildflowerwellbeing.com.au for timetable and booking info

www.peninsulakids.com.au

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SPECIAL SUMMER FEATURE

Leawarra Calisthenics Club develops strong, confident performers through a fun combination of dancing, gymnastics, singing and technical skills for all age groups.

We are an enthusiastic, friendly club where our members can connect, develop skills and create friendships that last a lifetime.

Our studio is in Seaford E. leawarracc@live.com.au W. leawarracalisthenics.com.au

Offering exciting programs and classes for children, run by established artists experienced in their fields.

If you want your children to experience a variety of creative classes, book early as class size is limited.

Contact the Gallery P. 59734299 or email art@oakhillgallery.com.au

We all want our children to have the best possible start to their school life, but Covid 19 caused so much disruption to preschool education in 2020.

Are you worried that your child is not learning what they need to be ready for big school next year?

As a qualified prep teacher I understand your concerns.

I know how vital a good start to school is.

A stressful school experience creates feelings of inadequacy and frustration and can lead to needing costly interventions.

The activities in our kits have been developed by educational experts. They ensure that your child will develop the pre literacy and pre numeracy skills they need to start school with confidence and excitement.

JUNGLE CATS CHEERLEADING, DANCE & AEROBICS Fun loving environment where students can learn valuable skills to help them live their best life.

We strive to have every student walk out our doors with a smile on their face.

25 Bayport Ct, Mornington E. info@junglecats.com.au P. 0487 274 985

BACK TO SWIM AT PARC We’re committed to children being safer around water and the positive learning outcomes from regular weekly swimming.

PARC is NOW taking 2021 enrolments for our Learn to Swim program: • High quality teaching • Excellent learning outcomes • 7 days a week timetable • Levels by age and ability Enquire now!

E. parcswim@parcfrankston. com.au

Mornington Life Saving Club Nippers.

Family, Fun & Fitness on beautiful Mills Beach.

Mornington Life Saving Club is an integral part of the local community providing a safe environment for a fun and friendly nippers program, water safety and surf lifesaver training.

Starting 27, 28, 29 & 30th/Dec (4 sessions) then Sunday’s 3/Jan - 28/Mar 2021 (12 sessions)

Help your child reach their full potential.

5979 8233 info@imstartingschool.com.au www.imstartingschool.com.au 54

Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

MEMBERSHIP OPEN - morningtonlsc.com.au

Concerns about your child’s education? Homeschooling?

Eagle Education offers: Join in the fun at Acro Kids in 2021!

Fun, non-competitive acrobatics and parkour programs for ages 1 yrs and up.

Holiday programs, parties and private coaching.

Book a FREE trial, enquire today!

P. 0477 079 970 W. acrokids.com.au

Cricket tots teaches the fundamentals of cricket to children between the age of 2 ½ to 5 year olds.

Our indoor sessions are well structured, progressive and fun. Our qualified instructors love what they do and are knowledgeable, experienced, enthusiastic and engaging.

E. howzat@crickettots.com.au P. 0438 233 773 W. crickettots.com.au

A progressive creative space for children from 3 – 18 years. We offer weekly classes and holiday workshops in drama, movement, public speaking and filmmaking.

Our classes inspire imaginative thinking and creative teamwork while nurturing confidence and clear communication. To book a free trial class visit: W. ssoca.com.au E. hello@ssoca.com.au

• Effective, evidence-based tutoring • Parent/carer advice and student workshops • Experience, compassion and knowledge of learning needs • Opportunities for you and your child to feel supported and successful Contact Sue for a no-obligation chat about your requirements.

W. Eagleeducation.com.au E. Eagleeducation101 @gmail.com P. 0484 596 194

Enrol 2021

Established 31 years KINDER DANCE R.A.D. CLASSICAL JAZZ / HIP HOP CONTEMPORARY VCE DANCE ACROBATICS

CLASSES RESUME JAN 2021 O

• Community driven martial arts school • Learn lifelong skills for being safe, happy and confident.

• Increasing focus and perseverance • Dedicated training facility • Developing self worth, courage, discipline and resilience • Learn practical self defence skills • Strong anti-bullying messages • Accredited instructors • Encouraging respect and humility • Being fit, active and healthy

1/2A Carbine Way Mornington Ph: 5975 3252

Office 5974 1498 facebook.com/mtmarthaschoolofdance instagram.com/mtmarthaschoolofdance

peninsulakungfu.com.au www.peninsulakids.com.au

55

Education

Starting Primary School

MANAGING ANXIETY

By Kim Norton

S

o your little one is all grown up and ready for “big”school?

When did that happen? It only seems like yesterday that you were holding their little hand on that nervous drive home from hospital, right? You have done the research and the planning and now their first day of primary school is looming, and that is a huge transition for the whole family.

For our first-time-mums this transition can bring up all sorts of feelings and questions like “What will I do with my time now?" For our Mum’s that have been there once or twice before, there are often cries of “Thank God”. Nonetheless, even our most even-tempered of children and relaxed families will be feeling some sort of nerves. The change that comes with this transition is inevitable and change can bring about a whole range of stress and anxiety-related issues that can be easily managed if we are aware of them and prepare adequately.

Below are some tips to make the transition a little easier for the whole family.

Make sure they are familiar with the school.

If your child has been attending public kindergarten then they may have had an excursion to see their new primary school. If not, then make a trip to the school so that you can show them around. Most schools will have their offices open about one week prior to school starting so contact them to see if they can arrange a tour for you and your child. Make sure your child knows where their classroom is, where the toilets are, the office and what their teachers name is for a good start. Also show your child where you will drop them off and pick them up each day (or where they are to go for After School Care if appropriate).

If your child is attending a primary school where they know very few or no other students, try and arrange a play date with other kids in your child’s class. This can be beneficial for both of you so that you too can meet other parents and there may be even a chance to talk about car pooling and/or sharing after school care. continued next page...

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Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

2021

MEDIA PARTNER

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Label everything.

Listen to their concerns and worries.

In a school of 300+ kids all wearing the same uniform and carrying the same school bag, items are easily misplaced or lost. Purchase a bag tag or other identifying item to attach to their school bag so it can be easily spotted. If they are able to choose their own bag and lunch box then let them. Make it a fun day out shopping for these items, and get them to help you label them all.

Don’t dismiss their concerns as trivial and don’t push them aside so that YOU do not have to worry about them. Listen and together, come up with a list of strategies to help them cope; for example, breathing exercises, meditation, counselling. Check in with them as often as necessary to see if these strategies are working for them.

Slowly bring the bedtime hour back.

If you have been letting your kids stay up later over the holidays bring their bedtime back slowly. Start about 5 days before the return of school and just make their bedtime 10-15 minutes earlier each night and their waking time by the same amount of time each morning until they are at their normal school time sleep schedule.

Bring back their bedtime routine or if you have never had one, think about starting one. Kids thrive and suffer a lot less stress and anxiety when they can predict what is about to happen. Develop a routine or routines for different nights of the week and then stick to it/them. For our kids that really struggle with getting to sleep, try some light exercise after dinner to get rid of any last minute angst before the wind down for bed begins.

Don’t leave everything to the last minute!

Pack their school bag and have their uniforms washed and ready to go a couple of days in advance. Have the school lunch and snack ingredients on hand and ready to go. Watching you rush around and listening to you stress the day before will not ensure a calm transition to school for anyone.

TRE N E C PLAY R O O IND BOOK and YOUIARLISING

Be positive and set a positive example.

Try talking positively about your experiences at primary school and, if there are older siblings, encourage them to do the same. An older brother or sister might also be a good “go to” person if your younger child feels they need some extra support during the recess or lunch break so ask them if they are willing to play that role.

Finally, enjoy this time.

You have done well, now savour the moment and enjoy as before you know it, we will be talking about secondary school and that is just a different kettle of fish!

Kim is the founder of Rainbow Light Therapies and is a Holistic Counsellor specialising in stress and anxiety management for kids, teens and adults. Kim provides a unique, intuitive and individualised therapy approach through individual, small group and family counselling sessions both online and at her studio in Langwarrin. Also working with special needs kids, Kim runs sessions and workshops for people of all abilities on various topics throughout the year.

Please see www.rainbowlighttherapies.com.au for more information.

CAFE

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TRADING HOURS:

Wednesday to Friday 9am -2pm Saturday & Sunday 9am -4pm Closed from Monday 21st December 2020 reopen Wednesday 6th January 2021

Vouchers available for Xmas

222 Marine Pde, Hastings Ph: 5906 5900 www.kidzshed.com.au 58

Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

Deliciously decadent treats to help anyone looking to swap to a healthier real food diet, naturally lower in sugar.

Low carb / keto friendly Premium real food ingredients Sugar free, plant based sweeteners used No artificial colours or flavours No GM (genetically modified) ingredients Quick and easy to prepare at home Made with love on the Mornington Peninsula ORDER ONLINE

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Now you can have cake and feel great too

your local wildlife sanctuary

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Fostering self-expression, imagination and original ideas through creative arts

By Pat Barbieri

T

he other morning, I sat with my Pre-Prep class and introduced the ‘languages of learning’ concept to my group of 4-yearolds. We discussed how people can express themselves with their words, with their body movements and with their actions.

As a group, we start to explore the many different types of languages and, before long, we realise that not all languages are spoken. They can include painting, drawing, sculpture, collage, construction and even photography. What we discover, however, is that all languages help us express ourselves and learn further.

At 3 and 4 years of age, children are inquisitive, excitable and curious.

They are forming connections – with each other and their environment - and learning how to express their thoughts, emotions and ideas. It is because of this that exposure to the creative arts at a young age is so significant. Not only in developing each child’s physical, emotional and cognitive capabilities, but also in cultivating their imagination and creating the foundation for them to thrive in their future.

Inspiration leads to expression.

Creative arts have always been considered to be an expressive pastime, and this holds true for 3 and 4-year-old children as well, as they use all that surrounds them as inspiration to explore their feelings and develop their own original ideas. Every week, I see children take inspiration from painters such as Monet, popular books such as 60

Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

The Very Hungry Caterpillar, their local surroundings or indigenous culture and use creative arts as a way to reflect their world and express their ideas, thoughts and feelings.

Exploration and experimentation set the foundation for future learning.

Research tells us that children learn best when they are encouraged to actively explore and experiment. The beauty of creative arts is its open-endedness. Be it through exploring a range of art forms or by experimenting with colours, patterns and textures, this can spark the curiosity of our youngest learners and help them develop dispositions for future learning including curiosity, cooperation, confidence, enthusiasm and persistence.

The power of imagination and reflection.

Children need to be given the freedom to imagine, express themselves and work through problems. Through creative arts, children are encouraged to take risks, think outside the box and ponder new approaches as they create and solve problems. They work on their own or with their peers, often sharing their thoughts and excitement in the process. Importantly, creative arts also provides children with the opportunity to continuously absorb the beliefs and perspectives of others and reflect on their own beliefs and perspectives as they seek to make meaning of the world.

Pat Barbieri is the director of early learning at Toorak College.

Sanctuary of Early Learning

With over 20 years experience, we are committed to continuous quality care and to ensure a full balanced development for each child in our expansive natural learning environment.

Curiosity and wonder lead to a natural desire to learn

Your most precious people are our priority

Frankston House Sanctuary of Early Learning 1-3 Vera Street Frankston E info@frankstonhouse.com.au P 9783 1117 W frankstonhouse.com.au

Brand new Seaford centre opening in early 2021.

Register your interest now.

Mt Eliza House Sanctuary of Early Learning 41 Baden Powell Place Mt Eliza E info@mtelizahouse.com.au P 9787 0788 W mtelizahouse.com.au

Seaford House Sanctuary of Early Learning 6-10 Govan Street, Seaford E info@seafordhouse.com.au P 8796 3000 W seafordhouse.com.au www.peninsulakids.com.au

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FIND

YOUR

‘Project Enlighten’ nurtures young learners so they can develop their sense of self and connection to others while exploring the world around them.

toorakcollege.vic.edu.au/earlylearning

A Peninsula Kids' special feature to guide you through some of the peninsula and surrounding areas best educational facilities for your child's schooling from early learning through to high school with some now offering online virtual tours of their facilities. Go to:

peninsulakids.com.au

www.peninsulakids.com.au 63

ST JOHN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL

Love is life at St John's Over this Christmas period, we encourage everyone to pause and reflect on the year that was.

Consider the sorts of things that you are grateful for now that 2020 is coming to a close and the sorts of things you are looking forward to for 2021.

As a Catholic School, the Faith and person of Jesus Christ is central to our mission. We live out St John’s repeated call to follow the commandment Jesus gave to us all ‘to love one another as he loved’.

That message challenged the people of Jesus’ time and continues to challenge people today.

His message of hope and love cannot be heard loud enough in our world and it is our children that we must love and fill with hope to overcome some of the challenges

11 Jayne Mentone St, Parade, Frankston Mentone VICVIC. 31993194

we have inadvertently set them.

Challenges in our environment, challenges to peace in the world and certainly challenges in establishing a great deal more understanding in our lives.

At St John’s we have high expectations of our children, both in relation to their learning and their behaviour. We expect them to be well mannered and respectful of all members of our school community and do the best they can in their learning. We are also there to help them when they fail, to pick them up and encourage them to continue in the face of adversity. This can be seen in everything we do, from our House Team Athletics days to the Social Justice programs we run and in the day to day interactions with the children in our care.

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Our aim is to ensure that all students experience what success feels like and we offer a wide range of specialist classes to challenge different skills and intelligences, from language skills to our highly successful Digital technology and coding and robotics program which all students from Foundation to Grade 6 are able to experience.

We believe that students should learn how to foster a love of learning. To become lifelong learners, problem solvers, risktakers and above all, to believe in hope, justice and doing the right thing by others. If this sounds like something you would like for your child. Give us a call and let us help you shape your child’s future.

Derek Bruitzman (Principal)

www.mentonegirls.vic.edu.au www.sjfrankstoneast.catholic.edu.au

JOHN PAUL COLLEGE

A vibrant learning community John Paul College is a coeducational Catholic Secondary School in Frankston, with a commitment to maintaining an environment and culture where all members of the College community experience a sense of belonging and are recognised as unique individuals.

Principal Mr John Visentin says “John Paul College is a vibrant learning community where each student is supported and challenged to achieve excellence.

We offer an education that promotes resilience and faith in action. We are committed to maintaining high positive expectations and are attentive to the needs, goals and abilities of every student.�

At the heart of the College is the desire for each student to flourish across religious, physical, cognitive, emotional and social domains. Students enjoy coming to school as their personal narrative is known, respected and valued.

A diverse and rich curriculum is provided in all year levels to ensure interests, talents and aspirations are catered for and nurtured.

161 McMahons Rd, Frankston VIC 3199

We aim to challenge students; to inspire them to achieve, to explore, to understand different ways of thinking and to take advantage of the many opportunities that are available to them. An array of extracurricular activities are on offer at John Paul College, including sports, debating, public speaking, community service, youth ministry, social justice, chess club and performing arts.

John Paul College offers students the opportunity to experience community life in a faith-filled environment. Each student is invited to develop their personal faith through sacramental celebration, prayer, liturgy, year level retreats, social justice initiatives, fundraising efforts and immersion programs to the Philippines, East Timor and India.

The College grounds are large and beautifully landscaped, providing plenty of space for students to learn and socialise. Our state-of-the-art facilities include a modern and well-appointed Resource Centre, sporting grounds and courts, Individual Learning Centre, VCAL dedicated

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classrooms and fully equipped Food Technology Centre and Science laboratories.

The Ngargee Centre for Performing and Visual Arts is a wonderfully appointed space; comprising modern facilities for music, drama, dance, media and fine arts. Involvement in the Arts provides students with the platform to develop their creativity and confidence in a supportive, challenging and engaging environment.

Sporting opportunities are wide and varied for students at all year levels in both individual and team competitions. Students of all skill levels are encouraged to participate through the House Swimming, Athletics and Crosscountry carnivals and those who excel are supported to go on to higher level competitions at regional, state and national levels.

Discover what makes John Paul College a place to learn, grow and thrive via our Online Tour Experience videos. Take the tour at jpc.vic.edu.au.

www.jpc.vic.edu.au

MT ELIZA HOUSE FRANKSTON HOUSE SEAFORD HOUSE SANCTUARY OF EARLY LEARNING

Register now for 2021 Kindergarten Program Mt Eliza House Sanctuary of Early Learning and Frankston House Sanctuary of Early Learning are both privatelyowned. We provide a Long day Care facility and government registered Kindergarten.

Our educators acknowledge the diverse ways in which individuals learn in our ever-changing world, and support and nurture each child’s learning journey.

Learning environments are provided to assist young ones to become curious, confident and caring decision makers.

We invite you to visit and take a tour of our facilities today.

Our commitment at Mt Eliza House is to provide a homelike environment where each individual child can thrive. All children have the right to grow and learn in their own way, at their own pace, allowing them to gently unfold to reach their full potential.

With large natural outdoor play spaces, the children spend their days exploring their world, creating positive friendships and developing empathy and respect. Our curriculum reinforces connections with nature and encourages self-reliance, problem solving and creativity.

Mt Eliza, 41 Baden Powell Place Mt Eliza VIC 3199

9787 0788

www.mtelizahouse.com.au

Frankston, 1-3 Vera Street Frankston VIC 3930

9783 1117

www.frankstonhouse.com.au

Seaford, 6-10 Govan Street, Seaford VIC 3198

8796 3000

www.seafordhouse.com.au

ST FRANCIS XAVIER PRIMARY SCHOOL

Aspiring to Challenge and Empower St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School is an inclusive and innovative learning community located in the heart of Frankston. We offer a high level of individual care and attention to children and their families that only a small school can provide.

Our school vision is ‘An Inclusive Community, Connected through Faith, Aspiring to Challenge and Empower’. We are committed to this vision and ensure that every child is supported to feel safe, valued and connected.

As a small school of around 150 students, we are able to provide a rich, engaging and individualised learning experience for every child who enrols at our school. All students experience success and personal achievement. Our

8 Park Street, Frankston, VIC 3199

learning environment is vibrant, fun, engaging and focused on enhancing the children’s love of learning.

A wide range of learning experiences are always offered as the school continues to embrace innovation and progressive thinking. Recently, our senior Robotics team placed 2nd in the RoboCup Junior Australian Open. We were also extremely proud to acknowledge the efforts of a team of Grade 5/6 Performing Arts students, who were selected as the ‘Best Young Filmmakers’ at the International Youth Silent Film Festival. These are just two examples of how a school small in numbers can still achieve great things.

At St Francis Xavier, we genuinely put the child’s

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wellbeing at the forefront of everything that we do.

We embrace our diverse community and recognise the dignity of each individual.

Our staff understand that children need to feel a sense of belonging, purpose and connectedness in their lives to flourish and this is the type of school environment that we strive to provide.

We believe that ‘every day is an open day’ here at St Francis Xavier. We welcome school tours any day of the week and look forward to welcoming new families into our thriving school community.

St Francis Xavier Primary School E: principal@sfxfrankston catholic.edu.au

www.sfxfrankston.catholic.edu.au

MENTONE GIRLS' GRAMMAR

Quality teaching, a focus on student wellbeing and an inspired curriculum We believe children are never too young to be challenged as we help them achieve their goals driven by a genuine love of learning. As an open-entry school, we accept students of all talents and abilities, faiths and cultures. We are consistently ranked among the top schools in Melbourne and our students regularly win prizes for sporting, artistic and academic endeavour.

We also have an impressive track record of VCE success and university entry. This is why since 1899, generations of students, staff and parents have been proud to be part of our vibrant learning community.

Our beautiful beachfront location has inspired our WAVES priorities. These key principles guide the way we meet the particular learn- ing needs of girls by contributing to their Wellbeing, Achievement, positive Values, Enterprising nature and Success. These priorities contribute to the unique culture and success of our school,

11 Mentone Parade, Mentone VIC. 3194

as well as our personalised approach to learning.

In our Early Learning Centre (ELC), specialist early childhood teachers recognise the different ages and stages within each class and provide tailored activities so every girl has power over her own learning.

We provide a highly developed program of intentional teaching based on the principles of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program (PYP) which supports a unique blend of inquiry and play-based learning.

We can see the benefits of our education, not only in how ready our girls are to enter Prep, but how advanced their reading and writing skills are, as well as their social and emotional confidence.

This is why we are currently rated as “Exceeding National Quality Standards� in the national ELC Frameworks Accreditation.

The PYP framework is extended in our Junior School as students develop more complex

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intellectual, emotional and social skills. They are exposed to a diverse program of inquiry and challenged in many areas from music and STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), to financial and digital literacy, cultural understanding, leadership and social enterprise. They are encouraged to try new things, take-risks and be bold, tapping into their interests and passions. Teachers develop a rich picture of every student’s learning successes, strengths and challenges, and each girl is supported to grow and develop to her full potential.

As a result, our Junior School is recognised as one of the best in the state and consistently ranked well above state and national averages in the NAPLAN literacy and numeracy testing. Most importantly, our students develop confidence, capability and self-worth that are great assets to them in their senior years and beyond.

www.mentonegirls.vic.edu.au

A AD DV V EE N NT TU UR RO OU U SS

MINDS are expressive and imaginative. are expressive and imaginative.

Original, passionate and persistent.

Original, passionate and persistent.

Adventurous Minds create and innovate, They are ready to find a different path, an original vision.

Adventurous Minds create and innovate, They are ready to find a different path, an original vision.

JOIN OUR ONLINE INFORMATION SESSION WITH THE PRINCIPAL , DAVID BAKER JOIN OUR ONLINE INFORMATION SESSION NOW VIA WEBSITE Tue 23 February 7.30pm – BOOK WITH THE PRINCIPAL , DAVID BAKER www.woodleigh.school/enrol Tue 23 February 7.30pm – BOOK NOW VIA WEBSITE CAMPUS TOURS www.woodleigh.school/enrol Contact ourTOURS Enrolments Team for more details regarding our tours during the COVID-19 period.

CAMPUS Contact our Enrolments Team for more details regarding our tours during the COVID-19 period.

L I M I T E D P L AC E S AVA I L A B L E F O R 2 0 21 L I M I T E D P L AC E S AVA I L A B L E F O R 2 0 21

5971 6100 5971 6100

Yr 6 Production Yr 6 Production

woodleigh.vic.edu.au woodleigh.vic.edu.au

School Aged

Book Reviews

1.

2.

2. HOT DOG! #8 ART TIME!

1. EDDY POPCORN’S GUIDE TO PARENT TRAINING

BY ANH DO, 5+yrs, Scholastic, p/b, $12.99

BY DEE WHITE, 8+yrs, Scholastic, p/b, $14.99

The school holidays have started and EDDY POPCORN is about to turn twelve. Then disaster strikes—Eddy is GROUNDED for not doing his homework. Parents suck!

Faced with not seeing the beach, or his mates, for the WHOLE holidays, Eddy puts all of his frustration into a helpful book for kids: EDDY POPCORN’S GUIDE TO PARENT TRAINING. Chock FULL of laughs and mushrooms, this guide is sure to be a HIT!

4.

In 1942, in the Grand Mosque in Paris, 11-year-old Ruben is hiding from the Nazis. Already thousands of Jewish children have disappeared, and Rubens parents are desperately trying to find his sister. Ruben must learn how to pass himself off as a Muslim, while he waits for the infamous Fox to help him get to Spain to be reunited with his family.

One hint of Ruben's true identity and he'll be killed. So will the people trying to save him. But when the mosque is raided and the Fox doesn't come, Ruben is forced to flee.

Finding himself in the south of France, he discovers that he must adjust to a new reality, and to the startling revelation of the Fox's true identity.

Win!

3. ELLA DIARIES #19 PASSION FOR FASHION

BY MEREDITH COSTAIN, 7+yrs, Scholastic, p/b, $14.99

The School Disco is just around the corner and Ella has an idea for a costume that will be aDORable. And also EXcellent. And fanTABulously fabulous! Soon, using Mum’s old sewing machine, Ella is stitching and gluing super-stylish outfits and costumes. When all her friends start sewing too, Ella realises that she’s not the only one with a passion for fashion.

She’s started an aMAZing sewing CRAZE!!

6.

5. PEARL #4 THE HAPPY UNICORN

BY DEE WHITE, 9+yrs, Scholastic, p/b, $17.99

Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

Hotdog, Kev and Lizzie enter an art contest at the local museum. But what happens when someone steals the most famous painting there—the Llama Lisa!?

Can Hotdog and his friends chase down the robbers?

5.

4. BEYOND BELIEF

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3.

BY SALLY ODGERS, 6+yrs, p/b, Scholastic, $12.99

Pearl, Olive and Tweet go to a festival for ogres called Ogrefest! Pearl and Tweet dress up and have so much fun eating, singing and dancing... until a group of smelly gobble-uns crash the festival!

Is the whole day ruined? Or can Pearl and her friends save Ogrefest?

6. THE ODD 1S OUT: THE FIRST SEQUEL

BY JAMES RALLISON, 8+yrs, Scholastic, p/b, $19.99

The sequel to The New York Times best-selling The Odd 1s Out, from YouTube phenomenon James Rallison whose YouTube videos are all about his 'odd' behavior. With over 13 million subscribers and millions more followers on social media, these animations have found their way into the hearts of fans who also feel like a bit of an odd one. In this second instalment in the Odd 1s Out series, James is back with characters, stories, and opinions, including: The upside of the robot uprising Questionable pizza toppings Strange yet completely reasonable fears Inventions that don't exist, but should. Offering advice on accepting your quirks and growing up in the Internet age, The Odd 1s Out: The First Sequel is sure to be a musthave for old and new fans alike.

Prize pack of the reviewed books, go to; www.peninsulakids.com.au/giveaways

www.peninsulakids.com.au

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Recipes

.COM.AU

you can have your cake and feel great too!

L

inda is very proud to introduce the range of Simply Swap Foods premix products which are here to help you on your low sugar journey. All of the products are low carb, keto friendly, sugar free, use premium real food ingredients and plant based sweeteners, have no artificial colours or flavours, no genetically modified ingredients, are pet friendly (no xylitol), super easy to prepare at home and taste great. Plus they are all made with love right here on the Mornington Peninsula.

PERFECT PORRIDGE – VANILLA BEAN AND CINNAMON

Check out the range online at www.simplyswapfoods.com.au and follow Linda on her Facebook and Instagram pages for regular updates, photos and recipes.

With lots of fibre from the flaxseed meal and chia seeds and antioxidants from the pure organic cacao, this blend is full of nutritious goodness and can be enjoyed hot or cold. Really yum topped with full-fat greek yoghurt and summer berries.

VOLUPTUOUS VANILLA CUPCAKES Containing premium ground vanilla beans, these are so easy to prepare and are perfect for anyone wanting to minimise their sugar intake at family celebrations. Delicious on their own or top with cream cheese icing (recipe on website) or fold through some berries for extra indulgence.

CHEEKY CHOCOLATE CUPCAKES Containing pure organic cacao full of antioxidants, these are a decadant dessert treat that look amazing on a dessert platter alongside fresh berries and whipped cream.

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A delicious blend of flaxseed meal, chia seeds and sweet spices which can be enjoyed hot or cold any time of day. Add some whipped cream and berries for a very indulgent treat.

PERFECT PORRIDGE – VANILLA BEAN AND CACAO

About Linda

After changing to a low-sugar real food diet over three years ago and experiencing huge health improvements, Linda wanted to create some Australian-made products to help others on a similar journey.

The biggest challenge she had at the start of changing to a low sugar eating style was finding an easy replacement for her beloved sweet treats, especially at family celebrations. Drawing on her background as a cookbook author and food writer, Linda spent many months in the kitchen fine-tuning the recipes that are used in these mixes. Please check out Linda’s website for more details and know that she’ll be doing a super happy dance every time someone places an order.

Baked Chocolate Crumble

20 PREP

COOK

TOTAL PREP

20 SERVES TOTAL COOK

SERVES

This is a beautiful sweet treat, really delicious as a dessert served with ice cream or makes a lovely addition to an afternoon tea platter.

Ingredients

CRUST: 2 cups almond meal ½ cup natvia sweetener (or similar granulated sweetener) 1½ tblsp coconut flour 4½ tblsp butter, melted 1 tsp vanilla essence FILLING: ¾ cup pure cream 1/3 cup natvia sweetener (or similar granulated sweetener) 85g dark chocolate (min. 70% cocoa), chopped ½ tsp vanilla essence ¼ tsp xanthan gum

Method

Preheat oven to 170°C f/forced and grease and line base of square 20cm tin with non-stick baking paper.

1. Place almond meal, sweetener and coconut flour in a large bowl and stir to combine well, ensuring no lumps.

2. Add melted butter and vanilla and combine until mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

3. Press approx two thirds of the mixture into the prepared baking pan and bake for 10 minutes until just golden on the edges (not cooked through).

4. Prepare filling by placing cream and sweetener in a medium saucepan over low heat until just starting to simmer. Remove from heat, add chopped chocolate and whisk together until melted and smooth.

5. Stir vanilla through chocolate mixture then sprinkle xanthan gum on top and whisk again to combine fully.

6. Pour the chocolate mixture over the crust and spread gently to cover edges.

7. Sprinkle the top of slice evenly with remaining crumble mixture.

8. Bake further 20-25 minutes until topping is golden brown.

9. Allow to cool before slicing as filling will become firm as it cools.

www.peninsulakids.com.au 73

Decadent Dessert Platter

Ingredients CREAMY CHOCOLATE CUSTARD

This stunning platter is perfect for any celebration party table.

Pile high with your choice of berries and add bowls of deliciously creamy chocolate custard along with chocolate cheesecake mousse.

Ingredients CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE MOUSSE ½ cup pure cream 2 tblsp natvia sweetener (or similar granulated sweetener) 3 tsp vanilla essence 150g cream cheese, softened 60g dark chocolate, min. 70% cocoa

Method

1. Melt chocolate by breaking into pieces and placing in microwavesafe bowl on high for 1 minute. Remove and stir. If not fully melted, microwave further 30 secs at a time.

2. Place cream, natvia and vanilla in large bowl and use hand mixer to beat on medium speed until soft peaks form.

3. Gradually add small chunks of softened cream cheese to mixture and continue beating until combined and smooth.

4. Add melted chocolate to mixture and beat together on low speed, scraping down sides of bowl to incorporate fully.

5. Spoon into large serving dish or individual bowls as required.

6. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for an hour to set further prior to serving.

74 Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

600ml pure cream 2 egg yolks 1/3 cup natvia sweetener (or similar granulated sweetener) ½ tblsp vanilla essence 3 tblsp cocoa powder 50g dark chocolate (min. 70% cocoa) 2 tsp gelatin powder

Method

1. Place cream, egg yolks, sweetener, vanilla and cocoa in medium saucepan and whisk together.

2. Break chocolate into pieces and place in saucepan.

3. Sprinkle gelatin powder on top of mixture in saucepan and whisk to combine.

4. Heat over low heat while continually whisking until mixture is steaming and just below simmer point .

Remove from heat.

5. Pour into heatproof bowl (or serving dish) and place in fridge to cool until set (at least 4 hours or preferably overnight). To avoid a "skin" forming on top of custard, seal top of bowl with plastic wrap touching the top of the liquid before placing in fridge to cool. The wrap peels off easily once custard is set.

Mini Berry Cheesecakes

20 PREP

COOK

TOTAL PREP

12 SERVES TOTAL COOK

SERVES

These cheesecakes are great for functions plus keep really well stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week (if they last that long!)

Ingredients

BASE: 1½ cups almond meal flour ¼ cup butter, melted

FILLING: 250g cream cheese, softened 1 large egg 1 tsp vanilla essence 2 tsp lemon juice 2 tsp lemon zest ½ cup natvia sweetener (or similar granulated sweetener)

Method

Preheat oven to 170°C f/forced and grease and line 12-hole muffin tray with paper cases.

1. Mix almond meal and melted butter together with a fork then press spoonfuls of mixture evenly and firmly into lined muffin tray cases.

2. Bake for 8-10 minutes until they are starting to brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool while making filling.

3. Place cream cheese in a large bowl and beat with hand beater until smooth.

4. Add all other filling ingredients and beat until well combined.

5. Carefully spoon filling mixture onto prepared muffin bases and bake for 15-20 minutes. Cheesecakes should be golden brown on top.

6. Allow to cool in muffin pan for 15 minutes then transfer to fridge to airtight container in fridge to cool. Biscuit base will be completely firm if left overnight in fridge. If needed sooner, place in freezer for an hour to set.

7. Remove from paper cases and serve with fresh berries on top and smooth.

5. Stir vanilla through chocolate mixture then sprinkle xanthan gum on top and whisk again to combine fully.

6. Pour the chocolate mixture over the crust and spread gently to cover edges.

7. Sprinkle the top of slice evenly with remaining crumble mixture.

8. Bake further 20-25 minutes until topping is golden brown.

9. Allow to cool before slicing as filling will become firm as it cools.

www.peninsulakids.com.au 75

Vanilla Berry Cupcakes (with dark choc icing)

Method 10 PREP

COOK

PREP TOTAL

12 COOK SERVES TOTAL

SERVES

These cupcakes are super fast to get together, perfect for when unexpected visitors arrive over the summer holidays.

Un-iced cupcakes freeze really well for up to four weeks and only take about 30 minutes to defrost at room temperature.

Ingredients

1 x pack Simply Swap Foods Vanilla Cupcake Mix 1 cup strawberries, chopped ½ cup salted butter, melted (125g) 3 large eggs ½ cup preferred milk 1 cup strawberries, chopped

76 Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

Preheat oven to 170°C f/forced and grease and line 12-hole muffin tray with paper cases.

1. Pour entire dry mix contents into a large bowl and stir to mix well.

2. Add chopped berries to dry mix and combine.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs and milk.

4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and fold together gently.

5. Pour mixture into lined muffin tray and bake for 20-25 mins or until cakes spring back when lightly touched in centre (or a skewer inserted into centre of cake comes out clean).

6. Leave cakes in pan for 5 minutes before removing to cool on wire rack.

7. Ensure cakes are cold before topping with dark choc icing.

SIMPLE DARK CHOC ICING: 80g dark chocolate (min. 70% cocoa) 1 tsp coconut oil 1. Melt chocolate by breaking into pieces and placing in microwave safe bowl with coconut oil on high for 1 minute.

Remove and stir. If not fully melted, microwave further 30 secs at a time if needed. Stir well once melted.

2. Spread melted chocolate mixture on top of cold cupcakes and top with extra chopped berries.

One Bowl Pancakes (with choc fudge sauce)

20 PREP

COOK

TOTAL PREP

10 SERVES TOTAL COOK

SERVES

These pancakes are so quick to make and taste exactly like traditional pancakes. With a great hit of fibre from the psyllium husk and antioxidants from the cinnamon, you can feel super healthy while enjoying your delicious breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients

1/3 cup almond flour 1 tsp baking powder ½ tblsp psyllium husk 1 tsp cinnamon ½ cup full fat Greek yoghurt 2 large eggs (Butter or coconut oil for cooking in pan)

RICH CHOCOLATE FUDGE SAUCE: (makes approx. 300ml) 1 cup thickened cream 100g dark chocolate, min. 70% cocoa 2 tsp natvia 1 tsp vanilla essence

Method

1. Place all ingredients into a large bowl and whisk together until smooth.

2. Melt butter/oil in heated frying pan and pour spoonfuls of mixture (around 10cm) into hot pan.

3. Wait until pancake has lots of bubbles and looks firm before flipping. Cook on second side a few more minutes then remove from heat.

4. Melt extra butter/oil in pan before each new batch to ensure no sticking. Turn heat down so they cook well without burning.

5. Serve with chocolate sauce, warmed berries, whipped cream or sugar free maple syrup.

RICH CHOCOLATE FUDGE SAUCE: 1. Break chocolate into pieces and place with all other ingredients in small saucepan.

2. Whisk continuously over low heat until just below simmer point then remove from heat.

3. Pour into jug to serve over your favourite dessert or ice cream.

www.peninsulakids.com.au 77

Health

78 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2020

Tweens Tweens first first period8 period8

By Elizabeth Chapman

E

lizabeth Chapman, mother of 3 teenage daughters, gives the low down of how to approach that first period talk.

If your tween has started being grumpy for no apparent reason, answering back, or crying and doing a lot of extra sleeping, it’s a sign that their hormones have really kicked in and they’re in the early stages of puberty. And if you haven’t had a conversation about periods with your tween yet, then you need to. Otherwise they will hear about it on the playground and you have no control over what they are told.

Periods can start anytime between 8-14yo, with the average age being 12. Just keep it light and matter-of-fact. You can add lots of little conversations into everyday situations to build on the ‘period talk’. The first signs can come long before the moods come and include body odour (particularly underarms), break-outs or tiny spots on their face. Small breast buds develop and pubic hair starts growing. Start by teaching proper body hygiene. Encourage them to shower daily, focusing on their face, underarms and vulva.

You may notice a light discharge on your tweens underwear (clear or white). This usually occurs around ovulation and your tweens body may start cycling for 3 to 12 months before their first actual ‘blood discharge’ period. This is all normal.

Casually point it out to them. And mood changes, headaches and tummy cramps (PMS) may accompany this cycling, so encourage your tween to take note of the pattern.

An easy way to introduce sanitary items to the conversation is to leave a box of tampons, or a pad or your menstrual cup out and let the questions come. And then make a ‘First Period Survival Kit’ together. This is essential! You’ll need one for home and one for the school bag. A pencil case or small make-up bag will do the trick and should include a spare pair of underwear, a pad (disposable or cloth) or a pair of period underwear. Talk about how to use the products and go through what they would do if they got their first period at school or a friend’s place or while you were at work or away.

Make sure you cover all the options when talking to your tween about sanitary products and allow them to own their period by choosing the products they want to use. Modern cloth pads and period underwear are brilliant for younger tweens and offer sustainable options that will save a fortune in the long term. Menstrual cups are suitable or teens who are more confident with their period and can take a few cycles to master.

Remember to talk to your tween about periods in a factual and positive environment, as this will build confidence and normalises their attitude towards menstruating and their changing body.

Elizabeth is a registered nurse and director of lunette menstrual cups australia. a mother to three sporty teenage daughters, she has a passion not only for women's health but also to help and inspire other women to be the best that they can be - all month, every month! the lunette menstrual cup and sustainable period project fit perfectly into this vision. www.peninsulakids.com.au 79

Nutrition experts reveal 12 essential food skills every

A

ustralian children have more access to information on healthy eating than ever before, yet busy family lifestyles and ‘convenience culture’ are eroding opportunities for children to learn essential skills that support healthier dietary patterns that may hold the key to better lifetime physical and mental health outcomes.

That’s why the nutrition experts at Sanitarium Health Food Company have joined forces with dietitian Themis Chryssidis and Masterchef™ fan favourite Callum Hann from Adelaide’s acclaimed Sprout Cooking School to develop a new initiative to help children shop, prep, cook and eat their way to a healthier life.

Called 12 before 12, the initiative encourages families to empower primary-school aged children around meal selection and food preparation. It challenges children to learn 12 essential food skills before they turn 12 years old, with the aim of making healthy eating easier and enjoyable for life.

Grouped into four key areas, the 12 before 12 skills cover the complete food journey from planning meals and choosing nutritious options at the shops, through to the hands-on tools and techniques children need in the kitchen and the social behaviours that make mealtimes a positive experience for the whole family.

SHOPPING

SPEEDY SHOPPER

Pick a few tasty and nutritious recipes, add the ingredients to the shopping list and zoom around the supermarket to grab it all. Have one ingredient in each food category, and some of the same ingredients across each recipe to avoid wastage. Stocking up on ingredients such as nuts or oats can be used to make a delicious crunchy breakfast, while also used to make those yummy afternoon snacks.

Whimsy & wonderment will wash over the kids as they set sail across the big blue, looking for dolphins and creating treasured memories the family will never forget.

Family day out on the ferry starting from $37 80

Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

Australian child needs for healthier lifetime eating habits.

EATING

LABEL LINGO

Read and understand a nutrition label in minutes and use this information to decide which foods you will cook with and eat. Understand what foods are high in fibre, what foods are great for energy and what foods are a great source of protein to grow up big and strong.

SEASONAL SELECTOR

Know what is in season and make recipes to hero those foods! Discover what foods have a longer shelf life than others, and how you can choose foods to be used in numerous ways when planning your meals. Tips and tricks on how to tell when a certain food is ready to eat, like the avocado!

PREPARATION

RECIPE READY

Know how to measure your ingredients accurately based on the recipe and have the right equipment on hand to do so i.e. measuring cups.

Learn the difference between ounces and grams, tsp and tbsp and become a whizz at measuring without wastage.

SAFETY INSPECTOR

HEALTHY DJ

Mix up your meals like your favourite DJ while building awareness of portion size and eliminate food waste. We eat with our eyes, but sometimes these are bigger than our stomachs.

TABLE TALK

Wait for everyone else to be seated before you start eating. Chew with your mouth closed, use please and thank you if you need something from the other side of the table, and don’t have a screen in front of you.

Once you’re finished, help wash up!

SECRET INGREDIENT

Put aside quality time at the table to show off your food skills. A shared meal has the power to bring the whole family together – the secret ingredient is a sprinkle of love.

To learn more about the 12 skills and download a free copy of the 12 before 12 cookbook visit www.12before12.sanitarium.com.au

Ensure your kitchen is always safe for operation (non-slip boards, sharp blades and sinks, fire). Keep you and your friends and family happy and healthy! Cross contamination, temperature control, personal hygiene.

CHOP LIKE A BOSS

Know how to slice, dice, grate and peel. Understand differences between chopping technique and what is best for certain foods. For example, how to chop a capsicum without getting seeds everywhere!

COOKING

GRILL MASTER

Master the cooktop and learn to pan fry, stir fry and grill. Discover how to differentiate oven symbols so you are baking and grilling like a pro.

WASTE WARRIOR

Cook up a feast in good measure while learning to minimise food wastage by using ingredients in multiple ways.

PICASSO PLATER

We eat with our eyes, so release the creativity of your inner artist onto your plate. Eat the rainbow! www.peninsulakids.com.au

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Seven tips

By Dr Joanna McMillan

A

pandemic has put broader health concerns front-and-centre for most Aussie parents, with nearly half (47 per cent) reporting that immune health is their biggest concern, according to new research from Bubs Australia. ^

Nutrition plays a big role in immune health, which can leave parents wondering whether kids’ diets are up to scratch. Vitamins are one solution, but almost one-third ^ ^ of parents say they don’t know how vitamins could be useful for their kids.

Here are seven tips for deciding whether your little one needs supplements and how to choose the right type.

1. Identify any nutritional gaps Eighty per cent of parents admit they’ve been concerned their kids aren’t getting enough vitamins in their diet. The first step in addressing this is to take stock of what nutrients your child needs most. Check the Australian Dietary Guidelines and compare the estimated serves of each food group for your child’s age with what you think they eat.

How closely do they match? Are there any food groups that are way off? The further away from these guidelines you are, the more likely your child may be short on one or more nutrients.

2. Consider food allergies and intolerances Allergies and intolerances tend to limit kids’ food options, and supplements might help. Probiotics might be part of the equation since they promote good gut health – the development of normal immune function depends on a varied microbiome (that is, the body’s collection of ‘good’ bacteria, viruses and fungi). In fact, the microbiome ‘trains’ the immune function in the early years of life and may be involved in the development of allergies.

3. Round out the diet of a picky eater Whether your child is just going through a phase or there’s a more prolonged issue, fussy eating makes it trickier to ensure nutrition through diet alone. For example, kids who dislike meat may not be getting enough iron because it’s difficult to absorb enough iron from plant foods. And unless kids eat oily fish or other seafood several times a week, they may not be getting enough long-chain omega-3 fats. A supplement can help fill gaps or top up general nutrition with a multivitamin and mineral formulation.

4. Take health needs into account Does your child have any medical or health problems that impact their food and nutrient intake, such as chronic sickness during infant or toddler years? These children may need nutritional support.

Or, have they needed rounds of antibiotics for repeated ear infections or gastro? They may benefit from a clinically tested probiotic. If they suffer frequent coughs, colds or other infections, they might benefit from additional immune support via nutrients such as zinc and vitamin C, or specific ingredients like colostrum or lactoferrin. Speak to your doctor about whether nutritional support is appropriate.

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5. Consider hard-to-get nutrients Some nutrients are simply hard to get through diet alone – like vitamin D. This is essential for bone development and growth in kids, but its main source is usually sunshine on skin. While it’s important to be sunsafe, there’s a risk of vitamin D deficiency, especially among kids who may not get outside as often.

6. Healthy eating remains most important, but vitamins can support Unfortunately, nutrient deficiencies aren’t always visible to parents, and many take a long time to develop. In the meantime, kids’ growth, immune function and gut health can be impacted. In Australia, four in ten (39%) say they don’t know where to start when it comes to giving their child vitamins. ^ ^ ^ Supplements can never replace a healthy diet, but they can support and offer some peace of mind to parents. This can be especially true when things get hectic – diet diversity and nutrient-rich foods are always the main goals, but working parents usually can’t plan, prepare and supervise every meal or snack. Options created specifically for kids can support everything from growing brains and bones to digestive, immune and general health.

for choosing kids’ vitamins 7. Stick to professional guidance Again, it’s essential to speak to a doctor or dietitian to understand your child’s health needs and how supplements may help. And make sure to stick to the dosage guidelines or as advised by a medical professional.

There is an optimal range for nutrients – more is not always better!

The Vita Bubs™ product range from Bubs Australia is now available in Chemist Warehouse. More information about the Vita Bubs™ range can be found at www.bubsaustralia.com. ^ Bubs® Australia surveyed 1,029 Australian parents with children under the age of 12 in October 2020. The research study was undertaken by independent market research company YouGov on behalf of Bubs® Australia. ^ ^ Bubs® Australia surveyed 1,029 Australian parents with children under the age of 12 in October 2020. The research study was undertaken by independent market research company YouGov on behalf of Bubs® Australia. ^ ^ ^ Bubs® Australia surveyed 1,029 Australian parents with children under the age of 12 in October 2020. The research study was undertaken by independent market research company YouGov on behalf of Bubs® Australia.

www.peninsulakids.com.au

83

By Trung Nguyen Pharmacist, B. Pharm.

H

ayfever is a common allergy, affecting every one in five people in Australia. And while hayfever is usually harmless, it can cause a great deal of physical discomfort among kids and disrupt their sleep — making them irritable and tired which isn’t pleasant for them or their parents.

So, what exactly is hayfever, why does it wreak havoc on us in spring and summer, and what can we do to relieve the symptoms of this allergy among children?

Peninsula Orthodontics loves working with families. Our experienced team will provide you with an individual treatment plan to deliver only exceptional results

Hayfever, also called allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction that occurs when air-borne pollens and dust mites get into the nose, throat and eyes, causing inflammation. If your child is allergic to pollens, then they are likely to experience seasonal hayfever in spring and summer when these plants and trees are actively releasing their pollens.

Capture that perfect smile you will always treasure.

Perennial hayfever on the other hand can happen all year round and is brought on by the presence of dust mites, animal fur or hair, and mould spores.

No referral required.

Specialist Orthodontists Dr Andrew Pepicelli Dr Andrea Phatouros Dr Daniel Sable

5975 5166 134 Tanti Ave Mornington smile@peninsulaortho.com.au www.peninsulaortho.com.au 84

Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

The symptoms of seasonal or perennial hayfever are similar though, and may include a runny or blocked nose, red and watery eyes, itchy throat and roof of the mouth, sneezing and sniffing.

While unfortunately there is no cure for hayfever, thankfully there are preventative measures you can take to minimise your child’s exposure to the allergens that trigger it and provide relief to treat symptoms when they do occur. Here are some of the options.

PREVENTION Reducing or eliminating exposure to the allergens that trigger your child’s hayfever symptoms is the first step you should take to prevent its onset.

If their hayfever is seasonal, try to limit outdoor play on days that are especially warm and windy as this is when pollen is most likely to be circulating. You can track the level of pollen circulating using the Pollen Forecast app.

Managing Children’s Hayfever Allergies You should also try to keep indoor spaces free of dust mites by regularly washing bedlinen and choosing bedding materials that are less likely to harbour dust mites — such as polyester filled quilts instead of feather and down. If you have pets and home, you may try to keep them away from your child’s bedroom and regularly vacuum and dispose of any fur that they shed.

RELIEF The most common relief treatment for hayfever are antihistamines, which help to stop the sneezes, itching and runny nose. For a blocked nose associated with hayfever, a corticosteroid nasal spray is an effective treatment that can be used as needed, either seasonally or all year round.

Avoid giving your child a decongestant nasal spray as these can only be used for a maximum of 5-7 days and can have the effect of drying out and blocking the nose if used beyond that.

Other types of hayfever relief are available over the counter in pharmacies. Look for products designed for children, for example Chemist’s Own Children’s Hayfever Allergy Relief Syrup.

If your child’s hayfever symptoms are severe and persistent, see your GP for advice and a possible referral for specialist immunotherapy.

This involves introducing the allergen to your child in a controlled environment in gradually increasing doses to obtain the effect of eventual desensitisation.

By limiting your child’s exposure to the things that trigger their allergy symptoms and by having appropriate relief at hand, hayfever needn’t stop them from enjoying the spring and summer months being active and playful.

Always read the label. Follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.

Dr Peter A. Scott is a specialist orthodontist offering orthodontic care for children, teens and adults alike in both the Mornington Peninsula and inner Melbourne areas. He is also a consultant orthodontist at the Royal Childrens Hospital.

Specialist Orthodontist Creating Beautiful Smiles On The Peninsula For 30 Years Expertise In Child And Adult Orthodontics Early Assessment Of Dental Development And Facial Growth Ideal Age Of Initial Assessment 7-9 Years Early Intervention Where Appropriate For Best Outcome No Referral Necessary

13 Beach St Frankston

Ph: 9783 4511

www.drpeterscottorthodontist.com.au www.facebook.com/drpeterscottorthodontist www.peninsulakids.com.au

85

Ask The

Experts!

• Providing Specialist Orthodontic Services to the Mornington Peninsula with three locations in Rosebud, Mount Eliza and Hastings.

• The very best in Orthodontic care and technology - clear braces, Invisalign, lingual (hidden) braces.

• Treatment provided in a relaxed environment.

• Highest quality care provided by our Orthodontist.

NO REFERRAL NEEDED. CONTACT US TO FIND OUT HOW WE CAN HELP YOU ACHIEVE THE SMILE YOU ALWAYS WANTED.

CALL US ON

9787 3849

“Lighte enjoy life n up, just , laugh m smile more, ore, and don get so w orked u ’t p about th ings” -Kenneth Branagh

My teenage son would like to straighten his teeth but is not keen on the idea of braces. Is there another option other than braces that could be suitable for my son?

The good news is that there is an alternative to traditional braces. Clear aligner treatment (e.g. Invisalign, Spark) is becoming a popular choice not only for adults but also teenagers. Clear aligner treatment, involves a series of sequential clear plastic aligners that are removable, and are a discreet way to improve your son’s smile (or yours).

Clear aligners are far more comfortable than braces and are not as visible (sometimes called “invisible braces”) because there are no wires required. Your son would be able to maintain good oral hygiene, as the aligners need to be removed when brushing and flossing and eating. They do require compliance to ensure effective tooth movement. The aligners need to be worn for a minimum of 22 hours a day for one to two weeks before progressing to the next aligner and so gradually the teeth move over time. Clear aligners may not be suitable for some complicated orthodontic problems.

If you are considering clear aligner treatment for your son, then I would recommend a consultation with an orthodontist to discuss whether clear aligners would be suitable. Perhaps it could be something you may consider for yourself.

Dr Andrea Phatouros

CALL NOW FOR MT ELIZA, ROSEBUD & HASTINGS BOOKINGS

122 Mt Eliza Way, Mt Eliza & 1533 Point Nepean Rd, Rosebud West 140 Salmon St, Hastings mteliza@hanksorthodontics.com.au 86

Peninsula Kids – Summer 2020/21

BDSc (WA), FRACDS, MDSc (Ortho) Specialist Orthodontist Peninsula Orthodontics 134 Tanti Avenue Mornington

LUCAS

To alleviate symptoms, you could try shaking out your hands or gently massaging the wrists.

AL I ST

This is most likely to be carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Increased swelling in your body is a common part of pregnancy. Carpal tunnel syndrome is when this swelling causes pressure on a nerve located in your wrist (the median nerve) which causes tingling, numbness and pain in the hand and fingers. The symptoms can get worse overnight and in the morning. It often settles during the day.

TRIC DENTIST A I S ED A P

SPECI

I am in my second trimester and I have some tingling and pains in my hands that seem to worse in the morning.

Any ideas what this could be?

DENTAL CARE

Whilst it is not serious, if it is a nuisance, you could consider wearing wrist splints, available from some larger pharmacies.

These splints look a bit like roller skating wrist guards and are worn on the hands to keep the wrists straight. They help to reduce the swelling and relieve the pressure on the nerve.

Some activities may exacerbate the problem such as typing, playing an instrument or using vibrating tools. So try to cut down these activities or stop altogether while you are experiencing CTS. If symptoms persist, speak to your GP, obstetrician or see a physiotherapist.

Dr Jolyon Ford Obstetrician and author of Pregnancy Wellbeing Instagram & Facebook: @pregnancywellbeing

134 TANTI AVENUE, MORNINGTON 3931

597 5 9334 Dr James Lucas Dr Caroline Howarth Dr Giselle D’Mello and introducing Dr Sara Shayegan

lucas dental care proudly sponsors polyglot theatre

www.peninsulakids.com.au

87

WHERE

TO HAVE

YOUR

BABY

By Jolyon Ford

T

he model of care and the location of care are obviously closely related. As can be seen, some providers offer home birth services, others are based in a hospital.

According to US data, nearly 100% of births were outside hospitals in 1900, 44% in 1940 and 1% by 1969. Since then 9899% of births have been in a hospital. The same pattern is seen in most developed countries. After the Second World War, the ability to manage infection with antibiotics and haemorrhage with new drugs, surgery, anaesthesia and blood transfusion resulted in a significant drop in maternal death rates. In addition, standards of maternity care improved. Hospitals gained the reputation as the safest place to have your baby, although this may have been due to improvements in practice rather than the location of the birth.

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Home birth has continued in small numbers in most developed countries, accounting for around 0.5-2% of births in Australia, the US and the UK, 3-4% in New Zealand but as high as 20% in the Netherlands. The recent empowering of women to make informed choice about their care has resulted in an increase in homebirth numbers in the last decade. Sitting somewhere between a home and a hospital birth is a birth centre. These are freestanding or connected with a nearby hospital and provide a low intervention service for low risk women.

Most national organisations acknowledge the right of women to make an informed choice about their location of birth but also advise that consideration is given to the individual circumstances and that those who are considered higher risk should have their birth in a hospital. Speak to your practitioner or do some investigating to find what services are available for you locally. There is no harm in arranging an appointment with a practitioner to discuss your options before you commit. continued next page...

www.peninsulakids.com.au

89

HOSPITAL

BIRTH Hospitals vary significantly from small rural hospitals to large city centres.

Not surprisingly, smaller hospitals tend to manage lower risk cases and large town or city hospitals manage ones of greater complexity. This can mean that you plan to have your baby at your local hospital but if you go into labour very prematurely or develop an early complication such as pre-eclampsia you may be advised to transfer to a bigger hospital where more resources are available. Fortunately, these complications are rare and most women will give birth in their planned hospital. If you have medical issues, speak to your team about whether this would influence the location of birth. Most maternity hospitals provide midwifery and obstetric care (sometimes GP obstetricians), anaesthetic support for epidurals and if surgery is needed, operating theatres, paediatricians and neonatal nurses for newborn care, often in a dedicated neonatal unit or special care nursery, pathology for blood tests, radiology for ultrasound, a blood bank or access to blood products in case of bleeding, and the support of other practitioners in the hospital if needed.

Hospitals will have access to other services such as a diabetes unit, and allied health support including physiotherapy, dietetics and social work. This gives them the ability to manage anything from a normal birth through to medical or pregnancy related complications.

HOSPITAL BIRTH Most hospitals have services to cover normal birth, routine and emergency investigations and the management of problems if they arise.

They have urgent access to emergency care and a range of specialist services. Larger hospitals provide high levels of expertise for rare and complex problems.

Provide a more medical model of care that can be associated with higher levels of intervention.

Larger hospital-based services can seem less personal and may not be able to offer one-to-one care. Some smaller hospitals do not offer all services and transfer may be required if preterm birth or more complex issues arise. Private hospital birth is expensive and may not completely+ be covered by insurance.

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BIRTHING

UNIT

Some areas have birthing units that may be on the same site as a hospital, or freestanding in a town or neighbourhood on their own. In the UK, New Zealand and the Netherlands this accounts for around 10% of births. The care is provided by midwives and there is a strong focus on supporting women towards a natural birth with low levels of intervention.

They use less technology and so tend not to use continuous fetal monitoring, vacuum or forceps to assist the birth. Some pain relief options are available, but procedures such as epidurals, instrumental birth or caesareans are not. If issues arise that require medical care, a transfer to the hospital is arranged, which can sometimes delay the care. In one UK study around a third of women having their first baby are transferred, but only 12% having their second required this.

Birthing units have a strong relationship with a local hospital and clear guidelines on when to transfer care. They are not suitable for women who may be at risk of difficulties in labour, or those with medical conditions such as blood pressure problems or diabetes.

Women in birthing units are more likely to achieve a natural vaginal birth, have one to one care in labour, and satisfaction levels are high.

Intervention is lower, even when compared to similar low risk women labouring in a hospital.

BIRTHING UNITS Midwifery led care for low risk pregnancies. Strong focus on natural birth. Good outcomes for vaginal birth rates and lower levels of intervention. No evidence of additional risk for mother or baby.

Around 20% still require transfer if requiring epidural or other medical assistance. First labourers more likely to require transfer. Potential delay in accessing emergency assistance whilst being transferred.

HOME BIRTH Around 1-2% of women have their baby at home. Home can be a warm friendly environment with home comforts, a supportive group around you and for family or close friends to play a more active part in the birth. Many women hire an inflatable pool or use the bathtub for the support and relaxation of water. The room can be set up with music, soft light and aromas to suit your preferences. It is suggested that this more relaxed environment may reduce some of the stress hormones and allow your natural labour hormone, oxytocin, to work more effectively.

There is no doubt from studies that women who labour at home have a greater likelihood of a natural vaginal birth and a lower caesarean section rate. A review of the published literature on place of birth in 2018 found evidence that low risk women who planned a homebirth had a much higher chance of having a natural vaginal birth (91% vs 54%) and so less chance of needing a caesarean (2.1% vs 9.6%) or an assisted vaginal birth with an instrument (6% vs 14%). These differences may not all be due to the location of birth. Women that choose home birth are more likely to be physically healthy, motivated, less likely to have social or medical risk factors, and so we would expect them to have better outcomes as a group. There have been very few trials that randomly allocate women to home or hospital birth so the effects of the differences in the two groups is hard to measure.

People may wonder if the reduced access to all the emergency treatments that hospitals have is a problem. In an emergency, there is no doubt that immediate life saving measures can make a difference.

Examples include a very heavy bleed after the birth (post-partum haemorrhage), an eclamptic seizure or a baby that is not breathing.

A home birth midwife is trained to initiate important life-saving measures whilst calling for help and arranging an urgent transfer to hospital.

In almost all cases, this is sufficient until you get to the hospital where further care can be given. Whilst it is possible that this delay may cause problems, the chances of it happening are rare. For this reason, home birth is safest when you have a skilled home birth midwife who has a good relationship with the local hospital and a clear protocol on when transfer is appropriate. When looking at low risk cases, the safety outcomes for mother and baby are similar or a little better for homebirth compared to hospital birth. So a well organised homebirth program for low risk women is considered safe.

Studies have also shown that when higher risk women labour at home complication rates including the loss of the baby (9.3 in 1000 vs 3.5 in 1000) are more common than in hospital. In one study, the commonest risk factors for a bad outcome at home were having a previous caesarean and being post-term (over 42 weeks).

Transfer rates into hospital vary. In a review of 15 studies from around the world, around 39% of women in their first labour required a transfer during or after the birth. For women having their second baby or more, the transfer rate was 10%. Overall, only 3% had emergency transfers.

HOMEBIRTH Your own environment, home comforts and a relaxing, less stressful ambience. High chance of vaginal birth and less chance of having a caesarean, instrumental birth or epidural. As safe as hospital for low risk births. High levels of satisfaction.

Service not available in all areas. Private home birthing can be costly (but cheaper than private hospital birth). May require transfer into hospital (more common in first labour). Some emergency treatments are only available in hospital. Higher risk of newborn death for high risk pregnancies labouring at home.Dr Jolyon Ford is an Obstetrician and author of Pregnancy Wellbeing

Dr Jolyon Ford is an obstetrician and author of Pregnancy Wellbeing. Instagram & Facebook: @pregnancywellbeing. For all things pregnancy follow @ pregnancywellbeing

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Granny’s Guide

By Yvette O’Dowd

T

Crying Babies

he sound of a baby crying gets our attention; it is nearly impossible to ignore.

Research suggests men and women respond differently to the sound of a crying baby. In women, the sound triggers feelings of sympathy and caregiving; in men, the responses include irritation and anger.

The sound of your own baby crying goes much deeper – it reaches inside you and sets off all sorts of internal responses.

Infant crying needs to trigger an urgent response from mothers. In the context of a modern Western family, it is hard to imagine the risks that a crying infant exposed her tribe to in our hunter-gatherer past or even in more recent human history. A crying baby would attract lots of unwanted interest – from predators, enemies and others seeking a vulnerable point of attack. For the protection of the whole community, the crying would need to be stopped quickly and effectively. Your primal responses to do this still kick in, even in the secure environment of your suburban home in broad daylight.

So – what causes babies to cry and how can we learn to interpret these broad requests for help into the unique messages behind them?

Some Crying Babies Are Hungry

Babies are designed to efficiently process breastmilk. Even when your baby is formula-fed, he will still digest his feeds quickly and seek more fuel as soon as possible. The most likely reason for a baby to cry is hunger.

A breastfed baby cannot be over-fed – you can offer the breast as often as he seeks it, and more milk will always be available. Cuebased feeding allows your baby and breasts to work together to sync supply and demand.

A formula-fed baby needs his daily intake of milk regulated by an adult. However, you can be flexible in how often you offer feeds and the volume he takes at each. Bottle nursing is a technique which uses cue-based formula/expressed breast milk.

Some Crying Babies Are Overwhelmed

Too much stimulation can lead to inconsolable crying in babies of all ages. Over-handling by visitors, sudden or ongoing loud noise, and another sensory overload can leave a baby distressed. Generally, falling asleep will help them but getting them relaxed enough to do so can take some effort.

Dim lighting, white noise, and gentle movement can all help and overstimulated baby settle. A breastfed baby may seek the breast for reassurance while a bottle-fed baby might need feeding sooner than usual.

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Some Crying Babies Are Bored

In her book The Discontented Little Baby, Dr Pamela Douglas suggests babies have a hunger for stimulation, like their hunger for food. While over-stimulation can lead to tears, boredom can also cause distress in babies whose rapidly developing brains need a variety of sensory experiences throughout their day.

Rather than sleeping babies in separate rooms from the mother, Douglas recommends keeping the baby close to the mother while they sleep, as well as while awake.

Babywearing is a great way to keep the baby where the action is and allow a range of sights, sounds, smells, movement and touch as the adult goes about her tasks. These subtle stimulatory opportunities are unlikely to lead to the distress of over-stimulation, as the mother can see early feedback from the baby and adjust activity as needed.

Some Crying Babies Need Comfort

A rapidly changing body, growing in the first months of life at a rate never experienced again, can be an uncomfortable thing. New systems, fresh from the womb where they did little to no work, suddenly must kick into gear moments after birth. A digestive system needs to begin working, lungs need to begin the process that will not stop until the day of their last breath. Brains which will not be fully developed for 25 years need to start wiring up a network of cells that will eventually study at university, fly an aeroplane, create music or recall a lifetime of memories.

It is not surprising then, that babies might experience “growing pains” along the way. The concept of Wonder Weeks helps parents understand the stages of key development which challenge babies and lead to The 3 C’s: Clinginess, Crankiness and Crying. What these babies need is reassurance and parental presence, to comfort them through these demanding periods.

Some Crying Babies Need Sleep

Just because they need to sleep does not always mean they can fall asleep. An over-tired baby is miserable because he has gone beyond the point where sleep occurs easily. Your role here is to support him with soothing strategies until he relaxes enough to fall asleep.

Rocking, white noise, wearing him in a sling or carrier or putting him back to the breast are all tools which can induce sleep. Sometimes though, the only thing you can offer is your presence, as you hold him close and let his crying work towards the point of exhaustion. continued next page...

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Crying in arms, though distressing, is not the same as routinely leaving “Clinical presentation of vomiting or regurgitation is quite common in your baby to Cry It Out, as your touch, sound and smell help him know infants and in most cases self-resolving and does not need treatment. he isn’t alone and he won’t have the same sense of abandonment It may be associated with irritability but only very few "crying babies" created by Extinction Methods of sleep training. If however, his crying will have significant GER as the cause for their irritability.” reaches the stage where you fear you might harm your baby in • Peaks at 4 months of age when ~67% of healthy term infants have > frustration, then laying him in a safe sleep space and moving away 1 daily episode of regurgitation from hearing range will allow you to calm down and reassess how to • Between 6-7 months the prevalence of symptoms decreases from proceed.

61% to 21%

Crying Babies Feel Pain

Recent research suggests that babies experience pain much like adults. That is pretty confronting as a parent, when a lot of the pain is unfixable. Reflux and colic are commonly identified causes of pain, but little is known about how either occurs or what physiological processes are behind them. Indeed, science can’t even clearly define what the term colic means. However, research has clarified that:

• At 12 months of age only 5% have symptoms

• Colic affects all babies, regardless of race or feeding method • Crying tends to peak around six weeks. By around 3-5 months, colic disappears.

• Colic is rarely due to an underlying medical condition.

When it comes to reflux - gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD even less is known. Indeed, there is concern that doctors overdiagnose GERD and some babies are needlessly medicated.

The Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, Australia says:

Regardless of what is actual happening in babies who are said to have reflux or colic, the distress they are feeling is real and the impact of it on families is not to be underrated. Parents need advice and support, including respite occasionally to support their mental health.

If your baby’s crying is beyond what you would consider to be normal, consult your doctor or nurse.

Some Crying Babies Need Touch

After the close confines of the womb in late pregnancy, life outside it comes as a shock to many babies. Especially during the Fourth Trimester, touch reassures infants and meets their sensory need for physical contact. Infant massage, babywearing and skin-to-skin all meet the baby’s needs and also help parents’ bond and connect with their child.

EXHIBITION Bring the kids in to see the 2020 National Works on Paper – featuring many of Australia’s leading contemporary artists.

ONLINE CREATIVE ACTIVITIES Visit our website for a series of creative activities with artist/ educator Jill Anderson inspired by the 2020 National Works on Paper, including create a collage of a sensational sea creature, inspired by artist Vera Möller, or create a drawing about 2020, inspired by artist Locust Jones.

Visit mprg.mornpen.vic.gov.au/learn Civic Reserve, Dunns Rd, Mornington ph 5950 1580

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A distressed baby might enjoy sharing a bath with mum or dad, followed by a massage and finished off with a skin-to-skin feeding from breast or bottle.

Some Crying Babies Are Lonely

Human infants are not designed to be alone. As social mammals, they expect to be around people. Traditional societies include babies in all aspects of daily life. In the typical Western environment, where mothers are isolated in the home with infants and young children, in houses where separate spaces are defined for sleep and activity, loneliness can become an issue for mothers and babies.

Some Crying Babies Do Not Know Why They Cry

It is the most frustrating thing of all – no matter how many times we plead with them to tell us what is wrong – babies do not know. They do not have the brain development to separate the physical from the emotional, the mild from the severe, the optional for the urgent.

Babies' cries do generally all sound the same (though with time and experience, you might start to discern small variations and their meanings) and the helplessness you feel in not knowing WHAT is wrong is normal.

Keeping your baby around day-time activity, close to his mother and not reducing noise levels during sleep can all reassure a baby he is not alone.

Some Crying Babies Are Uncomfortable

Due to their limited mobility, babies rely on others to help when they feel discomfort. It might be a bunched-up shirt under their onesie, a swaddling wrap digging in just a little, a nappy chaffing or an arm trapped awkwardly. It is always worth checking for these little discomforts. Keeping your baby close by will allow you to pick up on his cues before he turns to more extreme cries.

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

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE Supercharge your summer with the Frankston City Libraries Summer Reading Challenge. Kids aged 0-18 are encouraged to get reading and explore their local library.

Read for 20 hours across December and January, and go in the draw for some great prizes. Reading is an awesome way to chill out and relax this summer.

“At Frankston City Libraries we’re committed to improving literacy skills in our community and this program is a great example of how we’re making reading fun,” said Frankston City Libraries Manager, Tammy Goodwin.

Register now to download your reading record via library.frankston.vic.gov.au or visit the Carrum Downs, Frankston or Seaford libraries to collect your reading record.

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Tip One – Shapes

Everything around you is made up of shapes! If you ever get stuck trying to draw an animal, person, or you just want to draw a character from your favourite cartoon, always look at the shapes you can see: circles, squares, rectangles, ovals, jelly beans, triangles.

I start by lightly drawing a circle where the head will be, and then add in the body… usually a jelly bean shape or rectangle. What the character is doing will depend on where the arms and legs go.

Tip Two – Emotions

I always think what my character is doing or how it is feeling before I start to draw. If your character is sad it will be standing differently, just like its facial expression will be different to someone who is happy or joyful. Let’s try this as an example.

Stand near a mirror. Before you look at yourself, close your eyes and imagine yourself really sad. Feel the sadness not just in your face but in your body. Slowly open your eyes and look at how your body is now standing. Everything will feel heavy and your shoulders will droop.

Now shake that off…. Take a deep breath and think of something you love! Mine is my dog and ice cream! Close your eyes and think of a happy person or a happy moment.

Now look in the mirror. How is this reflected in your body?

What’s different?

Can you draw how a happy person looks based on this feeling and looking at yourself in the mirror? I bet you can!

It doesn’t matter if this is a stick figure. In fact that’s perfect to capture those two emotions in stick figures first!

Tip Three – Perfect by whose standards?

One of the things I love about drawing is how freeing and creative it is when I have fun. I used to strive for my pictures to be ‘perfect’, but who decides if something is perfect?

Some of my best drawings had odd shapes and lines in them; in fact that added character to my piece. Today, let’s just play with some shapes, have some fun and see what quirky characters come out!

Fun Exercise

We are going to start drawing circles very loosely on the page…. The messier the better, no perfect circles please… let’s have some fun with drawing shapes on the page.

Put that aside when you’re done. Now think of the animal, person or character. Close your eyes and look at them… let’s say it’s a cat. Look at the shapes you can see while thinking of a cat.

Once you have seen where the shapes are, open your eyes (or you can draw it with your eyes closed, that’s fun too!) and now draw the shapes.

When you are done, if it is lightly drawn, go over it and add in some features like fur, its face, stripes or patterns.

If you’re feeling happy with your cat, person or character, start to colour it in.

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By Serena Geddes

You’ll Need: -Crayons -Hand grater or pencil sharpener

-Baking paper -Iron -Scissors -Old newspapers

How to do it:

2. Cut the baking paper into the size and shape you want.

4. Turn your iron onto a low setting without steam. Place your wax paper and crayon shaving stack on top of an old newspaper.

(This will stop the melted crayon from seeping out from the sides of the wax paper and ruining your table!)

3. Place one piece of the cut wax paper onto an old piece of newspaper and sprinkle some shavings on top of it. Then place a second piece of wax paper on top.

5. Place another sheet of newspaper or scrap paper on top of your wax paper and crayon shaving layers. (This will stop the iron from getting melted crayon

1. Make some crayon shaving piles on a plate by peeling back the paper and grating or sharpening.

(Be careful! Graters and my knuckles do not get along. Or so it seems.)

on it.)

baubles.

6. Slowly iron the paper. Keep checking every few seconds to see if your crayon shavings have completely melted. Once they have, set your project aside to cool and dry.

8. You can also create a frame from construction paper and glue the sun catcher inside.

7. Once dry, you can trim or gently snap any seeped out crayon from your shape. We tried a heart, moon, star and some Christmas

9. Let the sun shine! *We also tried peeling the wax paper off and just using the melted crayon sheets – which was pretty, but not as easy! The crayon

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How does it work?

1. Choose your ceramics (min $30 value per order)

2. Contact Arty Pants to place your order 3. Arty Pants deliver to your door 4. Keep the kit for one week to paint the ceramics 5. Arty Pants collect the kit with painted ceramics 6. Arty Pants glaze and fire your ceramics 7. Arty Pants deliver your masterpieces

MOBILE CERAMIC PAINTING

By Melissa McCullough Looking to fill some of our home time, we thought we would pop our painters berets on and grab a brush! How lucky that there is an awesome service to bring everything we would need to create our awesome ceramic pieces right to our door.

The kids went online and chose from an extensive catalogue of sculptures ranging from zombies to princesses and from banks to bowls. Plenty of options for both young and older creative-at-heart peeps, like me!

One kiddo chose a sweet dolphin box and the other a dog, while I grabbed some masking tape and tried my hand at the evertrendy geometric shapes on a set of mugs.

The process was super easy, child friendly, and quite relaxing for mum!

This would be a great idea for a gift, a sleepover, or even a group of adults ready to get their holiday crafting on!

Check Arty Pants out on Facebook or Instagram @artypantsau 98 98 Peninsula PeninsulaKids Kids– –Summer Summer2020/21 2020/21

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Age............................

Colour me in for your chance to win a one night glamping experience at Iluka retreat and Bayplay adventure pass for 2 adults 2 children, value $530!

Valid Sunday to Thursday not including public holiday (Expiry 30/5/21) All entries receive a $20 voucher.

Email your entry to melissa@mpnews.com.au or PM your artwork to facebook.com/MorningtonPeninsulaKids Winner chosen 15/02/2021. Prizes must be collected from Peninsula Kids offices at 63 Watt Road Mornington VIC.,unless otherwise stated. www.peninsulakids.com.au

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