Peninsula Kids Winter 2020

PENINSULA KIDS WINTER 2020

ENINSULA KID P S LOVING FAMILY LIFE ON THE PENINSULA

WINTER 2020

FREE 5 tips on

Creating your ideal

www.peninsulakids.com.au

INTERVIEW WITH LEGO MASTERS COLOURING COMP

Born at The Bays Hospital Trusted by generations for over 80 years The Bays has one of the finest maternity units in the region.

Each year we bring around 500 new babies into the world.

It's a great start in life for the next generation.

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The first days of your baby's life are unforgettable. Spend them at The Bays.

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Dr Sarah Roberts - (03) 5970 5353 Dr Amy Swanson - (03) 5970 5353

For more information phone 5976 5262 or visit www..thebays.com.au The Bays Hospital Vale Street, Mornington VIC 3931 Phone 03 5975 2009 2 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

Making a difference today for a sustainable, thriving tomorrow Cornish College offers education of a different kind – one which inspires the heart, the mind and the person.

Book now for a school tour General Excellence Scholarships Applications now open for Years 7 and 10 entry in 2022

For more information contact admissions@cornishcollege.vic.edu.au or call 9781 9000.

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Editor

Cover Photo Front cover: AJ Location: Mornington skate park Photo: Danielle B Photography daniellebphotography.com.au

Melissa McCullough

ed’s letter...

The winter 2020 edition has arrived. Albeit, a little late.

As a team here at MPK, we discussed, pondered, made pro/ con lists, created pie charts (really, just because we like pie), and agonised over what to do with this post-ish, coming out of the dark from Covid-19 issue of the magazine.

Editor and Publisher Melissa McCullough melissa@mpnews.com.au Design Sam Loverso sam@mpnews.com.au

Design

Advertising Miriam Doe 0421 085 974 miriam@mpnews.com.au

Sam Loverso

General Enquiries info@peninsulakids.com.au

Unanimously we knew that we had to get an edition out.

I think, to create some sort of normalcy for us and our readers in an otherwise completely not normal time in all our lives.

So, we pushed the release of the mag back a few weeks in hopes that all our contributors and clients would have the chance to stabilise. We have had to do the same. With everyone working from home, and some also home-schooling, (they said it would be easy!), the road to winter has been riddled with many forks.

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.

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.

Fortunately, we made it. We hope that you enjoy flipping through the physical pages or reading Peninsula Kids online as much as we are delighted to bring it to you. We always get a little charge when she goes off to print. And this edition has been no different.

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.

Peninsula Kids is produced quarterly.

15,000 copies distributed between Mordialloc and Portsea.

Registered address: 63 Watt Road, Mornington 3931

<Insert virtual high-five here.> Advertising

Miriam Doe

www.facebook.com/MorningtonPeninsulaKids

Proudly published by

Congrats to the autumn colouring competition winner Jolie (yay!)

What a fantastic effort! And to the runner-up winners Ellie and Charlotte, all of which have won fabulous prizes courtesy of Kidz Shed. www.kidzshed.com.au Do not put those art skills to waste!

Make sure you all enter our winter competition on page 82 with one lucky winner gaining entry to The Enchanted Maze Garden for their family.

It will be great to get out and about again.

But hasn’t it been great staying in…

4 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

Do you have a child in Grade 5?

If you would like them to attend Padua College from Year 7 2022, visit the College website for further information.

For enquiries, please contact the Registrar on 5978 2701 or email enrolments@padua.vic.edu.au

Year 7 2022 Enrolments Visit our website to enrol online or take a virtual school tour

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A community of vibrant learning Explore John Paul College through an online tour experience via our website and discover what makes JPC a place to learn, grow and thrive.

Enrolments for Y7 2022 Close on Friday 21st August 2020

Take the tour at jpc.vic.edu.au

McMahons Road, Frankston VIC 3199 | 03 9784 0200 | johnpaul@jpc.vic.edu.au

jpc.vic.edu.au

Contents

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26

Spotlight 10 Useful Thinking Life is complicated. In fact, it’s more complicated than ever with everything that society is going through with COVID-19, to the lack of uncertainty of what life will look like coming out the other side.

It is now more important than ever to think usefully.

12 An Interview With Lego Master Australia TV Judge The Brickman Ryan "The Brickman "McNaught answers questions on life before and after LEGO Masters Season 2.

16 Overcoming The Early Struggles of Being a Single Parent Being a single parent can be a difficult time, especially when the child is very young, and for the parent coming to terms with the fact that their entire life has changed permanently.

22 Parent Shaming in All Its Forms and Shapes In an increasingly online world, we now have more places and freedoms to shame others’ parenting techniques and behaviours, with the tap of just a few keys.

26 Family Is a Team Sport As a busy working mum you are familiar with the concept of 'outsourcing', we'll tell you why you need to master family 'insourcing'.

28 Teaching Our Kids How to Manage Money at Any Age We all strive to help our kids set healthy habits. Managing money is a helpful skill they can benefit from for the rest of their lives.

20 What They Hear - How Innocent Comments Can Harm Your Child Saying critical things within earshot of your toddler can be harmful. Any unfavourable comment regarding a child’s actions or behaviour can embed in your child’s mind as being correct. 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.

65

Pg12

ERICA LOUISE

kidtownmelbourne.com

Pg28

JO & CARL VIOLETA

www.violetafinance.com.au

Pg32

66

40

30 Take a Walk On the Wildside With a Street Art Tour 32 When Dads Play, Kids Grow Stronger!

Celebrate 34 Drive-in Movie Night With Stan

Pg44

51

Contents Local (and not so)

DAVID HAWKINS

Pg60

Health 66 Supercharging Children's Immune Systems 68 Understanding Links Between Additives & Kids Behaviours 72 Eczema - A Nutritional Approach

36 Winter Days to Celebrate

Pregnancy & Baby

Education

76 Granny's Guide to Baby-led Weaning

40 10 Tips For Creating Your Ideal Study Space

Creative

46 Why the First Five Years Are the Most Critical to Ensuring a Bright Future

80 Magazine Collage Initials

Recipes 60 Healthy Recipes With Linda Martinucci

8 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

LINDA MARTINUCCI

www.simplyswapfoods.com.au

Pg72

78 Bringing Your Baby Home Early From Hospital

44 I Am an Autism Mum - A Story of Hope

51 Focus on Education

KIM NORTON

www.rainbowlighttherapies.com.au

SHERRIE MILLER

@sherriemillernutrition

In Every

Issue 37 Party Planning 38 Things We Love 58 Book Reviews 74 Ask the Experts 82 Colouring Competition

Pg76

YVETTE O’DOWD

www.facebook.com/groups/ SouthernNaturalParentingNetwork

Our nurturing environment ensures every girl feels that she is

known seen heard ,

and

.

Join our Principal and Admissions Manager for a school tour Register now www.mentonegirls.vic.edu.au

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9

useful thinking L 1. Typical motivation speakers tell us to be positive. Our parents told us to try and be positive. Our teachers told us to be positive. Well, here we go.

Idea number one. Positive thinking doesn’t really work.

I don't teach positive thinking. I teach this word… useful. Because with everything that is happening, if you have been in a rut the last six days, six weeks, or six months it's not positive thinking that’s going to get you out of it.

It’s useful thinking.

If you are feeling like you are at ground zero in your life, the question is not how can you be positive, but rather what is the most useful thing for you to do to get from zero to two? What is the most useful action for you to take in your life to get from two to five?

What about to get from five to eight?

To progress, the question is also what is the most useful thing for you to believe about your reality. This thinking leads you to discover what is really important and helps get you through this situation.

10 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

ife is complicated. In fact, it’s more complicated than ever with everything that society is going through with COVID-19, to the lack of uncertainty of what life will look like coming out the other side. It is now more important than ever to think usefully.

Here are five tips to help you do exactly that.

2. Some people would rather

subscribe to tough times.

These are tough times. These are unprecedented challenging times.

Some people love to be unhappy and want to stay that way. If this is you, I do have some good news for you. You will have a lot of friends.

You will probably have minimal personal success from here, but on the plus side you will have lots of people to discuss the seriousness of these tough times.

Misery does in fact love company.

3. Let me ask you, do you spend most of your time thinking about all the things that are wrong or all the things that you have going for you?

Do you think about all the things you don’t have, or do you think about all the things you have?

Actually, forget all the things you have.

Some people right now may not feel that they have that much. That’s actually not what is really important. Instead, do you think about all the things you don’t have or do you think about all the opportunities that could be coming?

That’s what really matters. It opens your mind to possibility.

5 tips 4. There is something that helps us called the MindBody loop. Useful beliefs affect the thoughts that you have in your mind and it changes your perception of how you view the world.

Those thought patterns and beliefs, in turn, influence your body movement. By the same token, how you move your body affects what you think about.

What the mind harbours, the body will manifest.

Healthy people have better posture than sad people.

Successful people have better posture than people who feel they are failing.

If you watch someone with excellent posture, you’ll notice that their body language conveys that they are alert and awake. When the body is alert and awake, the mind is alert and awake too.

5. It is even amazing when we look at the words we say to ourselves first thing in the morning to start our day. Do we use words that get us excited for the gift of a new day? Or do we use words that tell us what a grind today is going to be? The most important words we say all day are the words we say to ourselves, about ourselves when we are alone by ourselves. Most people are cruel in those moments.

Be nice. Be the best version of you.

Chris Helder is one of the world’s most outstanding speakers on the topic of communication, leadership and influence.

He is the author of the newly released book The Simple Shift as well as the best-selling Useful Belief, Cut the Noise and The Ultimate Book of Influence.

Find out more at www.chrishelder.com

www.peninsulakids.com.au

11

By Erica Louise

EGO Masters Australia is a reality television

show on Channel 9, which sees teams compete to build the best LEGO project. It is hosted by Hamish Blake and judged by LEGO Certified Professionals Ryan "The Brickman" McNaught.

LEGO Masters Season 2 screened just at the right time for Australian families. The show was a delight to watch during isolating times, showcasing some incredible builds made by a lovely group of creative people.

To celebrate the number one show in Australia and to talk about his life before and after LEGO Masters Season 2, we had a chat to Ryan "The Brickman" McNaught: Q. When were you first introduced to LEGO? A: "I got my first LEGO set when I was three years old, a tiny blue boat that my grandmother bought for me.

It cost 29c! I loved LEGO up until around the age of 14 - when it wasn't cool anymore. I didn't touch a brick again until I had kids - I have twin sons. My mum kept all my childhood things and one day said "You'd better have your junk back" ; my LEGO was amongst that. I started playing with LEGO again and remembered how much fun it was. Then I started looking at how LEGO had evolved and changed, so I got back into it that way."

Q. As the only LEGO Certified Professional (LCP) in the Southern Hemisphere, what does it take to become one?

A: "There are 14 of us around the world and we all became LEGO Certified Professionals in a different way. There's no such thing as LEGO University or anything like that. I was doing some work with LEGO MINDSTORMS, which is used in schools to teach kids about STEM learning and engineering. LEGO really liked what I was doing and we had a few chats and it went from there."

12 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

Q. When you became an official LEGO Certified Professional, did you travel to LEGO HQ in Denmark?

A: "I met up with the person who looks after that division in Chicago; I used to work in I.T. and would travel quite a lot. However, each year - except this year - we all get together, usually in Denmark or somewhere else in the world, and talk about all things LEGO." Q. You enjoy running marathons! What do you have planned for the future? Are there any runs coming up?

A: "I was supposed to be running the Boston Marathon a month ago, and I was supposed to be running in Berlin in September, but unfortunately that's been cancelled too. I've done some virtual runs but it's not quite the same."

Q. Tell us about your time in lockdown and what you've been up to?

A: "I did a bit of running, but we've also been renovating our house over the past 12 months, so there has been lots of renovations whilst in lockdown" Q. Have the Coronavirus restrictions changed or stopped any work plans that you had?

A: "We have LEGO exhibitions touring around the world.

Right now there is one in Saudi Arabia, in Leicester UK, and one in Vancouver Canada. All of those exhibitions have stopped. Everything is on pause and the models are all sitting there getting dusty unfortunately until the world sorts itself out."

Q. Have you been able to work on anything during lockdown?

A: "We're currently building our next exhibition and using the lull to our advantage. It's a little challenging and difficult with social distancing because our team is collaborative. We work together in teams and we can't do a lot of that at the moment so it's very different and its changed what we do a lot."

Q. How did LEGO Masters Australia on Channel 9 transpire and how did you get involved with the show?

A: "The original LEGO Masters TV show started in the UK, but in a very different format. I got a call out of the blue from the production company that had bought the rights to the show here, saying they were going to do LEGO Masters Australia and asking if I was interested.

Obviously, I know what LEGO can do, but I didn't know how that would translate into a mainstream television show so I was a little hesitant. However, I guess this is a testament to how great the show is, and the quality of people involved; that's what makes it so amazing.

We had so much fun making the show."

Q. When you see the contestants' builds at the start of each season, do you get a feeling of who might reach the finals?

A: "I don't really. Just because a contestant's first LEGO build is unbelievably amazing or terrible, doesn't necessarily mean that theme will continue. We see it a lot in LEGO Masters; that the pressure of all the cameras, lights and TV equipment can change what a contestant does."

"And here's something not many people know: I don't want to know anything about who the contestants are until we meet them that first time the roller door goes up. So in the first episode Hamish and I know nothing about the contestants or who they are. That's quite intentional because we want to do that learning on screen. We want to learn about who they are and what kind of LEGO they build."

Q. With the longest builds in the LEGO Masters show, for example the tasks that take 28 hours, are these done over an extended time frame with lots of breaks for the contestants?

A: "Yes we take breaks; we don't want to keep people awake for that long! Each day is very different but we usually start filming at 7am and finish around 6pm, with around 8 hours of filming and regular breaks.

There are over 50 crew involved in the show: camera operators, sound people, producers and they all need to have a break too. Everyone's clothes get washed and often we'll have three or four of the same shirt TV Magic!"

Q. We noticed you get quite sad when contestants are eliminated, does it surprise you that you get emotional?

A: "It does surprise me and I always get a little embarrassed about it because I never seem to get emotional anywhere else. I think that the ethos with LEGO is that it's all about being positive and encouraging and so when you have to tell someone that unfortunately their LEGO is not good enough, it goes against that. I know on season 2 on a few occasions, they were amazing LEGO builds but someone had to go home and that's what makes it sad. It's not because they didn't do a good job, weren't good enough or didn't try hard enough." continued next page...

"I do go along to the auditions to meet and help people, although they do audition about 500 contestants and I don't think any of those I'd met in the auditions for season 2 made it through."

www.peninsulakids.com.au

13

Q. Do your kids get involved with any of your builds?

A: "I don't have any of my own LEGO at home. The only LEGO we do have at home belongs to the kids so it's up to them to do what they want. However, LEGO was a big part of our isolation time with everyone being at home. Right now one of my kids is building a Jurassic World out of LEGO and the other is building a Japanese subway, but I don't push it on them; they just pester me to come with me to the workshop all the time!"

Q. What has been your most technical/challenging build?

A: "The hardest build, which I've made twice now, was the Roman Colosseum. The reason that's the hardest is that the Colosseum is shaped like an oval. To make an oval out of square bricks is really difficult to do. When I first built that about 10 years ago it was by far the hardest thing I've ever had to make. I've since had to build it again and it was much easier the second time around."

Q. Which of your LEGO builds used the most bricks?

A: "We did a temporary model at the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium in Darling Harbour. We covered the whole side of the building in a big LEGO mosaic and we used 16 million LEGO bricks. We had to build it in the middle of summer and we nearly roasted ourselves building the model outside, but we got it done."

Q. Have you ever had a building disaster?

Something you had in mind but it didn’t quite work out?

A: " The good thing about LEGO is when things aren't quite going the way you want, it's easy to change as you go. I have plenty of those moments all the time. But I have ruined a few LEGO models. I've smashed a couple by accident. I had a huge ice cream build with three big scoops on it and I dropped it, so yes I have had my fair share of disasters."

Q. Can you tell us about Brickman’s Family Challenge Book coming out in November?

A: "It all started last year. People love doing LEGO challenges and are always looking for advice on how to do that. We've got this catalogue of literally hundreds of challenges that are great for families to do. So we got together with Murdoch Books and we set out what that challenge book would look like. So we've spent almost a year now working on the book and we're down to the final edit before it gets sent off to the printers."

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14 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

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Q. With lockdown restrictions now lifted, do you have plans for another LEGO exhibition in Melbourne or elsewhere and if so, what can we expect?

A: "We're working on an exhibition, which we will hopefully finish by the end of the year. It's the biggest one we've ever done, so we're busy building away on that which is keeping us busy and entertained. We've pretty much got our work locked in until the end of the year, but it's a very uncertain time and we don't quite know what's going to happen and when. We're not sure where the new exhibition will open yet with many museums and galleries closed. All of our previous exhibitions have opened in Australia and logistics-wise it's always easier for us do to something locally, but don't know yet."

You can watch (or re-watch) every episode of LEGO Masters Season 2 on Channel9NOW and if you're up for the challenge you could also register your interest in LEGO Masters Season 3 via 9now.nine. com.au/lego-masters.

Follow Ryan "The Brickman" McNaught's work via thebrickman.com Erica hails from the United Kingdom, and has been living in Australia for 15 years. She has two sons 5 & 10 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

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29/5/2015 1:30 pm www.peninsulakids.com.au

S NGLE

PARENT

By Clay Morrison

B

eing a single parent can be a difficult time, especially when the child is very young. Not only is it tough for the parent to come to terms with the fact that their entire life has changed permanently, but it is also necessary to figure out exactly what being a parent consists of, what the best methods and techniques associated with raising a child are, and how some semblance of normality can be reacquired.

What are the facts?

Research carried out as part of the 2016 Census discovered that there are close to one million single-parent family homes in Australia. Estimates would suggest that this accounts for 14% – or one in seven – of all homes in which a child is resident.

This is something that very often slips under the radar, and so difficulties are often not discussed, and therefore difficulties can worsen.

Single parents can very often struggle to balance work, supporting their children, having a social life and ensuring that they have access to all of the necessary financial assistance that will get them from one month to the next. Financial worries are one of the main reasons that some parents end up staying together; in fact: 20% of those who decided against leaving their partner said they could not afford to separate (according to research from Direct Line).

So, with that in mind, what can single parents do to ensure they are able not only to cope with the early stages of their child’s life, but be in the best possible position to ensure they can live without unnecessary stress or burdens? continued next page...

16 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

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17

What are the challenges?

2. Ensure that there is some kind of routine

The main challenges associated with being a single parents are as follows:

All children need some kind of structure and routine in their lives, as do parents. By having schedules, by knowing what is likely to occur day by day, and by having meals and going to bed at a set time, you will be better able to plan ahead, and your child will be less likely to keep you awake at unconventional hours.

- Increased levels of stress - Added pressure to attain money - Fatigue and general tiredness - Finding appropriate childcare

3. Refrain from feeling guilty

So, with that in mind, what are the key things that single parents should do to overcome struggles and difficulties?

There is absolutely no benefit in condemning yourself for the situation you find yourself in, or for inventing reasons to belittle your parenting abilities; stay positive, and remind yourself that you are doing the very best that you can.

1. Show love to your child, whatever you are going through

4. Look after your health

It is absolutely essential to constantly show your child that they are loved and will be cared for. Even if you are struggling with finances, or are working long hours, you need to do all you can to make your child feel safe and secure. This is, obviously, easier said than done, but it is absolutely vital.

It can be very easy to experience burnout in the weeks and months following your child’s birth, so it is absolutely vital that you keep yourself in top condition. This means getting lots of sleep, drinking enough water, exercising, and eating properly. If you don’t look after yourself then you are liable to feel more stressed and tired.

- Social isolation

18 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

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19

How innocent comments can harm your child

By Dr Karen Phillip

S

aying critical things within earshot of your toddler can be harmful.

Any unfavourable comment regarding a child’s actions or behaviour can embed in your child’s mind as being correct.

A child is only learning who they are, what they can do, how good or bad they are, and if they are loved and accepted unconditionally.

All these feelings accelerate and embed between ages two to five. Most parents want the very best for their child. They want their child to grow and develop into caring, kind, confident and balanced little people.

20 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

How things can be confused in the child’s mind If our child can hear us, the things we say can have such a negative effect, unintentionally, especially if we think we are protecting them.

Many parents believe truth is essential, and while this is correct, colouring in the truth is sometimes better for the toddler to hear.

Parents, once aware of this, can adjust their language statements and turn fear and negativity into positive reinforcement.

Negative comments can be modified to mean the same thing yet sound so incredibly positive for the child, such as in these three examples:

With Poppy saying, 'Wow you should have seen him eat his dinner • You ate your dinner and got it in your mouth today at Poppy’s. My with his spoon today, so clever'. A parent responding with, 'Gosh that’s goodness how clever and grown-up you are becoming great. He makes such a shocking mess when he does it with me'.

• Wow, you did your spinning dance today and stayed on your feet. That Nana says, 'Wow she was incredible doing her spinning dance today'. is so tricky to do, and you did it this time. Congratulations you clever girl A parent responding with, 'Fabulous, she usually falls flat on her face • Incredible. You swam all by yourself in the pool. I can’t wait for you to when she does it here'. show us that when we go to the big pool.

Perhaps even a comment such as Nana saying, 'He swam in the pool today all by himself with his bubble on; He was so brave and clever'.

Regardless of whether your child makes a mess at dinner, slips when A parent responding with, 'Yes tremendous but I bet he won’t do it in the big spinning or is a little apprehensive in the larger pool, the message remains pool, he will be scared in the big pool compared to your smaller pool'. constant. Your child is capable, tries hard and sometimes makes it.

All these parent comments can have a devastating effect on the child’s Building self-belief, self-confidence and self-esteem can be relatively self-belief and confidence. With kids around, walls have ears. Even easy if parents get their responses right. (And we all want that for our when they are sleeping their subconscious mind remains attentive. kids.)

Therefore, saying things in front of a sleeping child can be heard within Listen to what you say. Agree with your partner that if either of you is the subconscious and create a misinformed self-belief. heard to say a negative comment, a gentle reword or “what daddy/ mummy meant to say was ….. “and allow this gentle reminder to help How about changing a negative you adjust your perhaps habitual negative responses.

into a positive

We know the parent comments above are truthful, for the parent, not for the child. We want our children to believe they can do anything. We need them to know they have the excellent ability when they try; succeeding or not is irrelevant. These are the positive steps a child needs to hear.

A parent recently commented to me their partner catastrophise everything. If something small went wrong, then the whole world and life were unfair.

If a child was in a bad mood or threw a little 'tantie', they were hysterical — most times with the child within earshot. While a child may not understand the word hysterical, the manner of delivery can be sensed. Young children have an uncanny way to read body language and hear tonality which is somewhat concerning at times.

Imagine having your child develop with such confident self-belief.

You can.

Dr Karen Phillip has been a Counselling Psychotherapist for almost two decades, and a professional Clinical Hypnotherapist for over 10 years. Karen is an expert in the fields of relationships, parenting and communications and has helped thousands of couples and families resolve problems ranging from communication conflicts to parenting issues. Karen is qualified in many areas and is the family therapist on many television and radio programs. She is an International Author, Key Note Speaker and Trainer. Karen has private rooms and does a considerable amount of work over Skype or Zoom working with people from all around the world needing a fast, effective way to correct personal issues, behaviours and relationships. You can find out more about Dr Karen at www.drkarenphillip.com www.peninsulakids.com.au

21

By Sabina Read

22 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

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I

I am rity mum, says: “As a mum in the public eye, Snezana Wood, Huggies ambassador and celeb an In girls. my nt pare I way the for e judged onlin exposed to the realities of parent-shaming, being own your tion ques you make easily aming can so amazing, yet vulnerable stage of life, parent-sh working es you make for your kids. I’m so excited to be choic the n withi t doub e parenting skills and creat rate all to the issue of parent-shaming and instead celeb with Huggies as they strive to bring attention choices.” allow parents to be comfortable in their own parents, creating a supportive community to

More than half of parents (52% ) felt like they w they ’ve made, ere shamed by half experienced someone ques someone makin over a third (38% tioning or critici g a negative re ) have been to sing decisions mark about thei ld di all it takes is a re ct ly th r parenting choi at w hat they were do strange look fro ces and ing was wrong m a stranger, w by someone w . Surprisingly, so ith a third (33% ho was giving metimes ) admitting they them strange lo felt like they ’re oks in response being shamed to their parent choices.

The resea rch believing also reveals wha t Aussie p it was the arents fe ir approa (34%) fe el tha ch to disc lt like the ip y line (44% t they ’ve been sh a re screen. It b e in g amed for ) and the criticised also app ir child’s with almo for allow ears that they ’ve fe b e st o in h A g their ch aviour (4 ussies are lt shame ildren to 3%), and ne in two criticising about it. s p over a th e working nd too m ird parents, with almo uch time in front o fa st a third (29%) ad mitting continued next page...

www.peninsulakids.com.au

23

Top Tips for Overcoming Parent Shaming 1. Be the change you want to see – choose to be supportive, compassionate and non-judgmental with all parents, including your partner, and yourself… in person, on-line, and with strangers

2. Normalise the highs and lows of parenting – acknowledge that since the

dawn of time every parent has struggled, however at their very core, every parent wants the best for his or her children

New parents amongst the most shamed

The first few years of bringing up a child is a stressful and difficult time, filled with questions and many decisions. Unfortunately, according to the research, first time parents who experience shame suffer more frequently with half saying they feel it at least once a month (57%). Surprisingly, the criticisms faced by parents of babies aged 0-2 years are also experienced at least monthly (61%) and often come from those who are supposed to be helping and supporting, such as their relatives (37%), showing we need to look after new parents more.

Walking the fine line between healthy advice and shaming

Despite the extent of shaming, Aussies who admit to doing so appear to have good intentions: almost half (42%) wanted to share their own experience to be helpful, one in five (19%) believed that others can benefit from their advice and 14% felt that they’re responsible to help new parents. So with good intent and thinking before we speak, let’s make a stand on parent-shaming by faming not shaming.

Head to the Huggies “Be Comfortable In Your Skin” website to read more: www.huggies.com.au/comfortable-in-your-skin

3. Focus on what’s working well - criticism hurts more than praise feels good so make an effort to celebrate parenting triumphs, no matter how small, rather than shine the light on what hasn’t gone to plan

4. Laugh – laughter feels good because we release endorphins which

increases the wellbeing of parents and children; humour is contagious also helps us feel connected and safe

5. Speak up – you can be sure that if you’re feeling self-doubt, unsure, or like

you’re navigating parenting without a compass, others are too. Sharing the load can help alleviate stress, garner support and new ideas, or just validate that we aren’t alone

6. Seek help – if the challenges of parenting feel overwhelming or are

impacting your mental health, reach out to your GP or a psychologist for assistance and support

7. Share gratitude – express your appreciation to others for the help, love,

guidance and small acts of kindness that they have shared in your parenting journey

8. Debunk myths and unhelpful expectations – go in search of a perfect parent,

not the airbrushed kind in social feeds, but the real kind! Now keep hunting… because there’s no such things as a perfect parent

9. Be realistic – healthy parenting equates with the small, daily and sometimes

seemingly insignificant moments of love, connection, empathy and simply being present, not trips to Disneyland, flamboyant birthday parties, or smiles in social feeds

10. High five your parents – finally now you’re a parent you have some idea of

the challenges, joy, sacrifices, confusion, guilt and love your parents have experienced in their parenting journey, so if possible, why not let them know you recognise that!

Sabina Read is a psychologist who works with organisations, groups, individuals, couples and families in the areas of relationships, well-being, job loss, mental health, career development, leadership, change, stress, life transitions, and parenting. www.sabinareadpsychology.com.au

24 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

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 Wednesday to Friday on 5979 9200 or email: office@smmornington.catholic.edu.au

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

25

By Kate Christie

Why you need to master insourcing

A

s a busy working mum you are familiar with the concept of ‘ 'outsourcing' - where you identify all the tasks you perform at work and home that you are prepared to pay someone else — an expert — to do because they will do the task faster, better and cheaper than you. The reason you outsource the tasks you don’t want to do, or don’t have the skills or time to do, is to give yourself time for the things you do want to do. Go figure!

However, getting help around the home needs to go beyond just you and the cleaner doing everything. It’s time to ‘insource’!

26 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

3. Y ou are not after perfection, you simply want to instil in your family the habit of helping out without a fight. The dishwasher may not get stacked exactly the way you like but that’s OK; the beds might not be perfect but at least the doonas are off the floor; no-one expects a six year old to vacuum like a pro, however by the time s/he is fifteen s/he will be a pro and what’s more, s/he won’t argue when you hand over the vacuum.

4. Everyone is responsible for their own ‘stuff’ and their own room - they are capable of tidying away their belongings; hanging up their towels; making their beds; and cleaning their floordrobes.

5. Identify the family-based chores and divide them up and rotate them - for example, feed the pets; walk the dog; take out the bins; vacuum the floor; pack and unpack the dish-washer.

BUT THERE ARE TRAPS - LET’S NOT KID OURSELVES HERE!...

The 2 Big Traps to Avoid 1. The ‘Oh MY GODDDD, my kids have left their towels on the floor again! How many times do I have to ask them to hang their towels up? Honestly, I am not their [insert swear word of choice] slave!’ trap.

And then what do you do? You pick up the towels and rehang them.

You know you do this. Is it any wonder that your family don’t pick up their own towels? If you were living in a hotel where the towels you left on the bathroom floor were collected, washed, refreshed and re-hung every day, you would probably leave your towel on the floor too.

I am not blaming you. I am just telling you that you are a major part of the problem.

Solution: Stay strong and be consistent, because you are breaking

two habits: (i) the habit of your family who are used to leaving their ‘stuff’ lying around because they know you will pick it up and put it away, and (ii) your habit of picking it up and putting it away.

2. T he ‘It’s rally no bother - it only takes me five minutes to do!’ trap.

No, it does not. It’s time for a reality check — the small stuff that you think only takes five minutes actually eats up hours and hours of your life. For example, if you spend 10 minutes a day tidying up all of the ‘stuff’ your kids leave around the house, that’s 60 hours of your time a year.

Solution: From now on, when you see your family’s stuff lying around just begging you to pick it up, clear it away, tidy it or make it magically disappear, take a deep breath and back out of the room and quietly shut the door.

Insourcing is all about creating independent and resourceful human beings as opposed to dependent and helpless ones. After all, my sons are going to grow up to marry your daughters, so let’s do them all a favour.

Insourcing is the exact opposite of outsourcing - where you identify everything you do around the house for the people you live with that they can do for themselves, and that you don’t have to pay them for.

The 5 Basics of Insourcing 1. Family is a Team Sport (and happily, you are the captain).

2. The younger you start your kids insourcing, the better - little kids are

Kate Christie is a time management specialist, best selling author, global speaker and the founder and CEO of Time Stylers. This is an edited extract from her fourth book, Me First: The Guilt-Free Guide to Prioritising You (published by Wiley), is available in all good book stores. For more information about Kate go to www.timestylers.com

enthusiastic, compliant, and they don’t back chat. If you leave insourcing until your kids are teenagers, you will be fighting a much harder battle. www.peninsulakids.com.au

27

TEACHING OUR KIDS HOW TO MANAGE MONEY AT ANY AGE

By Jo & Carl Violeta

We all strive to help our kids set healthy habits. Managing money is a helpful skill they can benefit from for the rest of their lives. Kids who develop good money management skills from an early age are more likely to be ready to face financial challenges as adults.

As parents we can all play an important role in helping our children understand money and set good habits when it comes to finances.

It's important to understand what level they’re at and find teachable moments, or set realistic goals that your children can relate to.

As a husband and wife Finance and Mortgage Broking team we have the same conversations about money over our kitchen table as anyone else.

There's a pretty large age gap between our two kids. Our youngest, Marcus is almost six years old, our eldest Eva is turning 19 this year.

They each need different approaches to helping them learn about money.

Here's three key messages worth sharing with kids about money for each stage they are at:-

PRE-SCHOOL

NUMBERS ARE FUN

A good understanding of numbers will help kids make smart decisions on how to save, invest and spend their money in the future.

Toddlers and pre-schoolers can be introduced to numbers through: •

Playing games like hopscotch

•

Singing songs with numbers and counting

•

Counting ingredients when helping to cook

• Counting objects around the house such as toys or shoes and sorting them into categories Healthy money behaviour is normal Parents role-modelling healthy money behaviour positively influences children's beliefs and values around money.

The way parents talk about money, their spending habits, and general approach to finances are noticed by children, even when they’re very young.

PRIMARY SCHOOL

MATHS CAN BE ENJOYABLE

Make maths fun by playing board games involving calculations like Monopoly.

Teach children about numbers used in sports, such as scores, batting averages and percentages of wins.

Read books with mathematical themes; our family's favourite is Benny's Pennies by Pat Brisson

NEED VS. WANTS Understanding needs versus wants is key to being able to live within your means.

Explain to kids that needs are things you need to live, such as food and water, while a want is something you would like to have, but it's not essential for survival, such as chocolate and the latest Super Mario game.

POCKET MONEY

SAVING IS A GREAT IDEA

Giving kids pocket money at around four to five years of age helps them learn about the value of money, the relative price of things, and saving. Saving up for something teaches kids that sometimes we need to wait for the things we want.

Encourage kids to set savings goals. This gives them an opportunity to practice making financial decisions; they get to decide how much of their pocket money they save and spend.

Money boxes help pre-schoolers learn how to count money, and they can physically see their savings grow.

28 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

HIGH SCHOOL CASH IS KING

Encourage teens to use cash to make purchases rather than pay with a key-card. Using cash is a tactile and visual experience. When teens pay with plastic they’re using ‘invisible money' which is an abstract concept that doesn't feel as real as cash.

BUDGETING Provide teens with an opportunity to learn how to budget. We suggest increasing your teen's pocket money and increasing the expenses they are responsible for. This helps them build on the money management skills they developed in primary school.

SPOTTING A GOOD DEAL Strong maths skills will better equip teens to make sound financial decisions as adults. For example, if they understand percentages they can tell if an item on sale is offering a good saving.

Encourage your teen to explore how interest works. Discuss the pros and cons of borrowing money to purchase a car, including how paying interest will affect their monthly repayments, and factoring repayments into their budget to ensure they’re manageable.

Teaching kids how to be smart with their money doesn’t need to be complicated; it just requires consistency and some conscious planning. Talk to your children about money, role-model healthy money behaviour, give them plenty of opportunities to practice their money management skills, and they’ll be well on their way to becoming financially savvy adults.

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

www.peninsulakids.com.au

29

Local

Take a walk on the

with a street art tour!

S

chool holidays are a great time to explore the treasures of your local area. If you’re on the lookout for fun (and free) ideas to entertain the kids on the school holidays, take the kids on an artistic treasure hunt with a self-guided street art tour of Frankston CBD to discover incredible artworks created by some of the world’s best street artists.

There are over 30 artworks to discover on your adventure, but here is a snapshot of some of the more popular ones for kids!

ALICE IN WONDERLAND AND NUTCRACKER MELBOURNE'S MURALS – FRANKSTON Location: Frankston Library Alice in Wonderland is a classic that people of all ages know and love.

Brigitte and Melissa from Melbourne’s Murals painted these mazing artworks which also feature the Nutcracker ballet, giving the Frankston library forecourt a colourful and friendly entrance. This is the perfect visual story to engage children heading into Storytime at the library, or to choose new books to escape into. Can you spot your favourite character?

Whilst at the library, make sure you check out the Stacked Bookshelves artwork on the Playne Street facade of Frankston library. Brigitte and Melissa chose to paint books that represent local authors, adding Rascal the Dragon (a character from Paul Jennings books) as a fun interactive touch for the kids. What’s your favourite book?

ALL THE GREEN YEAR MELBOURNE'S MURALS – FRANKSTON Location: Thompson Lane Down the street and around the corner in Thompson Lane, you’ll find another treasure painted by Melbourne’s Murals Brigitte and Melissa. All the Green Year honours Don Charlwood, an author who lived in Frankston. He wrote a classic tale about a boy called Charlie Reeve and his journey towards adulthood living in a small town on the Mornington Peninsula. What animals can you spot in this picture?

PLOVER LOVER DVATE Location: Wells Lane Created by artist Jimmy Dvate, Plover Lover in Wells Lane was inspired by local flora and fauna and features the hooded plover which is a local endangered species. This incredible artwork shows the various life stages, from egg, chick, fledgling to adult, all surrounded by abstract hazard tape as a symbol of their vulnerability. Have you ever seen a hooded plover at the beach?

30 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

STUDENTS AGAINST GRAFFITI LOCAL PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS Location: Wells Lane Further down Wells Lane you’ll discover artworks painted by local primary and secondary schools titled Students Against Graffiti!

Students worked from brief, to concept, to application on this artwork. The wolf was chosen deliberately with an inspirational quote for the kids: “FOR THE STRENGTH OF THE WOLF IS THE PACK AND THE STRENGTH OF THE PACK IS THE WOLF”.

The six featured panels were competition winners.

FLOWER GIRL MELBOURNE'S MURALS – FRANKSTON (Vicinity Commission) Location: Ross Smith Avenue East A beautiful, earthy mural named Flower Girl can be found in Ross Smith Avenue East. Another impressive large-scale artwork by Melbourne’s Murals, this painting honours local native flowers and the girl’s Indigenous dress pattern was designed by local Bunarong artist, Brianna Webster. Do you think the girl is smiling behind these flowers?

YOU'RE NOT FORGOTTEN STRONG WILL STUDIOS, LLC (US) Location: Gallery Lane Keep exploring down Gallery Lane and you’ll find a giant artwork featuring an 8-metre high Australian kelpie! Created by Helen Martin of Strong Will Studios (USA), it is the artist's hope that the viewer will feel connected to the dog and therefore not be alone.

How do you feel when you look at this amazing art?

PURPLE PLATYPUS IN POLLUTION MIKE MAKATRON Location: Gallery Lane Purple Platypus in Pollution highlights the human cause of plastic in our environment, and its effect on nature. The artwork references the classic theme of message in a bottle. If you look closely, can you spot the letters in the artist’s name (Makatron) within the artwork?

FEARLESS MELBOURNE'S MURALS – FRANKSTON Location: Stiebel Place Another new artwork added in 2020 is Fearless by Melbourne’s Murals. The perfect piece to admire before stopping for a drink or snack, Fearless features the face of a lion to remind us in these turbulent times to be brave and fearless.

Download a map from www.visitfrankston.com/see-do/murals-street-art or drop into the Visitor Information Centre at Frankston foreshore to pick up a map.

Now that you’ve been inspired by your Big Picture Fest treasure hunt, go to thefac.com.au for some arty ideas to keep entertained at home on the rainy days these school holidays. Our Hot Arts for Cool Kids program has been adapted with free and fun activities you can do at home. www.peninsulakids.com.au

31

WHEN DADS PLAY, ROUGH & TUMBLE PLAY WITH OUR KIDS

W

hen the summer sun is shining in the blue sky, it’s easy to head outdoors and roll on the grass with your kids. But what do you do when the cold of a Melbourne winter settles in? If you’re like me, you hide inside where the heaters are warm and cuddle up with the family for TV and popcorn. Now, there’s nothing wrong with some lazy family indoor days but, in winter, kids might be missing out on one of the most important things they need to grow into wonderful and healthy adults: rough and tumble play with their Dad. Dads are amazing at playing with their kids. We love to jump, run, tackle and tickle our kids from the moment they can crawl. And now researchers have discovered that dads don’t just play for fun – we also use play to help our kids develop into awesome adults!

Although the research is still developing, professionals have found that something as simple and enjoyable as playing with your child can have long lasting effects on their life. And you wouldn’t believe the kinds of things that playtime with Dad can help develop.

By David Hawkins

MPT is a professional tutoring service with qualified teachers for Primary & Secondary school aged children.

We provide individualised learning plans for all our students and the tutor comes to you.

Our tutors specialise in English and Maths, work with children in Prep through to VCE, and we tailor our lessons to suit how each student learns best.

MPT is owned and run by Mornington Peninsula local Lauren; who is a qualified primary school teacher and experienced tutor. Lauren is available to chat at all stages of your child’s learning and she works closely with all the tutors to ensure success for each student.

ns’ and ‘study Now offering ‘online lesso packs’ due to covid-19 For more information visit; morningtonpeninsulatutoring.com.au or call Lauren Masciulli on 0401 468 075

32 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

Rough and tumble play can help children learn how to manage their emotions. During play kids will go from calm to giggly-screaming hyper-stimulated and then back again in a matter of seconds, which assists them in becoming used to big emotional changes. It has also been linked to children being less aggressive and having fewer behavioural problems as they grow up.

!REGNO TS

KIDS GROW STRONGER! A surprising benefit of playtime with Dad is that it helps your child learn how to socially interact with others. Kids who rough and tumble play with their dads are often more confident and more popular with other children. This kind of play has even been connected to children doing better academically at school!

You can start having rough and tumble playtime with your child from around the age of one and all the way up to their teens. It’s not important how long you play for but doing it regularly will help your child develop positively for their future.

Take advantage of being inside during winter by playing on the couch, on the carpet and on the beds!

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF PLAYTIME: • TAKE TURNS – remember to let your child be on top and take charge at times. There is nothing as exciting as feeling like you have defeated a giant!

• B E WARM & SUPPORTIVE – play isn’t about winning. It’s about having fun and showing your child how important they are to you.

• LOTS OF CUDDLES – the best kind of play to help your kids develop is physical. Kicking a ball is good but cuddly tackles and roll-about wrestling is even better.

Family fun at Cranbourne Gardens

• GIRLS & BOYS – rough & tumble playtime is important for girls too! So, grab your daughter and tumble her around.

• DAD IS THE REFEREE – the adult is the only one who thinks about consequences. It is up to you to keep your child safe, no matter how much fun you’re having.

ROUGH & TUMBLE PLAYTIME IDEAS: • Pillow-land wrestling: make an arena of pillows and cushions, then find out who is the cuddle-wrestling champion!

• Footy challenge: who can get the ball out of Dad’s hands? This works best when you are down at their level.

• Stop the Giant: Your job is to stand up; the kids have to keep you on the ground. It’s pile-on time!

• Tickle monster – a game of tiggy where the person who is in has to grab and tickle everyone else.

For more information, check out the “rough play guide” at www.raisingchildren.net.au

David Hawkins is a Peninsula-based stay-at-home-dad who realised that he needed to improve his Dadding. So he set himself the simple task of being an Awesome Dad. He now challenges all dads to be awesome dads, by doing something out-of-the ordinary with their kids.

LET’S SWIM AGAIN!

We’ve been working really hard behind the scenes to ensure our pools are COVID safe and in line with Government health advice.

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

We can’t wait to see our returning customers, and welcome new swimmers to our world class program!

LEARN FROM THE SURVIVAL SPECIALISTS Paul Sadler Swimland Carrum Downs 149 Hall Rd Carrum Downs (03) 9782 9444 carrumdowns@paulsadlerswimland.com paulsadlerswimland.com.au

www.peninsulakids.com.au

33

Celebrate

You’ll Need: -Rectangle cardboard box -Box cutter (for big people) -Contact paper/paint -Packing tape -Recycled caps, lids, containers -Hot glue gun -Imagination

at home with

34 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

While Stan has something for everyone, not everything is suitable for kids.

Use Stan’s parental controls to ensure everyone in your family finds the shows right for them.

Stan is available for a free 30-day trial so get streaming today and let the fun begin!

www.stan.com.au

www.peninsulakids.com.au

35

August 2nd – Sisters' Day

July 17th – World Emoji Day The holiday was created in 2014

by Jeremy Burge to celebrate emojis and to popularize their usage. Burge is the creator of Emojipedia, a reference website for emojis. He chose July 17 as the date for the observance because of the way the calendar emoji is displayed on iPhones—a calendar that has July 17 as the default date.

July 20th – Space Exploration Day

Celebrated on the first Sunday of August, the unofficial holiday of Sisters’ Day honours the strong bond that people share with their sister(s).

The holiday encourages people to celebrate the special relationship between them and their sister(s), and not only the blood-related ones.

Wacky Winter Days to Celebrate

August 26th – Dog Appreciation Day

The annual holiday commemorates the anniversary of the first manned mission to the moon.

On July 20,1969, Americans astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to set foot on the surface of the moon.

Founded in 2004 by pet and family lifestyle expert and animal behaviourist Colleen Paige, the day honours dogs for all that they do to enrich our lives and communities.

The holiday also aims to raise awareness about dog adoption and the importance of providing rescue dogs with a safe and loving environment.

Source: timeanddate.com

Social Dis tancing is EASY a t Sk8hou se!

We have plenty of s p ace for every one.

WE ARE OPEN! With Fun & Games at General Sessions PLUS Sk8 Classes

Sanitised between every session Easy-clean polycarbonate anti-bacterial barriers Hand sanitising stations NEW on-line booking system

Strictly limited capacity - BOOK NOW to avoid disappointment!

PLUS: BRAND NEW lighting & sound systems Rink has been freshly re-surfaced & re-painted!

O

.C E S

BOOK

NOW!

36 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

OU

H

8 K .S

W

WW

U A .

M

Session Times & Pricing available on our website

3/2 Amayla Cres Carrum Downs VIC 3201 ph. 9773 6799 info@sk8house.com.au @sk8houseau

party

PLANNING 01

02

03

Pa R Ty

Experiments

Explosions

Explore

04

05

Slime

Surprise

Fu N!

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

The Science Shed

The Science Shed comes to your home for your next birthday party! Children can dress up in real lab coats and safety glasses and experience their own hands on experiments. Science, slime and much more.

M: 0419 882 765 or info@thescienceshed.com.au www.thescienceshed.com.au

Art Party with Colour Your World Art

Look no further, an Art Party is a great way to celebrate that special day in your life.

Mobile service available.

M: 0417 425 116 www.colouryourworldart.com

KIDZTOWN PARTY VENUES

Mornington & Seaford

Ceramic Painting Parties

Unique & creative party experience!

Fully facilitated by Arty Pants in the comfort of your own home. Every party guest creates their own masterpiece to keep!

Call Kirsty: M: 0417 155 929 facebook.com/artypantsau

Kidztown

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

Charlie SillyPants Parties Melbourne Madness

The kids’show! show! Come on an adventure The ultimate Ultimate kids full of magic and laughter Charlie SillyPants Come on an adventure full ofwith Magic and laughter and Parties, preschool with friends.

Charlie SillyPants and friends!and childcare.

Parties, M: 0411pre-school 957 185and childcare. www.melbournemadness.net p: 0411 957 185 www.melbournemadness.net INDOOR PLAY CENTRE DOOR PLAY CENTRE INand

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BOOK A PARTY FROM IN&CHILDREN’S 3.30PM PAY ONLY BIRTHDAY $18 per CHILD

PARTIES NORMALLY $22/CHILD

OPEN FOR OPEN FOR DINNER DINNER FRIDAY FRIDAY NIGHTS NIGHTS TILL 7pm TILL 7pm

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 www.stardustfairies.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 www.fairyfrecklesandfriends.com.au

222 Marine Parade, Hastings Kidzshed P: 5906 5900 www.kidzshed.com.au

Book your next kids 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 www.kidzshed.com.au www.peninsulakids.com.au

37

1

MiniLUX Reusable glass coffee cup perfect for baby chinos, piccolos, espressos, kids milkshakes etc. Luxey is a luxurious lifestyle brand that designs beautiful, reusable cups in every size.

RRP: $34.95 www.luxeycup.com

G

O

TO

an ce

to W

IN!

Pass The Pen

pe

ch ur o y nin or sula ys f a kids.co w a m.au/give

3

2

With the pen tip disappearing as you play, you only have 10 seconds to draw while all the other players guess. Is that a hamburger? A snowman? A sumo wrestler? You earn points if someone gets it right; if not, you Pass the Pen to the next player, and they pick up where you left off! With over 500 objects to draw, it’s fast, fun and guaranteed to draw plenty of laughter from the whole family. Suitable 3 or more players ages 8+. Available now at Kmart!

RRP: $29.00

Rummikub Rummikub is the world’s #1 selling tile game and one of the most-played family games in the world, available in over 50 countries & in 26 languages. With brilliant simplicity, the Rummikub Original provides hours of amusement and every game is different. Players try to place runs or groups of their tiles down in the play area.

The first player to use all their tiles accumulating the highest score is the winner. This is a classic game suitable for the whole family! (2+ players, aged 8 and up.)

RRP: $34.95

4

Sequence

It's fun, it's challenging, it's exciting, it's Sequence! Play a card from your hand and place a chip on a corresponding space on the game board. When you have five in a row, it's a Sequence. Learn to block your opponents or remove their chips and watch out for the Jacks - they're wild! With a little strategy and luck, you'll be a winner. For 2-12 players, ages 7 and up.

Available at all leading retailers.

RRP: $29.00

The Spice Tailor

38 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

5

A family Indian night is a great way of engaging with children, to teach them about the wonderful, diverse, and vibrant Indian culture. The Spice Tailor are known for their authentic, tasty Indian food (made without any nasties) which is super quick and easy to make with your kids and is designed for the whole family to enjoy.

They have an easy three step process to creating a restaurant quality meal that the children can get involved in: An Indian tune playlist found on your favourite streaming service, a hearty Indian feast courtesy of The Spice Tailor, and an Indian-based family movie, such as The Jungle Book, Mr India, Krrish Series, Dangal, Taare Zameen Par, or I am Kalam.

6

Magabala Book Pack x 3 books

Pop! The Pig

Respect

By Fay Stewart-Muir Sue Lawson, Illustrated by Lisa Kennedy Respect is the first title in the ‘Our Place’ series of four children’s picture books which welcome and introduce children to important elements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.

Respect whispers a soft and heartfelt message about the basic cultural principle that informs all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nations throughout Australia. Respect is about a way of life that is older than flickering stars, about stories that shimmer through tall grasses, and redgum leaves that tumble to a parched and red earth. It teaches children the importance of family who show the way and how we need to listen, learn and share.

RRP: $24.99

8

Jax + Ryd Earrings JAX + RYD earrings are designed and handmade by local mum Janelle Wood. Named after Janelle's beautiful boys Jaxon and Ryder, Janelle's passion for jewellery and her artistic flair enables her to keep ahead of the trends, continuously creating beautiful pieces to complement any outfit, anytime of the day. www.jaxandryd.com.au

What do you call a baby…?

Illustrated by Kamsani Bin Salleh What do you call a baby…? is an entertaining way for all children to learn the nouns that describe some of our iconic Australian baby animals. Baby frogs are called tadpoles, but what do we call a baby goanna, a baby eagle, or a baby echidna? This stunning title introduces young children to their amazing names — hatchling, eaglet and puggle.

Kamsani Bin Salleh’s exquisite illustrations and pastel colour palette captures the tender bond of an animal ‘parent and baby’ and makes this little book a truly delightful journey of discovery.

This eloquent and delicate story shows young and old alike, what Respect looks like for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

RRP: $12.99

Willy-willy Wagtail

By Helen Milroy 'Tales from the Bush Mob' is a series of books about the Bush Mob, a group of animals that works together to solve problems. A rich landscape of characters and places populate this series and include Platypus, Koala, Emu, Wombat, Kookaburra, Echidna, Kangaroo and Gusto, the wind. Places include Willy Wagtail’s Tree, Dingo’s Den, Old Billabong, Bird Meeting Place, Cockatoo’s Nesting Trees, Top Camp and Emu Race Track. Willy-willy Wagtail is the first book in the series and goes back to before Bush Mob get together and nobody understands each other – and there are lots of fights. One day there is a terrible bush fire and Willy Wagtail, Gusto (the wind) and Crow get all the Bush Mob to work together to save the community. For the first time, everyone understands each other and Dingo takes charge and leads all the animals to safety. Dingo is now Boss Dog and is head of the Bush Council, with Willy Wagtail and Crow – the Bush Mob is formed. The next two titles are The Emu Who Ran through the Sky (July 2020) and The Sweetest Egg of All (October 2020).

RRP: $22.99

7

An international best-seller, Pop! The Pig keeps everyone on their toes. Simply spin the die, pop a hamburger into the pig’s mouth, and if he eats too much, he will suddenly pop! The whole family will love the suspense as you watch his belly grow.

Pop! The Pig provides hours of family fun and is completely kid powered (no batteries needed).

Suitable for 2-6 players aged 4+. Available now at leading retailers!

RRP $39.95

9

Rubik’s 3x3 The Rubik’s Cube has been a family favourite since the 80’s, and if you’re a fan then you’re going to love Rubik’s 3x3. Rubik’s Cube has over 43 Quintillion possible moves and with practice you can learn to solve it in under 10 seconds.

Rubik’s 3x3 Available now at leading retailers!

RRP: $29.00

O1

Musical Cuddle Bug Cuddle up with this adorable Musical Cuddle Bug, featuring a variety of soft fabrics and colourful patterns. Press the eight legs of the Musical Cuddle Bug to learn Do-Re-Mi, colours and shapes. Pressing the colour changing tummy star button plays even more fun responses, including sing-along songs and melodies. Pressing the leg buttons while playing melodies reveals the melody note by note. Choose between Day mode and Night mode: Day mode plays fun and exciting melodies for daytime play; whilst Night mode plays soothing and calming classical melodies for when it's bedtime.

The Musical Cuddle Bug is suitable for babies from 6 to 36 months, and available now from Kmart.

RRP $29.95

Books available in all good book shops and from: www.magabala.com

www.peninsulakids.com.au

39

Education

10 TIPS FOR CREATING YOUR IDEAL

N

umerous studies have found that the place - or “context’- in which you study affects how you’ll remember that information.

Of course every student knows this, since all of us have tried to read in a loud cafe or at an aunt’s house on Melbourne Cup Day or while someone in the house is practicing guitar. Some study sessions are more effective than others.

Even if you can’t make people nearby whisper like they’re in a library, this is ultimately good news, because you have a lot of control over where you choose to study. Wherever you live, wherever you tend to study, consider these tips for creating the best study space out of your environment. continued next page...

40 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

for creating your ideal study space...

P ick one place, and like it

If you designate one room or area as your study space, over time your brain will catch on. You’ll enter into ‘study-mode’ sooner upon entering the space, which is especially valuable before tests or whenever you’re crunched for time. Moving between libraries and coffee shops and friends’ apartments can be mentally jolting, since you’ll always have new distractions to process and overcome.

The place you pick should be near you (ideally somewhere in your home) so it’s accessible, but it should also be a place you like. Studying can be stressful, so it’s best done in a place with colors, decór, and feng shui that appeal to you.

Recreate your environment

“Context-dependent” learning means that that you’ll remember something more in the place where you first learned it. So, if you studied Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs in a lecture-style classroom with big windows, you may recall them best in that same or a very similar classroom. This means that you should create a study space that evokes the same atmosphere as where you’ll be tested on that information.

Obviously, you can’t stage your apartment with desks and a lectern, but you can make a similar environment by regulating temperature, smells, and noises.

Get comfortable - but not too comfortable

Professional writers and anyone who works from home have a lot to say about this, and their advice is usually contradictory. Some people work the majority of their lives in sweat pants and a grungy t-shirt; others dress in full business attire before sitting down at the desk in their study. Because you want to enjoy the place where you study, you should be comfortable—but not too comfortable. Change out of your pajamas before you crack open your books to give your mind another signal that this isn’t lounge time, but study time.

42 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

Look for natural light

Humans love natural light. It can make or break a space, as anyone who’s worked under fluorescents for nine hours a day knows. Even a little natural light, reflected off a hallway mirror can bring real warmth and vitality to a room, both of which are necessary for making the best study space.

Don’t look into the light

Light shining directly into your eyes is distracting, sometimes painful, and unproductive for studying. Of course, no light is just as bad, so when you’re creating your study environment, pay attention to where you place and position the lights. For reading, it can be effective to have the light behind you, going over your shoulder to illuminate your textbook. For your desk, it is recommended that you position the lamp shades at chin level, so the source is always out of view.

Swap music for ambient noise

Some students love listening to music while they review notes.

Their minds really can focus—but more than a few would still probably focus better with no music. Songs can put you in a good mood, but if you’re paying more attention to lyrics than the procedures you’re supposed to learn, music is counterproductive—and anyway, not something you’ll hear in a test room.

Instead, try an ambient noise machine or program, or at least switch to classical music. Orchestras can produce the same pleasant effects without taking your mind off the words on a page.

Buy some plants

It’s been proven by NASA that certain houseplants improve indoor air quality, and something green and alive just makes a study space more serene. If you live in your designated study space, buy a low-maintenance houseplant, like aloe or a snake plant. As long as you remember to water it, a plant can make your environment more peaceful, and easier to breathe.

Turn off your phone

Don’t put it in your pocket. Don’t turn it over. Turn it off, or at least switch on airplane mode. When you’re studying, your phone can be your biggest distraction. Even just knowing it’s there, and that texts or Instagram likes might be coming through, will affect your focus. Switching it off can be mentally liberating, so unless you’re expecting an important call, do it whenever you sit down to study.

Keep it positive

Studying has a lot of negative associations, but it shouldn’t Studying is just another word for learning. Remember that studying is good, that it’s going to help you, and that the future career ahead of you is exciting.

You can bring this positivity into your study space too, by putting up pictures of family, or quotes from your favorite book. Unless you thrive on clutter, tidy up your space regularly to keep it nice.

You should also remember to reward yourself, because as good as studying is, it’s work, and you’ve earned it.

Remember to leave

If you’ve created the best study space, you’re going to love being there; it might even be your favorite part of your apartment. You’ll be tempted to do everything there—watch Netflix, sit and call your mother, and chat with friends—but whenever possible, your study space should just be used for studying. Making it a designated study area will preserve its association with learning. When you leave, and you should, your mind will realize it can take a break, and recharge until the next session

Source: ameritech.edu. www.peninsulakids.com.au

43

By Kim Norton

S

itting on the floor of the bathroom in utter despair, half naked, glass of wine in one hand, tissues in the other. How could this happen? What did I do wrong? It was not meant to happen this way. I was meant to have kids that would not go through this. My kids were meant to be happy, healthy and all things nice. My kids were going to have everything. My kids were going to have the “Brady Bunch” family that my husband did. I did all this work on myself to make this happen: I broke the family chain, I did the hard work, I did all of those years of counselling and therapy and now this. Now he has Autism and I have been told he will never amount to anything, to not hold out “any hope” for a decent future, that “he will be lucky to be packing supermarket shelves as an adult”.

The only chance he had was to be medicated and to go to a “Special” school, you know the one that you go to on that blue bus and get heckled and bullied by all the “normal” kids in the street.

Where did I go wrong? Where do I go from here?

I allowed myself a week or two to cry and grieve what was supposed to be and then got on with the job. Looking at myself in the mirror, I said “F that”! This was not about me. This was about him. “This was about him”; that realisation hit me like a ton of bricks. This was about him. There were appointments to make, funds to raise and a family that needed me, a family that needed me to be strong, to be there and to “show up”. There was no more time for grieving.

With no social media like there is today, Dr Google became my best friend as did my newly appointed Counsellor who led me down the path of anti-depressants and high blood pressure medications. I was happy to medicate myself at the time but not my son. I wanted to try everything else first. I wanted to leave medication for him for as long as possible.

44 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

Workshops, seminars, courses, training, endless phone calls, emails and petitioning pursued. This is something that only other Special Needs Parents/Carers can understand: That fight that you find in you, that drive and determination you did not know existed, it just rises from the depths of your soul, it is a knowing that you are here to advocate and to do a job that must be done.

Friends drifted away (you can only turn down so many invitations before you stop getting invited) and family were either unavailable, did not understand or just did not want to. With no time to waste I left my job to devote all of my time to him. I was now a full time Autism Mum and not the high flying corporate chick I had thought I would be. I was lucky to

I wish I could say it all gets easier, but I can’t. The fight is constant.

It never goes away. It will push every single boundary and button you have and some days it will break you. Some days it will break you into a million pieces but then you will look into those eyes, those eyes that melt your soul, those eyes that say “thank you” and that say “I love you” even when their words cant and believe me you will melt and you will continue to fight.

Some days you will retreat, and you will find yourself back in the bathroom. Back in the bathroom sitting on the floor, glass in one hand and tissues in the other but this time you will remind yourself of how far you have come, you will remind yourself of what you are doing right, not of what you have done wrong. You will remind yourself that you know exactly where to go from here. The path has been set, you will cry and release and then you will pick yourself up and you will get on with the job for you to are an Autism Mum, and that is what we do.

be able to do this, but I was utterly exhausted; my brain was fried, and my soul was so very tired. Little did I know this was just the beginning.

12 years later he is still unmedicated and is attending a mainstream high school. Medication was always on the table and was something that I was trying to hold off on until puberty. Now it looks like we can hold off a little while longer as he is coping with all of life’s adventures, some days better than others but that is just like all of us really. I was able to come off my own medications and replace them with natural therapies; something that is not achievable and not even advisable for all, but something I was determined to do for me.

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 at her studio in Langwarrin.

Also working with special needs kids, Kim is an NDIS registered provider and runs workshops for people of all abilities on various topics throughout the year.

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

45

By Melissa Schoorman

T

he first five years of a child’s life are pivotal, not only in the acquisition of language, gross motor, and other skills, but also in developing a sense of self, a connection to others, and an understanding of the world we live in. Research shows that up to 90 percent of the brain’s development has already taken

46 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

place before a child begins primary school, and we know that the brain at this age is like a sponge; it soaks up information both consciously and subconsciously. The more knowledge and stimuli you can feed a child’s brain before they begin Prep, the more nourished it will be for years to come. continued next page...

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

Frankston House Sanctuary of Early Learning 1-3 Vera Street Frankston Email: info@frankstonhouse.com.au Phone: 9783 1117

www.frankstonhouse.com.au

Your most precious people are our priority

Mt Eliza House Sanctuary of Early Learning 41 Baden Powell Place Mt Eliza Email: info@mtelizahouse.com.au Phone: 9787 0788

www.mtelizahouse.com.au

Early Learning programs assist in improving a child’s health and wellbeing, literacy and numeracy skills, the development of strong social interactions, and actively promoting a love for learning. It may be hard to envision when they are so young, but by investing in a robust Early Learning education, you are choosing a pathway and steering your child in the right direction for a bright educational future.

How can you ensure your child’s future is as bright as it can be?

It is never too early to begin learning From the age of two, consider introducing your child to music lessons, dance lessons, sports lessons, or playgroup. At a playgroup session, children and their parents work together with other toddlers and adults.

They are taught how to take turns, listen and respond, and respond to the emotions of others. These skills are introduced through intentional social interactions, sensory tasks, and skill development tasks. These can be sport-based - playing with soft balls to enhance their motor skills and coordination or performing arts-based - dancing to music, singing, and interacting with others. Your child’s interpersonal qualities will increase and be honed by exposure to other children.

As a four-year-old, academics start to play a prominent role in their daily regime. Literacy and numeracy lay the foundations for their future learning, and they should be exposed to new experiences that enhance different parts of the brain. The brain controls our thoughts, memory and speech, movement of the arms and legs, and the function of many organs within our body. Robust Early Learning programs will incorporate a wide range of activities and lessons to ensure your child is being stimulated academically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. As they approach the transition to Prep, your child should be able to organise themselves, go to the bathroom alone, brush their teeth, arrange their lunch box, and recognise social and moral situations.

Keep the brain stimulated to enable child development, both academically and socially Children in Early Learning will learn skills that they will need throughout their life. They learn how to play with others, begin to learn the art of compromise, develop empathy, gather

Look for progress markers that inform how your child is developing At the beginning of every child’s learning journey, they should feel excited to start a new chapter in their life. As a three-year-old, the objectives should focus on developing independence and resilience.

Melissa Schoorman is the Head of Wardle House and Deputy Principal at Toorak College

IT’S FOOTY FEVER TIME HERE AT CHOCOLATE GROVE

LOOK OUT for our NEW Online Store Coming Soon!

45g

To celebrate the restart of the footy season we are giving away a FREE AUSSIE FOOTBALL made from Smooth Milk Chocolate, when you spend over $30 in our Chocolate Shop*. Comes in a range of dazzling foil colours. * Promotion runs from Sat 4th July to Sat 31st October.

SPECIAL LIMITED EDITION - OUT NOW! Mi-tee Mallows Don’t miss out on our limited edition puffy & pillowy marshmallows. Coated in smooth milk chocolate and drizzled with creamy white chocolate.

Just Delicious!

AY TUB TAKE A2W 50g

CHOCOLATE SHO P & HISTO RY C EN TR E 48 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

Be FiRST...

HASTINGS | 5979 2831 FRANKSTON SOUTH | 9783 3390 ENDEAVOUR HILLS | 9700 1922

| CHILDCARE | KINDERGARTEN | EARLY EDUCATION | What our little learners say about FiRST BLAKE

“I always love playing with my friends”

ELIJAH

COHEN

“I love it. I love the swings and slide”

“I shoot hoops and ride the big bikes”

CHLOE

PEYTON

COOPER

“Kinder is fun and I like playing outside”

“I like to see my friends”

“Yes, I love these blocks”

HOLLY

KASPER

TEX

“Playing with the trees and watching the moon”

• 3 & 4 year old kinder programs, providing confidence, school readiness and Success

“Playing with stuff and playing outside”

“I like playing with my friend Veronika”

• A qualified and experienced team who know how to educate and welcome all children into our homely early learning centre whilst giving 100% genuine care

• Open door policy welcoming and encouraging feedback from all families and involving • Story park and educator’s families in their child’s early years App allowing families to view adventures and contribute to their child’s learning journey • Educational programs offered to give our little learners uninterrupted and endless opportunities when discovering their learning environments and FUN play spaces

• Fully funded excursions and incursions for the children, including beach and bush kinder, swimming lessons, yoga and plenty more!

| HASTINGS | FRANKSTON SOUTH | ENDEAVOUR HILLS |

‘About children being children’

firstearlylearning.vic.edu.au www.peninsulakids.com.au 49

TAKE THE

VIRTUAL TOUR

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 50 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

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

51

TOORAK COLLEGE

Putting the X factor in early years STEM education Our youngest learners are inquisitive and curious, and they are constantly seeking ways to make meaning of their world.

Having grown up in the age of smartphones, Siri, artificial intelligence, and augmented reality, 3 and 4 year old students are naturally digitally literate and STEM-intuitive.

With research telling us that the majority of jobs for this generation are not yet invented, it is important that we not only encourage their interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, but also extend their STEM skills in the formative years.

At Toorak College, each day our Early Learning children experience a plethora of play-based activities coupled with the intentional teaching of literacy and numeracy. We then complement our program with a range of specialist classes, including STEM-X.

73-93 Old Mornington Rd, Mount Eliza VIC 3930

STEM-X explores concepts and brings to life experiences that are relevant to the lives of 3 and 4 year old children, focusing on the exploration of ‘real world’ challenges and problem solving.

The ‘X factor’ - ensuring students engage in STEM through their own interests and passions - is what sets us apart and ensures that we are developing confident and involved learners. It is nurturing children who are not just problem solvers but problem finders so that they develop their innovation skills from an early age. Children who love to cook can see how science comes into play in the kitchen, those who love fairy tales investigate what happens when you build a castle using different materials, or animal lovers can compare and hypothesize the sizes and weights of different species.

This year, the focus of STEM-X has been to extend the experiences occurring in the Early Learning classrooms.

9788 7200

During Lego Week, students designed and built aerodynamic cars using Lego Technic then raced them to see which car could go the farthest and the fastest. When the class was reading ‘Who Sank The Boat,’ children explored the concepts of sinking and floating. Recently, students have shown interest in our Solar System, so in STEM-X they worked in teams to hypothesize, compare and contrast the size and structure of each planet.

I am proud that through our specialist program, children are fine-tuning skills such as questioning, problem-solving, calculating, measuring, and experimenting. I have no doubt these skills will hold them in good stead for the future.

Melissa Schoorman is the Head of Wardle House and Deputy Principal at Toorak College

www.toorakcollege.vic.edu.au

JOHN PAUL COLLEGE

A community of vibrant learning Explore John Paul College through an online tour experience via our website and discover what makes JPC a place to learn, grow and thrive.

Enrolments for Y7 2022 Close on Friday 21st August 2020

Take the tour at jpc.vic.edu.au

A vibrant learning community John Paul College is a unique co-educational Catholic Secondary School in Frankston.

The College strives to be a centre of excellence and inspiration within the community; students are encouraged to be motivated and passionate about both their learning and their community involvement.

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.”

A sense of belonging and community are integral to the culture of the school, making John Paul College a unique environment for student growth and learning.

Students know that they are part of a bigger family and our structures encourage them to help and support each other.

161 Mcmahons Rd, Frankston VIC 3199

We aim to challenge students; to appointed space; comprising Frankston VIC 3199 | 03 9784 0200 | johnpaul@jpc.vic.edu.au inspire them toMcMahons achieve, Road, to explore modern facilities for music, drama, and understand different ways of dance, media and fine arts. John thinking and to take advantage Paul College students thrive with of the many opportunities that the opportunities presented to them are available to them. Students within the performing arts. Here can be involved in a whole array they form new friendships, they of sports and can take part in grow significantly in confidence activities including debating, public and they achieve a strong sense of speaking, community service, identity and pride. youth ministry, social justice, theatre Social justice initiatives are sports, chess club and performing flourishing through our fundraising arts activities. efforts and immersion programs The College grounds are large to the Philippines, East Timor and and beautifully landscaped, India. Students willingly volunteer providing space for students to for a number of social justice learn and play. Our excellent initiatives and we are very proud facilities include a modern and of our young people who, in their well-appointed Resource Centre, service to others, enrich both their Individual Learning Centre and own lives and those around them.

VCAL dedicated classrooms See for yourself the many and and our fully equipped Food varied opportunities for your son or Technology Centre and Science daughter at John Paul College via laboratories. our Online Tour Experience on our The Ngargee Centre for Performing website; jpc.vic.edu.au. and Visual Arts is a beautifully

9784 0200

www.jpc.vic.edu.au

jpc.vic.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

9581 1200

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

MOOROODUC PRIMARY SCHOOL

Creating a caring, engaging and inspiring environment My name is Peter Quigley and I’m very fortunate to be the Principal of Moorooduc Primary School.

Moorooduc is a unique, small school located in a lovely rural environment. I am looking forward to the 2020 school year and am excited by the promise that every student will be a happy and successful member of the Moorooduc community.

As a school we strive to create a caring, engaging and inspiring environment where all students learn and fulfil their potential socially, emotionally and physically, to become responsible lifelong learners in a changing world. All members of our learning community collaborate closely together with a focus on teaching and learning and student results, inside a highly effective engagement and wellbeing program.

Relationships are central to the work we do. We actively work

with parents to create the best outcomes for our students and provide multiple opportunities for them to work closely with teachers and contribute in a positive way to our community.

Parents can engage in policy decisions through our school council or become a part of the extremely hard working Parents’ Association who plan and run many community building and fund raising events.

Students are actively encouraged to develop leadership skills throughout the school, with an active student representative council and student led lunchtime programs.

2020 is an extremely exciting year, our refurbished Visual Arts/Science room is now fully operational and we have a new junior playground planned for midway through this year.

students are extended with engaging and challenging learning tasks.

Our gifted program sees students collaborating with students across a range of schools on advanced programs and projects.

I firmly believe in the capacity of all of our students to make their mark on the world, and am committed to providing an education that will positively influence their lives and provide opportunities for a successful future. At Moorooduc Primary School there is a commitment from all staff to ensure every child can be the best they can be.

As we are unable to offer personalised school tours at this time please visit the school website for a virtual tour or call the office and make a time to talk to either myself or our Assistant Principal Susan Cahill.

Our school has developed a strategic program of interventions that ensures that all of our

Derril Rd, Moorooduc VIC 3933

5978 8330

moorooducps.vic.edu.au

WOODLEIGH SCHOOL

Year 5 at Woodleigh School A great time to join Year 5 is a busy year at Woodleigh. It's here that we add a second stream of students – bringing new energy and ideas – and it's also here that we set students on their journey through Woodleigh's unique 'Homestead' Program.

But what is Homestead?

Homestead is a home-awayfrom-home for students that bridges the academic and pastoral elements of education.

It is a place where students are known and valued, where they have the opportunity to lead and succeed; and where individually-tailored learning programs and a vibrant curriculum work to get the most from every student.

At Woodleigh, strong core literacy and numeracy programs are complemented by an extensive range of co-curricular Sports, Arts, Activity, Camp,

LOTE and Cultural Programs.

This wide range of programs and real-world experiences mean that Year 5 and 6 students at Woodleigh discover and follow their passions while growing in a culture of mutual respect, cultural freedom and inclusion.

Camp and cultural experiences see our students travel far and wide. Wherever they go, our students explore new environments and cultures together; building friendships, resilience, resourcefulness, and gaining invaluable life experience.

Back at school, our Year 5 & 6 students come together regularly with students at the Senior Campus for crosscampus and peer-teaching activities, including wholeschool musicales, cultural days, festivals, sports and excursions.

460 Mornington-Tyabb Rd, Moorooduc VIC 3933

5978 8425

485 Golf Links Rd, Langwarrin South VIC 3911

5971 6100

3 Minimbah Ct, Frankston VIC 3199

9788 6488

Students get to know their way around the Senior Campus, and by the time they arrive for their first day of Year 7, they are confident and comfortable.

As a candidate school for the International Baccalaureate Primary Years and Middle Years Programmes, there is academic continuity from Year 6 to Year 7, smoothing the transition to Secondary education.

When the first day of Year 7 arrives, our students are ready to hit the ground running.

To find out more about what a Woodleigh education can offer your child, or to join us in Year 5, either next year or later on, please contact our Enrolments Team on 5971 6100 or email enrol@woodleigh.vic.edu.au.

David Baker - Principal

www.woodleigh.vic.edu.au

ST JOHN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL

A message from our new principal While this is a difficult time for everyone, I’d like to introduce St John’s Catholic Primary School.

As the new Principal of the school this year it has been a somewhat interesting start. What has struck me the most about the school, is the wonderful people in the community and the wide range of support and care they have shown for one another.

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 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.

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)

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

Jayne St, Frankston VIC 3199

9789 9794

www.sjfrankstoneast.catholic.edu.au

School Aged

ELLA DIARIES: THE SUPER-SECRET CLUB

BY MEREDITH COSTAIN

5+yrs, Scholastic, p/b, $7.99 Ella and Olivia are going to the Royal Show!

There's so much to see and do. But will luck be on their side?

7+yrs, Scholastic, p/b, $12.99 Something very WEIRD is going on at school.

Ella’s second-best BFFs keep WHISPERING super-secretively in class and DISAPPEARING at lunch time. Then Ella finds a fancy envelope on her desk with an invitation to join SOAP, the Secret Organisation for Amazing People... is she about to get to the bottom of the mystery?

MIGHTY MITCH #5 DAY/NIGHT DECIDER!

BY KELLY GARDINER

ELLA AND OLIVIA: THE ROYAL SHOW

BY YVETTE POSHOGLIAN

FIRE WATCHER #2 PHOENIX

BY MITCHELL STARC

7+yrs, Scholastic, p/b, $12.99 Mitch is getting ready for the biggest game of his life. But Coach has a surprise in store for Mitch and his team: they’re going to be playing at night, under lights! And with a pink ball! Can Mitch and his team end the season on a high?

8+yrs, Scholastic, p/b, $14.99 May 1941. The Blitz is reaching its fiery climax.

Christopher tries to go back to 1666; to find his new friends and learn more about the power of his phoenix ring. Christopher must discover why the ring has brought him here, and how to get back to his own time.

EMERGENCY RESCUE ANGEL

200 MINUTES OF DANGER

9+yrs, Scholastic, p/b $16.99 Life has returned to routine for Mitch. Mostly.

He’s had to find a new kind of normal after his dad drowned, saving a local kid. But now there's a new girl in Mitch’s class and she is stirring things up. Her name is Max, she dresses a bit goth, and suddenly seems to be everywhere. She is Mitch’s emergency rescue angel, and just the kind of friend you want on your side when life gets tricky.

10+yrs, Scholastic, p/b, $12.99 10 stories–10 dangerous situations–10 brave kids–20 minutes to escape.

Quinn gets thrown overboard into an icy ocean.

Can he outwit the circling shark? Ashling is watching a history-making science experiment— but it's about to go horribly wrong... Oscar hides from two secret agents while something much more dangerous hunts all three of them!

BY CATE WHITTLE

Win!

Pre - School THE WONDERFUL WISDOM OF ANTS

BY PHILIP BUNTING

4+yrs, Scholastic, h/b, $17.99 The answers to life’s biggest questions can be found in the smallest places, once you’re ready to look. Get set for an insightful (and hilarious) peek into what we can learn from the world of the ant.

SAY CHEESE

BY FRANCES WATTS

3+yrs, Scholastic, h/b, $24.99 Maxwell Mouse the photographer is trying to take school photos at South Furriest Public School.

But some students just won't stay still!

And others won't look at the camera! Can Maxwell get all of the students to SAY CHEESE?

Book Reviews OLD MACDONALD HAD A FARM

ILLUSTRATED BY MATT SHANKS

1+yrs, Scholastic, p/b $15.99 Old MacDonald had a farm, e-i-e-i-o.

Old MacDonald is working on the farm. But he’d better watch out . . . the cheeky Australian animals are up to mischief!

HEART AND SOUL

BY CAROL ANN MARTIN

4+yrs, Scholastic, h/b, $24.99 Charlie and his dog Louis are a musical team.

Charlie plays the trumpet and Louis sings his oohooh song. But when Charlie falls ill, Louis is left on his own. Louis no longer sings. He no longer wags his tail. Until, one day, Louis hears the familiar notes from a trumpet..

BY JACK HEATH

A PERFECT LITTLE MONSTER

BY PENNY MORRISON

3+yrs, Scholastic, h/b, $15.99 Fang and Iris are brother and sister monsters, but they couldn't be more different! Iris likes to make a lot of noise and Fangs likes to listen quietly. What happens on their first day of school?

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

58 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

RIBBIT RABBIT ROBOT

BY VICTORIA MACKINLAY

4+yrs, Scholastic, h/b, $17.99 This lamp is enchanted and I am the genie. I'll grant all your wishes, but don't be a meanie... When a friendly frog, a greedy rabbit and a robot with a short fuse discover a magic lamp, chaos follows... and friendship is found.

ADVENTUROUS

MINDS are excited by their learning. Curious and energised, they see a ground for innovation, originality and vision.

They embrace new discoveries, test their boundaries and master challenges as they grow.

JOIN OUR ONLINE INFORMATION SESSION WITH THE PRINCIPAL , DAVID BAKER Tue 28 July 7.30pm – BOOK NOW VIA WEBSITE www.woodleigh.school/enrol PRIVATE CAMPUS TOURS AVAILABLE Contact our Enrolments Team for more details regarding our tours during the COVID-19 period.

Y E A R 5 2 0 21 E N RO L L I N G N OW

5971 6100

Yr 5/6 Aviation Activity

woodleigh.vic.edu.au

www.peninsulakids.com.au

59

Recipes

.COM.AU

Your path to feeling great and living your best life

A

re you wondering why everyone is talking about reducing carbohydrates and sugar? Are you curious to learn more about intermittent fasting, keto or paleo and whether it could benefit you in some way?

SO HOW MANY CARBS SHOULD WE EAT*?

There are many factors to take into account when calculating your daily carb level however current research suggests between 20 to 50 grams per day is optimal for most people. The average Australian consumes 300 grams per day with 120g of these carbohydrates coming straight Linda Martinucci has created Simply Swap Foods to share the message from sugar. This equates to a crazy 30 teaspoons of sugar every day, that it really is simple to swap to a better way of eating and live your best often unknowingly through added sugars in processed food. Simply life full of vibrant energy no matter how old you are. removing processed foods from your diet will drastically cut your overall carbohydrate intake and improve your health very quickly.

WHY SWAP FOODS? *Information sourced from ‘Low Carb Down Under’ website www.

When approaching middle age, Linda noticed her weight was increasing lowcarbdownunder.com.au plus energy levels and mental clarity were at an all time low. Frustrated by all the confusing and conflicting health and dietary messages, WEIGHT LOSS + FEELING GREAT = MOTIVATION Linda embarked on a journey to research the latest scientific medical The benefits of going back to eating real food - dropping excess weight, studies around nutrition and health and was amazed at the findings. increased energy and huge improvement in mental clarity - are just some Incorporating her discoveries into everyday life resulted in a remarkable of the reasons why it's easy to stay motivated. Transitioning to a healthier transformation for both Linda and her husband who lost 35kg of excess way of eating for life doesn't have to involve lots of deprivation. weight between them over eight months. They also found that they no JOIN THE SIMPLY SWAP FOODS COMMUNITY longer suffered from afternoon brain fog and had energy levels return Linda is sharing her recipes and information to give help and hope to that they hadn’t felt for decades. anyone looking to improve their eating to feel their best or for health reasons. There are many free recipes on her website and social media THE SECRET TO SUCCESS pages plus Linda has been working hard on a range of recipe ebooks One of the keys to success and staying motivated was continuing to which will be released online soon. For more information, check out the enjoy their traditional favourite meals and desserts. With delicious website www.simplyswapfoods.com.au and follow Simply Swap Foods cakes and desserts still on the menu, there was no reason to seek out the on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates, photos and recipes. unhealthy alternatives. Linda spent time developing lots of recipes that You really can have your cake and feel great too! are low in refined sugar and naturally lower in carbohydrates so your *(As always seek the advised of a qualified health professional before drastically changing your diet) insulin levels remain steady and you don’t feel hungry all the time.

www.hawkesfarm.com.au | 661 Boneo Rd, Boneo | Ph 03 5988 6785 60 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

Farm Gate Open 7 Days

Cheese Waffle

(or Chaffle)

5 PREP

1 LG

2 SML

COOK PREP PREP TOTAL COOK COOK SERVES TOTALTOTALSERVES SERVES

Cheese waffles have become very popular among low-carb communities as they taste so good. There are many variations of this simple recipe involving egg and cheese and I have included my favourite version here. Beautiful for breakfast underneath freshly chopped tomato and basil (drizzled with olive oil) or a poached egg works well also. *Only 3g Net Carbs per serve

Ingredients 1 egg ½ cup grated cheese (tasty or mozzarella work well) 2 Tbsp almond meal ½ tsp baking powder (Cooking spray or extra melted butter to grease waffle maker)

Method

1. Preheat waffle maker.

2. Mix all ingredients together well in a small bowl using a fork.

3. Grease waffle maker well and spread mixture onto hot plate (adjust amount according to size of waffle maker).

4. Close lid and cook until browned and crisp.

5. Remove and serve

Order Online! hawkesfarm.com.au

www.hawkesfarm.com.au | 661 Boneo Rd, Boneo | Ph 03 5988 6785

Farm Gate Open 7 Days www.peninsulakids.com.au

61

Chocolate Cheesecake Mousse

Method

15 PREP

COOK

PREP TOTAL

4 COOK SERVES TOTAL

SERVES

This is super quick to prepare and satisfies any chocolate dessert craving. Serve in a large bowl with strawberries or spoon into individual parfait glasses and top with whipped cream and berries for a sophisticated dessert treat. *Only 7g Net Carbs per serve compared with average 25g Net Carbs for standard version

Ingredients

½ cup pure cream 2 Tbsp natvia sweetener 3 tsp vanilla essence 150g cream cheese, softened 60g dark chocolate, min. 70% cocoa

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

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.

www.hawkesfarm.com.au | 661 Boneo Rd, Boneo | Ph 03 5988 6785 62 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

Farm Gate Open 7 Days

Choc Chip Peanut Cookies

15 PREP

COOK

PREP TOTAL

20 COOK SERVES TOTAL

SERVES

These cookies are quick to make and delicious with a morning or afternoon cuppa. You can enjoy these knowing that you’re looking after your body and not filling up on refined sugar! *Only 4g Net Carbs per serve of 2 cookies compared with 18g Net Carbs for store bought choc chip cookie

Ingredients 1/4 cup butter

1/4 cup peanut butter (or other nut butter)

2 large eggs, room temperature 2 cups almond meal 2 tsp baking powder 1/2 cup choc chips (min. 70% cocoa) 2/3 cup natvia (or similar granulated sweetener)

Method

Preheat oven to 170 degrees celsius (fan-forced) and line baking trays with greaseproof paper.

1. Place butter and peanut butter in heatproof bowl and microwave on high for 30 seconds or until melted.

2. Stir butters together then add eggs and whisk together until combined.

3. In a medium bowl, add all dry ingredients and mix until well combined.

4. Add wet mix to dry ingredients and stir together well to form a dough.

5. Roll tablespoons of mixture into balls and place on lined trays.

6. Flatten down with fork or palm of hand; cookies won’t spread much.

7. Bake for 15-18 minutess or until golden brown.

8. Allow to cool on tray for 10 minutes before transferring to wire rack to cool completely. Cookies will be soft when warm and firm up as they cool down.

Order Online! hawkesfarm.com.au

www.hawkesfarm.com.au | 661 Boneo Rd, Boneo | Ph 03 5988 6785

Farm Gate Open 7 Days www.peninsulakids.com.au

63

San Choy Bau

1kg cabbage/wombok, finely sliced 1/3 cup tamari

2 tsp turmeric powder 1kg pork mince 1/3 cup soy sauce

6 drops sesame oil Salt Iceberg lettuce cups/chopped mixed lettuce and avocado (for serving) Shortening of preference for frying – butter, coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, ghee, lard 30 PREP

COOK

PREP TOTAL

8 COOK SERVES TOTAL

SERVES

This is so easy to make and freezes perfectly for future meals.

Pack in lunch size and dinner size portions so you can grab on the run. I use a food processor to chop the cabbage and celery, super quick and less mess that way. *Only 9g Net Carbs per serve

Method

1. Heat large saucepan and use preferred shortening to fry onion until soft. Add garlic, ginger and turmeric to pan and stir-fry for 1 minute.

2. Add pork to pan and keep turning to cook completely. Use a potato masher to break up any large lumps if needed.

Ingredients

1 medium brown onion, chopped (approx. 80g)

3. Once pork is cooked, add cabbage, greens, tamari, soy and sesame oil. Mix all ingredients well and keep cooking until cabbage and celery have softened.

3 cloves garlic, crushed

4. Taste for seasoning and add salt if required.

2cm knob fresh ginger, grated (approx. 20g)

5. Prepare serving plates with either iceberg lettuce cups or a bed of chopped mixed leaves. Spoon mixture on top of lettuce and top with some mashed avocado.

3-4 cups Asian greens, finely chopped (eg. bok choy/pak choy, approx. 300g)

www.hawkesfarm.com.au | 661 Boneo Rd, Boneo | Ph 03 5988 6785 64 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

Farm Gate Open 7 Days

Wholesome Flax Waffles

10 PREP

2 LG

4 SML

COOK PREP PREP TOTAL COOK COOK SERVES TOTALTOTALSERVES SERVES

This healthy waffle mix has a big hit of fibre and omega 3 from the flaxmeal. Delicious when topped with mixed berries and sweetened whipped cream/coconut cream plus a drizzle of melted dark chocolate makes this an extra indulgent treat. Waffles keep in the fridge for 3 days and freeze well up to 2 months when stored in airtight container. *Zero Net Carbs compared with 23g Net Carbs for standard waffles

Ingredients ½ cup flaxmeal

1 tsp baking powder

Method

1. Preheat waffle maker.

2. Place all dry ingredients in a medium bowl then whisk through remaining wet ingredients.

1 Tbsp natvia sweetener

3. Grease waffle maker well with and ladle mixture onto hot plate (adjust amount according to size of waffle maker).

2 eggs

4. Close lid and cook until browned and crisp.

2 Tbsp butter, melted

5. Remove and repeat with remaining batter until all waffles are cooked.

2 tsp cinnamon

2 tsp vanilla essence (Cooking spray or extra melted butter to grease waffle maker)

6. Serve waffles topped with whipped cream/coconut cream, warmed berries and a drizzle of melted dark chocolate.

Order Online! hawkesfarm.com.au

www.hawkesfarm.com.au | 661 Boneo Rd, Boneo | Ph 03 5988 6785

Farm Gate Open 7 Days www.peninsulakids.com.au

65

Health

66 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

By Karina Savage

E

very single day our children’s little bodies are achieving phenomenal things. Their bones and muscles are growing, their brains are developing and their bodies are being constantly bombarded with all sorts of bugs (good and bad).

Their immune systems are protecting them – from both inside and out. On the outside, their skin is their biggest barrier to bugs, but up to 70% of their immune system is found on the inside in the incredible organism we call the gut. The gut is where communities of bacteria live, otherwise known as our “gut microbiome”.

We need these communities of bugs to be in good balance for a healthy robust immune system.

In our busy lives as parents, I believe we sometimes forget about the effect of our children’s gut health on their everyday lives. Research tells us that a child’s gut health can influence their mood, their energy levels and of course their immunity.

The most important thing you can do from a dietary perspective is to feed your child with plenty of plant foods. Plant foods are nutrient rich, immune boosting powerhouses, naturally containing fibre - otherwise known as prebiotics. Prebiotics are the food (or fuel) for our gut bugs and promote the growth of good bacteria whilst at the same time nourishing our gut cells. You really can’t underestimate the importance of this.

Top tips for Improving your child’s gut health: Offer your children plenty of different coloured vegetables and cook with onion and garlic.

Give them fruit and veg with the skin on where possible as there are nutrients inside and just under the skin (such as in an apple).

eds – use Increase nuts and se al/LSA me nut butters, almond nuts in d pe in baking or chop lads sa on muffins, sprinkled ch as su als or added to hot me . es rri cu stir-fries and ol. ho sc **no nuts at

Use legumes (whole, dried or mashed) in sauces, mashed into dishes or dried as a snack – e.g. dried chick peas or fav-va beans.

Use wholegrain options for breads k and cereals – chec s ain gr ole for the % wh t lis nts die in the ingre and aim as high as possible!

probiotics yoghurt that contain Including foods like lance ba intain the correct - this can help to ma in turn ich gs in the gut, wh of good and bag bu ghurts Yo s. es and reduces sickn improves immunity cause be t ea st and Kids are gr and like the Vaalia My Fir um lci ca ique probiotics, they contain three un vitamin B12.

Every little bit helps, so try to include these foods both at snack and meal times to maximise their intake of goodness! Good gut health = healthy children = happy parents!

Karina Savage is a paediatric gut health dietitian from Smartbite Nutrition. www.smartbite.com.au www.vaalia.com.au/kids-products

www.peninsulakids.com.au

67

68 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

LUCAS

As of 2002, food manufacturers do not have to declare food additives on the information panel of a food product if the quantity is below *5% Meaning, if an additive is 4.99%, consumers will not know that they are consuming potentially poisonous ingredients.

Food additives are used to make products look fresher, last longer and taste sweeter, but this comes at the expense of our health. Additives are particularly harmful TO children, causing significant behavioural issues and they interfere with growth and development.

Educator, Christine Thompson-Wells is raising awareness of the hidden poison within manufactured foods through her recently launched book ‘Devils In Our Food’. Throughout her book Christine highlights the ways in which everyday food products can impact the behaviour of children.

DENTAL CARE AL I ST

H

ave you ever noticed a dramatic shift in your child’s behaviour after they consumes processed food? Hidden, poisonous additives are often to blame.

TRIC DENTIST A I S ED A P

SPECI

By Christine Thompson-Wells

continued next page...

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

69

• 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

For example, when children consume highly processed, sugary-based foods it creates a hormone rush. This hormone rush allows the hormone dopamine to be released, which interferes with the working of the synapse and neurotransmitters in a child’s brain. Dopamine is a demand hormone, meaning the more the brain has, the more the brain wants.

As a sugar rush hits the child’s system, the demand for sweeter foods can become more intense, making the child unsettled and tempered. Extreme behaviour patterns not normally exhibited may also become evident, such as ADHD or ADD. This is because the child’s body and brain are in a state of stress as a result of being fed poisonous additives. Later, when the sugar rush begins to wear off, a child’s behaviour may change again as they start to become irritable, unhappy and naughty.

‘Devils In Our Food’ reader Katrina Kirk says, “This book has been a massive game changer to our family. Having family members who suffer from ADHD and food intolerance to certain additives, this book has opened my world to understand the reasoning behind why they respond to such additives through knowing the makeup of each. The book has now allowed me to work with them and to educate them on the reasoning behind their ups and downs and mood swings.”

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 70 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

Author Christine says, “It is important to understand the link between poor behaviour and the food we give our children. Popular everyday food products are full of hidden additives that can cause significant health problems such as headaches, skin irritation, neurological disorders, birth defects, behavioural problems and some cancers.”

Christine shares four common children’s food products and healthier alternatives they should be swapped with:

1. Swap breakfast cereals for organic oats “Aspartame, Nutrasweet and Equal (951) are flavour enhancing additives that are often found in popular breakfast cereals. Aspartame is linked to many health problems including dizziness, speech problems and neurological disorders. Organic oats with fresh fruit topped with blueberries and honey is a great alternative that won’t leave children bouncing off the walls.“

HEALTHY LUNCHBOX SWAPS TO KEEP KIDS ENERGIZED

By luxey.com

2. Swap soft drinks for freshly squeezed juice “Dimethyl Dicarbonate (242) is a dangerous yeast inhibitor which can be found in carbonated and noncarbonated drinks such as children’s soft drinks. If inhaled it can cause breathing difficulties and irritation to the nose, throat and respiratory tract. Freshly squeezed juice is a much healthier alternative and provides some fun for kids in the kitchen.”

3. S wap pre-made baby foods for mashed organic vegetables “Starch Acetate (1420) is an additive that can be used in baby foods.

It is linked to high cholesterol, pathological changes in the lungs and stomach disorders. Mashed organic vegetables are high in vitamins and minerals to strengthen your child’s immune system, without the added sugar and preservatives.”

4. S wap sugary spreads for honey as a natural sweetener “Acesulphame potassium (950) is often found in popular food spreads and is at least 200 times sweeter than sugar. It is used in food to stimulate the pleasure centre of the brain, which creates problematic behaviours in children. Parents should opt for honey as a natural source of sweetness.” * www.foodstandards.gov.au/Pages/default.aspx

Professional Educator and Author, Christine Thompson-Wells aims to raise awareness of the poison within manufactured food products that are deemed healthy. Her book is accompanied by a handbook and an app which highlights the information about the additives for ease of use when shopping.

We have a copy of Christine’s book ‘Devils in Our Food’ to give away. Please go to peninsulakids.com.au/giveaways to enter.

The unpredictable nature of our daily lives means that preparing and packing a healthy lunchbox can be a challenging task. Preparing healthy lunches and snacks are important for active children as the food we send our kids to school with can contribute up to 1/3 of their daily intake of nutrients.

Consider these lunchbox swaps to give your child a happy, healthier and more sustainable 2020.

JUICE BOX TO REUSABLE KEEP CUPS.

Not only do Juice Boxes expose young teeth to high amounts of sugar and acid causing cavities, but the take years to decompose. Make the switch in your child’s lunchbox to a reusable, eco-friendly keep cup such as Luxey Cup- each are designed with fun colours and in different sizes.

SWAP ‘FRUIT’ ROLL-UPS OR FRUIT STRAPS TO FRESH FRUIT.

‘Fruit’ roll-ups and straps are one of the most common additions to any child’s lunchbox. However, they are often full of sugar and other nasties. Replace this with fresh fruit as a healthy source of sugar such as apples, grapes, strawberries or a banana.

CHOOSE LIGHTER SNACK OPTIONS.

It is a common mistake for parents to fill their children’s lunchboxes up with high calorie snacks. Natural popcorn and raw cut-up vegetables are filled with natural vitamins and minerals to help them refuel throughout the day.

Fruit flavoured yoghurt for natural yoghurt with a sprinkling of honey.

Kick dessert and fruit-flavoured yoghurts to the kerb. Why not try swapping some mild tasting natural yoghurt and sweeten with a teaspoon or two of honey or mix in some sundried sultanas?

Swap white with wholemeal or multi-grain.

Wholemeal or multi-grain provide a greater amount of nutrients and health benefits, allowing kids to feel energised and clear-minded and will prevent the afternoon-slump

www.peninsulakids.com.au

71

By Sherrie Miller

E

czema, or Atopic Dermatitis, is a common chronic skin condition amongst children. In fact, it affects approximately 20% of children and the numbers continue to rise.

Eczema is generally characterised by itchy, red, inflamed skin. It can present itself as a patchy raised red rash, and in some cases, splitting and weeping skin. Eczema is often seen on the face, backs of the knees, hands or the folds of the skin. In many cases, children who have eczema are more likely to have asthma and other allergies. Eczema flare-ups often happen in winter due to the dry, cold air and indoor heating systems that can dry out the skin.

Popular treatments of eczema are usually topical with cortisone creams, or by taking antihistamines, oral steroids or immune-suppressant medications. Bleach baths are also often recommended. The types of clothing a child may wear, temperature fluctuations, and what detergent clothes are washed in, may also cause eczema flare-ups.

ARTIFICIAL ADDITIVES Artificial additives such as colours, flavours and preservatives are common eczema triggers. Avoiding these additives for general good health is recommended whether eczema is a problem or not.

Read food labels to determine triggers. MSG and other flavour enhancers should also be avoided.

Eczema is considered a systemic condition and so treatment should You can download a phone app to research artificial additives in be looked at from a systemic viewpoint. Serum IgE (Immunoglobulin foods by simply entering the number code you see in the ingredients E) antibodies are usually high in many eczema cases which list and the app will provide you information on the potential harm. suggests the immune system is reacting to substances within the body.

DIGESTIVE ISSUES We know that skin barrier dysfunction is the main concern for Gut health is an area of medical research that is gaining huge eczema sufferers, often looking at environmental factors but other momentum and there is so much more yet to discover in this interesting areas to investigate include stress, food intolerances, digestive issues, area of medicine. When we talk of the gut, we are referring to gut dysfunction and nutritional deficiencies. the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The GI tract consists of the mouth, FOOD INTOLERANCES oesophagus, stomach, large intestine, small intestine and anus. The Food intolerances can include common allergens such as gluten, liver, pancreas and gall bladder are the other organs that make up part of the whole digestive system. Residing within the gastrointestinal dairy and eggs. However, naturally occurring food compounds such as salicylates, amines and glutamates can also be triggers. tract is an army of bacteria and pathogens collectively known as the microbiome which play an influential part in many biochemical Writing a food diary and monitoring flare-ups may assist in finding functions within the body. the potential cause of eczema.

Undergoing an elimination challenge test is another way to determine Digestive issues can include constipation, diarrhea, bloating potential eczema triggers. Start with the elimination of suspected and reflux. More chronic complex cases include Irritable Bowel food allergens. Do this for 2-4 weeks to see if eczema symptoms Syndrome, Crohn’s Disease and Diverticulitis. clear up. If this elimination shows improvement in the skins condition Healthy digestion is important to extract the nutrients from the food we eat to allow our body to function optimally. This process then do a challenge test by adding the food back into the diet, one at a time, and monitor any reactions. If a reaction should occur, this of digestion also includes eliminating wastes from our body. When our diet is unhealthy or digestion is not functioning properly, this could indicate which food may be an eczema trigger.

If you are a breastfeeding mum with a baby suffering with eczema, can cause inflammatory conditions. If the inflammation becomes then you should also do an elimination challenge test with your own chronic, it may cause intestinal permeability, commonly referred to diet. Food intolerances can come through a mother’s breast milk and as leaky gut. When leaky gut occurs, unwanted pathogens, food particles, proteins and toxins may leak into the blood stream, striking affect the child’s skin condition. an immune response. This immune response can irritate and inflame It’s best to be guided by a nutritional health care professional when different parts of the body, which may include the skin. Addressing doing a diet elimination challenge test. digestive issues is a key component in managing eczema.

72 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

PROBIOTICS Research is showing positive outcomes with the use of specific strains of probiotics for eczema treatment with Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium lactis and Lactobacillus acidophilus indicating the best results. Mothers taking probiotics from two months before delivery and during the first two months of breast feeding also showed reduction in eczema development for high-risk infants. More research is to be done, but for now it appears that high doses of Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium lactis and Lactobacillus acidophilus probiotics in single or multi-strain formulations currently hold the most promise for prevention and treatment of eczema in children.

SKIN NUTRIENTS There are many powerhouse micro and macro nutrients that are crucial for healthy skin.

Vitamin A plays an important role in skin repair and reducing inflammation. Not getting enough Vitamin A in the diet has been shown to contribute to inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema.

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect skin from free radical damage improving skin barrier function. Vitamin E can be used through diet and topically to assist in the healing and prevention of eczema.

Vitamin D deficiency may be a contributor to eczema. Vitamin D is required for skin synthesis, metabolism and activity. It regulates many physiological processes in the skin ranging from cellular proliferation to barrier maintenance and immune function.

Zinc is an important nutrient for immunity, helping the body fight infection.

Zinc also assists in skin cell growth and healing wounds.

Omega 3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory assisting the body in reducing inflammatory proteins and immunoglobulin E (IgE). Omega 3’s may also improve skin barrier function, seal in moisture and keep out irritants.

Quercetin is a bioflavonoid found in certain fruits and vegetables as well as green tea. It has both antioxidant and antihistamine properties.

Quercetin inhibits the secretion of histamine and inflammatory markers and with this has been shown to decrease eczema symptoms.

Healthy skin is an inside job. It’s not a one size fits all approach but definitely worth exploring. Seek a nutritional health professional to address these underlying issues in treating eczema.

Sherrie Miller is a qualified nutritionist with a special interest in nutritional skin care.

Skin disorders such as eczema, acne or excessively dry skin are usually indicative of something else going on deep within. Following a plan that addresses gut health issues, liver function and nutritional deficiencies may bring some relief to those challenging skin disorders. Learn more by emailing nutrishskin@gmail.com www.peninsulakids.com.au

73

Ask The

Experts!

Why is it that some kids have two lots of orthodontic treatment and others can just wait and have one treatment when they are teenagers?

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 74 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

Orthodontic treatment is often referred to in different phases; (Phase I and Phase II) and the objectives of each stage of treatment are quite different.

Phase I or early interceptive treatment is undertaken before all the permanent teeth erupt, usually between ages 6 and 11, and aims to assist or facilitate natural growth and permanent tooth eruption, help correct abnormal growth patterns, create/regain space for permanent teeth, reduce the potential for dental trauma to occur, prevent excessive tooth wear and improve the predictability of Phase II treatment. An ‘early’ phase of treatment is often not necessary; your orthodontist will advise and discuss with you the need for early orthodontic treatment for your child where indicated.

Phase II treatment aims to position all the permanent teeth in a way that optimises their appearance and function and this phase of treatment usually involves the use of fixed appliances (braces) or clear aligners.

Each patient is different and it is therefore recommended that you seek the opinion of a specialist orthodontist when your child is around 8 years old to see which approach is most suitable for them.

Sallie Thomas BSc. Dip OHT (Melb) Dental Hygienist Peninsula Orthodontics 134 Tanti Avenue Mornington

I am trying for my second baby, but my blood tests show that I am not ovulating. Any tips on how I might try to get things going again?

Have a chat with your GP or gynaecologist about whether you have any obvious risk factors for ovulation problems that can be addressed or assessed further. Aim to improve your health as much as possible with a good balanced diet, exercise, stress reduction and weight optimisation. Some prefer to explore complementary therapies such as acupuncture, which is one of the more popular options. If these are not helping, medical treatments include clomiphene or metformin which are relatively straightforward (clomiphene is superior) through to more formal ovulation induction coordinated by a fertility specialist. When drugs are used, there is a higher risk of multiple pregnancy (twins or more) so these treatments need to be supervised.

A gynaecologist can assist with your decision making.

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

Dr Jolyon Ford Obstetrician and author of Pregnancy Wellbeing Insta: @pregnancywellbeing and Pregnancy Wellbeing on Facebook

Capture that perfect smile you will always treasure.

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 www.peninsulakids.com.au

75

Pregnancy & Baby

G R A N N Y ’S G U I D E TO

BABY-LED

Weaning

By Yvette O’Dowd

I

f your image of starting babies on solids involves sloppy rice cereal, strained pears and pureed vegetables, then baby-led weaning might come as a bit of a shock!

In the past, babies were introduced to solids much earlier than they are today – even as early as a few weeks of age. For babies aged 2-4 months, the only way for them to safely ingest solid foods without choking was to puree them finely – in fact, liquefy them. Boiling or steaming fruits, then vegetables - in strict order – then pureeing them by forcing them through a sieve and mixing with a little boiled water, before spooning the sloppy mix into the gaping mouth of a reclined infant was tedious and time-consuming after the novelty wore off. Not surprisingly, mothers were drawn to the little jars, cans and packets of prepared foods which began to fill the supermarkets after World War ll and being able to afford commercial baby foods quickly became a status symbol in the mid- 20th century.

By the 80s and 90s, the recommended age became 4-6 months, but babies were still not able to chew and swallow foods without pureeing and mashing. Mothers who were into natural health returned to preparing fresh produce, often pureeing with a Mouli sieve and, increasingly, using blenders and food processors to render food suitable to swallow. A strict timeline evolved to begin with rice cereal, mixed with breastmilk, formula or boiled water, moving on to pureed fruits, vegetables, meats and grains, then later those foods mashed and finally - finger foods were introduced around 7-8 months of age.

But a revolution was quietly brewing. The importance of breastmilk gained recognition and in 2002 the World Health Organisation produced guidelines that babies be exclusively breastfed – with no other milks, drinks or foods – for the first half-year. Health authorities around the world followed suit and solids were now recommended from around six months.

In the UK, Health Visitor (Maternal and Child Health Nurse equivalent) Gil Rapley was questioning the need to bother with all that pureeing, if babies were not starting to eat until after the need for it had passed.

At six months, babies are able to sit upright, lose their natural tongue thrust reflex and develop the hand-eye coordination which allows them to bring objects to their own mouth. They are capable of biting and chewing – regardless of the presence or lack of teeth – their gagging reflex is effective in preventing choking and they are developmentally ready to eat solid food in its solid form.

Rapley’s book Baby-Led Weaning, co-authored by Tracey Murkett was published in 2008 and is still the definitive text on the subject. It explains why it makes absolute sense to introduce babies to solid foods this way. It's full of tips for how to use BLW with your baby - and what to expect when you do.

So – what exactly IS baby-led weaning? Well – firstly, you need to understand the use of the word “weaning” in its British meaning: it refers to starting solid foods, not ending milk feeds.

A four-month old baby will begin showing interest in people eating, not because he is ready to join in, but so he can learn the process. He will study how you move your hand from plate to mouth and try to copy you.

76 76 Peninsula PeninsulaKids Kids––Autumn Winter 2020 2020

He will grab at food, cutlery, plates and makes chewing movements and even drools! Sit him on your lap and let him learn, but don’t mistake these signs as him needing food – he isn’t ready yet.

Being physically ready to eat food is very important. All three signs of readiness need to be in place before you begin.

YOUR BABY IS READY TO EAT WHEN:

He can sit upright in his high-chair unsupported  He can bring his hand to his mouth when playing  He has can swallow food because the tongue reflex is now gone  It isn’t about age since birth but about physical development. If your baby hits these milestones earlier – or later – than the average six months, adjust as needed. There is no rush. Around six months allows for a few weeks either side.

Offer foods your baby can grab hold of easily – “food with handles” like strips of cooked steak or roast meat; broccoli, carrot and other vegies cut into sticks long enough to hold in his hand, thick pieces of fruit with the skin left on. Whatever you prepare for dinner can be adapted for baby – there is no need to cook separate meals. His hands can soon pick up pieces of pasta, clumps of rice, bits of chicken or fish, baked beans and other legumes … the only foods off the menu are honey and whole nuts.

Nut butter spread on toast or dolloped on his tray will help his protein intake and provide essential fats.

Between 6-12 months, milk – either breastmilk or infant formula – is still the primary food source and solids should not yet take over. By letting him control what he eats and how much, you can avoid over-feeding him.

“Food before one is just for fun!” Let him play with his food and experience how it feels and tastes. He will pick it up, drop it, dip it, squish it, lick it and learn how far to put it in his mouth. He is not likely to choke because his natural gag reflex will kick in if food goes too far back – gagging is not choking – and he will probably pop the food back into his hand, look at it and put it back in again! First aid training will teach you what to do if he chokes at any age. Sitting with your focus on him while he eats (not your phone!) is important.

Sharing the experience of food and eating with your baby is a wonderful way to introduce eating. Baby-led weaning frees you from boring purees and mash and allows you to share meals with your little one.

Yvette O’Dowd is not your typical grandmother! This mother of three and Granny of two has been a breastfeeding counsellor for more than 25 years. In 2014, Yvette established the Southern Natural Parenting Network, incorporating South Eastern Babywearing Group. With 8000 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. Yvette has lived in Frankston for 45 years. www.facebook.com/SouthernNaturalParentingNetwork

EXHIBITION Bring the kids in to see MPRG: FIFTY, celebrating 50 years of MPRG’s collection.

CREATIVE ACTIVITIES Visit our website for a series of creative activities with artist/ educator Jill Anderson and animator Jerome Rush, including create a paper mache bowl, observational collage, make a crazy crocodile hand puppet or a 3-legged stick sculpture.

Free activities for ages 2-12 and teens. eX de Medici, Red (Colony) 2000 (detail), watercolour on paper, Winner of National Works on Paper, purchased by Beleura - The Tallis Foundation, 2002

Visit mprg.mornpen.vic.gov.au/learn Civic Reserve, Dunns Rd, Mornington ph 5950 1580

www.peninsulakids.com.au

77

I

f you and your baby are released early from hospital, when you get home you are bound to be excited, but also tired, overwhelmed and probably wondering ‘what do I do now?'

The reality of bringing a baby home from the hospital or birth centre, especially if you are first-time parents, can be an overwhelming experience. You have probably done your best to prepare for life with a newborn – going to antenatal classes and setting up the nursery, for example – but nothing can really prepare you for what it’s actually like when you first get home.

SURVIVING WITHOUT ROUND-THE-CLOCK CARE Many women usually spend a couple of days in hospital where the midwives and hospital staff can help you with feeding, settling, bathing and nappy changing. This also gives you a chance to get some sleep to help in your recovery.

But if you are discharged early from the hospital – in some cases on the same day you have your baby – you will find yourself at home having to do all these things by yourselves.

If you have a partner, make sure you rely on and support each other as much as possible. Mum will need some time to recover from giving birth, and will be sore and tired. Partners can help out as much as possible by doing nappy changes and preparing meals.

AT-HOME VISITS Before you leave the hospital, your midwife may organise a time to come and visit you at home to check on how you and your baby are going. You will also have your first appointment with your local child health nurse at home after about a week. They will also check on the health and wellbeing of you and your baby and you should use this time to ask lots of questions.

LOOKING AFTER YOURSELF As hard as it may sound, you need to make sure to look after your own health and mental wellbeing when you get home from the hospital with your baby. Getting some sleep, eating healthily and, when you are ready, doing some gentle exercise, will all help your body and mind recover from giving birth.

The best time for you to try to catch up on sleep is when your baby is sleeping. Ask your partner, a close family member or a friend to look after your baby for a couple of hours if you need a break or some rest.

Some parents prepare and freeze a few meals in advance before the baby is due, so you have some quick meals ready to go – or ask a friend to make some freezer-friendly meals for you.

Don’t worry if the house is a mess! It’s best in the first few days that you limit the amount of family and friends that come over to meet the new addition to the family.

If you don’t have a partner, ask a close relative or friend to spend a few days with you to help out while you find your feet.

Your baby will also be adapting to their new environment and this is sometimes referred to as the ‘fourth trimester‘. Remember that you and your baby are in this together and will learn along the way.

Your baby will eventually start to develop a routine. Newborn babies mostly sleep, eat, cry and poo and you’ll probably soon learn the difference between an “I’m hungry” cry and “I need my nappy changed” cry.

78 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

Pregnancy, Birth and Baby is a trusted government service that is providing answers for mums in this time of uncertainty. The service has a dedicated online COVID-19 hub, (www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/covid-19-information-forpregnancy-and-parents), that has received 85,000 visits in its first month after going live. The website has also seen a spike in people looking for information on home births, with traffic to these pages rising by as much as 200 per cent compared to this time last year. www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au

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79

You’ll Need

Magazine cut-outs Scissors Print out of a letter from alphabet (words, letters, images) Glue sticks Coloured construction paper

How to do it:

1. Get busy flipping the pages of a magazine 2. Print out your initial on normal, white and cut out anything that makes you printer paper. (We used Eras Bold ITC happy. Don’t worry about precision. because of its thick lettering.)

Be sure to cut out various sizes.

4. When the entire letter is covered by cutouts flip the paper over and cut along the outline of the letter.

80 80 Peninsula PeninsulaKids Kids––Winter Winter2020 2020

3. Glue the cut outs on you letter, just going past the outline. Overlap images a bit to ensure total coverage of the space.

We don’t want any white gaps!

5. Choose a background construction 6. If you like, put your masterpiece into a paper colour and glue your letter down frame, or place it in prime position on in the middle of the page. Be sure to get the fridge for all to see! the glue all the way to the edges of the Look at your awesomeness! back of the letter so it doesn’t lift.

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82 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020

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84 Peninsula Kids – Winter 2020