LETTER FROM THE EDITORS
Dear Red Frog for Families Community,
We are thrilled to introduce the very first edition of Red Frog for Families Magazine! This publication has been a dream of ours, put together with love and care, and we are so happy to share it with you. We want this magazine to be yours as much as ours and we want to hear your thoughts and ideas—your feedback will help shape our future editions as we continue to grow together.
As we embrace the summer sun, with its longer days and warmer nights, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the year that was and prepare for the holiday season ahead. For many families, especially those raising children with disabilities, summer can be both a time of joy and challenge. Whether it’s finding inclusive activities to keep the kids entertained or managing sensory overload during bustling holiday events, summer often means balancing the desire for fun with the need for routine and calm.
At Red Frog for Families, we understand these challenges firsthand. That’s why we’ve filled this Summer Edition with practical tips, heartfelt stories, and a few expert strategies to help you navigate the season with confidence and ease. From delicious recipes to creating fun and interactive play-based activities at home. We are here to support you every step of the way.
As we reflect on the year that was, it’s impossible not to feel grateful for the incredible community we’ve built. 2024 has been a year of growth and connection for Red Frog for Families, with new families joining us and familiar faces continuing to inspire and uplift one another. We’ve witnessed moments of courage, resilience, and joy that remind us of all of the importance of care, connection, and empowerment— values that remain at the heart of everything we do.
As we head into the holiday season, we want to take a moment to thank you. Whether you’ve attended our events, shared your story, or simply found comfort in our community, you’ve made a difference. It’s your involvement that allows Red Frog for Families to thrive, and for that, we are deeply appreciative.
From all of us at Red Frog for Families, we wish you a holiday season filled with love, laughter, and rest. May your summer be bright, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you in 2025 and beyond.
Warmest wishes,
Rochelle & David Appleby Editors, Red Frog for Families Magazine
SUMMER FEATURES:
ACTIVITIES TO DO AT HOME OVER SUMMER:
Summer is the perfect time to engage children with fun and enriching activities that make the most of nature, sensory play, and physical development. Here are some amazing ideas to try at home:
NATURE-BASED ACTIVITIES
Nature is not only beautiful, but it’s also incredibly beneficial for children! Spending time in nature can improve physical health, mental health, cognitive function, social skills, and environmental awareness.
Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and playing in natural settings can improve gross motor skills, strength, motor planning, and reduce stress and anxiety.
Studies have shown that spending time in nature can improve attention, focus, creativity, and problem-solving skills, and enhance overall cognitive development.
Nature also provides opportunities for children to interact with others in a natural setting, promoting social skills, such as communication, cooperation, and teamwork.
And, perhaps, spending time in nature can help children develop an appreciation for the environment and an understanding of the importance of conservation and sustainability.
Here are some activities we can do to get our kiddos out in nature:
1. Nature Scavenger Hunt
• What You Need: A printed checklist or notebook, pencil, and a small bag to collect treasures.
• How to: Create a list of items for your child to find, such as a smooth rock, a yellow flower, or a bird feather. Explore your backyard or local park to find them.
• Great for: Following directions, literacy skills, visual perception.
2. Create Nature Art
• What You Need: Leaves, sticks, flowers, rocks, paper, glue, and markers.
• How to: Collect natural materials and use them to make collages, mandalas, or painted rock creatures.
• Great for: Creativity and ideation, fine motor skills, collaboration.
3. Campfire Cooking
• What You Need: A safe outdoor space, a fire pit or BBQ grill, marshmallows, skewers, and simple meal ingredients (like bread dough or foil-wrapped veggies).
• How to: Teach kids to safely cook over a campfire or grill. Bonus points for creating a backyard camping experience!
• Great for: Following directions, sequencing, safety awareness, skill building, daily living skills.
4. Mud Kitchen
• What You Need: Old pots, pans, spoons, water, dirt, and a small outdoor area.
• How to: Set up a “kitchen” where kids can mix mud, water, and natural materials to “cook.” It’s messy fun with lots of sensory benefits.
• Great for: Sensory processing and exploration, imaginative and symbolic play, social communication skills.
5. Bird and Insect Spotting
• What You Need: Binoculars, a notebook for recording observations, and an insect identification guide.
• How to: Binoculars, a notebook for recording observations, and an insect identification guide.
• Great for: Visual perception, following directions, receptive language concepts.
SENSORY PLAY ACTIVITIES
As a parent, you’re probably always on the lookout for ways to engage your child’s curious mind and foster their development. One fantastic avenue for exploration and growth is through sensory activities right in the comfort of your own home. These activities not only provide entertainment but also stimulate your child’s senses, encouraging creativity, cognitive development, and overall well-being. Here are some sensory adventures you can take your little one on:
Sensory Play Activities:
1.
DIY Sensory Bin
• What You Need: Plastic bin, rice, pasta, sand, small toys, scoops, and cups.
• How to: Fill a bin with sensory materials and let your child explore by scooping, sorting, and playing.
2. Mess-Free Painting
• What You Need: Ziploc bags, paint, tape.
• How to: Squeeze paint into a bag, seal it, and let kids swirl the colours around to create art without any mess.
3. Homemade Playdough
• What You Need: Flour, salt, water, food colouring, and optional glitter or essential oils.
• How to: Mix ingredients to make soft playdough, and let kids knead and shape it.
• Change it up: Ask your child to make the playdough with you! Support the understanding of measuring, reading (if appropriate), sequencing and engagement.
4. Obstacle Course
• What You Need: Pillows, chairs, tunnels, ropes, and other household items.
• How to: Set up a course indoors or outdoors for kids to crawl, climb, and jump through.
• Change it up: Putting on a blindfold and getting your child to lead you through the obstacle course to work on expressive language. Get them to carry something through to obstacle course to make it harder.
5. Sensory Walk
• What You Need: Just your surroundings!
• How to: Walk around your neighbourhood or backyard, focusing on different textures, smells, and sounds.
• Change it up: Take photos of your child on the sensory walk and see if they can provide a recount of your activity for the day.
6. Outdoor Sensory Garden
• What You Need: Pots, soil, seeds, and gardening tools.
• How to: Plant flowers and herbs with various textures and scents. Encourage your child to touch and smell them.
ONLINE FUN FOR HOT DAYS OR RAINY DAYS
1. Just Dance Videos
• What You Need: A TV or device to play videos.
• How to: Dance along to fun routines to burn energy indoors.
2. Skribbl.io - https://skribbl.io/
• What You Need: A computer or tablet.
• How to: Play this multiplayer drawing and guessing game to foster creativity.
3. Paper.io Games - https://paper-3.io/
• What You Need: A device with internet access.
• How to: Challenge kids to strategic games that build problem-solving skills.
7. Sensory Scavenger Hunt
• What You Need: A checklist of sensory items (e.g., soft leaf, rough bark, sweet smell).
• How to: Hunt for items that match the sensory descriptions.
RIBBIT REVIEW
We want to hear from you, we are looking to feature some of your family’s favourite books, movies, and games! Whether it has inspired you, taken you and the family on a new adventure, helped you understand something better or is just all-around good fun we want to know about it! Keen to be featured get in touch and please email: magazine@rf4f.com.au! Here are a few of our favourites just to get you started…
Board Games and Books we Love!
GNOMES AT NIGHT
Gather your friends and dive into the enchanting world of Gnomes at Night! This cooperative board game is not just about solving puzzles; it’s about teamwork, trust, and a healthy dose of friendly competition. The goal? To help the gnomes recover their lost treasures before time runs out.
Why we love it:
This game is a therapist favourite for targeting language development. Here’s why:
• It enhances receptive language (understanding instructions) and expressive language (conveying ideas).
• It’s verbal communication-only, fostering vocabulary growth.
• It builds teamwork and trust, vital skills for both therapy sessions and life.
Perfect for group play or one-on-one sessions, Gnomes at Night brings out the best in collaborative problem-solving and communication!
DIFFERENT, NOT LESS
BY CHLOE HAYDEN
“Different, not less” is more than a phrase—it’s a lifechanging message, beautifully captured in Chloe Hayden’s inspiring book. As an actor, motivational speaker, and disability advocate, Chloe shares her personal journey of self-discovery and learning to embrace her unique identity.
Why we love it:
• It’s a beacon of hope for anyone feeling out of place or misunderstood.
• Chloe’s story encourages us to celebrate neurodiversity and see the value in differences.
• The book is relatable, empowering, and filled with practical advice for self-love and advocacy.
This book is a must-read for families, educators, and anyone looking to broaden their understanding of autism and inclusion.
TACO CAT GOAT CHEESE PIZZA
Who says learning can’t be a laughing matter? Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is the ultimate card game for family fun, full of silly action and fast-paced excitement. Gather your players, flip your cards, and try not to burst into giggles!
Why we love it:
• It’s adaptable: speed it up for high-energy fun or slow it down for younger players.
• Simple rules mean it’s easy to learn, with both verbal and written cues to help.
• It’s portable and perfect for any setting.
Skills it builds:
• Hand-eye coordination
• Attention and focus
• Impulse control
• Language development
• Sequencing and working memory
• Social skills.
Want more fun? Try out additional rule variations to keep it fresh and challenging. This game is a win-win for laughter and learning!
WHO LET THE FROGS OUT: ACCESSIBLE BEACH ADVENTURES
IN NEWCASTLE
Each month will get out and about and explore some of the best things our city and surrounds have to offer! This month we will focus on our amazing beaches, and we have sent our very own Alex Appleby out to select his top 4! Newcastle is the home to some of the most stunning beaches in Australia, but what sets it apart for families, especially those with children and adults with disabilities, is its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. So, let’s dive into Alex’s Top 4:
1. CAVES BEACH: NATURE MEETS EXPLORATION
Caves Beach, aptly named for its fascinating sea caves, offers a unique and adventurous experience. Here’s why it shines for Alex:
TOP TIP:
Accessibility: The beach features pathways that make it easier for wheelchairs and strollers to navigate. While access to the caves themselves may require some assistance, the surrounding sandy stretches are perfect for relaxing.
Parking: Ample parking spots, including accessible spaces, ensure a stress-free arrival.
Shade and Facilities: Shaded picnic areas and nearby restroom facilities cater to the needs of all visitors.
Sensory Delight: The gentle whoosh of waves and the cool, shaded caves offer a sensory-friendly environment for those who benefit from calming stimuli.
Tasty Café: What is a trip to the beach without a delicious coffee and snack. Check out the cafe for some tasty treats.
Head here during low tide to explore the caves safely and enjoy a gentle breeze while soaking in the ocean views.
2. GRANNY’S BEACH AT BLACKSMITHS: A FAMILY HAVEN
Granny’s Beach, a tucked-away gem at Blacksmiths, is a slice of paradise for families seeking a safe and tranquil environment.
Calm Waters: The sheltered location ensures gentle waves, making it perfect for children and adults with sensory sensitivities or mobility challenges.
Parking and Proximity: Close parking with accessible spots means you won’t have far to walk to the water’s edge.
Cafes and Conveniences: Local cafes nearby allow for a refreshing break or a quick bite without leaving the area.
Inclusive Fun: Families can enjoy calm paddling, fishing, or simply sitting under shaded trees while listening to the soothing water sounds.
HIGHLIGHT:
Its easy-going atmosphere makes Granny’s Beach a fantastic option for those looking to avoid the hustle and bustle.
A Newcastle icon, Nobbys Beach offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all abilities.
Wheelchair Accessibility: Nobbys Beach features accessible pathways, ramps, and beach wheelchairs available for hire, ensuring everyone can feel the sand between their toes.
Lifesaving Services: The presence of lifeguards enhances safety for everyone.
Parking and Proximity: Designated accessible parking and its close location to the beach make it a breeze to visit.
Fish & Chips: What is a visit to the beach with some good old fashioned fish and chips and The Kiosk are up there with the best! Leave the picnic basket at home and just sit back and relax and enjoy the view, the sights, and the sounds!
Great for Groups: Spacious areas make it ideal for families or groups to gather and enjoy the stunning views of the iconic Nobbys Lighthouse.
3. NOBBYS BEACH: NEWCASTLE’S ICON
4. NEWCASTLE BEACH A VIBRANT ALL-ROUNDER
Newcastle Beach combines vibrant energy with accessible features, making it an ideal spot for everyone.
Wheelchair-Friendly Access: Ramps and pathways provide smooth access to the sand, and beach wheelchairs are available for hire.
Patrolled Waters: Lifeguards on duty ensure a safe environment for families, especially those with children who need extra supervision.
Nearby Cafes and Amenities: Just steps away from the heart of Newcastle, you’ll find plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shaded areas to enjoy a break from the sun.
Sensory Appeal: The lively sounds of the bustling beach and rolling waves cater to sensory seekers, while quieter spots nearby offer a retreat.
Proximity to Play Areas: Nearby play zones and open spaces make it an excellent option for children and families who want to extend their day with more activities.
WHY THESE BEACHES ARE GREAT FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES
HIGHLIGHT:
Newcastle Beach strikes the perfect balance between urban convenience and coastal beauty, catering to diverse needs and interests.
Sensory-Friendly Environments: The combination of calming waves, gentle breezes, and shaded spots provides a sensory sanctuary.
Accessible Facilities: Pathways, parking, and restrooms have been thoughtfully designed to ensure inclusion.
Engagement for All Ages: From exploring caves to enjoying the safety of calm waters, these beaches are perfect for children and adults alike.
Community Connection: The nearby cafes and picnic areas foster a sense of community, making it easy to spend a day with family or friends.
FROGSCAPADES
Each month we will give you photographic update of what is happening at Red Frog for Families, whether it be all the new additions to the farm, new things at the clinic or just what our team has been up to!
This edition the team hit the beach to plan for 2025 and to get their closeup for the first ever edition of Red Frog for Families Magazine.
LEAP-IN: OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY INSIGHTS WITH ETHAN JAMES
Q: Can you briefly explain what occupational therapy is and its main goals?
A: Occupational therapy defines “occupation” as anything meaningful and routine for humans. For children, that often means play, participating as a family member, a student, or a team member. Our main goal is to help children thrive in those roles. We take a holistic approach, working with the child and their family to achieve goals around participation. This includes ensuring they can engage in activities, stay regulated when challenges arise, and develop essential life skills. These might include activities in daily life, like brushing teeth or dressing, or later-life skills like handwriting or academic tasks. A lot of our focus is on sensory processing and helping children make sense of the world around them through their sensory systems.
Q: What are some common misconceptions about Occupational Therapy?
A: A lot of people think occupational therapy is primarily for adults, perhaps working on basic daily tasks or rehabilitation. Historically, that’s true— OT initially focused on older adults dealing with disabilities or post-retirement challenges. However, when it comes to children, OT might look like “just playing.” But that play is highly purposeful. We follow the child’s lead, but we’re always targeting specific developmental goals like sensory integration, motor skills, or emotional regulation.
Q: What’s the purpose of play-based therapy? Why is it so effective for kids?
A: Play-based therapy meets children where they are, tapping into what motivates them and making it fun. Children’s brains are still developing, and traditional, repetitive exercises don’t always motivate the child, making it harder to translate well into their everyday lives. Play allows us to make therapy more engaging, motivational, and contextual. For example, we might work on grasping skills by having a child reach for toys on a swing rather than sitting at a table. Play disguises therapeutic goals and helps children generalise skills to real-life settings.
Q: Supporting children with disabilities must bring both rewards and challenges. Can you share some?
A: The biggest reward is seeing families celebrate milestones, like a child buttoning their shirt for the first time or managing their emotions better. It’s so fulfilling to know we’ve made a difference in their lives. On the flip side, sometimes we need to get creative and use play or abstract strategies to support the growth of each individual participant
Q: How do you manage the variability in children’s behaviour and progress?
A: We aim for the “just-right challenge”— pushing them toward their goals without overwhelming or boring them. Building relationships is key; we learn to recognise their triggers, body language, or even the sounds they make when they’re close to frustration. That way, we know when to push a little harder or pull back. Therapy is all about balance.
Q: What do you say to parents anxious about how quickly they’ll see results?
A: I’m upfront about this—it’s different for every child. There’s no universal timeline. In our initial meetings, we set realistic expectations and discuss strategies like weekly or twice-weekly sessions, intensive blocks of therapy or home programs. This holistic approach ensures that parents are part of the process and can reinforce therapy at home. It’s about progress, not perfection.
Q: How does Red Frog stand out from other support providers?
A: One unique aspect is our large therapy spaces, which allow for natural, unforced social interactions between children. We also have a strong focus on sensory integration, and many of our therapists are upskilled or working toward certification in this area. Our holistic approach means we ensure what works in the clinic can also be replicated or adapted to be used at home or school. We even offer one-off home and school visits to adapt therapy to the child’s environment.
Q: Are there common sensory triggers you often address in therapy?
A: Sensory challenges are unique to each child, but common triggers include auditory or visual overload, tactile sensitivities, or difficulties with internal body awareness. For instance, a child might struggle with the feeling of certain fabrics or have trouble planning their movements, leading to frustration. Addressing these through targeted sensory activities can make a big difference.
Q: Red Frog doesn’t have an age limit for participants. How do you adapt therapy for older children and adults?
A: As participants age, their goals evolve. For teenagers or young adults, we might focus on life skills, job readiness, or emotional regulation in workplace settings. Activities might include executive functioning games or collaborative problem-solving tasks. Regardless of age, the core of our model—building connections and using play—remains the same.
Q: What advice do you have for parents or carers supporting their child’s development?
A: Trust your instincts. Reach out—whether to us, your GP, or a teacher. We offer screenings to help parents understand if therapy might be needed. At home, try to incorporate therapeutic activities into daily routines. Even small adaptations, like using an exercise ball instead of a trampoline, can be impactful. And don’t hesitate to ask questions; there’s no such thing as a silly question when it comes to your child’s development.
Q: What’s one thing you wish more people knew about occupational therapy?
A: It’s not just about “fixing” a child; it’s about empowering them and their families. OT addresses everything from fine motor skills to emotional resilience, creating a toolkit for lifelong success. At Red Frog for Families, we focus on building strong connections— not just with the child but with their family—so therapy extends beyond the clinic into every aspect of their lives.
Q: Finally, any advice for aspiring OTs or families considering therapy?
A: For aspiring OTs, focus on building genuine relationships with participants—it’s the heart of what we do. For families, know that OT isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Be patient, trust the process, and celebrate every win, no matter how small. Therapy is a journey, and every step forward is progress.
FROG LIFE
SENSORY RECIPES FOR SUMMER
RECIPE 1: FROZEN YOGURT FRUIT ICE BLOCKS
These refreshing, healthy popsicles are perfect for scorching summer days and can be easily customised with your favourite fruits. Plus, they are fun and sensory-friendly, offering a cool, tactile experience for kids.
INGREDIENTS
1 cup of plain or vanilla yogurt (dairy or non-dairy)
INSTRUCTIONS
1
2
3 4
1/2 cup of mixed fruits (berries, mango, banana, or any fruit your child loves)
Blend the ingredients
Place the yoghurt, mixed fruits, and sweetener (if using) into a blender. Blend until smooth or leave some fruit chunks if your child prefers more texture.
Pour into moulds
Pour the yoghurt mixture into the popsicle moulds (or small cups if you don’t have moulds). Place the sticks in the centre.
Freeze
Freeze for at least 4 hours or until completely solid.
Enjoy!
Once frozen, pop the yogurt pops out of the moulds and enjoy a cool, healthy treat!
1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup (optional)
Popsicle moulds or small cups with sticks
TIPS
Let children choose their favourite fruits to add to the mix for a more interactive experience.
If your child is sensitive to textures, blend the fruit completely to make the pops smooth.
For additional fun, layer different fruit flavours in the mould to create colourful, striped popsicles!
FROG LIFE SENSORY RECIPES FOR SUMMER
RECIPE 2: PANCAKE FACES
INGREDIENTS
1 large ripe banana mashed 1 egg 150g self raising flour
INSTRUCTIONS
Pancakes are a delicious and fun way to share foodie-fun with your children. Children love the novelty of pancakes and the fun of decorating them can entice them to explore all the sensory properties of the toppings. This is a great opportunity to include crunch, squishy, slippery textures. 1
Whisk all the ingredients together in a bowl until a smooth batter is formed.
Spoon batter into a greased frying pan and cook on low-medium heat with lid on until bubbles form on the top.
Flip pancake and then cook for a further 3 minutes or until golden.
Serve with fruits and yoghurt for your children to decorate their pancakes with. Embrace the mess!
200g Greek yoghurt 150ml milk
FROG LIFE PERFECT LUNCH BOX RECOMMENDATIONS
BACK-TO-SCHOOL LUNCH IDEAS FROM DIETITIAN
LISA WATSON, FOCUSING ON NUTRITION AND EASE
I absolutely love working with children and families. In fact, I have spent all my working life working with children in some capacity. I also have a primary teaching degree and love to use my teaching skills to connect with my participants in a fun and engaging way. I approach each feeding therapy session from a Responsive Feeding Therapy (RFT) lens.
RFT ensures a child is never pressured to eat, instead the aim for the child is to achieve a sense of ‘felt safety’ around food. RFT is a respectful way of approaching mealtimes with children and nurtures their innate intuition and attunement to their own bodies. If we can honour and nurture this instinct from an early age we are giving our children a truly invaluable gift for life. It also eases the pressure often felt by both parents and children around mealtimes and makes for an enjoyable experience for all involved.
No matter who I am working with, whether it be kids or adults, I always apply a weight neutral approach to achieving health. This ensures my participants developlasting, positive relationships with food. My holistic approach and warm manner ensure that kids and their families are supported in their healthy-eating journey. By solving nutritional problems early in life, I can help families create an environment where meals are shared together, and kids develop healthy habits that last a lifetime.
Lisa Watson B/NutrDiet Hons. APD, AN Accredited Practicing Dietitian
FROG LIFE
TOP TIPS FOR MINDFULNESS
AND RELAXATION
BE KIND TO YOURSELF
We all know that with so many things happening in all our lives we often forget to slow down and just take a minute for ourselves, but we are here to remind you how important this is for you and your family. Each edition we want to provide you with some simple techniques to help you stop, take a breath, and just take a small amount of time to appreciate the world around you:
5-4-3-2-1
GROUNDING TECHNIQUE
Pupose: To bring attention to the present moment and reduce anxiety.
INSTRUCTIONS
1
2
3
Take a deep breath in through your nose and slowly exhale through your mouth.
Look around and identify:
5 things you can see (e.g., the trees, your child’s smile, the colour of the walls).
4 things you can touch (e.g., the fabric of your clothes, the texture of a chair).
3 things you can hear (e.g., birds outside, your child’s laughter, your breath).
2 things you can smell (or imagine scents like fresh-cut grass or coffee).
1 thing you can taste (or focus on your favourite flavours).
Repeat as needed, focusing on your breath throughout.
BREATHING ANCHOR
Pupose: To find a moment of calm during chaotic situations.
Find a quiet spot, or practice where you are.
Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly.
Inhale deeply through your nose for 4 counts, noticing your belly rise.
Exhale slowly through your mouth for 6 counts, feeling your belly fall.
Repeat for 2–5 minutes, using the sensation of your breath as an anchor.
AFFIRMATION BREATHING
Pupose: To reinforce positive thoughts while calming the mind.
Inhale deeply and silently say, “I am doing my best.”
Exhale slowly and silently say, “I am enough.”
Repeat with other affirmations like:
• “I am strong and capable.”
• “This moment will pass.”
Continue for 1–3 minutes.
WELCOME TO COSTA’S CORNER
Your go-to spot for games, activities, and crafts that bring fun and connection for kids of all ages and abilities. From brain teasers to creative challenges, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your thinking caps and let the fun begin!
WORD SEARCH
Summer Matching
Match the same elements.
BACK T0 CLINIC
Draw a line and help the children get to Red Frog.
PUZZLE fun
Colour your puzzle with your favourite colours of the rainbow. Then cut out your puzzle and have a friend solve it!
Colour your puzzle with your favorite colours of the rainbow. Then cut out your puzzle and have a friend solve it!
CROAKS ME UP
Each issue we will feature just a little bit of silliness with Dad Jokes courtesy of one of our Red Frog for Families originals, David Appleby. Check out some Summer themed fun!
What do bees say during a heat wave?
“Boy it’s swarm”
Why do bananas use sunscreen? So they don’t peel
What do you call a snowman in summer?
A puddle
What’s a frog’s favourite summer treat? Hopsicles
Why don’t skeletons like the summer?
They have no body to go to the beach with
What’s a cow’s favourite summer activity?
Going to the moo-vies
