Yarra Ranges Kids Autumn 2017

THINGS TO DO & PLACES TO GO FOR FAMILIES

mums supporting

mums

party planning

AND MUCH

more...

AUTUMN 2017

A Mail News Group Publication

about us . . .

seasons change but the

fun remains

SUMMER is over, but the fun never stops!

And this edition of Yarra Ranges Kids is proof.

creative inspiration from our Crafts section on page 25 or pick out a great book from our selection on page 30.

with fun events, important information and family services in and around the area.

This exciting edition is full of great ideas to keep everyone in the family entertained, rain or shine.

We have also included some important information for mums about expanding your network (page 4) and where to find support for your mental health (pages 6 to 8) and so much more.

As always, Yarra Ranges Kids loves hearing from you - the readers - so make sure to email jade.glen@ yarrarangeskids.com.au with any feedback or suggestions.

Whether it’s checking all the great places in and around the Yarra Valley (page 20), taking a day trip to Phillip Island (page 19) or exploring the wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary (page 22), we have you covered.

If you are happy to stay indoors, get

Remember to visit our website yarrarangeskids.com.au or our Facebook page facebook.com/ YarraRangesKids for your chance to win a heap of prizes and to stay up to date

Happy reading,

Yarra Ranges Kids magazine is a Mail News Group publication.

Yarra Ranges Kids will be published quarterly prior to each of the school holidays.

Yarra Ranges Kids 244 Maroondah Highway, Healesville, Vic 3777 Phone: 5957 3700 Fax: 5957 3777 Editorial Lia Spencer lia@yarrarangeskids.com.au Jade Glen jade@yarrarangeskids.com.au Phone: 5945 0666 Advertising Rose Dickson rose.dickson@mailnewsgroup.com.au Phone: 5957 3700 / 0428 269 897 Creative Creative Services Manager: Chris Beale

contents It’s Your Life

Education

Mum’s Connect Page 4 Mums find strength in numbers Pages 6-8

When nature is the best teacher Page 14 Support that young people deserve Page 18 Home school changes a worry Page 18

Design Mark Dinnie Virginia Hester Published by Mail News Group Pty Ltd ACN 99 006 310 498. Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas. All material is copyright to Mail News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible.

Entertainment

Hot cars taboo for kids Page 9 Hearing health in babies and children Page 10 New option of antenatal care Page 11

Party Time Plan kids birthday party Pages 12-13

Rangers maintain Island paradise Page 19 Hit the road for adventure Page 20 Perfect season for the sanctuary Page 22 Bring the pets along Page 23 Play has benefits, naturally Page 24

Crafts Adding colour to bubbles Page 25

THINGS TO DO & PLACES TO GO FOR FAMILIES

Reality Bites Water and wonder of birth Page 26-27

Games and Gadgets Don’t buy it, borrow it Your local toy library Page 28 These are a few of our favourite things Page 29 Books hold the beauty of the bush Page 30 Great new reads Page 30 Autumn activities Page 31

mums supporting

mums

party planning

AND MUCH

more...

AUTUMN 2017

A Mail News Group Publication

COVER: Maverick Benninga and mum Emma, founder of Sleepy Mumzzz (see story pages 6-8) Photographer: GREG CARRICK

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

AUTUMN 2017 3

It’s

your life

mums

connect

By Jade Glen

interests/passions and children the same age.

A NEW phone app is helping likeminded mums connect with each other from the comfort of their lounge rooms.

“In the process of doing our market research, business plan and meeting with a developer we discovered Mush, so approached the founders and pitched to them that we could be their Australian counterparts.”

Recently imported to Australia by two enterprising Melbourne mums, Mush borrows the premise of dating apps like Tinder to match mums who have shared interests and children of similar ages in their suburb.

Unlike the traditional Mothers Group format, which groups new mums solely by postcode, Mush allows mums to filter their nearby matches and choose to make contact with those whose share the same tags, which range from chocoholic, bargain hunter and foodie to those that identify special-needs and premmie mums.

Users can also set their status as ‘free to play’ to catch any available local mums for a last-minute park playdate – and the app even has local weather updates so you can doublecheck the weather forecast before heading out.

Melbourne mums Antoinette and Felicity approached the UK founders and launched Mush in Australia in June last year.

The pair met through their councilrun Mothers Group with their sons, Frankie and Jack, in July 2015.

“We felt that there had to be a different way for mums to connect with local mums with kids the same age,” Antoinette said.

“We were lucky and felt that we had some things in common but if we hadn’t we wouldn’t have felt connected to anyone in our Mother’s Group. It’s fine to meet other mums in the area because you have children the same age but after a while it’s hard to keep up the chit chat and playdates when you don’t actually connect with the mums.

“We wondered whether we could develop an app that was like tinder for mums – so you could create a profile and view the profiles of local women on the app to see if you had common

The app now has about 1500 Victorian users, and Antionette and Felicity hope it expands to include many more mums.

“Mush aims to make being a mum more brilliant.

“Our main goal for Mush is to ensure that every mum hears about it and doesn’t ever feel lonely because they are empowered to connect with other mums through it,” Antoinette said.

Felicity, a podiatrist, and Antionette, a marketing and communications specialist, have both returned to work part-time and now juggle their careers, motherhood and the development of the app.

MUSH AIMS TO MAKE BEING A MUM MORE BRILLIANT…

“We basically want to make it a one stop shop for mums – so aside from our guides, we have launched a hub where you can swap advice, ask a question or create and event. We will continue to evolve the product so it responds to the needs of mums and look for ways to make their life easier,” Antoinette said.

Mush is available to download free from the App Store or Google Play.

Above: One half of Mush’s Australia team, Atoinette and Frankie Marshall.

4 AUTUMN 2017

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

It’s

your life

Mums find strength in

numbers

By Jade Glen THE torture of prolonged sleep deprivation and subsequent diagnosis of Postnatal Depression inspired Emma Benninga to create an online network of mums that has now grown to encompass regular real-life meet-ups, a ‘mums who make’ market and charity fundraising.

Emma, from Mooroolbark, started the facebook group Sleepy Mumzzz in October 2015 after returning from a week at sleep school with her thenseven-month-old son Maverick.

“I had just returned from spendinga week at O’Connell Family Centre feeling very lonely, vulnerable and confused.

I wanted to create something special, a network of women going through the same experiences,” Emma said.

“The women were beautiful and I connected with a couple of mums who I still keep in touch with now.

6 AUTUMN 2017

“(After) sleep school I stayed home for about six weeks. I withdrew myself from my busy daily life and just focused on what I had learned. It worked and things definitely improved ... not dramatically but it was better.

“Then Christmas holidays came along and we went away for two weeks and all my hard work went down the drain.

This was pretty much when I gave up and went back to our old ways.”

Not long after this Emma visited her long-time GP, who diagnosed her with Postnatal Depression and referred her to a psychologist.

“PND is something I thought occurred in the early days, not 12 months later.

But when you have literally been living off five hours of broken sleep a night, occasionally more sometimes less, your body becomes physically and emotionally exhausted. Your mindset starts to change and your sanity becomes less and less. And it’s basically

a roller-coaster of emotions to follow.”

Emma lists her recovery from Postnatal Depression as her biggest achievement – she declined medication and instead decided to overhaul her lifestyle, along with fortnightly visits to a psychologist.“I started at the gym five days a week, I drank more water, changed my entire diet and I gave up alcohol for five months. All these things made me a happier and healthier person ... I became confident, mentally stable and healthy.

“It was a very busy time in our life when I was diagnosed with PND, we had just brought a new business which required my husband to work extremely hard and put in 60 to 70 hour weeks to get it up and running, while also playing and coaching at the local football club which took up three nights per week and every Saturday. So as you could imagine life felt pretty lonely at times, but somehow we did it, and we both came out the other end

stronger for it – and that’s something I am so proud of.”

Emma has done some work with PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia) and is part of its online group.

“I believe there is still a stigma associated with PND – I’m not quite sure why because it is so common and I truly believe every mum would feel some degree of depression at some stage, just others more serious. This is something I have tried to break down and be honest about and I have received a very supportive response from other women going through the same thing.

“I still have my days, but I think every mum has their days.”

Through the Sleepy Mumzzz group, Emma has shared her journey and has also been able to reach out to other mums who may be struggling – and unlike some of the large online parenting groups, Emma ensures Sleepy www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

Mumzzz is a supportive and encouraging environment with no negativity or judgement.

It is also an important social outlet for some women. At one Sleepy Mumzzz event, one mum confessed it was the first time she had left the house for five weeks.

The biggest event to date has been the Mums who Make market held in Montrose in December. The market showcased a number of stalls selling everything from candles, jewellery, baked goods and baby products, all produced by local women.

More than 150 mums and their children attended to listen to guest speakers, enjoy the live music, have some nibbles and stock up on some locally made Christmas presents.

The market was a great success and raised more than $1100 for The Babes Project, a local charity that supports women through pregnancy and the first year of motherhood.

“This was the part that made everything sink in and made me step back and think, hey we did it! It was a very proud moment,” Emma said.

Emma has also kicked off 2017 with the launch of a regular intergenerational playgroup at Donwood Aged Care in Croydon.

“It is bringing the young and the elderly together to create something truly beautiful. The way they interact together is magic. We have story time, sing songs, dance and play with all the toys and enjoy some morning tea.

Eventually I would like to get some children’s entertainers in and schedule

some themed days where we all dress up to have a bit of fun.

“We have only done one so far but the feedback was incredible from all of those who participated, the residents and also the staff. It’s a very overwhelming experience, seeing some of the residents in their vulnerable way, and it can become quite emotional at times also, because you can just see on their faces how much joy and happiness they get out of it. But I am going to embrace that emotion and be real because that’s what shows you care.

There’s nothing wrong with showing emotions, they are part of life.”

Emma has big plans for the future of Sleepy Mumzz as she contrinues to share her parenting journey and give back to others.

“I want to have a support group for

mums to meet weekly or monthly to share stories and support each other, I want to run events to support ‘mums that make’ while also raising money for my chosen charity The Babes Project, and my ultimate goal is to create an online platform where you can share real stories and helpful information, to list upcoming events on, and to interview other mums about their journeys.

“For me, helping others brings me so much happiness.”

■ Save the date: The next market will be a day supporting all things mums for Mother’s Day and is being held on Saturday 6 May. Venue is TBC; check facebook.com/sleepymumzzz/ for details.

Paradise Open every day 6:30am - 6pm

Beechworth Bakery Healesville 316 Maroondah Hwy www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

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AUTUMN 2017 7

It’s

your life

Emma and son Maverick.

Picture: Greg Carrick

Need help?

YOU can call The National Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Helpline on 1300 726 306 Monday-Friday 10am5pm.

Your call will be answered by a counsellor who will seek some basic contact details and ask a few questions about what prompted you to call the Helpline and about your own and your baby’s immediate safety. While you can choose to remain anonymous most of our callers don’t. From here the call unfolds for you as a storytelling experience. We want to understand what you are concerned about and how it is affecting you and your family.

If all counsellors are on calls you are encouraged to leave a brief message on the answering machine and you will receive a call back as soon as possible within the same day.

Why would I call PANDA?

Promotion commences 1/1/17 Bookings Essential

8 AUTUMN 2017

9736 4000 Cnr York & Swansea Roads Mt Evelyn

Most people call PANDA to seek support for themselves. However, they also receive calls from concerned partners, family, friends and health professionals. Being a parent can be very emotional and challenging, often in ways we don’t expect.

Sharing your story with someone who understands what you are going through can bea valuable step in your parenting journey.

Some people call because they are

finding the transition to parenting tricky. Others call because they are worried they may be experiencing perinatal anxiety or depression.

Generally something has prompted them to make that first call.

Some of the reasons are: ■ I don’t know what’s going on but I just don’t feel like myself.

■ I cannot stop thinking about the birth ... it was nothing like I had planned.

■ I just yelled at my toddler ... I am not the parent I wanted to be.

■ I am so tired I can’t do this anymore.

■ I hate being a mother ... I feel so guilty.

■ I am struggling in my relationship ... everything has changed since the birth of my baby.

■ I’m not sure I should be having this baby.

■ I had thoughts of driving into a tree this morning, it scared me, I need help.

You do not need a diagnosis of perinatal anxiety or depression to call PANDA. Almost everyone who calls is seeking to make sense of unfamiliar thoughts and feelings. It is not the group’s role to provide you with a diagnosis. Rather they aim to help you understand what is happening for you and your family, and to provide information and options for you to get additional support.

For more information visit www.panda.org.au

12334168-CG50-16

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

It’s

your life

hot cars taboo for kids THOUGH summer has come to an end, Victorian weather is unpredictable and temperatures can still soar.

Ambulance Victoria is warning parents never to leave their kids in a car following new data released recently.

Paramedics were called to 1562 cases of kids left in cars in 2016, with close to 80 per cent involving a toddler. From these calls, 15 kids were treated and transported to hospital.

State Health Commander Paul Holman said that people still didn’t seem to understand the deadly risks involved in leaving a child in a hot car.

“It is never OK to leave a child in a car. Even if you’re just ducking into the shops – you might get distracted or bump into someone you know and time can tick away much quicker than

you realise,” Mr Holman said.

“Given how much education there is about the dangers of leaving children in cars, it is disappointing that some people still decide to take that risk.”

Mr Holman said that while some of the 1562 cases paramedics were called to was an accident, the danger to the child still remained.

“That’s 1562 too many,” Mr Holman said.

“Some of these cases were accidents, while others appear to be deliberate.

Regardless of whether it is an accident or a deliberate decision, the risks are the same.

“It doesn’t have to be a scorching hot day for the car to quickly heat up.

“Tests by Ambulance Victoria have found that even on a 29-degree day the inside of a car can reach 44 degrees within 10 minutes and hit 60 degrees within 20 minutes.

“You wouldn’t get out of the car after shopping and leave your ice cream in the back seat, so why would you leave your children there?”

Mr Holman urged parents to be mindful and keep their keys in their hand while they are getting children and shopping in and out of the car.

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AUTUMN 2017 9

It’s

your life

hearing health in

babies and

children The first three years of life are critical for developing communication skills. Early intervention is vital for a child’s overall development.

What to look for: The following signs are a general guide for hearing health in babies and children.

Birth to eight weeks: A baby is startled by a sudden loud noise three to six feet away.

Three months: A settled baby quietens or smiles at the sound of their parent’s voice.

Six to 12 months: Baby turns head towards familiar voices or sounds, babbles and responds to close, quiet noises.

12 to 18 months: Baby knows and immediately responds to their own name.

18 months to two years: Child uses a number of single words – other than ‘mama’ and ‘dada’ – and understands simple instructions.

2.5 to 3.5 years: Child speaks clearly using groups of words, follows simple commands without visual cues and repeats phrases.

Older children: Hearing difficulties can be confused with behavioural problems in older children.

Constant inattentiveness, below average school performance and frequent colds and ear aches are signs that there may be a hearing or central auditory processing problem.

Australian Hearing is the largestHearing provider Australian of Government funded is hearing the largest services.

10 AUTUMN 2017

You can contact Australian Hearing if you are concerned that your child requires assistance with their hearing. They specialise in the management of hearing loss in infants and children.

If you would like more information or advice, contact your local Australian Hearing centre or send an enquiry via their website below: 12339818-ACM12-17

provider of Australian Hearing Knox 9837 8100 Government funded Croydon 9237 4100 hearing services Lilydale 9738 8400

What to do if you are concerned:

Australian Hearing Lilydale, 9738 8400, www.hearing.com.au/lilydale Australian Hearing Croydon, 9237 4100, www.hearing.com.au/croydon Australian Hearing Knox, 9837 8100, www.hearing.com.au/knox www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

It’s

your life

New opti on of

antenatal care

By Jade Glen

Long-time friends Lisa and Robyn – both private practice midwives, and both mothers of four – have joined together to form Yarra Valley Midwives, providing exceptional care during pregnancy, birth and up to six weeks post-partum.

they feel ashamed. It’s important that they feel positive about their birth,” Lisa said.

Empowerment is an important philosophy at Yarra Valley Midwives.

They offer Breathe pregnancy and birth classes, giving women and their families proven strategies to assist them during labour and birth.

Based in Healesville, their practice offers a real alternative for women seeking a primary caregiver for their pregnancy.

The classes equip couples with physical and emotional tools that Lisa and Robyn have adapted from modern and traditional techniques.

“We sit here for a discussion, build a rapport with people – it’s a different relationship altogether.

We are seeing our ladies every other week, we get a lot more relaxed with them,” Lisa said.

Breathe pregnancy classes are tailored for all couples, welcoming first-time parents, those that have done it before, and most importantly caters for all different types of birth.

Robyn said many women travelled from out of the area to receive their antenatal care at Yarra Valley Midwives. Although women have either Lisa or Robyn as their main midwife, they meet and get to know both during their pregnancy in case their primary midwife is ever sick or on leave.

Yarra Valley Midwives also offer home births for eligible women.

“How come you can live in Casey or Sunshine and have a publicly funded home birth for free (through Casey and Sunshine Hospitals’ home birth programs), but if you live somewhere else that’s not an option?” Lisa asked.

Yarra Valley Midwives Lisa and Robyn.

Developed by Midwives Presented by Midwives

12342446-RC12-17

LOCAL midwives Lisa Wraith and Robyn Partington have created a new option of antenatal care for Yarra Valley women.

We want to give women a chance to birth naturally ( but ) we are not anti-Caesar or medical intervention...

Governed by the Australian College of Midwives, Lisa and Robyn collaborate with a GP-obstetrician and have input from specialist services when required. They are also able to recommend alternative therapies to those interested.

While they support natural birth, they are dedicated to providing the best possible care for women and their babies.

“We want to give women a chance to birth naturally (but) we are not anti-Caesar or medical intervention.

“Natural birth is optimal but things happen and C-sections are needed.

It is such a crying shame when someone has a caesarean and then

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

“To many women that’s not acceptable.”

In contrast to some traditional models of pregnancy care, the relationship continues post-partum, with appointments offered at the mothers’ home or at the Yarra Valley Midwives rooms.

“Women can make as many appointments as they like in that first six weeks ... we can help with feeding and settling, or just reassure them what’s normal,” Robyn said.

As word of mouth spreads and business grows, Robyn and Lisa are kept busy with their clients. But they have exciting plans for the future, including a possible milk bank and admitting rights with Eastern Health.

Breathe birth classes are tailored for all couples and all birth types in a warm and nurturing environment. Strategies and techniques learned and practised throughout your pregnancy will empower you with trust and knowledge of your birthing body.

www.breathebirth.com.au AUTUMN 2017 11

party time

' Plan kid s

birthday party

By Lia Spencer

Some undercover park areas and the use of barbecues come with a fee, so make sure you check and book with your local council before sending out the invites.

IT’S the modern day birthday party conundrum. Parents across the state are overwhelmed with decisions when it comes to planning their child’s birthday party.

If you have money to burn there are several other options such as play centres, sporting venues, halls and other entertainment facilities.

Picking a theme. Deciding on a budget. Making a guest list.

And then there’s the etiquette issue.

Do you ensure the invites are handed out discreetly? Do you invite the parents to stay for a cuppa? Who picks up the child and drops them off? How do you cater for dietary needs?

Some parents are forking out hundreds of dollars to throw a party for their children from the age of one.

And it’s easy to do. Venue hire, fancy invites, special cakes, nibblies, drinks, entertainment and decorations can rack up quite a bill.

So how can you throw your child a great day to remember without racking up a credit card debt? We have ideas to suit every budget.

Parents, take note.

Who needs a theme, really? But when kids are young they let their imaginations run wild.

Little boys dream of being pirates and little girls believe they are fairies.

So why not run with it while you can?

Take their interests and turn it into a bit of fun everyone can join in on.

Here are a few themes you may want to entertain: ■ Pirates ■ Fairies

VENUE:

■ Superheroes

Staying at home will no doubt save the most money. But parks are also a great idea. Try to choose a park which has coverage in case it’s cold or it rains.

■ Holiday specific (Green for St Patricks, Pink for Valentines, Fancy dress for Halloween or Mr and Mrs Clause at Christmas)

■ Favourite colours

BIRTHDAY

PARTIES

We supply the venue and you bring your favorite party food!!

@

Party packages start at $10 per child (basic package) and include hot food platter, fairy bread, ice cream, soft drink, and lolly bags.

Additional kids party packages are available.

*special conditions apply

See our website for details: www.airactiontc.com.au/parties Bookings are essential call us today 238 Maroondah Highway, Chirnside Park 12 AUTUMN 2017

THEME:

■ Favourite cartoon characters

Air Action Trampoline Centre Self Catering Kids Birthday Parties

9726 0666

Many venues have party packages meaning they will take your cash, and then do all the work including invites, decorations, entertainment and food.

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Please don’t hesitate to ask us about hosting your next children’s party here! *special conditions apply

www.yorkonlilydale.com.au/kids Bookings are essential call us today 9736 4000

See our website for details:

Cnr York & Swansea Roads - Mt Evelyn 12343008-DJ12-17

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

party time

There are several printing and party companies who sell outstanding party invitations, and if you want to splurge, by all means do so.

But homemade invitations also work a treat. If your child is old enough, get them to grab paper, glue and scissors, pick out some stickers and personalise each invite with your own special touch.

They don’t have to be fancy, as long as they get all the details across including where and when the party is, what they need to bring (warm clothes, running shoes, etc), and contact or RSVP details.

When handing them out, check with the schools on procedures. Some schools prefer students hand out invitations outside of school hours and off school grounds, while other teachers want parents to give them the invitations so they can hand them to students discreetly.

Whatever you do, keep in mind that youngsters ‘feelings get hurt quite easily.

Speak to your child about inviting the kids who may not often get asked to join in on these fun events. The simplest gesture can mean the world to a child.

ENTERTAINMENT: If you have toys, arts and crafts or a few board games on hand, children can entertain themselves quite easily. But if you don’t have much stacked away in the cupboards, come up with a few games for the kids to play.

Hide and Seek and Scavenger Hunts in the backyard are always a favouritejust make sure to keep tabs on where the kids venture to, so you don’t end up in a panic when one good hiders refuse to come out from under the couch.

If you are happy to pay for someone else to entertain the kids for an hour or so, there are tons of options.

Facepainters, balloon artists, jumping castles, petting zoos, magicians. The possibilities are endless.

DECORATIONS: You don’t need to decorate, but if you do, choose items to suit your theme if you are having one. Buy balloons that fit the colour scheme. Sprinkle the tables with fairy dust “sparkles” or pin up some Batman posters. You don’t need to go above and beyond, as most children are oblivious to the small details anyways. But if you love to throw a party, then decorating will most likely be on your priority list!

FOOD AND DRINKS: At first birthday parties and other special occasions, some parents feel the need to fill eskies with lemonade for the little ones and champagne for the oldies. But don’t be sucked into all the pressure. Shouting all the mums’ and dads’ drinks can cost a fortune. Instead, if you are happy for them to bring alcohol, politely request that they bring their own.

traditionalist and want a cake, you can choose to get a professional to make one for you or you can bake it yourself.

Again, match your cake to the theme.

If you don’t have a theme, a simple chocolate or vanilla cake with sprinkles and candles will do the trick!

ATTITUDE Having a positive attitude leading up and during the big day will make planning and executing the party a lot less stressful! If you are smiling, chances are all the guests will be too!

And once clean-up is done, relax with a bubble bath, some soothing music and relish in the fact you have an entire year before you have to do it again. That is, unless you have several children or several special occasions in the next 12 months. If that’s the case, we wish you the best of luck!

Yummy Treats: Don’t have time to make your own treats to serve guests? Pick up some cookies, donuts or other delicious goodies from the Beechworth Bakery Healesville, 316 Maroondah Highway.

Contact these venues to discuss their party packages: Ace Space, Unit 9 rear of 286-288 Maroondah Highway, Chirnside Park, 9727 0755. Website: www. acespace.com.au Air Action Trampoline Centre, 238 Maroondah Highway, Chirnside Park, 9726 0666. Website: airactiontc.com.au Croydon Cinemas, Level 1, 3-5 Hewish Road, Croydon, 9725 6544.

Website: www.croydoncinemas. com.au Oz Ten pin Bowling and Laser Tag Centre. Eight locations across Victoria including Chirnside Park.

1800 OZTENPIN. Website: www. oztenpin.com.au Ruccis: Circus Experience for Everyone, Bayswater. Website: Circus@Ruccis.com.au. Website: ruccis.com.au York on Lilydale, Corner of York and Swansea Road, Mount Evelyn, 9736 3000. Website: www.yorkonlilydale. com.au/kids. The venue also features Club 4 Kids which is especially for kids up to 12 years, with fun things to make, play and be part of when eating out at family friendly bistros. Website: www. club4kids.com.au

Have fun and happy planning!

“Kids Birthday Party Packages from $8 each includes the invitation”

For parties specifically for children only, make a fun punch and add some fruit. Give them some sparkling water jazzed up with lemon or lime and a colourful straw, or tantalise their taste buds with a healthy fruit smoothie or a naughty strawberry milkshake.

Party Packages available for 10 or more, 3 fantastic packages to choose from plus up to four parents or guardians admitted for the same great price!

If you are throwing a party during breakfast, lunch or tea hours, cater appropriately. Make sure you have asked the children if any of them have any dietary requirements, as many have nut allergies or are glucose or lactose intolerant.

See our website for details: www.croydoncinemas.com.au Bookings are essential call us today 9725 Level 1, 3-5 Hewish Road, Croydon

Ignoring these conditions could come with severe or even fatal consequences.

Some traditional party food ideas include fairy bread, fruit platters, popcorn and lollies. Cupcakes are also a favourite and can replace the need for a cake. However, if you are a

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INVITATIONS:

Our Top Part y Picks:

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Fun Birthday Parties @ Oz Tenpin Chirnside Park

2190

per person

Bowling Party

$

2700

per person

Laser Tag Party

includes one game of

includes 2 games of

tenpin bowling, party pie,

laser, ½ hour video game

sausage roll, chicken

card, party pie, sausage

nuggets, hot chips,

roll, chicken nuggets,

soft drink, lolly bag and

hot chips, soft drink,

invitations.

lolly bag and invitations.

Birthday Child receives

Birthday Child receives

a free gift

a free gift

*Minimum of 8 children per party

25 Fletcher Road, Chirnside Park www.oztenpin.com.au/our-locations/chirnside-park Bookings are essential call us today: 9727 0007 www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

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$

AUTUMN 2017 13

Education

When

e r u nat

r e h c a e t t s e b e is th NATURE can be the best learning environment.

Children love to explore, create and discover through play.

Bush Kinder offers children an opportunity to reconnect and rediscover a sense of wonder and the play potential of natural outdoor learning.

Research shows the list of benefits of unstructured outdoor nature play is long; because such experiences develop the whole child physically and mentally.

Children today are spending more time indoors, in front of device screens and participating in structured activities.

These activities restrict children from participating regularly in outdoor unstructured activities and exploring natural environments.

Bush Kinder opens a child’s mind to the natural environment and the importance of embracing our world.

The outdoor environment is now being recognised as additional education assisting the holistic growth and development of the individual child.

Bush Kinder offers children the space to explore through their senses, as well as develop their investigation skills.

Many schools throughout Europe and Scotland have incorporated the natural environment as part of their intentional teaching program which has been in operation for over 50 years.

In Australia Bush Kinder connects the significance of the land and Indigenous culture to the formal learning environment.

Investigative tools such as: magnifying tools, cameras, paper and pencils have been used to record and extend the discoveries that children make during their time in the bush.

14 AUTUMN 2017

Bush Kinder programs aim to develop children’s risk management skills, social and emotional capabilities, imaginative play, and community involvement to develop each child’s moral compass and environmental appreciation.

Bush Kinder was established at Cire Children’s Services in 2012 after an information gathering trip to Denmark was undertaken to learn about the concept of Bush Kinder and what was involved in accessing space that would suit the theory.

The Cire Bush Kinder benefits the community where the children gain knowledge about the environment, intentional teaching takes place about sustainability and the children take ownership of the space.

“We are so glad that the children do regular excursions to the bush block. Our child loves going there and gets so much out of the program.”

Nicole (parent of child attending Cire four-year-old kinder Mt Evelyn).

Playing and exploring in the bush allows children many important benefits such as open-ended, unstructured and free play experiences, helping children to gain confidence to make their own decisions from self-directed and selfcontrolled play.

Children develop respect and appreciation for the natural environment.

This kind of experience can help children develop their understanding of the natural world in which they live;

including deepening their knowledge on plants, animals, insects and life cycles.

Outside play helps to build competence and confidence with many physical skills, such as balance, spatial awareness, co-ordination, gross and fine motor skills.

It provides opportunities to take chances and manage risks; the bush provides many opportunities for learning the skills needed to navigate a world full of risks.

Bush Kinder offers direct experiences with natural elements which contribute to positive sustainability values; such as discussions about caring for the environment and learning about droughts and water preservation.

Get dirty with mud! The open-ended nature of mud play is perfect for the developing brain. There is no end to the creations, ideas and games children will invent.

During this type of unstructured, outdoor play, children are not only exercising but are building their ability to form ideas, problem solve, and think critically, as well as being innovative and inventive.

New research shows that exposure to friendly soil bacteria (Mycobacterium Vaccae) stimulates the immune system causing the brain to release serotonin; the endorphin used to regulate mood.

Play in nature has been found to promote physical agility and social confidence. Recent research in Sweden shows that natural environments encourage play that is gender-neutral and brings boys and girls together.

It develops connections with nature and sustainable practices; creating an emerging understanding of our impact on the environment for present and future generations.

Bush Kinder provides the ability to learn through their own curiosity, creativity and willingness to explore their surroundings.

Develop risk management skills through learning which is a strength within the natural surroundings; children gain confidence and awareness of limits and boundaries as part of safe practices.

Play is initiated by the children and is based on their interests, thoughts and ideas. Educators allow children to direct the investigation, extending on learning as the children’s interest progresses.

“My children love bush block and are so lucky to have access to an area where they can learn to appreciate and explore our natural environment!

Such a great opportunity for unstructured play and discovery.

Holly (parent of child attending Cire Bush Kinder).

I asked my son Henry about the bush block and he says the best thing is going hunting for treasure – feathers, gumnuts, leaves etc.

Louise (parent of child attending Cire Bush kinder).

■ For more on Cire Services turn to page 18 www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

Education

support

that young people deserve

By Lia Spencer VULNERABLE young people in the Yarra Valley are getting the support and care they deserve with the attentive and welcoming attitude at Cire Community School.

Cire Community School, formerly Yarra Valley Community School, has been operating as a registered Specialist Senior Secondary School since January 2015 and caters for young people with complex life issues and challenging behaviours.

Principal Tim Knowles said many of the students referred to the school had experienced trauma and disruption to their schooling to date.

“Students may have significant gaps in academic achievement and find it difficult to learn in a regular school setting. They may also have behavioural and social problems at school. At Cire Community School, we believe that students flourish when the school community is held to high expectations and students receive support that best meets their individual goals and needs,” he said.

“We believe that all young people

should be able to positively engage in their education regardless of their life circumstances and any barriers to learning. Education should not just focus on academic attributes but on the whole person, providing active support for their social and emotional development while supporting the development of knowledge and skills needed for a rapidly changing world.”

The independent school is one of the most affordable in the state, and provides an educational environment that is modelled on a primary school class structure, whereby students have the one classroom and one teacher for the majority of their core study at a particular level of Junior Secondary or VCAL. This enables the development of strong and positive relationships between the teacher and students and between students within the peer group, facilitating a safe and supportive environment for the students.

Mr Knowles said there were a range of reasons that young people needed a different approach to learning.

“Many of our students have not experienced success in other school environments,” he said.

“We are all about redefining success for young people who attend our schools. Our flexible, and supportive approach is what sets us apart from mainstream schools.”

For more information about Cire Community School, located at Yarra Junction and Mt Evelyn, visit www.cire. org.au, https://www.facebook.com/ cireservices or book a campus tour by contacting our school administration team on 1300 835 235.

Principal Tim Knowles.

home

Home School educators Shona Archer and Shona Armstrong with their students Heath, Jonathan, Drew, Esther and Martyn.

Picture: Jodie Symonds

school changes a worry

By Kath Gannaway HOME-SCHOOLING parents have railed against proposed changes to regulations they say will result in less time teaching their children and may require children to stay in unsafe environments in mainstream schooling.

The Victorian Government released Draft Education Regulations just days before Christmas which include changes that the Home Education network says have the potential to affect parents and their children and has accused the government of legislation by stealth.

A spokesman for the Education Department has dismissed the claims saying the changes were being made 18 AUTUMN 2017

as part of the Education and Training Reform Regulations, which were made in 2007 and which need to be reviewed after 10 years.

Home educator Shona Archer said the timeframe allowed little time for concerned parents to contact their local members of parliament, or for media discussion over summer holidays.

She said the draft was due to be ratified when parliament returned on 7 February.

Some of the proposed changes include all new home educators to submit a plan for approval, children to remain in school until approval has been given to home school and all home educators to be reviewed on a random basis.

Ms Archer voiced concern that the

assessments would be done by the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority staff, who she claims are inexperienced and not supportive of home education.

Susan Wight, co-ordinator of the Home Education Network (HEN) which represents many home educators said there were a number of problems with the proposed regulations but said the timing of releasing the 66-page document was a gross injustice to all Victorian parents.

Ms Wight said in relation to the requirement for approval before a child could be removed from school, the ability to withdraw a child from a negative situation as a matter of urgency was every parent’s right.

“Requiring prior approval from

bureaucrats with a vested interest in keeping children in school would allow the Education Department to quietly limit home education unless it replicated its own model, which is just not plausible,” she said.

The department spokesman said while most home school families did a good job, and the regulations had been working well, the aim should always be for improvement.

“Requiring a learning plan from home schooling families and giving the VRQA powers to review a family’s arrangements for home schooling are sensible steps forward,” he said.

“It ensures young people get the education they deserve while still leaving home schooling families with considerable freedom.

“There will be no requirement to provide home schooling in accordance with a specified curriculum, no mandatory home visits and registration will be ongoing rather than having to be renewed regularly as in some other states. Assessment will be done by education experts who have experience in different learning styles, including home schooling.”

“In terms of timing – a detailed consultation paper was launched in December last year to allow enough time for an extended consultation period of 60 days – compared to the required 28.

“This will enable the development of the final policy in time for the sunset date of June 2017,” he said.

Ms Wight urged home school parents and parents of children in mainstream schooling to contact their local member of parliament to push for an extension of time. www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

Entertainment

Rangers maintain

island paradise Words and images supplied

by Phillip Island Nature Parks MOST people think of Phillip Island’s beautiful beaches, lazy summer holidays and, of course, the penguins.

But there’s a special group of people whose responses are more likely to include topics such as eradicating feral animals, revegetation and wildlife rescue.

These are the Environment Rangers from Phillip Island Nature Parks.

Since their introduction to Australia in the mid-1800s, foxes have played a significant role in the decline of many native species.

On Phillip Island, foxes are the little penguin’s biggest threat on land, having been responsible for many penguin deaths, with a single fox capable of killing up to 30 penguins a night.

In 2006 the nature parks adopted a Fox Eradication Project incorporating a range of integrated techniques such as night-time searches, fixed cameras and track searches.

This program was further enhanced in 2014 with the introduction of fox detection dogs, Sam and Jazz.

Alongside their handler, the dogs have achieved excellent results, covering over 2700km of survey areas in 2015 alone.

This dedicated team, along with an integrated approach to eradication, has been responsible for reducing the fox population on the island from an estimated 60 to 70 at the start of the program, to what is estimated to be less than six individuals now, with no physical evidence of foxes found since August 2015.

Removal of pest animals is only part of the story, of course, and needs to be combined with revegetation works to protect wildlife habitat.

The major focus of the nature parks’ rangers over the past 12 months has been on increasing biodiversity as well as plant numbers to maintain sustainable habitats.

To that end 55,000 grasses, shrubs, trees and ground covers were planted during the last year by rangers and a group of volunteers.

As these plantings mature over time, the selected vegetation is able to out-compete the weeds, allowing native plants to self-generate and maintain a sustainable habitat for the island’s wildlife.

This wildlife is at the heart of operations carried out by nature parks rangers in the area of wildlife rescue and rehabilitation.

Highly trained rangers are on duty 365 days a year, responding to reports of sick or injured wildlife on Phillip Island, receiving 820 calls for assistance last year alone.

Thanks to the generosity of donors, and the successful fund-raising activities of the Penguin Foundation such as the adopt-a-penguin program, the nature parks opened a state-of-theaart rehabilitation clinic in 2011 within the Penguin Parade precinct.

This clinic is the hub of wildlife care undertaken by nature parks rangers on the island, and treats approximately 500 animals each year.

Rangers also carry out an important rescue program when the short-tailed

Revegetation works are protecting the wildlife habitat.

shearwaters commence their annual migratory journey to Alaska each April.

The shearwater chicks have difficulty flying and can be attracted to street lights, often finding themselves on the roads at the mercy of traffic.

Rangers and volunteers rescued about 360 shearwaters last year, giving them another chance to complete their long migration.

As a world leader in eco-tourism, Phillip Island Nature Parks takes its role of conservation and managing the environment very seriously and is at the forefront of world’s best practice when it comes to caring for the natural habitat and environment on Phillip Island.

So when next enjoying watching the penguins waddle ashore at the Penguin Parade or lazing on one of the wonderful beaches, spare a thought for the rangers, the unsung heroes who are on the front line of maintaining this much loved holiday destination.

For more information on Phillip Island Nature Parks, visit www.penguins.org. au.

Fairy penguins are a huge tourist drawcard.

Your wildlife playground ©h heckepics pics / PINP pic P

Experience Phillip Island’s unique attractions

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Wild Oceanss

ECOBOAT OA AT TOUR

FOR BOOKINGS & INFORMATION

Call 03 5951 2800 or visit penguins.org.au 12322526-KC50-16

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

AUTUMN 2017 19

Entertainment

Hit the

road for

adventure Pictures supplied by: Heritage Holden Lilydale.

Whether it’s rain or shine outside, there’s always an excuse to get out of the house and explore what the Yarra Ranges has to offer.

For anyone who is looking for a great way to spend the day or few fun ideas to fill a weekend, Yarra Ranges Kids has you covered with this list of family road trip ideas.

Feeling competitive?

Oz Ten Pin Bowling and Laser Tag Centre Chirnside Park. www.oztenpin.com.au.

Trees Adventure Old Monbulk Road, Belgrave.

Yarra Valley Archery Park Launching Place.

Relax and be entertained

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens Sherbrooke.

Healesville Sanctuary www.zoo.org.au.

Lake Mountain Experience the exhilaration of the 240 metre dual flying fox, slide down the tube run or enjoy a game of Laser Skirmish and much more. There are also several fun activities on during school holidays. Lakemountainresort. com.au.

Mount Burnett Observatory

Bayswater Cinema Under the Stars Bayswater

Phillip Island Nature Park www.penguins.org.au.

Croydon Cinemas Croydon. www.croydoncinemas.com.au

Skyhigh Mount Dandenong Skyhigh Maze

Crystal Brook Tourist Park Doncaster East. www.cbtp.com.au

Play!

Ace Space Chirnside Park. www.acespace.com.au.

See our website for weekly classes, special events and Birthday Parties information

Experience nature

Air Action Chirnside Park Chirnside Park. www.airactiontc.com.au.

Animal Land Children’s Park Diggers Rest.

BRICKS 4 KIDZ Knox.

Bundoora Park Children’s Farm Bundoora.

Chesterfield Park Children’s Farm Collingwood Children’s Farm Collingwood.

Croc’s Play Centre Various locations throughout Victoria.

Steavenson Falls Marysville.

Hedgend Maze Healesville.

Fancy a picnic in the park?

Bollygum Park – Kinglake The park features a great playground, cafes and Kinglake Produce and Artisan markets on the fourth Sunday of every month from 10am to 3pm.

Emerald Lake Park – Emerald Home to the miniature railway, Puffing Billy playground, lake and walking tracks.

Gallipoli Park – Marysville This park includes elevated sandpit, slides, roundabout, rope climbing net, flying foxes and swings.

Lillydale Lake

Ruccis www.ruccis.com.au.

12342936-LB11-17

20 AUTUMN 2017

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

Entertainment

Perfect season

for the sanctuary THIS autumn don’t miss out on a day at Healesville Sanctuary.

Healesville Sanctuary’s location in the Yarra Valley gives staff the unique opportunity to serve visitors the best food, coffee and produce in the region.

Visitors can embrace the cooler weather and get the kids out of the house for a day of discovery.

Between three cafes, Healesville Sanctuary caters for every taste and budget - from couples looking for something special, to groups wanting a great lunch option, to fussy kids looking for a snack on the go.

At Healesville Sanctuary there’s plenty of wildlife to see as well as engaging and interactive spaces for children to learn and have fun.

While exploring the Sanctuary kids are given the opportunity to connect and play in the natural environment.

The wildlife get more active as the weather cools down, too!

Visitors love the Mountain pygmypossum at Healesville Sanctuary.

Pictures: Zoos Victoria

Autumn is the best time of year to hear lyrebirds call.

within and near their bush habitat and reproduce.

Healesville Sanctuary has just introduced a new pair of lyrebirds, Apollo and Coranderrk, into its Lyrebird Aviary.

The tiny Mountain pygmy-possums are also busy gorging themselves on all the delicious fruits and nuts they can get.

Autumn brings the lyrebird breeding season with it so visitors will be able to hear the male lyrebird calling on their next visit!

These tiny possums usually weigh around 45 grams but can get up to 80 grams in the lead up to their winter hibernation.

Lyrebirds are famed for their mimicry of other birds and sounds such as chainsaws, camera whirrs and clicks, and car sounds – sounds that they hear

Mountain Pygmy-possums are the only hibernating marsupial in Australia.

The bilbies are excited to show off as the Aussie Easter icons so for those who have got friends or family visiting for the Easter long weekend Healesville Sanctuary is the perfect place to take some time out to wander and explore.

Don’t forget – kids can enter for free on weekends, public holidays and all school holidays!

A visit to Healesville Sanctuary is a great day out for kids at any time of year.

Mountain pygmy possums love to gorge themselves on any fruits and nuts they can get.

For a chance to win one of five family passes, courtesy of Healesville Sanctuary, make sure to like the Yarra Ranges Kids Facebook page and check out the competition tab on the Yarra Ranges Kids website, www. yarrarangeskids.com.au.

12342292-RC12-17

Sanctuary Harvest is bringing soul warming food to the table this autumn.

Make sure to book in a day to visit Healesville Sanctuary which is open 365 days a year including Good Friday!

22 AUTUMN 2017

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

Entertainment

Bring

the

pets along

By Jodie Symonds IT CAN be frustrating when you’re on holidays and unable unable to take your furry friends along with you.

Thankfully, Crystal Brook Tourist Park in Doncaster East opened an Off Leash Area for your cuddly companions to have a great time while you relax and enjoy your stay.

Adults, children and their pooches are able to have a ball, literally, and play on the many obstacles including tyres, tunnels and more.

Crystal Brook Tourist Park has the convenience of a city location, with the ability to be surrounded by Australia’s spectacular wildlife from the country.

The park became pet friendly on Saturday 11 February where money was raised toward Animal Rescue.

A stay at Crystal Brook Tourist Park will be fun for the whole family, including your pooch.

Crystal Brook Tourist Park is at 182 HeidelbergWarrandyte Road, Doncaster East.

CRYSTAL BROOK

12339991-RC12-17

A pooch enjoying its playtime in the off-leash area at Crystal Brook Tourist Park in Doncaster East. Picture: CONTRIBUTED

For more information www.facebook.com/ crystalbrooktouristpark or call 9844 3637.

TOURIST PARK Crystal Brook Tourist Park is a perfect combination of a city park with the atmosphere and natural attractions of a bush park and its wildlife. It’s the perfect base from which to explore some of Melbourne’s and Victoria’s great attractions and events. It is located within an easy drive of the CBD of Melbourne, the Yarra Valley and has public transport at the front gate.

FEATURES AND FACILITIES INCLUDE: • Range of cabins and villas • Powered, ensuite and tent sites • Heated alfresco BBQ area • Camp Kitchen • Fully equipped laundry • Jumping pillow, games room

• Heated pool • Pet friendly sites and cabins (Conditions apply) • Dog off leash area • We welcome group bookings

Crystal Brook Tourist Park 182 Heidelberg - Warrandyte Rd, Doncaster East 3109 (Melway Map 34 F3) www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

Phone: 03 9844 3637 Email: info@cbtp.com.au Web: www.cbtp.com.au AUTUMN 2017 23

Entertainment

Play has benefits,

{naturally} EXPERIENCE the benefits of nature play at Lillydale Lake Playspace.

encourage people of all ages to participate and enjoy the space.”

The playspace, which is expected to open in April, will provide a unique experience for families in the Yarra Ranges because of its focus on creeks, wetlands, marshes, reed beds and animals in their natural habitat.

Family and community support services manager Guy Masters said spending time playing, and connecting with nature was important for children’s physical and mental development.

Research indicates that regular unstructured outdoor nature play is beneficial, and even essential to human health and wellbeing. Benefits of unstructured outdoor nature play include expanding sensory use, strengthening muscles for gross and fine motor skills, improving concentration and decreasing heart rate and muscle tension.

Billanook Ward councillor Tim Heenan said children would have the opportunity to immerse themselves in

24 AUTUMN 2017

We know that being in nature can have a therapeutic affect on people of all ages... the natural environment and learn about how water impacts the landscape.

playground, including water, sand and local animals depicted in their home,” he said.

“The community will be able to experience the elements within this

“The playspace has been designed to provide educational benefits and

“Children need and we know from consultation that they value the opportunity to access nature and for their parents and grandparents to share in nature play experiences with them,” he said.

“We know that being in nature can have a therapeutic affect on people of all ages.

“Being in the natural environment has a restorative quality and is needed more than ever in our busy, modern lives.”

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

crafts

Adding

colour to

bubbles

By Jade Glen EVERYONE loves bubbles, and introducing food dye is a cheap and easy way to breathe new life in to an old favourite.

The bubbles landing on the paper make some beautiful patterns – trim your favourite section and pop it on the fridge to admire or save the finished product to use as wrapping paper.

Mess factor: 5/5 – Definitely an outside job. Food dye may stain hands and clothes so grab a smock for this one.

Supplies: Bubble mixture, small containers, food dye, paper, smock.

Method: Step 1: Pour bubble mixture in to small containers.

1

Step 2: Add food dye to your bubble mixture. We used red, yellow, green and blue.

4

Step 3: Start blowing! Blow bubbles on to the paper.

Experiment with blowing close to the paper and further away to get different sized bubbles. We also flicked some mixture on to the paper to create some different patterns.

Step 4: Voila! Allow to dry and admire your finished artwork.

3 2

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

AUTUMN 2017 25

reality bites

water and wonder of

birth Lu cy Cote shares the story of her water birth SINCE around 38 weeks my Braxton Hicks ramped up, I often started feeling nauseous in the mornings and I had a couple of ’false starts’ of labour, so getting closer to my due date I did not become hopeful that each recurrence would end in established labour and birth.

My son Lachlan arrived on his due date, so when my due date this time came and went I wondered how much longer we would be waiting to meet our new bundle.

On Thursday 12 May – one day past my due date – I started getting some pains at 8.45am, ranging from four to eight minutes apart. With the false starts in mind I didn’t get too excited, but spent the morning with a heat pack, quite uncomfortable.

Lucy and Isla.

I had a scheduled appointment with my midwife at 11.30am, and my husband Rene had been able to wrangle the morning off work to come to the appointment, so off we went with Lachlan.

At the appointment my midwife asked if I’d been experiencing any signs of labour and I described the pains I’d been having that morning.

26 AUTUMN 2017

She could tell I was uncomfortable as I’d brought the heat pack with me to the appointment, so although she normally wouldn’t until a later gestation, she sensed baby was not far away and offered to give me a stretch and sweep, which I gladly accepted.

Upon inspection at 11.45am she declared I was already 3cm-4cm dilated and could stretch me to 5cm.

Thinking the stretch and sweep would kick start things, she took us all down to a birthing suite to see if things progressed over the next hour.

Initially I was told to just hang out for a while and see what happened, but my midwife decided fairly quickly to admit me as I was GBS positive and was having antibiotics administered for it.

So about 12.15pm I was admitted and had a bung put in my arm, and at 1pm had my first dose of antis.

I was getting contractions every three to five minutes, which were perfectly manageable by leaning over a table into a pillow and breathing slowly.

She also ran the spa for me as I was interested in labouring, and perhaps birthing in the water – at this point I still hadn’t quite decided.

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

reality bites

intense and closer together; around two to three minutes. ’Ahh’ing was not enough any more, and – my poor husband and midwife – I took it upon myself to pretty much scream through each contraction.

Although it must have sounded awful and like I was out of control (I was later told a pregnant woman out in the hall commented to another midwife that she hoped I would be birthing soon) I strangely still felt in control, just that screaming made me feel better.

I was still in my favourite position leaning over the table for each contraction, and squeezing the stress balls throughout.

At about 4.45pm my midwife suggested I go to the toilet then get in the spa. The idea of fitting in a toilet trip between two contractions was quite daunting, as I did not fancy the idea of sitting on the toilet during a contraction.

But I found some bravery and dashed over as soon as one finished, and was JUST into the spa in time for the start of the next contraction.

I asked my midwife to please tell me this all wasn’t going to last much longer as I wasn’t sure how much more I could take, and she assured me it wouldn’t be much longer (I’m not sure if I believed her 100 per cent, thinking maybe she was just trying to keep me motivated).

I was leaning over the edge of the spa in much the same position I had been leaning over the table, but on my knees instead of standing. I was still screaming through contractions and my midwife suggested that perhaps I might like to try a lower toned scream to save my throat (though I secretly suspect that it was more for the health of her eardrums than for my throat).

I tried this but it wasn’t doing it for me.

At about 5pm I started feeling a massive pressure and could tell bub was making her way down, which I made known to my midwife.

She quickly administered the required second dose of antis for the GBS and asked me to change positions so she could catch the baby.

I flipped onto my back and continued hollering and squeezing my stress balls as I felt baby move down – all this time I was not pushing – baby must have been very keen to vacate and was making her own way out.

We chatted to the midwife who was looking after me while my midwife finished her clinic appointments, and she seemed confident that we wouldn’t be leaving the hospital without a baby, so we decided to call my parents to come and collect Lachlan.

They arrived around 2pm and swapped cars with us and took him back to our house.

Labour continued and the contractions increased slightly in intensity so I started ’mmm’ing’ and ’ahh’ing’ through them, still while leaning over the table into a pillow.

This position just felt right. I also started using my stress balls, just squeezing one in each hand during contractions.

In between contractions I was chatting to Rene and keeping myself distracted with Facebook.

My midwife talked to me about if I would like to birth in the water and what my apprehensions were. Mostly www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

' Ahh ' ing was not enough any more, and - my poor husband and midwife I took it upon myself to pretty much scream through each contraction...

I just didn’t like the idea of soaking in blood and gunk after birth, but she reassured me that any blood loss mostly goes unnoticed, and in actual fact it’s a very clean birth for the baby coming out in the water.

I think I was convinced.

Soon my midwife finished her clinics and resumed my care. As I had been admitted to the hospital I had to abide by their policy which was to have internals every four hours, and if I wasn’t progressing, choose between going home or having some intervention.

This was much to my midwife’s

dismay, and why she encourages her patients to stay at home as long as they can.

Needless to say I was praying I had progressed!

She did the exam at 4.15pm and I was 5cm and she could stretch me to 6cm. At least it was something.

Although not necessary, as I had progressed, she offered another stretch and sweep, or for her to break my waters, if I wanted her to.

Not wanting things to potentially go on all night, I opted for another sweep.

Almost as soon as I stood up after this sweep, the contractions became very

I was concentrating hard on trying to relax, as impossible as it seemed, and I think this helped bub come down swiftly.

Finally, with one big contraction I felt that ever-familiar ‘ring of fire’ (though on reflection this was significantly less firey than for my son’s birth, which was not in the water) and baby’s head was out.

Swapping one stress ball to the other hand I reached down and touched her head – she had lots of hair. My midwife asked if I wanted to put the stress balls down and catch the baby when she was born – absolutely not, I told her!

There was no way I was letting go of my stress balls during contractions!

With the next contraction my midwife asked me to give just a little push, which I did, and my baby girl was born. She was placed on my chest and I looked at Rene in disbelief – our baby girl was here, and she was pink, and chubby, and had an impressive set of lungs. It was 5.13pm – less than an hour since my last sweep.

Despite bub being an impressive size for my relatively small stature I was lucky to get away with just two small grazes.

Isla’s birth was an intense and incredible experience.

AUTUMN 2017 27

Games and gadgets

' Don t buy it,

borrow it

By Jade Glen Belgrave South Toy Library Inc Address: 129 Colley Drive BELGRAVE HEIGHTS

HAVE you ever spent a small fortune on a toy, only for it to gather dust in a corner after a few days?

Email: info@bstl.com.au

Is your house bursting at the seams with toys that rarely get used?

Mountain Top Toy Library

Do you ever wish you could just return those noisy, flashing, spinning toys that drive you up the wall?

Address: Olinda Hall, 69 OlindaMonbulk Road OLINDA Email: OlindaMTTL@hotmail.com Mt Evelyn Community Toy Library Address: 44 Birmingham Road MT EVELYN Phone: 0402 533 897 Email: enquiries@ mtevelyntoylibrary.org.au Website: www.mtevelyntoylibrary. org.au Upwey Toy Library Address: 1443 Burwood Highway UPWEY

If you answered yes to any of the above, then get yourself to a toy library, stat. (Maybe after a stealthy declutter of those toys that are no longer used).

Toy libraries are a great resource for parents, grandparents and carers. Just pay a small yearly fee to access thousands of different toys – pick a couple, take them home and when the novelty wears off, you can return them and borrow something else.

Borrowing saves you money, saves having to find storage and is better for the environment. Everyone wins – especially the kids who have a rotation of interesting toys to play with.

Bec Brannigan is president of Mt Evelyn Toy Library, which offers a range

Why buy one toy, when you can buy them the whole shop? of toys suitable from birth to early primary school age.

“I joined up about four years ago when my daughter was starting to walk and I couldn’t decide if I should buy a walker for her – I’m glad I did that, as she got over it within two weeks,” Ms Brannigan said.

“Kids grow out of toys quite quickly, so a toy library provides a way to still have those toys, without needing to store them when the child has outgrown it or is bored of it.

families. As their books continue to swell with new members (and new toys!) the library has recently enjoyed a thorough overhaul, with the space opened up, painted and refurbished with new flooring, racks and shelving.

“It’s been a mammoth job, but the results have been fantastic,” Ms Brannigan said.

“It can also serve to ‘try before you buy’ – I think this is for both the child and the adult sometimes … noisy toys get annoying fast!”

“We have about 2500 toys available – baby toys including walkers and shape sorters; costumes; large kitchen sets; ride-on cars; outdoor sport activities; role play sets; Duplo; cars; Magformers; musical toys; jigsaw puzzles – small and large; arts and crafts – playdough moulds, stencils, stampers … so many things!

Mt Evelyn Toy Library opened in 1979 and now has over 70 member

“Why buy one toy, when you can buy them the whole shop?”

Phone: 0403 890 055 Email: upweytoylibrary@gmail.com Healesville Toy Library Address: Healesville Public Library building, 110 River Street HEALESVILLE Phone: 0477 773 640 Website: www.healesvilletoylibrary. wordpress.com Yarra Glen Toy Library Address: 39 Bell Street YARRA GLEN Phone: 03 5964 9210

Teagan Bouma sorts through some toys to borrow.

Maroondah Toy Library Address: Parkwood Community Hub, 35-39 Tortice Drive

Sonny, 1, and Elkie, 2, try out a car.

RINGWOOD NORTH 3134 Phone: 03 9723 0866 Email: enquiries@ maroondahtoylibrary.org.au Website: www. maroondahtoylibrary.org.au

Lachlan, 4, test drives a toy.

Pictures: GREG CARRICK 28 AUTUMN 2017

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

Games and gadgets

a few e r a e s e h T ite r u o v a F r of ou Things

Bec Brannigan is mum to Isla, 4, and Flynn, 3.

She is also the president of the Mount Evelyn Toy Library.

My Toy Library membership.

I have a small house and limited storage, this has been a godsend. I can still have “all the toys” without having to find the space. The kids love choosing their own toys, and they CAN, because there is no price tag regardless of the toy. Also, when I am sick of the toy, we can just take it back ... no more noisy train.

1.

2.

COFFEE!

3.

Second-hand kids clothes. My kids love dirt, mud, sand, paint etc and they LOVE it. I love knowing that they are enjoying it, so instead of me getting anxious about new clothing staying clean; I rather spend my money in second hand stores and let them get messy, while they can.

4.

My Thermomix. This has allowed us to keep making our food “from scratch”, with reduced sugar, without the added stresses that comes with cooking with kids – eg making relish/jam/etc with the fear of being distracted and burning it.

5.

Miniature trains – $2.50 a ride plus a picnic lunch and you have a cheap day out with hours of entertainment.

6.

Our pet chickens – the kids love cuddling Golidlocks and Teapot.

They love waking up each day to go and say good morning, have a cuddle and collect the eggs.

7.

Kids Cafes – I am lucky to be walking distance to Baby Lets Cruz.

Just five minutes of peace and a brownie is sometimes all I need.

8.

Washable dining chair covers.

Sometimes food and art is a whole body experience.

9.

My camera. This used to be for me to capture memories – now Miss 4 loves to capture her own.

10. A supportive local group of friends.

I’ve been very lucky to be involved with two big groups of parents – my Mother’s Group and Toy Library committee. They definitely keep me sane and ensure I know I am not alone.

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

AUTUMN 2017 29

Games and gadgets

h s u b e h t f o y t u a e b Books hold the

By Jade Glen ks AMANDA Tuohy’s childrens boo the from on irati insp r draw thei ges. stunning birdlife of the Yarra Ran e and tros Formerly a resident of Mon yed enjo hy Tuo Mount Evelyn, Ms visit her watching the birds that would garden.

“We loved living there at the foot out on of the Dandenongs. We looked re all the to the reserve, and that’s whe birds are.

I was “It probably goes back further; only the and girl little shy a really was thing that ever brought me joy in’s als.”

An image from The Scarlet Rob anim and s bird watching .

Gift Her appreciation of birdlife is jewel in the Forest. ons.

Images from Tommy Blue: A ryone evident in her delicate illustrati for children but they are for eve ght ribe the frogmouth and I thou desc little a of A self-taught artist, Ms Tuohy’s story the really.”

Tommy Blue tells colour how would I do that ... and then home in gouache paintings are full of small es pag e wren that loses its family and thos e writ Ms Touhy is now working on a to ded nee I when and beauty. t shor of on and finds itself in an unfamiliar se) ecti fires ntro coll the a (Mo lts, our book for adu one came and sat on Blue: Ms Tuohy’s first book Tommy ire and insp st. will fore es hop she and k that dus es at stori balcony lished A Jewel in the Forest was pub e it “It’s that age old tale, we all feel bring joy.

I was able to describe it becaus Black the by part in ired his Insp in 2. ing 201 in has the long n wre little e.” and the clos it; so e cam is k boo the s, “I would like to open the eyes Saturday bushfire rlet be loved, to be noticed. He to Sca rt The hea the k, to boo here nd ryw seco Ms Touhy’s hearts of people eve dedicated to Marysville. searching and comes across around in’s Gift, is dedicated to the r goes Rob ove es stori wonder and beauty that is all t shor our ten all writ bat, ays wom “I’ve alw an echidna, a ges and features all Ran ong den Dan . said ts on she wan sed us,” the years and always focu g while beautiful fauna. He desperately the birds she enjoyed observin onal, es Amanda Touhy’s books and stories that I want to be inspirati to be accepted and then com . living in the area rts. Life ous shops ny taw the , king st fore the ss stories that touch people’s hea illustrations are for sale in vari acro books, but the ’s dren love I chil and are s y the time nd “The at arou cult ions can be very diffi frogmouth. and tourist destinat e a depth to them so they e when hav eon ges. es som Ran stori in ong tion den reac Dan hed the reac ng and I ey is seei Yarra Vall “The amazing thing buy them ,” are for adults as well. People to had I n they read something uplifting whe story the a part of Ms Tuohy said.

Great NEW

reads

FOLLOWING on from their awardwinning picture book, The Underwater Fancy-dress Parade – dream team Davina Bell and Allison Colpoys’ second collaboration Under the Love Umbrella was released in March this year.

Under the Love Umbrella is a stunning celebration of the joy and comfort that love can bring – wherever we roam in the big, wild world.

The story celebrates the enduring love between parents and children and features exquisite spot colour illustration, reflecting a range of backgrounds and family constellations.

Readers are encouraged to ponder ‘who’s under your love umbrella?’

For more information visit scribepublications.com.au.

30 AUTUMN 2017

CINNAMON Stevens – Crime Buster is a hot new book guaranteed to spark your child’s interest in reading.

And what’s more – it has a great local feel to it.

Set in an imaginary township called Mount Dandenong, which is a mixture of many hills locations, 12-yearold Cinnamon dreams of becoming a super-sleuth. When a classmate disappears during a school camp on Phillip Island, she leaps at the chance to investigate. But ... does Cinnamon have the Nerves of Steel necessary to solve this dark and dangerous crime?

Will her Wing Chun Kung Fu skills protect her? And can she survive Year 7 without her very best friend?

Written by Monbulk’s Pauline Hosking, with illustrations by Kat Chadwick, this fun, adventure/mystery story is for readers 10 plus. It has been favourably reviewed by Magpies magazine and recently added to the Premier’s Reading Challenge booklist for Grades 5 and 6.

This great book is available from Dennis Jones Distribution, The Book Depository, Booktopia, the Belgrave Book Barn and all good bookstores. The ebook is available from Amazon, Port Campbell Press and the Apple ibook store. www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

autumn activiti es Arts and entertainment Every Friday and Sunday afternoons, acoustic music at Ferntree Gully Hotel, 1130 Burwood Highway, Ferntree Gully.

13 April-28 May, 10am-4pm, Patchwork Quilt Exhibition, Warratina Lavender Farm, Wandin North.

16 April-12 May, ‘Red-50 Canvas’, Arvys Gallery, Olinda.

5

Hannie Rayson – Hello Beautiful, The Memo, Healesville, www.culturetracks.info

7

5

Wallaby Wednesdays at Healesville Sanctuary, Healesville, www.zoo.org.au/healesville/ whats-on/wallaby-wednesdays

7

Craft Market Australia, 9am-2pm, Yarra Glen.

13

Sensory Fiddle Rug Exhibition for People with Dementia, Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead, Wandin North.

13

St Andrew’s Community Market, www.standrewsmarket.com.au

6-30 Papermakers Creativity Exhibition, Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead, Wandin North.

Healesville Community Market, River Street Car Park, Healesville.

7

The Angels, York on Lilydale, Mount Evelyn.

8

A Day on the Green: Cyndi Lauper, Blondie and The Clouds, Rochford Wines, Coldstream, rochfordwines.com.au

13

Country Market at Mont De Lancey, Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead, Wandin North.

14

March

8

Country Market at Mont De Lancey, Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead, Wandin North.

Belgrave Big Dreams Market, 9am-2pm, Belgrave.

25

Rhythm and Blues on Puffing Billy, Puffing Billy Railway, Belgrave.

20

8

St Andrew’s Community Market, www.standrewsmarket.com.au

St Andrew’s Community Market, www. standrewsmarket.com.au

25

St Andrew’s Community Market, www.standrews.com.au

21

9

Belgrave Big Dreams Market, 9am-2pm, Belgrave.

Eltham Craft Market, 8.30am-1pm, Alistair Knox Park, Eltham.

25

Celebrate Mooroolbark, Red Earth Community Park and Mooroolbark Community Centre, Mooroolbark.

21

9

Papermakers Exhibition at Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead, 10am-4.30pm, Wandin North.

Healesville Community Market, Coronation Park, River Street, Healesville.

21

Empyrean Melbourne Ballet Company, Burrinja Cultural Centre, Upwey.

The Yarra Valley Regional Food Group Farmer’s Market, Yarra Glen.

15

St Andrew’s Community Market, www.standrewsmarket.com.au

21

Emerald Craft and Produce Market, Emerald.

26

Ecotopia Earth Festival, Yarra Junction Parklands, Yarra Junction.

16

Eltham Craft Market, 8.30am-1pm, Alistair Knox Park, Eltham.

27

St Andrew’s Community Market, www.standrewsmarket.com.au

26

Sprout Fest, Adams Farm, Coldstream.

16

27

26

Kinglake Produce and Artisan Market, Kinglake.

Healesville Community Market, Coronation Park, River Street, Healesville.

Dirty Deeds – ACDC Tribute, York on Lilydale, Mount Evelyn.

31

Skyhigh Regional World’s Longest Lunch Mount Dandenong, SkyHigh Mount Dandenong, Mount Dandenong.

16

Emerald Craft and Produce Market, Emerald, www.facebook.com/emeraldmarket

June

16

The Yarra Valley Regional Food Group Farmer’s Market, Yarra Glen.

3

St Andrew’s Community Market, www.standrewsmarket.com.au

22

Adam Brand, York on Lilydale, Mount Evelyn.

3

Kallista Community Market, Kallista.

St Andrew’s Community Market, www.standrewsmarket.com.au

4

Warburton Artisan Market, Warburton.

4

Warrandyte Riverside Market, Warrandyte.

Gembrook Market, Gembrook.

4

Healesville Community Market, River Street Car Park, Healesville.

13 May-16 June, ‘Reunion – The Tuesday Painters’, Arvys Gallery, Olinda.

25

31

Regional Long Lunch Gembrook – A Chef, A Train and a Lemon Tree, The Independent Gembrook, Gembrook.

April 1

St Andrew’s Community Market, www.standrewsmarket.com.au

1 1

22 23

29-30 Victorian Rollerski/Skike Championships, Lake Mountain Alpine Resort, Marysville.

4

Craft Market Australia, 9am-2pm, Yarra Glen.

Kallista Community Market, Kallista.

29-30 Marysville Motoring Expo, 8am-4pm, Marysville.

10

Yarra Valley Beer and Cider Festival, Lilydale Showgrounds, Lilydale, yarravalleybeerandciderfestival.com.au

29

Prince Tribute Show, York on Lilydale, Mount Evelyn.

10

St Andrew’s Community Market, www.standrewsmarket.com.au

11

Belgrave Big Dreams Market, 9am-2pm, Belgrave.

11

Queen Tribute Show, York on Lilydale, Mount Evelyn.

1-2 Yarra Valley Wine and Food Festival, Rochford Wines, Coldstream.

30

St Andrew’s Community Market, www. standrewsmarket.com.au The Great Train Race, Belgrave, race@pbr.org.au

May

1

Lotus Flower Season, Blue Lotus Water Garden, Yarra Junction.

1

Experience Yesteryear at Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead, Wandin North, www.montdelancey.org.au

1

Warrandyte Riverside Market, Warrandyte.

2

Warburton Artisan Market, Warburton.

2

Healesville Community Market, River Street Car Park, Healesville.

6-7 Kellybrook Cider Festival, Kellybrook Winery, Wonga Park.

2

Pumpkin Festival, Alowyn Gardens, Yarra Glen.

6

Warrandyte Riverside Market, Warrandyte.

2

Craft Market Australia, 9am-2pm, Yarra Glen, craftmarkets.com.au

7

Warburton Artisan Market, Warburton.

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

6

Kallista Community Market, Kallista.

6

St Andrew’s Community Market, www.standrewsmarket.com.au

17

St Andrew’s Community Market, www. standrewsmarket.com.au

6

Jazz on Puffing Billy, Belgrave.

18

6

The Seekers Story, 8.30pm, Ferntree Gully Hotel, moshtix.com.au

Eltham Craft Market, 8.30am-1pm, Alistair Knox Park, Eltham.

18

Healesville Community Market, Coronation Park, River Street, Healesville

18

The Yarra Valley Regional Food Group Farmer’s Market, Yarra Glen.

24

Man in the Mirror, York on Lilydale, Mount Evelyn.

24

St Andrew’s Community Market, www.standrewsmarket.com.au

AUTUMN 2017 31