Yarra Ranges Kids Spring 2017

THINGS TO DO & PLACES TO GO FOR FAMILIES

amazing real-life

reads WIN !

zoo PASSES

the

birds and the

bees

get

active!

IDEAS FOR the WHOLE

family SPRING 2017

A Mail News Group Publication

Air Action

Trampoline Centre Packed with lots of things for kids and family to do with more than 160 interconnected trampolines.

Hours Monday - Saturday 9am - 10pm • Sunday 10am - 7pm PubliC HolidAy Hours Hours Queens bday - 10am - 6pm school Holiday Fun July 1st-July 16th PriCEs 3-5yrs - $12 per jumper, per hour session (includes Air Action socks) 6+ - $17 per jumper, per hour session (includes Air Action socks) ‘Come in for a jump during school holidays for a chance to win a second hour FrEE. Each hour will have a lucky number to be guessed *conditions apply’

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We have party rooms available. our jumping sessions are on the o’clock for 1 hour, we encourage you to book online to avoid waiting on arrival - you must be 3yrs to jump at Air Action. you must wear our Air Action socks, lockers available, Café with coffee, snacks, cold drinks, lollies, ice cream.

Air Action trampoline centre is at the gateway to the yarra Valley. The indoor trampoline centre provides an outlet for people to relax, exercise and socialise in all weather conditions. The centre has activities for ages 3years old and up catering for all experience levels.

As stated in the name, “Air Action Trampoline Centre” is where it is at. Packed with lots of things for kids and family to do with more than 160 interconnected trampolines. Features include; Two dodgeball courts, a free jump area with over 70 connected trampolines, Three high wall climbs (various heights), Three foam pit lane entries and Three basketball slam dunk lanes. you’re never too old to enjoy these facilities, you can be a three-year-old novice or a budding aerialist, there is something for everyone. our friendly staff are always there to offer safety tips and show you a few moves along the way. if you do not fall into one of the previous categories and are looking for something for the kids to do why not enjoy a coffee, cold drink or snack from the café, while they enjoy the facilities provided. There is the availability for kid’s parties and corporate events, so why not come down and enjoy a great time while exercising and having fun.

238 Maroondah Hwy, Chirnside Park | PHONE: 9726 0666 Facebook: Air Action Trampoline Centre

Website: www.airactiontc.com.au Email: enquiries@airactiontc.com.au instagram: @airactiontc instagram pics: #airactiontc 2 SPRING 2017

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

about us . . .

real-life reads

spring this

HOW amazing is spring? Winter seems to drag on forever, and then all of a sudden the sun is out, the birds are chirping and the bees are buzzing.

If you’ve been contemplating how to approach the other ‘birds and the bees’ with your children, check out our feature on page 5 - we’ve got expert advice to help you navigate the tricky transition from childhood to adolescence.

If you are looking to shake off winter and get active again, we’ve got plenty of ideas to get the blood pumping.

Learn all about Edge Martial Arts on page 6, Sole Studios Pilates on page 13

and all about learning to ride a bike on page 12.

We’ve also got some great ideas for family day-trips - whether they are around the corner or a few hours’ drive, there’s sure to be something that tickles your fancy on page 32.

We’ve got plenty of real-life reads about local families. You can read about Yarra Glen’s Triple Zero Hero Lila Corbett on page 7, Mooroolbark Gymbaroo legend Margaret Tull on page 9 and some incredible birth stories.

Sharon Falconer’s baby Kaylee stayed put long enough for her mum to attend a sold-out Justin Bieber concert

on Pages 28-29 and baby Ginger was a sweet addition to the Mitchell family, thanks to the support of Yarra Valley Midwives on Pages 30-31.

You can win lots of prizes this spring too - check out the CFA colouring competition on page 26, and head to page 34 to win one of four family zoo passes.

Don’t forget to keep in touch with us on Facebook - we’ve always got exciting giveaways, local news and family friendly events to share.

Enjoy!

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 Jade Glen jade@yarrarangeskids.com.au Phone: 5945 0666 Advertising Tracey Aitken tracey.aitken@mailnewsgroup.com.au Phone: 5957 3700 / 0458 288 291 Creative Creative Services Manager: Chris Beale 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.

contents Cover

It’s Your Life Days out for dads Page 4 Patience in the time of turmoil Page 5 Teaching kids respect and confidence Page 6 Little steps up Page 7 Happy kids at Gymbaroo Page 9 Prams at the edge of tragedy Page 10

Health

Collective gift makes sense Page 16 Spring spouts for a healthy glow Page 16

Entertainment Gear up for an island adventure Page 17 Map Page 18-19

Education Flower mosaic serves as: Emblem for Ghilgai Page 21

Cycling for the whole family Page 12

Having fun with maths Page 22

Easing back into exercise post-baby Page 13

Fashion

Party Time Made for little hands (and busy mums) Page 15

Looking good for spring Pages 24-25 CFA Pages 26-27

Reality Bites Baby birth was hard labour Pages 28-29

Our young model shows off some of the latest spring fashions available at Billy Lidz – check out pages 24-25 for more.

Midwives made mum’s day Pages 30-31

Road Trips Spring in to these day trips Page 32

Craft Creating space, stars and galaxy Page 33

Books The Flying Desk Page 34

Competitions Win! Zoo passes Page 34

Calendar Burst into spring Page 35

THINGS TO DO & PLACES TO GO FOR FAMILIES

amazing real-life

reads WIN !

zoo PASSES

the

birds and the

bees

get

active!

IDEAS FOR the WHOLE

family SPRING 2017

A Mail News Group Publication

It’s

your life

Days out

dads fo r

By Jade Glen MOTHERS’ groups are a long-established key support in early parenting - but very little exists to help dads similarly transition in to parenthood.

Healesville Dads Group, established in June 2016, is helping fill that gap by getting dads and their young children together every month to play, make new friends and share their experiences.

“The dads’ group exists for us to share our experiences, make new friends and promote healthier, happier family lives.

Local dad Graeme started the group with support of Dads Group Inc, a group which aims to establish dads’ groups in council areas across Victoria.

“We’ve also had one ‘dads only’ event, which was a free brewery tour and tasting at a local brewery in Healesville, run by two dads.

The group started with three first-time dads whose partners had met through a Maternal and Child Health run mother’s group.

“Needless to say the brewery night was highly enjoyed by the dads!”

It has now expanded to include 20 dads - a diverse range of men who are united by their babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers.

“The age of dads ranges from mid-twenties, through to mid-forties.

We’ve even had a dad in his sixties who is involved in foster care,” Graeme said.

Tom and Natalie get up close to the chooks.

“These gatherings are about spending time with our children at a park, playing on the playground, and catching up with other dads in a similar life stage. Also it’s about giving mums a break!

“There is a real mix of dads. Most are full-time or part-time workers, and some are (stay-at-home parents) one or more days a week.”

The group meets monthly, with free coffee and hot drinks thanks to the support of its sponsor Beechworth Bakery, Healesville.

“Why should mums be the only ones who get to catch up with others over a coffee in the park?

Graeme said Healesville Dads Group was about connecting men with other men in a similar life stage.

“Having a child is a big life transition and, along with the joys and rewards, it is important to acknowledge that it can lead to social isolation and impact dads’ mental health.

“Whilst we don’t readily admit it, dads need to, and enjoy, sharing their experiences with other dads.

“When dads become more engaged with their local community, friends, children, partners and families, it all leads to better and more fulfilling lives.”

For more information, search Healesville Dads Group - DGI on Facebook or visit www.dadsgroup.org.

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The Yarra Valley is a great place to live and raise a family. I want to know how we can make it a better place.

Get in touch with me and let me know what matters most to you.

Enjoying a day out with dad.

Pictures: GREG CARRICK

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Shop 10, 38-40 Bell Street, Yarra Glen 3775 03 9730 1066 | cindy.mcleish@parliament.vic.gov.au

www.cindymcleish.com.au Authorised by Cindy McLeish MP, Shop 10, 38-40 Bell Street, Yarra Glen. This adver�sement paid from Parliament Electorate Office & Communica�ons Budget

4 SPRING 2017

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

It’s

your life

By Jade Glen PUBERTY is a challenging time - and hopefully it’s now a distant, if slightly unpleasant memory for you - but if you are reading this, chances are you will be soon reliving your puberty blues as you help your child navigate this transition from childhood to adolescence.

There’s a lot going on during puberty, with children experiencing a range of physical, emotional, sexual and social changes. Everything is changing, including the relationship between you and your child.

Alexandra Barbas, senior clinician at Relationships Australia Victoria, said some children managed these changes with ease while others struggled and some experienced significant turmoil.

The key to supporting your child through this turmoil was emotional acceptance, Ms Barbas said.

“One of the best ways to support a child during puberty is to provide them with reassurance and support that the changes they are experiencing are normal. It is important that parents stay involved and available if their child wants to talk.”

Ms Barbas said puberty was a time when parents became consultants to, rather than managers of their children.

“This does not mean that a parent’s role becomes defunct. Children still need to know that their parents are available to talk and offer support.

“Forming their own identity is a key developmental milestone for teens.

As part of that process, teens start to strongly value other relationship outside of their immediate family, and practice being assertive and autonomous. This does not mean that they still don’t need www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

Puberty is a time wh en chi ldren compare thei r body to th ose of thei r fri ends and may feel em barrassed or worri ed about the i r development... a good or close relationship with their parents. It is important that parents manage any feelings of rejection and hurt that might arise as a result of their teens developing strong relationships with others. It is also important that parents keep the door open and remain accepting of their teen.”

Hopefully you have already started the conversation about puberty and all its associated changes before the event unfolds - Ms Barbas said discussions about sex and bodies should be ongoing.

“Answer any questions teens may have about their bodies directly without overloading them with information. It is best to choose a time to talk where there are no distractions. Parents could start by asking their child whether they have been taught about puberty at school.

Their child may not want to share everything with their parents and may prefer to talk to someone else, like another family member, GP or a counsellor.

“When talking about their bodies and body parts, it is best to use the correct terms for body parts so that a child can feel comfortable when talking about their body. If parents hear their child

start to tell jokes about sex, that is a good time to ask questions such as “Are you noticing any changes in your body?” Providing children with books about puberty written for children may also be helpful.

“Puberty is a time when children compare their body to those of their friends and may feel embarrassed or worried about their development (uneven testes, menstruation, acne etc).

Parents can role model body acceptance and discuss with their children that bodies come in all shapes and sizes and that everyone develops at their own pace. If a child continues to be concerned about their development, then it may be helpful to make an appointment to talk to a GP.”

Top tips for

parents: ■ Acknowledge and praise your child for any achievements, efforts or positive behaviours.

■ You may benefit by educating yourself about parenting through puberty.

■ Choose your battles - if your teen wants to dye their hair, paint their fingernails etc, it is best to save their objections for issues like alcohol, drugs, smoking or permanent changes to their appearance (tattoos, piercings).

■ Look out for signs that your teen may be really struggling (skipping school, failing grades, talking or joking about suicide, substance use).

■ Set limits on the amount of time your teen spends online or in front of the television. Access to technology should be in public and limited after certain hours.

Ms Barbas said parents should also be accepting of their child’s need for privacy and get in to the habit of knocking before entering their room.

If you are looking for more advice to help relate your child or teenager, Relationships Australia Victoria (RAV) can help. For more information, call 1300 364 277 or visit www.rav.org.au.

RAV also has a website dedicated to supporting young people - visit www. connectedspace.com.au SPRING 2017 5

It’s

your life

Edge Martial Arts aims to build confidence and discipline in a fun environment. 171472 Picture: PETER DOUGLAS

Teaching kids

By Jade Glen EDGE Martial Arts fosters discipline, confidence and respect amongst its students - with a healthy dose of fun.

Amy Gardam’s father, Andrew Roberts, a black belt in many different styles of martial arts, founded the Mount Evelyn Dojo in 1989.

Amy, an instructor for the past 16 years and a fourth-dan black belt, is now at the helm after her father sadly passed away last November.

“He picked out bits from different styles and over the years we have added to it. We do a lot of weaponry, we do the Sword, the Sai and the longstick called Jo, and there are a few more in there as well.”

Amy said martial arts taught confidence and focus from an early age.

“Our youngest are three years old -

respect and confidence

we call them the Kinder Ninjas. They learn balancing, hand-eye coordination, and putting their hand up when they want to speak.”

“They are learning discipline. We practice what you would look like in class if we were paying really bad attention - and then I say now show me your good attention span.

“Classes are so fun but they are well-disciplined and structured, and because they are having so much fun they don’t realise they are actually learning these skills.”

Children progress to the Little Ninjas at age five, and the Warriors at age seven.

Amy said parents often enrolled their children to help them combat bullying.

“Probably about 30 per cent of children come in for that reason - they have been bullied, or they are being bullied. Parents want their children to have more confidence.

“It helps to build confidence elsewhere. Parents often notice at family functions or school events or something like that, their child doing something they wouldn’t have done before, that they are really starting to shine.

Amy said students were taught to diffuse situations.

“You are calmer, you can diffuse (a situation), and you can walk away.

You are not tough jumping in a fight - it takes more strength in yourself to walk away.

“I had one kid jump in and save another kid from being bullied - he put his hands up, open hands, and said stop, leave my friend alone now. And the bully walked away.

“We talk about anti-bullying and we also talk about stranger danger. We want the kids to stand up to bullies and say stop and then go and get the appropriate help. With stranger danger we teach them to say no don’t touch

me, police, fire, then use martial arts to get to safety.”

All students have an opportunity to grade once a term.

Amy said Edge Martial Arts had a high retention rate and many parents were also students.

“We really are a fun, friendly family school,” Amy said.

Common martial arts terms explained Dojo: Training centre (the Japanese call it ‘the place of the way’) Gi: Uniform Sensei: Teacher/Chief instructor Sempai: Assistant instructor Kyoshi: Founder of our school/head of style Honbu: Main school/main dojo

Mums and Dads!

Call Today for Details

9736 2919 6 SPRING 2017

Children’s Karate www.edgemartialarts.com.au Mt Evelyn, Chirnside Park, Woori Yallock

12358801-PB37-17

Get your child to become more confident and focused with Edge Kids Karate!

Trial 4 Weeks Classes for only $39.95 Plus Uniform

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

By Kath Gannaway “THE thing about little sisters ... they can amaze you, even if they’re younger than you.”

Seventeen-year-old Georgia Corbett’s little sister, Lilia, proved her amazingness in February this year when Georgia suffered a potentially lethal anaphylactic episode at their Yarra Glen home.

Lilia, 13, was recognised for her bravery and clear-thinking on 30 May when she was awarded a Junior Triple Zero Hero Award by the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA).

Lilia was one of 51 young people between five and 16 who were nominated by the ESTA operator on the other end of the line when they dialled triple zero for help.

Georgia, who suffers from a severe auto-immune disorder that causes anaphylaxis, was bringing in the washing when she started to feel she couldn’t breathe.

Their mother, Lee Callec, and 15-year-old sister, Sarah, were out so Lilia swung into action, getting Georgia her EpiPen and calling for an ambulance.

Lee was with Lilia when she accepted her award from Minister for Emergency Services James Merlino and met Daniel Robotham, the ESTA calltaker at the other end of the triple zero line.

They soon discovered they had more in common than their shared emergency. Daniel graduated from

little

It’s

your life

steps up Lilydale High School in 2011, the same school the girls attend.

any of what I said, I just did it for Georgia.”

Listening to the call was an emotional experience for them all.

While Lilia played down her hero status, Daniel was full of praise for her cool head and mature response.

“She was so brave ... everything that Daniel asked her, she was able to answer,” Lee said.

“I could hear Georgia in the background really struggling to breath, she was too sick to help in any way but Lilia was looking after her and answering all the questions.”

Georgia has been very ill during the past year requiring the use of the EpiPen numerous times, and hospitalisation 35 times since April last year.

“Lilia has helped me with that, watched me, listened to what I say on the phone when I ring triple zero, so she followed what I did,” Lee said.

For Lilia her response on the day was just what sisters do.

“It was in the moment, you need to do that to save her,” she said.

But reliving the experience was more difficult.

“I couldn’t listen back to all of it,” she said.

“It surprised me. I didn’t remember

“It’s always quite scary when you can hear someone in the background struggling to breathe at the start of a call.

“Hearing Lil’s voice, she was so calm and had the situation so under control already, my job was just to help her through until the ambulance arrived.”

He said that in the two and a bit years that he has been at ESTA, Lilia really stood out as someone who was more deserving of the award.

“I was on the phone with Lil for close to 20 minutes and in that whole time she might have asked once how long the ambulance was going to be ... so cool and calm.”

Daniel said in a job where not every call has a positive outcome, meeting Lilia was great.

“Finding out we went to the same school, putting a face to the name and being able to meet someone you’ve taken through a tough situation makes it all worthwhile,” he said.

Lilia, right, and Georgia.

Picture: ROB CAREW He said that kids are great role models when it comes to an emergency and he hoped the awards would trigger a response in parents to teach their children how to ring triple zero, including their phone number and address.

Lilia said the award was recognition for young people in general.

“It was nice for us kids to be seen as people who can do this stuff,” she said.

“And that anyone can do it.”

o w f d er adv l i w ! r e u e r n ture begins he Yo

Lake Mountain Cafe A beautiful, totally natural display of wildlowers begin blooming late September and continue right through Spring & Summer.

Green Season Opening Hours: Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday 9am - 4pm Guided wildlower walks will run during the wildlower season, dates and details at:

www.lakemountainresort.com.au 12359406-JV37-17

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

SPRING 2017 7

Happines

grows HERE KIDS’ PLAY AT THE GARDENS Tuesday 10am - 1pm September 12th, October 17th & 31st, November 14th & 28th and December 12th Join us near Target and kids can enjoy free activities like dancing, singing, craft and storytelling.

Discover the Best Fun For The Kids at Waverley Gardens

For our activity schedule or more details visit www.waverleygardens.com.au

8 SPRING 2017

12361091-CG36-17

Two custom built playgrounds located in the Food Court and near Target.

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

It’s

your life

happy kids at Gymbaroo

LOCAL Gymbaroo and Mooroolbark legend Margaret Tull is retiring after 32 years with the Gymbaroo movement.

Margaret eventually took on her own franchise at Camberwell from 1999 to 2003.”

Marion Stott, franchise manager at Gymbaroo Mooroolbark, said Margaret’s kind, calm and patient persona meant she was dear to everyone.

Margaret was selected to travel to China for six months in 2004, where she was instrumental in helping establish the first Gymbaroo centre in Beijing.

There are now more than 60 Gymbaroo centres in China.

“When Toddler Kindy Gymbaroo established their second centre at Mooroolbark in 1984, Margaret looked after my daughter so I could be the assistant two mornings a week. The next year sessions expanded into the afternoons and this is where Margaret’s journey with Gymbaroo began.

“During the early years, Margaret was instrumental in helping establish and support several other centres; assisting for many years at Glen Waverley, Forest Hill and Bulleen/ Doncaster.

“Then after having trained and gained a wealth of experience,

Margaret said her time in Beijing was a rich experience full of lasting impressions - and that children were the same everywhere.

Upon returning from Beijing, Margaret was delighted to hear she was to be a grandmother. Now she has seven grandchildren, all of whom she believes have benefited greatly from attending Gymbaroo.

“The pure joy of working with the parents and their children, by providing this enhancing program that nurtures each natural stage of development, is just so rewarding,” she said.

While Margaret will no longer be running sessions, she will still be a familiar face - she will be attending weekly Gymbaroo with her youngest grandson and Babyroo with her new granddaughter.

Marion Stott, Margaret Tull, right, with Floyd, 2, mum Melanie Tull and Floyd’s new sister Gabby at Moorolbark Gymbaroo.

Margaret Tull with Floyd, two.

Pictures: ROB CAREW

Margaret Tull.

GymbaROO Mooroolbark 12361161-CG37-17

“I first met my wonderful friend Margaret Tull when taking our children to Lancaster Preschool in 1978.

Margaret and Michael had chosen to move to Mooroolbark in 1975 to live and bring up their three children,” Marion said.

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Mooroolbark Community Centre All Enquiries Welcome – Marion 9726 8740 E: Mooroolbark@gymbaroo.com.au • www.gymbaroo.com.au www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

SPRING 2017 9

It’s

your life

prams at the edge of

tragedy

By Derek Schlennstedt

released in a bid to raise awareness about the continuing trend.

METRO Trains Melbourne has released disturbing footage of parents losing control of their prams at train stations, resulting in them rolling over the edge of the platform and landing straight onto the tracks.

The shocking spate of infant-related pram incidents is enough to convince Metro to devote a new campaign with the simple message ‘Turn, Brake, Hold’.

Amid the footage is a grandmother or carer who parks her pram on the Upper Ferntree Gully train station at a slight angle.

Within seconds the three-wheeled stroller rolls towards the tracks, and before the lady can react it drops over the edge onto the train tracks - the child is seen unharmed after the lady struggles to lift it from the tracks.

This is only one video of a dozen that Metro Trains Melbourne has recorded in the last nine months and has now

Rob Guest, Metro director of Customer Experience, said it was important for parents to pay close attention while at train stations and to utilise the pram’s safety mechanisms.

“It’s easy to be distracted as a parent, but it’s crucial to be vigilant around trains,” he said.

“It’s a simple message, but a really important one: turn, brake and hold your pram.

“When at the station, turn your pram parallel to the tracks, apply the brake, and always hold onto your pram.

Each year hundreds of different

prams come onto the market and Jason Chambers, general manager from KidSafe said that all models sold by Australian retailers were required to meet strict safety guidelines which require them to have a wrist strap, red brake handle and five-point harness.

Jason advised that the safety mechanisms should be used at all times and noted that it doesn’t take a steep incline for prams to roll.

“The footage shows it can happen really quickly and that it can just be that quick turning away for a split second.

“Prams don’t require a steep slope for it to roll, even in windy conditions they can begin to roll,” he said.

“The safety mechanisms should be used not just for train stations but parks, playgrounds, near roads, when people are walking, and near any hazardous areas.”

In response to the trend of prams rolling off train stations, Metro has announced that it will provide new emergency buttons that will be put in place at all of its stations to provide real-time assistance to anyone facing such predicaments in the future.

the little things ...like caring teachers who know when a child needs a little extra attention and welcoming staff who are happy to help when a parent has their hands full of bags, toddlers and towels.

At Kingswim, we know it’s the little things that make all the difference.

Let us find the perfect time for your FREE introductory lesson

kingswim.com.au Chirnside Park • Wantirna

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10 SPRING 2017

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

Healesville Walk Pharmacy Open 7 Days a Week Not Your Average Pharmacy Extensive Vitamin Range Natural Herbal Remedies Organic Skin Care Natural Baby Products Sun Care Range Designer Fragrances Brands Home Wears & Gift Sunglasses & Hats Kids Toys & Gifts Instant Digital Photo Medication Compounding Free Blood Pressure Checks Free Heart Checks 12358863-JV37-17

ALL YOUR BABY NEEDS

Emergency prescription can be arranged if you run out while away Healesville Walk Shopping Centre (next to Coles) Moroondah Highway Healesville

5962 4165

Soul Pattinson Chemist www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

SPRING 2017 11

cycling for the

whole family

By Jade Glen THE weather is getting warmer and the days are getting longer - it’s time to bust out the bike and explore some of the great trails the Yarra Valley has to offer.

Cycling is something the whole family can enjoy together, and kids can get a taste for bikes almost as soon as they start walking, said co-owner of Yarra Valley Cycles, Alex Swann.

“Generally, once they start walking they can use a balance bike - so quite often at the 12-18 month mark,” he said.

Balance bikes range in size from the very small, for the tiny tots, to the bigger 14-inch wheels suited for three to four-year-olds.

“Once they are confident, once they’ve been on a balance bike for 12 months or so, they can get on a pedal bike around two-and-a-half.

“If they have been pretty confident on the balance bike they might be able to jump on without training wheels.”

Spring is a great time to teach kids to ride and Mr Swann said that, for most, it was a pretty simple exercise.

“It’s best to get them on to a grassy kind of area with a really gentle downward slope - they can roll a little easier.

“Just give them a little push, run along behind them and they normally just take off,” he said.

Once they’ve got the hang of it, some daredevil pre-schoolers can even dip their toes in to the world of BMX racing, with full-face helmets, protective gear and bikes available for kids as young as three-years-old.

Bikes are designed to accommodate quick-growing kids, with adjustable

Just give them a little push, run along behind them and they normally just take off... seats that can be lifted as the rider grows taller.

Mr Swann said it was time to look at upsizing once the seat was at its highest setting.

Families with very young children can also look at seats that attach to an adult bike or trailers that are towed behind.

Yarra Valley Cycles offers a hire service for those who want to try before they buy and a service department if customers need someone to tinker with that bike that’s been collecting dust in the shed.

Mr Swann said cycling was a great family activity for getting everyone outside and active.

“The Warburton Trail, in particular, is fairly accessible; it’s a really safe place to ride.

“There’s plenty of places to stop and have lunch on the way, so it’s a great half-day or full-day outing.”

Ash Swann, with Peggie in his passenger seat, and Blake, centre, and Lucy, front.

Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD) If you would like more informaƟon, contact your local Australian Hearing centre: Australian Hearing Lilydale (03) 9738 8400 www.hearing.com.au/lilydale

Australian Hearing Knox (03) 9837 8100 www.hearing.com.au/knox

Australian Hearing Croydon (03) 9237 4100 www.hearing.com.au/croydon

12350765-CB25-17

12 SPRING 2017

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

easing back into

exercise post-birth Pilates instructor Leigh Ramage says hello to baby Eden while mum and Pilates instructor Alison works out.

Pictures: ROB CAREW

By Jade Glen

is a big thing, and it can be quite challenging,” Leigh said.

REFORMER Pilates is a great way to ease back in to exercise and build up your strength post-baby.

“The reformer machine is a piece of equipment originally designed by Joseph Pilates back in the early 1920s.

It is based on resistance and spring predominately, requiring you to use your main core muscles throughout every exercise, which gym work tends not to do.

Local pilates devotee Leigh Ramage, owner of the newly-opened Sole Studios in Lilydale, has introduced a mumsand-bubs class to help mums try reformer pilates and socialise, all with their baby in tow.

Leigh said the class, run by pilates instructor and personal trainer Alison, would allow new mums to try reformer pilates under the close watch of an expert, with classes capped at six to allow for personalised tuition.

Alison has a young baby herself, and pre-crawlers are welcomed in the class whether in a bassinet or on a mat next to mum.

Leigh said reformer pilates was a lowimpact exercise suitable for everyone, from those with old netball or running injuries to the super-fit or those in their senior years - her oldest regular client is 75.

“Even if you are a gym junkie, you will feel muscles you haven’t felt before,” she said.

“Everyone can have a chat and go at their own pace.”

The reformer machine can also help users improve their form on the mat.

Leigh said reformer pilates was good for building the upper body strength required for constantly lifting heavier babies and toddlers in and out of cots, car seats and high chairs.

“Similar principals apply (to mat pilates) but it’s quite different using the reformer.

“Once you get the hang of it, you fall in love with it.”

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“Getting back into fitness post-birth

“Once you’ve gotten the OK from your doctor, you are ready to start.

We can accommodate for a lot of postnatal issues, such as abdominal separation, and smaller class sizes will make it easier to address those issues.

“Your baby is going to grow pretty fast, and grow pretty heavy, so it’s important to make sure everything is working OK. Your back has some of the weakest muscles in your body, and reformer pilates is a good way to help connect those muscles.”

Reformer pilates is the perfect postnatal exercise for new mothers.

Reformer Pilates 5 Sessions for only $55 (New Client offer, valid for use for 2 weeks from first booked session) *conditions apply

Alison with baby Eden. www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

2/329 Main Street Lilydale, 3140 www.solestudios.com.au | E: mail@solestudios.com.au SPRING 2017 13

Children’s Pamper Parties We bring the party to you

Mention this Ad when you book and your birthday girl gets pampered for free!!

Packages start from $200 Teen Makeup Workshops and Ladies Pamper Packages Now Available www.glamtribe.com.au | M: 0448 667 636 Follow us on Facebook and Instagram 12360829-DJ37-17

14 SPRING 2017

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

Maria, left, and Lauren at Littlecinos Play Centre. Picture: ROB CAREW

Made for

little hands

(and busy mums)

party time

By Jade Glen PARTIES for toddlers and pre-schoolers are a breeze at Littlecinos Play Cafe.

introduced story time to Littlecinos on Tuesdays and Fridays, leading a lively session of stories and songs.

The Lilydale cafe is designed for little people and their parents, with a children’s play area catering exclusively to the under-five set.

“I am the story-teller, and the singer and performer. I try to keep it interactive, with puppet books or pop-up books, things that draw them in. It’s brand new and really taking off,” she said.

Owner Jessica Savoia said the cafe, a local fixture for the past three years, was unique in that it specialised in little people.

During the week Littlecinos is a popular cafe for parents and mothers groups, with room for prams and all the baggage associated with little kids.

“The kids’ area has a lot of soft play, room for crawlers and things like that.

A lot of role play, dress ups, a little supermarket, a kitchen and nursery play area,” she said.

“We have a lounge area with a mat so babies can roll around on the ground, a large table off the side which seats up to 10, and a lot of space for prams,” Jessica said.

“At other places like play centres, you find the little ones can get bullied by the older kids.”

Jessica, mum to two-and-a-half-year old Macy and 11-month-old Archie, took over the business recently.

“The cafe offers coffee, baked goods, sweat treats and lunch things like toasted sandwiches, yoghurt, little sandwiches, a good range of allergy friendly food, and we also sell food pouches.”

In a stark turn-around from her previous career in insurance, she has

On weekends the cafe is available for exclusive party hire.

Food made for little fingers.

“It’s fully catered for the kids. The base package includes fruit kebabs, popcorn and fairy bread, a choice of three hot foods. The kids are set up in the kid area with their own tables.

“Parents can bring in their own cake, and we offer food platters and add-on options for the adults - we keep the cafe open for the adults as well.”

Open Monday - Friday 9.30am - 3.30 pm Bookings Recommended Weekends for Private Parties $7.50 entry for over 12 months old, Free for under 12 months with a drink purchase

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Ever walked into a place that is just perfect for a little play? Now you can...

LittleCinos! LittleCinos is a purpose built play cafe designed for 0-5 year olds with everything from soft play areas for little ones to role-play kitchens, dress ups and even a fire station. So bring your little ones along, take a break and have a coffee and maybe even a cheeky cake while your little ones play in a safe and stimulating environment. Imagine. Discover. Play.

Jessica Savoia Owner & Manager

117 Beresford Rd Lilydale

For bookings phone: 9738 7610 www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

SPRING 2017 15

party time

Collective gi ft

makes sense

By Jade Glen IF YOU have a couple of kids - or maybe just one with a sparkling social life - chances are you are heading to a child’s birthday party every other weekend.

You’ve probably had your fair share of last-minute trips to the shops, searching for a gift for a kid that you don’t know that well, only to find that another guest has brought the same present.

Faced with this problem, two enterprising mums- sick of wasting money on cheap, underwhelming gifts - developed a website to help parents pool their resources and buy one top-notch present.

Julie Tylman and Ali Linz, a former

ve a H

banker and marketing strategist respectively, have seven kids between them - including a set of twins each - and came up with the concept of grouptogether.com.au after meeting for coffee in 2014.

“We were exhausted from the driving, parking, buying, wrapping gifts, drop offs and pick-ups involved in attending kids parties,” Julie said.

“We were also gob-smacked at the amount of money we had spent only to find out that the birthday kids already had the gifts, were given multiple copies of the gifts or didn’t love them.”

Julie was also influenced by one of her own children’s milestone birthdays, on which he received six sets of headphones, five mini speakers and 10 bottles of aftershave.

a

It’s about mindful consumption; grouping together for one gift that’ll be valued. (There is) less waste from unwanted gifts, packaging, petrol and time. It’s better all round,” she said.

To get started, the website organiser answers a few questions, writes a brief message about what they are collecting for and invites friends. The website then emails a link to all the invitees and tracks contributions,

for a h ealth y g low 12360063-ACM37-17

y a d h birt Y! T R A P

le

1. Remove any tough ends and browning outer leaves from the sprouts. Using a sharp knife, cut the sprouts in half, then slice thinly.

Place into a large bowl.

■ 2 tbsp vegetable oil

face p ainting balloo n twis ting jumpin g cast le stilt wa lking

a N extr

AD someth D O in g

and mo

Method:

■ 8 Brussels sprouts ■ 2 tbsp dried cranberries

$25 f o r e x t ra p a rt ic i p a n t s Aerials such as trapeze, tissu and aerial ring Acrobatics, pyramids and tumbling.

Manipulation skills such as hula hoops, juggling, and plate spinning Balance skills such as tightwire and rolla bolla

INGREDIENTS: Vinaigrette:

o u r p a rt y ro om t o e n j o y f o o d a n d c a k

WE OFFER:

Want to get the kids eating their Brussels sprouts?

Meg White, from Cooking 4 Kids, has you covered with this Honey Mustard Brussels slaw - a fresh take on an old favourite perfect for spring.

Honey M ustard Brussels slaw

e op a 1.5 h o u r wo r ks h op fo r 8 p YO) e (B

+30m i n s in

Ali said grouptogether was also about encouraging mindful giving.

re!

■ 2 tbsp parmesan cheese, finely grated ■ 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar ■ 1 rash bacon ■ 1.5 tbsp honey ■ Splash olive oil ■ 2 tsp Dijon mustard ■ 2 tsp wholegrain mustard ■ 1/4 tsp crushed garlic ■ Salt and white pepper

It’s not just for kids! We do adult birthdays and hens parties too!

Parties are available on Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons

Let's chat to see how we can make your party a memorable one!

Contact Steve:

parties@ruccis.com.au | 0439 449 505

Factory 5, 130-132 Bayield Rd East, Bayswater North ruccis.com.au 16 SPRING 2017

politely reminds those who have forgotten, adds messages to the card, transfers gift funds and provides a custom thankyou message.

The group card, a keepsake with friend’s photos and messages, is emailed at the same time and can be shared, saved and printed.

While asking other parents to pool their money could be a sensitive topic, Julie and Ali said parents were increasingly embracing the concept.

“For those still unsure, we provide sample text that can be used on invitations that introduce the concept and make clear there’s no obligation to participate. We also made it easy to donate a portion of the gift money to charity which is a great way of introducing kids to the idea of charitable giving.”

spring sprouts

S U C R CI

$220 fo r

Describing this as a light-bulb moment, she wanted to find ways to cut the waste and replace it with one great gift the birthday child will truly love, a card that’s worth keeping and a small donation to share their good fortune with others.

2. Cut bacon into small pieces, place into a small bowl. Heat a splash of olive oil in a frying pan on the stove top over a medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until golden and crispy. Remove and drain excess fat from the bacon, allow to cool.

3. Add the cranberries and parmesan cheese to the sprouts, mix well using your hands to combine.

4. Add the cooked bacon and toss again to combine.

5. Vinaigrette: In a jar combine vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon and wholegrain mustards, garlic and a pinch of salt and pepper. Screw the jar lid on tightly, then shake really well to combine all ingredients.

6. Pour the vinaigrette over the slaw ingredients and toss well to coat all of the ingredients.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

PHILLIP ISLAND FEATURE

Entertainment

Gear up for an

island adventure THE September school holidays are a great time to herald the arrival of spring, and Phillip Island Nature Parks has some wonderful free activities on offer as well as some discounted ticket bundles to make the most of your visit to the island.

The little penguins at the Penguin Parade are getting right into the swing of things. For those penguins still looking for love, the males have renovated their burrows in an effort to attract the attention of the opposite sex. Nature Parks’ researchers have reported that many burrows already have two very podgy penguins inside, busily preparing for the breeding season. We should start seeing the first of the eggs very soon, leading to some very chubby and fluffy chicks. They don’t stay fluffy for long though, as chicks usually only take between eight and 11 weeks to fledge and find their own way in the world.

The male koalas are certainly thinking about breeding as well, as they start to develop their pungent aroma that is meant to attract the ladies. The rangers at the Koala Conservation Centre tell us it’s not the best smell, and so far the female koalas don’t seem too thrilled about it either, but it’s only early days in the koala world, so hopefully

we will be seeing some wonderful little koala joeys in the near future.

There can’t be anything much cuter than the sight of a baby lamb or highland cow frolicking in the fields, and it won’t be too long until Churchill Island Heritage Farm is home to some brand new faces of the baby variety.

The ducks, geese and chickens don’t want to miss out, so they may well make their own contribution to the farm’s animal population in the near future as well.

on some great free school holiday activities like Koala Prowls, Rockpool Rambles, Kite Workshops and Turn the Tide Beach Discovery sessions. Come and join the Rangers for a fun session before the evening Penguin Parade and find out how you can help save our

seabirds and other marine wildlife by blowing bubbles instead of balloons.

For more details on the 4 Parks Pass and the school holiday free activities program, visit www.penguins.org.au and start planning your visit to Phillip Island.

You can visit all three of these wonderful locations at a heavily discounted rate when you purchase a Phillip Island Nature Parks ’4 Parks’ Pass. In addition to the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island Heritage Farm, the 4 Parks Pass also entitles you to entry to the fun and immersive Antarctic Journey at the Nobbies Centre. This exciting attraction offers hands-on fun, interactive activities and a state-of-theart multimedia experience as visitors embark on a virtual journey to the frozen continent, complete with augmented reality experience to reach out and stroke a seal or pat a penguin.

As if all of this wasn’t enough, the Rangers at the Nature Parks are putting

Promotion commences 1/1/17 Bookings Essential

There’s lots to see and do at Phillip Island Nature Parks this spring.

9736 4000 Cnr York & Swansea Roads Mt Evelyn

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Your wildlife playground ©h heckepics pics / PINP pic P

Experience Phillip Island’s unique attractions

PENGUIN PARADE Am A maz azin in ing ng ne new w viiew win ng opti tion o s now on no ow avai avvai a laabl be

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

SPRING 2017 17

Ghilgai Steiner School Ghilgai strives for academic excellence in a caring and supportive environment, a joyous education that nourishes head, heart and hands. Quality teaching, inspired curriculum, strong effective behaviour code.

A sanctuary for childhood.

Enquiries/Tours Foundation to Class 6 / Playgroups Tel: 9761 8369 Website: ghilgai.com.au Email: edadmin@ghilgai.com.au Open Day: Sunday 26th November 10.30 – 3pm

Belgrave Heights Christian School provides a caring and diverse learning environment for children from Kindergarten through to Year 12. Our dedicated staff are committed Christians who are passionate about teaching and their faith. BHCS has an open enrolment policy.

We love to talk about our Kindergarten, academic opportunities, Positive Education emphasis, Year 9 Program, Discovery Centre, innovative technology, Environmental Program, and many other exciting elements of our School. We invite you to come and visit us for a tour!

Open Day: Sunday 26th November 10.30 – 3pm

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The school buildings are set in amongst beautiful grounds including wetlands, an orchard, veggie garden, dry creek beds and outdoor learning spaces. There is a strong emphasis on community and hospitality; we aim for all our families to feel this is a place where they belong.

www.bhcs.vic.edu.au

12362234-AM37-17

12362235-LB34-17

Little Yarra Steiner School Open Day & Fair

in acion; including subjects, programs, students and staf.

Saturday 21st October 10am-4pm Puppet Play Children’s Activities Market, Music & Food Preschool Information Session & School Tours Yarra Valley’s Independent K-12 Steiner School 205 Little Yarra Rd, Yarra Junction For info ph 03 5967 1953 or visit lyss.vic.edu.au 20 SPRING 2017

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

Education

flower mosaic serves as:

EMBLEM FOR GHILGAI The mosaic at Ghilgai was a wholeschool experience, with students of every age contributing.

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

emerge and flutter their beautiful wings.

Both these images speak of growth and change and new life possibilities, and so in a way this flower mosaic wall serves as an emblem for Ghilgai School.

The work pays homage to Sioux Dollman’s ‘Poppies’ and ‘The Water Wheel steps’ in Warburton. Dollman uses rich colour and her works have an inner rhythm and deep beauty.

Sioux Dollman was artist in residence at Ghilgai across 11 consecutive days and her warm vivacious nature inspired all who worked with her - parents, staff and children.

Even the younger ones were able to participate in the installation there were many opportunities to help - breaking and sorting tiles, gluing flowers in position, cleaning, grouting and polishing.

John Keats said: ‘A thing of beauty is a joy forever’ and Ghilgai seconds that. The mosaic will shine upon future generations and past students will be able to return and point out to their own children the flower that they made many years ago.

•฀Ghilgai฀School,฀at฀the฀foot฀of฀the฀Dandenong฀Ranges฀in฀the฀outer฀eastern฀ suburbs฀of฀Melbourne,฀provides฀Rudolf฀Steiner฀education฀for฀children฀ from฀playgroups฀through฀to฀Class฀6.฀The฀school’s฀secluded฀bush฀setting฀is฀a฀ sanctuary฀for฀childhood.

•฀We฀offer฀regular฀opportunities฀for฀parents฀to฀discover฀more฀about฀Ghilgai.฀ Please฀visit฀our฀website฀or฀contact฀us฀to฀ind฀out฀more.

Website:www.ghilgai.com.au email฀enrol@ghilgai.com.au

12361884-RC37-17

A BEAUTIFUL mosaic marks the entrance of Ghilgai School in Kilsyth.

This was a whole-school community project - every child in the school from Foundation to Class 6 made a mosaic flower for the wall, and the parent seed group raised funds for the mosaic.

The flowers are not botanical specimens, but brilliant flowers radiant with the joy of childhood, flowers that have been watered with imagination.

Tall flowers shelter smaller ones, little ones sparkle among the tall grasses to make a natural garden where each shines in its own special place.

It is an image of community working together, and represents Ghilgai’s striving to be a sanctuary for childhood.

The mosaic panel fills the entrance with beauty and the glowing background of yellows warm the space. The dancing flowers uplift the spirits of all who pass through there daily.

Flowers bloom and seed and then new flowers are born, butterflies go through an amazing process of change before they

Phone: (03) 9728 5819 SPRING 2017 21

Education

Having fun

maths wi th

By Jade Glen IF YOU think teaching maths to your child seems too hard, think again - Cire Children’s Services is making maths fun for the whole family.

Lysa Smart, Childcare Director and Rebecca Clark, Preschool Teacher from Cire Children’s Services Yarra Junction, have implemented some new familyfocused maths ideas thanks to The Smith Family’s Let’s Count Program, which provides mathematics training in the early years’ education sector.

“Often parents are apprehensive to approach maths with their children because they’ve had a bad experience themselves, or the feel they don’t have the knowledge,” Lysa said.

“But maths is incorporated in to everyday life.“ Lysa said it was important that learning was supported at home and that parents could help demonstrate maths concepts in very simple ways.

“One family counts letterboxes on the walk here.

“It’s about repetition. We encourage families to play those maths concept games at home, like snakes and ladders - or even when you go shopping with children to count the items you need, four bananas, three apples.”

At Cire, play-based maths concepts start in the nursery.

“They might have blocks out, and the educators are counting how many towers have been built,” Lysa said.

“In the toddlers’ room, they might be weighing up different things. In Kinder 3 we might look at how many cups of water you need to add to rice, and in Kinder 4 we are talking about what sinks and floats, how many rocks will make that tin sink, if you put in a cork will it sink or float.

Darcy and Holly.

“The children get really excited about it.”

Other activities include counting through games, puzzles, books and songs, measuring weight and height, constructing buildings, making play dough, creating shapes and patterns, sorting beads and much more.

Pre-school teacher Rebecca Clarke said the fun approach to everyday maths concepts ensured children had the best start.

“The Let’s Count program offered great ideas and opened my mind to thinking mathematically. I feel that I am now more prepared to use correct terms with the children and have a better understanding of how to prepare them for school.”

If you would like further information on Cire Children’s Centre or kindergarten program, contact 1300 835 235.

22 SPRING 2017

Declan builds a tower.

Jack and Luca learning maths concepts through play at Cire Yarra Junction.

Pictures: GREG CARRICK www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

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ย ย ย ฤบ1bu;ฤบou]ฤบ-ย ฦ ฦ ฦ ฦ ัถฦ ฦ ฦ ฦ ฦ Cire Services Incorporated - ABN 51 933 700 538 TOID 4150 - SCHOOL 2091 www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

12339819-CB12-17

SPRING 2017 23

THE sun’s just around the corner - it’s time to pack away the winter woollies and freshen up your child’s wardrobe with some on-trend spring threads.

Billy Lidz Berwick’s spring collection is in-store now, with some brand new labels on offer.

You can select some sweet cotton essentials for the little ones in your life from the new Jamie Kay range, and pick-up the ever-popular Salt Water Sandals or Superga trainers for growing feet.

SUDO and Munster Kids’s new spring collection blends skate, surf and street fashion to keep your kids cool in every sense.

Billy Lidz stocks clothes for babies, toddlers and children up to 14 years, as well as a great range of gifts, toys and accessories.

Christmas lay-buys are now available - four-week terms. Visit Billy Lidz in Blackburne Sqaure, Berwick, for more.

24 SPRING 2017

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

SPRING 2017 25

Name: _______________________________________________________________________

Age: ________________________

Phone Number: ______________________________________________________________________________________________

Colouring Competition, lots of prizes courtesy of CFA please drop off or post your entry to Mail News Group, 244 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville.

Competition closes 31 October 2017. Winners will be notified by phone.

26 SPRING 2017

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

SPRING 2017 27

reality bites

Baby

birth was

hard

labour

By Jade Glen FROM Justin Bieber’s Baby to the delivery of her second child, Sharon Falconer’s Labour Day long weekend was bookended by babies.

Impressively, Sharon was at a sold-out Etihad Stadium dancing along to Bieber’s hits at 39 weeks and five days pregnant, in the heat of late summer.

Building better futures

Sharon even filmed herself singing along to Bieber’s early classic, Baby.

for children with disabilities

12353216-DJ25-17

Do you want to talk to a professional about your child’s development or behaviour?

Noah’s Ark offers the following services for children with a disability or additional needs: ✓ Getting ready for Child Care, Preschool or School ✓ Supporting Inclusion

✓ Parent Connection and Support ✓ Parent Education ✓ Speaking and Listening

✓ Playing Together

✓ Supporting Positive Behaviour ✓ Coordination of Supports

“We were down the front and I recorded myself singing Baby at the concert. Everyone thought it was hilarious,” Sharon said.

“I booked when I knew I was pregnant - I knew if I couldn’t go I could definitely sell them. I was thinking she either needs to come two weeks early, or she needs to stay in until after the concert!”

Thankfully Sharon’s baby stayed put long enough for her to enjoy the concert, the second time she had seen Bieber.

It was that Sunday night that she started getting the feeling that it would be the last night of a family of three Sharon and David already have a son, Jackson, five.

“I felt like it was going to happen it was a full moon as well. When I had my son I also went in to labour on a full moon and I remember the midwife saying it was always busy when it was a full moon.

Living in Woori Yallock, Sharon wanted to inform her hospital, the William Angliss, early and factor in the 50-minute drive in to her decision on when to leave home.

“I was outside on the back deck and my husband heard me on the phone (to the hospital). I was trying to be really quiet, because I wanted him to rest, but he heard me speaking to the lady on the phone and he said what’s going on, it’s happening isn’t it.

“I said yes and he said well there’s no way I’m going back to sleep now.”

Sharon laboured at home while trying to ensure her son had his clothes, lunch and bag packed ready for Prep the next day.

“My dad was on standby because he is retired and lives five minutes down the road. I called him around lunchtime and said we are heading down to hospital.

“It was really emotional saying goodbye to Jackson for the last time before we became a family of four.

“By the time my dad got there I was like we are going straight away - I had to stop and breathe through those contractions.

“I was trying to labour at home for as much as I could, but it had got to that overwhelming feeling where you have to stop and shut the world out for those 10 seconds.”

We’re here to help Call 1800 819 140

“I looked up (the time of the full moon) and it was 1.50am, and I think I started my first slight contraction around 2am.”

Thankfully the couple encountered little traffic on their way to hospital, and they were soon up on the maternity ward for monitoring.

www.noahsarkinc.org.au

That Monday was Labour Day and, rather fittingly, Sharon was in labour.

“I didn’t have an internal straight away, they were just sussing out the contractions and monitoring me that way, and by the time I settled in my contractions had slowed down a bit.

“I tried to go back to sleep and thought I’d get some rest. I think I made it to maybe 5am and woke up again 28 SPRING 2017

and thought, I’m not going back to sleep. I was just hanging around trying to be quiet.”

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

reality bites “They said if you don’t pick up soon we will probably send you home. I was just thinking, I am not going home.

Then (the midwife) did an internal check and I was five centimetres already.

“She was surprised; she said I wasn’t really behaving like a woman who is already five centimetres. I was just getting through them OK, I suppose,” Sharon said.

After being admitted to a birthing suite, Sharon was asked about pain relief. She had an epidural during the delivery of her son, and requested the same again.

“I had the epidural and was like yep let’s do this. Then it got to really late afternoon, maybe 6-6.30pm, and the midwife said we’ve got to start pushing.

I was pushing for about half an hour on and off but the baby’s heart rate was struggling a little bit.

“The doctors came in to have a chat.

I had a vacuum extraction with my son, so when the doctor said forceps I was like OK, if it helps.

“Then she explained how she was going to do it in the theatre. Then I started panicking because friends of ours actually lost their baby in the same way, just a few months prior.

“The doctor said I know the couple you are speaking of - she had to try and reassure me. She said I’m not going to try and be a hero, I’ll try twice with the forceps and if those don’t work I’m going to try and get her out with a caesarean.”

Going down to theatre, Sharon had to leave her student midwife behind, as she was allowed only one support person in the operating room.

“It was such a shame, because she had been with me my entire

pregnancy,” she said.

“But she stayed the entire time I was in theatre and I saw her afterwards, which was nice.”

“By the time we got to theatre, the baby had retracted so straight away the doctor said ‘I can’t reach her anymore, we are going to do a caesarean’.

“I was nervous but it’s about the safety of the baby at that point - she can’t stay in any more.

“So I was getting prepped for that, which wasn’t too bad as I’d already had the epidural. My poor husband had to wait outside in his scrubs, just wondering what was going on.

“Once I was all prepped it happened so fast. I had the anaesthetist at my head, obviously, and he’s looking over and said ‘you’ll see your baby in about two minutes’. It was nice to have that feedback because you can’t see and everything happens so fast.”

Baby Kaylee Grace was born at 9.04pm, weighing a petite 2.85kg.

“David took her back to the room while I finished up but I remember because of the anaesthetic I was just shaking, I had to hold on to the pads because I was shivering so much.

“I remember them trying to pile up the warm blankets on me. In recovery I was still shaking. I was so thirsty, so they got me an icy pole, and it was the best icy pole of my life,” Sharon said.

Sharon was up and moving the next day and recovered well from the caesarean.

She said that Jackson has adjusted well to being a big brother.

“When he came to meet her he had the biggest smile on his face. He has been such a great little helper.”

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SPRING 2017 29

reality bites

The Mitchell family with Yarra Valley midwives Lisa Wraith, left, and Robyn Partington.

Pictures: PETER DOUGLAS

midwives made

' mum s

Private Midwives providing personalised pregnancy, birth and postnatal services for the women of the Yarra Valley and beyond. Our beautiful rooms are located in the main street of Healesville with easy access and parking available.

Book your Breathe Birth preparation for labour & birth classes online today www.breathebirth.com.au

day

By Jade Glen

12351992-HM25-17

WHEN Pauli Mitchell and her husband Ben fell pregnant with Ginger, their third child, there was no question in their minds: they would be hiring a private midwife.

www.yarravalleymidwives.com.au 0410 692 929 - 0448 866 655 30 SPRING 2017

With two prior emergency caesareans, Pauli knew her third birth would be a planned caesarean in hospital.

She also knew that she wanted the support of a private midwife, after engaging the services of a midwife for her second birth, an attempted HBAC (Home Birth after Caesarean).

“For my first birth I didn’t have one and in hindsight I would recommend every woman, if they can afford it, to have a private midwife,” Pauli said.

“I found going through hospital you feel more like a number than a person ... but it’s a beautiful experience to share with someone.”

The birth story of baby Ginger really begins with the birth of her eldest sister, Honey, in 2010.

“Basically I developed pre-eclampsia in labour. After 20 hours of labour, they did a test and the baby was stressed, then the meconium came, and then it was straight to theatre. The epidural hadn’t taken and they were cutting me open and I could feel it, so they had to put me under a general anaesthetic.

Because of the general my husband wasn’t allowed in the room with me.

It was a Code Blue, and the baby wasn’t breathing when she was born,” Pauli said. www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

reality bites Honey was in Intensive Care for only a short period of time, but the chaotic and stressful events of her birth were distressing for Pauli and Ben, compounded by the hospital saying it had lost its notes of the birth.

She also requested a caesarean lotus birth - a rare request, but one that was fulfilled by the hospital medical team.

A lotus birth is the practice of leaving the umbilical cord uncut after childbirth so that the baby is left attached to the placenta.

“I think there was definitely undiagnosed postnatal depression I wasn’t right for a long time. I was going over the what-ifs, and what could have been. There were a lot of emotions tied up with that birth. I was wondering whether to fight it (the hospital, for disclosure of full records) but I just didn’t have the energy to do that.”

“Apparently they (caesarean lotus births) don’t happen very often,” Pauli said.

“The placenta was only attached for four to five hours in the end - we just wanted to make sure it had stopped pulsing.”

When Honey was eight months old, Pauli fell pregnant again.

“My scar had adhered to my bladder.

In labour my pain was horrific and I just knew something wasn’t right.”

Together with her midwife, Pauli made the decision to go to her back-up hospital, Box Hill.

Despite the late change of plans, Pauli felt positive about the birth of her second daughter, Cherry.

“Having that caesar and being awake was sort of a healing process for me. It was healing knowing the pain I felt the first time was real, it was sort of confirmation that OK, this is what it is supposed to be like.

“My midwife was my advocate in hospital. I think sometimes in hospital you don’t know what you can say ’yes’ or ’no’ too. The midwives help you make educated decisions and to feel confident in those decisions.”

After Cherry was born, the family

relocated from Warrandyte to Healesville. When Pauli fell pregnant again, she began the search for a local midwife.

“I had two girlfriends in town that had been to see Yarra Valley Midwives; they came with good referrals so we contacted them. The minute I met Robyn that was it, I was like ’yep, we will be coming here’.”

Pauli said the midwives fully supported her decision to have a planned caesarean.

“I was probably thinking at one stage I could try a VBAC but I’m 40 now, and I thought I’m just going to play it straight and not take anything to chance.”

Because of her history, Pauli had antenatal appointments with Yarra Valley Midwives and Box Hill hospital.

“The girls went and got to use the Doppler and have a go at finding the baby’s heartbeat. I don’t think you get

that sort of thing in a hospital clinic.

It’s just a different environment.

“I would often come home from hospital (appointments) quite angry and emotional; then a few days later I would see Robyn and it would put my mind back at ease.”

Pauli and Robyn discussed the options for her upcoming birth and developed a birth plan.

On Wednesday 19 April, Pauli and Ben left their home at 5.30am to head to hospital for the planned birth of Ginger. Unfortunately they were told prior that only one support person could be present in the operating theatre, so Robyn could not accompany them.

During the long wait before her turn in theatre Pauli heard a Code Blue called, which was an unwelcome reminder of her first birth. But this experience would be entirely different.

Pauli, a former Shiatsu practitioner, requested tai chi music be played during the birth.

“They were amazing. They were here the day after I got home, the next day, and the day after that. Once I was up to it I went to see them.

“I’ve had text messages and things with Robyn; I think that’s just something that’s always going to be there.”

Pauli said she would recommend private midwives to any woman, no matter what birth she was planning.

“You’ve got someone who knows the system and knows about women I think it’s something the hospital system needs to get back to, treating women like people. They (women) are doing the most amazing thing, making people.

“It really reinforces what a special time this is, and what this journey is all about.

“Both Robyn and Lisa love babies and that shows in everything they do.

It’s a real calling to be a private midwife I think.”

CRYSTAL BROOK

12336224-ACM13-17

Knowing she wanted to avoid a hospital environment, Pauli engaged a private midwife and planned for a vaginal birth at home. But when the time came, something didn’t feel right.

Pauli stayed in hospital two nights before returning home, and was rapt with the post-birth support provided

by Yarra Valley Midwives.

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) • We welcome group bookings • New Off Leash Area

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 SPRING 2017 31

Grab the family, pack the car and hit the road this spring.

SPRING is the perfect time to shake off the winter blues and get out and about.

If you are in charge of planning the family road-trips, we’ve got your back check out our list of ideas and see what takes your fancy.

All you need to do is grab the kids, organise the snacks, load the car and hit the road.

Air Action, chirnside PArk Trampoline centre offering hours of fun for everyone aged three and up.

ArtVo, Melbourne Australia’s first immersive, 3D ’trick-art’ gallery. Priceless photos and unbelievable scenarios.

FunFields theMePArk, WhittleseA Water themepark with 23 rides and attractions - new rides this season for kids and families.

cherries and daffodils. Seasonal changes ensure the gardens are a delight all year around.

hedgend MAze, heAlesVille Explore a beautiful 20 acres of stimulating, fun-filled activities for all ages. Hedgend offers a creative environment that stimulates a fun personal journey for everybody.

lAke MountAin AlPine resort See the mountain in full bloom - Lake Mountain is offering guided wildflower walks on 20 and 27 November. There are also day walks on the mountain; a 12km walk will take you from the sub-alpine environment to alpine ash forest and pockets of rainforest, both of which survived the Black Saturday fires.

For more information visit www. lakemountainresort.com.au

nAtionAl rhododendron gArdens, olindA The National Rhododendron Gardens are host to brilliantly coloured blooms of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, 32 SPRING 2017

old Melbourne goAl, Melbourne Step back in time and walk the road to the gallows in a 19th century prison, be arrested in a modern-day Police Station or put yourself on trial in court

scienceWorks, sPotsWood Scienceworks is bursting with things to challenge curious minds of all ages.

Stroll among the gigantic machines that kept Melbourne running, enjoy electrifying theatre in the Lightning Room, let the little ones roam safely in enclosed spaces, wander through immersive exhibitions and drop in to deep space in the Planetarium.

soVereign hill, bAllArAt PhilliP islAnd nAture PArks, PhilliP islAnd Head out on a Wild Oceans EcoBoat Tour, check out the Penguin Parade, say hello to a koala at the Kola Conservation Centre, and take a trip to yesteryear at the Churchill Island Heritage Farm.

PuFFing billy, belgrAVe Old-fashioned family fun through the beautiful Dandenong Ranges - board at Belgrave and hop off for a picnic at Emerald Lake Park before your return journey.

Feel like a pioneer and step back in time to the Gold Rush - Sovereign Hill depicts Ballarat’s first 10 years after the discovery of gold there in 1851.

stAte coAl Mine, WonthAggi Over 40 years ago, a changing world finally caught up with the Wonthaggi State Coal Mine. When it opened in 1909 it was a vital part of the state’s infrastructure. The mine supplied coal for Victoria’s steam-driven railways and was so important that the town of Wonthaggi was built to house its workers. Guided tours run twice a day, seven days a week.

steAVenson FAlls, MArysVille An easily accessible 700-metre walk will give you a great view of one of Victoria’s highest waterfalls, which plummet 84 metres. The track is well lit at night for after-dark waterfall viewing.

Werribee oPen rAnge zoo, Werribee Get close to magnificent African wildlife on an off road safari. Be completely immersed in the sights, smells and sounds of the savannah as you travel across the Zoo’s open plains.

WilliAM ricketts sAnctuAry, Mount dAndenong Situated in a ferny glade in the Dandenongs, William Ricketts Sanctuary is a place of beauty and tranquillity, due both to the natural setting and the mystical sculptures half hidden among ferns along the pathways. www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

Creating

space,

stars galaxy AND

PLAYDOUGH is so easy to mak e at home, and this no-cook vers ion means kids can be involved mix ing and kneading the dough.

Most of the ingredients are prob ably already in your pantry and the addition of black food colo uring and glitter adds to the fun and provides an opportunity to talk about space, stars and the gala xy.

Mess factor: 4/5 - hands were a bit black and blue after kne ading the dough and the food dye left a stain on the benchtop - mag ic eraser removed it, but you may want to knead on a chopping board or other surface if you hav e light coloured benchtops. Glitt er was also liberally applied and spread throughout the kitchen .

Ingredients:

■ 2 cups Plain Flour ■ 1/2 cup of salt g water ■ 1.5 cups of boilin ■ 2 tbsp oil

tar ■ 2 tbsp cream of tar g ■ Black food colourin r ■ glitte

No cook space playdough.

Step 1: Mix flour, salt , oil and cream of tartar.

Step 2: Put boiling water in a jug and add black food colouring.

Step 3: Add black water mixture to bowl.

Step 4: Knead together for a few minutes until you have a ball of dough.

Step 5: Add your glitter!

Step 6: Knead together until glitter is spread throughout the dough.

Enjoy! Add sparkly stars or use a star cookie-cutter for a space-themed playdough session.

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

SPRING 2017 33

Win a trip

The A to Z zoo of flying for kids to the

FANCY getting close to a kangaroo, an orangutan, a meerkat or two? Then we have the prize for you!

Yarra Ranges Kids has four family passes to give away to any of Victoria’s three zoos - Melbourne Zoo, Werribee Zoo or Healesville Sanctuary.

All you have to do is head to yarrarangeskids.com.au, click on our competitions tab and open the zoo passes competition.

Tell us about your favourite animal and why they are your favourite, and we’ll select four winners on Tuesday 31 October.

For terms and conditions, check yarrarangeskids.com.au.

Get cracking - you and the kids could be enjoying a free trip to the zoo of your choice!

34 SPRING 2017

By Lia Spencer MOST children, at one time or another, wish that they could fly.

This childhood dream inspired author Lydia Di Giulio to write a new book which to be released later this year.

Twenty years ago, the Balwyn North resident told her husband’s four-year-old nephew Christian that she wanted to write a book for him and he told her it should be about a flying desk. This year, Lydia and her 12-year-old daughter Bridget brought that idea to fruition.

“The Flying Desk a-z” is the signature book in a collection published by The Flying Desk, which was founded in 2015. The book has been specifically designed to help young children learn the letters of the alphabet in a fun and engaging manner.

many different objects and an array of situations, along the way, that begin with that particular letter. The beautiful semi-realistic illustrations in this book complement each of these and help define their meaning.“ The first two books of The Flying Desk collection have already been published and have received great feedback.

“Where is Daisy?” is a picture story book about a little grey bantam hen named Daisy who lives on a farm with lots of other animals. Her special mission in life is to raise a family of her own but the farmer has other ideas.

It is suitable for pre-school to junior primary school-aged children.

“The Crystal Castle” is a picture story book about stranger danger and its consequences. Despite his mother’s warnings about stranger danger and wandering off from home, Orion is lured away by a golden pigeon where he meets a beautiful fairy who has a hidden secret. Consequently, Orion finds himself in real trouble.

“Basically, the book is about a little boy named Christian who embarks on a journey of discovery and adventure where he searches both land and sea for all the missing letters of the alphabet,” Lydia said. “One of the unique features of the book is that as Christian is searching for each particular letter of the alphabet, he encounters

Lydia said The Flying Desk collection of books were written to encourage a love of books and of reading in children.

Each book published is designed to be as exciting and interesting as possible to engage the reader. The collection of books were written in a style which mimics reality and are the kind of books that grandparents would appreciate

and enjoy reading with their grandchildren.

“When my son was a pre-schooler, I wanted to introduce him to the alphabet in the hope that he would already be familiar with all of the letters before he started school. I showed him the standard alphabet books whereby, ‘A is for apple, B is for banana,’ etc.

He got up and walked off. To him, these types of books were boring, and he was totally disinterested in learning the alphabet,” she said.

“So I thought that if I was able to write a book with a really exciting story line, this would entice my son and other children to be more interested in learning the letters of the alphabet.”

Comprising 288 illustrated pages, The Flying Desk a-z has been structured in such a way that it can be put away for another day without interrupting the flow of the story. It also has a ribbon attached so that the reader will not lose their place!

Anyone wanting to purchase “Where is Daisy?” and “The Crystal Castle” can do so from www.theflyingdesk.com or in store from hipkids at Deepdene or at the Bank of Melbourne in Kew. Readers are welcome to register their interest for “The Flying Desk a-z” on the website. It is expected to be released before Christmas.

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

O T N I T S R U B

g n i r sp September The Hills Arts Market, Saturday 9 September, 9am–3pm. Showcasing art and music of the hills and surrounding regions. Live music all day, variety of visual arts and kids art zone to explore. Memorial Avenue, Emerald.

The Lilydale SUMMIT, Thursday 21 September, 5.30pm for 6pm start. Have your say on the future of Lilydale. Register attendance via Yarra Ranges Shire council website. Box Hill Institute Lilydale Campus, LA Building, Jarlo Drive, Lilydale.

Wonga Park Farmers Market, Saturday 23 September, includes kids activities. Wonga Park Primary School, 41 Dudley Road, Wonga Park.

Country Market at Mont De Lancey, Saturday 23 September. Fresh produce and explore the historic grounds and outbuildings. Mont De Lancey estate, 71 Wellington Road, Wandin North.

October Royal Melbourne Show, Saturday 23 September Tuesday 3 October. Melbourne Showgrounds, Ascot Vale, Melbourne.

Warby Artisans and Produce Market, Sunday 1 October, Upper Yarra Arts Centre, 3409 Warburton Highway, Warburton.

Yarra Glen Racecourse Market, Sunday 1 October, 9am to 2pm. Gifts, gourmet produce, live music and entertainment for the kids. Yarra Glen Racecourse, Entry via Armstrong Grove, off Healesville-Yarra Glen Road.

Rotary Club of Lilydale Craft and Produce Market, Sunday 1 October, Bellbird Park, Lillydale Lake, Akarana Road, Lilydale.

The Hills Arts Market, Saturday 14 October, 9am– 3pm. Showcasing art and music of the hills and surrounding regions. Live music all day, variety of visual arts and kids art zone to explore. Memorial Avenue, Emerald.

Yarra Valley Regional Food Group Market, Sunday 15 October, Yering Station 38 Melba Highway, Yarra Glen.

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

Emerald Market, Sunday 15 October, Kilvington Drive, Emerald.

Marysville Jazz and Blues Weekend, 21-22 October, Murchison Street, Marysville.

Eildon Big Fish Challenge, Saturday 21 October, Eildon Pondage, Riverside Drive, Eildon.

Wonga Park Farmers Market, Saturday 28 October, includes kids activities. Wonga Park Primary School, 41 Dudley Road, Wonga Park.

Country Market at Mont De Lancey, Saturday 28 October. Fresh produce and explore the historic grounds and outbuildings. Mont De Lancey estate, 71 Wellington Road, Wandin North.

Mt Evelyn Street Party, Sunday, 29 October, 10am to 03pm. The Street Party celebrates the 1950s in a way that you’ve never seen it before; with rock ’n’ roll dance demonstrations and workshops, musicians and roving performers, fashion contests, classic cars, school children on stage, memorabilia and the Mt Evelyn Pin Up Competition. There are free activities for children and a marketplace. Wray Crescent, Mount Evelyn.

November Marysville Art Show, Saturday 4 November, Marysville Community Centre, 40 Falls Road, Marysville.

Yarra Glen Racecourse Market, Sunday 5 November, 9am to 2pm. Gifts, gourmet produce, live music and entertainment for the kids. Yarra Glen Racecourse, Entry via Armstrong Grove, off Healesville-Yarra Glen Road.

Warby Artisans and Produce Market, Sunday 5 November, Upper Yarra Arts Centre, 3409 Warburton Highway, Warburton.

Rotary Club of Lilydale Craft and Produce Market, Sunday 5 November, Bellbird Park, Lillydale Lake, Akarana Road, Lilydale.

Healesville Music Festival, Saturday 11 November.

The Healesville Music Festival is a family friendly event. More than 25 bands and performers, workshops, children’s activities, street performances, food stalls and a craft market. BYO camping at the Healesville Racecourse which is walking distance to festival venues. Tickets at healesvillemusicfestival. com.au Kilsyth Chelodina Festival, Sunday 12 November, 10am to 3pm. The festival supports and encourages environmentally sustainable businesses and activities across the Yarra Ranges via encouraging people to shop, play and eat locally, as well as be part of a supportive and happy community. 49 Durham Road, Kilsyth.

Ranges Music Festival, Thursday 16 November, 4pm to 9pm. Music workshops and performance opportunities for any groups, bands, choirs across the Yarra Ranges interested in participating please email: karen@drmc.org.au. Main Road, Monbulk.

Lilydale Show, Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 November. Horticulture, agriculture, art and craft, and community precinct with reptiles, an animal nursery, community groups, free activities for kids, CFA display more. The Melba Park Stag has free entertainment from 10am-5pm each day. On the main oval from 4pm until dark. At 27-29 Market Street, Lilydale.

Olinda Community House Market and Car Boot Sale, Saturday 18 November, 9am-3pm. The day will be one of fun and music, activities in support of the Olinda Community House and you are sure to find a bargain or two, especially for Christmas gifts.

70-81 Olinda-Monbulk Road, Olinda.

Open Garden Weekend at Warratina Lavender Farm, Saturday 18 November – Sunday 19 November, Warratina Lavender Farm, 105 Quayle Road, Wandin North.

Yarra Valley Regional Food Group Market, Sunday 19 November, Yering Station 38 Melba Highway, Yarra Glen.

Emerald Market, Sunday 19 November, Kilvington Drive, Emerald.

The Hills Arts Market, Saturday 11 November, 9am–3pm. Showcasing art and music of the hills and surrounding regions. Live music all day, variety of visual arts and kids art zone to explore. Memorial Avenue, Emerald.

SPRING 2017 35

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*Driveaway pricing includes Dealer delivery, stamp duty, 12 months registration and compulsory third party insurance. Excludes prestige paint. Private or ABN buyers only.

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36 SPRING 2017

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au