Stonnington Boroondara Kids Summer 2018

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SUMMER FUN IS HEATING UP AT GUMBUYA WORLD With four worlds of family fun, there is no better place than Gumbuya World to create memories that last a lifetime.

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about us . . .

Summer - WHAT A TIME TO BE ALIVE WHAT'S not to love about summer?

The hot days, warm nights, beach holidays and the silly season - it has to be my favourite time of the year.

Throw in a visit from Santa - and there's no way you could hate it. This is a wonderful time of the year for families.

This spectacular magazine is brought to you by Star News Group - a family owned and independent media company for more than a century.

A team of enthusiastic journalists, passionate advertising representatives and creative geniuses, who coincidentally also have their own offspring and know first-hand the 'ins' and 'outs' of parenting, have all worked hard to bring it to life.

We know what is important to local families and that is why we have sought help from experts in a range of fields to deliver you important professional advice, health and safety tips, educational facts and entertainment news.

This issue is full to the brim of all of the above.

Turn to page 6 and 7 to read about how the Real Dads of Melbourne are preparing for Christmas.

And expectant mums will be keen to learn how to prepare older children for new additions to the family on page 8.

Hear how a new mum navigated overseas travel with an 11 week old on page 10 and 11.

You'll want to get outside when you see our top five playgrounds in Boroondara on pages 14 and 15.

Alternatively, you may want to bury your head in a book when you see the most popular books for children on page 37.

We are so proud of our new product, but your opinion matters most.

We want to know what you think of our magazine and welcome all feedback.

If you want to have a great idea explored, have an interesting story to tell or simply want to get your face in the next edition, make sure to email melissa.meehan@starnewsgroup.com.

au with your information or photos.

We hope you enjoy Stonnington Boroondara Kids magazine and don't forget to check out our new website stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au.

The website offers an abundance of entertainment and educational information, keeps you up-to-date with great events in and around Stonnington and Boroondara.

It's the go-to destination for activity in your area.

Also like our Facebook page, facebook.com/ StonningtonBoroondaraKids, which gives daily and weekly updates so you know what's happening in your area.

Follow us on Instagram too, instagram.com/ stonningtonboroondarakids Have a great summer, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and happy reading.

HEALTH

PAGE 5

PAGE 18

And baby makes six ...

Allergies on the rise More than a wee problem PAGE 19 If in doubt, use this app

Keeping up with the Real Dads of Melbourne PAGE 8 Preparing your child for a new addition to the family PAGE 9 Declutter your home - use a toy library PAGE 10 & 11

PAGE 20 Act now to save pain and money later

EDUCATION

PAGE 30 Farewell summer in style Celebrate Christmas in Glenferrie PAGE 31

PAGE 21

Divorce is bad enough, why go through court too?

A school made for children with learning difficulties

The pick of the bunch

PAGE 22

REALITY BITES

Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108.

Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas.

All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible.

Cover Gumbuya World is the place to be this summer.

FREE SUMMER 2018/19

CHRISTMAS WITH THE

Real Dads of Melbourne

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VALUED AT $699!

playgrounds

bedtime bed SEE PAGE 5 FOR DETAILS

Choosing the right childcare for your kids

Teaching the craft of music

PAGE 34

PAGE 25

Is your backyard safe?

Give your daughter the confidence to reach for the stars

Stay safe around the water this Summer

PAGE 14-15

ENTERTAINMENT

Best parks and playgrounds in Stonnington

The Sleep Coach answers all your questions

PAGE 26

Easing anxiety for kids on the spectrum

Advertising Clare Vane-Tempest clare.vane-tempest@starnewsgroup. com.au Sarah Wright sarah.wright@starnewsgroup.com.au Phone: 5945 0666

Christmas gifts to make their eyes sparkle

PAGE 23

PAGE 13

Photography Rob Carew

PAGE 32

PAGE 33

Motherhood and giving up corporate life

Melissa Meehan melissa.meehan@starnewsgroup.com. au Phone: 5945 0666

A gift that keeps giving

Toys that enrich and educate children

PAGE 12

Editorial

Custom kids furniture made with quality materials

Bright, modern take on pre-school Travelling with a baby

Stonnington Boroondara Kids Cnr Princes Hwy and Army Road, Pakenham, 3810 PO Box 9, Pakenham, Victoria 3810 Phone: 5945 0666 Fax: 5945 0777

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IT'S YOUR LIFE

PAGE 6 & 7

Stonnington Boroondara Kids will be published quarterly prior to each of the school holidays.

Advertising Manager Mandy Clark

contents

Win a single bed

Stonnington Boroondara Kids magazine is a Star News Group publication.

best

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SUMMER 2018/2019 1

PAGE 35

PAGE 36

Enrol now to dance in 2019 PAGE 16 Malvern Central - your one-stop Christmas shop

Best Christmas Toys Guide Perfect parties for kids who love making things PAGE 27

BOOKS Page 37

Fight bullies with water

Hands on fun and happy memories too

PAGE 17

PAGE 28

Putting children's furniture in the spotlight

Born to party

CALENDAR

PAGE 29

PAGE 39

Splash into summer at Gumbuya Park

Party time

Summer sensations

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your life It’s

AND BABY MAKES ...

six

By Melissa Meehan

IN a day and age when the average Aussie family boasts two children and a dog - a family of eight turns heads.

It's a feeling Kew mum of six Natalie Batsakis knows all too well.

From left, Philip holding Ares, Alyssandra, Elysion, Natalie Batsakis, Evangelos, Emmanuelle.

She has spent the last decade bearing children.

And has just given birth to her six child, a son, Ares.

Mum Natalie Batsakis with Baby Ares.

And after having that many children it's no surprise she has a few stories to tell.

Her oldest child, eight-year-old daughter Alyssandra and third child, son Evangelos share a birthday - three years apart.

It's something Alyssandra isn't too pleased about but Evangelos thinks it's wonderful and is already planning all the parties they can share.

Three-year-old Philip, number four, was born on the bathroom floor at home 10 minutes after the ambulance arrived.

"I thought I had heaps of time - I called my parents and told them I was having contractions and I went downstairs to put my thongs on and get read and felt the urge to push," she said.

"I thought I can't go anywhere now."

four, it isn't a bad thing to go into labour at home.

"It's not like it's your first baby and you don't know what you are doing," she said.

"That said, I think that was too quick - it's a lot of stress on the body."

By the time Natalie's parents arrived the ambulance was directing her husband to warm towels in preparation for a home birth.

And Ares was also keen to meet his brothers and sisters, bursting into the world just 20 minutes after Natalie arrived at hospital.

"My dad was losing it, he's from Sudan and was saying that even when he was born he got delivered in a hospital," she laughs.

"My obstetrician reminded me that women who have birthed so many children can go from 1cm-10cm in 2-3 strong contractions," she said.

"So we sent him upstairs to make sure none of the other kids woke up and came downstairs."

"Thankfully we made it and baby Ares arrived safely and is healthy and well."

Within 10 minutes of the ambulance arriving Philip was born.

"It was pretty scary actually, they don't have all the monitors like they do in the hospital and when I didn't hear him cry at the start I just panicked, but everything was OK." Natalie says that by baby number

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She always thought two wasn't enough growing up and knew she would have at least three kids.

"But I don't like odd numbers, so four seemed like a good number," she said.

Pict Pictures: es Rob Ca Carew e "But once we got to four, I thought it's not that stressful - I've got things under control."

Natalie and her husband stopped trying after baby number four, and decided to let it happen.

She realised she was pregnant with Ares in the week leading up to her 40th birthday.

"If I was younger I'd probably keep having kids, they are beautiful and crazy," she said.

Now she battles the balance between having an eight-year-old with attitude and a one-year-old who takes any nappy-free opportunity to relieve himself wherever he likes.

"It's really nice to have a big family -

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your life It’s

We try to

capture the highlights JARRAD and Michael DugganTierney didn't set out to become insta-famous. What started out as a way for family members living interstate to see their son Reid grow up quickly grew into a 91,000-person following.

"I think we became interesting during the time of the same sex marriage debate - some people had never seen a modern family actually functioning and people were only getting information, not the tactile image of a family who loved each other," Jarrad said.

"We are just a typical family."

The pair, and eight-year-old Reid, who was born via surrogacy, share photos and videos receiving thousands of likes and comments every day.

The most popular? Definitely Reid.

"People always say we love Reid," Jarrad said.

"We try to capture the highlights, but there is a lot we don't share. And now that he's eight I ask permission to post, and sometimes he says no."

It's very different to the cute baby in the pram all those years ago - now he's worried whether it was his best dancing.

"He's always been very comfortable with himself and is very comfortable in his own skin," Michael says.

"He's not just like that at home with me taking sneaky footage, he's like that at school and with friends. He's known for being an extrovert."

SU L ND

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Keeping up with the

By Melissa Meehan IF you haven't heard of Jarrad, Michael and Reid Duggan-Tierney you may have been living under a rock.

You might also know them as the Real Dads of Melbourne - an instafamous family with more than 91,000 followers on Instagram.

Jarrad and Michael are one of approximately 6,800 same sex couples with a child in Australia.

And while their family dynamic is different to most, they share the same struggles navigating parenthood and finding the balance of routine, playtime, homework and a busy social life.

The social media influencers are gearing up for Christmas, and like many parents of inner Melbourne kids try to find a balance when it comes to gifts for eight-year-old Reid.

"Kids get a lot throughout the year," Jarrad said.

"And we think Reid gets a lot during the year so he knows at Christmas time that he doesn't get that much."

Unlike many, the Duggan-Tierney's are lucky enough to have brands sending them things to promote online - especially at Christmas, and it's important for them that because of it, Reid doesn't become entitled.

"We take a lot of that and give to charity - whether it be someone less fortunate or we will give it to our chosen charity," Jarrad said.

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Jarrad (Blue Shirt) and Michael (Pink Shirt) with Reid.

Pictures: Rob Carew

Real Dads of Melbourne "We don't want him to be entitled, we weren't brought up like that."

Michael says that toys these days are pretty disposable and want to raise Reid to grow up with that in mind.

because we've got family interstate."

As they prepare to put up their Christmas tree, the Duggan-Tierney's are looking forward to reminiscing about years gone past.

home-made decorations, but every year we buy a special glass one and put the date underneath."

and Minnie Mouse kissing which is quite significant for us because we got engaged this year. So that will be our 2018 bauble.

Each year since Reid was born they've bought a special ornament.

Reid has been involved in every choice, too, - even as a baby Jarrad and Michael would hold him up to the decorations and get him to choose a favourite.

"The unreliability of Australia Post actually works really well for us," Michael jokes.

"When we put up the tree we talk about the memories of where we purchased it and how old Reid was," Jarrad says.

"When we are on holidays throughout the year we will hunt for decorations to remind us of our experience and holidays," Michael said.

While they're not sure where they will spend Christmas this year, they are still receiving tenders from loved ones, it's going to be special.

"It means that Reid gets presents dribble in right through January

"We've got heaps of other decorations on the tree, including eight years of

"This year we went to Disneyland and bought an ornament of Mickey

Follow the Real Dads of Melbourne on Instagram.

And even the gifts they keep - they roll them out slowly over the months following Christmas, so it's not over the top.

"Reid chose that one out of the wedding themed ornaments and we love it."

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SUMMER 2018/2019 7

your life It’s

Nesting 2.0: Prepping

older siblings for a new baby

LAUREN Gardiner, a Melbourne mum of three and author of a new story book for soon to-be-big brothers and sisters called 'baby + me', believes that sharing the pregnancy and nesting experience with your children can help prepare them for the significant changes a new baby can bring.

Pregnant again?

Congratulations! Hospital bag packed - tick. Car seat installed - tick. Netflix shows selected for late night breastfeeding sessions - tick.

You've got this, right? But hang on ... what about your older child or children?

Introducing a new baby into a family is possibly the biggest thing to have ever happened to your older child.

Debbie Isaac, a Melbourne-based occupational therapist with many years' experience and three grown-up kids of her own, says that children can experience a range of feelings.

Jealousy, surprise, frustration and bewilderment are common emotions in the early days of a new arrival.

Some children feel "absolute shock", Ms Isaac says.

"Children have seen the big tummy but have difficult reconciling that with the end product (the newborn baby)."

Preparing children for a new baby can help them cope.

Ms Isaac suggests providing information and sticking with routines.

Equally important is letting the child know that they are loved and special.

But preparations need not be expensive or elaborate.

Nicole Avery, a mum of five, the author of the book "Planning with Kids" and also a popular blog of the same name, suggests involving kids in planning for the baby's arrival.

"In my own experience, some activities are more engaging than others, depending on the child's personality, interest level and age," she said.

"Sharing picture books and pretend play with a doll were helpful in my second pregnancy.

"In my third pregnancy, both boys (then four and five) loved making a

shopping list of baby items. Nappies were a real curiosity ... probably because it played to their interest in poo and wee!"

Here are Lauren's top ideas for sharing the pregnancy and nesting with your children: 1. The talk!

3. Let your body be a guide!

5. Baby projects!

Even if you're not showing it can be hard to hide a pregnancy. People will soon notice that you're opting for orange juice and avoiding the cheese platter.

Your body is simultaneously growing a baby and preparing for labour and readying the milk supply - WOW!

If your kids are into art, they could complete an art project for the new baby - such as a drawing for the nursery wall or a handmade card.

Tell your older children first - the news will affect them the most.

For the talk, pick a place free of interruptions and distractions.

Make the message relatable (for example, refer to another child with a new baby they know).

Alternatively, use an ultrasound picture.

And if all else fails - point to your tummy!

Your body can also help prepare your older children for a new baby - so try to embrace it and let them embrace it too (literally).

By letting your older child touch your belly and feel a kick, you're nurturing the beginnings of a very special relationship.

4. All in for nesting! Your older children can help with preparations for the new arrival.

Parents should also sensitively manage other people's messages about the baby as they may upset your older children.

In Nicole's book, "Planning with Kids", she suggests older siblings can help with setting up the baby's bassinet, making meals in advance, washing baby clothes and looking at baby photos.

With three boys and one girl, in her fifth pregnancy Nicole's response to comments about a preferred gender was "we are just happy with a healthy baby".

These activities provide an opportunity to talk about the baby - its size, its routine, its capabilities and some of the demands and disruptions for the family (eg night waking).

All the hype about the new baby can also be overwhelming for your older children.

Having your children help with these tasks also shows them they can have a role to play (rather than simply telling them).

Some people might talk about the baby like there's absolutely no one else in your life (such as that toddler clinging to your leg).

Here, change the conversation to include the other children.

2. Books, books, books!

There are some fantastic picture books about new babies.

The author will have spent countless hours thinking from the child's perspective and crafted the story to help children with the adjustment (trust me - I know because it's what I've spent the last 16 months doing).

As well as being a fun and intimate experience for adult and child, sharing a book can prompt further discussion.

Grandparents can get in on the act here too.

My mum helped my boys create a beautiful welcome home banner for our third child, which now has a place amongst our most treasured keepsakes.

6. Sharing memories!

We love to look back on photos of our children when they were little, including ultrasound photos and tell stories about those times.

Share these with your children and discuss how the baby is just like they were and how they are different now.

And does it get easier?

"Yes," says Nicole.

"When you do have a few, once you put in the work for the first one or two it flows on to the others. The older ones lead the process with the younger ones."

So there's good news for those planning an entire basketball team like Nicole!

REVIEW: Preparing your child for a new baby BABY + me, Lauren Gardiner Are you pregnant with older children in tow?

the child learns positive and helpful behaviours that make them a S-U-PE-R big brother or big sister.

You spend the nights wondering how to prepare your child for the new baby or how to kick-start a sibling bond.

But it is a book with a difference - it allows your child to create their very own story, adding their own words and drawings in space provided.

The brand new baby + me book, written by Mont Albert mum Lauren Gardiner, can help.

Ms Gardiner, a mother of three, developed the book while pregnant with her third child.

In baby + me, the child's special place in the family is reinforced and

This book is beautifully illustrated and thoughtfully written for soon-to-be brothers and sisters.

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your life It’s

Theo with Th ith h Toys.

Pictures: Rob Carew

From left, Victoria Moller, Vaishali Mali and Vikki Marmaras with her son Theo (2).

Declutter your home – USE A TOY LIBRARY

By Melissa Meehan IT'S an all too familiar story - old, once-loved toys sent to what could be described as a graveyard at the back of the playroom.

Soon enough it builds up and you have unwanted toys coming out of your ears.

Vikki Marmaras has the answer.

Don't waste money and space on buying new toys - borrow them from your local toy library.

"The idea behind a toy library is the

same as a book library - you can borrow toys so you don't have to buy them," Ms Marmaras said.

"There is a three-week rental period but at the end of that period you can renew the toys you have or come back and swap for new ones."

Canterbury Toy Library's Ms Maramas says she's noticed her little boy still has a short attention span.

He loves the toys for a good couple of days or weeks when he first gets the toy, but by the end of the three-week period

he is ready for something new.

"And because we borrowed it instead of buying we don't have those toys cluttering up our house," she said.

"He still gets the excitement of choosing a toy and having something new, but it doesn't take up space in our home."

She said children's learning and interests change over time to and being able to borrow age relevant toys was another great thing about using a toy library.

At the moment, her son loves the push-along rabbit he borrowed - but in a year or so he'll most likely be choosing puzzles and games.

Toys for children with special needs are also available.

Canterbury Toy Library also provides party packs to its members - which includes ride-on toys, ball pits and other party fun.

It means those having a party don't have to buy and then store all of these things at home once the party is over.

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your life It’s

Travelling

with a baby

By Melissa Meehan

the locals more than they would have without Mawson in tow.

TRAVELLING the world is a rite of passage for many Australians - but does that have to change once you have kids?

"Everyone would stop, look at him and play with him," she said.

Nicole and Ryan Impey recently travelled to Japan for a family wedding, but this time the seasoned travellers took their 11 week old son Mawson with them.

Armed with information, Nicole who was breastfeeding their son, bought a modesty cover as to not offend.

"As long as you've got a cover it's OK - but saying that I never saw another woman feeding in public," she said.

Most shopping centres and even Disney had feeding rooms - but in more remote areas it wasn't that easy to find somewhere to feed Mawson.

"Finding places to breastfeed was difficult because I didn't know the area - here (in Australia) you know you can go to a cafe or shopping centre - but over there I had no idea where anything was," she said.

"I had to feed him in random spots which was different."

While feeding was a challenge, Nicole says travelling with a baby has its benefits - including interacting with

Breastfeeding in a different part of the world.

"We have so many photos of Japanese women surrounding Mawson in the carrier with my husband because they were so smitten with him."

Would they travel overseas with a baby again? Sure.

"You just need to be prepared that you can't do as much as you did without a baby and that you need to plan your day around naps and feeding," she said.

"This age is particularly good because I could put Mawson down and he wouldn't go anywhere - I think if he was mobile it would present some different challenges."

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH A BABY: ■ Be prepared to go with the flow ■ Don't expect to do as much as you would pre-baby ■ Have days with nothing planned so that they can recover - babies need a break too ■ Make sure you stay at baby-friendly facilities (some hotels in Japan had no room for a portacot)

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- a different kind of

holiday One of the best memories of their trip to Japan was how the locals interacted with their son.

■ Buy nappies at your destination if you can. Nappies are heavy and take up a lot of space in luggage

■ Take one giant suitcase instead of two smaller ones - having to push or carry one is better than two, especially if you have a baby to carry around as well

■ Don't over pack - just because you have a baby doesn't mean you need to take their whole wardrobe. Think smart

Nicole and her family were still able to take in all the culture of Japan despite travelling with a little one.

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SUMMER 2018/2019 11

your life It’s

TECHNOLOGY OPENS UP

opportunities for working mums

By Melissa Meehan BALANCING corporate life and a growing family isn't an easy task.

So when Sam McFarlane felt her new boss wasn't that supportive of her part-time position, she decided to take the jump and make it on her own.

"My new boss was not very understanding and that made me highly anxious and stressed," she said.

So she swapped an office in the city for a desk at home five years ago and hasn't looked back.

With a background in marketing, Sam did some training in social media and realised there were businesses who needed help with managing their different sites.

"It was frightening. My husband kept saying 'you have to work' and I had that pressure where I had to find a way to make an income," she said.

"But the main thing was that I wasn't stressed, I was happy and at home with the kids.

"And soon enough he realised it was going to work."

But working from home still has it stigmas, with people often asking Sam whether she is going to get a 'real job' once the kids are older.

"I have to say to them, this is a real job - I don't just sit at home and play house."

With everything online and in the cloud, Sam says technology has opened up a new workforce, which is particularly promising for new mums.

"It allows you to work from home, at any hour and work around your children," she said.

"Now that my kids are eight and 10 it makes things much easier, but as they get older I'll be able to work more and I think my business can grow."

POWERFUL CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT In addition to unshakable confidence, our goal is to develop your child’s character to ensure success in all aspects of life.

There are six chapters in the Gracie Character Development Program: Responsibility, Health, Respect, Citizenship, Manners, and Caring.

We spend two months on each chapter, and during each class we dedicate a few minutes to discussing the featured character trait and the simple things your child can do to make it part of their everyday lives. The secret to our success lies in a unique point-based reward system that we created to excite kids about making daily progress!

FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO GRACIEKIDS.COM

At some point or another, every child will be targeted by a bully. The Gracie Bullyproof objective is to give your child the physical, psychological, and verbal tools to overcome bullies. Our aim is not to encourage confrontation, but rather, to reduce fear and build confidence in order to reduce your child’s risk of being targeted.

TO GET STARTED TODAY EMAIL INFO@GRACIEJIUJITSUBURWOOD.COM.AU

12 SUMMER 2018/2019

FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO GRACIEKIDS.COM

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Once your child is enrolled in the Gracie Bullyproof program, you qualify for a free subscription to GracieKids.com, our interactive online learning center for Gracie Bullyproof.

With comprehensive videos covering every technique your child learns in class, you and your child can use your online access to review past lessons and learn new techniques – from home!

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

your life Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Social stories FOR children ON THE spectrum

By Melissa Meehan

They shared it with other professionals and Red Sparrow Books was born.

FOR some children, everyday tasks like brushing their teeth or going to get a haircut can be filled with anxiety and stress.

They are now making stories for a range of different subject in the hope it will help parents of children on the spectrum, too.

That's where Red Sparrow Books come in - providing an interactive library of social stories for children on the autism spectrum.

One of the most important stories, according to Melissa and Jo-anne is the one that shows police are nothing to be afraid of.

Melissa and Jo-anne started putting the stories together about a year ago, after Jo-anne (a photographer) asked Melissa to work with her on sessions for special needs kids.

"Absconding is an issue for many of these kids," Melissa said.

"And most kids are taught that police are scary by their parents who often use them as a way to discipline them.

"I have a child on the spectrum and I thought it was a much needed reference for parents in the same situation," she said.

A social story is used to provide an outline of an experience a child needs to do - it could be brushing their teeth or an experience like an excursion to the zoo.

It runs through what to expect while being instructional and informative.

"These kids have high anxiety for things they don't know - so these social stories allow them to know what to expect," Melissa said.

"So we thought we'll make one up for

"But this particular story gets across that police are safe, who they are and what is the process if you come across them."

Melissa Weatherley (left) and Jo-anne Danes are doing their best to make life easier for kids on the spectrum. the photography to run them through a basic session of what they do, who we are, what a photographer looks like, what a camera does.

She said changes in environments can often cause meltdowns for children.

"I know myself it takes time to make

Another popular story is getting a haircut.

up a social story - if this can help families to lower their children's anxiety and stress it's great," Melissa said.

"Average children can use these stories too - not just kids on the spectrum."

Jo took the images and Melissa wrote the story and with a little help from family - they were able to make it all interactive.

Two memberships are available, one free and the other paid.

Check it out redsparrowbooks.com. au.

A New Direction in an Active Learning Environment Creators of Modern Kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s furniture, Toys & Cubby Houses

Andale School is a small independent school which provides a supported learning program for children with language and learning disorders who are not able to learn effectively in a mainstream setting.

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At HipKids, we pride ourselves on delivering functional products that are high in Quality and refreshing in design. With Christmas around the corner, come in and checkout our great range of wooden toys, kids furniture and cubby houses.

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Present this ad and receive a free Veggie Crate Set ( Value $29.95) spend 95 5) wh when hen yyou ou s pend d $150 or more at our Deepdene Store*

50 Whitehorse Rd, Deepdene Vic 3103 *Offer ends 24th December. Valid on full priced product purchases only, excluding gift vouchers.

Strictly no holds or rain checks and not available in conjunction with any other offer. One per Customer.

SUMMER 2018/2019 13

your life Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Phoenix Park.

Five of the best playgrounds in Stonnington LOOKING for the best playgrounds in Stonnington?

Bubbles

Well look no further - we've found some impressive places in your area coupled with picturesque parks and gardens.

Pre-School KINDER PROGRAMS

Whether you are looking to take a relaxing stroll, want to entertain the kids in a fun playground, or are planning a family picnic by the river, there are many perfect places for you.

Markham Reserve.

Semi-structured classes that prepare children beautifully for school. For parents looking for an educational alternative to a childcare/local kinder setting.

3 Year Old Kinder Two or three days per week 4 Year Old Kinder Three days per week, 9-3pm Now takin g bookings for our

highly reg arded & unique to

Bubbles P re-School,

2 Year Old Pre-Kinder program children attend 2 or 3 mornings per week, 8.30-12.00pm semi-structured classes with built-in art and music lessons classes taught by quali ed, enthusiastic and warm teachers dedicated art room, music room, and mini library

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2 Year Old , PRE-KIND ER program.

Check out our website gallery to see our facilities, or call to arrange a tour time.

168-172 Waverley Rd, Malvern East T: 9572 1995 www.bubbles - preschool.com 14 SUMMER 2018/2019

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McArthur St Reserve 15 McArthur Street, Malvern McArthur St Reserve, located next door to the Maternal and Child Health Centre, has a good range of facilities for a relatively small park. This park was recently upgraded with extra play and interactive features throughout the garden for children to explore.

Phoenix Park.

Phoenix Park 3 Ivanhoe Grove, Malvern East The Phoenix Park precinct is the heart of Malvern East, providing a wonderful location for the community to meet, learn from one another, attend activities and recreate.

Markham Reserve 80 Victory Blvd, Ashburton The excellent adventure playground features climbing nets, a large seesaw, a flying fox, monkey bars, a rotating flower, large wooden kookaburras, a sandpit and great swings for all ages.

Phoenix Park.

Phoenix Park.

Phoenix Park.

Markham Reserve.

The playground is completely enclosed by a safety fence.

Como and Como North Parks Home to Stonnington's Carols by Candlelight each year, it's no surprise locals flock to these parks regularly.

There is plenty to keep the family entertained here, including exercise equipment, a playground, bicycle path, barbecue area and ample space to kick the footy.

Markham Reserve.

Ferndale Park Glen Iris Road, Glen Iris Situated on the little known Ferndale Trail, the tress in this park seem to go on forever and it has a great playground that will keep the kids wanting to come back. The kids will also be amazed by the futuristic toilet block.

Markham Reserve.

Pictures: Rob Carew

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

SUMMER 2018/2019 15

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Christmas

at Malvern Central MALVERN Central is your one-stop-shop for all things Christmas.

Whether it be for gifting or entertaining, Malvern Central can cater to your every need.

Meet Santa every day right up until Christmas Eve and every child who visits receives a special gift.

Children can have their photo taken with Santa and since Christmas is the season for giving, $1 from every photo package sold will be donated to the CREATE Foundation, an outstanding organisation that empowers children and young people to build on their self confidence and self-esteem.

Centre Manager Melissa Downes says new stores such as David Jones Food, Peter Bouchier, Woodfrog Bakery and Naked Foods alongside old favourites means you will be spoilt for choice.

"Plus the kids will be entertained while you shop," she said.

And it's true - kids of all ages will love

Malver n Central. Mum Steph with her son Will on wooden animals.

playing on the interactive floor projectorr (located on the lower level outside Seed Sport) and can play a game of basketball or run through some virtual leaves.

Malvern Centra l. Kidstuff, Benn y (left) and Toyah.

On the upper level check out the farmyard animal kids play where mum or dad can take a break while watching the kids climb around.

Local schools will share the joy of Christmas, singing carols in the centre during December.

Gift Inspiration for the kids Finding the perfect gift at Christmas can be daunting, but the friendly staff at Malvern Central are always happy to help.

Malvern Central.

Teen - Th The latest SSeed d Child & T l t t seasonal styles for babies, girls, boys, and teens from 0 - 16 years

Malvern Central. Interac tive Game on the floor.

Kidstuff - Specialising in toys that inspire individuality and reward curiosity

Shoes & Sox - Professionally fitted children's shoes

Store M Manager T Toyah Kidstuff St h ffrom Kid tell us that the hottest toys for Christmas this year are the L.O.L Surprise, Our Generation dolls, drones, robotics and anything unicorn! Plus you can't go wrong with bunnykin's for the babies.

Cotton On Kids - A large range of girls, boys and baby clothes, bedding and toys

Adairs Kids - Premium homewares and home decor for kids. Ranges include furniture, bedding and toys

If you are still stuck for an idea, you can visit our online gift guide at www.malverncentralshopping.com.au

Find some inspiration for the kids at these great stores:

David Jones - Great for the whole family but the kids are all catered for in the toy and kids clothing departments

Fighting fire with water to beat bullies MOST martial arts programs rely on striking the attacker with violent punches, kicks, knees and elbows where children can't control the outcome of their strikes on an aggressor - but the Gracie Bullyproof program takes a different approach.

Catering for children ages 5-13, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu differs from other martial arts programs because they teach, first and foremost, to defuse confrontations with words and never to instigate physical aggression.

The key difference is that students at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu are taught vocal and physical skills in context of the variety of situations bully can occur in.

Children are taught to fight fire with water so you never have to worry about your own child becoming a bully themselves.

"It's all about minimising the impact of bullying and the need to engage in bullying behaviour because of the strong sense of confidence and self value you develop within the class," he said.

Gracie Jiu Jitsu Burwood teaches children how to defuse confrontations with words first and never to initiate physical aggression through an emphasis on verbal Jiu Jitsu.

If attacked, they will have the techniques to non-violently neutralise the threat and gain control until help arrives or they are able to negotiate with the aggressor to end the confrontation.

Owner Robbie Singh is a behavioural analyst who provides social skills training in a variety of educational settings during the day and brings those skills to the martial arts setting.

He has been running the Bullyproof program for the last five years and says the children are able to walk away knowing how to interpret the behaviours and intentions of those around them.

16 SUMMER 2018/2019

"If you teach children what bullying is they are able to identify it when they are being bullied and catch themselves when they engage in behaviour that could be perceived as bullying by someone else.

Children are taught to fight fire with water so you never have to worry about your own child becoming a bully themselves.

By using role play and games they are taught how to tell the difference between harmless jokes and actual harassment and cruelty.

"Our goal is to instil in your child unshakeable confidence so they can

overcome bullies without violence," Robbie said.

"We will teach your child to use verbal assertiveness to deter bullies and several non-violent self-defence techniques to stay safe if physically assaulted."

"The bottom line is: we will prepare your child to defend themselves against bullies without turning them into one."

Gracie Jiu Jitsu Burwood is one of only three certified Gracie Bullyproof program providers in Australia.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Burwood Unit 2, 5-13 Sinnott St Burwood VIC 3125 Mobile: 0430 154 012 www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

ADVERTISING FEATURE

h s a l Sp INTO

r e m sum

THE summer fun is heating up at Victoria's newest theme park, so now's the time to get along and see what everyone's been buzzing about.

With four magical worlds to explore, Gumbuya World delivers the ultimate family holiday in a single day. And all in one great value ticket!

Gumbuya's state-of-the-art water park Oasis Springs is the perfect way to cool down as the thermometer rises. Take the plunge on epic water slides, get deliriously drenched on the aquatic jungle gym Typhoon Island, or soak up the rays on a relaxing drift along the 180 metre Lazy River. With the water heated to a perfect 26 degrees, every day is awesome aquatic fun.

Or you can journey into the beautiful natural wilderness to meet all kinds of amazing animals on the Wildlife Trail.

More than 50 species call Gumbuya World home - from kangaroos, koalas and dingoes to the mind-boggling creepy-crawlies who dwell in the Critter Cave.

For an unforgettable experience, why not book an Animal Close Encounter to go inside the enclosures and get one-on-one with these incredible creatures. Anyone game to pat a python?

There are also heaps of awesome rides for thrill-seekers young and old to spin out on at Oz Adventure and Outback Explorers. Whether you're flying sky-high on the Giant Tree Swing, enjoying the bumper car chaos of the Desert Derby or delighting in Berry Twirl (a super-sweet spin on everyone's favourite Teacups ride), there's fun to suit every speed.

And if you think Gumbuya World is magical by day, you should see it after dark! On Friday 14 December, you can join the festivities at Gumbuya World's hit pool party under the stars, Oasis Nights. Chill out with a relaxing twilight session to wind down your week while the kids go wild on the water slides and explore the wonders of Oasis Springs in the golden sunset. There's a licensed

Gumbuya World is the best place to cool down over summer. bar, delicious dinner options and live entertainment to help you groove through the night.

minutes from Melbourne, and open from 10am - 5pm every day in December (except Christmas Day).

With so much to do, there's no end to the family fun on offer at Gumbuya World. Whether it's your first time or a return visit, you'll create magical memories that you and the kids will cherish for years to come. That also makes Gumbuya World a perfect venue for your Christmas group function.

They're taking bookings now, so don't delay! Annual passes and gift cards are also available, and make great Christmas presents.

It's the vision of a group of Victorian entrepreneurs consisting of Gerry Ryan, Wal Pisciotta, Adam Campbell, Brett Murray, and Ray and Ron Weinzierl, who wanted to reimagine the tourist favourite they enjoyed with their families when they were younger, and create a legacy of fun and imagination for future generations.

Gumbuya World is located only 50

For more information and to book your summer holiday tickets and Christmas functions, visit gumbuya. com.au

PUTTING CHILDREN'S FURNITURE IN THE

spotlight ALL too often children's furniture plays second fiddle to the adult offerings hidden in the back corner of large department stores.

But Bedtime is different - proudly putting children's furniture back in the spotlight where it belongs.

Owner Simon Angel says Bedtime's story began in 2005, after returning home empty handed and disillusioned after a long day shopping for kid's furniture.

"We found that children's furniture was too childlike in both size and design, with little consideration of how it would match the rest of the home," he said. www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

"With such limited choice and often poor quality and overpriced, we thought surely it could be done better."

Bedtime designs and manufactures everything themselves which helps them keep the cost low and deliver the best possible value to their customers.

So look no further - if you are looking for quality and reasonably priced furniture Bedtime is the only place showroom you need to visit.

They also know how painful it can be waiting months for your order - so they carry plenty of stock and in most cases can ship orders within three working days.

Don't forget to enter our competition to win a Hampton Single Bed, go to http://stonningtonboroondarakids.com. au/competitions/

"We're proud of the fact that every night, thousands of children around Australia are tucked up in our kid's beds," he said.

They also put kids first - their beds not only pass the test of time, but Bedtime only uses the best sustainable materials and non-toxic child friendly finishes.

"From single beds to triple bunks and everything in between, we offer the largest range of quality kid's furniture around. "

"We design, manufacture and sell the biggest range of furniture designed exclusively for babies, kids and teens in Australia," he said.

Bedtime 1349 High Street, Malvern 9824 4955 Home HQ, 372 Whitehorse Road, Nunawading 8838 8242 www.bedtime.com.au

So Bedtime, then known as Parenthood, was born. Families have trusted Simon and his team to deliver the quality and safety parents want for their children coupled with the style and design they want for their homes.

SUMMER 2018/2019 17

ALLERGIES on the rise ONE in 10 infants have a food allergy and food induced anaphylaxis has doubled over the past 10 years, but Australian children are being forced to wait up to two years to see a specialist.

Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia CEO Maria Said wants people with food allergies to have an improved quality of life and do the things most people take for granted, with reduced risk.

Allergy rates in children are increasing, and despite this parents are struggling to get their children's allergies assessed in the public system.

"Teens and young adults are at the highest risk of fatal, food-triggered anaphylactic reactions out of any age group," Ms Said commented.

At least a 12-month wait is not uncommon for a food challenge test at Melbourne's Royal Children's Hospital, leaving many parents to visit expensive private practitioners.

Allergy facts:

To address this problem, the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia, the leading medical and patient organisations for allergy in Australia, developed a National Allergy Strategy in collaboration with other key stakeholder organisations.

■ Hospital admissions for anaphylaxis (severe, life threatening allergic reactions) have increased five-fold in the last 20 years

■ Allergic diseases are among the fastest growing chronic conditions in Australia, affecting approximately 1 in 5 Australians

Allergy rates in children are increasing.

The federal government recently announced five years of funding for the implementation of the strategy.

to improve access to care for people with allergic conditions, particularly those in rural and remote areas.

need to learn from these tragic events and implement processes to prevent them from occurring again."

Projects include development of standardised food allergy content to be included in all accredited food hygiene courses, and the development of online resources for teens and young adults with allergies to share their experiences.

"Sadly, there have been many near misses and preventable deaths related to food and drug allergy," immunologist and Associate Professor Richard Loh said.

Allergies affect about 20 percent of the Australian population.

Another project will determine how

s s s s s s s s s

"Just recently a young girl lost her life due to an allergic reaction to dairy. We

ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS 7OMEN S (EALTH 0HYSIOTHERAPY 0REGNANCY 0HYSIOTHERAPY 0OST .ATAL 0HYSIOTHERAPY 0REGNANCY 0OST .ATAL Exercise 0ELVIC &LOOR 2EHABILITATION -EN S (EALTH #LINIC 4HE 3PORTING 0ELVIC &LOOR #LINIC #HILDREN S #ONTINENCE #LINIC #LINICAL 0ILATES

About 4.5 million Australians are affected by hay fever and allergic rhinitis, while one in 20 Australian children and one in 50 adults has a food allergy.

MORE THAN A

BED wetting is a common problem roblem for 20 per cent of Australian school-aged children.

kids tto o use us their muscles the correct way and can use an ultrasound to make sure that is happening."

Other kids struggle with constipation, soiling of underwear or needing to go to the toilet all the time.

She said often worried parents were relieved to hear that some children aren't dry overnight until they are seven years old.

Fitwise Physiotherapy has a message for worried parents - you are not alone.

Experienced continence physiotherapists can help you and your child gain better control of their bladder and bowels.

Julienne Moore is an APA Titled continence physiotherapist at Fitwise.

Rear 1095 High Street (Enter via Huntingtower Rd) Armadale, 3143 P 9822 4999 F 9822 5999

www.fitwise.com.au 12403141-RA50-18

18 SUMMER 2018/2019

■ Delayed access to medical care and long waiting times for management of allergic diseases in all areas (rural, remote and metropolitan) is a major problem, due to the high number of diagnosed patients, newly diagnosed patients and low number of appropriately trained health care professionals

wee problem

They'll take a detailed history including your child's bladder and bowel habits and investigate how their muscles work.

fitwise@fitwise.com.au

■ Introducing peanut between 4-11 months of age can reduce peanut allergy in high risk infants by 80%

Fitwise physio, Julienne Moore has a message for worried parents you are not alone.

Fees for all services can be claimed via Hicaps Toddlers and babies are welcome

Level 4, Albert St Medical Centre 372 Albert St, East Melbourne 3002 P 9486 0512 F 9486 0513

■ Deaths from anaphylaxis have increased by 7% per year for the last seven years

She says there are many reasons a child may have continence issues ranging from dehydration to holding on for too long in the playground.

"We take a holistic approach. We're not just looking at the issue but why it's happening," she said.

"We do a lot of education to get the

"Parents shouldn't suffer in silence - there is help out there," she said.

"If you are concerned about your children's continence or bet wetting, it's worthwhile coming in. We could even set your mind at ease."

There is no need for a referral from your doctor.

Experience and knowledge is what sets Fitwise apart.

Their staff not only have a passion for women's, men's and children's pelvic health - but they have the qualifications behind them so you can trust you have the most up-to-date evidence based information at hand.

Fitwise Armadale 1095 (Rear) High Street, Armadale 9822 4999 www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

If in doubt,

use this app HOSPITAL waiting rooms aren't places you want to be on a good day - and it's somewhere you don't want to be waiting hours and hours to see a doctor during the holiday season.

Your local clinic is closed for the holidays but you need to see a doctor so you bundle the kids into the car and head to your closest emergency department. And you wait. And you wait.

There has to be a better way. And there is ...

One video call on the My Emergency Dr app allows you to speak to a specialist emergency doctor who can assess your child and tell you whether a visit to the hospital is absolutely necessary.

They can even organise a prescription to be sent to your nearest open pharmacy to be picked up at your earliest convenience.

Sound too good to be true? It's not.

My Emergency Dr has been running the service since 2016 and they've helped thousands of people across Australia.

Normally it's a paid service, but

eligible residents in the Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network catchment area (Eastern and North Eastern Melbourne) using the service after hours can access it for free until May 2019.

My Emergency Dr CEO, Dr Justin Bowra said the app was developed by a group of Australian emergency department doctors as a way to improve access to emergency care and alleviate pressure on public hospital emergency departments.

"When your GP is available, we recommend that you talk to your GP as usual," Dr Bowra said.

"But this service is there to help with those times when your GP is not available and you're just not sure if you need to go to the emergency department."

All doctors on the app are specialist emergency doctors. This means they are not junior doctors, they are not doctor-in-training, they are the doctors who run emergency departments and in fact they are among the most senior emergency doctors in Australia.

The summer holiday season is usually a quiet time for most businesses, but Dr

Bowra says it can be among the busiest times in Emergency departments.

And the long wait times are a good excuse as any to stay away.

At this time of year Emergency Department waiting rooms are filled with unusual things such as injurieseven Dads with skate board injuries from their children's presents," he said.

Dr Justin Bowra

"And that's on top of the usual stuff that comes in, and also all the people who would like to go to their usual GP but can't get an appointment.

"If in doubt use the My Emergency Dr smartphone app or simply call 1800 000 633 (1800 000 MED) - don't go to your local emergency unless it is clearly something that needs immediate attention."

My Emergency Dr looks after all age groups; whether babies and children with rashes or fevers, infections, gastroenteritis; or dads with skateboard injuries; or grandparents with medication issues. Please visit the website to see if your suburb qualifies for the free funded service under the Eastern Melbourne PHN initiative. Fees may apply for other users. https://www.myemergencydr.com.au/

This after hours medical service is provided at no cost to eligible residents of Eastern and North-Eastern Melbourne.* 12396309-RC37-18

*Terms and conditions apply. Check if you are eligible at www.myemergencydr.com.au

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

SUMMER 2018/2019 19

Dr Kataria says he and his team all too often see adult's orthodontic problems that could have been fixed earlier in life.

ACT NOW TO save IS your child hild d llosing i tteeth th and d new tteeth th are not coming out at all? Or are they coming out twisted? Are they losing teeth in the wrong order? Does your child suck their thumb? Or breathe through their mouth?

If so, it's time to see Dr Gopal Kataria at Anglehouse Orthodontics.

"Sometimes children's teeth start to fall out in the wrong order," Dr Kataria said.

"This results in the remaining teeth shifting into the gaps, leaving no room for new teeth. If we screen children when these problems first arise, we are able to identify and address them

pain and money LATER

before they cause long term issues." b f th l t i " And that's why you should take your child to an orthodontist when they are between 7- 11 years of age.

Dr Kataria says he and his team all too often see orthodontic problems that could have been corrected at a much earlier age. Straight forward early intervention treatment can help to prevent complicated braces treatment requiring extractions and even jaw surgery as an adult.

Starting the process early does not mean a child will commence treatment straight away.

It jjustt means th there iis a chance h tto determine if problems exist and determine the best time to start correcting them.

While parents are usually pretty good at taking their children to see the dentist every six months, Dr Kataria says the orthodontist is just as important.

At your first visit to Anglehouse Orthodontics an XRay is taken of your child's jaw in order to see teeth developing inside the bone. That helps Dr Kataria identify any issues and as a result he can put plans in place to guide jaw growth, lower the risk of trauma and avoid the need for

extraction or jaw surgery later t ti j l t on.

He can also identify the constriction of the upper jaw caused by thumb sucking or fingers in mouth and set up ways to break these habits and improve the appearance of protruding teeth.

"Early intervention is really important," Dr Kataria said.

"Not only does it allow us to set the foundation for correcting problems but it ensures our children's health, self esteem and well being are a priority".

Anglehouse Orthodontics 7 Whitehorse Road, Balwyn 9817 6427

Specialist Orthodontist creating Beautiful Happy Smiles

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Phone: 03 9817 6427 Email:info@anglehouseorthodontics.com.au | www.anglehouseorthodontics.com.au 20 SUMMER 2018/2019

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Education

A school made for children with

learning difficulties Andale School With class sizes limited to 12 students, Andale is able to offer individualised education programs to help each child thrive in the classroom ANDALE School is a small and independent school that specifically caters for children with language and learning disorders who aren't able to learn effectively in a mainstream setting.

arts and sports programs, including swimming lessons at the Kew Recreation Centre.

With class sizes limited to 12 students, Andale is able to offer individualised education programs to help each child thrive in the classroom.

Ms Cotter said these classes were great for students' physical coordination and self-esteem.

Andale teachers have undergone special training, and the school even has a speech therapist on staff to support its learning programs.

Principal Marg Cotter said students were taught at their own level and pace.

"We use individualised education programs to capitalise on the students' strengths and build their weaknesses," she explained.

Students are also offered performing

The small learning environment is also beneficial for children with language and learning difficulties, who can find themselves overwhelmed by the amount of faces and noise at mainstream schools.

But one of the best things about Andale School is the friendships students make - real friends who they look forward to seeing every day because they have fun, laugh and learn together Andale School is located at 84 Charles Street, Kew. For more information, phone 9853 3911 or email andaleschool@andale. vic.edu.au

LEX I

SCHOOL OF MODERN GREEK

“Experience Greek language & culture in a fun, interactive environment.”

GREEK CLASSES FOR PRE-SCHOOLERS 1 TO 5 YEARS ACCOMPANIED

BY PARENTS KINDER-SECONDARY CLASSES AVAILABLE

CEED;; FED:I E7AB;?=> FH;IJED H?9>CED: BALWYN NORTH FOR DETAILS CONTACT MARY BEd EVIE BA, BTech 0425 857 466 0407 916 518 www.lexischoolofmoderngreek.com.au Balwyn North

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Catering for students from Prep to Year 8, the school's curriculum focuses on developing literacy, numeracy and social skills.

On top of that, Andale also brings in experts to run hip hop dancing and karate classes.

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www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

SUMMER 2018/2019 21

Education

TOYS THAT enrich

and educate CHILDREN particular age and type of child.

WINDMILL Educational Toys and equipment is a wonderful toy shop located in Mont Albert.

Windmill opened in 1977, the aim was to source and supply good products that met a variety of educational needs and enrich the lives of children.

It's a family run business that has been supplying quality educational toys and equipment for 41 years.

There are also Windmill stores in Adelaide and Tasmania.

When it first opened in 1977, the aim was to source and supply good products that met a variety of educational needs and enrich the lives of children.

Owners Annabel and Roger Richards annually visited toy fairs in Melbourne, Europe and Hong Kong and had an expert understanding of the types of products that were available.

Having three children of their own they saw a need for better products with educational value to be available in Melbourne at that time.

The Richards' built their business up and at its height it was providing a wide range of products to parents, kindergartens, child care centres and schools throughout Australia.

Windmill stuck to its goals of providing for educational needs and

There are a great many products to choose from in different categories including: art materials and craft kits, outdoor playthings and sports equipment, toys for babies and early years, vehicles and train sets, construction sets, dolls and accessories, doll houses, puppets, animals, play sets, percussion instruments, maths and literacy teaching aids, science kits, special needs products and play furniture, including children's stoves and lovely wooden Australian made children's tables and chairs.

Windmill is also a member of the independent Toy Specialists of Australia (ITSA) and there are many great new products in the Windmill shop that were specially selected by the ITSA members for the Christmas Catalogue.

they developed a very good reputation with specialists such as physiotherapists.

Through these relationships they became able to provide a range of products that cater to a variety of individual special needs such as autism and different physical and mental handicaps.

Windmill also has its loyal customers

and the shop has provided for generations of families looking for good quality presents at a reasonable price.

Many of the present day customers have fond memories of receiving toys from Windmill when they were children.

The shop staff are always ready to suggest a product that will suit a

Windmill still tries to focus on education and as well as fun and stimulating toys. There are a number of teaching resources to help develop children's, reading, writing and mathematics and other cognitive skills.

591 Whitehorse Road, Mont Albert 9830 4336 www.windmill.net.au

Bright, modern take ON PRE-SCHOOL WHEN Linda Belli became a mum, she desperately needed a break - but didn’t necessarily want to send her to child care.

She hoped and wished for a place that she could send her daughter for a few hours where she would be engaged, comfortable and happy while giving her that much needed break.

library and a music room.”

That was nine years ago - and since then Belli and her team at Bubbles Pre-School have created a beautiful space with a really lovely vibe.

“We really pride ourselves on teaching children the importance of being kind and thoughtful,” Belli said.

So when her daughter reached primary school, she took the plunge and created her very own dream ‘preschool’.

“It’s a big focus for our teachers, as they know that the first five years of a child’s life is when they form the foundational core of who they are.”

“I had no teaching experience, had never worked in the education sector, so I approached it from a parent’s perspective,” Linda, more affectionately known as Belli, said.

The relationships between the children and teachers are really special, but it’s also the relationships with parents that makes Bubbles Pre-school such a lovely place to be.

“It had to be somewhere where I would have wanted my daughter to go. Somewhere really homey, bright, clean, beautiful, modern, but not coldly so, and rather than having a bunch of rooms, I thought it would be fantastic to have an art room and a

But watch this space, next year Bubbles will be introducing a suite of mini-classes which will include 40 minute cardio class where mums and dads can come along with their 3-4 year old and exercise together to music.

Other mini classes include a two-hour class called ‘I Make Stuff’ for kinder aged children where they can make/ construct/build their little hearts out and an hour-long ‘Granddies’ class specially designed for grandparents to enjoy with a grandchild. There will be eight

different classes on offer - so there will be something for everyone.

Bubbles Pre-School 168-172 Waverley Rd Malvern East, 3145 T: 9572 1995 www.bubbles-preschool.com

591 Whitehorse Road, Mont Albert, 3127 Phone: (03) 9830 4336 &KULVWPDV &DWDORJXH SURGXFWV QRZ LQ VWRUH

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Education

TEACHING THE

craft of music DO you want your child to learn the craft of music?

Latitude Music Studios teaches their students the fundamentals behind the music.

Owner Rosa Kang has worked in a variety of education scenarios and classes at Latitude Music Studios are inspired by a "whole child approach" to teaching.

"We focus on their interests and needs whilst integrating their physical, creative, and cognitive capacities into their music programs," she said.

"We provide resources and opportunities that promote a deeper understanding of music."

Empowering students to take control of their own learning, Latitude's one-on-one tutelage is based on individualised lesson plans that are designed in collaboration with the student.

Latitude Music Studios teach the craft of music.

"Our role is to provide students with

strong foundations, a great technical toolkit - we give them autonomy in their learning because this fosters engagement and enjoyment, which go hand-in hand with progress," she said.

"We provide a safe and fun learning environment that fosters great results."

Pablo Picasso summed it up best when he said: "Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist."

Latitude Music Studios promote a scaffolding learning approach because setting up strong foundations allows students to have more autonomy in their learning.

This promotes student engagement and enjoyment, which go hand-in-hand with progress.

Each prospective student will receive a free introductory consultation.

Latitude Music Studios 431 Canterbury Rd, Surrey Hills 8529 0770

“Setting the tone for a love and understanding of music that lasts a lifetime.”

Latitude Music Studios offers classes in : ~ piano ~ violin ~ viola ~ trumpet ~ ~ cello ~ theory ~ VCE Music ~ Opening Hours: Monday — Friday: 3pm-9pm Saturday: 8am — 6pm

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Free Initial Consult. By Appointment Only.

For enquiries and enrolments call 8529 0770 or 0401 913 330, or email info@latitudemusicstudios.com.au Located at 431 Canterbury Road Surrey Hills Visit www.latitudemusicstudios.com.au

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

SUMMER 2018/2019 23

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A Taste of ELC

Genazzano invites you and your child to experience a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Taste of ELCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; within our Early Learning Centre environment. An excellent Early Learning program can be transformative for inquisitive learners, and this is your opportunity to experience our creative play based learning approach in action.

There are limited places available in our outstanding 3 and 4 year old co-educational programs in 2020.

Register today at genazzano.vic.edu.au or phone 03 8862 1207 24 SUMMER 2018/2019

Taste of ELC Open Morning Friday 8 March

Junior School Open Mornings Friday 1 March Wednesday 27 March

All tours start at 9:30am www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Education

GIVE YOUR DAUGHTER THE

confidence to reach for the stars WE ALL want what is best for our daughters so when choosing a school, it's important to find one that gives her the opportunity to grow, develop and achieve ultimate success, whatever that may be.

The Junior School at Genazzano FCJ College caters for students from Prep through to Grade Six. It focuses on exposing girls to a broad and diverse curriculum that not only fosters a love of learning, but helps them think critically and creatively.

Head of Junior School, Mary Jones says being an all-girls school allows students to follow their dreams - no matter how aspirational.

"For us that means for our girls there are no limits, no boundaries, no stereotypes," Mrs Jones said.

"Our girls get a lot of opportunities to explore and if you have a daughter who likes to put herself out there, there are multiple ways for her to engage in a broad and stimulating learning experience."

The collaborative approach to learning in the Junior School means that teachers work together to find the best possible educational outcomes for each student.

They understand that students grow and learn at different rates and provide support and direction that allows the girls to achieve success.

The Junior School is one of the first in Australia to apply and actively promote the Flow Theory approach to learning.

Based on the work of Mihalyi Csikszentmihalyi, and with its roots in Performance Psychology, Flow Theory is premised on the belief that learning best occurs when students engage in activities that are at the peak of their abilities, when they have to work to their full potential to accomplish a task.

"You'd know yourself when you become so engrossed in what you're doing - you lose all consciousness of everything else," Mrs Jones said.

"And we find that when we can get our girls into that sweet spot, their learning absolutely flies. They become fully engaged in the learning."

Grounded in the Catholic faith and the principles of the Faithful Companions of Jesus, you can be sure that your daughter will have the confidence to do whatever she sets her mind to at Genazzano.

GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE 301 COTHAM RD, KEW VIC 3101 8862 1000

Ashburton’s

CHRISTA CAMERON YOUTH BALLET COMPANY

The Nutcracker A magical Christmas treat!

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See the Movie, Then See the Real Thing!

Thinking of a new bike for Christmas?

Come in and browse – don’t buy a cheap bike that your children will outgrow.

Join Clara on her exciting Christmas adventure as she frees her Nutcracker and travels on a magical journey to the Land of Sweets. Performed by talented young dancers.

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Entertainment

ENROL NOW TO CHRISTA Cameron School of Ballet has been dancing in Canterbury for over 30 years.

And now is the perfect time to enrol for classes next year.

The Christa Cameron School of Ballet has trained over 3000 young dancers, and is regarded as one of the leading classical ballet schools in Australia.

Many of their dancers have gone onto have successful careers in Australian Ballet, West Australian Ballet, Queensland Ballet, Birmingham Royal Ballet, Sydney Dance Company, New York and various other companies throughout the world.

Classes are available for Sugarplum Ballerina's, and owner and principal Christa says her school provides classes for more serious, career-minded dancers too.

dance IN 2019

"I'm sure that the Sugar Plums, and even some of their parents, would have no idea the high level that is going on in the older classes," she said.

"I think we do that really well - the younger children are coming in to experience their first try of ballet and come along once a week, but as they get older those students who are career-minded can come six times a week."

Numerous dancers trained by Christa have go on to join professional ballet companies across the world.

That should come as no surprise, with the school's students receiving outstanding results in the Royal Academy of Dance levels.

Those levels are far exceeding scores by students both in Australia and the world.

NUTCRACKER Members of the public are invited to view Christa School of Ballet's public performance of Nutcracker on December 18.

The traditional Christmas performance is a lovely first theatre experience for children who like the ballet.

Different dance styles, including contemporary, tap and acro will also be part of the performance.

For more information, visit the website.

Christa C ameron h as dancing in Canterb been ury for over 30 y ears.

Christa Cameron School of Ballet 9808 8906 info@christacameronballet.com.au www.christacameronballet.com.au/

Perfect parties FOR KIDS WHO LOVE MAKING THINGS SLIME has taken over the world - so why not let it take over your child’s upcoming birthday party.

The Art Factory gives kids a hands-on party experience like no one else - where your child not only gets to come away with something special they have crafted themselves - but they learn new skills along the way.

Emma Light, Victorian College of Art graduate and artist, started The Art Factory in 1999 and has been sharing her passion for all things creative ever since.

“It’s a nice change from noisy, rowdy parties,” Ms Light said.

“Kids can come along and have a good time and leave with something they’ve made themselves.”

All parties at The Art Factory are led by an artist party host who engages with the kids and works with them for the duration of the event.

And while slime parties are the most popular at the moment, The Art Factory can tailor parties to suit your child’s interests.

“It’s perfect for kids who love making things,” she said.

“And it’s not just for the younger kids, we cater for teens too - they can make pillows, mosaic or canvas artworks.”

Catering for kids aged 2-5 and 5-12, The Art Factory holds classes during the day for the younger category and after school classes for the older kids.

They also run school holiday programs and even go into local schools to share their knowledge.

The Art Factory Three locations in Malvern, Balwyn and Essendon 9576 0135 www.theartfactory.com.au

Look What I Made!

Art Class will be the highlight of your child's Week

Kiddy Art for Kids 2-5 yrs After School Art for 5-12 yrs School Holiday Workshops Art Parties for Kids 4-14 yrs Mention this advert for a free trial class Balwyn North 249A Belmore Rd Balwyn North VIC 3104

Malvern 28 Glenferrie Rd Malvern VIC 3144

Essendon 307 Buckley St Aberfeldie VIC 3040

info@theartfactory.com.au www.theartfactory.com.au

03 9576 0135

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26 SUMMER 2018/2019

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Entertainment

HANDS ON

fun AND happy MEMORIES TOO LOOKING for a play centre with a difference?

Look no further, this is the play centre you've been dreaming of BASE Camp Kids was opened four years ago to provide hands-on (and slightly) messy fun for children in a clean and friendly environment serving fresh and healthy food (there is no deep fryer there!).

Children can bake delicious goodies, create an art masterpiece or explore science in the baking, art or science parties and workshops.

The focus is on the children developing and exploring these skills in a creative and fun environment.

This popular party venue with baking art and science parties (and

Base Camp isn't just a play centre - it's a learning centre too.

parties playing party games) serves delicious fun party food for the children, like fruit in waffle cones, teriyaki chicken skewers, mini quiches and pinwheel pizzas, while adults enjoy coffees and gourmet savoury platters and wraps.

The workshops are quickly booked out during school holidays and are an ideal excursion during the school term for schools, kindergartens and on curriculum days.

During the weekdays, there are activities that are complimentary with entry, such as sensory play, yoga and music sessions.

BASE Camp Kids also offers Drop-Off sessions during selected weekdays where the children are engaged in

workshops and are provided with snack and lunch.

barista or milkshakes/smoothies made with real fruit.

The massive multi-level playground is specifically designed to look like a rustic cubby house to stimulate the imagination and enable parents to join in the fun - with the first two levels of the playground being 6 feet high - tall enough for most adults to stand under comfortably.

The spacious and clean venue can be hired out exclusively for private functions (with or without catering) including christenings, 40th birthdays, sporting club presentations and other celebrations.

There is also a colourful designated toddler with ride-on cars and baby play space.

BASE Camp Kids has their own chef and on-site cafe, with a great selection of fresh and delicious nut-free, glutenfriendly meals, where you can relax with your loved ones over a decent coffee, some T2 tea made by their

At BASE Camp Kids, it is all about hands-on fun and happy moments with loved ones.

You can follow them on Facebook or Instagram for update or check out their website (basecampkids.com.au) for further details.

BASE Camp Kids Located inside the Nunawading Homemaker HQ 9877 7775

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Book now for a Drop-Off Workshop - Perfect for doing your Christmas shopping in Home HQ!â&#x20AC;?

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SUMMER 2018/2019 27

party time

BORN TO

Offering original and uniquely bespoke themes, Slumber Tribe are Melbourne's premier slumber party specialist.

party

Princess Parties: Princess Parties Melbourne provides the best in professional children's entertainment with beautiful costumes, games, magic, dancing, singing, stories, face painting and more, making any birthday or event magical. Our experienced entertainers have the real ability to transform into all of your favourite characters, all while giving your little one and their friends a day full of fun!

Cheeky Biscuits: Cheeky biscuits started from a passion for baking and styling personalised and unique events within our own families.

We love to customise orders for our clients needs & strive to make each and

every event unique, from private functions to corporate.

Slumber Tribe: Offering original and uniquely bespoke themes, we are Melbourne's premier slumber party specialist.

Made to order quality crafts and activities inspire your child. A magical and memorable slumber party experience for everyone.

Fairy Jasmine Creating a magical and memorable birthday party experience is Fairy Jasmine's speciality.

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THE ZEN DEN The only Balinese Pamper Party ty ty Hut in Melbourne WŝŶŬ >ĞŵŽŶĂĚĞ Θ WĂƌƚLJ ^ŶĂĐŬƐ ͮ &ůƵīLJ WŝŶŬ ZŽďĞƐ ZŽƐĞ WĞƚĂů &ŽŽƚ ^ƉĂ Θ DŝŶŝ &ŽŽƚ DĂƐƐĂŐĞ | EĂŝů WĂŝŶƟŶŐ ͮ DƵƐŝĐ Θ DĂŐĂnjŝŶĞƐ ͮ 'ůŝƩĞƌ ,Ăŝƌ ^ƉƌĂLJ ͮ WŚŽƚŽ WƌŽƉƐ 'ƌĞĞŶ &ĂĐĞ DĂƐŬƐ ͮ ƵĐƵŵďĞƌ LJĞƐ | &ĂĐĞ ^ƉƌŝƚnjĞƌƐ Θ ,ĂŶĚ ƌĞĂŵƐ ͮ dĞŵƉŽƌĂƌLJ dĂƩŽŽƐ ͮ WŚŽƚŽ WƌŽƉƐ 'ŝŌ ĂŐƐ ŝŶĐůƵĚĞĚ ͮ zK ĂŬĞ ͮ ϱͲϭϮ 'ƵĞƐƚƐ͕ ϭ͘ϱ ŚƌƐ

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guaranteed to put a smile on every child's face.

Fairy Jasmine will travel to all areas around Melbourne. Book now!

Fairy Cool Parties make it easy for you, whether they come to you in your home or you visit their venue. So if you want a glamour party, a disco party or a character party we can either come to you or come to their venue @ 119 Bulleen Road, Balwyn North. They only ever hold one function at a time, meaning you will have exclusive use of the venue for your booking, and there's nothing to clean up!

Gourmet Kids: Do you want a party with a difference?

A Gourmet Kids, cooking party is great fun, whether you're getting your hands sticky and licking the spoon, or watching the kids cook up a storm in our safe, supervised kitchen. They also provide school holiday programs and cooking classes for your budding chef.

Amazing co Mobile kids parties are the easiest way to create a special memory. We've helped parents all across Australia plan and deliver themed parties that become the envy of their guests. Let us create something special for you. whether you want a balloon twisting party, cooking party or even a science party. Just give Amazing.co a call.

Vonvy Nail Spa: Give your child the pamper party they really want at Vonvy Nail Spa. Lee and the girls will provide 1.5 hours of pampering including manicures, nail paint and foot spa's. Your child and guests will leave feeling amazing and ready to party!

Whipped Up: Combine the catering and entertainment of your child's next birthday party with Whipped Up's sweet and sticky cooking parties! We provide all the ingredients and equipment, all you need is an oven. Whipped Up also hosts school holiday classes in Caulfield.

FANTASTIC COOKING PARTIES! Do you have a budding Masterchef in the house? Is it their Birthday?

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The best in professional party entertainment bringing your favourite characters to you. Make any event magical all with games, magic, dancing, singing, stories, face painting and more!

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Parties, School holiday Programs and Cooking Classes We can also come to you!

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Amazing Kids Parties – Over one Million kids entertained

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Our entertainers come to you and host a party your child won’t forget!

Australia’s premier kids party provider with over 1 million kids entertained!

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Call Lee for any enquiries: 9995 6246 236 Glenferrie Rd, Malvern | Follow us on

info@slumbertribe.com.au www.slumbertribe.com.au

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MINIMUM 6 GUESTS

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party time

CAKES MADE TO ORDER AT

Cooper and Milla's IF you're ' after ft a personalised li d children's hild ' birthday cake, look no further than Cooper and Milla's Toorak.

it li d O Of A Ki d cakes k its P Personalised, One-Of-A-Kind since Dorothy took over the much-loved cafe in January.

The gourmet cafe and caterer can make the cake of your dreams, exactly how you want it to look and taste, no matter how complex.

"We have amazing cakes - I've never had anything like them before," Dorothy, who was trained in Toulouse, France and in one of the best restaurants in Melbourne's own 'Little Italy' Lygon Street, said.

All you need to do is simply outline the design, provide a budget and advise of any dietary requirements.

With an extremely talented pastry chef, no cake request is too difficult for Cooper and Milla's.

"If we have enough notice, we can do anything," Owner and Manager Dorothy said.

"We recently made a cake that was vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free and nut-free - that's just about everything a cake is not supposed to be, but we made it happen and the client was extremely happy."

Cooper and Milla's is renowned for its catering, take-home food and delicious cafe fare and coffee.

There has been a renewed focus on

Copper and Milla's Toorak.

"The cakes and the coffee are what attracted me. Everything is made with care, just like we would do for our own family" Recent cake designs requested by parents include Dorothy the Dinosaur, Lightning McQueen and Pinata cakes with surprise centres.

Cakes with simple designs, such as unicorns, can be made to order with a week's notice.

A month's notice should be given for larger and more complex designs.

Cooper and Milla's 531 Malvern Rd, Toorak Phone: 98279002 Email: coopermillastoorak@gmail.com Website: www.cooperandmillas.com

Let us create your

Fairy Cool Children’s Party Venue MOBILE PARTIES

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VENUE PARTIES

Le eav ve The Me ess And d Stre ess To o Us s

whippedup.com.au /kidsclasses Cooking Birthday Parties

Spreading Party Magic all over Melbourne Do you want a magical party for your child?

– Book Fairy Jasmine – so many characters to choose from!

Sit back and relax and let Fairy Jasmine work her magic. She will come to you!

Website: www.fairyjasminesentertainment.com www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Contact: jasminedare@hotmail.com

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FAIRY JASMINE’S ENTERTAINMENT

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531 Malvern Rd, Toorak 9827 9002 SUMMER 2018/2019 29

Entertainment

Farewell summer in style

Malvern - YOUR ONE-STOP Christmas destination

WITH more than 500 shops, restaurants, cafes and services Glenferrie Road Malvern is your one-stop destination this Christmas.

Free parking is easy and unbelievably convenient.

Ambience, architecture and character built up over generations make the area not only unique, but a place you want to be.

NOBODY likes saying goodbye to summer ... the warm nights, days on the beach are enough to make anyone want to follow the sun.

But there's one way to farewell the warmer months in style - at the Ashburton Last Weekend in Summer Festival.

Held on Sunday 24 February from 11am-4pm, this unique community event offers a great day out for the whole family.

Organised by the Ashburton Traders Association, this fabulous free event takes place in the Ashburton Village

every year - and it only gets better.

2019 can expect an abundance of rides and amusements, roving entertainers, musical acts and let's not forget the always popular Ashburton Idol.

Find what you're after or lose yourself - just make sure you make the most of Malvern.

The Glenferrie Road Malvern

Business Association are offering Christmas wrapping in the street in return for a gold coin donation.

All money raised will go to local charity KOGO (Knit One Give One) who collect and distribute beautifully hand-knitted and donated clothing, toys and blankets to those in need all over Australia.

Wrapping will be in the precinct daily between 10.30am and 4.30pm from 20-24 December. www.glenferrieroadmalvern.com.au

And who doesn't love gourmet food and trader specials?

There's even a beer garden that will be open from 4pm - 7pm.

With so many reasons to attend the festival - you'd be crazy to miss out.

For more information, visit www. ashburtonvillage3147.com.au or follow them on Facebook or Instagram.

&DQ­W PDNH LW WR RQH RI RXU FODVVHV" :H KDYH EHDXWLIXO FUDIW NLWV DYDLODEOH WR SXUFKDVH DQG NHHS KDQGV EXV\ DOO VXPPHU 9LVLW RXU ZHEVLWH IRU VXSSOLHV RU GURS E\ RQ Friday mornings Open Studio to say hello. The secret is RXW ¨ DQG RXU FODVVHV VHOO RXW IDVW VR MRLQ RXU HPDLO OLVW WR DYRLG GLVDSSRLQWPHQW

The Studio Workshops Level 1/ 120 Fordham Ave, Camberwell Bookings: www.thestudioworkshops.com Social: @thestudioworkshops Enquiries: 0434495263 30 SUMMER 2018/2019

Have you been searching for childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Music classes that are active, affordable, inclusive, packed with instruments and fun for the whole family?

Hawthorn-based JoJoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Music for Kids provides a range of and engaging music classes for children.

They are very happy to offer Prenatal Yoga and Mums and Bubs Yoga classes to Melbourne mums. This is a great way to bond and connect with your child. Light Space invites you to explore the endless beneďŹ ts of Prenatal Yoga and Mums and Bubs Yoga, (from conception through to when your baby learns to crawl).

As well as this, they also offer 9 week Kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Yoga programs at Mitcham for ages 5-14 yrs. old.

Babies and Toddlers (6m-24m) - singing, movement, puppets, and percussion instruments.

Kinder (3-5 yrs) - ukulele, composition, dance and orchestral instruments.

Multi-age (0-5 yrs) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for families who would like to learn together.

Primary (5-8 yrs) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; fun afternoon ukulele classes.

Jo Kitley has been teaching Music to children in a variety of contexts for over 20 years including 10 years of classroom, choral and instrumental music at Xavier College. Jo is also experienced with children who have additional needs.

Summer Classes Thursday and Friday mornings in January (See our Facebook page for further details) Term 1 2019 classes commence Tuesday 29, January.

Contact Details: Jo Kitley BMus(Hons), MEd (Special Education, Inclusion & Early Intervention) Phone: 0409 563 713 Website: www.jojosmusicforkids.com.au Email: jojosmusicforkids@gmail.com Bookings: jojosmusicforkids@gmail.com (Sibling discounts available)

With over 120 classes every week to choose from, across their 3 studios, which includes general Yoga classes such as, Vinyasa, Slow Flow, Yin, Basics and Meditation, there is lots on offer at Light Space Yoga.

Their friendly teachers will guide you through your practice and offer modiďŹ cations and variations for all levels of experience.

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The Studio Workshops is home to unique art and craft classes for kids, teens and adults. Forget daggy craft, this LV WKH SODFH WR ´QG LQVSLULQJ FUHDWLYH FODVVHV LQ D VWXQQLQJ VWXGLR HQYLURQPHQW WKDW \RX ZRQ­W ´QG DQ\ZKHUH HOVH %LUWKGD\ SDUWLHV VFKRRO KROLGD\ FODVVHV DV ZHOO DV VSHFLDO HYHQWV 7KH 6WXGLR :RUNVKRSV LV WKH GHVWLQDWLRQ ORFDOV ORYH IRU DOO WKLQJV FUHDWLYH 6RPH RI RXU IDYRXULWH FODVVHV LQFOXGH ZDWHUFRORXU SRO\PHU FOD\ MHZHOOHU\ FKDUPV SRP SRPV PRGHUQ ZHDYLQJ ODWFK KRRNLQJ SXQFK HPEURLGHU\ gold foil cushions and many more. Book into one of our scheduled classes, or let us cater to your group, either in 7KH 6WXGLR RU ZH FDQ FRPH WR \RX

Created by mother-daughter team, Susan and Clare, Light Space Yoga is inspired by a fresh and contemporary approach to yoga. Each of their studios, in Balwyn, Mitcham and Ivanhoe, have been designed to feel like a little sanctuary where you can nurture yourself, and ďŹ nd some time just for you.

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One of Camberwellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best kept secrets

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Active Kids

Light Space yoga classes are perfect for both beginner and advanced students BALWYN | MITCHAM | IVANHOE Phone (03) 9857 3644 hello@lightspaceyoga.com.au www.lightspaceyoga.com.au www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Entertainment

YOUR

family friendly Suzanne Murphy can provide children's furniture that suits your needs.

Custom Kids Furniture MADE WITH QUALITY MATERIALS

ARE you looking for a custom made children's bed that doesn't compromise on quality?

Dreamworld Furniture specialises in custom made furniture made from only the best materials.

Owner Suzanne Murphy says attention to detail and the ability to provide truly customised furniture is what sets her business apart from her competitors.

"I'm building a bed for a child with Rett Syndrome which means her mother has to lift her in and out of bed, so I've measured the mother so she doesn't have to bend," Suzanne said.

"We've also made beds for other children with severe disabilities that can include sliding gates or safety rails.

"We can work with you to provide what you need."

Dreamworld Furniture can also make beds with adjustable heights - removing the need to buy a toddler bed, instead allowing a child to move straight from the cot to a regular bed.

Suzanne says the most important thing when buying bedding is stability.

A

"It's a really important for parents to ensure the bed they buy is stable," she said.

"This is because parents lie down with their kids or the kids jump on the bed.

"Our beds have slats in two pieces, which make them very strong and reduces the risk of injury."

Dreamworld Furniture has been running for 48 years and 31 of those in Nunawading - and experience counts.

That's why Suzanne and her team not only deliver the beds, but put them together - all while getting your child involved in the process.

"I like to say this is your big boy's bed," she said.

"It's important for kids to feel comfortable with the change."

They also provide practical storage solutions, bed trundles, bookcases and tallboys.

So if you are looking for custom made furniture in all sizes and made from the finest quality materials - look no further than Dreamworld Furniture.

Dreamworld Furniture 333 Whitehorse Rd, Nunawading 9878 8886

WHEN brothers Jack and Tom Lidgett took over Ashburton Cycles six months ago, they he were excited about growing the community based, family friendly bicycle store.

BICYCLE STORE

d Both had been studying and were ready to jump into the workforce, ready to take on their new business venture together.

They've found a lot of their customers are proud to support a local business.

Brothers Jack an d Tom Lidgett took over Ashburton Cycl es six months ago.

"There are a lot of people who get a lot of joy out of supporting local businesses," Tom said. nt It's something of an investment ae to buy a bike, so Tom and Jack are eager to help customers through the process.

Customers can take their bike for a test run before they buy it, to make sure they're making the right choice.

Something the brothers have noticed since taking over the business is the fact that bikes, and bike-riding, is a lovely activity for families to enjoy together.

Whenever kids visit the store, they inevitably want to try out the bikes on display, and Tom and Jack are always happy to oblige.

They are particularly keen to encourage children to enjoy riding their bikes, and that's why they want parents to make sure they're making the right decisions.

"We sell the the Neo by Apollo range, they are the lightest kids bikes in

Australia," Tom said.

In their experience, kids don't enjoy riding heavier bikes and it becomes difficult for them.

They really want to engender a love for bike riding from a young age, reminding parents to avoid buying cheap toy bikes, and rather invest in a good quality, child's bike.

"They make riding difficult, and they won't enjoy it," Tom said of the cheap bikes.

Customers who mention this article to Tom or Jack, can receive 10 per cent off when they purchase a Neo children's bike.

Ashburton Cycles 277 High St, Ashburton 9885 1716

gift THAT KEEPS GIVING

THERE are few things better than seeing an excited child opening their presents on Christmas morning.

Toys encourages - they get the kids away from the screen and inspire them to use their imagination.

And there is nothing sadder than seeing them get bored of a toy just weeks later.

Whether it's a Wishbone balance bike, a wooden castle or dollhouse, a hand-carved animal, a giant truck, or a play kitchen, you will find unique and traditional wooden toys that will be loved and treasured for many years. All toys are ecofriendly, ethically made, non-toxic and chosen with great care. And all age groups are catered for, starting with organic and non-toxic toys for newborns right up to puzzles and games for children as old as 10.

That's why Honeybee Toys is dedicated to providing toys that stand the test of time and provide imaginative play opportunities with Australia's largest collection of European wooden toys right on your local doorstep.

Owner Melissa said Christmas is the perfect time to buy the type of toys for children that will grow with them as their needs develop. Open-ended play is making a huge resurgence right now as people return to the basics and simple magic of childhood.

"Wobbel Boards are really popular because they can be used so many ways," she said.

"As well as getting kids moving and developing their sense of balance, they can be used in imaginary play, a step up to help at the kitchen bench, a seat, a slide - the options are endless. And Wobbel is great for getting kids up and away from their devices."

And that's exactly what the carefully selected range at Honeybee www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Honeybee Toys was born 15 years ago when Melissa found it almost impossible to find quality wooden toys for her own young children.

"There was a real lack of wooden toys here, even only 15 years ago, only one store in Melbourne stocked a tiny range and there were no online stores at all."

It soon became the dream, not only to source quality wooden toys for their children, but to make them available for like-minded families in Australia.

"I spent a lot of time researching where the best toys were made, most of them came out of Europe and had

never Australia,"" she said said. been in Australia "It was mind-blowing to realise that the only toys I could find here were plastic, often connected to TV programs, and battery-operated.

Where were the classic simple toys that allowed children to be children to be children, to develop language and motor skills, and to imagine for themselves? Where was the magic of childhood?".

So Melissa and her husband Brendan took the plunge, left their jobs, and immersed themselves in the world of handmade toys, they made contact with the very best European toy makers and began importing directly. People in the toy industry shook their heads, they said it couldn't be done. But today

Spiel Gut rainbow toys are really popular .

Honeybee Toys represents 20 of the world's very best handmade toy brands, and supplies toy shops throughout Australia with their natural toy ranges. Their flagship store and first love is right in the heart of Malvern.

Honeybee Toys will be open extended hours over the Christmas period and their friendly staff are more than happy to provide gift ideas for kids of every age; so take a visit and experience the magic of childhood for yourself!

Honeybee Toys 264 Glenferrie Rd Malvern VIC 3144 9500 8632 SUMMER 2018/2019 31

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Christmas gifts TO MAKE THEIR EYES SPARKLE LOOKING for gorgeous and funky gifts for kids this Christmas?

Starting out as the little business that could - from humble beginnings on eBay to a 400 square metre showroom in the heart of Deepdene - Hip Kids has something for everyone.

Owners Sue and David Bennardo started the business 10 years ago when Sue was pregnant.

Soon enough David quit his corporate job to focus on Hip Kids and the business has gone from strength to strength.

"We were searching for fun and unique wooden toys that were not only beautifully designed and functional, but would last the test of time," Sue said.

"We spent countless hours researching and eventually began designing and creating our own range of stylish and inspirational toys and furniture and so Hip Kids was born."

From the moment you walk inside the showroom you are greeted by numerous beautifully made pieces of furniture and toys.

From balance bikes to wooden crafted doll prams, it's clear David and Sue know what they are talking about.

"We design our products under the Hip Kids brand and dispatch Australia wide," Sue said.

"Our most popular products without doubt are kid's beds, tables and chairs and toy boxes."

But as the weather warms up pedal bikes, two-in-one trikes and houses gain

popularity and they are great Christmas presents.

And let's not forget their beautifully crafted cubby houses - perfect for the little prince or princess in your life.

Whichever age group your child falls into, HipKids has the ideal present to make their eyes sparkle.

Mention this ad and received a free wooden vegetable set worth $29.95

when you spend $150.

Hip Kids 50 Whitehorse Rd, Deepdene 9816 8588 www.hipkids.com.au

The pick OF THE BUNCH RAYNERS Orchard offers the opportunity to learn about everyday life on an orchard, how fruit grows and the chance to pick and taste your own fruit.

They also run fruit tasting tours and workshops that teach people how to preserve fruit without chemicals or additives.

Located in the gorgeous Yarra Valley, Rayners offers customers over 450 varieties of fruit.

DIVORCE IS BAD ENOUGH,

why go through court too?

DIVORCE doesn't always have to be messy.

The end of a relationship is hard enough without fighting it out in the courts, causing emotional distress for yourself and your kids.

That's why Spectrum Law and Mediations refuses to go to court.

"I think we've been fed a diet of (TV shows) Suits and LA Law where that's what they do," owner Mary Louise Hatch says.

"It's awful and it's unnecessary.

"Families should be able to go through separation and divorce without going to court."

With more than 20 years of experience as a family lawyer, Mary Louise knows there are better ways.

"We help them resolve their financial settlements and parenting arrangements peacefully and respectfully," she says.

32 SUMMER 2018/2019

Her team helps separating families plan for their future - providing information and advice to those thinking about ending a relationship and what the next steps might be.

Spectrum Law and Mediations will work with you to come to an agreement that is tailored to suit your individual circumstances.

The farm shop features preserves, fresh fruit, sauces, preserving equipment and fruit leathers.

Also available is a function room and cafe which serves farm style meals.

As owner Len Rayner explained, Rayners Orchard has a welcoming family feel and staff share their knowledge with guests from all over the world.

"We have one of the largest fruiting plant nurseries in Melbourne," Len said.

"We want to encourage visitors to

experience the joys of tree-ripened fruit and to educate visitors about everyday farming life, including farming methods and practices, as well as picking, storing and eating a wide variety of fruit."

Rayners Orchard fruit products are free from anything artificial and staff use sustainable farming practices.

"We have 40 years of farming experience and our staff include local people as well as three generations from our family. They all strive to deliver our customers an experience to be remembered," Len said.

Rayners Orchard has their first 'fruits of the Yarra Valley festival planned for February 2019. Len and his team hope to make this a regular event to showcase.

Rayners Orchard is located at 60 Schoolhouse Road in Woori Yallock and is open 9am to 5pm over summer (closed Christmas day).

For more information, phone 59647654.

So if you are looking for a personalised approach that is sensitive to what could be the toughest time in your life contact Mary Louise and her team for an initial complementary discussion.

She could save you thousands in expensive lawyer fees and court costs - and save your family extra heartache.

Spectrum Law and Mediations www.spectrumlawandmediations.com.au 98173480 0425 725 224 www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

reality bites

TAKING THE STRESS OUT OF

early learning

There are some incredible benefits to childcare or kinder, but choosing the right one can be daunting

WHEN the time approaches, it can be stressful for parents returning to work and looking for childcare options for their young child. For some of us, childcare is a necessity.

attended regular, quality early learning are more likely to go on to further education, to be employed, to earn more and have improved health outcomes.

While for others, there's no deadline.

Either way, making the right choice and handing over your child to an educator or choosing the right preschool isn't easy.

There are also benefits for families, communities and the nation including:

That's why DANIELLE GALVIN spoke to David Worland, CEO of the Early Learning Association of Australia, to get some practical tips for parents to make the transition as smooth as possible and how to choose the right place to nurture your child's development and learning.

1. What are some of the signs parents should look out for which could indicate their child might be ready for more, i.e. being bored or acting up at home?

As a parent, there a number of signs that will tell you that your child is ready for kindergarten. They may show signs of boredom at home or start to develop specific interests in different areas.

Observe if your child can sit and remain engaged with an activity for reasonable periods of time. If your child is showing signs of wanting to socialise with others, such as your child readily approaches or talks to other children or adults during visits to the park, then that is a sign they are ready for preschool. Early signs of resilience such as the ability to independently get up from a fall and continue playing also indicate readiness for kindergarten along with the ability to share with siblings, and take turns.

2. What are some of the known benefits to early learning?

There is overwhelming evidence of the positive outcomes of two years of preschool.

For children, two years of quality early learning can assist those who are behind in their learning to catch up to their peers and start school ready together. Also, children who have www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

■ More parents enter the workforce, increasing Australia's productivity.

■ Improvement to Australia's declining school performance in international benchmark testing.

■ The national costs of education, justice and health are reduced resulting in overall savings.

■ Increased net GDP for Australia of up to $30 billion cumulative to 2050 (Price Waterhouse Coopers, 2014).

3. Is there an age at which a child should be attending childcare or kindergarten? Is there research that shows a specific age is beneficial or does it differ from child to child?

The science behind brain development shows that 90% of a child's brain is developed before the age of 5.

Research highlights that the two years before school are optimal for learning essential skills for life. In their 2016 report entitled Preschool - Two Years are Better Than One: Developing a universal preschool program for Australian 3 year-olds - evidence, policy and implementation , the Mitchell Institute's Stacey Fox and Myra Geddes noted that between the ages of three and five years, foundation skills critical for learning are established. Ages three to five years are considered the sweet spot for reducing disadvantage and enhancing readiness for school, setting a child up for life.

4. What are some basic tips for parents, to know how to choose the right childcare centre? It can be a difficult, overwhelming decision!

Start with some research about centres in your local area. Jump online

and check out centre websites, look for statements about their learning philosophy or approach. Go to the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority website www. acecqa.gov.au and click on the link (from the home page) to the National Registers where you can search on a centre to find some key details about its service offerings and National Quality Standard Ratings. Then organise to visit the centre, talk to the staff and during your visit take note of how staff interact with the children.

5. Does it matter how many days a child attends?

Any time spent in quality early learning is beneficial but research generally points to 15 hours a week as being the minimum recommended period.

6. Are there any questions that a parent should definitely ask, when doing a tour of a pre-school, childcare, kindergarten?

Make sure you ask about fees and request services to explain to you how the Child Care Subsidy works. Ask the service about how they communicate with parents i.e. some might have a book where they note the day's activities and messages while others might use an online portal platform like Storypark. Ask about place availability, waitlisting and commencement dates. If your child has any additional physical or intellectual needs then be sure to ask the service how they will cater for those needs. It's really important too to understand the services education and care philosophy. Ask them about their performance against the National Quality Standards.

7. What are some basic tips for easing your child into a childcare environment?

Try to regularly talk to your child about going to kindergarten or childcare and use a positive tone - talk

David Worland, CEO Early Learning Association Australia. about making new friends, the great play equipment and how exciting it will be. Ask your child how they are feeling about it and when the day arrives, be organised by having your child's bag ready with lunch packed (if required as some services provide meals), sun hat etc. It's also important to support your child with conversations about their learning and friendship experiences.

8. Any other tips for parents?

As well as preparing your child, prepare yourself for a time of change by focusing on the positives for your child and family. Kindergarten and childcare is a major first step toward independence for your child and also opens up opportunities for parents such as returning to work, study, or taking on other interests.

SUMMER 2018/2019 33

reality bites

Is your

backyard safe?

By Melissa Grant

Children's Hospital (RCH) Melbourne.

ONE thing kids love about the warm summer months is that they can spend more time playing in the backyard.

Other typical backyard injuries are caused by falling onto concrete, running into gates and falling from fences, fence posts and balconies.

The backyard is a fantastic place for children to explore, learn and have fun, especially with siblings and friends.

Another scary statistic is that the majority of childhood drownings occur in swimming pools.

But the outdoor space can be dangerous for little ones.

It's recommended that children under five years of age be supervised all times when playing outdoors.

Statistics show the most common place for childhood injury is the home, with many mishaps occurring in the backyard or garden.

It's not hard to see why this is the case given the multitude of hazards lurking out the back door.

There are the obvious dangers such as pools, pets, BBQs, sheds and play equipment.

But there are also risks posed by things less noticeable, such as poisonous plants and hanging tree branches.

Trampolines, monkey bars, swings and climbing equipment such as tree houses are the main outdoor play equipment commonly associated with injuries, according to the Royal

Parents should also be selective when it comes to play equipment regardless of a child's age. It's important to consider potential misuse of equipment such as trampolines and swings as well as gaps where limbs may become trapped.

So how do you ensure your backyard is safe?

Here are Kidsafe's tips to avoid child injuries in the backyard

Saving Society Australia checklist ■ Ensure the area is free of drowning hazards. This includes ponds, pet water bowls, and - buckets ■ Make sure play equipment is stable and has no sharp edges, splinters or edges that can come loose ■ Cut off any sharp branches that hang at the child and adult eye level ■ Remove tripping hazards and rubbish ■ Check that plants in your garden aren't poisonous ■ Place play equipment away from paths and solid garden edgings ■ Supervise children on and around play equipment at all times ■ When choosing backyard play equipment for your children, choose equipment that complies with the Australian Standard AS 468

■ Have a safe play area that's separate from hazards like cars, driveways or pools

■ Trampolines comply with the Australian Standard AS 4989 and have safety pads installed to cover the frame and springs

■ Ensure you swimming pool or spa surrounded by a safety barrier that's been checked using the Royal Life

■ Put a soft surface under play equipment over 500mm high to cushion falls

It only takes 20

■ Garages and sheds should be kept locked. Put pesticides, paints, chemicals and other poisons stored in tightly covered, labelled, original containers out of reach of children ■ Store all flammable liquids safely (as per directions) and away from ignition sources ■ Cement in garden statues and bird baths to prevent a crushing hazard ■ Ensure electrical equipment, power points and light switches are protected from the weather ■ Separate pets from children, except when supervised ■ Cover garden ponds and water features with a grate, grill or mesh cover ■ Never leave lawn mowers or other equipment switched on and unsupervised when children are around ■ Ensure children wear hats, shoes and sunscreen when out in the yard.

seconds for a toddler to drown ALMOST 20 children under the age of four drowned last year - the majority of them in swimming pools.

And all it takes for 20 seconds for a toddler to drown.

While that number was down on the previous year, Kidsafe Victoria general manager Jason Chambers says it is an issue that needs to be addressed.

"Drowning continues to be one of the leading causes of accidental death for Australian children under five years of age," he said.

"While safety barriers can be effective in reducing the risk of backyard pool drowning incidents, evidence suggests that a large number of drowning deaths are the result of barriers that are faulty, or non-compliant with Australian standards."

Senator and Minister for Sport Bridget McKenzie said: "We are a nation of water lovers and thanks to decades of campaigning we have brought our drowning rates down - but we need to move the dial even further.

34 SUMMER 2018/2019

■ Check BBQs are stable. If they are movable put them away when not in use

"I urge all Australians to watch their children around water, swim at patrolled beaches between the red and yellow flags, to wear life jackets when on boats and watercraft, avoid alcohol around water and to teach their children about swimming and water safety."

While pool and spa barriers play an important role in reducing the risk of childhood drowning, Kidsafe is reminding all parents to keep an eye on kids around the water.

Common issues with pool barriers include: ■ Gates and doors that don't self-latch or self-close ■ Climbable objects near the barrier, such as pot plants, chairs, pool pumps near the pool barrier which could allow a child to climb over the fence ■ Excess space under the fence, and; ■ Misuse (propping the pool gate open) For more information, visit www. kidsafevic.com.au

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

reality bites

The Sleep Coach ANSWERS Cheryl Fingleson is The Sleep Coach.

By Melissa Grant

what's coming next.

How do you help babies sleep?

EVERYONE needs a good night's sleep.

When you're a parent this can be easier said than done, but there are things you can do to ensure everyone in your family is getting enough shut-eye.

Sleep consultant Cheryl Fingleson has helped hundreds of parents establish gentle and safe sleep habits for their child.

As 'The Sleep Coach', Cheryl works with families to improve settling and sleep techniques, establish good sleeping routines and transition a child from cot to bed.

Often, she says, parents simply don't know how to get their child to sleep and stay asleep.

"The unfortunate thing is there is so little information out there," she said.

"Mums are taught how to fall pregnant, they are taught how to push out the baby, they say they are taught a little bit about settling, they are taught how to feed.

"A lot of people say 'my babies sleep', but often they don't. They think it's a reflection that they are doing something wrong. They need the knowledge that's all."

A certified sleep coach, Cheryl is passionate about babies and sleep and loves seeing the results of her work.

"You go into homes when marriages are falling apart because people can't think straight because of a lack of sleep," the grandmother said.

"You see them a week or two later and you won't believe the change. It's the most beautiful, rewarding thing I could do."

Here, Cheryl answers common questions parents have about children and sleep.

When can I sleep train my baby?

Up until 4.5 months the brain is not developed enough to sleep train.

Prior to that we like to put the baby down so they can sleep on their own.

In the early stages, parents make the mistake of keeping their baby awake too long.

In first few weeks all babies do is sleep and eat. When they get overtired their brain gets wired and they can't fall asleep. It's important to mimic the environment of the womb by keeping them warm and swaddled. From 4.5 months you can start to try and settle.

Babies are like us - they like to know www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

The four key things I tell parents is routine, sleep window, consistency, and drowsy but awake.

Routine is the constant routine of bedtime. If a child is on solids it could be solids, bath, milk, story and then bed.

The baby starts to know what is coming next. Obviously an early bedtime is better or they start getting overtired.

The sleep window is the time the baby starts showing sleep signs. This could be yawning, pulling ears or, if they are a bit older, clumsiness. If they get overtired it's hard for them to fall asleep because cortisone is released and that acts as adrenaline - that's what we call a second wind.

Consistency is simply whatever you do, do it consistently.

Drowsy but awake means they are in this state when they go to bed. We don't want to feed to sleep or rock to sleep.

When we put them in the cot or bed, we want them to be awake. This is because when they wake up from their sleep cycle they will want you to do whatever you did to get them back to sleep.

Sleep regressions - are they real? What should I expect?

I don't like to call them sleep regressions. I like to call them sleep progressions or growth spurts. You invariably find that a baby goes through a growth spurt or milestone, which often affects sleep because they have to practice moves in their cots.

With crawling, for example, they get up and practice crawling in their cot. It's important to keep to a routine during this time, which will pass.

When will my child sleep through the night? How can I help make this happen?

It's a very difficult question. At 12 months, some mums are happy if their child feeds and goes back to sleep quickly.

Some babies can sleep through from six months or even sooner, some take longer, there is no fixed rule.

There are many issues that may affect sleep, such as snoring, colds, teething, reflux, sleep associations and many more.

We always rule out medical issues before sleep training your baby.

It is definitely not advisable for newborn babies to sleep through the night as their stomach is the size of a pea so they need to eat more often two to three hourly.

YOUR QUESTIONS

While babies can sleep through from six months, if the child is underweight the doctor may want the baby to have the extra feed.

How do I transition my child from cot to bed?

I don't like to move a baby from a cot to a bed until they're 2.5 years or 3 years old.

Before this, their brain is not formed enough to keep an instruction for 12 hours. However, if the child is getting out the cot you can transition them for safety.

When you transition, you have to give strict instructions not to get out. The older they are, the easier it is for them to understand. Parents have to be firm in their instructions. Discipline is required to keep them in their bed.

Also, a lot of parents move their child to a bed because they need the cot for their next child. This is not a good reason to transition a child to a bed.

When do children stop napping?

It varies. I believe children need a daily nap or a rest up until when they start kindergarten. Even when they are in kindergarten they still need some naps . But it depends on each individual child.

How much sleep does my child need?

There is no hard and fast rule. Sleep varies from child to child.

The amounts that follow are for a 24-hour period and include naps and the night sleep.

For newborns it's about 17 hours, dropping down to 15 hours. By four months sleep can drop down to 15 hours, including three to four naps.

Those aged six months need around 14 to 15 hours with two to three naps.

At nine months the amount of sleep can drop between 13 to 14 hours with two naps.

This reduces to about 13 or 13.5 hours for children aged 12 to 18 months. Two naps continue until around 15 to 18 months.

From 18 months to 4 years of age, they will go from having 13 hours to 11.5 hours a day. Around the age of 3, toddlers often stop their nap during the day.

Kids aged 5 to 9 years need about 10 or 11 hours a day. From the ages of 10 to 15 years, kids need about 9 to 9.5 hours and most definitely don't get that.

How do I know if my child is getting enough sleep?

If they aren't sleeping enough, they start to have tantrums. You will also see

a change in their moods. It's important to remember that very active children hide their tired signs very well. They are the ones that need the most sleep. The very active children you've got to watch because they need more sleep than the others. Get them to bed at 6.30pm.

What is the best time to send a child to bed?

The best time for kids aged 5 years and under is 6.30pm, or half an hour either side, because of their biological clock. The majority of kids are ready for bed between 7pm and 8pm. Even a 10 year-old should be getting into bed and reading and relaxing at this time.

How can I make my child go to bed earlier?

Just routine. The thing that is difficult is a lot of parents work and they don't pick their kids up until 6pm, so it's difficult to get the kids to bed at 6.30pm or 7pm. A lot of parents don't get their kids to bed until 8.30pm or 9pm. It's too hard for the children and they get used to it. Make sure you plan and get them to sleep earlier. This means preprepared dinners or giving them your leftovers from the night before.

What is the best way to deal with my child's bedtime at daylight savings?

For some children, especially older children, it will make no difference.

You'll just go forward or back an hour.

For sensitive children and those who are highly strung, a week or 10 days before daylight saving start moving their bedtime by 10 minutes for a couple of days, then 10 minutes for another couple of days.

This means when the clocks change you are on the right time. For those children who aren't so sensitive, you can move it 15 minutes and 15 minutes.

It's not difficult. It's good to move it slowly.

My child keeps having nightmares.

What should I do?

There are nightmares and night terrors.

Night terrors are horrible things to go through. It's best to leave them alone, but be there so they don't hurt themselves. Just don't touch them and don't wake them.

With a nightmare, you can wake the child and bring them out of it. It's important not to put the TV on an hour before bedtime. For kids who have nightmares, read them a nice book before bedtime and talk about nice things they've done in the day.

SUMMER 2018/2019 35

Hottest Christmas THERE are so many new toys and games coming out just in time for Christmas.

It's impossible to feature them all, but here we explore some of hottest gifts for kids this festive season.

gifts for kids

HOT WHEELS RACE CRATE The Track Builder Race Crate features three raceways - the Gravity Drop, Mega Jump and Drag Race.

New from Hot Wheels, the crate has been described as the "ultimate party in a box" that combines play and clever storage.

Kids aged 4+ will love the pop-out raceway and array of challenges they can experience using the fair start gate, two-lane loop, finish gate and two double slam launchers.

When they're done playing, the product can be transformed back into a crate for easy pack up and storage.

POLLY POCKET Remember the Polly Pocket? Well, the popular toy of the 1990s is making a comeback!

The race crate features pieces compatible with all Hot Wheels Track Builder lines.

RRP $74.99

The compact micro-scale collectable is back on the shelves - 30 years after its original launch.

The new-look Polly has also had an upgrade - she now comes with new accessories and there are additional pocket worlds to be explored and collected.

Four Polly Pocket products are being released in Australia ahead of Christmas. The range includes Tiny Pocket Place Assortment, Hidden Hideouts Assortment, Pocket World Assortment and Hidden Places Assortment. Mattel will also release an animated series of Polly and friends content in early 2019.

Polly Pocket products range from $8.99 through to $39.99

HIPKIDS CLASSIC STEEL BIKE

HOT WHEELS DIE-CAST Hot Wheels die-cast cars have been igniting kids' imaginations, creativity and fun since 1968. With 400 new designs released each year, the die-cast cars are insanely popular. The cars are segmented into 30 different mini collections, with each collection including themed vehicles ranging from muscle cars, sports cars, race cars, trucks, and trending roadsters.

This adorable classic 12 inch bike comes with a wicker basket and training wheels to make learning to ride a pedal bike even easier. Your little one will love carting around their favourite toy or drink bottle in the wicker basket.

This bicycle also features a comfortable leather-like tan padded seat and stylish leather-like tan handles.

Available at HipKids for $139.95, www.hipkids.com.au

FIRE ENGINE WITH LIGHTS & SOUND BRUDER This unique fire engine has a water tank with real water pump and an extendable ladder with a fire fighter's tilting hose basket. It's just like the real thing! Suitable for kids aged 4yrs + .

Available for $128.95 at Windmill Toys

RRP: $2.99 each

LIL' GLEEMERZ Short for 'little gleaming lemur', Lil' Gleemerz is a interactive toy that talks, plays games and even answers questions.

Aimed at kids aged 5+, the toy has more than 100 reactions and is able to tell knock-knock jokes, answer yes or no questions, light up to the beat of music and sounds and play games.

To set one of its three modes of play, children pat or tap the toy on the back or front of its head, press its nose or squeeze the end of its tail.

The Lil' Gleemerz is 15cm high and comes in a range of colours including teal, pink and purple.

The toy has been hugely popular in the US and is expected to sell quickly in Australia.

RRP $39.95.

WOBBEL BOARD

A fun family game that combines a bit of luck and the physical exertion of completing a yoga pose. Suitable for 5 years +

All the way from Europe, the Wobbel Board gets kids moving. Is it a bridge, a slide or an elephant's back? Wobbel board helps kids find balance. It can be used as a step or seat in the home, and is an awesome addition to open-ended play.

Available for $29.95 at Windmill Toys, www.windmill.net.au

Available for $240 at Honeybee Toys Malvern, www.honeybeetoys.com.au

APOLLO NEO 3 BIKE The Apollo NEO 3 Speed internal geared 24 inch Bike is the lightest kids bike in Australia. With only three gears it introduces your child to bike with gears without confusing them.

Available for $550 at Ashburton Cycles, www.ashburtoncycles.com

YOGA SPINNER GAME THINKFUN

TOwY ay

givea 36 SUMMER 2018/2019

WE'VE teamed up with Mattel to giveaway some great toys ahead of Christmas.

We're giving a way: ■ 2 X Polly Pocket packs (each featuring Tiny Pocket Places & Beach Vibes Hidden Places) ■ 4 X Lil' Gleemerz ■ 4 X packs of Hot Wheels Diecast For your chance to win, visit www.starcommunity.com.au/ competitions and search for Kids Toy Giveaway Hurry - entries close December 12!

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

books

The sequel to Up the Duff released away with.

AUTHOR Kaz Cooke is back with a new sequel to her bestselling guide to pregnancy, Up the Duff.

It's your kid's job to test the boundaries so they know where they are, and your job to keep the boundaries clear.

Stonnington Boroondara Kids readers are lucky to have access to an extract of her new book Babies & Toddlers.

Set some reasonable goals early on - these can start when your child is 1 or 2 and build through their preschool years.

There are around 1.4 million babies and toddlers in Australia with more than 310,000 babies expected to be born next year. Although we've been parenting forever, there has never been a more complex, contradictory and confusing time in which to do so.

As a former journalist, Kaz has done all the hard work to find what parents need to know. She's sorted through the conflicting advice, consulted hundreds of parents, grandparents and carers, spoken with more than 30 medical experts and other top specialists, kept on top of the latest government health recommendations and safety guidelines, and waded through all the internet blather to identify the waybonkers stuff to avoid.

Here are some approaches you might find useful: ■ Think of your child as your ally or apprentice, not the enemy ■ Show your child the right way to behave ■ Help your child learn when a behaviour is wrong and why

The sequel to Up the Duff is out now.

'Discipline' sounds a little bit like what English politicians get up to in expensive London dungeons with bored ladies called Mistress Nannypants.

WHAT IS DISCIPLINE?

Try to think of yourself as a coach, not a punisher.

WHEN people talk about discipline they often just think it means punishment.

It's impossible for a child to have the mental capacity to put themselves in your shoes.

The point of discipline is not to punish a child but to teach them to behave with kindness and consideration, and to understand the rules.

But you can try to imagine you're a child attempting to work out the right way to behave - or what you can get

■ Recognise that your child may not understand or care why they're supposed to behave in a certain way. Explain when you can, but 'That's the rule' is a shorthand response. Toddlers are learning to be logical, but they're not there yet.

Kaz Cooke. overwhelmed by trying to remember 56 rules

■ Give your child choices of things that don't matter. 'Apple or pear?' but not 'Sit still or hit your sister'

■ Be clear that the aim is for your child to understand what are the right things to do, not to humiliate them or make them feel inadequate or guilty when they do something wrong.

■ Establish a small core of simple ground rules that are consistently observed, such as bedtime is 7 o'clock, no hitting, and you don't get what you ask for if you use a whingey voice - so the child isn't

This is an extract from Babies & Toddlers, Kaz Cooke's brand new sequel to her bestselling guide to pregnancy, Up the Duff. Published by Penguin Random House and out now, RRP $39.99.

Children's Christmas books..

Dear Santa

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Macca's Christmas Crackers

Elise Hartley & Shannon Horsfall

Johnny Marks, illustrated by Louis Shea

Matt Cosgrove

Dear Santa is a great book to read at Christmas time and features (you guessed it) letters to the jolly man who wears a red suit.

Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without a rendition of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

Kids will love pulling letters out of the envelopes and lifting the flaps to discover what the various animal characters want for Christmas. Skunk naturally wants perfume (among other things) and then there's mouse who last year accidently asked for a cat instead of a car.

A funny and beautifully illustrated book that's perfect for the festive season.

Scholastic, RRP $17.99

This book comes with a CD recording of the popular festive tune performed by singer and actress Penny McNamee.

Funny illustrations run alongside the lyrics to breathe new life into the well-known song, which was composed by Johnny Marks way back in 1949.

A great book for kids who love Rudolph or are discovering the red-nosed reindeer for the first time.

Scholastic, RRP $19.99

Hopping around the Christmas Tree

Excuse Me, Santa!

John Marks & Benjamin Johnston

Dave Hughes & Holly Ife, illustrated by Philip Bunting

Aussie animals abound in this Christmas title which comes with a CD that will have the whole family singing along.

Kids will love this funny flatulence story, which is a Christmas sequel to the bestselling Excuse Me!

Bursting with colourful and cracking illustrations, this title explores friendship, creativity, generosity and the spirit of giving.

The book is colourfully illustrated accompanied by lyrics to the song Hopping Around, performed by Colin Buchanan. The song will sound familiar - it's a rejig of the classic Christmas hit Rockin' Around.

With its simple and rhyming text, this Macca's Christmas Crackers is perfect for pint-sized readers.

There are cockatoos, kangaroos and crocodiles hopping right into the Christmas fun.

In this explosive tale by TV/ radio personality Dave Hughes and wife Holly Ife, a girl with impeccable manners called Martha May unexpectedly meets Santa. He is clearly hungry, so Martha May decides it's a good idea to offer him some of her Great Aunt Edith's Christmas Pudding.

Scholastic, RRP $17.99

With fun animal characters and easy to read print, this title is great for younger readers.

Macca the alpaca is back for Christmas! Turns out the lovable character is Christmas obsessed and loves dressing up as Santa.

Macca's Christmas Crackers follows the hugely popular Macca the Alpaca and Alpacas with Maracas books.

The thing is Martha keeps feeding Santa pudding until (you guessed it) there is a loud explosion.

Scholastic, RRP $17.99

Scholastic, RRP $19.99

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Summer 2018 CALENDAR

DECEMBER

14: Christmas craft morning, Greythorn Library

1: Christmas gingerbread house decoration, Balwyn y Library y 12pm

14: Oasis Night at Gumbuya Park

1: Photos with Santa at Kew Court House, 10am - 2pm 2: Hawthorn Makers Market 3: A golden Christmas: The Australian Boys Choir, Hawthorn Arts Centre 3: Carols in Canterbury Gardens 5: International Volunteer Day 5-8: Convent Kids presents I Spy, Abbotsford Convent, 1 St Heliers St, Abbotsford, 9415 3600 8: Photos with Santa at Kew Court House, 10am - 2pm 9: Christmas at Central Park, Burke Road, Malvern East, 6.30pm 9: German Baroque Christmas, St Oswalds Church, Glen Iris, 2.30pm 10-16: Gumbuya Park celebrates it's birthday www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

15: Join us in Ashburton for your Christmas Shopping this year and be greeted by Giant Candy Canes and Giant Elves.

22: Join us in Ashburton for your Christmas Shopping this year and be greeted by Giant Candy Canes and Giant Elves.

19-21: Boroondara Tennis Centre Junior Christmas holiday camp 25: Christmas Day 22-24: Boroondara Tennis Centre January junior holiday camp 22-25: Your Story Garden by Kids' Own Publishing, Abbotsford Convent, 1 St Heliers St, Abbotsford, 9415 3600

15: Family Shopping Day event in the Camberwell shopping precinct, http://camberwellshopping.com.au/

26: Australia Day 30: Boroondara Tennis Centre Term 1 coaching starts

15: Boroondara Farmers Market

JANUARY

16: Carols at Como Park, Williams Road,South Yarra, 7.30pm

1-24: Lido on the Roof, Lido Cinemas Hawthorn, 8.30pm

18: Nutcracker suite Christa Cameron School of Ballet, The Besen centre Burwood, 6:30pm

7-20: Sensory Art Lab by Slow Art Collective, Abbotsford Convent, 1 St Heliers St, Abbotsford, 9415 3600

19-21: Boroondara Tennis Centre Junior Christmas holiday camp

7-25: Whipped Up! Various dates at the Beth Weizmann Centre, Caulfield2

FEBUARY BUARY

8-10: Boroondara Tennis Centre January junior holiday camp

6-8: Cooking classes by Ella Mittas, Abbotsford Convent, 1 St Heliers St, Abb

15-17: Boroondara Tennis Centre January junior holiday camp

23: Summer Spectacular Camberwell Girls Grammar School Fair, 10am-4pm SUMMER 2018/2019 39

12404218-RC50-18

40 SUMMER 2018/2019

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