Stonnington Boroondara Kids Spring 2019

SPRING 2019

Steve Biddulph on

why dads MATTER

Great prizes to celebrate our first birthday

Spring into the

Tesselaar Tulip Festival A Star News Group Publication

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About Us

A fresh start for spring THERE'S been a 'changing of the guard' of sorts this edition.

I'm back on deck writing for Star News Group's Kids magazines after welcoming my second bub into the world, Asher Brock on 7 March at 3.18pm.

Meanwhile our journalist Melissa Meehan is off settling in to life as a family of four, after miss Ruby Zofia Jones was born on 2 August at 12.51pm (see page 5 for the family picture!).

For me, I feel as though I'm coming out of hibernation, and certainly through the fog of those early newborn days.

We've had a few tough days here and there, with our little guy suffering with reflux and being considered 'growth-restricted' which meant a lot of extra monitoring and a strict feeding schedule when he was born.

But to return to the seasonal analogy, spring does indeed signify a fresh start,

new beginnings and a brighter outlook than a cold, dreary Melbourne winter there's plenty to look forward to.

There's also plenty to celebrate as it's this publication's first birthday!

Our present to you - our loyal readers - is the opportunity to win some amazing prizes, including an IKEA voucher, passes to Silvers Circus, tickets to the Tesselaar Tulip Festival and much more.

You'll find all the giveaway details on page 5.

Our first birthday edition also features a great cross-section of stories.

Entrepreneurial local mum of two, Kate Curry, speaks to us about her business idea to get kids off the gadgets, and Dr Louisa Yim opens up about IVF and why she changed professions during her journey.

With Father's Day in September, renowned author Steve Biddulph shares a story from his father's final days which serves as a beautiful reminder for why

dads are important.We also speak to Stonnington councillor Glen Atwell, who lobbied for a more accessible bathroom facilities, called Changing Places at Chadstone.Turn the pages to our Health section, where we delve into a really important story about perinatal anxiety and depression. We speak to the head of PANDA to help recognise the warning signs, and a Hawthorn mum of two shares her own personal story.

In Reality Bites is a story every parent should read. It's the story of Shaylah Carmichael, the six-year-old who is truly lucky to be alive after swallowing a button battery.

As always you will find a great books section, with a review and some kids books to look out for, and a calendar of upcoming spring events.

Photography Rob Carew Advertising Clare Vane-Tempest clare.vane-tempest@starnewsgroup. com.au Phone: 5945 0666

Seeking help when parenting is tough

Renown Kinder part of Stonnington's social fabric

Advertising Manager Mandy Clark

PAGE 28

Creative Services Manager Chris Beale

PAGE 4

Opening up about post natal depression

Win in our first birthday giveaway

PAGE 19

School mobile phone ban to ring in new year

PAGE 5

WHAT'S ON

PAGE 29

A new changing place for families

Gardening festival for the family

Smart schoolbags on the way

PAGE 6

PAGE 20

PAGE 30

ENTERTAINMENT

Spectacular new creche opens at Bialik

Cookbook queen's road to fame PAGE 8 Getting organised for kids sports PAGE 9 A reputable family car dealer PAGE 10 Role play at Gracie Bullyproof PAGE 11

Get messy at The Art Factory

PAGE 30

PAGE 21

BOOKS

School holidays at Victoria Gardens

A horsey tale for kids

PAGE 21

PAGE 31

Collingwood Children's Farm turns forty

Children's books

PAGE 22

PAGE 31

Let the kids play while you shop

FASHION

PAGE 22

PARTY TIME

PAGE 12

Ready to party

HEALTH

PAGE 23

Steve Biddulph on

why dads MATTER

PAGES 32-33

Great prizes

REALITY BITES

to celebrate our first birthday

Taking the stress out of family travel

EDUCATION

PAGE 14

School Lunch Box dad shares tips

Doctor changes careers during IVF

Recycling oral care waste

PAGE 24

PAGE 35

PAGE 14

Dietitian's simple lunchbox advice

Girl's horror button battery ordeal

The importance of early orthodontics

PAGE 25

PAGE 36

PAGE 15

Childcare with a warm environment

Busy mum delves into kids books

Local gestational diabetes program

PAGE 25

PAGE 37

PAGE 15

Knowbots teach children about the world

Mum's seatbelts for special needs kids

PAGE 34

Spring into the

Tesselaar Tulip Festival A Star News Group Publication

PAGE 37

PAGE 26

Treating unsightly veins with care

TeamKids a top choice for holiday programs

PAGE 16

PAGE 26

Avoiding complex orthodontics

A holiday program where kids are the boss

PAGE 17

Cover The Tesselaar Tulip Festival in full bloom

SPRING 2019

Epworth launches 'mobile midwife'

PAGE 16

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.

Fashionable, ethical swimwear for kids

Tesselaar Tulip Festival in full bloom

Returning to running post baby

Editorial

Phone: 5945 0666

PAGE 18

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

danielle.galvin@starnewsgroup.com.au

Mum's technology solution

Steve Biddulph on why dads matter

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

Danielle Galvin

Enjoy!

CONTENTS IT'S YOUR LIFE

Stonnington Boroondara Kids magazine is a Star News Group publication.

CALENDAR What's on this spring PAGE 39

PAGE 27

stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

facebook.com/stonningtonboroondarakids

instagram.com/stonningtonboroondarakids

It’s Your Life

Kate Curry and her kids.

Picture: Rob Carew

Mum thinks outside the box to create technology solution for families

By Melissa Meehan MANAGING the amount of time your child spends in front of a screen each day is an evolving, growing problem for parents of young children and teenagers.

The latest guidelines suggest most Australian children spend more than the recommended two hours a day glued to a screen - whether that's television, an iPad, a smart phone or an age-appropriate tablet.

For the first time, the World Health Organisation has this year put out recommendations for children's screen time, encouraging less than a couple of hours and, ideally, much less.

For many parents, it's a daily battle constantly trying to remove the everpresent screen from their child's grip.

Many kids would happily watch a show or play a game online for hours if you allowed them to.

It's quite possibly the biggest challenge for parents in this day and age. It is well-documented that too much screen time can have negative impacts over an extended period of time, such as sleeping problems, a loss of social skills and physical inactivity.

That's why entrepreneurial mum of two Kate Curry felt compelled to do something about it.

"As my kids got older and started using tech, I always tried to make sure all of their devices were in the kitchen and never in their rooms," she explained.

"But I'd find the tech all over the house, and sometimes in the bedrooms, and I felt like I was starting to lose control of where it all was."

Hiding the gadgets in cupboards didn't work for long and when the kids would be allowed their iPads or tablets back, the batteries would be flat.

Kate was conscious of keeping the gadgets out of her children's bedrooms to better manage what they were doing online.

So she came up with an idea to create a tech lock-up box with a power board inside.

The first prototype was made in Australia. Since then, it has evolved into today's inchargebox.

There was some important criteria Kate wanted it lockable with a power board to clean up the messy cords she'd grown tired of around the house, and it had to look stylish.

She wanted the box to be something you'd be happy to have on your kitchen bench every day.

The Surrey Hills resident had witnessed friends with older children grappling with some serious screen addictions.

The inchargebox is descried as a 'stylish, lockable steel tech charging station' to lock, store and charge up to 10 tech devices once. It comes in Unicorn White, Black Beauty, Valentino Red and Pink Flamingle!

Kate thought outside the box literally.

It's designed to be stored on the kitchen bench or office, or anywhere

4 SPRING 2019

people would like to charge and lock their tech in one convenient location. It is great to take to holiday houses or on road trips as you can just pick up the box with all the tech in it and plug it back in at your destination. Only one power cord is needed!

Innovation category, and has been nominated in the 2020 Telstra Business Women's awards.

As she says, "people are more important than technology".

- with Danielle Galvin

Kate says it also helps set clear boundaries with tech usage and allows parents to take control of the tech clutter.

"The larger inchargebox fits remotes, iPhones, anything you can charge with a USB port and it also fits in a school laptop," she said.

Parents have also relayed to Kate that they often hear their child's phone ping late at night, and they'd find them up at 3am responding to a text or scrolling, or on social media.

She said as time goes on, the research is emerging about the highly addictive nature of online games and the apps we all engage in everyday.

"The recommendation is no more than two hours a day for school-aged children," she said.

"There's a lot of people doing five hours or more - including teenagers.

"Kids are meant to get nine, 10 hours of sleep a night. Lack of sleep has an awful flow on effect ."

The feedback for Kate's entrepreneurial idea has been incredible. She also donates 10 per cent of all box sales to two charities oneinfive.com.au & forgetmenot.org.au.

She's also a finalist in the AusMumpreneur Awards in the Product

GIVEAWAY WIN AN INCHARGE BOX We're giving away a Unicorn White 10 USB port incharge box, valued at $199.

The incharge box is a stylish lockable steel station that charges up to 10 of your devices at once and helps set boundaries with tech usage.

It is compatible with products from Apple, Hisense, Samsung, HTC, Nokia, LG, Kindle and PS4 remotes.

For your chance to win, visit www.stonningtonboroondarakids. com.au

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

It’s Your Life

Win! Prizes to celebrate our first birthday

baby girl

quality toy store. IRinGO blocks can be used to build 3D structures as well as creations with moveable joints

IT'S our first birthday.

And to celebrate, we've got a heap of awesome prizes to giveaway!

■ A copy Baby Bowl AND 4 Ingredients Kids, from 4 Ingredients cook Kim McCosker

We've teamed up with some great businesses to offer you - our loyal readers - the chance to win some fantastic items and experiences.

To put yourself in the running for any of these awesome prizes, visit our website www. stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au and click on competitions.

We are giving away: ■ A $250 Ikea voucher ■ Four passes (2 adults & 2 children) to Silvers Circus Sesame Street Circus Spectacular

You can enter as many competitions as you like. Just fill out an entry form!

Also be sure to like our Facebook page, where we regularly post our competitions.

■ 10 X family passes (2 adults & 2 children) to the Tesselaar Tulip Festival, held in the picturesque Dandenongs over spring

It's been a pleasure to bring you this magazine over the past year.

■ 2 x full week places for a child and their sibling/friend at Mini Boss Holiday Programs in the week of Monday 30 September - Friday 4 October, run out of Strathcona Baptist Girls Grammar School in Canterbury

Stonnington Boroondara Kids is brought to you by Star News Group - a family owned and independent media company for more than a century.

■ A baby pack featuring Snap & Extend Bodysuit Extenders plus a Nail Snail ■ A Unicorn White 10 USB port incharge box, a stylish lockable steel station that charges up to 10 of your devices at once and helps set

Kids team welcomes a

boundaries with tech usage (valued at $199) ■ An iRiNGO Combi Medium pack from Windmill, a family-owned

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

It's been a huge year and we are excited to be entering our terrific twos!

It's a girl! Kids journalist Melissa Meehan with two-year-old Lilly and newborn Ruby.

SHE'S finally here.

The Kids team is excited to announce a new member to the family.

Melissa Meehan, her husband Brent and daughter Lilly welcomed Ruby into the world on Friday 2 August.

Despite a tough pregnancy, many hospital stays and threatened pre-term labour, Ruby was born a happy and healthy 3.3kg and 49cm long.

She is the final piece of the family who say their hearts are now complete.

And just like her mum, Ruby loves a story with her birth and final weeks inside both a little dramatic and exciting.

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www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

SPRING 2019 5

It’s Your Life

A new changing place for families

By Melissa Meehan

things and through council I have been able to encourage and affect change on things that previously may have gone unnoticed," he said.

FAMILIES who have children with profound disabilities will have access to a newly opened bathroom facility at Chadstone Shopping Centre, a move welcomed by local councillor Glen Atwell.

"Things like introducing a disability drop-off bay outside swimming pools so that people can't get a disability car park out the front can at least do a drop-off and find a car park somewhere else.

The Stonnington councillor's daughter, Ivy, has a rare genetic condition and he had made it his mission to improve the facilities at Chadstone, for anyone with a severe or profound disability.

"It's been really useful to be able to bring that perspective to council, and through council I've been able to advocate for Changing Places."

On his Facebook page, Cr Atwell welcomed the opening of the purpose built bathroom, and said it included a full size, height adjustable bench, hoist, shower, peninsular toilet and retractable privacy screen.

"For us, and other parents with children with profound disabilities, when they outgrow the standard sort of baby change table, there is no alternative for a child with profound disabilities other than being changed on the floor, or a trip back to the car and changing in the boot or back seat," he explained.

"The biggest and busiest shopping centre in the country is now more accessible and inclusive than ever before," he said.

"Those options lack dignity - to think that a child with disabilities has to be ferried back to the car, or changed on the floor of a toilet at a shopping centre.

Cr Atwell says he's become more aware about improving accessibility and facilities in Stonnington after welcoming Ivy. He had been campaigning to build a 'Changing Places' facility at Chadstone, as part of the more recent

s s s s s s s s s s

"So thank you, Chadstone for investing in Changing Places. Thank you for giving people the confidence to know they can go to the bathroom with dignity.

Cr Glen Atwell with his daughter Ivy at the new Changing Places.

redevelopments at the centre.

Changing Places is a project to advocate for public toilets with full-sized change tables and hoists in major public spaces across Australia, to meet

the needs of people with severe and profound disabilities.

"They say the standard you walk past is the standard you accept, and since Ivy I have definitely looked twice at

"And I'll keep working hard to publicly advocate for these facilities to shift from 'optional extras' to 'basic necessities'."

- with Danielle Galvin

Do you know a kid who’s always asking questions like: What exactly is sustainability? or Is Earth really 4.5 billion years old?

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It’s Your Life

IF THERE IS NO DAD Mothers raising sons alone need to know one thing - women can raise boys to be fine men, and have done so for thousands of years.

When I talk to mums whose sons are grown and thriving, they often say they made sure he knew some good men, and that they encouraged granddads or uncles, or chose activities where they would have safe, kind men helping them. That matters most in the mid-teen years when boys are deciding what kind of man they want to be.

What dads do and why it matters so much

In my talks, I always tell the guys that if they are planning a trip or experience with their son to invite along his friend who might not have a dad. We guys have to fill the gaps in the fathering net so boys don't fall through just because their father is not around.

Parenthood is a community job, and if we realise boys and girls both need to know friendly, affirming and interested father figures, then we will have less problems when kids grow up.

They will know what a good man looks like, either to be, or to choose as a partner.

IN the last few days of my father's life, I stayed in the hospital to be near him and we had many great talks.

One day he told me something that happened when I was only a couple of days old.

He had put me in the pram, and with the aim of giving my mum some time for a nap, taken me down the high street of the small Yorkshire town where we lived.

Collingwood Children’s Farm turns 40

SUN 3 NOV 10am-8pm

As he got among the crowds, he noticed people looking at him and frowning. Then some children ran behind him, jeering and calling out.

At this point in telling the story, dad faltered. He was on a lot of morphine, and I wondered if he was falling asleep.

But then I realised he was starting to cry.

I said "what were they calling out?"

And he said, "your dad's your mum".

They were making fun of a man pushing a baby in a pram - in the 1950s that was unknown. He was a shy man, and abandoned his walk and went down a side road for home.

I think, looking back, that he was saying "I tried to be a hands-on dad". He was proud of my work and books which had encouraged so many dads to play a more active part in their children's lives. His story suddenly brought home to me that many men of earlier generations would have liked to be closer to their children, but it wasn't really seen as a man's role.

We know a lot now about how beneficial dads are for kids. For sons, it seems to give them an idea of what being a good man looks like. Especially from ages 6-14, sons worship their dads and want to be like them, and follow them about, desperate for their approval. It helps if, from birth onward, dad has a caring role, equally able to cuddle, comfort, play and read to them.

But it's never too late to start.

Richard Fletcher at Newcastle University has researched rough and tumble play with dads and kids. He is convinced it's part of the way kids learn to be safe and moderate their emotions, learning to be excited but safe at the same time.

Girls often love this kind of play too. www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

World renowned author Steve Biddulph.

My friend Professor Bruce Robinson, at UWA, believes girls derive a lot of their self esteem from dads, because he is their first opposite sex role model. It's so important that dad conveys she is special and important, interesting and worthwhile. It can be as simple as going to her sports (and being her biggest fan), walking the dog, or sitting with her every night to catch up on the best and worst things that happened in her day.

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New studies have found when a new baby arrives, the father's hormones change. They become more placid, less competitive and nicer people! They switch into caring mode, and feel happier being close to their children.

But it takes a bit of practice for mums to share the parenting and accept that dads might do it differently. Dads are likely to be more adventurous, physical and messy, but that's good for kids and helps them be more confident.

Not everyone is lucky enough to have a dad, or have one nearby. But every time I post an article about the good things dads do on my Facebook community pages, hundreds of mothers tag their husbands. I hope it's to say "this is what you do!"

Steve Biddulph's two books Raising Boys in the 21st Century and Raising Girls in the 21st Century are available in audiobooks for dads who don't read a lot. His final round of talks will be in Melbourne and Sydney between August and October. Visit www. stevebiddulph.com for details.

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Event partners

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SPRING 2019 7

It’s Your Life

Serving busy parents a key ingredient for success

By Melissa Grant

marketing her product.

KIM McCosker's recipe for success began over a decade ago while on maternity leave for her second child.

When a community newspaper in Brisbane's northern suburbs ran a story about the venture, bookshops called wanting to stock the title and sales began to take off.

The busy mum wanted a cookbook to help her get a quick meal on the table at the end of the day, but couldn't find one.

Kim thought it was strange such a cookbook was difficult to find given how many parents had little time for meal preparation, so she decided to create her own collection of recipes using four ingredients.

Back then Kim, whose background was in finance, had no idea she would become a global phenomenon.

Never could she have dreamt that initial 4 Ingredients cookbook would become a best-seller, let alone lead to a career as a celebrity cook with titles published in 12 countries and sales topping 9 million.

In the beginning, Kim was simply thinking about how to repay the money she'd redrawn from the family mortgage to fund the first print run.

Incredibly, the initial 4 Ingredients cookbook has now sold over 3 million copies.

Kim puts much of her success down to the fact that many people like herself don't have time to follow complex, gourmet meals.

"I love watching Masterchef, but the reality is I walk into my kitchen and go 'what can I make with puff pastry, egg, bacon and onion'," she said.

"I've got three beautiful boys (aged 11, 14 and 17) and god forbid they want to play the same sport.

"In most cases, I'm walking in the door at 10 to 6 ... everyone is starving and saying 'what's for dinner?' and I only have time for four ingredients.

"It doesn't matter if you are a stay-athome mum or retiree, the world has never been busier."

After spending more than a year collating recipes, Kim and her then business partner were rejected by potential publishers.

Preparing tasty and inexpensive family meals is the focus throughout Kim's 34 published cookbooks, which include gluten-free, diabetic and allergy titles.

"We failed dismally - we couldn't even get past the gatekeeper, the receptionist," Kim recalled.

The collection also features the children focused titles, Kids 4 Ingredients and Baby Bowl.

"The second option is to self-publish and that's essentially what we did.

Currently, Kim's working on a vegetarian cookbook plus podcast and a pilot for free-to-air TV.

"I had to take $26,000 out of our family's mortgage to self-fund initially.

Motivated to repay the money she had taken from the mortgage, Kim knocked on doors to get sales.

"I packed the pram with cookbooks and off we went!" Kim managed to sell around 500 of the 2000 cookbooks printed.

Realising that wheeling a cookbook loaded pram around local neighbourhoods was a time-poor way to distribute, she began focusing on

Although she's flat out, Kim regularly finds time to cook with her sons in the kitchen of their family home at Caloundra.

She encourages parents to get their kids involved in the household meal preparation.

"We all know that cooking helps develop your child's fine motor skills and it's also an early basis for maths and science," she said.

Kim McCosker and her family.

Sunshine Coast mum Kim McCosker, the woman behind 4 Ingredients.

COOKBOOK GIVEAWAY One lucky Stonnington Boroondara Kids reader will win one copy each of Kim McCosker's Baby Bowl AND 4 Ingredients Kids.

For your chance to win this awesome prize pack, visit www. stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au and click on competitions

"I love seeing kids in the kitchen."

Tomato Drummies Serves 4 • 1kg chicken drumsticks • 420g can condensed tomato soup 1 packet (40g) French Onion Soup METHOD: 1. Preheat oven to 180C. 2. Place the chicken legs in a 24cm square ovenproof dish.

3. Stir together the tomato soup, French onion mix, and 1/2 cup of water and pour over the chicken legs.

4. Bake 1 hour or until the chicken is cooked through.

Captain Veggie Smuggler's tip: Serve with mash potatoes or cauliflower and steam beans and zucchini.

8 SPRING 2019

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

It’s Your Life

Getting organised for kids sports Professional organiser Julie Cliff.

By Julie Cliff WEEKEND or extra curricular sport can be busy, stressful and exhausting.

Get to the game and you've forgotten the mouthguard. Or while preparing to go to the game you realise the uniform is not washed.

Sometimes there are multiple events to go to on the weekend, which can leave you feeling rushed and anxious.

But you can reduce your stress levels by working with the kids to create a number of checklists they can follow.

They may hand write and decorate the list with their favourite characters, or create something on Google Slides or Powerpoint, etc.

HERE ARE A FEW CHECKLISTS TO START WITH: Checklist 1: Things to take in the bag on the day • Water bottle

Teaching your kids to prepare for their sporting activities is a great goal.

• Spare set of clothes (undies, socks, t-shirt) • Mouthguard (other protective equipment such as shin guards, headgear) • Footy boots (other special footwear) • Towel, plastic bag for dirty boots/ shoes • Blanket for car • Medication (if applicable) • After game snacks. • If playing in summer, consider packing sunscreen, a hat, extra water, etc Checklist 2: Things to wear on the day • Team jersey • Team shorts/dress • Socks • Undies • Tracksuit • Shoes

• Don't forget to pack your own stuff including coats/jackets, beanies and umbrellas (you can tell I've been to many rugby league games in the Melbourne winter). If your kids are doing summer sport, you may need a hat and sunscreen yourself

• • • •

The night before

Getting the kids involved in this way helps them learn responsibility for their actions. If they forget the mouthguard and can't play, this may remind them to pack it next time.

When our eldest son played rugby league we would often need to be in the car and heading to the event at 7am on a Saturday. For this reason, we prepared for the event as much as we could the night before. We would lay it all out on the kitchen floor with the footy bag so it was ready to pack in the morning.

After the event Get the kids involved to unpack everything as soon as you return from the event (sweaty footy jumpers are not nice to deal with a few days later). It's also a good idea to:

Wash the uniform Clean the mouthguard Wash the water bottle.

Repack the bag so it's already to go for next time

Next steps?

Planning ahead is a great skill to learn. Get the kids to create the checklists required.

Julie Cliff is a Professional Organiser at Space and Time, which helps busy mums live easier, less stressful lives through simple and easy to implement organising systems. Sound familiar?

Julie would love to hear from you info@spaceandtime.com.au

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It’s Your Life

ADVERTISING FEATURE

A reputable family car dealer JOHN Blair Honda is a family owned retail business that has been established since 1975.

factory trained technicians so you can be assured that your car service will be carried out by a technician who knows your Honda. We are equipped with the latest software and state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, so we are able to assess your vehicle with extreme accuracy.

From humble beginnings as a small showroom at the corner of Williams Road and High Street in Prahran, John Blair Honda has built a reputation as a pre-eminent dealer, receiving awards in sales, service and overall dealer excellence.

What's more, at John Blair Honda we only use genuine Honda parts that are suited to your vehicle. We have access to nearly 500,000 genuine parts, all of which are designed during vehicle development and perfectly matched to each model. We use only Honda parts, keeping your Honda a Honda.

Drawing upon this legacy, while continuing to operate from the same location today, John Blair Honda remains loyal to the core values that have been fundamental to its success over many years; its people, professionalism and integrity, passion, innovation, and service excellence.

With a long history of servicing the greater Stonnington and surrounding areas, John Blair Honda remains committed to offering the highest standard of service excellence to its customers. Its priorities lie in ensuring its customers only receive the highest quality vehicles at the most competitive price. Informative, experienced and friendly staff are always happy to guide customers through a range of vehicles to find the Honda that is best suited to one's needs and lifestyle.

SAFETY FIRST. ALWAYS. At John Blair Honda, we understand that nothing is more important to you than the safety of your family, so buying

When you buy a new Honda, we don't just watch you drive off into the distance - we stay right beside you. We are geared to keep you and your Honda safely on the road.

With John Blair Honda, peace of mind comes standard. We treat every car like it's our own, because in a way, it is.

The friendly team at John Blair Honda.

a new Honda is always a wise choice.

seater Odyssey Wagon.

We have a range of award winning family vehicles to suit everyone, from our SUVs including the compact and stylish HRV, the larger 5 and 7 seater CRV, as well as the 7 and 8

When you're on the road, you want peace of mind and confidence that your car is as safe as the day you bought it.

John Blair Honda provides skilled,

So if you're in the market to buy a new or late model Honda, feel free to come and enjoy a great coffee at our sales showroom located at 405 High Street, Prahran.

If you need your Honda serviced, call us on (03) 9522 7000 and speak with one of our friendly service team.

Our service department is located at 206 High Street, Prahran.

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10 SPRING 2019

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

It’s Your Life

Role play at Gracie Bullyproof

By Robbie Singh - Head Instructor of Gracie Jiu Jitsu Burwood AS he lay on his back, pinned to the ground, he attempts a final feeble attempt to get to his feet so he can push her around again.

She gently swims through his arms and replaces them on the ground and, in a strong voice, she gives him the option, "When you say you are going to stop bullying me, I will let you up!"

"I'm sorry, I won't bully you again."

Her serious faces changes from an assertive stare to a big smile, she jumps to her feet, dusts off his clothes and the room applauds her Bullyproof technique.

She is one rep of a role-play closer to being able to defend herself in a real life scenario.

The benefits of role playing for children in marital arts training goes beyond the specific scenario presented to them. It provides them with the physical sensations of being pushed or touched, without the aggression of a peer that allows them to implement and develop their defensive skills.

The role plays provide them with expanded language so they learn how to set boundaries and use language in a meaningful way with their peers.

Most importantly, role play develops the child's sense of self confidence because they realise they have the capacity to defend themselves and this is one of the most important parts of being a Gracie Bullyproof child.

A Gracie Bullyproof child is a confident child!

Role play develops the child's sense of self confidence because they realise they have the capacity to defend themselves.

FURBULOUS BUILD-A-BEAR

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www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

SPRING 2019 11

It’s Your Life

Tesselaar Tulip Festival in full bloom TELL the kids to grab the clogs and the selfie stick to get set for a dazzling display and day out at the 66th annual Tesselaar Tulip Festival.

Tulip Train.

The festival kicks off with an explosion of colour for Turkish weekend to pay homage to the origins of the tulip with Melbourne's Turkish community.

There's also an Irish themed weekend, and of course a Dutch weekend with treats, entertainment and dancing.

Each year, Tesselaar Tulip Festival attracts visitors from Australia and internationally wanting to experience the incredible sight of over a million spring bulbs in bloom, including 900,000 plus tulips in every colour of the rainbow.

There will also be live entertainment daily, children's activities, millions of photo opportunities, picnic areas and delicious food from around the world.

Visitors are free to wander through 12 acres of fields in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges and marvel at one of the most vibrant displays of floral beauty.

Visitors will enjoy some good old Dutch hospitality with legendary Poffertjes, Dutch sweet and savoury treats and Tesselaar's very own Double Dutch ice-cream.

This year's festival runs from September 14 to October 13.

The festival is on 10am-5pm daily from September 14 to October 13. It is located at 357 - 359 Monbulk Road, Silvan.

It offers a fabulous family day out, and there's plenty for the kids to enjoy each week and weekend of the festival.

Tickets are adults $29, concession $25 and children under 16 are free.

Children are celebrated everyday at the festival but especially during the school holidays.

For more information, visit www.tulipfestival.com.au

Entry is free for kids under 16, and all children are well catered for.

This year, the Kids LOL! Week is on September 23-26 and includes Splash Test Dummies, Mime v Myth Show, Kazaam The Magician, Full Circle Drumming Workshop, Black Snake Productions Animal Show and Tulip Fairytales.

We're giving away 10 family passes to the Tesselaar Tulip Festival.

The picturesque festival features tulips in every colour of the rainbow.

30-October 3) is Superhero Week and includes PJ Masks performances, The Amazing Superhero Show and the Black Snake Productions Animal Show.

There's plenty of delicious food, coffee, as well as an animal petting zoo, craft workshops, face painters, treasure hunt, Dutch games, and the famous

For your chance to win, visit www.stonningtonboroondarakids. com.au and click on competitions

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The following week (September

TICKET GIVEAWAY

Treat the kids to a day of adventure amongst the brilliant colour of the tulips. Enjoy entertainment from PJ Masks and the hilarious Splash Test Dummies.

Visit our website for all the details.

Children’s Days Mon 2 3

- Thu 2 Mon 3 0 Sept 6 Sept & - Thu 3 Oct

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PHONE 03 9737 7722

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

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www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

SPRING 2019 13

Health

Epworth launches mobile midwife to help new mums BEING a parent in this digital age can be hard when you're flooded with online advice on pregnancy and caring for a baby.

Many pregnant women start searching for information from the moment they see those two little lines on the test.

US researchers found eight out of 10 pregnant women admitted searching the web, but the vast majority wouldn't raise any concerns they had with their healthcare provider. In many cases it resulted in unnecessary anxiety for mums-to-be.

With all of this in mind, Epworth Maternity recently launched a video series on pregnancy and the post-natal period.

Available to all new mums online, the series covers nutrition and safe exercise while pregnant, through to swaddling and settling your precious new baby.

Nurse Unit Manager at Epworth Freemasons Maternity said.

"This series complements what our patients learn in our popular childbirth education classes. It gives parents the ability to watch wherever and whenever they need to," Lola Valent,

"The transition from hospital to home can be daunting. Most of our families spend four days with us but during those early days, you're recovering from birth and adjusting to a new life.

Epworth Maternity has launched a video series to help new mums.

"There's so much to learn and remember, so we wanted to find a way to support our parents beyond our hospital walls.

"Many parents these days don't have a large support group around them. We hope that we can be part of their online

village, sharing expert knowledge and decades of experience in a way that's easy to access."

To discover the Epworth's Mobile Midwife site, visit https://landing. epworth.org.au/maternityvideos or scan the QR code.

Recycle your toothbrushes and oral care waste at Tower Dental TOWER Dental has partnered with Colgate and TerraCycle to help reduce the amount of oral product waste disposed to landfill each year.

mouth rinse bottles."

"We are really excited to be a part of this great initiative," said Practice Manager Karen Dillon.

In Australia, over 30 million toothbrushes are used and disposed of each year, leading to approximately 1000 tonnes of landfill annually.

"Tower Dental is a public drop off point for oral care waste.

"A collection box has been placed in a prominent place in our waiting area.

"We encourage patients and locals, who want to help reduce the volume of waste, to bring in their used manual toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes and caps, toothbrush and toothpaste cartons and packaging, floss containers and

Pieces of floss and electric toothbrushes (and parts) are not recyclable through the program.

Made from a combination of plastic and rubber for the hand piece, nylon bristles, and using plastic and cardboard packaging, these nonbiodegradable items, when placed in the bin, remain in landfill indefinitely.

"While we might think a single toothbrush doesn't make a big impact on the environment, as with everything

to do with the environment, every bit counts".

The recycled oral health care products collected at Tower Dental are sent to TerraCycle, separated by composition, shredded and melted into hard plastic which is remoulded to make new recycled products such as picnic tables, outdoor benches and playground equipment.

That's something to smile about!

Tower Dental is located at 1 Whitehorse Road, Balwyn. For appointments or more information, call 9817 7144 or visit www.towerdental. com.au

Encouraging recycling... Karen Dillon at Tower Dental.

Caring For Your Smile Tower Dental, located on the corner of Whitehorse and Burke Roads, is a family based dental practice providing quality dental services in Balwyn and its neighbouring suburbs. Our team is dedicated to encouraging and developing complete dental care and oral health for patients of all ages. :_`c[i\eËj ;\ek`jkip `eZ dflk_^lXi[j >\e\iXc ;\ek`jkip :ifnej# 9i`[^\j Xe[ M\e\\ij K\\k_ <okiXZk`fej ;\ekli\j

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At Tower Dental we accept all major health funds, allowing you to claim on the spot.

Tower Dental is a Platinum provider for BUPA and a preferred provider for NIB and HCF.

Telephone: 9817 7144 | Address: 1 Whitehorse Road, Balwyn | Email: reception@towerdental.com.au | Website: www.towerdental.com.au 12419464-SN26-19

14 SPRING 2019

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Health Local gestational diabetes program

Why early orthodontic treatment is important DID you know your child should have their first orthodontic appointment by the age of seven?

The following issues should be addressed while your child is young:

Many parents mistakenly believe their child needs to lose all their baby teeth before seeing an orthodontist.

■ Sequence of adult teeth eruption: should be examined to help determine whether any intervention is required.

However, Dr Gopal Kataria at Anglehouse Orthodontics says waiting this long can lead to various unexpected problems.

■ Thumb sucking and breathing through the mouth: can result in children having their jaw growth affected and teeth pushed forward.

"If you wait until all baby teeth are lost, the chances of overcrowding and the need for extraction may increase," he said.

■ Buck teeth: if not corrected, a child involved in an accident, particularly in the pool or while playing sports, is more likely to end up with broken teeth.

Visits to the dentist to check the health of their children's teeth and gums has always been a priority for parents, but it is as equally important to see the orthodontist to evaluate the bite and alignment of children's teeth and jaws.

■ Crossbite: where the lower teeth are positioned ahead of the upper teeth.

If left untreated, a child can experience jaw development issues, such as the chin shifting to the left or right or forward.

"A child should have their first orthodontic screening by age seven, so we can monitor the eruption of adult teeth and assess the need and timing of any orthodontic treatment.

■ Spacing: Sometimes children have missing adult teeth. If detected at a young age, it's easier to manage space problems and close any large gaps naturally.

"It also means we're creating happy smiles while your child is growing, which helps with their self-confidence."

Anglehouse Orthodontics is located at 7 Whitehorse Road, Balwyn. For appointments, call 9817 6427.

Dr Gopal Kataria at Anglehouse Orthodontics says a child should have their first orthodontic screening by age seven.

Picture: Rob Carew

WOMEN in Melbourne's east and southeast are benefiting from a unique five-week program aimed at helping postpartum mums who have experienced gestational diabetes.

The Women After Gestational (WAG) program, run by the Diabetes Education team at Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, targets women post-birth, providing a free healthy lifestyle program.

It is run at maternal and child health centres in the cities of Stonnington, Glen Iris, Boroondara and Whitehorse.

The interactive program includes education on healthy cooking and eating, stress and depression, keeping motivated and active, and the importance of sleep.

Women with gestational diabetes have a 50 per cent increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes within five to 10 years after having their babies, and women who have had gestational diabetes have a one in three chance of developing it again in future pregnancy.

Lifestyle changes including diet, physical activity and weight loss can reduce the incidence of type 2 diabetes among women with a history of gestational diabetes by 50 per cent.

The women are supported for 12 months after the program, which is set to be used in other municipalities.

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Phone: 03 9817 6427 Email:info@anglehouseorthodontics.com.au | www.anglehouseorthodontics.com.au www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

SPRING 2019 15

Health

Tips for returning to running post baby SO, you have just had a baby and are about to put on your runners and hit the pavement.

Is there anything that you would like to know before you start?

Are you having issues you would like addressed but don't know where to begin?

Returning to running is a common goal that we see among new mums at our clinic. Often, they plan on running soon after birth but don't know how to go about it.

Returning before you are ready can sometimes lead to injury or other issues such as incontinence, so it is a good idea to seek help from a professional.

In March this year, new international guidelines were released to help support health professionals (such as physiotherapists) who work with women after having babies. The guidelines aim to provide a basis for helping women safely and confidently return to running and sport after birth.

The four main points in the guidelines are: Fitwise wants to see all mums reach their fitness goals.

â&#x20AC;˘ Women can benefit from an individualised assessment and

rehabilitation program for the pelvic floor. This program will focus on treatment and prevention of prolapse, incontinence and improving sexual function. â&#x20AC;˘ Returning to running is not recommended prior to three months after delivery. This time is extended if women are experiencing pelvic floor symptoms such as incontinence. â&#x20AC;˘ Body weight, breastfeeding, sleep deprivation, scar tissue and psychological status should be considered when determining readiness to run. â&#x20AC;˘ If a woman doesn't not have any pelvic floor issues three months after delivery then a graded running program can commence. It should be monitored and modified as required.

As you can see, returning to running after having a baby is a little more complicated than you might think.

Luckily, all the physios at Fitwise Physiotherapy are trained in this area and can provide expert advice as well as treatment.

Senior Physiotherapist Lucy Glasson.

Glasson

We want to see all mums reach their goals, so let us know when you are planning on pulling on your running shoes and we can help you along the way.

Lucy Glasson, Senior Physiotherapist consulting at Fitwise Physiotherapy's East Melbourne practice

Treating abnormal and unsightly veins with care VEIN Care is a leading provider of medical solutions for abnormal veins, with three locations in Camberwell, Sydenham and Boronia.

treatment for varicose veins, spider veins, reticular veins, venous leg ulcers, large and unsightly veins as well as facial veins.

Treatments to alleviate spider, reticular and varicose veins are advancing constantly, there is no need to suffer any longer.

It is well known that pregnancy is a primary cause of painful, bulging varicose veins and unsightly spider veins.

Dr Gurjit Dhillon specialises in venous disease and has been practicing in Australia for over 20 years.

'Mum vein' problems can even develop post-pregnancy with little or no warning.

He is one of the few doctors in Australia who specialises in the nonsurgical treatment of varicose veins.

Vein Care offers expert and courteous varicose vein treatments, using all the latest technologies designed to provide fast,convenient and lasting solutions.

Vein Care offers non-surgical

Vein Care

The doctors and nurses at Vein Care are highly trained and experienced in providing treatment for pregnancyrelated varicose veins using the most advanced treatment available.

The varicose vein treatments are nonsurgical and designed to maximise comfort for a swift recovery.

If you have questions regarding varicose veins or would like to schedule a consultation, contact the helpful patient service staff on 9813 1535 or 1300 568 676. The team can also be reached online through the contact page at www.veincare.com.au

Dr Gurjit Dhillon specialises in venous disease.

Specialising in Veins

We can treat your

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Health

Avoiding complex orthodontics for your child may only be a breath away any other habits, like thumb-sucking.

YOU want your child to have a healthy confident smile for life, but you don't want them to undergo complex orthodontics, especially if it is preventable.

Stephanie Attard, one of our dental hygienists, is trained in orofacial myology and helps kids "quit" the thumb-sucking or mouth-breathing habit.

Orthodontic treatment may not be completely avoidable, but the complexity can be significantly reduced with early diagnosis and treatment of the causes of tooth crowding.

Nurturing a healthy smile requires management of the challenges presented at each stage of your child's development; and as long as your child is still growing, they can benefit from a holistic approach to orthodontics, which minimises tooth crowding and the need for future extraction of healthy teeth.

Prevention is better than cure.

Research is increasingly finding links between oral health and general health. Addressing the problems which lead to tooth crowding can also benefit your child's health.

Dr Leo Goh has a special interest in dentofacial orthopaedics and orthodontics. He believes it is important to identify tongue tie, tongue thrust, narrow palates, dry lips, tooth wear, crowded teeth, narrow jaws, large tonsils/snoring/mouth breathing during a dental examination and the earlier this occurs, the better chance we have to give your child a confident healthy smile for life.

It is particularly important for dentists to identify signs and causes of night time mouth breathing. If untreated, it can result in: sleep disordered breathing; reduced oxygen supply to a

Our centres of dental excellence offer you all the capabilities, in each of the locations, to carry your kids through all their changing dental health and orthodontic needs as they grow into adults and beyond. We provide you the planned, team approach necessary to achieve a healthy confident smile for your child, with the convenience of keeping all your dental visits to one place.

Dental hygienist Stephanie Attard and Dr Leo Goh.

child's developing brain; poor sleep, resulting in ADHD-like behaviours; poor tongue position, causing narrow jaw development; jaw joint and bite issues and an increased likelihood of the need for complex orthodontics.

Having the cause of the mouthbreathing or snoring addressed early is essential. If it is a medical problem, then referral to an ENT specialist is warranted. However, if it is habitual, then it should be addressed along with

To arrange a complimentary early intervention assessment or get more information at a Kids' Health Day Bookings are essential In Boroondara call: Q Dental 9817 5050 or in Stonnington call: Dental Off Chapel 95105198

12419240-SN26-19

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

SPRING 2019 17

Health

Seeking help during the tough times of parenthood As many as 1 in 5 expecting or new mums will experience perinatal anxiety or depression.

expecting and new mums and dads affected by perinatal mental illness. We also train and educate health professionals who work with families to be able to identify and treat these illnesses in their clients and patients. In addition, we raise awareness within the community because we know one of the key reasons many expecting and new parents affected by mental health concerns don't seek help is because they don't understand what's happening to them.

TOO often when new or expectant parents struggle as they begin their parenting journey, any feelings of anxiety, stress, tension or worry are dismissed as the 'baby blues' or put down to sheer exhaustion.

But experts say there are warning signs which could suggest a more serious illness, like depression or anxiety, and it's important to seek help.

Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia (PANDA) CEO Terri Smith says as many as one in five expecting or new mums and one in 10 expecting or new dads will experience the illnesses.

Here, she explains the signs to look for and how PANDA can help.

PANDA CEO Terri Smith.

Smith

What is perinatal anxiety and depression?

Perinatal anxiety and depression is a serious and common illness that occurs during pregnancy or within the year after birth. Left untreated, it can have a devastating impact on parents, partners, baby and the rest of the family. In the worst cases, lives can even be put at risk.

Depression covers lower mood feelings such as having trouble feeling joy in things that would typically light you up, feeling lethargic and withdrawing from friends and family.

Anxiety is more heightened moods such as panic attacks, a racing heart or worrying thoughts that go round and round in your head, or a sense of anger and frustration.

How can the checklists on your website help new mums and dads?

One of the tricky things about having depression and/or anxiety as a new or expecting parent is that many symptoms can look similar to what most people experience at this time, for example feeling tired, a bit irritable or emotional or worrying about baby's health.

PANDA's checklists ask questions about changes expecting and new parents have noticed since starting the journey to becoming a parent - in their body and behaviour; in their thoughts and feelings; and in their relationships.

Completing the checklist creates a

18 SPRING 2019

results page that gives users an indication whether what they are experiencing or observing in a loved one could be a reason to seek help.

What is the difference between perinatal anxiety and depression and the baby blues?

Having a degree of trouble adjusting to the changes that come with impending parenthood or the arrival of a new baby is natural.

Feeling a little 'teary', anxious or irritable for a few days in the weeks after the birth - often referred to as the 'baby blues' - is common. However, when a low mood or feelings of anxiousness start to cause concerns or stop an expecting or new parent from functioning normally for more than two weeks, they may be experiencing perinatal anxiety or depression.

Is there still a stigma surrounding mental health for new parents?

Stigma still prevents many people from seeking the support they need.

Everyday PANDA's telephone counsellors hear from callers who tell us they are ashamed of what they're feeling and they're afraid they'll be seen as a bad parent if they admit to struggling. They need to know that these thoughts are common and that help is available.

How does PANDA help?

PANDA operates Australia's only specialist national helpline to support

PANDA has two websites: our main panda.org.au site and also a site specifically for expecting and new dads (howisdadgoing.org.au). These sites provide a genuine online support option for those struggling with perinatal anxiety and depression and postnatal psychosis, as well as their loved ones and carers - providing accurate and accessible information and resources.

Importantly, our websites are full of stories from mums who have experienced perinatal anxiety and depression and postnatal psychosis.

How should we approach new parents who we think might be suffering?

Parents, families, partners and friends play a big part in helping their loved ones. Here are some of the things you can do: ■ Focus on providing practical help and gentle emotional support. Try and listen when your loved one expresses difficult or uncomfortable feelings or thoughts without jumping in to 'fix it', minimise it or 'make it better.'

■ Ask your loved one what help might be useful for them. Avoid the temptation to rush in and take over.

■ Encourage your partner, friend or family member to open up to their GP, midwife, obstetrician or child health nurse - or call PANDA's National Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Helpline 1300 726 306.

■ Perinatal anxiety and depression affects every area of wellbeing: motivation, decision making and view of self and others. It is probably not the best time to make big life decisions about things like your relationship, career or house.

■ Looking after your own physical, emotional and mental health is crucial if you hope to provide ongoing support to your partner, friend or family member with perinatal depression or anxiety.

■ Exercise, a healthy diet, limiting alcohol consumption and sufficient sleep all make a difference.

If you need help, call the PANDA hotline (Mon to Fri, 9am - 7.30pm AEST) on 1300 726 306.

THE WARNING SIGNS • Feeling sad, low, or crying for no obvious reason • Persistent, generalised worry, often focused on fears for the health or wellbeing of your baby • Being nervous, 'on edge', or panicky • Being easily annoyed or irritated • Withdrawing from friends and family • Difficulties sleeping, even when your baby is sleeping • Abrupt mood swings • Feeling constantly tired and lacking energy • Physical symptoms like nausea, vomiting, cold sweats, lack of appetite • Having little or no interest in the things that normally bring you joy • Fear of being alone or with others • Finding it difficult to focus, concentrate or remember • Increased alcohol or drug use • Panic attacks (racing heart, palpitations, shortness of breath, shaking or feeling physically 'detached' from your surroundings) • Developing obsessive or compulsive behaviours • - Thoughts of death, suicide or harming your baby

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Health

Josie with husband Hugh and children Leo and Lily.

Picture: Rob Carew

Opening up about IN the weeks after her daughter's birth, Hawthorn mother of two Josephine Smyth started noticing the familiar feelings of anxiety and darkness creep in.

She knew she needed to seek help.

Having experienced post natal depression with her son, Leo, she knew what to look out for and that it was more than just a hormonal shift or transition into life with two young children.

Here, she opens up to Melissa Meehan about her experience with post natal depression and the important work of Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA).

"Lily would have been about four months old, because I had it before I recognised the feelings that I was having and I think what contributed to it this time was that Lily wasn't a good sleeper," Josie explained.

"It was fine for about 12 weeks, but then when you're operating on no sleep and trying to run a household and manage a toddler at the same time, there's no opportunity for rest.

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

post natal depression

"It got to a point I was up very hour overnight. I basically became a zombie, and so I started to have feelings, and I already had anxiety, and the anxious symptoms were heightened.

"I started not caring for myself. I had no appetite, I started not showering, I was feeling flat.

"I had inability to laugh at things I used to find funny. I started to get panicky and there was the really low feelings of dreading the day, not having any joy."

It got to a point where Josie couldn't sleep much at all.

That's when the "scary thoughts" crept in.

"That's when I realised it was different to normal feelings, where we are getting into scary territory," she said.

This time around, Josie found herself being more open within her support network about what she was struggling with.

Reflecting on her journey to date, she's saddened by the fact she had no idea what to look out for during her pregnancies.

"I had a lot of family and friends come over and just sit with me, and that was really helpful," she said.

"It was all about the baby and all the fun things, and nothing about the flipside, nothing about the feelings you can experience."

"Having someone there - I could be myself, I didn't have to put on a show.

"Whilst I was experiencing these symptoms I was faking it, and that is so hard. It's really exhausting when you're already exhausted as it is and you have to put on a face.

"It was nice being myself and not being judged."

These days, Josie is comforted by the fact that PND seems to be a topic that's being spoken about more.

Josie sought help from her GP, who knew her history of PND with Leo.

It's talked about more, written and spoken about more in the media, and there's more support than ever.

With Leo, her mum encouraged her to seek help, but this time Josie flagged it as soon as she recognised the same feelings.

"When I started to recover with Leo, I started to be more honest with my friends so I explained that time when I wasn't myself, this was why," she said.

It was recommended Josie be put on medication and continue to see a psychologist as well as a psychiatrist.

Before Josie was first diagnosed after Leo's birth back in 2014, she didn't know much about depression and anxiety.

And while she knew the medication was an important step in her recovery, it was important to ensure it wouldn't impact her breastfeeding journey with Lily.

She was touched by the level of support after her second experience with PND. "The responses I received were so supportive and compassionate," she said.

She hopes by sharing her story, anyone who is struggling may find the courage to speak up, just like she did.

"People need to know that if they are struggling or if the are worried about someone they don't need a diagnosis they can call PANDA's hotline," she said.

"Even if you think you might have symptoms or even if you are struggling a bit, they are a really good listening ear and then they can guide you.

PANDA has trained counsellors who can provide you with support, information and referrals if you are experiencing mental health challenges in pregnancy and new parenthood."

- with Danielle Galvin If you need help, call the PANDA hotline (Mon to Fri, 9am - 7.30pm AEST) on 1300 726 306 or visit www.panda.org.au/ Other contacts: Lifeline 13 11 14 www.lifeline.org.au beyondblue support service line 1300 22 46 36

SPRING 2019 19

What’s On

A gardening festival for the family WHETHER you have a tiny balcony garden, a sprawling backyard jungle, or you dig all things green, Spring into Gardening is the perfect event for inspiration and tips on gardening and sustainable living.

Most Popular Presenter Logie winner Costa Georgiadis, from ABC's Gardening Australia, returns to host the family friendly festival on Sunday October 13.

Held at Prahan's Victoria Gardens, the event will feature free workshops, expert demonstrations and market stalls to help you start planting and preparing your garden for summer.

The speakers include MasterChef series 7 contestant Sara Oteri who will present Changing the World from Your Kitchen: Steps to Reduce Food Waste and Save Money. Passionate about reducing food waste, Sara will go through some keep tips that decrease food waste in the kitchen.

Organic gardener and author Penny Woodward will share her knowledge on Growing Heirloom Tomatoes on the main stage. She will also speak about Harvesting and Curing Garlic at a stall based presentation.

There will also be a load of hands-on children's activities including:

The festival will also feature roving entertainment, live music and ecofriendly food trucks.

■ Flower crown making with The Sage Garden

A full program will be available closer to the date at stonnington.vic.gov.au

■ A Native Bee hotel workshop with Emma Grace sustainable Crafts ■ The ever popular Bike and Blend

Spring into Gardening Sunday 13 October 2019 11am-3pm Victoria Gardens, Prahran

For top tips on gardening and sustainable living, don't miss the speakers on the main stage.

Logie winner Costa Georgiadis, from ABC's Gardening Australia, will host the Spring into Gardening Festival.

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Entertainment

School holiday fun at

Get creative and messy

Victoria Gardens

at The Art Factory DOES your child need an outlet to express themselves creatively?

Why not let them get creative and a little messy at The Art Factory?

The vibrant art studio offers weekly classes for children aged 2-5 and 5-12.

Owner Emma Light, Victorian College of Art graduate and artist, says the sessions are a great way for children to express themselves through art and make new friends.

"It's a chance for kids who love art to work on their skills while having fun and forming new friendships," she said.

The Kiddy Art program for children aged 2-5 offers an introduction into the world of artistic expression through sensory play and imagination.

Accompanied by their parents, children make something different each week using items such as playdough, shaving cream and water colour paints.

They explore colours, shapes and textures as well as artistic processes like painting, collage, textiles and

construction. Best of all, they get to take their art pieces e home to proudly hang on the wall or play with long after their class has finished. e After School Art classes are 2 perfect for children aged 5-12 who want to refine their drawing skills, creativity and self-expression through art.

The Crafty Kids art program allows children to explore techniques such as mosaics, collage, textiles, paper-mache, sculpture and more.

Sketching The World is a program designed for kids looking to improve their painting and drawing skills, while Pottery Classes are perfect for those who want to get their hands dirty!

The weekly art classes for younger and older children are held throughout school terms. Free trials are available.

Let your child get creative at The Art Factory.

The Art Factory has studios at Malvern, Balwyn and Essendon.

Phone 9576 0135 or visit www. theartfactory.com.au

VICTORIA Gardens could not bear the thought of not keeping the kids entertained these school holidays.

That's why the centre is hosting a FURbulous Build-A-Bear Workshop Experience from Saturday 21 September to Wednesday 25 September outside Kmart from 10am - 2.30pm.

For $5, each guest gets to bring to life their very own 'Lil Cub' by participating in a fun heart ceremony.

Your new furry friend will be pre-filled with just the right amount of cuddliness, ready for you to bring it to life by adding your very own heart and personal touches in the fun-filled, hour-long session.

Bears also come with their own birth certificate, becoming an instant family member, plus a cub condo to take them home in.

Places are limited, so visit vicgardenssc.com.au to book today.

Clothes and accessories will be available for separate and additional purchase. Prices range between $5 and $25 for clothing and accessories.

For more information and a full schedule of events, visit vicgardenssc.com.au.

Look What I Made!

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

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SPRING 2019 21

Entertainment

Hey party animals! Collingwood Children's Farm is turning forty COLLINGWOOD Children's Farm is about to celebrate 40 years of bringing country life to city folk.

Located just 5km from Melbourne's CBD, the rustic farm has become an important community hub over the past four decades.

Originally founded as a green space for families to connect with nature and food production, the not-for-profit resource is much more than a petting farm. The farm supports those experiencing disadvantage, particularly children, by delivering a range of programs.

To celebrate turning 40, Collingwood Children's Farm is hosting a public celebration on Sunday November 3.

The community event - dubbed 'Party Animals' - will celebrate the farm's achievements over the past four decades and its bright future.

"It will be a celebration and a call out to the community to support new initiatives to secure the farm as an important community space for the next 40 years," General Manager Conor Hickey said.

Hosted by Costa from Gardening

Collingwood Children's Farm wants the community to help celebrate its 40th birthday.

Australia, the 40th birthday celebration will be a whole day of festivities with bands Emma Donovan and the Putbacks, Jess Ribeiro, The Burnt Sausages, The Orbweavers, and more.

With a farm book launch, new farm song and podcast sharing the stories of all the people who are connected to the farm, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

To book your ticket for this exciting event, visit www.farm.org.au

One of the cute calves at Collingwood Children’s Farm.

Fresh & Fruity Family

Pictures: Steve Costello

Let the kids play while you shop at IKEA

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Leave your children at the store's fully-supervised Sm&aring;land play area while you shop.

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Småland is open daily between 10am and 8pm at IKEA Richmond.

To play, children must be aged between 3 and 10 years and fully toilet trained. Parents and guardians are required to complete a confidential enrolment form prior to entry.

For more information please visit IKEA.com.au/Richmond Happy shopping!

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helped parents 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.

Ready to party GOURMET KIDS DO you have a budding Masterchef?

Have their birthday party at Gourmet Kids and make it a day to remember!

Great fun for all, whether you’re getting your hands sticky and licking the spoon, or watching the kids cook up a storm in our safe and supervised kitchen. Great school holiday programs and cooking classes are also available. For ages 2-15.

SLUMBER TRIBE Slumber Tribe is dedicated to providing kids with the most amazing slumber party and sleepover party adventures.

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LITTLE CREATURES Simply the best toddler party venue there is! At Little Creatures, our birthday parties are unique, memorable and exclusive. We are the only toddler suited play space to offer the whole venue with each booking - that includes all of our amazing learn and play spaces!

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Customised cakes and cupcakes for your birthday child. Pokemon, teddy bears, dinosaurs ... nothing is too difficult! You will be amazed at the way the cakes look and they taste even better! And they can be delivered!

FAIRY COOL PARTIES Fairy Cool Parties make it easy for you, whether we come to you in your home or you visit our venue. So if you want a glamour party, disco party or character party, we can either come to you or you can come to 119 Bulleen Road, Balwyn North. One function is only ever held at one time, meaning you will have exclusive use of the venue for your

booking, and there’s nothing to clean up.

FAIRY FRECKLES AND FRIENDS Fairy Freckles and Friends bring the magic to you! From face painting to a spectacular magic show or a roving fun maker, we have your event covered.

Specialising in birthday parties packed with fun, our entertainers are some of the most experienced, magical characters Melbourne has to offer. Let us entertain the kids while you enjoy the party! New to Fairy Freckles and Friends are disco parties with face painting and balloon twisting.

CRACKLE & POP PARTY BAGS Bespoke party bags designed specifically to celebrate birthdays. Every child loves a party bag, but they take a lot of time to organise. Let Crackle and Pop take the stress out of this. Please select your party bags and enjoy the extra time you now have!

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By Melissa Grant

Education

SCHOOL Lunch Box dad George Georgievski likes to keep his creations appetising, healthy and simple.

School Lunch Box Dad shares his top tips

It's a winning combination that's led the Victorian father to becoming a social media sensation and author.

George took over lunchbox duties at home a few years ago after witnessing the morning chaos.

He wanted to make simple and healthy lunches his primary school aged daughters, Anela and Kiara, would actually eat.

"I started looking online for inspiration, however I found it was either too hard or too confusing, so I decided to stop looking and start creating," the civil engineering worker said.

Those creations caught the eye of a teacher, who told Mr Georgievski should document them on Instagram - a medium he'd never used before.

His Instagram page now has over 73,000 followers, while the School Lunch Box Facebook page has a following of more than 39,000.

When making his daughters' lunches, George aims to include three vegetables, two fruits and a sandwich or something similar while avoiding sugar and using 'the colours of the rainbow'.

His creations have proven a huge hit with time-poor parents who often feel under pressure to create something amazing for their children's lunches.

George says it's easy for parents to feel overwhelmed.

"I looked up a recipe for muffins. It involved nine ingredients, half an hour baking and I thought 'how can I do it in a commercial break while watching MAFS? "So I got out my protein shaker and started developing my own dad style recipes - donuts, pikelets, fritters, potato cakes all just using protein shakers.

"That went crazy - who is this dude who makes donuts out of protein shakers in a minute?

George's book, Lunchbox Express, features simple recipes and hacks to help parents put together healthy and fun lunches in five minutes.

Anela, George, Kiara

Here are two of George's favourite lunchbox recipes...

HOT JAM DOUGHNUTS

SPILL-PROOF KEBABS

Makes 4

Makes 6

â&#x20AC;˘ 1/2 cup strawberry jam (or any jam you have on hand) â&#x20AC;˘ 8 slices of wholemeal bread

â&#x20AC;˘ 3 wholemeal pita pockets leftover cooked lamb or chicken (around 90g), sliced

â&#x20AC;˘ 2 tablespoons butter

â&#x20AC;˘ 4 tomatoes, chopped

â&#x20AC;˘ Ground cinnamon, for sprinkling

â&#x20AC;˘ 1 cup plain yoghurt

â&#x20AC;˘ Caster sugar, for sprinkling (optional if you think the jam is sweet enough)

â&#x20AC;˘ Handful of spinach leaves

METHOD: 1. Spoon 1 tablespoon of jam into the centre of four slices of bread.

2. Pop a slice of bread on top of one, then, using an upside-down coffee mug, push down hard until the surrounding part of the bread comes away and the edges are sealed. Carefully remove the bread from the mug and repeat the process to make four doughnuts.

3. Melt the butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Sprinkle

some cinnamon into the pan, so it caramelises and infuses the butter. Place your doughnuts in the frying pan and, using tongs, move them around the pan to coat them in the butter and cinnamon. Flip them over and let the doughnuts toast a little further. The smell at this stage will be heavenly.

4. Remove the doughnuts from the pan, lightly sprinkle over some more cinnamon and a little caster sugar (if using) and enjoy.

TIP: You can also use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes.

METHOD: 1. Using a knife or a pizza cutter, cut a strip out of the middle of each pita pocket to make two semicircles per pocket.

2. Open up the pita pocket semicircles so they look like little boats.

3. Fill each pita boat with the lamb or chicken, tomato and yoghurt, then top with the spinach.

4. Because the meat is already cold, it's fine to make these the night before, refrigerate and pop them into school lunchboxes in the morning.

TIPS: Be brave and add a few slices of red onion; it works so well in kebabs. Put these on a platter when guests come over and impress your friends. Try using tzatziki instead of plain yoghurt for a garlic hit.

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Education

Dietitian s simple

lunch box advice

Dietitians Association of Australia spokesperson Kate DiPrima.

MAKING school lunchboxes is a task loathed by many parents.

Deciding what food to send a child to school with can also be confusing.

There's so much conflicting advice about nutrition, not to mention school bans on certain foods due to allergies.

But packing a school lunchbox doesn't have to be laborious.

Kate Di Prima is an accredited practising dietitian and spokesperson for the Dietitians Association of Australia.

Here, she gives simple advice on what food items should be included in school lunch boxes.

THE MAIN ITEM: The 'hero feature' of the lunch box. It can be last night's leftovers, a wrap, salad, sandwiches, sushi, soup or pasta.

This item should contain the iron-rich protein whether it's meat, legumes or tofu. Examples included tinned tuna, baked beans and chicken. This item sustains the child throughout the day and should be eaten first.

If you are packing a sandwich think about the fillings. Often a sandwich with tomato or tabbouleh comes back uneaten because it's gone soggy.

Put the spread (avocado or butter) on the bread then keep the filling separate so the child can put the sandwich together. For little ones, try drying off the salad ingredients and put the ham on the bread with the salad in the middle to prevent the bread from going soggy.

ITEM 2: A piece of fresh fruit with edible skin to provide the child with fibre and important vitamins and minerals. It can

Childcare with a warm, family environment

be chopped up and put back together as a whole piece, or it can be chopped up into bite-sized pieces.

DRINKS: It's important to send your child to school with water.

ITEM 3: This item should be a calcium rich dairy food or equivalent such as milk, biscuits and cheese, yoghurt, custard or a smoothie.

STICKER SYSTEM: For younger children use stickers to indicate which lunch box items should be eaten first. Quite often a parent puts a blueberry muffin in and the child will eat that first and it won't sustain them. Put a gold sticker on what should be eaten first, put a red sticker on what should be eaten second, etc.

ITEM 4: A vegetable. The last nutrition survey showed an astronomical number of adults who aren't eating vegetables.

Ones that go well in a lunch box include carrots with hummus, green beans or cherry tomatoes.

ITEM 5: Parents should include a fifth lunch box item if their child is doing an after-school activity. It can be something fun and sweet that doesn't include a heap of sugar such as a homemade blueberry muffin, cereal slice, muesli slice or fruit balls.

FAMILY is everything at Canterbury Road Childcare Centre.

As soon as you step through the front door you can sense a nurturing, caring, loving and homely environment.

Children, parents and staff are all treated like family at Canterbury Road Childcare, a privately-owned family business with over two decades years' experience in the childcare sector.

Canterbury Road Childcare opened in June, however its sister centre at Sunshine has been running for more than 23 years.

Director Chris Collins says parents who enrol their children at Canterbury Road Childcare can expect their little ones to thrive in a family oriented learning environment with highly experienced educators.

"We are quite experienced - we're not just a new centre," Chris said.

Canterbury Road Childcare coordinator Lilian Diaz has 24 years' experience in childcare.

Brand iÜ Centre

Picture: Rob Carew

"We've had our centre in Sunshine for more than 23 years - and the educator

EXTRA TIPS

STORAGE: We've taking ham and chicken sandwiches to school for decades and there have been no major breakouts of gastro. The bacteria build-up isn't much in the first few hours.

If you put the lunch box down the back of the fridge and in the morning put ice in the thermos, the food stays nice and cool until at least the first break.

who is now running our Canterbury Road Centre has been with us those entire 23 years.

"Also, some of the room leaders at Sunshine have been with us for around 20 years.

"We are a family childcare centre, not a chain, and we pride ourselves on providing a warm, friendly family environment."

The Canterbury Road Centre has tailored learning environments suiting each age group from 0-6, including a fun-filled kindergarten program to develop each child's learning.

The 96-place centre also has a chef who prepares nutritious and fresh meals served daily.

Canterbury Road Childcare Centre is located at 764 Canterbury Rd, Surrey Hills.

The centre is currently taking enrolments. Drop in for a tour anytime or phone Chris on 0411 619 229.

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SPRING 2019 25

Education

Knowbots teach children about the world He has created an engaging community for kids to connect with the characters, join the missions and get involved in preserving their future.

THE Knowbots are nuts about knowledge and kids.

The Knowbots (Knowledge Robots) are a team of mechanical friends on a mission to teach children about earth and provide them with the tools to build a better future.

They are the centrepiece of an online platform created by Melbourne graphic designer Conrad Gracie.

"Kids have such powerful imaginations and are so incredibly inventive. So we've built in free downloadable activities on the site, which align with the articles," Conrad said.

A staunch believer in teaching young people about real-world matters from an early age, Conrad developed the Knowbots to make learning a fun, engaging and hands-on experience.

"We also encourage our social followers to draw, paint, or design their very own Knowbot for submission on the site."

The Knowbots invite viewers on their adventures as they discover information from around the world.

Knowbots K b t aims i tto make k llearning i a ffun, engaging i and dh hands-on d experience. i

Along with the free online content, there is a limited edition product range, and a quarterly magazine titled Knowkids, available in October 2019.

"I want to be able to help spread knowledge to the next generation, to get them thinking about the important issues."

For more information about the Knowbots characters, resources and products, visitwww.knowledgerobots. com

They share knowledge, news and activities to prepare the next generation of Knowkids.

"I created Knowbots to engage children in the issues of today," Conrad explained.

Conrad has harnessed the power of visual storytelling to offer a fresh approach to learning through the Knowbots.

TeamKids a top choice for holiday programs THE idea behind TeamKids was born out of a need for a quality school holiday program that children would actually look forward to.

play, and recognises how important it is for healthy brain development to build lifelong problem solving skills, empathy and creativity.

Former school teacher and founding director Sam Hoath started TeamKids at the school he was teaching at, as parents told him they were underwhelmed by the options of holiday care.

"Giving children the opportunity to play is a vital part of our programs and has proven benefits, including giving children a chance to discover and develop a connection to their own self-guided interests, increasing confidence as well as helping children build resilience to take risks, problem solve and follow rules," Mr Hoath says.

It's a success story, with the program now run at more than 90 venues.

TeamKids provide industry leading ratios of one staff member per 10 children, develop programs and activities that excite, engage and entertain children not only every day of the school holidays, but also in their before and after school care program, bringing relief for working families all year round.

Play is also critical for helping children make friends, learn to deal with their emotions and, most importantly, it's an amazing source of happiness.

Mr Hoath says it is increasingly important to give families more options.

TeamKids develops programs and activities that excite, engage and entertain children.

"Outside school hours utilisation has doubled in the last seven years," he explained.

has never been more important to parents.

peace of mind and comfort when trying to balance work-life commitments."

TeamKids runs a variety of holiday programs and before and after school care services at a number of venues across Stonnington and Booroondara, including Ashburton, Balwyn North, Kew, Camberwell, Glen Iris and Surrey Hills.

"The importance of schools having a quality provider delivering the service

"And for parents, feeling confident their child is in good hands brings them

TeamKids, which is owned and run by teachers, advocates for all forms of

For more information, visit www. teamkids.com.au

CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE

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26 SPRING 2019

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Education

A holiday program where kids are

the boss Mini Boss Holiday Programs feature activities run by educators who are experts in their field.

HOW would your child like to be the 'boss' of their school holiday program?

involved," Mini Boss Holiday Programs director Duncan MacRae said.

At Mini Boss Holiday Programs, kids build their own holiday schedule from more than 15 activities on offer.

"By the second morning, kids are running through the door which is really comforting for mums and dads.

The concept is proving to be a real winner, with children genuinely eager to discover the fun awaiting them at the program run out of Strathcona Baptist Girls Grammar School in Canterbury.

"Parents say 'I don't feel guilty about leaving my kid here' because they are having such a fun time."

"By giving children a choice about how they want to spend their school holidays we find they really get

Activities are run by educators who are experts in their field, such as drama, dance and sports, between

Mini Boss Holiday Programs are open to children from Prep to Grade 6.

avoid disappointment.

Kids can choose activities from the following categories: active, business, creative sessions and major academies.

For bookings or more information, visit www.miniboss.com.au

Examples include court sports, science discovery, newsroom, art academy and senior cooking.

Eligible families are entitled to Child Care Subsidy (CCS) payments for children attending the program. Sibling and referral discounts are also available.

Places for the spring holiday program are limited, so book early to

school holidays that are

Mini Boss Holiday Programs September School Holidays Week 1 Monday 23 - Thursday 26 September (No Friday which is the AFL Grand Final Public Holiday.

Week 2: Monday 30 September Friday 4 October. Operates daily 8am-6pm.

Bookings: www.miniboss.com.au

A New Direction in an Active Learning Environment

Distinctive Features of Andale School: s $EVELOPMENTAL CURRICULUM s %XPERIENCED STAFF s )NDIVIDUAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS s 3MALL CLASS SIZES s 3PEECH 0ATHOLOGIST ON SITE s 3CHOOL 0SYCHOLOGIST ON SITE Specialist Programs: s !RT s -USIC AND $RAMA s 3PORT s 3OCIAL 3KILLS s 0ERCEPTUAL -OTOR 0ROGRAM

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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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more than just fun!

8am and 6pm.

84 Charles Street Kew 3101 4ELEPHONE s WWW ANDALE VIC EDU AU %MAIL ANDALESCHOOL ANDALE VIC EDU AU www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

SPRING 2019 27

Education

Kinder part of Stonnington’s social fabric NESTLED next to Grosvenor Street parkland sits 99-year-old Renown Kindergarten.

Opening its doors in 1920, Renown is an integral part of Stonnington's social fabric.

The surrounding environs provide a tranquil setting, which is complemented by dynamic teaching that honours Renown's history whilst embracing cutting edge curriculum ideas.

Program Director, Sally Norman, identifies Renown's focus on "nurturing global citizens who are aware of the history of the land on which they play; and are encouraged to explore modern concepts about today's society".

Never still, Renown is constantly learning. It is this mindset that's resulted in Renown being invited to join the innovative Being Equal program being run out across Stonnington and Port Phillip.

Dedicated to progressive educational practices, staff actively participate in working groups promoting reconciliation, anti-bias and health and wellbeing. This work flows directly into programming, helping children keep pace with the rapidly changing world around them.

language lessons delivered within the four-year-old programs.

Enriching this concept of the global citizen is Renown's bilingual program that combines the French and Australian curricula, as well as French

"Understanding our community and its needs is at the heart of our program design and has led to Renown establishing Extended Care," Sally said.

Two children T hild engaged d iin an experience i b based d around d Australia's A li ' Indigenous I di culture l at Renown R Kinder.

Ki d

"Offering extended hours has enabled Renown to remain a sessional kindergarten whilst meeting the changing needs of our families."

bilingual programs.

It is also planning its 100th birthday celebrations to which the community will be invited in 2020.

Renown is now open for enrolments across its three-year-old, four-year-old and

RENOWN KINDERGARTEN

Vaca n

cies

Est. 1920

Honouring each child. Nurturing tomorrow’s global citizens.

Renown Kindergarten South Yarra, is a well established community kindergarten delivering quality 3 and 4 year old programs, as well as our specialised French Bilingual program.

Rated “Exceeding” and guided by almost 100 years of experience, Renown is committed to nurturing children’s joy of learning through dynamic programming and an open invitation to explore.

Our community benefits from Renown’s highly qualified staff and our unique combination of programs.

We develop strong relationships with families in our sessional programs, whilst the extended care helps to meet our families’ changing needs.

Renown is now open for enrolments for 2020.

Contact us today to secure a place: Email: enrolments@renown.org.au | Phone: 03 9827 4747 | Learn more: www.renown.org.au 28 SPRING 2019

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

"What may reduce it is educating students on appropriate phone use, and respectful behaviours."

Education

Ms McHardy said schools, for many years, had encouraged 'Bring Your Own Device' and students who didn't have iPads or laptops typically used smart phones in the classroom.

These students, she said, would be disadvantaged.

"Some families can only afford one device for their child.

"In the majority of cases, a mobile phone would be the first choice, as it has multiple uses, and offers security to students travelling alone."

to ring in the new school year

By Melissa Grant VICTORIAN students will soon be banned from using their phones during school hours.

The ban is being introduced to reduce the distraction of mobiles in classrooms, tackle cyber bullying and improve student learning outcomes.

However, the ban isn't receiving a ringing endorsement from some parents.

Parents Victoria doesn't support the blanket phone ban amid concerns around security, enforcement and home-school communication.

students may be disadvantaged by the policy and that it won't actually do much to reduce cyber bullying.

From Term 1 next year, students at state primary and high schools across Victoria will be required to switch off their phones and store them securely in lockers from the start of the school day to the final bell.

When emergencies occur, parents and guardians can reach their child by calling the school.

The only exceptions to the ban will be where students use phones to monitor health conditions, or where teachers instruct students to bring their phones for a classroom activity.

"This will remove a major distraction

There are also concerns some

from our classrooms, so that teachers can teach, and students can learn in a more focused, positive and supported environment," Education Minister James Merlino said.

"Half of all young people have experienced cyber bullying. By banning mobiles we can stop it at the school gate."

However, Parents Victoria Executive Officer Gail McHardy says there has been no research presented that suggests most cyber bullying actually occurs during school hours or that it will be reduced by the incoming ban.

"The ban may push cyber bullying into another time period, but won't reduce it," she said.

The state government has announced $12.4 million to deliver resources for schools to securely store student mobile phones. Schools can apply for funding for secure storage resources, including upgraded lockers, padlocks, storage cupboards and secured boxes for home rooms. Lockable pouches are also being investigated as an storage option.

Parents have also expressed concerns about not being able to directly contact their children during school hours and have reservations about how the policy will be policed.

"Some schools who already have implemented phone ban policy cannot claim 100 per cent compliance by all students," Ms McHardy said. "(We) don't want it resulting in school suspensions."

The Department of Education and Training has begun working with schools to prepare them for the introduction of the ban.

Latitude Music Studios offers classes in: ~ piano ~ violin ~ viola ~ trumpet ~ cello ~ theory ~ VCE Music

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Mobile phone ban

Parents are also concerned about the storage of phones as lockers can be broken into and not all students have one.

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

SPRING 2019 29

Education

Smart school bags on the way Rama Azadmanesh and her smart school bag created by Deakin University researchers.

STUDENTS may soon have absolutely no excuses for forgetting their homework or lunch.

Australian researchers have developed a 'smart school bag' capable of alerting students and parents to items that haven't been packed.

The school bag features built-in hardware and software to ensure it's been packed correctly with what a student requires for the day.

The bag can even tell if an item isn't needed and should be left at home, ensuring schoolchildren aren't lugging around unnecessary weight.

The smart school bag uses radio frequency identification (RFID) tags to detect items in the bag and Internet of Things (IOT) technology to check its contents against the daily school plan.

It has the capability to send content alerts by smartphone to students, parents and teachers.

Although the smart school bag sounds incredibly futuristic, it may soon become an item commonly used by Australian students.

The Deakin University engineering team responsible have designed a prototype smart schoolbag that includes

The Smart School Bag app, developed by Deakin School of Engineering researchers.

the smartphone application which could retail for between $125 and $150, making it an affordable option for many families.

One of the creators, Dr Hamid Abdi, says the smart school bag will make the often difficult task of packing much easier.

"We think the smart school bag will save a lot of time and stress that occurs when homework, hats or lunches are left home by mistake, especially if that requires parents to quickly race home to collect the missing item," he explained.

"A mobile application developed in

this project lets parents see the items in the bag and automatically checks them off against the timetable, identifying what is missing and notifies parents if anything else needs to be packed.

"With a smart school bag, children won't need to leave everything in their bag every day. The system helps them pack only what is needed that day and not worry about forgetting something the next day."

The engineering team are now at the demonstration stage and looking for commercial partners to take their smart school bag project to the next level.

Spectacular new creche opens at Bialik BIALIK College is delighted to announce that its spectacular new creche, the Judith Hellen Children's Centre, opened on 1 July this year.

The state-of-the-art facility warmly welcomes children as young as 3 months through to 3 years to its inclusive, nurturing community.

Bialik is also thrilled to report the recent appointment of Creche Manager, Melanie Turkopp.

Melanie comes to Bialik with 30 years of experience in the early childhood profession and has also worked with VCAA (Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority) to create

resources that highlight preschool children as confident, intelligent and active participants in their world.

"Infants and toddlers have long been a focus of my attention, curiosity and pure amazement because of their innate ability to explore, discover and be involved learners," Melanie explained.

Flexible and child-centred, the Bialik Creche is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, as well as Bialik's Cultures of Thinking project, developed in collaboration with the University of Harvard, and which encompasses and reflects the whole school pedagogy.

The creche is part of Bialik's award-winning ELC, which is renowned for its outstanding educators and excellent educational outcomes.

It is located in a stunning new building on the Bialik campus, a secure and safe environment with access to superb facilities like Bialik's Gringlas Sports Centre, gyms, libraries and beautiful outdoor areas.

Melanie is now taking interested families on tours of the creche.

Please contact her on 03 9822 7982 to make a booking for a personal tour.

Bialik has opened a spectacular new Creche.

12425108-RC38-19

30 SPRING 2019

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Books

A horsey tale to inspire kids

By Romy Stephens AN idea for a great story is often drawn from personal experience.

That's exactly the case for Kaylee Ison, whose children's novel, Ashley's Sparrow, stems from her memories growing up in the Yarra Valley.

As a child, Kaylee was a shy girl who often struggled to find confidence in herself. But the one place she felt on top of the world was on the back of her horse.

"I grew up as a horse rider. I loved horses, lived and breathed them," she said.

"I was pretty shy growing up and I had this one pony, he gave me a lot of confidence.

"He taught me to ride when I was little."

Kaylee always knew her story resembled that of many children who struggle to find self-belief, so she decided to write a story about it.

Ashley's Sparrow is about a young girl and a horse that both had tragic pasts so they come together to find healing.

The main character, Bridie, is a fearless cross-country rider before she suffers a tragic accident and refuses to ride again. It's not until she meets a horse called Sparrow - whose trust has been abused by his past rider - that she faces the decision to get back in the saddle and help Sparrow learn to trust again.

Kaylee said her experience growing up with horses and learning so much from them helped inspire the narrative.

"Horses taught me a lot growing up and gave me a lot of confidence," she said.

"They are an amazing creature, they can teach us a lot about ourselves."

The book has been a work in progress for the past five years. It took two years to write and another three to finalise and have published.

After initially struggling to go down the typical route of finding a publisher, Kaylee decided to self-publish. She found an artist who used to live in the Yarra Valley to create the front cover and had former university classmates, family and friends do the proofreading.

She is now in the process of writing a

Kaylee Ison with her book, Ashley's Sparrow, which stems from her memories growing up as a horse rider.

Picture: Rob Carew

second book as part of what she anticipates to be an entire series.

healing and finding faith in yourself again after a tragic accident.

Kaylee hopes Ashley's Sparrow can help young children going through tough times.

"I hope it helps readers find hope again and keep going."

"The book itself is about finding

Ashley's Sparrow is available at lulu.com

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s books...

How (not) to Annoy Dad

Pig the Tourist

Dave Hughes & Holly Ife, illustrated by Heath McKenzie

OUR favourite pug, Pig is back!

This time, the naughty but lovable pup is off on holidays.

Pig, as you could probably guess, is a horrid traveller who you can count on to ruin a vacation - regardless of where it is. Even in places of wild celebration, he somehow creates absolute devastation!

But Pig's horrid holiday behaviour may come back to bite him - hard. A funny rhyming story perfect for reading with kids aged 3+ from the wildly popular Pig series, which has sold more than four million print copies.

AN entertaining children's book from comedian and TV/Radio personality Dave Hughes and wife Holly Ife. The pair have written a funny book about the things that go wrong when dad spends the day with the kids.

Cue a very messy breakfast, playground toilet dramas, embarrassing moments at the library and a lot of questions.

And dad don't even think about looking at your phone while you're on the throne! We wonder if this book is based on real life...

A fun book to read with kids aged 3+

Aaron Blabey

Scholastic, RRP $17.99

Scholastic, RRP $17.99

Puppy Diary: The Great Toy Rescue

Aliens & U.F.O.S

Promise

Jonathan J Moore

Alexandra Alt

Yvette Poshogilan, illustrated by Phil Judd

DO aliens actually exist? It's a question many kids ask themselves - and this book will certainly satisfy their curiosity and, perhaps, add to their belief that they do! Years of research into aliens and UFOs are presented in this paperback including sightings, abductions and evidence of alien visits. If the stories really are true, we can only hope those extraterrestrials come in peace!

SET in Nazi Germany, Promise is a harrowing first love story that chronicles World War II.

AN adorable book, written from the perspective of a Schnoodle puppy called Archie. The pooch shares the essentials, including how he got his name, before embarking on his biggest ever adventure - doggy daycare! It gets off to a good start with the premises smelling like the sweet combination of liver treats and the inside of him mum's slippers. However, the tale takes a terrible turn when Archie realises his favourite toy, Foxy, is gone.

With other pups also missing their toys, it's operation toy rescue!

A 'pawsome' read for kids aged 6+

A great read for teens (particularly the alien obsessed).

New Holland Publishers, RRP $19.99

Teenage lovers Lene and Ludwig both despise the compulsory Hitler Youth, and their anti-war attitude gets them noticed by squad leaders.

When 17-year-old Ludwig is called to the Eastern Front in 1943, the lovers can only promise each other to believe they'll one day be reunited.

However, Ludwig goes missing within weeks and three years pass before Lene returns to Berlin to find out what happened to her first love.

Captivating historical fiction for readers aged 12+ Scholastic, RRP $16.99

Scholastic, RRP $9.99 www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

SPRING 2019 31

Fashion

Fashionable, ethical swimwear for kids TYOUB is a premium, ethical, sustainable swimwear brand featuring eco-friendly reusable swim diapers for babies and toddlers designed in Australia.

The brand's mission is to make eco-friendly, Australian made UPF50+ certified sun-protection swimwear for kids with clever, colourful and stylish prints in keeping with the principles of slow fashion and a greener fashion footprint.

Lisa Sjoblom is the woman behind the brand. With a background in fashion and graphic design, she has researched ways to improve the fit, functionality and life cycle of a garment with extensive pattern engineering and the use of the latest textile innovations.

With three active girls, Lisa has spent many hours at swimming lessons, gymnastics training, and basketball and netball games.

When she decided to focus her business on stretch fabrics for active

32 SPRING 2019

wear, the luxury soft fabric made from regenerated nylon was an obvious choice.

Lisa was dismayed by what she saw when she'd take her own children to swimming lessons.

There were bins filled with disposable swim nappies and she also noticed many poorly-made, cheaper swimsuits that would degenerate and wear out within months.

"I knew that adult's swimwear would last season after season and I wanted quality kids swimwear that could be worn again and again, and passed down from child to child," she said.

The double gusset protection in the reusable swim nappy is the eco-warrior and means that no other additional/ disposable swim diaper is needed.

Tyoub is trading online, at selective stockists and at Independent Design Markets across Melbourne.

Connect with Tyoub on Instagram @tyoubwear and www.tyoub.com.au

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premium. ethical. sustainable. reusable.

recycle - swimwear made with sustainable regenerated nylon. recover - 100% ocean plastics and ghost fishing nets! respect - UPF50+ Sun protection for delicate young skin. eco-friendly - no disposable swim nappy needed. economical - reusable products saves you money.

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SPRING 2019 33

Reality Bites

Kristen Dias with Joey and Scarlett with her Travel Karma activity case.

Picture: Rob Carew

Stress less travelling with kids

By Danielle Galvin ONE of the most anxiety inducing tasks any parent can endure with children is hopping on an aeroplane, while mentally preparing for a long haul fight with a baby and toddler in tow.

The mad rush at the airport with baggage and strollers and hyped-up or over-tired kids can be stressful enough in itself, let alone the hours-long flight to look forward to with a child intent on making their presence known on a packed flight.

engaged and captivated.

The idea was born out of her own travel willingness and sense of adventure with her first child, Scarlett.

She travelled with her for the first time when she was only seven-weeks old, which would probably be a terrifying prospect for many first-time parents.

Kristen was a teacher for 10 years and has a Master of Education.

But well-travelled mum of two Kristen Dias has come up with a business idea to take some of the stress out of plane travel.

There are some similar ideas out there to hers, but Kristen has put a lot of thought into putting together different activities in each of the travel packs for kids. It includes activity ideas, craft materials, board games, colouring pages, puzzles, a travel journal, various bags of creative goodies, and more.

Her start-up business, Travel Karma, includes educationally designed activity packs not only to keep kids busy while travelling but to keep them

"I found heaps of websites with advice on how to put stuff together yourself, but none that was already done and put together," she said.

"Everything has educational design behind it. I've thought about what will they learn when they do this or that.

"It's all fine motor skills, creativity, learning colours or whatever the case may be."

She didn't just want to hand her daughter a box with a few stickers or pencils inside, she wanted to carefully craft and design activities to keep her engaged and learning something new.

And while originally the idea came from making travelling easier, she said it could be useful while eating out or at a wedding.

It's another tool to keep the kids off their devices.

The Dias family certainly are welltravelled, flying to Perth, Vietnam, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Sydney the Gold Coast and India twice.

Each time she travels, Kristen picks up a new hack like always checking in with the flight attendant to ask if they have a spare snack or something for the kids.

She also said once you get on a plane, try and let the stress go, using the analogy that like labour at least it has an end point.

Kristen is big on being prepared and doing your research.

"As much stuff as you bring, even if you don't use it, you feel prepared," she said.

"It's like your nappy bag - there's so much stuff you almost never use, but that one day you need it it's in there.

"Don't listen to the people who say to give up."

It's that carefree attitude that's helped her take the stress out of travel.

Kristen's top tips for taking kids on a road trip

KRISTEN travelled with her 1-year-old son and 4-year-old daughter from Melbourne to Sydney and back (over 2500 kilometres in total) within less than one week over the Christmas break, so these no-fail road trip tips have been tried and tested!

34 SPRING 2019

1. The most important tip is to plan ahead, and allow a lot more time than you would for a trip without kids. Plan your trip with an absolute maximum of six hours driving in one day with break stops every two hours or so. A sample itinerary - you could leave at 9am, drive til 11am. Have a break til 11.30am, drive til 1.30pm, stop for 90 minutes for lunch and play. Get back on the road at 3pm.

Drive til 5pm. You could leave an hour earlier and try to reach your destination by 4pm which would avoid traffic jams. Kids need to go to

the toilet more often than adults generally do and get out to stretch their legs, and ideally have a snack.

A great idea is to google some playgrounds along the way in little towns and let your children play before getting in the car again (then hopefully they'll be tired and have a sleep!). Use www.playgroundfinder. com/ to find a playground in the town you are passing through.

2. Make sure you have music the kids enjoy listening to in the car 3. Bring lots of snacks that are easy to pass over the seats to your children,

such as apples and bananas, packets of sultanas, crackers etc.

4. Pack some toys such as books, teddies to cuddle (and hopefully have a snooze!)

5. Bring an activity kit such as the travel karma activity pack www. travelkarma.com 6. Play eye spy or Spotto, looking out the car window at cows, windmills, tractors etc. (If I'm getting tired of eye spy I tell my kids to see if they can find a koala in the gum trees ... it usually distracts them for a while!) www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Reality Bites

Mum Louisa with her children Josie and Jonny.

Picture: Rob Carew

Doctor changes careers during IVF

By Melissa Meehan

realisation for two medically trained professionals.

She was mentored by a fellow doctor who was trained in cosmetic medicine.

Sam and their struggles, the ups and downs."

DR Louisa Yim and her husband's journey into parenthood is a story of resilience, hope and never giving up.

Enlisting the help of fertility specialist Dr Lynn Burmeister, they tried five cycles before they were successful.

Today, they have two beautiful, longed-for children conceived through IVF treatment.

"Everyone's journey is very different.

It took us about two years of trying naturally and about five years with IVF," she said.

The change in career path was a big step, but now she calls her line of work the "art of medicine" and runs her business, Total Bliss Beauty in Greensborough, where she works as a cosmetic doctor.

The book, entitled 'Moving Beyond the Unspoken Grief: A doctor's memoir into on her own IVF journey as a patient' has been translated into Chinese.

For two long years, the Kew East couple tried to conceive naturally.

They knew they were ready to become parents - they were settled into their careers as doctors and excited for the next stage of their lives together.

"At the time I was working as a GP specialising in antenatal women's health, so looking at women prepregnancy and looking after women during pregnancy, and also a lot of women's health, obstetrics," she explained.

"I was also working at a student health service in the city.

"During that time, whilst I was trying, it dawned on us we may need help, medical help."

It took some time to realise that they may need some assistance falling pregnant, an incredibly difficult www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

"During that time it involved a lot of blood tests, medical appointments, extra tests, lots of poking and prodding and needles.

"Each cycle, each try was quite a rollercoaster of emotions.

"It created a new career for me whilst I can focus on creating a family and I was able to do that with my new job," she said.

For Louisa and her husband, staying open about their struggles and communicating made the setbacks and emotional toll of IVF all the more bearable.

The English version is available on Amazon AUS/US and Chinese version is available on Amazon China.

"The goal was to try and get the word out there and tell people they are not alone," Louisa explained.

"In fact, there are lots of people who are going through IVF.

She kept a diary, penning heartfelt letters to the baby she so desperately wanted.

"Unfortunately it's not very black and white - what I mean by that is those who are still trying and those who have crossed the bridge into successful pregnancy.

"It was hard emotionally for me, I found it really difficult to take myself out it.

"The idea was I'd write to my future child, I don't know if he or she would ever exist," she said.

"There are all of these people on the bridge in limbo. Everyone has their own journey and story as well.

"Eventually I had to give myself a break, I put my stethoscopes aside."

"I kept an email entry, diary and then after my daughter was born I gathered all the information of the diary and I put it into a book. I penned it under the character's name Dr Sarah Lnyy.

"All my best wishes to those who are undergoing IVF treatments. Don't be afraid to ask questions, keep communicating with your partner and keep your feelings in check."

"Whilst I was working I encountered a lot of other women who fell pregnant quite easily and unfortunately I had to treat women with unplanned pregnancies.

And while she would like to return to general practice, Louisa felt a change was necessary while they endured the countless IVF treatments.

"It narrates the story of Sarah and

- with Danielle Galvin SPRING 2019 35

Reality Bites

Horror button battery ordeal puts mum on a mission

By Melissa Grant SIX-YEAR-OLD Shaylah Carmichael is lucky to be alive.

For months, a deadly button battery was stuck inside the little girl's oesophagus.

Mum Kirra long suspected something was seriously wrong - her usually happy daughter was vomiting, refusing to eat and complaining of a sore chest and throat.

Never could she have imagined the source of pain was a button battery, a coin-sized device that can burn through the oesophagus within hours, leading to serious injury or death.

Although desperate for answers, Kirra says a number of medical appointments failed to shed any light on the dire situation.

When Shaylah was unable to keep liquids down on March 31 this year, she presented to Casey Hospital's emergency department.

Kirra said she was initially told to take Shaylah home but refused. The mother of three said a barium swallow test was eventually ordered by a pediatrician, who was concerned by a home video showing the little girl drinking and making strange gurgling sounds.

That test was preceded by an X-ray, which revealed Shaylah had swallowed a button battery. She was then rushed to the Monash Children's Centre for emergency surgery.

"We didn't know whether she was going to survive," Kirra recalled.

"They said 'let's just make it through the first 12 hours, then 24 hours, then 48 hours'."

Kirra said Shaylah, affectionately known as Dolly, was placed in an induced coma for three days and fed through a nasogastric tube for two months.

"Dolly had to be fed through the tube because her oesophagus was so badly eroded from the batteries," she said.

Kirra estimates the button battery was stuck inside Shaylah for six months.

The prep student is now undergoing regular surgeries to dilate her oesophagus and her long-term prognosis is unclear.

at Casey Hospital," the statement said.

"Button batteries are small and can cause serious injuries in children. They are often found in toys and other devices that children like to chew, which makes them all the more dangerous and often require surgery to remove."

Kirra is now on a mission to have mandatory safety standards introduced for button batteries.

"Look at how many kids have died from this," she said.

"They (devices with button batteries) are just sitting there on racks ready for any kid to pick up."

Kirra said it wasn't until after the ordeal that Shaylah revealed the button battery had come from the remote used for the family's television soundbar.

"She said 'I was just playing with it and accidentally swallowed it'.

"I said 'why didn't you tell dad?'

"She said, 'I went to the toilet, coughed and it went away'."

In August, Kirra met with Kidsafe Victoria to discuss raising greater awareness about the dangers of button batteries.

"If ingested, a button battery can become stuck in a child's throat where saliva immediately triggers an electrical current which causes a chemical reaction that can burn the oesophagus in as little as two hours, causing severe life-threatening injuries and in some cases death," Kidsafe Victoria General Manager Jason Chambers said.

Kidsafe Victoria supports calls for tougher safety regulations and a mandatory safety standard for products containing button batteries.

The Australian Consumer and Commission (ACCC) has called for the government to introduce new safety standards, including a requirement for all button batteries to be secured inside products.

Kirra's message to parents is to dispose of anything that may be powered by a button battery.

"It's just not worth the risk," she said.

The x-ray that clearly showed the button battery stuck inside Shaylah.

BUTTON BATTERIES - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: ■ Button batteries can burn through the oesophagus in hours, causing internal burns, severe bleeding or death.

She believes her youngest child is incredibly lucky to have survived.

■ Common items button batteries are found in include: Remotes, watches, thermometers, calculators, torch keyrings, hearing aids, kitchen scales, musical greeting cards, fake candles

"Dolly's button battery wasn't fully charged. They said she is so lucky. They said (at the time) another 24 hours and she wouldn't be here," she said.

■ Items with button batteries should have a secure battery compartment and placed out of the reach of children

In a statement, Monash Health said it had apologised to the Carmichael family.

36 SPRING 2019

Shaylah recovering in hospital from her ordeal.

The little girl has a long road ahead.

Kidsafe estimates 20 children each week present to Australian emergency departments with a button battery related injury - that's more than 1000 kids every year.

"The doctors said 'we haven't seen a case like this before. We will have to take it day by day'," Kirra said.

"Monash Health has been in touch with the family to discuss the treatment and care provided and apologised for any distress caused by their experience

Shaylah with mum Kirra Carmichael.

■ A child who has swallowed a button battery may develop chest pain, coughing, nausea/vomiting, difficulty swallowing and fever ■ If you think a child has swallowed a button battery immediately phone the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.

The button battery.

(Source: Kidsafe Victoria) www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Reality Bites

Author Katrina Lehman with her first book ''Wren'' and three children. Sunday, 6, Finn, 4, and Charlotte, 9.

Picture: Rob Carew

Busy mum pens creative kids books

By Melissa Meehan CHILDREN'S author Katrina Lehman wears many different hats.

She's a busy mum of three young children, an editor, a university teacher, a mentor through the Australian Society of Authors, and a content writer for Lauriston Girls' School.

Somehow, last year, Katrina found the time to write a picture book, Wren, published by Scribe both in Australia and the UK. With a background as a children's book editor with Penguin for 15 years, delving into the creative world of children's picture books seemed a natural next step.

"There is something magical and so complex about picture books. Imagine trying to tell an entire novel - a great story, evocative setting, heartfelt characters, lyrical language and a strong message - in 32 pages! And then

there are the illustrations ... " Katrina was pregnant with number three and teaching fiction writing workshops for aspiring authors at night after her editor day job when she finally decided it was time to stop procrastinating.

Inspired by the creative buzz of the workshops, she sat in a cafe after each session and wrote her own stories.

The Caulfield East mum grew up on a farm in regional NSW and believes there's something special about raising kids outdoors.

Unfortunately, in a modern world, that's not a reality for most Australian kids and this has been a theme across her writing.

"The creative play and independence that was part of my childhood on a farm is something I'll never be able to give my kids," Katrina said.

"I wrote Wren as a sort of antidote to the structured play of an urban

upbringing and the chaos of a large family in that landscape.

"It's also about finding your place in a family. As one of five siblings, Wren just wants some peace and quiet, but instead he gets a very noisy baby sister.

So he packs up and goes to his grandparents on the farm. Of course, he learns that isn't the solution."

Katrina's second picture book, Izzy and Frank, is about a girl who lives on an island in a lighthouse with her best friend Frank the seagull. It's due out in February 2020 in the UK and Australia, and Katrina was excited to recently find out that it will also be published in North America.

"Again, it's about a childhood filled with creative outdoor play," she explained.

"But then Izzy has to move to the mainland to go to school. She doesn't like the city, and she doesn't understand

the children and their structured play.

It's all about independence, growing up and learning how to embrace both worlds."

In both Wren and Izzy and Frank, these important themes of identity and belonging are evident.

"I am fascinated by family dynamics and pivotal moments in a person's life, like starting school or gaining a new sibling," Katrina said.

"My stories are about resilience and independence, and I think this resonates strongly with families today."

Katrina is hoping to start up writing workshops again locally to help other writers achieve their dreams. You can find Katrina's picture books at all good bookshops and follow her on Instagram @katrina.lehman. www.scribepublications.com.au/ books-authors/books/wren - with Danielle Galvin

Mumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seatbelt covers for special needs kids go viral

By Melissa Grant WORRIED about what would happen to her daughter in a car crash, Natalie Bell made a personalised seatbelt cover to make her little girl's hearing loss known to first responders.

Natalie was thinking a few of her friends might be interested.

"The post got 54 million views," Natalie explained.

"I got thousands of orders from all over the world - South Africa, Canada, the UK. I'm now mass producing the seatbelt covers as I can't keep up with the orders."

There are 13 different seatbelt covers www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

"If she needs an MRI then the cochlear implant needs to taken out and put back in."

The seatbelt cover for her daughter 10-year-old Shae, who lost her hearing as a baby, simply reads: "I am deaf. I have a cochlear implant. No MRI."

Natalie has also made a range of other personalised items inspired by Shae.

Although people can wear emergency information jewellery to communicate important medical information, Natalie wanted to make her daughter's condition obvious to first responders.

The mum of five posted about her simple but potentially life-saving creation on her Facebook page, Personalised by Nat, advising she could make seatbelt covers any special needs.

Never in her wildest dreams did she imagine that the post would go viral and lead to thousands of orders from all over the world.

whose blood doesn't clot and a girl's whose organs are on the opposite side of her body.

"It's so they know that she's deaf, that she's not going to be able to hear them," she explained.

Shae Bell wearing the seatbelt cover that makes her hearing loss known to first responders. Pictures: Gary Sissons

"It's not that she's ignoring them - they just need to interact with her in a different way."

with medical information about a range of disabilities and conditions. The covers, which can be attached to backpacks, can also be personalised.

Natalie said it was also imperative that medical personnel were alerted to the dangers of Shae undergoing an MRI scan.

So far, Natalie has received orders for people with a variety of disabilities and medical conditions, including children

"The magnet placed on in the inside of her head, it can move and cause a lot of damage," Natalie explained.

The stay-at-home mum began making the items, including Auslan clocks, earlier this year as a way to keep her busy during the week and potentially earn some income.

It's the second business venture for Natalie, who also owns a jumping castle business with her husband.

"I thought 'I need something else to do during the week - I'm getting a bit bored even though I've got the two little kids at home!'" the crafty mum, who previously worked in aged care, said.

With thousands of orders to fulfil and five kids aged 1 to 15, she certainly won't be bored any time soon.

Although she still can't believe her almost overnight success.

"It's just been absolutely amazing," she said.

SPRING 2019 37

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Kids Calendar

What's on this spring

6 & 7 SEPTEMBER, 25 SEPTEMBER, 26 OCTOBER

16 SEPTEMBER, 21 OCTOBER, 18 NOVEMBER

MELBOURNE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

MAKE IT! AFTER SCHOOL CLUB HAWTHORN

The Little Mermaid In Concert - Friday 6 September at 7.30pm, Saturday 7 September at 1pm and 7.30pm

After school clubs offer a range of exciting activities such as craft, construction, science and robotics.

Celebrate the 30th anniversary of Disney's classic 1989 animation, The Little Mermaid in concert, live to film with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.

Suitable for school children. Free event at the Hawthorn Library. No registration required.

Jams for Fams: Meeting Mendelssohn - Wednesday 25 September at 12pm.

MSO invites YOU for an interactive musical adventure exploring Felix Mendelssohn's vibrantly vivid, vivacious, vital and volatile Violin Concerto!

Fairytale Ball - Saturday 26 October at 11.30am.The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra invites children aged 3-11 to bring their grown-ups to Hamer Hall for the inaugural Fairytale Ball!

Children are encouraged to dress up and dance during the 45-minute performance, and join in pre-concert activities in the specially-decorated Hamer Hall foyers.

24 SEPTEMBER - 4 OCTOBER

7 OCTOBER - 7 DECEMBER

HEIDE MUSEUM HOLIDAY PROGRAMS

BUGS GYMNASTICS

Drop-off workshops designed for primary school children aged 6-12.

All materials supplied.

BYO smocks and optional snack if required (no nut products please).

19-21 SEPTEMBER LASER BEAK MAN

Child $38. Concession $35. Member $33

Term 3 runs until 21 September, term 4 starts 7 October-7 December.

Exploding with the offbeat humour and wit of award-winning artist Tim Sharp, enter the hyper coloured world of Laser Beak Man.

See the website for full details and times.

10 OCTOBER & 7 NOVEMBER

See the cult-classic artwork come to life with full-stage animations and over 35 original puppets by Dead Puppet Society.Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne Tickets $22-$39. www. artscentremelbourne.com.au

21 SEPTEMBER - 5 OCTOBER WONDERLAND SPIEGELTENT

EXPERIENCE LAURISTON 25 SEPTEMBER NEW PAPER WORLD Take the old daily news and make a magical new world out of it!

Recycled newspapers will be used to design a maze of spaces, objects and wearable items.

Stories are characters will then be invented to populate the New Paper World.

The inaugural Wonderland Spiegeltent Festival will entertain audiences of all ages this spring at Federation Square's The Paddock.

Tickets $25 (accompanying adult included in ticket price)

For dates and more information, visit https://www.wonderlandspiegeltent. com.au/federation_square

25 - 28 SEPTEMBER

Fairfax Studio, Arts Centre Melbourne

14 SEPTEMBER - 13 OCTOBER

23 & 30 SEPTEMBER, 3 OCTOBER & 9 NOVEMBER

TESSELAAR TULIP FESTIVAL

INSTANT ROCKSTAR

Experience 900,000 tulips in every colour at the incredible Tesselaar Tulip Festival in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges.

Instant Rockstar workshops let you be the star!

Bedtime storytime is an enjoyable session suitable for the whole family, hosted by the Boroondara Library Service.

Remember to wear your pyjamas and bring your favourite teddy.

No registrations required. 6pm-6.45pm

There's a Kids LOL! Week followed by Superhero Week, and there's plenty of delicious food, coffee, as well as an animal petting zoo, craft workshops, face painters, a treasure hunt, Dutch games, and the famous Tulip Train.

Participants compose their own piece of music using the library of thousands of sound samples, from dubstep to jazz to rock.

They then use their song to create a music video!Suitable for kids aged 8-12.

Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

Kids entry is free.

The Channel, Arts Centre Melbourne

The festival is on 10am-5pm daily, and is located at 357 - 359 Monbulk Road, Silvan

Tickets $25. Adults attend free of charge.

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

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The gym is located at 76 Highbury Road, Burwood.

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Suitable for kids aged 5-8. Parents or guardians are encouraged to participate.

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Programs include kinder gym, casual play day, recreational, parties and more.

Primary children aged five are welcome when booking with an older sibling.

We welcome children with additional needs and their carers.

The Wonderland Spiegeltent is a unique venue home to world class performances including comedy, acrobatics, aerial, circus, music and dance.

11 SEPTEMBER, 9 OCTOBER

Bugs Gymnastics has classes for boys and girls to learn the fundamental gymnastics skills in a supportive and fun environment.

The Channel, Arts Centre Melbourne

www.artscentremelbourne.com.au

TETRIS Witness four performers intertwine and connect, to bring this classic video game to life.

Using strength, agility and acrobotic skill, the highly skilled acrobatic quartet will mimic and recreate moves from Tetris, Twister and Rubik's Cube.

This unique dance work uses strength, agility and acrobatic skill to mimic and reimagine moves from not only the cross generational game 'Tetris' but also 'Twister'.

The audience will also be invited on stage to imitate the troupe and create moves of their own!

Tickets $28. Visit www. artscentremelbourne.com.au

Lauriston's Kindergarten teachers work hard to encourage individual strengths and interests and to create rich environments where children can immerse themselves in play-based learning. Join us to find out more about our innovative programs, rich and comprehensive coeducational environment and the unique characteristics of Lauriston.

9.30am-11am - Lauriston Girls' School

13 OCTOBER SPRING INTO GARDENING Victoria Gardens, Prahran Spring into Gardening is the perfect event for getting inspiration and tips on gardening and sustainable living.

Costa Georgiadis from ABC's Gardening Australia returns to host the festival that features free workshops, expert demonstrations, hands-on kids' activities, and market stalls to help you start planting and preparing your garden for summer.

Loads children's activities, roving entertainment, live music and ecofriendly food trucks.

11am-3pm. For the full program visit stonnington.vic.gov.au

31 OCTOBER - 4 NOVEMBER SPOOKTOBER HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL Get set for the spine-chilling fright fest that will rock St Kilda this Halloween!

Melbourne's two biggest Halloween events unite to terrify all who attend.

This eight-day Halloween extravaganza is not to be missed! Tickets at halloween. melbourne SPRING 2019 39

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40 SPRING 2019

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