Stonnington Boroondara Kids Summer 2019

SUMMER

Music bringing

generations together Baby love for Married At First Sight star

Waves of summer fun at

A Star News Group Publication

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About Us

A good summer read IT'S such a cliche, but seriously, where has this year gone? Or is it just me?

Here's another cliche while I'm at it how chaotic has the end of the year been?

Everyone I speak to remarks the same thing - "wow this year has flown" and "it has been a busy/frantic/crazy few weeks".

With that in mind, looking ahead to summer and to Christmas holidays, for many of us, a well earned break is exactly what the doctor ordered.

Even if you work over this time or find yourself rushing around from social activity to Christmas get together or end of year break ups, when it all calms down, it's truly a lovely time of year.

It's been a busy time for the editorial team behind the Kids magazines.

This edition we're launching two new mastheads - Bayside Glen Eira Kids and Knox Monash Kids.

Busy in a different way for our beautiful editorial coordinator, Melissa Dorries, who welcomed her second baby into the world, beautiful Brayden.

As fate would have it, Mel finished up with us on the Friday and two days later Brayden was in her arms. No rest for the wicked!

That's three of our small team who've welcomed babies this year.

Busy, yes but lots of love and fun along the way.

Each edition, I'm so proud of what we produce.

It's the type of stories that parents, grandparents, families want to read.

I hope we can be informative, educational, and that our stories give you a different perspective on parenthood or raising children.

As always, another great column by well-known author Steve Biddulph on page 6.

He shares an anecdote on an interaction he witnessed - it's powerful reading.

We've also spoken to a paediatrician who tells us why she doesn't support the "No Vax. No Visit" posts doing the rounds on social media, on page 10.

behind the child's museum, Interaxcity in Malvern on page 7.

In time for summer we have a list of tips for grandparents who might be looking after their grandkids for extended periods of time, on page 35.

We've also chatted to Emma Isaacs, an entrepreneur who lives in LA and has 5 kids under 10, a great read by our guest editor, Narelle Coulter.

Keep a look out for our calendar of activities and events on page 42 and our books page.

And just in time for Christmas, a little gift guide on page 39.

As always we want to hear from you - so if there's a story, event, fundrasier or business we should know about in Stonnington, Boroondara an beyond, we want to hear about it! Feel free to email me danielle.galvin@ starnewsgroup.com.au Have a wonderful, safe Christmas and New Year!

A chat with the Flat Out Mum PAGE 5 Parenting today with Steve Biddulph PAGE 6 The importance of play

Caring for kids' teeth PAGE 21

REALITY BITES Holiday advice for grandparents

Your child's dental health starts with you PAGE 22

PAGE 35 Pool safety tips

Active kids

PAGE 36

PAGE 23

Travelling with 16 kids

FASHION

PAGE 37

40 years on the farm

Hot summer trends

How to have a calm Christmas

PAGE 8

PAGE 24-25

PAGE 38

Building self-confidence

BORN TO PARTY

Christmas gift guide

'No Vax, No Visit' PAGE 10 Music for the generations PAGE 11 Summer fun at Gumbuya World PAGE 12

Party time

Books and book reviews

Outdoor family fun

PAGE 40

PAGE 27

Living with Rett Syndrome

The Art Factory PAGE 28

PAGE 41

ENTERTAINMENT

PAGE 14

AK Traditions

Do parents need screen guidelines

PAGE 29

Danielle Galvin danielle.galvin@starnewsgroup.com.au Phone: 5945 0666 Photography Rob Carew

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

Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas.

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

Cover Friends Jesse and Danny were among the first to try the new slides at Gumbuya World.

Picture: Stewart Chambers

SUMMER

Summer of fun events

Music bringing

generations together Baby love for Married At First Sight star

Waves of summer fun at

A Star News Group Publication

PAGE 42

Reality star finds his true loves

EDUCATION

PAGE 16

St Catherine's

Tips from a Hello Fresh dietician

PAGE 30

PAGE 17

Practice makes perfect

Path into health

PAGE 31

PAGE 18

Bialik Creche now open

HEALTH

Editorial

PAGE 39

PAGE 26

A gift well worth giving

PAGE 15

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

Advertising Manager Mandy Clark

PAGE 7

PAGE 9

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

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

Another great read is the brains

CONTENTS IT'S YOUR LIFE

Stonnington Boroondara Kids magazine is a Star News Group publication.

PAGE 32 Genazzano

New hip dysplasia clinic

PAGE 33

PAGE 19

Kids think positive

Keeping your baby cool over summer

PAGE 34

PAGE 20

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It’s Your Life

Checking in with the Flat Out Mum OLIVIA Anderson’s become known as the ’Flat Out Mum’.

She wears many different hats - mum of four busy boys including identical twin boys, creator of Flat Out Mum Retreats, partner of Shane Crawford and more.

For anyone who follows Olivia’s social media accounts - she’s always sharing tidbits, tales, funny pictures and an honest insight into her day to day life.

Olivia spoke to Danielle Galvin about running annual getaways for mums, what it’s like being a “boy mum“ and surviving the sleepless nights with babies.

Olivia and her boys.

No doubt life changed again hugely when you and Shane welcomed your twin boys - how did you find that transition? I’ve read that the hardest time is going from one to two kids - but not sure that applies with twins!!

Tell me about the retreats that you run and how it all came about. It must take a lot of planning and organising - but no doubt that’s your forte these days!

When my twins were a few months old and I also had a three and five year old who had just started school ... as you can imagine I was totally exhausted. Shane and my mum decided to book me in to Crown for a night for and reluctantly sent me off with a friend. It sounds crazy but I didn’t want to go, I felt it was too early to leave the twins and even though I was so utterly drained, I thought they needed me at home more! After 24 hours away, some room service, me time and a full nights sleep I was literally a new woman. I felt refreshed and ready to conquer more relentless days and nights with the boys. Also, it showed everyone else how much I had actually been doing and how much work it is every single day (which is always an added bonus). We started in 2016 with some Melbourne weekends away and I have now expanded to Bali where I do an annual Retreat with my sister Emily (*she also has 3 boys!) who runs www. balifamilyvillas.com with her husband.

They sell out every year and we are 80% sold for 2020 with repeat guests and just one email. It is very rewarding.

I am a big believer in self care and believe that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Women often lose themselves in motherhood, they lose their identity and can become a bit lost.

This is normal and a part of the adjustment period I guess but I am a strong advocate for remembering YOU. What you wanted before you had kids, your own goals and what makes you genuinely happy outside of your family life. It often takes stepping out of that for a moment to see the bigger picture.

SU L ND

ST IN A AY

Olivia started the retreats a few years back, to help fellow mums recharge.

There is nothing more rewarding than watching deserving Mums rejuvenate and find themselves a little on my Retreats. Organising them is the best job ever. Plus I get to go on them also so it’s a win win!

Tell me about being the “flat out mum“ and what that entails - a typical day in your life!

There’s not really a typical day. With four boys comes four different personalities & varying needs so anything can happen! My mantra is to “embrace the chaos”. I am a planner but you also need to go with the flow and pick your battles. Some things (like houses work!) can slide for a while as you try to enjoy the little moments with your kids. From a practical point, my day starts with turning the coffee machine on & walking straight to put a load of washing on. If I don’t do several loads every day it quickly gets on top of me. Mornings are crazy during school term but now they’re all at school I

have more time for me and to work on my businesses.

What’s been your greatest lesson since becoming a mum?

I love the quote by Steve Biddulph (I have read all of his books on Raising Boys many times that “you do not make your child, you meet your child”. Before you have kids you have expectations on what type of child you & your partner may create and you quickly find out that they are are their own individual little creature with their own beliefs, talents and ideas on how they want to live their life. Once you embrace that and work with your child to find their passions, how their temperament works and how they are different to everyone else, that is a positive shift. Its a constant learning curve and I definitely do to have it all worked out. Charlie just turned 13 so the teenage years begin! I’m hoping the close bond I have with them pays off doing the next decade!

Personally I think the first baby is a huge adjustment to your life and going from one to two, you actually know what you’re in for and your life has adapted accordingly. Our twins (identical) were a huge surprise so when they were born Ben was 3 and Charlie was 5 so it was a very full on few years.

I really lowered my expectations on what I could achieve in a day and just gave in to the demands of a big, messy family. I missed out on a lot of things but you have to change your priorities, at least temporarily to survive. Not just to physically get through the load but for your mental sanity too :) Any tips or tricks for fellow mums of boys like yourself?

Hmmmm have a mop handy in the bathroom at all times as they can’t seem to pee in that very large toilet seat!

For my boys is to keep them active.

The summer is great as they love playing outside and being in the pool exhausts them. Boys have had a hard run lately and I am very mindful of teaching them that yes although “girls can run the world”, we are all equals.

They see what I do with my life and spare time and hopefully they grow up with not only a healthy respect for women, but all different types of people.

Boy mums are so lucky. They are messy and noisy and barely sit still, but mine are so affectionate and I have four little BFF’s for life. I wouldn’t have it any other way!

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SUMMER 2019/2020 5

It’s Your Life

parenting has changed

How

I’M minding the house of some friends, near the beach in Hobart. It’s about 7.00 in the morning, and there is only the sound of the waves, and seabird’s cries.

Then suddenly, on the street outside, an angry male voice rings out. “Get in the car you little shit!”.

We would talk about their own childhoods, as a way of creating empathy for the experience of their children. And begin to nudge into safer, more positive ways to get kids to behave, calm down, and be happy.

My first book The Secret of Happy Children came out of this learning.

I go to the window and can see a dad, huge and red faced, standing beside his SUV, and a small boy five metres away, and backing away further still.

Interestingly the country it sold most copies in was Germany where a generation of young parents absolutely rejected the childrearing methods of their past.

Another child watches on, and I can make out a toddler already strapped into their seat.

Today parents are very different. We show affection and warmth, lots of cuddles and quiet chats, and we let our kids know we love them, and that they are great. When we set boundaries, we are more likely to keep calm.

My heart is suddenly divided - I know what it feels like to wrangle small children, seatbelts, and cars, and be running late.

But I feel for that little child especially if this is a dad who regularly talks to his kids in this way.

I know from years of being a therapist that kids take a clear message from what parents say, especially if its accompanied by anger. There are few things more terrifying than an adult, ten times your size and weight, who has clearly lost control.

We’ve come a long way in parenting, in the last 50 years.

When I began working as a family therapist in the 1970’s, the aim was a very simple one.

The parents who came to our clinic often had kids with serious behaviour problems - at school, or when a bit older involving courts and the police.

Almost always, these families had developed a pattern of escalating negativity.

Hitting, hurting, shouting, calling kids terrible names, might get them to comply out of fear, in the moment, but rarely worked for very long. The thing was, these were not bad people, but parents who loved their kids deeply, and wanted them to have happy lives.

But the only tools they knew were negative ones - the same that had been used on them.

It doesn’t mean we don’t have stressed out moments, but we understand that often kids are also stressed, or needing something from us that we haven’t taken into account.

We check in with them to help them stay on an even keel, and are open when we have to rush things, so they understand.

Pressure of time is still the thing that can undo us - it is probably behind 90% of all behaviour problems.

In my talks and books, I help parents to see that the problem of overbusyness isn’t in us, often, but in the crazy way that life expects us to be always on the go.

We live in a society that claims to be family friendly, but is actually the very opposite. It wants us earning and spending, with no time in between.

This month on my facebook community, I shared some news articles about the terrible effects that the government’s ParentsNext program was putting onto families who were in income stressed, especially single parents.

Some terrible stories were shared in the comments section, backing this up.

I believe we have a right to parent, to do it in our own timetable, and not be forced into working - or not working - by

outside forces. Kids who are mentally healthy, don’t get into crime or drugs, and are good parents themselves, only happen when their childhoods are safe and slow.

Governments, and employers, really need to really be on the side of parents, which they are not at present. All the same, try not to call your children little shits.

They do take it deeply to heart.

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.

World renowned author Steve Biddulph

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Many great Christmas and holiday products for all ages available in the shop and online

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It’s Your Life

Malvern‘s mini-city‘s a place to play Melissa Blumenthal at Interaxcity Children's Museum in Malvern.

By Danielle Galvin

someone going to do something like this in Melbourne.

THERE’S something truly magical about spending time with your child roleplaying, in rough and tumble play or engaging with them in an activity or game they love.

“At the end of the day children have limited opportunity engaging with purposeful play and our lives are just getting busier - especially with the explosion of technology and devices.

But for many time-poor parents, there’s little time left in an average day to schedule in some time to just “play“.

Melbourne mum of three Melissa Blumenthal can relate.

“As a mum I realised the lack of energy and time I had to play with my daughter, whilst working & juggling family and life. I could see around me everybody else is in the same boat.”

After an overseas trip with her eldest child, now 13, she discovered one unique way of fostering those connections between parents and children by simple, old-school play time.During her trip, she visited some incredible children’s museums with her daughter and it quickly dawned on her that there was nothing like it in Melbourne.“I just thought it was wonderful. (It was an) educational learning experience as well as fun, and there was nothing at the time like that in Australia,” she explained.

Fast forward to April 2019, Melissa opened Interaxcity Children’s Museum, a purpose-built mini city where kids can role play for 90 minute sessions with their parents or caregivers.Based in Malvern, it has been a fantastic success.

It’s set in a 200 square metre space, with nine different exhibits where children can imagine and role play to their heart’s content.In Melissa’s words, many of us over-schedule our children’s lives, filling up their weeks with activities and classes, ferrying them here and there.All the while forgetting that the most important part of any child’s development is letting them just stop

“And my daughter was so engaged and I kept thinking, waiting, when is

and be kids.“There’s so many opportunities nowadays (for kids),” she said.

“Before you know it - there’s been no family time or time to just be kids.”

During a recent visit to Interaxcity Children’s Museum, an educator with more than three decades of experience summed it up well, telling Melissa the most important thing we can do for our children is play with them.

“Interaxcity Children’s Museum is a space where children of all abilities are welcome, inspired and can have fun without realising they are learning,” Melissa said.“We invite children to be any community hero they like, depending on what they feel inspired by that day -a chef, a flight attendant, a doctor, a postie (and more) -the choice is theirs.

“Children can explore, discover and engage at their own pace.”

Since Interaxcity Children’s Museum opened, it has been non-stop for Melissa.Many families visit Interaxcity from all over - Echuca, Mornington Peninsula, Ballarat.It’s been a

whirlwind, but the pure joy and happiness Melissa sees on the faces of the children, their parents, grandparents or caregivers each day makes it so worthwhile.

“The children are learning, the emotional connection going on between caregiver and child - it’s priceless to watch and see,” she said.“The only tears we have is when children leave - and they love that time where their grandparent or parent has stopped to spend that 90 minutes playing.

“It’s really special.

“It’s been amazing, it’s a really special place to work.”

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Free Events SPRING / SUMMER 2019 / 2020

December

2019

January

2020

February

2020

Keep up-to-date with events in Stonnington

CHRISTMAS CONCERTS

SUNSET SOUNDS

THE CLASSICS

What’s On Stonnington

Christmas at Central Park

Victoria Gardens

Opera

Sunday 5 January 5pm – 8pm Victoria Gardens, Prahran

Puccini’s Tosca Saturday 1 February 7.30pm Victoria Gardens, Prahran

@whats_on_stonnington

Host Ella Hooper Sunday 8 December 7.30pm – 9.30pm Central Park, Malvern East

Carols at Como Park Host Rob Mills Sunday 15 December 7.30pm –o 9.30pm Como Park, South Yarra

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Central Park Sunday 12 January 5pm – 8pm Central Park, Malvern East

Malvern Gardens Sunday 19 January 5pm – 8pm Malvern Gardens, Malvern

STONNINGTON.VIC.GOV.AU

Broadway ‘S Wonderful with Jack Earle Big Band Saturday 15 February 7.30pm Ardrie Park, Malvern East

Symphony Stonnington Symphony with Archie Roach Saturday 22 February 7.30pm Malvern Gardens, Malvern

SUMMER 2019/2020 7

Forty years at the farm THIS year marks the 40th year of the Collingwood Children's Farm.

The brainchild of a local council person in the late 70's, the farm was set up to provide a green space for the children living in the local council flats to play and learn about where their food comes from: and it has stayed true to this mission ever since.

Proudly not-for-profit, visitors entry fees allow the farm to provide free socially inclusive programs for those people in the community experiencing adversity.

On Sunday 3 November, despite the weather, the farm celebrated 40 years in style.

With MC Costa Georgiadis (the Garden Gnome) keeping the crowds entertained, visitors were treated to a day of music, workshops, talks from food producers, incredible food, community tents, storytelling, cubby making and face-painting - by kids!

The day was not only a celebration and way of saying thank you to the amazing community that has made the CCF what it is today, but it was also a shout out to the local community to get

behind this amazing place and secure it for the next 40 years.

In the face of climate change, water and solar are two major focus areas for the farm.

Similarly, planting trees and providing drought-resistant shade for animals and visitors alike are high on the list of things to do.

The celebrations were a fabulous way to say thank you to the community.

The farm is also seeking financial support to build a new multi-purpose space to be able to offer a more appealing space for children's birthday parties, community workshops in

gardening, harvesting and cooking as well as a space for out-of-hours events.

If you would like to support the farm, become a member, donate or look out for the fundraising campaigns and dig deep! www.farm.org.au

Camberwell has it all this Christmas - even a visit from Santa!

Christmas family fun at Camberwell shopping precinct THE Camberwell shopping precinct's annual Christmas Family Day will be held on Saturday December 14.

Collingwood Children’s Farm Come down to the Farm for a day of fun.

Cuddle a guinea pig, brush the cow, meet the other animals or help out in the gardens! There’s always something different with daily activities, monthly markets and family days. Check out what’s on at: www.farm.org.au

The traders provide free family entertainment as a thank you to the local community for their support throughout the year.Festive street performers including balloonologists, face painters and jugglers, live musical elves and craft, opportunities for photos and free rides with Santa in an antique fire engine are just some of what's planned.

The Camberwell Fresh Food market will have a giant Gingerbread man wandering among the festive food on offer while the Camberwell Place shopping centre also has in-centre activities planned.

Camberwell also has a tradition of their Where's Rudolf? competition.

Stickers on shop windows depict Santas reindeer and if you find

Rudolf, take note of the shop and enter the competition you could win $500 to shop in any of the Camberwell stores and with over 400 retailers its easy to find Christmas gifts or a special treat for yourself. The traders association hold events throughout the year for the community and to support the businesses. They include CamberWell-being in May to highlight the many health and wellness and family medical services, Camberwell on Canvas Community Art Trail in November and The Annual Camberwell Dinner Party in September to celebrate the extensive food offer.

Plus there are regular literary events to meet local and international authors.

All the details can be found at CamberwellShopping.com.au

12429819-FA51-19

CHRISTMAS FAMILY DAY SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14 11AM - 3PM

You’re invited to celebrate Christmas in Camberwell with a great day full of FREE activities for the whole family.

More details at camberwellshopping.com.au

FAMILY DAY CH E

Find Rudolph an d his friends hidden around Camberwell and enter our co mpetition at camberwellsh opping.com.a u to win a $500 sh opping voucher Get your photo taken at the photo wall outside the Camberwell Fresh Food Market Catch a FREE rid e with Santa on his antique fir e truck Get your face pa inted as your favourite Chris tmas character Dance and laugh with a roving musician or ente rtainer

CKLIST

Take home a m arvellous creation made by our balloon modell er Decorate Chris tmas cookies in Camberwell Place shopping centre (formerly The We ll)

Meet the ginger bread man in Camberwell Fres h Food Market Make Christmas crafts with Jann from Smar t Art Activities Take a FREE Sa nta selfie with your pet at Cam berwell Fresh Food Market (11 am – 1pm).

Get a fre

e lamb treat fro m Bugsy's with every photo .

Camberwell Shopping | Burke Road & The Junction 12429827-DJ50-19

8 SUMMER 2019/2020

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

It’s Your Life

Build unshakeable confidence STARTING school in a new class with a different teacher and new peers to contend with can be a daunting time for many children.

verbal assertiveness to deter bullies and several non-violent self-defence techniques to stay safe if physically assaulted.�

It can also mean some children start the school term on shaky ground as they take time to settle in to a new environment.

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

The most successful are those who take on a new year with higher levels of confidence.

The key difference is that students at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu are taught vocal and physical skills in context of the variety of situations bullying can occur in that they see within their schools.

That’s where Gracie Jiu Jitsu Burwood teaches children the skills to build up their confidence and self-esteem, ready to start a new year of schooling through the Bullyproof program.

“The bottom line is: we will prepare your child to defend themselves against bullies without turning them into one and build their confidence and resilience to an unshakable level.

Owner Robbie Singh has been running the Bullyproof program for the last six years and says the children are able to walk away knowing how to interpret the behaviours and intentions of those around them and the confidence they build transfers to all areas of their life.

Starting the school year with confidence at Gracie Jiu Jitsu Burwood.

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

“Our goal is to instil in your child unshakeable confidence so they can overcome bullies without violence and

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

tackle any of life’s challenges that come their way,� Robbie said. “We will teach your child to use

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Burwood is located at Unit 2, 5-13 Sinnott Street, Burwood.

Contact 0430 154 012.

Keeping the world dancing at Capezio THE story behind the Capezio brand, the makers of ballet shoes, dancewear and activewear, began in 1887.

Capezio for high quality, beautifully designed and engineered ballet shoes, tap, jazz shoes and more.

Today, Capezio is synonymous around the world as the brand that "keeps the world dancing".

Capezio stock dancewear, including tights, leotards, unitards, skirts and tutus, dresses, costumes, and everything a new dancer needs to start their dancing journey and continue for years to come.

It all started when Salvatore Capezio, an Italian cobbler, opened a shoe repair shop near New York's old Metropolitan Opera House.

He crafted pointe shoes, and the shop eventually became the meeting place for dancers and ballerinas alike to discuss their shoe needs and he became a household name.

Today, Capezio shoes, dance and activewear is available online at www. capezioaustralia.com, through their branded stores and through stockists around Australia.

Dancers, both new and old, trust

There's something to suit every style of dancer and an extensive range of kids wear.

Also available are some special collections for children, such as Sweet Kisses, Team Basics and Kinetic Explosion and have mums covered with a fantastic active wear range.

To find out more and for stockists, visit www.capezioaustralia.com or visit their Flagship store at Elsternwick, 296 Glen Huntly Road.

Capezio's flagship store in Elsternwick.

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SUMMER 2019/2020 9

It’s Your Life

Dr Margie Danchin wants to educate women about maternal vaccinations.

Should you enforce

’No Vax, No visit?’ midwives aren't always well-versed at being able to answer questions from parents about the risks of preventable diseases, disease transmission and vaccine refusal.

By Danielle Galvin THERE'S a trend among expectant parents taking to social media to tell their family and friends to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations or stay away from their newborn baby in those first few precious weeks of life.

"I think we have a really big job as paediatricians and vaccine experts in helping OBs and GPs, midwives communicate the facts clearly and consistently, it is something we are really struggling with," she said.

It's called the "No Vax, No Visit" campaign.

She said it's important for health care providers to be able to communicate about the facts.

For many parents, it can be a minefield telling family members and close friends to steer clear if they haven't had their whooping cough booster or recent flu jab.

The trend is cause for concern for Royal Children's Hospital paediatrician Dr Margie Danchin, who specialises in immunisation.

She believes it's time to give the control back to mums-to-be, and get the facts straight.

"It's quite concerning really - I think it's creating hysteria where hysteria doesn't need to be," she said.

"The first thing we want to do is reassure new mums that we are listening and we are not judging them (but) No Vax No Visit is not something I support.

"We know that the best thing a pregnant woman can do to protect her infant is maternal immunisation."

But in an age of vaccine hesitation, of horror flu seasons, and confronting messaging about the dangers of the likes of preventable diseases such as measles, how do new parents know what to do?

Dr Danchin says the pertussis vaccine is 91 per cent effective in the first 3-6 months of life against the baby getting whooping cough. Likewise, for pregnant

10 SUMMER 2019/2020

In her view, it's misguided to try and avoid going out in public with your newborn before the first round of vaccinations at 6 weeks. women who have the flu shot, it's 90 per cent effective in protecting those babies from needing to be admitted to hospital even if they do catch it.

"So you're talking about very effective vaccines where the mother has control over protecting her infant, whereas you don't have control over the people around you," she said.

"And we also know from all the cocooning data - cocooning is the grandparents, dads, and all the visitors getting vaccinated, we know that this is not nearly as effective as maternal vaccinations.

"What I've been saying is that we need to help mums understand how effective maternal vaccination is and that it's safe and effective.

"But also if they are concerned about friends or family members visiting their newborn, if they don't have any respiratory symptoms so if they have no cough or cold or runny nose, the chance of them transmitting something to the infant has got to be close to zero."

Dr Danchin believes the 'No Vax, No Visit' policy can create unnecessary conflict and stress.

She's fielding more and more questions from concerned parents to be.

"It's a really common question especially as we know there are more parents with concerns about vaccinations we don't really have data to suggest vaccine refusal is on the rise, but we know in certain regions it's much higher and the problem is in your area you don't know how high vaccine hesitancy is," she said.

"But the reality is the minute you leave hospital you're going to go to the cafe, or library or the supermarket - how are you going to control all those people?

"I think the message is giving the control back to the parents - particularly the mother - so that they can control direct protection to their infant."

Part of the problem is the mixed messages many receive about maternal vaccination. Obestricians, GPs and

"There's a risk there for post-natal depression and isolation, a lack of engagement, self worth plummeting because they are isolated," she said.

Dr Danchin and others in her field have developed a new website and resources to be launched in 2020 to give health care providers and pregnant women the key facts about maternal immunisation.

She's hoping it will clear up some of the misinformation around vaccines and newborns, particularly for parents who find themselves confused and unsure of what to do.

She said it was advisable that anyone with a cold or cough, or any other virus, should steer clear of a newborn baby.

"The problem is you don't have someone (being) the voice of reason," she sad.

"I want to reassure pregnant women they can control this - they don't need to choose a No Vax, No Visit punitive policy," she said.

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

It’s Your Life

Music bringing generations together Emmeline gives a book to a resident at Baptcare Karana Community in Kew.

By Danielle Galvin MUSIC is universal regardless of age and it has a way of bringing people together.

That’s why educational services provider Hey dee ho has had such success with Intergenerational Music sessions, with more than 65 run across the country in aged care facilities and nursing homes.

This year, ABC TV struck gold with the show Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds.The frank and funny docu-series showed a bunch of pre-schoolers visiting a nursing home, with some beautifully heart-warming moments.

The show did something else, too.At Hey dee ho, they’ve never been busier running sessions across Melbourne.

Facilitator Sonja Olsen runs sessions in Camberwell, Kew, Blackburn and Forest Hill, and many others.“We’ve had crowds turn up since that show,” she said.

“It’s been amazing, we’ve had to start a ticketing system because of that show now we are having homes contacting us.”

The sessions, run monthly or fortnightly, provide a fun, free activity for parents and young kids as well as bridging the generational gap between the young and old.

She says there’s nothing better than seeing everyone’s faces light up.

Pictures: Rob Carew

“It’s very interactive, there’s lots of encouragement of the kids,” she said.

“A big part of it is so encourage the interaction between the kids and the elderly.

“The (carers) are telling us that some of the residents are non-verbal, some are very reliant on their walkers and suddenly they are up singing and dancing.

“They are seeing a huge benefit to it, singing and dancing and coming to life.”

She said it’s beneficial for children, especially those who haven’t had much interaction with the elderly.

“They connect - and the residents are

absolutely in awe of these kids,” she said.

“The kids love being the centre of attention and once they realise these people are looking at them, they start becoming little show-offs, and they are getting such good reaction, all the eyes are in them.

“I’ve had some great feedback - one of the mums was saying her daughter was asking when are we going to go and see those dancing ladies again.”

Engagement and interaction is gently encouraged, but there’s no pressure during the music sessions.

There are children who are tentative at first, but start to relax when the music starts, Sonja says.

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www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

SUMMER 2019/2020 11

It’s Your Life

These friends were among the first to try The Break, one of the new attractions at Gumbuya World.

Gumbuya expansion makes a splash GUMBUYA World, at Tynong, has levelled up in the awesome stakes and is definitely one for your summer bucket list.

The new $10 million water park upgrade of Oasis Springs boasts the state’s most impressive heated family wave pool.

Gumbuya is not just one world, but four.

The massive pool called 'The Break', has been dubbed the ‘beach in the South East’, giving families endless water fun over summer.

There’s Oz Adventure, with rides that don’t require you to get wet; Outback Explorers for smaller ride-enthusiasts and Wildlife Trail, where you can get up close to over 50 species of Aussie animals.

There is also a stand-alone kids' area, ensuring even the little ones can enjoy the new wave pool.

The fourth 'world' is the section everyone is going crazy over, called Oasis Springs except now doubled in size.

Six new water slides are also included in the expansion including two gigantic twister slides and four lanerally race rides.

On Melbourne Cup weekend, phase 2 of 3 expansions opened to the public.

These slides add to the already epic collection of water slides.

You and your family can enjoy the exciting Typhoon Island, a 300 metre Lazy River, heated rock pools and Surf’s Up for surfing sessions.

Oasis Springs also has 15 new cabanas, plenty of sun lounges, day beds and a dedicated group area and new outdoor showers.

When you get hungry you can find delicious, quality options at Wal’s Fish and Chip shop and Gumbuya’s famous foot long dingo dog.

Adults can even treat themselves with a cocktail at Brett’s Beach Club, while the kids enjoy the rides and soak up the summer fun.

The redevelopment of Gumbuya World

will continue over the next three years.

The theme park will offer 50 new attractions as well as a range of onsite accommodation, new cafes, shops, a chocolate factory and a microbrewery.

Plans also include Indigenous, dinosaur and wool shed precincts for educational programs. By 2022, it is anticipated that Gumbuya World will attract a million visitors each year from around Australia and the rest of the world - ensuring tourism remains strong in Victoria and the Gippsland region.

The park is located on the Princes Highway in Tynong, less than 15 minutes from Pakenham and 50 minutes from Melbourne.

ZOOZARO PRAM POUCH

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for busy parents WHEN Emily Jones set out to find the perfect bag for her pram after she welcomed her daughter Hannah, she couldn't find exactly what she was looking for.

She wanted durability, functionality and she wanted it to be secured to the pram to make getting out the door with kids that much easier.

Like many new mums, she missed the ease at which she'd been able to leave the house before kids.

"I realised there's really no room in the pram to do a shop once you've got the nappies and everything in there," she said.

Emily's search didn't give her much, so she went about designing something instead.

Working with an industrial designer, she designed what's today known as the Zoozaro Pram Pouch.

It took 18 months to design, test and perfect it.

"I took it with me all around swimming lessons, to the park - all sorts

of places, and I thought this is it."

Emily even launched the product on the day she gave birth to her son, Sam. The pram pouch is made with marine grade mesh, it folds up with the pram, it's easily detachable - perfect for any parent on the go.

"Every time I sell one - I feel so good because they don't know how good it's going to be," Emily said.

"When I became a mum, I realised I couldn't just go out the door and leave with ease and that's the feeling I wanted to replicate.

"People have said I don't know how I managed before I had it.

"It's just designed to help people that's what I wanted to do."

Win a Zoozaro Pram Pouch - never suffer pram topple again with this unique bag! To find out more, visit starcommunity.com.au/competitions for entry details and terms and conditions. www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

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www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

SUMMER 2019/2020 13

It’s Your Life A gift

well worth giving

By Danielle Galvin

that parents aren't comfortable asking for money for a gift for their child.

FORMER lawyer turned entrepreneur Marta Barbayannis is hoping to drive a cultural change when it comes to kids' presents.

But most of us are more than happy to contribute money if we know it's going towards a big, meaningful present for a child, such as a bike or another longed-for toy.

"When I was on the verge of going back to work, I had this idea for GiftWell.

"I'd always wanted my own business, and I thought, there's no time like the present.

"Now is probably a good time to take the plunge and finally make that happen."

The business idea and app, which Marta calls her "third baby" came from her own experience with birthday parties when her children hit kinder age.After weekends filled with birthday parties, presents and plenty of plastic toys, Marta wanted a change.

In her market research, she has found

"People like to be a part of something bigger," she said.

"It doesn't matter what you earn, where you live, what your demographic is, these days everything is so accessible and we don't hold back; we just buy, buy, buy.

"So come birthday time and Christmas time, we're a bit stuck."

She hopes with the app that kids may have access to something that was previously out of reach, through the rather unique gift solution.Starting a business after children has been a learning experience for Marta.

"It's been exciting, I love the thrill of it, (but) it's also been quite daunting," she explained.

"This is me pursuing an idea that I really believe in, and I guess fulfilling this desire in me that I've always wanted to create something that could genuinely benefit others, that's what's kept me going.'

VISIT

Marta Barbayannis developed an app called GiftWell.

She appreciates the flexibility in her new venture, but admits there's definitely nights, particularly in these early days, where she's up all hours working hard.But she said it's the nature of the beast when it comes to a startup."I have been calling it my third baby - it's been quite an investment in many ways," she said."It's sort of taken on a little life of its own."

As for her kids, she's happy to show them the value in money, in toys, their belongings as well as the value in her

Picture: Rob Carew

work."I think it's good for them to see mum has launched something, mum has started something.

"I talk about GiftWell with them all the time, they come to expos and that sort of thing."

Marta hopes more Australian parents adopt the "less is more approach" when it comes to toys.She said having fewer toys helps kids develop a better attention span and be more focused.

"I really believe in it and want people to learn more about it," she said.

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The Camberwell mum of two young boys has developed an app, called GiftWell, which enables family and friends to contribute to a "big present" for a child's birthday via the app."In my previous life I was a lawyer but I took quite a bit of time off when I had the kids, to spend time with them at home," Marta explained.

SANTA

Santa is now in residence daily until Christmas Eve.

14 SUMMER 2019/2020

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

It’s Your Life

Sara is a Norweigan mum of two who posted this picture which went viral.

Do

Picture: @saraaemiliee, Instagram

Dr Kelly-Ann Allen says it's important to acknowledge the many benefits of digital technology.

parents need screen rules?

By Danielle Galvin WHEN Norwegian "mum influencer" Sara Emilie Tandberg shared an image on her Instagram account to her 250,000 followers around the globe engrossed in her phone next to her young son, she struck a painful chord.

The mum of two captioned the powerful image "Are you present or are you a ghost in your own life? Wherever you go, you see it. How addicted everyone is, how much time the phone takes from us."

In the digital age, adults, teens and children alike are increasingly addicted to tablets and phones and screens.

Most toddlers know how to open up an app on their parents phones, or flick through pictures.

In her post, Tandberg admits her New Year's resolution was to use her phone less.

"It's not just me. Big family dinners, friends hanging out. Parents at the playground," she wrote.

"I see it everyday. We are not present anymore."

It is a sad indictment on 21st century life when you witness a curious child attempting to engage their parent, wrapped up in their phone inadvertently ignoring their child.

Educational and developmental psychologist Kelly-Ann Allen explains most of us have no idea how many hours we spend glued to our devices.

playing on a tablet.

worthy of their parents' time.

But when it comes to our own screen addictions - do parents need guidelines too?

"Children don't have a concept of the importance of paying a bill, replying to an email, or texting another mum back.

They just see that their needs are coming second to their parents' phone," she said.

"Let's answer this question by asking another question. How much quality time do you spend with your family a day? Or, how much time to you spend outside or exercising or enjoying a hobby?

"Do you find that some things are slipping as a result of your screen time?

If the answer is no, then perhaps you don't need any guidelines for your personal screen time," Dr Allen said.

"However, if you're not confident in your answers to these questions, then it might be a good idea to manage your screen time better so you can find a healthy balance in your life."

But it's equally important not to view screens as the devil - there are benefits.

"On that point, Jocelyn Brewer, cyberpsychologist, provides the perspective that digital technology should be viewed no differently from eating chocolate," Dr Allen explains.

"Consuming too much can be unhealthy. Jocelyn uses a digital nutrition analogy to discuss and explore how digital technologies can be used effectively and productively.

"Platforms that rely on digital technology should not be demonised simply because they use a screen.

"There is much to benefit from technology and we shouldn't ignore that fact."

"Studies have shown that we drastically underestimate how much time we spend on our own devices," she said.

The difficulty for parents the world over is the fact that many are expected to be reachable all the time.

"On average, parents reportedly spend anywhere from 9-11 hours of screen time a day, and at least 80% of that time is outside of work hours."

Most parents would have said to their child at one point "hang on, I'm responding to this text/email".

Parents are bombarded with stories in the media about how much time their child spends watching TV or

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

But Dr Allen said children may hear when their parents choose to "finish" something on their phone or laptop that their seemingly important need is less

"If a parent is receiving a constant stream of interruptions it may be wise to schedule blocks of time for responding to emails or texts and paying bills, et cetera. then the child may be able to differentiate between "work" time and "play" time.

"Having said that, parents should use their personal discretion over what suits their own individual needs and contexts.

There are a lot of factors to consider.

"One thing that parents can think about is the role they play in being a role model for digital etiquette and social engagement, with others.

"And for this reason, it's never a bad idea for parents to regulate their screen time."

Tips from an expert - how to regulate your own screen time OF course, not all screen time is bad.

Like anything else, a healthy dose of screen time in moderation can prove to be quite beneficial.

For instance, children use iPads and tablets regularly during their school time for key learning opportunities. Parents can nurture that learning at home as an extension of their school time.

Not to mention, there are excellent interactive learning television programs that have shown to be beneficial especially when parents are viewing with their children and discussing what they are watching.

In terms of parents and their own

More so, the research is beginning to show some of the impacts, despite the array of benefits digital technology brings.

"Research tells us that some children feel they are competing with smartphones for their parents' attention, because even if a parent is sharing a moment with their children, all it takes is the sound of a phone notification to interrupt their quality time," she said.

"This is especially true for parents who are juggling multiple roles and always feel like they must be "on" and "available" at any given moment.

"In these cases, children tend to take the back seat to the other, more immediate demands."

At the end of Sanderberg's post which went viral around the world was a rather apt warning: "Don't let it replace your friends and family."

screen time use, it can be useful for parents to have conversations with their children about what they are doing - read message out loud or try to involve their children in the response (if age appropriate).

Parents can use their phone for positive moments of connectionreading an ebook, reminiscing over old photos.

But most importantly parents need to keep reaslistic expectations around phone use.

It's okay to engage in digital technology including their mobile phones - in fact, by doing so it may actually model good habits and behaviours for their children who will grow up in a world immersed in such technologies.

- Dr Kelly-Ann Allen

SUMMER 2019/2020 15

It’s Your Life

Jono finds his true loves

By Rachel Hickingbotham THREE years ago, life was very different for Cranbourne North local, Jono Pitman. He thought he was ready to settle down, fall in love and get married. So much so that he applied to go on the reality show, Married at First Sight. After experiencing the complexities of being ‘paired up with’ a partner that was supposedly best suited to him, Jono realised that this was not the way to love for him.

Fast forward to the present, when Jono’s name in the reality TV circles has all but disappeared and he is feeling on top of the world.

“Everyone has sort of forgotten the ‘entertaining’ series that was on for three weeks”, Jono said.

He is pleased that that time of his life is well and truly over.

“My series was quite short, but the person I was paired with continued to stay relevant. And when that happens, you get dragged into it, whether you want to or not”.

After looking for love in the wrong place, Jono was blessed to reconnect with an old friend, Rebecca Pattison.

She hadn’t watched the series, but once they started dating, Rebecca says “I looked at a couple of episodes to see what is was all about”.

Jono met Rebecca nine years earlier and he admits that it didn’t go as well as he hoped.

“I fancied her, and I got her contact details, but she did not want a bar of me in the slightest!”, he said laughing.

about it. I can’t describe it."

And yet, he explains it perfectly.

Clearly, he is in awe of the mother of his child.

Jono is refreshingly honest about how he feels about Rebecca.

It was definitely not ‘love at first sight’.

However, when they crossed paths again, it was a different story. Perhaps more like ‘love at second sight’.

“I have always had the upmost respect for her, and a ridiculous amount of love. But after the birth, it just grew, because she was just unbelievable."

For the past 5 months, Jono has been overflowing with love. In July this year, Jono and his partner, Rebecca welcomed the birth of their gorgeous son, Max Thomas Pitman at St John of God Hospital in Berwick.

When asked how these past months have been, Jono is keeping it real. \

Jono said the team at St John of God were “ fantastic, just amazing."

Rebecca agreed that “all of the midwives were amazing”.

“Everyone was extremely positive and extremely caring. We took all of their advice on because we had no idea what we were doing”, laughed Jono.

Although the birth went well, Jono admits that he personally found it “horrific”.

With honest and careful words, he clarifies what he means.

“I don’t mean that in a way that males speak about it, like a joke. More in terms of standing there for four hours watching the love of my life in so much pain and not be able to do anything

“It has been really hard. We knew it was going to be challenging. We thought that ‘We’ve got this’, but it was a lot harder than we thought it was going to be. We’ve adapted now and it’s fantastic."

The hardest thing of all?

“It would be sleep”, agreed Jono and Rebecca. Like many parents, the couple are sleep deprived, but are working together as a supportive team.

Jono Pitman had his first child with love of his life, Rebecca Pattison.

“But in saying that, if that’s the hardest thing, we’ve got it pretty good”, he said, laughing.

“To be honest, Rebecca and I have a lot more love to give, so I think we will have more children”.

“When you have a child, it’s like a rollercoaster; one second you’re up the top and life’s great and the next second you’re down the bottom. When we are up the top we talk about extending the family and when we are at the bottom, we think ‘sorry Max, you’re going to be an only child!’

With this much love in the air, it is natural to wonder if marriage is in the air too.

“We have a beautiful bundle of joy who is taking up all of our time, all of our money and all of our love”, said Jono. “But I don’t want to be with anyone else in my life”.

Gingerbread Cubbies

Gingerbread cubbies

Makers of beautiful cubby houses

in the happy business GINGERBREAD Cottage Cubbies is in the business of making people happy.

Jessie Petterd has taken on the reigns of the business in Highett with her husband Ricky.

Her parents started the business back in the 1990s, after building a cubby for her and her sister when they couldn't find the perfect fit.

"We love being in the 'happy business' - that's what my dad always said to me about Gingerbread Cubbies," she said.

"I'm 28 now and hubby Ricky and I are ready to continue my dad's enthusiasm for this business."

Gingerbread Cottage Cubbies operates out of a workshop in Highett, where Jessie meets with clients to bring to life their vision.

"We prefer doing business this way as it gives us the chance to meet our clients by appointment and tailor products with the accessories and colours they choose," she explained.

"More like a little Cottage than just a cubby" Ph: 1300 798 040

www.gingerbreadcubbies.com.au

Their focus has always been three core elements; to create products that have a whimsical, storybook character, they must be well-built and finished, and they need to be readily assembled and disassembled when needed.

All of products come painted.

Delivering and installing the cottages is always a highlight, with

E: gingerbreadcottageco@gmail.com

Ricky i k and d Jesse ffrom Gi Gingerbread b dC Cubbies bbi iin Highett.

Picture: Rob Carew

families often so excited to watch their new cubby get set up.

"At a recent exhibition, it was a joy to see people's faces light up when they spotted our display.

"Many adults recalled happy childhood memories playing in their own cubbies. People left with a smile and thanked us.

"I guess that's why we love being in this 'happy business'."

For more information, visit www. gingerbreadcubbies.com or call 1300 798 040.

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16 SUMMER 2019/2020

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Sugary snacks need ’better labelling’

It’s Your Life

Tips for dealing with fussy eaters EVER feel like your life revolves around cooking and cleaning up after your kids, especially when it comes to dinner?

You're not alone! In fact, when 1000 Aussie parents were asked about their dinner routine one thing was clear: we all have at least one fussy eater sitting around the dinner table.

To set the record straight, it's completely normal for kids to reject food they haven't tried before, so don't worry it's not about your cooking skills!

In saying that, exposing kids to different foods and diversifying their tastes at a young age sets them up for healthier eating for the rest of their life, according to Hannah, HelloFresh's

in-house Dietitian.

Hannah shared some great insights and tips for managing fussy eaters...

1. It can take up to 15 exposures for kids to try something new so don't give up yet. Keep serving it up on their plate, but just be prepared for it to go untouched until they're familiar enough with it to give it a go!

2. Serving food in a variety of ways can be helpful. If your child doesn't like greens then try broccoli finely chopped in a tomato pasta sauce, boil potatoes for a potato-broccoli mash or serve broccoli steamed or stir-fried as 'trees' in a vegetable side dish.

3. As adults, we become more

desensitised to food textures, but this is not the case with younger children. Try to pinpoint the particular texture your child doesn't like and use foods your child likes to experiment with different textures. For example, potatoes can be crushed, mashed or baked; beans can be eaten raw, boiled or pan-fried for different textures.

4. A 'no thanks' to sour foods is a fairly common aversion, but offering it in small amounts where it's mostly unnoticeable will help kids get more accustomed to the flavour. You can get kids to try sour foods like Greek style yoghurt, which is really good for them, by adding freshly chopped or pureed fruits.

THERE’S a new renewed push for better labelling of toddler products with added sugar, with health experts saying parents are being duped into buying what they believe are healthy snacks.

The Obesity Policy Coalition examined 57 toddler snacks for sale at major supermarkets, which are marketed as healthy.

The survey found many were high in sugar and processed ingredients but were confusing to parents given the lack of clear labelling.

Executive Manager of the Obesity Policy Coalition Jane Martin said sneaky marketing tactics were used to entice busy parents.

“You wouldn’t give your toddler lolly snakes, and yet many parents are being tricked into buying sugar-laden snacks dressed up as healthy. Given the amount of sugar, it’s virtually the same thing,“ she said.

“Parents deserve to know what’s really in the products they’re feeding their kids.

“With 40 different names for sugar, even the ingredients list can’t always be relied upon to help parents make an informed choice.”

The analysis found: ■ Nearly half of the products surveyed contained over 25% sugar, with up to six different sweet ingredients contributing to the total sugar content.

■ Nearly half (47%) had an image of whole fruit on the pack.

■ In the sweet cereal finger food category - 38 different types of fruit ingredients were used.

Melbourne’s favourite home cooked meals Pre-portioned, fresh ingredients delivered to your doorstep. oorstep.

A variety of easy-to-follow recipes to choose from each week.

Family friendly plans for wholesome meals the kids will love!

12434289-FA51-19

HelloFresh.com.au

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

SUMMER 2019/2020 17

It’s Your Life

Nat’s new path into health

By Danielle Galvin

on the train and my social media feed was full of that kind of information."

WHEN Natalie McCann returned to part-time work after having her two boys, she discovered she had a calling for a change in career.

It's still a juggle, but she works from home these days and loves the flexibility.

She'd worked in the corporate world as a project manager for over a decade but she felt a change of heart.

"I had a break when I had the children, and then I went back parttime," she said.

"And while I was there I had probably the same experience as a lot of other mothers - I felt if I'm really going to be away from my kids, I want to do something a bit more interesting and something I am a bit more interested in.

"I felt like I was just showing up, my heart wasn't in it."

It dawned on the mum of two young boys, now aged 6 and 8 ,that it was the time to build a career elsewhere and follow her passion.

"I decided to study health and nutrition coaching which was always my interest," she explained.

"I was always reading nutrition books

Gone are the days of the 6.30am train ride to the city.

Like most parents, she was feeling torn about the return to work, on the one hand ready but also feeling a sense of "mum guilt".

But she soon discovered she had another calling and started studying a 12-month course in health and nutrition coaching.

These days she's proudly the CEO, Head Coach and Wellness Expert at Seedling Health where she helps people navigate different pathways to health.

"I am finding this work really fulfilling, it's great to be helping people in an area I'm really interested in," she said.

"When I first started, I was so excited (to work from home) I was so happy to be home all the time.

"Now, if people want to meet me out I kind of jump at the chance!

Mum N M Natalie li with i h Jake J k and d IIssac.

"I do love being home and it being flexible, I'm lucky I can kind of close the doors to the rest of the house.

"Now I have to find the balance of getting out. Otherwise you do spend a lot of time by yourself."

But Natalie's relishing in the time at home, that she can be there for her kids when the school bell rings, to ferry them to basketball games or footy training and reading sessions at school.

As for starting again, Natalie said it was taking the risk that was the most daunting.

"That was the hard thing - taking the leap," she explained.

"I thought how am I going to do this?

This is something I've done for 12 years. I don't know how to do anything else.

"For me it was just working out what was my hobby. My hobby and interest was reading nutrition books and reading articles on that all the time.

"My tip for everyone else would be what do you spend your time doing - what's on your social feed? That's how you find what an alternative could be."

Five strategies to get the kids involved in running the household

By Julie Cliff

For toddlers, the jobs are as simple as picking up their toys and books. Chores suitable for preschoolers include setting the table for meals and helping with hanging out the washing. Jobs suggested for school-aged children include feeding pets, watering plants, putting away the dishes and taking out the rubbish.

HAVE you got too much to do and not enough time? Is it leaving you exhausted?

My clients tell me they're always picking up after their kids, which leaves them feeling very frustrated.

To reduce the frustration, get the family on board to ensure they're giving you the help you need.

JOBS FIRST, PLAY LATER Ensure all jobs for the day are ticked off before any electronic devices are turned on. It may take some effort to implement this (and there will probably be tears and tantrums), but you will get there if you stick at it.

Here are five strategies to get the kids helping out in the household: IT'S A TEAM EFFORT Firstly, explain to your family the importance of getting jobs done each week and that it's a joint effort - not the responsibility of one person - to run the household. It seems quicker to pick things up yourself, but in the long run it is worth spending time to teach them to do it themselves.

NEXT STEPS? As kids learn these lifelong skills they will receive a boost of self-esteem as they can feel they are getting better at the particular task and contributing to the household. You get the help that you need and it results in less stress.

NOW RECRUITING Make each family member a part of the family budget. Draw up a simple employment contract, outline a job description and pay them for tasks they are hired to do.

FIFTEEN MINUTES OF POWER Draw up a list of what you really need to get done each week. Have family members choose a task to work on for '15 minutes of power' after dinner. Put the timer on for 15 minutes, play some 18 SUMMER 2019/2020

Julie shares her top tips to get kids helping out.

music and get as much done as you can before the timer goes off.

This may be getting the kids to fold their laundry and put it away in their drawers. Get someone to grab the vacuum cleaner or dust the credenza.

Just 15 minutes of this sort of help each night saves you a lot of time by the end of the week.

CHOOSE AGE APPROPRIATE JOBS Many of us can start getting the kids involved in the household chores much earlier.

The Raising Children Network has a great age-appropriate jobs list on its website (https://raisingchildren.net.au/ toddlers/family-life/chores/chores-forchildren)

Try one of the five suggestions this week and soon the kids will be doing the job without being asked!

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 www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Health

New clinic for hip dysplasia WHEN it comes to loving the job you do, Cabrini paediatric orthopaedic surgeon Gary Nattrass would give most a run for their money.

After 24 years in the industry he still loves coming to work, for him it's the families that make it so special.

"I do love it, I love working with children," Mr Nattrass said.

"It's the whole journey, you meet families and you follow their children for 10, 15 - sometimes 20 years. We get involved with the families and you see what they're going through. You know their problems and hopefully, you can make it easier for them."

Mr Nattrass said Cabrini's new Hip Dysplasia Clinic offered a unique 'one-stop', multidisciplinary approach to assessing and managing hip dysplasia in babies.

Surgeons, physiotherapists, orthotists and radiographers are all on-site at the clinic, making it a simple process for families.

Mr Nattrass said until now, each practitioner had operated separately, which meant families were forced to drive across town for ultrasounds and brace fittings and adjustments.

Babies can now be assessed clinically, imaged by ultrasound and bracing treatment (if required) can start all in the initial appointment.

Mr Nattrass, a highly experienced paediatric orthopaedic surgeon, is supported by a team of clinicians who specialise in hip dysplasia and all have spent years working in paediatrics.

"It's just a much quicker process. If families aren't happy with ultrasound images that have been taken elsewhere, we can liaise with our technician on the spot and get the exact

views we are after. Our radiographers are extremely experienced and we get fantastic images," Mr Nattrass said.

the scoliosis and paediatric spinal service and the travel immunisation and vaccination service.

At Cabrini, they offer a range of paediatric surgical, medical and clinical services.

The Cabrini Hip Dysplasia Clinic is located in the Mother and Baby Centre at Cabrini Malvern.

The highly experienced specialists provide friendly and family-centred care to infants, children and adolescents across a range of specialties, including

For more information and appointments call (03) 9322 3360 or go to https://www.cabrini.com.au/ paediatrics

At Cabrini, we are passionate about providing you with the support, care and compassion you need to bring your baby safely into the world.

Our highly-skilled midwives, leading obstetricians and dedicated medical staff will guide you through the birthing process and assist with the transition into parenthood.

The Cabrini Gandel Wing offers the best in healthcare, with premium private rooms that have everything you could need – including WiFi to share those precious first photos with loved ones. The rooms are equipped with double beds, so partners can stay overnight, and have ensuite bathrooms with purpose-designed baby baths.

With more than 60 years’ experience and the birthing of more than 1800 babies every year, we understand the joy of welcoming a new baby into the family and look forward to sharing that special time with you.

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SUMMER 2019/2020 19

Health Keeping your SUMMER can be challenging if you're pregnant or have a newborn, so here's a summer survival guide with expert tips on keeping yourself and your baby cool and safe in the heat.

Epworth Freemasons midwife Stacey Goad says it often comes down to common sense.

baby cool this summer

lukewarm, wet face washer or bath to ease the heat.

"Dress your in baby loose-fitting, natural fibres. You'll find a singlet, nappy and a light wrap are best for sleep time.

"Whether you're pregnant, or caring for a newborn, it's really important you plan your day. If you can, stay indoors with air conditioning and if you have to go out, try and do it early before the heat of the day," Stacey said.

"Babies and children should never be left by themselves in a car. Kidsafe Victoria tests found a parked car can be up to 30 degrees hotter inside, even on a mild day. Make sure you always have your keys on you, so they don't get accidentally locked in.

"Rest where you can, put your feet up to ease swollen ankles and be kind to yourself. It's important to drink plenty of water and ensure your baby stays hydrated with frequent feeds.

"Avoid carriers or slings as they get hot and don't cover prams or capsules with blankets or wraps, because it can restrict air flow and make it too hot inside.'

"Young babies need some extra care as they can't regulate their own body temperatures. You could also use a

"If you're concerned for your health, or that of your baby, please speak with a healthcare professional," Stacey said.

Some useful tips for pregnant women and mums with young babies over summer.

The benefits of non-surgical varicose vein treatments vein. Then, the laser is activated and drawn through the vein. It's not recommended for all patients, so it's a good idea to discuss EVLT with one of the medical professionals before embarking on treatment.

MANY varicose vein sufferers endured painful surgeries in the past to get rid of varicose veins, despite the fact it can be an unpleasant process.

Prior to surgical options being available in more recent times, people would put up with bulging, unsightly and painful varicose veins.

Ambulatory phlebectomy - is a treatment that involves some light incisions on the skin, but which usually doesn't even require stitches

In varicose vein surgery, veins are tied off through a cut made in the groin then superficial veins are pulled out of the skin.

Vein glue - glue is injected into the problem vein under the guidance of an ultrasound. The vein is sealed, heals, and the glue is absorbed into the body.

That's why so many people now turn to non-surgical treatments for varicose veins.

Cyanoacrylate Occlusion (Vein glue) - glue is injected into the problem vein under the guidance of an ultrasound.

The vein is sealed, heals, and the glue is absorbed into the body.

Below are some of the options for varicose vein sufferers, as outlined by Dr Gurjit Dhillon from Vein Care, who specialises in venous disease.

Vein Care offers non-surgical treatment for varicose veins, spider veins, reticular veins, venous leg ulcers, large and unsightly veins as well as facial veins.

Vein Care

only 30 minutes, and results are often visible within a few weeks.

Endovenous Laser Treatment involves

the use of local anaesthetic. After it has been applied, an ultrasound is used to guide a laser fibre into the abnormal

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

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Sclerotherapy is a treatment for small reticular and spider veins. It's a brief and relatively simple procedure that requires no anaesthetic, in which a detergent is injected from a microneedle into the vein. Treatment time is

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

Specialising in Veins

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DENTAL Make going to the dentist

a healthy habit AT Tower Dental, the dentists love treating children, from babies to teenagers.

They believe that an excellent standard in children's dentistry involves spending time with your children to get them used to a dental environment and educate them on the importance of oral hygiene.

They understand that visiting the dentist can be an anxious time for children so we have created an environment that makes the experience comfortable and pleasant.

Getting your child used to the dental environment is very important.

going to the hairdresser - initially visits to both may seem a little out of their comfort zone but, once the habit has been established, practicing good oral habits will become second nature to your children.

The dentists are available on Saturdays, particularly for children's dentistry, so there is no need for your children to miss school for their appointment!

They ensure that children's dentistry is a relaxing experience for both the child and the parents.

Tower Dental is located on the corner of Burke and Whitehorse Roads, Balwyn, with plenty of off-street parking.

Telephone 9817 7144 and make an appointment for your child to see one of our friendly dentists.

It's important to make going to the dentist as natural and stress free as

Start forming your child's next healthy habit.

Anglehouse Orthodontics creating

‘beautiful, happy smiles‘ ANGLEHOUSE Orthodontics is a family friendly orthodontic practice that offers comprehensive specialist care in a relaxed and caring atmosphere.

Dr Gopal Kataria, specialist orthodontist at Anglehouse orthodontics, is committed to providing precise, tailor made treatment to each patient using appliances such as traditional braces, growth modification treatments and clear removable aligners such as Invisalign.

In line with their practice's aim of "creating beautiful, happy smiles", Dr Kataria works in close association with an in-house periodontist (gum specialist) to ensure gum health of each of his patients.

He says they work as a team to ensure the best results for patients.

"For people with obvious signs of gum issues such as bleeding gums or bad

Explaining further, he revealed that if patients don't clean around braces, they can get white marks on the teeth.

breath, often there is minimal pain. If patients have gum issues and want straight teeth, the gums need to be treated and stable before we start orthodontic treatment." Dr Kataria said.

These white marks are signs of decalcification which might be a sign of the beginning of cavities.

He recommends that it's important to have a gum specialist to work in conjunction with him in challenging cases.

However, these problems are not seen with clear aligners.

"There is also a significant advantage in having a gum specialist at the premises so there is smooth communication between the two practitioners."

There are different treatment options available to patients with a history of gum disease. "If somebody has gum issues and they want straight teeth, rather than putting braces on them we can actually look after the gums as well as the teeth at the same time with clear aligners like Invisalign".

"Because the aligners can be removed- you can brush your teeth and look after them and there's less chance of having bleeding gums or leaving white marks on the teeth".

Anglehouse Orthodontics is located at 7 Whitehorse Road, Balwyn.

Situated in the same building is Melbourne Periocare Periodontics and Implant centre- a specialist gum care and dental implant centre. The principal periodontist (gum specialist) at this centre, with over two decades of experience, offers a full range of gum

Dr Gopal Kataria.

Picture: Rob Carew

treatment and dental implants. For an appointment, please call 9817 6427.

For further information please visit www.anglehouseorthodontics.com.au or www.melbourneperiocare.com.au

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

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SUMMER 2019/2020 21

Health

Dr Carol Donadio with Oscar and Eric.

Your child’s dental health starts with you AS a parent, you know it's your job to give your kids all they need for the best start in life until they are ready to look after themselves.

The first thing they need is love, but you have got that covered in spades.

The next thing is health and here is where it starts to get a bit more complicated.

Parents play an integral role in maintaining their child's overall health.

Amongst all the challenges that new parents face, you may not have thought much about the link between your child's dental health and their overall general health.

Studies show that oral health is an essential component of general health.

The adoption of good oral health habits in childhood is influenced by parents.

Dr Carol Donadio, wants to encourage pregnant women to visit the dentist for a comprehensive oral examination and a dental hygienist for their gum health assessment early in their pregnancy as there is a strong link between the dental health of the parents and that of their children. "The

first thing people think of is genetics, but that only plays a small role compared to homecare, diet, habits and professional dental care and education received.

At our dental practices we provide parents with oral health education and all the tools they need so that they can confidently look after their children's oral health, especially in the first three years, prior to their first dental visit."

Dr Donadio is educating her patients to understand that children are not born with cavity-causing bacteria.

The bacteria are acquired from birth onwards, usually from their mother or primary caregiver. "They are transmitted by doing things like sharing a spoon or sharing food, especially if a parent has an unmaintained mouth.

When an infant gets these bacteria, their risk of dental decay goes up.

I am on a mission to create awareness of the importance of parents having excellent dental health themselves to give their kids a better chance of having good oral health for life!"

So how do you ensure your kids have the best dental health possible?

Dr Carol Donadio with Oscar and Eric.

Dr Frances Shearer says: "The first thing I want all parents to know is that most dental disease is preventable. This means that you have the power to ensure your kids don't need fillings or extractions or have gum disease and the potential social stigma of bad breath and crooked teeth. As a mum myself, I am conscious of my own eating habits and oral health regime as I know my daughter will mimic these."

Dr Shearer recommends the first visit to the dentist or dental therapist when your child is around three years old.

"Starting this oral health habit early will make dentist visits part of your child's normal activities. At our dental practices, we even have special days dedicated to kids' oral health. We make it fun and interactive for them, and most importantly they leave happy and wanting to come back to see us."

Dr Becky Dudman, wants to encourage all parents to: • Ensure they are dentally healthy to

minimize transmission of their mouth bacteria; • Reduce sugar and starches in parents' and kids' diets; • Brush their kids' teeth and tongue twice a day; • Treat flossing as important as brushing; • Regularly visit your dentist and make this a family affair; and • Give kids fluoridated tap water rather than bottled water.

At our centres of dental excellence we provide you and your kids a planned, team approach necessary to achieve an excellent dental health for life, with the convenience of keeping all your dental visits in one place.

To enquire about a family visit rebate or get more information at a Kids' Health Day-, please call: Q Dental 9817 5050 In Boroondara or in Stonnington call: Dental Off Chapel 9510 5198

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www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Entertainment Summer concerts Bring a picnic rug and the whole family!

THE City of Stonnington presents its popular summer concerts over December, January and February, so come along and enjoy the sunsets and sounds of summer.

It's a chance to enjoy the beautiful parks and luscious gardens with sensational music to match.

The series opens on Sunday 5 January with Billy Davis & the Good Lords, a band with a unique blend of hip hop and RnB. Central Park in Malvern East will come alive on Sunday 12 January when The Northern Folk and Rach Brennan & The Pines hit the stage.

The sun will set on the concert series on Sunday 19 January with Emma Donovan and Laneous performing at Malvern Gardens.

Sunset Sounds at Victoria Gardens

Ashburton celebrates

Sunday 5 January, 5-8pm Victoria Gardens, 363- 381 High Street, Prahran

Support: Tanya George

Sunday 12 January, 5-8pm Central Park, 148 Burke Road, Malvern East Headline: The Northern Folk Support: Rach Brennan & The Pines

There will also be food and drink available and food trucks.

Sunday 19 January, 5-8pm

PBS DJ's will be spinning some tunes and warming up the crowd from 5pm at each event.

Headline: Emma Donovan

The festival is a great day out for families who come to enjoy good food, great entertainment, unique local products and a truly laid-back day with great community feel.

The festival has been running for over 20 years and is a uniquely Ashburton event that celebrates the fabulous shopping strip and the abundance of community groups that are a huge part of Ashburton.

Sunset Sounds at Central Park

Sunset Sounds at Malvern Gardens

groups with stalls offering unique items.

THE Ashburton Community "Last Weekend in Summer" Festival is on Sunday 23 February 2020.

Headline: Billy Davis & the Good Lords

The City of Boroondara generously support the event contributing nearly $30,000 in sponsorship.

The event attracts approximately 15,000 people throughout the day with festival goers entertained with an array of roving performers, rides, amusements, a live stage with their very own Ashburton Idol, interactive activities and much more.

The Ashbuton Festival wouldn't be possible without other business sponsors onboard including the Ashburton Community Bendigo Bank and Buxton's Ashburton.

The festival runs from 11am-4pm in High Street, Ashburton, with a beer garden and band after party until 7pm.

Ashburton Traders will have stalls selling different food, lots of sale items and special offers for the day and they will be a number of community

Malvern Gardens, Malvern Support: Laneous

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Fashion

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Tis the season for

bathers and days by the pool IT'S certainly that time of year to buy bathers as Christmas nears.

abundance that we have in our lives.

With the weather warming up and the days spent relaxing beside the pool or playing on the beach, swimwear is the perfect gift for little ones.

The look of delight on children's faces as they wake extra early and race to unwrap their presents and nibble on their favourite holiday treat, or the left-over carrot from Rudolf.

There are so many toys and gifts for toddlers to choose from but there is no substitute for being active and playing in the water to create the best holiday memories.

The spirit of Christmas should be in all our planning and purchasing decisions this year.

The holidays are about spending time together, sharing a special meal with friends and family, and celebrating the

24 SUMMER 2019/2020

Parents and carers are responsible for setting an example for our children of thoughtfulness in where and how we shop.

What gift we choose to place beneath the Christmas tree and what we serve on the Christmas table.

reason to buy this holiday season we choose our economic and environmental future.

By following our values at Tyoub, we have reduced the number of presents we buy with a Secret Santa.

'tis the season to buy bathers, make merry and spread cheer around your home.

Choosing gifts that are reusable and of good quality, that are designed with purpose and made for longevity.

From Christmas cakes that are 100% Aussie fruit to Melbourne made togs for sprogs.

Buying locally made and designed items, will not only sustain our local businesses and much loved high streets but will reduce the carbon footprint for a greener Christmas. By re-thinking our

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BORN TO PARTY

Born to party!

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Reptile parties are a unique idea for kid’s birthdays. Not only will the children experience something different, but they are guaranteed to be entertained.

Imagine getting to hold a crocodile or snake on your birthday and get up

Josh from Reptile Encounters has been providing these parties for over 12 years. “It’s great to see the kids really engaging with our wonderful animals because they are the wildlife ambassadors of the future“, says Josh.

We are sure they will love Connie the Barking Owl, Charlie the Saltwater crocodile, Victor the carpet python, Pano the Yellow Spotted monitor as well as many other native animals that make up our family.

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

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Entertainment

A family that plays together

By Rachel Hickingbotham THE White family are the outdoorsy type. In their spare time they spend hours frolicking on their 50 acre property in Narre Warren North surrounded by horses and ponies. When they are not at home, they can be found at Lysterfield Lake Park, usually on their bikes or having a dip in the lake.

Brooke White grew up around horses in Casey on the other side of Lysterfield Lake and has kept horses ever since.

She and husband, Malcolm have been fortunate to lease 50 acres next to their home and use the land to agist 6 horses, as well as 4 of their own. Now the two kids, Logan, 8 and Zali, 6 help care for their two ponies.

With Lysterfield Lake Park almost across the road, the family often take off on their bikes for a ride. There is an easy circuit for their kids.

“On nice hot days we can play in the lake”, says Brooke.

“The lake has a sandy area, like a beach front that is very popular in summer”.

The family can catch up with friends and have a BBQ after school on the weekends. Hopefully they will be able to take their new kayak out onto the lake this summer.

The kids are fortunate to be growing up around horses and also their own ponies, Bella who is 16 and Sparkles who is 8. Both kids help look after the ponies and Zali is a keen rider. Logan is happy to lead the ponies around and doing little obstacles with them, but not so keen to ride. Brooke is hoping that they will soon be able to take Bella and Sparkles for regular rides around Lysterfield Lake.

Brooke White and daughter Zali White take their ponies for a stroll.

The ffamily Th il llove cycing i in i national i l parks. k

Brooke says that they have settled into a lovely street and have created a life “as close to country living as we could”. In their spare time, the kids love to running about in nature, digging holes and playing down at the creek on the property.

running in and out of each others’ homes and are able to have street parties. Currently they are living with Brooke’s parents while they wait to move up the street a couple of houses.

Logan, who is Grade 2, is a bit of an inventor and likes to try and make rabbit traps out of rope, boxes and washing baskets.

"The kids are so lucky to be able to see their grandparents and play with their puglier dog whenever they like."

“He’s never caught one yet”, laughs Brooke.

When they are not playing on the property or at the lake, they are shooting hoops as both kids play weekend basketball.

Malcolm and Brooke love living in their community.

“Our whole court gets along really well, our neighbours are lovely” says Brooke.

The kids on the street are always

“Our family are really close”, says Brooke.

“We don’t spend a lot of time inside if we can help it”, says Brooke.

But on the days when they have to, Logan loves to draw and make stuff.

“Drawing is his main thing”, says Brooke.

Six year old Zali likes to take care of ’Baby’, her doll that has her own high chair, pram and even gets to come in the car on errands.

“Baby actually looks like a really baby”, says Brooke.

“Sometimes I end up carrying it when

The beautiful gifting experience at Marquise SHOPPING at the Marquise flagship store in Malvern is all about the gifting experience.

Customers can expect items they purchase - whether it’s a singlet, jumpsuit or blanket - to be carefully and thoughtfully wrapped, a complimentary service available at the store.

Owner Natalie Hershan said it’s about providing a special service to customers.

“Whether you’re buying a singlet for your own baby or if it’s a special gift, we gift wrap and it’s all a complimentary service,” she said.

Malvern Central’s newest retailers have a beautiful summer range showcased at the store.

There’s also pyjamas up to size 7, sun hats, wooden toys, hair accessories, teethers made of natural rubber sourced from Europe,

Zali doesn’t want to anymore. If I am not carrying ’Baby’ inappropriately, I can get death stares from others in the store”, laughs Brooke.

The family also loves all the How to Train a Dragon movies, which is now a popular series that even adults can enjoy.

In their working life, Malcolm is a plumber and Brooke is a secondary school teacher at St Margaret’s School.

Brooke has taken a year off work and is busy on her property and with her kids.

And she has literally been “making hay while the sun shines!“.

The couple are now set to harvest hay that they have been growing on their farm. What an extraordinary life they have created for their family.

Tuck into festive gingerbread CELEBRATE this festive season at Victoria Gardens with the Gingerbread Workshop and Santa Photography.

underwear up to size 10 and singlets up to size 14.

“These will make great stocking fillers for Christmas, there’s plenty of options in store today,” she said.

The Gingerbread Workshop will be in Centre on Saturday 15 December, Sunday 16 December, Saturday 21 December and Sunday 22 December outside Kmart from 10am - 2pm.

The first Marquise flagship store was officially opened in November, to showcase the Marquise range but also to become a gift destination.

The Marquise brand of baby clothing has been trusted for more than 85 years, with customers continuing to come back to the brand known for its exceptional quality, stylish range and comfort.

Don't miss out as there are only 20 seats for children at any one time to join in the Christmas Fun! Plus Santa will be making an appearance.

“The heritage of our brand is really important,’ Ms Hershan said.

He will be in Centre from 13 December - 24 December for Santa Snaps in the Food Court.

“Our customers come in and say, I dressed my own child in Marquise or I was dressed in Marquise when I was a baby!”

Visit the store at Shop 29, Malvern Central.

The Whites enjoy time on the water.

The flagship store recently opened in Malvern Central.

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

Entertainment Summer of fun at THE Art Factory actory wil will illl b be e ab abuzz buzz wit with ith h excitementt and minds d creative ti i d over the th summer with a range of great activities and workshops for the school holidays.

New owner Priti Roberts took over the running of The Art Factory in October with her husband and said she's excited to be taking on such an incredible business.

Ms Roberts, who has two young children aged 1 and 4, said she fell in love with The Art Factory.

"I went and visited the space with my

The Art Factory

daughter, daught hter, and d I thought, thought th ht, this thi his is is a done done deal!" d l!"

Over the Christmas holiday period, there's a dynamic program of arts and crafts for children aged 4-14, running from mid December through to the end of January.

Workshops are run by confident and talented artists, and children love being able to take home their special creation at the end.

The sessions are also drop-off sessions, so parents don't need to stay.

Some running Some off the th workshops work kshops h runniing this thiis th summer include; your own city, i l d design d i it Christmas slime, Christmas crafts, holiday cards, making a dream catcher and more.

There's also packages to host a party at The Art Factory, with options for food and beverages, and some creative activities to celebrate your child's birthday.

Book in now for art classes which are run during school terms at The Art Factory, starting back in early 2020.

There's something for every age group this summer at The Art Factory.

12433557-CG51-19

The research shows the many benefits to a musical start in life.

Mini Maestros Music Classes for 0-5 years LISTENING

CREATIV

ITY

PHYSI

A musical start in life

ECT L L TE

MAKING music is 'super food' for a child's developing brain, as it simultaneously engages areas involved in speech, listening, movement, intellect, socialisation, emotions and creativity.

IN

CAL

Neuroscientists are discovering that learning music engages almost every area of the brain at once.

SPEECH

Babies are born with an innate love of music, and music is an important part of a baby's development.

L CIA

Research showing the positive effects music has on learning and brain development abounds.

SO

One way to maximise the benefits of music for your baby or young child is to perform regular musical activities with them at home and to involve them in group music classes.

.

ONS I T O EM

Classes Throughout Stonnington & Boroondara

MAKE 2020 A YEAR OF FUN, LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT www.minimaestros.com.au

Some of the benefits that a structured music education program provides at an early age include encouraging creativity, selfexpression and self-confidence, as well as encouraging the

development of motor skills and promoting speech development.

Mini Maestros, for babies to five year olds, specialises in fun, wholebrain development, through playbased sequential learning, and it is the longest running and most successful Australian business of its kind.

Mini Maestros Fun & Educational Music Classes for Babies - 5 Year Olds; ■ Builds confidence ■ Nurtures whole brain development ■ Social Interaction for parent and child ■ Age-Specific for children's developmental stages ■ Classroom experience in preparation for kinder and school New students are welcome to join at any point in the teaching term, subject to availability.

Enrol today to support your little one's developing brain, and receive a free "at home" educational activities ePack.

Visit http://www.MiniMaestros. com.au to find a class near you.

Look What I Made!

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

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

Malvern 28 Glenferrie Rd Malvern VIC 3144

Essendon 307 Buckley St Aberfeldie VIC 3040

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

03 9576 0135

12396190-LB37-18

28 SUMMER 2019/2020

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Entertainment

Traditional fun AK Traditions is a textile design business selling and creating unique homemade goods steeped in history and tradition.

AK was started as a gallery more than 20 years ago by Annie Hider and this year moved to a new retail studio and welcoming work space.

AK is about creating and designing beautifully finished products using natural fibres - from pure wool felt dolls to handmade artisan collectibles as well as quality fabrics, pure wool felt and more.

Attention to detail and finish are key to ak's popularity as well as the narrative behind each design.

"We've always offered creative classes and holiday workshops as part of the ak concept and the new studio is the perfect venue," Ms Hider said.

There are holiday workshops designed to suit primary school children aged from 8 and adults alike, with a focus on teaching traditional textile techniques such as hand sewing, knitting and felting.

The emphasis is one enjoying the process and developing skills and confidence in a child's unique creativity.

Workshops include making wool felt dolls and toys and are aimed at people with a real interest and love of making handmade goods."In terms of classes they are small and individualised," Ms Hider said.

"I encourage working at your own pace - in essence we are about tradition

Orchardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the pick of the bunch RAYNER'S Orchard offers the opportunity to learn about everyday life on an orchard, how fruit grows and the chance to pick and taste your own fruit.

Attention to detail and finish are key to ak's popularity.

and traditionally handwork is done at your own pace.

"The process should be pleasurable as well as creating the end product. The process is as important as the activity itself'.

"If a child comes to us and wants to do their own design, we can help them with that too."

Ms Hider said the workshops are fabulous to stimulate a different part of the brain, as well doing an activity that's enjoyable and not technology driven, but a lifelong skill. "Reading patterns, making colour choices, and planning a project ... looking at something specially and understanding how you create it, uses a different part of the brain," she said.

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

Located in the gorgeous Yarra Valley, Rayner's offers customers over 450 varieties of fruit.

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

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

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

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

"We want to encourage visitors to

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

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

"We have 40 years of farming experience and our staff include local people as well as three generations from our family.

"They all strive to deliver our customers an experience to be remembered," Len said.

Rayner's Orchard will run its annual Fruits of the Yarra Valley Festival on 15 and 16 February 2020.

The orchard is located at 60 Schoolhouse Road in Woori Yallock and is open 9am to 5pm over summer (closed Christmas Day).

For more information, phone 5964 7654.

Fresh & Fruity Family

School Sc h Holiday Workshops at

Fun This Summer /0%. %6%29$!9 !- 0-

7E HAVE 5 0ICK &RUIT !,, 9EAR s FRUIT TASTING ADVENTURE TOURS

Ride around the farm behind the tractor a covered trailer - discover a new fruit, sample tasty fruit in season, Pick your own fruit straight from the tree. Suitable for ALL ages, eat as much as you like taste at least 8 fruit varieties.

Tour duration - 1 hour.

No bookings required s */). 53 !4 0%!#( #!&% &/2 ,5.#(

Sm Small, friendly creative classes classe clas las asse see designed for 8 to 12 2 year ye a olds interested in hand han n sewing, felting ng and it. learning to knit.

Rea a of 80 Glenferrie rrie Rd d Rear

Visit our farm cafe and check out our latest range of Jams, chutneys, preserved fruit & fruit leathers.

Enter through the cafe E En or from the car park. parkk.

Visit our fruit plant nursery located on the farm stocking 100â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of fruiting plants, specialising in dwarf varieties.

5964 7654 60 Schoolhouse Rd, Woori Yallock 3139

12427299-CG50-19

s &25)4 0,!.4 .523%29

For bookings, workshop F rkshop dates and details, d ails, vis sit w ons.com visit www.aktraditions.com or call Annie: e: M/ M 0439 100 988

www.raynersorchard.com.au

12433705-SN51-19

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

SUMMER 2019/2020 29

Education Preparing for

school and managing transitions There are a number of ways to better prepare your child for a new start.

PREPARING for the first day of school or an early learning centre is an exciting time in your child's life and a smooth transition will assist your child in developing a positive attitude towards their learning.

"This is a significant step in a child's educational journey and it is important that they are well prepared and positively supported for this change," explains Ms Sarah Bethune, Head of Early Learning Centre at St Catherine's School, Toorak.

There are many things families can do to support their child through this transition:

to the change.

ROLE MODEL POSITIVITY

Allow them to try on their uniform before their first day and include them in the process of purchasing books, stationery and lunch boxes. Ask them to help you pack their school bag in readiness for the first day.

"A positive transition will help your child to feel secure, confident and at ease in their new learning environment which is likely to result in a more engaged learner."

Explain where they will be going and what will be happening. Children feel secure in knowing what is happening ahead of time. Be prepared that it may take some time for your child to adapt

Your child will have many questions about this change. It is important that their questions are answered in an honest and reassuring manner without over-talking the subject and creating further worry.

PREPARE YOUR CHILD FOR THE CHANGE

INVOLVE YOUR CHILD IN THE PREPARATION

MAKE SURE YOU ARE PREPARED ON THE DAY Ensure your child's uniform, lunchbox and school bag are ready the day before which will help to minimise any stress on the day. Often children can sense their parents' feelings, so stay calm and be positive.

The St Catherine's School orientation and transition programs for ELC and Prep support and guide children and their families through these changes ensuring a sense of confidence, comfort and security. This involves opportunities for visiting their new classroom, meeting their new teachers and interacting with peers who will be in their class.

"Educators engage in discussion with the children to prepare them for each step in this process. This is done in a calm and reassuring way so that the children have enough information about what is happening but do not become overwhelmed," says Ms Bethune.

Great education starts early at St Catherineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s A Day and Boarding School for Girls, ELC to Year 12 (ELC includes boys)

Apply now for ELC 2021

17 Heyington Place Toorak VIC 3142 T: (03) 9822 1285 E: admissions@stcatherines.net.au

www.stcatherines.net.au/ELC 12433260-FA51-19

Parties, Workshops & Private Functions s s

Baking, Art & Science parties and workshops Private functions available for celebrations.

Free Weekday Activities & Indoor Playground / Cafe s s

Music, sensory play and lots more Large multi level play structure.

Fundrais venueing hire

12428955-NG51-19

30 SUMMER 2019/2020

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Education

The power in practise IT might sound cliche, but the best thing you can do when learning an instrument is practise.

Consistent practise takes an extraordinary amount of discipline and willpower, and as parents and teachers we often overlook this and reduce ourselves to berating and lamenting our kids to practice.

Top marks for heritage classroom A recently rebuilt heritage-listed classroom for 5-year-olds at Preshil in Kew has received a commendation at the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation.

The classroom originally opened in 1964.

The UNESCO awards recognise efforts to restore or conserve structures, places and properties of heritage value.

"Our job was to enable twenty?first century learners to ask different questions of the same building," Preshil Principal Marilyn Smith said.

"We made the decision to replicate

the original classroom designed by Kevin Borland with the students of the day, and transmit its full pedagogical potential to future generations of students and educationalists, rather than continue with reactive maintenance of the old building."

The 5s classroom is one of six experimentally engineered works designed by the school's architect Kevin Borland and structural engineer Bill Irwin.

The 5s classroom is the first valuable work of modern architecture to be systematically replicated and measured in Australia.

Here are some things to keep in mind that might help parents navigate this territory: 1. At any given point in your child's music education, what they are learning and taking home to practise is hard for them.

That's how we push them to progress, and that process never ends. Learning an instrument is relentless!

Empathise with your kids acknowledge the challenges they're undertaking and let them know they're doing amazing, just by tackling them!

Praise them for their achievements and remind them when they need it.

Confidence will wax and wane, and motivation to practise is tied to that.

2. Be careful not to equate the willingness kids have to practice, to how much they want to learn their instrument. Think about it - having that cheat meal doesn't mean you don't

Practise makes perfect when it comes to learning an instrument.

want to look good in those jeans! It takes a great amount of will power to be disciplined!

Help create an environment that is conducive to practising - establish routine, try to minimise distractions during their practise time and use bribery and reward by all means!

3. Be curious and involved! Ask them what new things they've learnt, if they felt their practise time was effective, what they're enjoying and why. Regardless of whether you know an iota about music or not, your engagement can help foster an energy in the kids that may inspire a deeper connection with the music and instrument they're playing.

We all know practise is essential for progress so we have nothing to lose by helping our kids traverse the demands that is practising.

The resulting joy we get from music is worth it.

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

12396998-LB37-18

The restored classroom received an international commendation.

Rosa Kang, director of Latitude Music Studios in Surrey Hills, has some helpful ways for parents to better manage their own expectations for their children when it comes to learning an instrument.

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

SUMMER 2019/2020 31

Education A new beginning for

Bialik Creche BIALIK College's spectacular new creche opened its doors in July to its first wave of tots and their families.

In November, after four exciting months, the Bialik Creche hosted a special event to officially open the centre and to thank the Bialik Foundation's generous donors.

New families were welcomed to the Bialik community and donors were able to see the state-of-the-art facilities that would not have been possible without their support.

Initial discussions about building a creche began in 2015 when the Bialik College Executive recognised an opportunity to extend the reach of the school to meet the needs of young families in the community.

Bialik Creche opened earlier this year.

Four years later this dream became a

reality and a delightful addition to Bialik's campus.

for their surrounding and teachers.

The creche welcomes children from three months through to three years into its beautiful facilities.

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

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

It is 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.

Bialik's Creche is purpose built and situated with the rest of the school in Hawthorn, offering convenience for parents and ensuring the creche is truly an integrated part of the Bialik school community. This provides children with a seamless transition as they progress in their learning journeys and with familiarity

The Bialik Creche is quickly filling up with families booking their children in for 2020 but there are still a few vacancies for interested families.

Please contact the Bialik Creche on 03 9822 7982 or by emailing creche@ bialik.vic.edu.au to make a booking for a personal tour.

Learning for life at Andale School ANDALE School recently celebrated its inaugural ball to build greater awareness of the school, raise funds for the future and celebrate students, staff and the school community.

The small independent primary school in Kew caters for children with language or learning disorders by providing individualised learning programs and support.

President Glen Draper said it was important to pause and reflect on 2019, and said there's big things planned for next year.

"We were keen to make sure parents, carers and teaching groups can celebrate 2019, as well as reset for 2020," he said.

"There's some exciting news from the school around new curriculum and other activities - there's a lot going on."

The philosophy at Andale is that each child should be viewed as a unique learner.

The aim is to provide a program that enhances the child's development, engages them as learners and encourages the children to develop initiative, resourcefulness, independence and responsibility.

Each child at Andale is viewed as exceptional and unique in their own challenges or learning difficulties.

"The children fit into a bit of a grey area - most of the kids could go to mainstream schools but they would need full time aides," Mr Draper explained.

"They may struggle with things particularly like the sense of belonging, inclusion and the friendships in mainstream - at Andale this all changes and doors open."

The school has specialist teachers, speech therapist and psychologist working with the children in small class groups. The children engage in many additional activities such as; karate, hip hop, art, drama, music, yoga and sport.

There's h bi big things hi planned l d at Andale d l next year.

All of the activities are aimed to highlight individual talents, and boost confidence. School camp, and regular excursions make Andale a fun place where every child is included.

Andale follows a regular primary

school curriculum, but with a highly modified program that is tailored to the individual needs of each student.

To enrol now or find out more about what's planned in 2020, visit www. andale.vic.edu.au

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32 SUMMER 2019/2020

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Education A day in the life of

Genazzano’s principal

KAREN Jebb could be forgiven had she missed my call.

development. Our learning spaces are designed to excite and engage the senses, such as the Centre of Excellence for Sport, Health & Movement and our state-of -the art digital classrooms that provide environments that foster a passion for life and a love for learning.”

As the clocks wind down to the end of term, this dynamic leader is winding up another successful year as principal of Melbourne’s acclaimed Catholic day and boarding school for girls, Genazzano FCJ College, found nestled in the leafy community of Kew.

An education at Genazzano starts at the Early Learning Centre where pre-school children embrace learning through creative and structured play.

Today is just another day in the life of Karen and she is a woman on a mission.

Today she’ll greet students and parents who’ve entrusted their daughters to the renowned ‘Gen’ education.

She’ll steer back to back meetings, cheer inter-class debating, speak at a weekly assembly, applaud the arts concert, oversee the academic and co-curricular rosters, head the panel for student awards and prepare for 2020 with the leadership team.

On this particular day, she’s also finalising the strategic plan, articulating the vision and strategy to guide the ongoing success of Genazzano.

Meanwhile around the campus, the Genazzano community is buzzing with pride about this year’s achievements and excitedly awaits what the new year will bring.

When asked to share some notable achievements since she took the reins in 2016, Karen pauses and reflects. “There

have been many achievements that we, a team of educators, staff and students are proud of.

“I am particularly proud of the launch of the Genazzano Institute of Learning & Brain Sciences, our ever-evolving sporting programs, our focus on STEM for girls and also the development of our seven new art studios.”

“These are complemented by the extensive professional development offered to our teaching staff in the Science of Learning, and are at core of our vision for students and families; to nurture a passion for life and a lifelong love of learning.”

Karen continues, “Genazzano was recently ranked as one of the top schools at the cutting edge of change and innovation by leading academic publication, The Educator. We were

recognized for our work in developing the Genazzano Institute of Learning & Brain Sciences which promotes a better understanding of brain function and health for improved learning. Most powerfully, our teachers have become researchers in their own classrooms, which has had a profound impact on learning for our students and lifted academic outcomes and student engagement.”

Karen is equally passionate about developing the College campus and grounds to support these initiatives and innovation.

“In 2020, the College capital works program will see the redevelopment of the visual arts studios and several learning centers’ of excellence, which will embrace all ages and stages of students’ creative and academic

This provides a seamless transition to the Junior school through to the Senior school where students participate in a vast array of co-curricular activities, (more than 130 on offer) to complement their academic studies.

Karen explains “The Genazzano community is a part of our girls’ identities - it is special to be a ‘Gen girl’ and this connection to the College is lifelong. It’s wonderful to see the level of inclusiveness and participation among the students, happily engaged in their learning journeys whilst developing lifelong friendships. A strong alliance with our brother school, Xavier College affords further co-curricular activities and social opportunities.”

Karen Jebb’s vision, passion and dedication is awe-inspiring. As she guides the College through its 131st year, we are blessed knowing our girls are in the very best of hands.

- By Sandra MacFarlane

So much on offer at BASE Camp Kids BASE Camp Kids in Nunawading is a different kind of children's play centre and entertainment venue, hosting children's parties, workshops as well as being a fabulous function space for adults.There's no deep fried food on offer for children, which makes life easier for parents trying to give their kids healthy options at the play centre.

BASE Camp Kids runs art, baking and science workshops during the school holidays which are always popular for school aged children, and there's a real focus on creating hands on fun memories for children.

There's so much more on offer than just painting during the art workshops and parties, with kids being able to participate in a range of fun, sensory activities such as painting wooden trees, rocket ships or terracotta flower

pots, and so much more.For the science workshops and parties, kids get a chance to take part in some fun, safe science experiments such as making slime, sherbet or bath bombs.

The kids wear science coats and love the opportunity to experiment and make a bit of a mess.The children love the baking workshops and parties where they explore making lots of different cookies and cupcakes, including decorating the cupcakes.

Exceptional outcomes for exceptional kids.

Andale School is a small independent primary school that caters for children with language or learning disorders by providing individualised learning programs and support.

There's also music sessions and sensory play sessions on offer.It's also a great venue to hosts parties for all ages - children and adults.Customers are ways quick to comment on how clean BASE Camp is and how well set up it is for kids of all ages.BASE Camp Kids is located at Shop 11, Level 1, Home HQ, 372-394 Whitehorse Road, Nunawading.

Enrol now!

For more information enquire with us today 03 9853 3911

andaleschool@andale.vic.edu.au

andale.vic.edu.au

84 Charles Street Kew Melbourne 3101

Billy, Jamie, Christian, Alexander, Matoo, Luca with the main play area and adventure playground at BASE Camp Kids.

Picture: Rob Carew 12429830-NG51-19

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

SUMMER 2019/2020 33

Education ASPIRE program at Siena STUDENTS from St Dominic's Primary School in Camberwell will be the first to experience the new ASPIRE program at Siena College.

ASPIRE was designed to allow highly able local primary school students to work with Year 8 students on STEM based activities.

Siena College's Head of Science, Assimina Semertjis, says the program encourages the older students to build their leadership skills and act as Science ambassadors for their younger counterparts.

off to a flying start

Students will look at the big challenges facing our world and work in teams to investigate a possible solution using STEM skills such as critical thinking, analysis and logical reasoning.

The first theme is world hunger, with students looking at the possibility of farming and eating insects.

As Ms Semertjis explains, "Insects are already eaten in parts of Asia, South America and Africa. We wanted to do something the primary school students will get excited about and we think all

kids really love insects," she said.

"Eating them is going to push the boundaries!"

Inspired by the United Nation's Zero Hunger Challenge, students will develop a powerful pitch to convince the audience that introducing their chosen insect into our diet has many benefits.

They will need to include scientific and mathematical evidence and along the way will learn how to use specialist equipment such as digital microscopes.

As part of their presentation, teams

The students taking part in the new program at Siena.

will also build a model displaying their insect farm and produce a digital story selling their idea.

Kids leading the way to transform toilets

By Danielle Galvin

It would have been a simple fix, and yet it was having a detrimental impact on the young girl's leaning and enjoyment.

The story is much the same at primary and high schools.

"No adult goes into that environment and when we don't see it, we don't value it and it's not good enough," she said.

PLASTERED on the walls of the toilets at a primary school in Melbourne's outer east are the words "there's no limit to what you can do".

On another door, another inspirational quote reads "don't let the world change your smile".

There's stars, flowers, and an eclectic mix of colours, paintings and designs all from the students at the school.

Author and former high school teacher Dannielle Miller said school toilets are either tragic places "gross or covered in graffiti" or simply sterile facilities.

Ms Miller, who is also CEO of Enlighten Education, read about a child in despair in a school toilet and it got her thinking.

"I thought about all of the kids I had seen over the years who I had found in the toilets having a little cry or being comforted by their friends and I thought why do we accept school toilets are just foul? It's almost a given," she explained.

"They are not foul in offices, they're not foul in shopping centres, and if they are, it's unacceptable."

In her research, she discovered just how serious the problem is.

Poor sanitation or below average conditions can put children off drinking water, in an effort to avoid using the toilet, and lead to them being dehydrated and lacking concentration.

And while many children use toilets as

Montgomery, Kate, Ruby, b Miss i Russell ll and d Natalie li standing di iin the h newly l transformed f d toilets il at Monbulk b lk Primary School.

Picture: Rob Carew

their go to place when they need a moment or feel overwhelmed, they are often greeted with an out of date or run down facility, rather than an uplifting one.

"I just thought we need to rethink this," she said.

"I wanted students to rethink school toilets because then everything they learn is transferrable.

"My ultimate goal is to teach students how does environment set my mood."

That's where the idea for the 'School Toilet Project' came from, a way to reimagine bathroom facilities.

Ms Miller said she started the conversation and now it's up to schools to take it up.

She said the most important thing to

do is for schools to involve students in it - the design and overall beautification process. "[Students] are creating a little refuge for themselves that isn't just functional that also impacts on their sense of connection and they are going to feel valued in their own school community and it's good that they have a voice," she said.

In one example, a mum of a preschooler contacted Ms Miller to tell her about why her daughter was refusing school.

She discovered it was because her young daughter was terrified to go to the toilet - the light bulb had blown and it was dark, and there were creepy crawlies in there.

Monbulk Primary School Year 5 and 6 teacher Ruby Russell said there were plans to beautify the senior and junior school toilet blocks, as well as the staff toilets.

She said they weren't neglected, but were simply sterile and functional.

"After some research and being part of 'Champions for School Toilet Transformation' Facebook group, it really highlighted the importance of having an inspiring toilet space for students," she said.

"I personally believe toilets should be a priority as often students, especially in older years, will go to the toilet if they are in need of a breather.

"If they are going to a space that is plain and boring vs. a space that is uplifting and positive, it will help with their mindset."

Passionate about student wellbeing, Miss Russell said in her view it's critical each and every student feels safe and happy in a school environment.

While prioritising resources in a public school is difficult, the project has been supported by the local Bendigo Bank branch which provided a grant to the school.

Open Mornings 2020 Friday, 7 February Monday, 4 May Friday, 12 June Monday, 10 August Friday, 11 September Monday, 19 October

www.siena.vic.edu.au 12430056-CG51-19

34 SUMMER 2019/2020

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Reality Bites

It's important everyone is on the same page.

School holiday tips for grandparents

By Danielle Galvin FOR many Australian kids, spending time with their grandparents over the summer school holidays is a rite of passage.

With nearly six weeks off over Christmas and into January, many parents call on their own parents to watch the kids during the week.

It's a chance to spend some quality time together, at the beach, heading to the park for a picnic, or a trip to the movies.

Pregnancy, Birth and Baby, a government funded website and resource has some tips to make sure families stay harmonious.

One tip includes being upfront about how many hours you can babysit so that everyone is clear on the expectations.

Grandparents Victoria director Anne McLeish agrees and advises grandparents to sit down and have a chat with parents beforehand, to make sure everyone is on the same page.

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She said a common problem that comes up is who pays for the day's activities, especially when kids have an expectation to be kept busy.

"I'd tell (people) to have a face to face meeting, and sit around a table and even write down what the agreement is," she said.

"So often we find people have different understanding about what the grandparents or parents agreed to do.

"It sounds very formal, but having those points can make things clear to people.

"The thing that needs to be addressed is who pays for what.

She said another issue that comes up is parents failing to pick up their kids on time.

"Grandparents need to know when they knock off for the night, so to speak," she said.

Ms McLeish also suggested sending lunch boxes for kids lunches and snacks, particularly if your child is a fussy eater.

Another suggestion is being clear about rules, boundaries and how to handle tantrums.

She said in her view the mantra "my house my rules" is a reasonable approach.

"The single most common complaint we have from grandparents is that they pay for far more than what they can actually afford to pay for, particularly over the school holidays when kids want to go to the movies, go out for a picnic or go to McDonald's.

But it's also a lovely chance to build a special bond.

"I'm not accusing parents of deliberately taking advantage, it's another case of it getting lost."

"Child centred play brings grandparents and grandchildren together."

Both children and their grandparents relish in that time together, with a chance to make memories together.

"Grandchildren often stimulate the inner child in the grandparents, and it's play that does it," Ms McLeish said.

Top tips from Pregnancy, Birth and Baby ■ Be upfront about your needs and understand those of the parents so there are no unwelcome surprises or unmet expectations. Setting boundaries around things like the number of hours and days of the week you are available, and the meals you provide can help things run smoothly.

■ All parents will have their own views on things like how much TV time or outside play is best for their child. Finding out what these are and respecting those views from the outset will give your grandchildren a consistent message and avoid potential conflict.

■ If you feel your grandchildren need discipline while in your care, check with their parents first about what they would do.

■ Think about whether you might need to make some changes to your home before children arrive so it's safe for young exploring children. Make sure things such as dangerous chemicals and sharp or breakable objects are well out of reach.

For more information about how to access support, setting boundaries and maintaining a healthy life balance visit www. pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/ grandparents.

SUMMER 2019/2020 35

Reality Bites

Who’s watching your kids?

By Rachel Hickingbotham

You can prevent children drowning by doing a few simple things:

MATT Welsh is a former world champion swimmer, Olympian and now a Kidsafe campaign ambassador. Most importantly he is the father of 5 young children. He knows how critical it is to spread the message of safety by the water.

1. Make sure your pool safety barriers are actually safe

Drowning does not look like drowning. It can be quick and silent and easy to miss by people nearby.

Don’t rely on a child to call out for help.

In fact, it can take as little as 20 seconds for a child to drown.

Evidence suggests that a large number of drowning deaths are the result of barriers that are faulty, or non-compliant with Australian standards.

“Children drown quickly and silently”, says Matt.

“Together with a compliant pool barrier that is regularly checked and maintained, your home pool defence should also include active adult supervision of children in and around water, water awareness and first aid knowledge to keep your family safe this season."

Live Saving Victoria recommends that until your children are 10 years of age and competent swimmers, you must keep your eyes on them at all time. If they under the age of 6, they must be within arm’s reach Even if your children look confident around the water and are having fun with their friends, the danger of drowning never takes a break. When our kids are happy and occupied, do not get distracted by your phone. Your eyes need to stay on your child.

Last year 18 children under 5 died in by drowning in Australia.

“Despite significant reductions in toddler drowning deaths over time, drowning continues to be one of the leading causes of accidental death for Australian children under 5 years of age,” explained Jason Chambers, General Manager of Kidsafe Victoria.

36 SUMMER 2019/2020

If you own a pool or spa, make sure you check your pool barriers this month.

Safety fencing is compulsory for all pools, but it is common to overlook the proper maintenance of them.

“Common faults or non-compliance issues include gates and doors that are no longer self-closing or latching, gates that are propped open and climbable objects near the barrier - all of which can provide children with unsupervised access to the water area”, explained Mr Chambers.

Kidsafe has launched the national ‘Safe Barriers Save Lives’ campaign that urges all pool and spa owners to remember to check the safety and compliance of their pool or spa barrier when they change their clocks at the beginning of daylight savings time in early October.

Remember, even though your own children may be competent swimmers, visiting children may not. It is illegal to leave a pool or spa gate propped open and climbable objects must be moved away from the barrier at all times. These include pot plants, eskies, pool pumps, chairs and other furniture.

“There is no better use of 15 minutes of your time than checking the safety of your pool barrier in preparation for the warm summer months ahead”, said Matt Welsh.

2. Temporary pools need fencing too All pools that have a depth as little as 30 centimetres are required to be surrounded by a safety barrier. That

means that if you (or Santa) buys your kids a large frame pool or even a smaller inflatable pool this summer, then you must still ensure it is properly fenced off.

All pools and spas, including all kinds of temporary pools must have a four-sided barrier with no direct access from the house or any other building to the pool. The barriers must be a minimum of 1.2 metres high. Barrier gates must be self-closing and selflatching.

Manufacturers and retailers of temporary pools assume no responsibility for your family’s safety and may include pool safety notices in their products prompting buyers to follow mandatory legislation.

3. Never stop supervising You can prevent drowning by keeping your eyes on your child. Use the time to stay present and enjoy the water with your children. Do not be tempted to sit back while your kids are occupied and get distracted by your devices or friends.

Put your phone down and watch your kids. “Lifeguards do a great job of keeping our pools safe, but they are not babysitters”, said a Life Saving Victoria spokesperson.

Keep these age guidelines in mind when you take your children to the pool:

group, make a point to stay focused on their safety.

■ Children aged 11 to 14, still need an adult regularly checking on their child by physically going to the edge of the pool, spa or beach where they are swimming. Accidents happen in playful games even with older kids.

No matter what their age, keep your child’s swimming ability in mind and be prepared to jump into the water at a moment’s notice. Lifeguards at pools and beaches are an extra precaution but should be relied on to fully supervise your children.

4. Who’s watching the kids?

Pool parties in peoples’ homes are a high-risk place for pool safety. Pool parties over the summer can be relaxed and enjoyable and with lots of adults around, and it can often seem like there is extra supervision for children.

However, these situations can often be the most dangerous.

“Everyone may assume that someone else is watching the kids when in fact, nobody is“, warns Kidsafe.

If you are chatting with friends around the pool, make sure pool safety is a key part of your conversation and everyone is aware that eyes need to be on the kids.

■ Babies and toddlers from birth to 5 years old (as well as non-swimmers) must have a parent or guardian in the water at all times within arm’s reach of the child. It is best if you are engaging with your child. Use this time to play, talk and cuddle them in the water.

“Nominate ‘designated supervisors’ whose role it is to supervise children in and around the water - that way, there is no confusion as to who is watching the kids. This role can be shared throughout the day, so everyone gets a chance to relax. You can even use a special hat or wristband so that it is clear who the designated supervisors are."

■ If your child is aged 6 to 10 years old, a parent or guardian should be close enough to make eye contact with the child and be constantly watching them. If you choose not to be in the water with your children of this age

So, remember, safety first. It’s better to be a pool safety evangelist and relax knowing your kids are safe by the water and your pool is safe for everyone.

Check you fencing, keep supervising and enjoy the water this summer.

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Reality Bites

ON THE MOVE with 16 children

By Rachel Hickingbotham TRAVELLING in a group of 21, when 16 of them are your own children is not for the faint-hearted.

Holidays for the Bonell family, Australia's biggest, are usually short, sweet and on a tight budget, however earlier this year, parents Jeni and Ray Bonell surprised their kids with something extra special.

They called a family meeting around the dinner table - "Mum and I have some news", announced Ray "anyone want to guess what it is?".

Understandably, many of the children's guesses were "a new little brother or sister" followed closely by hopes of a pet dog.

"First things first, Mum is not pregnant ... sorry ... and we are most definitely not getting a dog!", Jeni announced in her family YouTube video.

The big news was that the couple had a holiday planned for their children. Everyone was invited including the eldest kids and their new babies.

Before long a total of 21 tickets were booked for Port Douglas with promises of a day trip out to the Great Barrier Reef.

The Bonell Family (with one of their grandchildren) getting ready for their big family holiday.

Jeni's Big Family Packing Tips

"For most of us, this is the first time on a plane!", Jeni said.

1. Make Lists

Jeni Bonell is used to juggling life with her big family.

Get as organised as possible before you go. Give your kids a list of clothes they will need based on the weather forecast.

Her number one tip for travelling with children "is to organise as much a possible before a holiday to make the most of the time away".

2. Plan Outfits Lay out each day's outfit to decide on what you need to take. Take only what you need and do not over pack.

For the Bonells this means lists upon lists.

"I am the Queen of Lists", laughs Jeni.

"I made lists of all of our bags and what was in each one".

Each suitcase had a matching ribbon tied onto it and was well-labelled and numbered.

3. Divide and Conquer

All 18 members of the Bonell family. 16 children ages 5 to 30.

"We count the bags as they come off the airport carousel".

forgot that some of the kids get motion sickness".

Although the Bonell family packed as light as possible, they still had a mountain of luggage.

Jeni is a caring mum but couldn't help giggling when explaining the crazy sight of her and Ray bouncing around the boat on choppy seas assisting vomiting children.

"I put a limit to 10 bags for the 21 of us. Two whole bags were just our 21 beach towels!", explained Jeni.

When looking for places to stay, Jeni found searching online for accommodation that would house her entire family was very limiting.

"All of the online accommodation companies only allowed her to search for up to 6 children".

That's when booking.com came in.

"Booking.com was able to help us find enough space for us all. We booked 3 villas with 3 bedrooms each".

The holiday involved two buses and one plane ride which sounds simple.

Imagine that with a group of 21.

"Everyone had a buddy for the bus rides and the plane, so no-one got left behind", explained Jeni.

It's safe to say that no matter how organised you are, life will always throw curve balls. On their day trip to the reef, Jeni said that "9 of us found our sea-legs while 13 found sea-sickness bags".

In all of her organising, Jeni admits "I

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"Having a big family eliminates your time to sweat the small stuff".

Having a big family like this doesn't happen by accident.

We were fascinated to hear that when Jeni was married at 19, she didn't want kids. Her husband Ray, arguably Australia's most persuasive partner, is one of 6 siblings and had his heart set on lots of children. He inspired his wife to try for one baby and, before long, Jeni was convincing Ray for a third child.

"I agreed to have one, maybe two kids, but it was actually me who asked for number three because I loved being a mum so much," Jeni explained.

"It is not for everyone, but it feels right for us".

Jeni's love of being a mother grew with the birth of each child.

"Each and every child is a gift for us".

Now at aged 50, Jeni and Ray have 16 children ranging from 5 to 30 and are more than happy to welcome more babies in their lives. These days they are

fulfilling their craving for baby snuggles as grandparents since their two eldest children have had their first baby each.

"These days we have only 13 of them living at home and counting out that few dinner plates still doesn't feel right".

Jeni admits that all is right in her world when the entire family comes together for a Sunday roast and 21 plus plates are laid out.

The Bonell family shares a big part of their large family logistics on social media including an ongoing series of YouTube videos. Jeni's inspirational rostering system to get their kids helping in their busy home plus tips on saving money by meal prepping are proving helpful to other families, big and small.

"We do not put up the posts about our lives to get attention, we do it to share and help others. As mothers we should build each other up not pull each other down".

One of the ways Jeni does this is by starting her week by sharing motivational words. Just as she says, her family of 16 did not grow by accident and believes that "people don't succeed by accident either. It takes standards, hard work, dedication, sacrifice and persistence". Her children have learnt this and will carry these lessons throughout their entire lives.

Pack each child's clothes and one pair of extra shoes into named totes/bags or packing cubes. Then pack them all together into a rolling suitcase. Make sure you include a plastic bag for each child to pack their dirty shoes into.

4. Colour-code and Number Bags Tie a bright ribbon in the same colour onto each of your bags.

Number each suitcase and make a note of how many bags you need to count off the carousel.

The Bonell Kids Imagine needing to remember them all in order, not to mention their birthdays!

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

Jesse Brooke Claire Natalie Karl Samuel Cameron Sabrina Tim Brandon Eve Nate Rachel Eric Damian Katelyn

SUMMER 2019/2020 37

IT'S CHRISTMAS TIME

Top tips for a calm Christmas CHRISTMAS is coming. Are you feeling calm or frazzled? We are here to help!

Our range of Kids magazines are written entirely by mothers. Our writing team comprises busy working mums with kids aged zero to 15. We work while our kids are at school, kinder, daycare or with family. We work when they can often when the kids are in bed and sometimes late into the night. We know what it’s like to juggle. Christmas is no exception.

So, as we round the corner into the silly season, we called upon our mum-writers to share their tips for a calm Christmas. We also turned to Amy Revell, Melbourne mum, professional organiser and podcaster for expert calm home advice. Amy runs an online de-cluttering course called, “Head, Heart & Home” which inspired us for this article.

HOME Let’s start at home, for if your home is a mess your mind will be too. Our home expert, Amy Revell shared some ideas of how to give our homes a quick calming make-over before school breaks up.

1. Declutter toys “If you have time before Christmas, sit with your kids and go through their toy collection. Anything they no longer used can be given away to make space for new gifts”, suggests Amy. “This is a great activity to do with your children in December is to do a thorough declutter of their toys. Use the opportunity when you know they’re likely to receive new toys for Christmas to work with them to donate and declutter toys they no longer love and play with. Clear out space so that after Christmas when it’s time to put new toys away you actually have space to fit them and find a home for everything”.

2. Clear out hard rubbish Amy: Go around the main living and entertaining areas in your home and declutter the obvious un-wanted, un-needed and broken items in your house. Anything that cannot be donated can be discarded. Tip: do it right away; don’t leave bags of rubbish at your front door or clogging up your car.

“Whether your council picks up from

38 SUMMER 2019/2020

your house or you need to visit the tip, I recommend you plan to do a hard rubbish removal at the beginning of December. This is a great chance to get rid of any big items that have broken throughout the year. Have a look in the house and outside in the garden and you might be surprised how much you can clear out. Go into the Christmas season feeling good knowing all your hard rubbish has been taken care of,” suggests Amy. 3. Donate to others Consider not selling your gently loved toys and usable household goods and donating instead. Drop these off to a charity organisation near you and they could have a second life with another family this Christmas. Important: remember to actually drop donations off as soon as possible and do not leave them in the back of your car until New Year!

4. Make stations Rachel: Set up a “wrapping station” before Christmas every year. Other than paper, ribbon and labels, ensure to include scissors and sticky tape and remind other family members to keep everything together. The wrapping station could just be a big plastic tub in the corner of your living room or a designated shelf in a cupboard. “Teach your family where the station to ensure anyone can find the materials they need”, suggests Rachel.

Eliza: I have a separate set of cutlery, plates and glasses that I have ready to go for entertaining. “This saves madly clawing through the dishwasher at the last minute, looking for extra forks or knives”. I also scan or print out my go-to recipes and have them in a file so I can get straight into cooking”.

HEAD Get your mental load organised. Crack out your calendar and face the reality of your time.

If you haven’t started filling your diaries in detail, now is the time to get organised.

1. Make friends with your calendar Rachel: At this time of the year, you can almost start treating your calendar like another family member. Give it lots of attention by checking in every couple

of days. You can plan some things weeks in advance, but make sure the little things like gifts, food platters and Christmas clothes are organised at least a day in advance from an event. Try and make it a goal to avoid the lastminute dash to the shops or frantically searching for a santa hat.

2. Be realistic There is no room for perfectionism at Christmas, or any time of the year in fact. Saying no and “sorry, but we already have enough on our calendar this week”, is not only OK, but healthy for you and your family.

Our home expert, Amy says “Kids are particularly tired during December with all the additional childcare and school activities so it’s OK to pop into an event rather than be the first to arrive and the last to leave. It’s even OK to pass on an event that you know will have a negative flow on effect to your family routine and capacity”.

Eliza: To-do lists are my favourite things for juggling work, home and parenting. I break things down into a “daily” list and a “running” list - of things I need to get done less urgently.

“When things are hectic, I try to set aside an afternoon where I’ll batch cook a whole lot of healthy meals and freeze them in individual portion sizes (including extra-small ones for the baby!). At the moment our freezer is full of green minestrone, vegetable lasagne and dahl”, says Eliza.

HEART Gives should come from the heart, not just from your head and purse. If you can set aside to give your gift giving some extra thought, you will find the joy of giving that is so easily lost in all the haze of frantic shopping.

1. Create a gift list Amy: Before you buy any more gifts this year, take a moment to write down who you intend to buy for and if you’ve already bought items, write these down too. “It’s easy to overspend at Christmas when you forget you bought something and buy another gift for the same person. Keeping a list will keep you on budget and help you feel organised”, explains Amy.

2. Go Christmas List Shopping Rachel: Take your kids to two or three shops that sell things that you know they like and get them to wander around and look at everything. We call this “Christmas List Shopping”. Once they show you what they like, you can take a photo and make a note of the price. Use this time to help your kids to understand how many gifts is appropriate to ask Santa for and if you think what they have chosen fits with Santa’s budget. When you get home, help them to write a letter to Santa, take a photo of it and post it.

You can post it directly into any Australia Post box. “They may even get a reply, not from Santa himself, but from the friendly elves at the post office”, says Rachel.

3. Buy experiences Amy: This year get creative in your gift giving and think about moving away from physical gifts to giving experiences. We often do this for adults, but it’s fantastic for kids too. Think movie tickets, play centre passes, local theatre group ticket, theme park voucher, lessons for a hobby (craft, music, theatre, sport), there are so many great experiences for kids that will get them active, creative and learning new things. See our article in this magazine on Giving the Gift of Experiences.

4. Make a gift stash Eliza: Why not cook up a batch of marmalade, lemon butter, jam or applesauce with your kids? Or maybe a fruitcake, shortbread or a gingerbread house? This won’t do for “big” presents, but for smaller gifts, a little hamper of homemade deliciousness is perfect.

I also have an emergency stash of generic presents (such as chocolate, tea and wine) that I can pull out to avoid that awkward someone-has-given-yousomething-but-you-don’t-have-anythingfor-them moments.

Contributors: Amy Revell, mum of 2, Professional Organiser and owner of The Art of Decluttering course and podcasts: www.artofdecluttering.com.au Rachel Hickingbotham, mum of 3, writer - Casey Cardinia Kids & Knox Monash Kids.

Eliza Henry-Jones, mum of 1, writer - Yarra Ranges Kids & Geelong Coast Kids.

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Quality toys for children today IN a market where everything seems expendable and made in mass quantities to be identically reproduced and replaced, what has happened to the concept of the much loved toy that lasts for over a lifetime?

Made in Australia from high quality sturdy wood, they are made to withstand the test of time.

Another question people ask is where the product is made?

Windmill is a family business that has been selling educational toys for nearly 40 years now.

Many of their customers have been returning for generations.

Over that time they have found that in spite of changes to the way toys are made, people still return to some of the same qualities in products.

One key thing they have identified is a toys durability.

One of their best-selling ranges is their line of walker wagons for children.

Customers often prefer Australian made products such as the classic handmade Painted Wooden Garage and wooden tables and chairs or recognised names such as Hape: a German originated company that is the largest supplier of wooden toys in the world.

People are aware of materials used to make products and whether they are non-toxic, renewably sourced or recycled using environmentally friendly means of production.

Hape now has a range of toys made out of bamboo- a highly renewable material.

Parents and customers also look for the educational qualities of a toy.

Leading educational toy and game makers design toys and games that are able to foster different areas such as creativity, problem solving and fine motor skills at the same time.

One leading game maker ThinkFun aims to translate the ideas of the mathematicians, engineers and inventors into simple toys that can be appreciated by children around the world.

Science themed products such as KidzLabs Volcano Making Kit and Lisciani's Discover The Human Body and What's an Earthquake are great tool kits for children to learn about and build natural phenomena.

Hape's Baby Einstein range of interactive musical instruments includes the wonderful Magic Touch Xylophone which was designed to introduce toddlers to the world of music.

And then there's more instantly recognisable educational resources such as readers or counting and maths charts and games.

Windmill also stock a small range of children's books some of which are by Australian authors.

Products that can engage children for long periods of time that are not devices such as i-pads and mobiles are prized by parents.

Windmill is located at 591 Whitehorse Road, Mont Albert or visit https://www. windmill.net.au/

Best gifts this Christmas WITH Christmas just around the corner, it can be hard to come up with fresh ideas for the children and loved ones in our lives who seemingly have it all. Below is a list of a few ideas, from toys to something perfect for a first-time mum.

3. PRAM POUCH BY ZOOZARO

1. CUBBIES FROM GINGERBREAD COTTAGE CO Fancy something special in your garden? The Gingerbread Cottage Co have been building high quality, unique cubby houses for over 20 years. Features include polished floorboards, period details, can be dismantled and re-assembled, all come prepainted. More like a little cottage than just a cubby.

Sizes start at 1.8 x 1.5m. Prices from $2,700. Available from Gingerbread Cubbies, phone 1300 798 040 or visit www. gingerbreadcubbies.com

2. KINDERFEETS BALANCE BIKE AND TINY TOT TRIKE Kinderfeets are wooden balance bikes designed to ease a child’s transition to riding a pedal-powered bicycle.

Kinderfeets don’t just look stunning, they’re also ergonomically designed to provide the perfect transition experience.

Children as young as 12 months can start with the entry-level Tiny Tot. The durable, European-styled wooden balance bikes provide a safe, confidence-building transition from a child’s first ride-on to pedal-powered bicycles. The Tiny Tot Trikes are $134.99 for coloured bikes and $144.99 for bamboo. The Balance Bikes are $159.99 for coloured and $169.99 for bamboo.

Visit Toot Toot Toys for more, https://www.toottoottoys.com.au/ or 637 Centre Road, Bentleigh.

www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

Light and portable, yet strong and durable, the Zoozaro Pram Pouch fits all popular pram brands and is perfect for any type of outing. It’s the backpack for your stroller and pram. No need to carry one yourself - let the pram do all the work! It makes outings with children simple and stress free. It’s the perfect gift this Christmas!

The Pram Pouch is $74.95, free shipping in Australia. For more, visit https://zoozaro.com.au/

4. PEPPERMINT TREEHOUSE ENGINEERING ADVENTURE This award winning gift for kids, aged 8 years and up, is a comprehensive STEM kit focusing on engineering, pulleys, gears, circuits and their practical applications. Available from Windmill Toys, 591 Whitehorse Road Mont Albert or https://www.windmill.net.au/ SUMMER 2019/2020 39

Books The book to get you

back into play

By Danielle Galvin

and my 2-year-old boy was just not interested in doing craft."

LIKE many great ideas, Alice Zsembery's book 'Real Kids, Real Play' was born from a gap in the market.

In her own words, Alice, a maritime engineer and port planner, is not all that creative.

When the Stonnington mum welcomed her second child, she quickly discovered she needed to entertain her 2-year-old son who was climbing the walls as the newborn slept.

That's why she needed a resource she could quickly turn to.

And she wanted a way to keep him engaged that didn't involve a screen.

Real Kids, Real Play has more than 150 quick, easy and "old-school" activities to keep 0-5-year-olds busy and stimulate their creativity.

"I had a 2-year-old boy literally pulling the house apart and I was stuck with what to do with him," she explained.

"Like many parents these days, I bought him everything he could ever want or dream of, under the misconception that would keep him occupied but he wasn't actually engaged or doing any activity.

"It was kind of then that I was looking desperately to find something to keep him entertained.

"All I could find was books on crafts,

What she wanted was a book that had it all - activities using basic household items that could be quickly and easily set up.

"I was looking for a book that had activities I could do at home with him, it was really simple. I was surprised I couldn't find it anywhere," she said.

"That was when I really saw a gap for a coffee table book or reference book, where you could be guaranteed you can do the activity and set it up in a few minutes and that it would be engaging.

"It was one of those cases of, it doesn't exist and I believe in it strongly so I thought I'll do it myself."

Alice says it has been a labour of love creating the book. She tried and tested 200 or more activities with her own kids, determined to ensure that the activities met all of her criteria.

"There's so many misconceptions and

Alice with her children Emily and Tom.

pressures on modern day parents," she said.

"There's this myth that the more your child has, the better set up they are or that kids need to entertained constantly or that the best toys are the most fancy.

"Kids need to exercise their own imagination."

The beauty is in the fact that the book is a simple concept - Alice wanted to see a return to the way many of us used to engage in creative, unbridled play.

The book has become a resource for early childhood professionals and has been endorsed by Maggie Dent.

"There's quite a big market for people like my mum who have to think about entertaining grandkids," she said.

Picture: Rob Carew

"I get a lot of feedback from people that it's how they used to play when they were little - which is really lovely."

The other benefit to the book is the fact it finds ways to reuse and recycle basic items.

Alice is passionate about the fact that parents sometimes put too much pressure on themselves to get their child every toy - and so often young children end up with a room full of toys they never play with.

She believes there's a lot to be said about less is more.

Real Kids, Real Play is available in all good bookstores and online at www. realkidsrealplay.com.au

Children’s books...

Disgusting McGrossface

Whitney and Britney Chicken Divas

Pearl The Brave Unicorn

Rove McManus

Lucinda Gifford

TV personality Rove McManus has ventured into the world of children’s books and the result is a bit, well, disgusting. Rove’s story centres around a creature called Disgusting McGrossface, who reeks because he hasn’t bathed for weeks and has a collection of snot-filled tissues.

Kids will love the rhyming text in this tale that spells out all kinds of terrible hygiene habits (some of which your child may have). They will also enjoy Rove’s colourful and animated illustrations. Who knew the TV host was such a talented illustrator?

OOPS they did it again - chicks Whitney and Britney have spent another day dozing! The two glamorous chooks snooze from morning until night as they lead a fun, but tiring, secret double life. Every night they head to Club Sparkles where they perform as Whitney and Britney the Chicken Divas.

The clucky pair live with the elegant Dora von Dooze, who is totally clueless to why the two chicks spend their days dozing.

But will the chicks’ secret unravel when Dora spots some glitter on Whitney’s wing? A fun read for kids aged 3+.

Sally Odgers & Adele K Thomas

Scholastic, RRP $16.99

Scholastic, RRP $17.99

A CUTE tale about a smart unicorn discovering her magical abilities. Pearl the Unicorn and her Ogre friend, Olive, are throwing a surprise birthday party for their friend Tweet the bird. However, not all goes to plan. First Pearl’s magic delivers a wet birthday cake and froggy balloons. And then Olive is a no-show! The search for Olive takes Pearl and Tweet to places they have never been. A peanut trail leads the pair to their dear friend, who has unfortunately been abducted by gobble-uns.

Will Olive make it to the party?

Scholastic, RRP $12.99

The Odd 1s Out: How to be cool and other things I definitely learned from growing up James Rallison EVER feel like the odd one out?

Many kids do at some stage - even the ones who become famous! In this hilarious book, YouTube star James Rallison shares his stories of growing up as the ‘odd one out’. During high school, Rallison wasn’t in the cool crowd. He wasn’t partying or playing footy like his older brother. Instead, he posted comics on the web. Now Rallison is an internet sensation, with his YouTube channel ‘The Odd 1s Out’ amassing over 11 million subscribers. A funny read for tweens and teens about the trials and tribulations of growing up.

A Flair for Hair

By Bilyana & Mauro Di Costanzo A FUN book about expressing yourself through hair styles.

Each page features an amusing caricature-style illustration of an animal with it’s chosen hairdo, including a camel with buzz cut and a lion with a curling iron. This lovely children’s book is an excellent early reader for both girls and boys due to the high frequency of easy words and rhymes. A Flair for Hair is both an enjoyable and educational book for ages 3+.

New Holland Publishers support the Starlight Children’s Foundation New Holland, RRP $19.99

Scholastic, RRP $19.99 40 SUMMER 2019/2020

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Kids Calendar

What's on

this summer

DECEMBER 6

The Magic Workshop is run on 9 January for kids aged 10-12.

Sensory Art Lab: Monday 8 - Sunday 21 January, 10am - 2pm

KEW JUNCTION TWILIGHT CHRISTMAS MARKET AND FAMILY FUN NIGHT

Step behind the velvet curtain and uncover the mysteries of magic. You’ll even be given a goodie bag of tricks to take home.

Sensory Art Lab Party: Saturday 20 January, 2 - 4pm

On 10 January, join in for the Instant Rockstar workshop, suitable for children aged 8-12.

MINI MAESTROS

There will be Christmas gift stalls including Young Entrepreneur Alley, free kids rides, petting zoo, free face painting, choirs, a visit from Santa, fun with elves and more!

6pm-9pm, Fenton Avenue carpark, Kew.

Kids will learn how to compose their own piece of music from samples and make a music video.

28 JANUARY-28 MARCH

Australia’s leading music education program for children 6 months - 5 years old. Nurturing confident learners.

For term one dates, locations and more information, visit minimaestros.com.au

1 MARCH GLENFERRIE FESTIVAL 2020 One of Melbourne’s largest community festivals attracting over 100,000 people each year.

1-29 DECEMBER SANTA’S MAGICAL KINGDOM CAULFIELD RACECOURSE Now in its 8th year, this much-loved family event marks the start of the festive season for many.

Running until 29 December, Santa’s Magical Kingdom’s delightful walkthrough wonderland includes Snowland, a meeting with Santa, Gingerbread Land, a Christmas Circus Spectacular Show and unlimited rides, plus plenty more!

As always, Rudolph’s birthday will also be celebrated at Santa’s Magical Kingdom. Visit www. santasmagicalkingdom.com.au

DECEMBER 7-8, 14-15, 21-22 PHOTO TIME WITH SANTA Head on down to Tooronga Village to snap a pic with a roaming ‘Selfie’ Santa and Elf! The jolly man in red and his elf friend will be at the centre from 11am-2pm on 7-8, 14-15 and 21-22 December at Tooronga Village; allowing families to capture those special moments for free.

Tooronga Village is located at Tooronga and Toorak Roads, Glen iris 42 SUMMER 2019/2020

11 JANUARY- 8 MARCH 7 & 14 DECEMBER PHOTOS WITH SANTA, KEW JUNCTION For families and pets, all welcome at only $20 you get digital images emailed to you.

All funds raised donated to charity, e.motion21 Visit https://kewjunction.com.au/ events/photos-with-santa/ for more 10am-2pm at Kew Court House

SIMPLY SUMMER The gardens will come alive outside the Toorak/South Library with the City of Stonnington’s Simply Summer events.

There’s the signature deconstructed parade, live music, fashion parades, community stalls, amusemnt rides and more.

With more than 250 stalls, there’s foods, homemade goods and items and plenty to enjoy for the whole family 11-5pm, Glenferrie Road.

Expect live music, yoga, family storytimes, reading parties and more.

16 & 17 MARCH

To kick off the series, come along to a family storytime starrig special animal guests 2pm Saturday 11 January.

RAISING BOYS/RAISING GIRLS WITH STEVE BIDDULPH

8, 9, 10 JANUARY

SENSORY ART LAB AND PARTY, ABBOTSFORD CONVENT

Come and hear Steve’s world famous talk, covering boys of all ages. How to raise sons who are kind, confident, and safe. Boys and school, housework, so much more.

MUSIC WORKSHOPS, ARTS CENTRE

Discover new sights and sounds as you create hands-on art in our Sensory Art Lab - all for free!

On Monday 16 March 2020 at 7pm, Manningham Function Centre, Doncaster.

From discovering new things to see, hear and touch in the sensory-enabled Audible Touch Space, to creating a giant woven installation full of vibrant colours, children are invited to enjoy new experiences in a stimulating and fun ‘DIY’ atmosphere.

The following night, hear Steve’s powerful, funny and moving talk to help you raise your daughter to be wise, warm, and strong. The five stages of girlhood. The importance of dads. The special role of aunties.

The Arts Centre Melbourne has a number of workshops running for children over the school holidays.

The Australian Music Vault School Experience - Lyric Writing Music writing is suitable for children aged 10-16, running on 8 January.

This workshop takes you deep into the art of lyric writing - inspired by some of Australia’s finest lyricists!

8 -21 JANUARY

Children aged 1 - 12 years old are invited.

On Tuesday 17 March 2020 at 7pm at the same location.

Visit www.stevebiddulph.com for more. www.stonningtonboroondarakids.com.au

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