Yarra Ranges Kids Today Summer 2021

SUMMER 2021-22

Monbulk dad delivers in

DRIVEWAY BIRTH Discover the east’s

BEST SLIDES

Great prizes in our

TOY GIVEAWAY www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

AUTUMN 2021 1

Achievement starts with care.

FOR CARE, TURN TO TINTERN. VISIT TINTERN.VIC.EDU.AU TO ENQUIRE TODAY! 12518260-HC51-21

2 SUMMER 2021

www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

About Us

Summer of exploring HELLO! Welcome to the summer edition of Yarra Ranges Kids Today.

The warmer months are here and it’s time to get outside and explore the world around us.

And how great will it be after being cooped up inside for months on end. It’s time to dust off the cobwebs and enjoy the local area.

If you’ve got young kids the playground is often a go-to - it is a free activity that tires the little ones out! This edition features a list of the best slides in

Melbourne’s east and southeast, including the Yarra Ranges. So slide into summer and work your way through the list (pages 6-8) over the holidays!

For this edition, we spoke to a Woori Yallock mum who had her first baby during the pandemic and an Olinda mum who created her own skincare range after battling with acne as a teen.

We also spoke to a family who had a baby in a driveway - yes, you heard that right!

did something truly incredible - she risked dying to save the life of her young son. Her six-year-old Jake was on life support with only days left to live when she gave him a life-saving partial liver transplant. It truly is an amazing, heart-warming story.

From all of us at Yarra Ranges Kids Today, have a merry Christmas and an awesome 2022.

Happy holidays!

Yarra Ranges Kids magazine is a Mail News Group publication.

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

You’ll also enjoy reading about Melbourne mum Claire DeStratis who

Yarra Ranges Kids 244 Maroondah Highway, Healesville, Vic 3777 Phone: 5957 3700 Fax: 5957 3777

CONTENTS

Editorial

IT’S YOUR LIFE

Unique offering for girls

REALITY BITES

We’re having a Covid baby boom

PAGE 15

Mumpreneur wins gold award

PAGE 4

Extra tutoring

PAGE 25

The challenges of having your first child in a pandemic

PAGE 15

Melissa Meehan melissa.meehan@ starnewsgroup.com.au 945 0666

Why small schools are great

Mum’s business idea to help little women

PAGE 4

PAGE 16

PAGE 25

Dad delivers baby in driveway

Exceeding expectations

Bonnie makes a speedy entrance

PAGE 5

PAGE 17

PAGE 26

Slide into summer

Learning is everything

Mum helping parents with anxiety

PAGES 6-8

PAGE 17

PAGE 27

Mum’s amazing act to save her son’s life

Child care relief comes early

PAGE 9

PAGE 18

Pregnancy journey from London to Melbourne

Dads not using flexible work

The benefits of learning outdoors

PAGE 10

PAGE 19

Advertising Andy Jukes andy.jukes@ starnewsgroup.com.au 5945 0643 Published by Mail News Group Pty Ltd ACN 99 006 310 498. Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas. All material is copyright to Mail News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible.

PAGE 27 Tale of too many toys

SUMMER 2021-22

Pre-loved fashion an ethical choice

Celebrating 40 years

PAGE 28

PAGE 10

PAGE 19

BOOKS

Steve Biddulph on the big change in dads

Mindfulness and early learning

PAGE 11

Getting your child all set for prep

Kids in the Kitchen

PAGE 22

PAGE 12

For care, turn to Tintern

Are you ready to get back on the hamster wheel

PAGE 22

KIDS CALENDAR

Discover the east’s

Student support

What’s on this summer

BEST SLIDES

PAGE 23

PAGE 30

PAGE 12 Great summer toy giveaway PAGE 13

EDUCATION How to deal with school refusal PAGE 14 Schools educating students on online safety PAGE 14

yarrarangeskids.com.au www.YarraRangesKids.com.au ww w www ww w w..Y .Ya Ya Y arra rra rr raRanges Ra R Ran an ang ge ges essK e Kid Ki iid dss.c s...c com om. o m..au m .au au

PAGE 20

A ‘Wandiful’ book for kids PAGE 29 Children’s books

Monbulk dad delivers in

PAGE 29

DRIVEWAY BIRTH

Education for the future Great prizes in our

PAGE 23

TOY GIVEAWAY

ENTERTAINMENT Get creative at Robert Gordon PAGE 24 A wild ride for young viewers

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

AUTUMN 2021 1

Cover Jessica is ready for summer.

Picture: Stewart Chambers

PAGE 24

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instagram.com/yarraranges_kids SUMMER SU SSUM UMM UM MER ME ER E R2 20 2021 0 021 21 3 21

It’s Your Life

We’re having a Covid baby boom

By Melissa Meehan FERTILITY rates across Australia should drop to an all-time low of 1.59 babies per woman in 2020-21.

But a new report suggests the Covid-19 pandemic may have changed things.

In their paper Covid-19 baby boom, published in the Medical Journal of Australia, obstetric and gynaecology registrar Dr James Brown and clinical microbiologist Dr Len Moaven reviewed the use of the five Medicare item numbers for pregnancy related appointments.

In 2020, the use of those item numbers increased by up to 25 per cent in one month and 9 per cent in another.

The pair believe this reflects a significant change since the pandemic began, considering the usual fluctuation in these billing levels across the years is only around 3 per cent.

They found that the timing of an ‘apparent baby boom’ correlates with the increase in conception starting in late March to early April, during the so-called first wave of Covid-19 in Victoria.

In June Victorian Health Minister Martin Foley, answering questions in parliament over numerous anecdotal reports complied by Greens MP Ellen Sandell that the state’s maternity system was at “breaking point”, said the pressure was due, in part, to soaring birth rates.

“We are in fact at the moment going

through a massive baby boom in Victoria, at record levels, including the Royal Women’s,” Mr Foley said.

Babies born in Victoria boomed over the past year, at an average of 5.7 per cent across the state, but by as much as 50 per cent in some areas.

Those numbers have soared in regional Victoria, which may be due to an influx of Melburnians seeking a sea change or tree-change before starting a family.

Rising house prices could also play a factor.

In July the state government announced additional funding to pay for extra midwives across 38 public health services across Victoria.

“We’re in the middle of a baby Covid

boom here in Victoria... in some areas in particular, we have seen an enormous increase in numbers of babies being born,” he said.

“That has placed huge pressure on our hard-working midwifery staff.”

He said the Western District health service, based in Hamilton, had reported the 51 per cent increase.

Western Health has the highest number of births - a 13 per cent increase.

“We didn’t anticipate this baby boom, because we didn’t really anticipate the global pandemic,” Mr Foley said.

“The two seem to be directly linked.

But we welcome all the Victorian babies, and what we want to make sure is that they get the best care.”

The challenges of having your first child in a pandemic

By Melissa Meehan ANGELINE Chandler was four months pregnant with her first child when Covid-19 hit.

For her, it meant her partner Allan couldn’t be there for all the major pregnancy milestones.

The Woori Yallock resident went to appointments and scans alone.

“I think he pictured himself coming to all these appointments as well,” Angeline told Kids Today.

“Because she was our first baby and we had tried for a few years and even through IVF. “I think it was a bit hard for him.”

Luckily Allan was allowed to attend the birth – and stayed by Angeline’s side for the 16-hour labour until Talia was born.

She was also cut-off from family members who lived outside of the Yarra Valley, with the government pandemic laws blocking any travel further than five kilometres.

“That was really tough, it would have been really nice to have been able to get some help – just a couple of hours here and there from family members or friends,” she said.

But even when lockdown was over, Talia didn’t enjoy a car ride – meaning adventures far from home were not an easy feat.

And like many babies born in the middle of a pandemic – she was wary of new faces because she had hardly seen anyone but mum and dad for so long.

Talia is now 18 months old and taking the world by storm.

Council organised mums groups are often a lifeline to the outside for new mums stuck in the newborn haze.

Like many other ‘Covid babies’ she started reaching milestones quicker than normal.

However, because of the pandemic, Angeline felt as though she couldn’t really connect with other mums.

She crawled and talked a lot earlier than expected, her first word coming at four months.

The council reached out and organised an online group – but with a colicky baby, Angeline never really got the chance to sit down in front of the computer to socialise.

But there is no one else Angeline would rather have spent lockdown with Mum’s pregnancy journey from London to Melbourne: Page 27

Angeline, Allan and Talia Chandler.

4 SUMMER 2021

www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

It’s Your Life

Dotty, 2, and Layla, 3, both love their brother Finn, who was born in a driveway.

Pictures: Stewart Chambers

Dad delivers baby in driveaway

By Mikayla van Loon

Nikki said the births of her two daughters, Dotty and Layla, had been fairly straightforward and quite textbook, with no complications.

SEEING the birth of your child is perhaps one of the most incredible experiences to go through but for Monbulk father Steve McRae, he never thought he would be the one to deliver his baby boy on the side of the road.

“I had done it twice before and I think realistically we had really beautiful straightforward births with the girls so we didn’t have any reason to think that this one would be any different.”

When his wife Nikki began experiencing cramps just before midnight on 1 October, the two of them knew it wouldn’t be long before their third child was born.

But little Finn McRae wanted to make an entrance and came into the world just after 3am on 2 October.

For Steve, being able to deliver his baby boy was such a special and surreal experience.

“I had said to my husband I had a feeling that the baby might come that weekend because I was getting quite uncomfortable and I knew it was not far away,” Nikki said.

“Nikki went through something pretty rough in terms of being in the front side of the car but it was completely fine in the end and I got to completely deliver my baby boy,” he said.

Little did they know it was going to happen a lot quicker than either of them expected.

“It was amazing. I wouldn’t change it for the world now that Nikki’s completely fine and he’s completely fine. It was awesome.”

By quarter to three in the morning, Nikki had made the call to start heading to the hospital as a precaution, knowing the drive was going to take some time.

“We were actually staying at our in-laws in Silvan for the week. Of course, that’s the week I went into labour and it also meant we were a bit further away from the hospital,” Nikki said.

Getting to the end of the long driveway, Nikki knew she was close to needing to push.

“It went from me thinking I was just sort of in early labour to all of a sudden being ready for him to be born,” she said.

Making it to Monbulk and then just over the border into Kallista, Nikki told Steve to pull over wherever he could.

It was 3am and it was pouring rain but Steve pulled over into the first driveway he could, collected towels and blankets from the back of the car and called an ambulance. www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

Nikki and Steve welcomed Finn into the world a little bit differently than expected but couldn’t be happier.

“As I was coming back to the car I just heard a guy yell out and it was this Grahame fella and he just asked if we were OK,” Steve said.

“I said ‘sorry my wife’s having a baby, are you able to get some fresh towels and maybe a blanket?’ and he was like ‘you’re kidding’ and I was like ‘sorry mate, not kidding’.”

Grahame Emanuel and his wife were awoken to the surprise of a baby being born in their driveway but helped calm and encourage Nikki through the birth of her son.

“It was three o’clock in the morning and he had just woken up to a couple having a baby in his driveway so I

think the fact that even came out was amazing,” Steve said.

“I think he was a little bit panicked at the beginning and then he went around to the driver’s side and he started rubbing Nikki’s shoulder.”

Steve said having experienced the births of two children before helped him stay calm while the ambulance operator talked him through how to deliver his child.

“The more calm that I can be, the more it resonates with Nikki as well. So it’s just focusing on that and staying nice and relaxed. I don’t know what it would have been like if it was our first, probably a bit more scary,” he said.

From the moment Finn took his first breath, Nikki and Steve knew everything was going to be fine but having the reassurance from the paramedics who arrived shortly after he was born, was such a relief.

Since welcoming Finn into their lives and with quite a bit of media attention, Nikki and Steve said they have been overwhelmed with love and support from the community, something they are extremely grateful for and wanted to thank everyone who has helped in some way.

“It was really tough leading up to the birth in lockdown,” Steve said.

“If anyone has someone in our situation or is expecting and maybe has kids or something, just reach out and ask them how they are going.”

SUMMER 2021 5

It’s Your Life

Queens Park, Healesville has some great slides for younger kids.

Slide into summer Kids love to slide. They enjoy the thrill of climbing up to the top and sliding down. Summer is a great time to slide - just make sure it isn’t hot beforehand! Here, the KIDS TODAY TEAM explore some of the best slides in Melbourne’s east and southeast.

YARRA RANGES The twirly whirly slide at Lilydale Lake Playspace.

Lilydale Lake Playspace THE bright green, twirly whirly slide is hard to miss when you visit this all abilities playground. The sheer space of the area surrounding the lake makes it a great space to take the kids, especially if they love slides, swings, climbing and all things adventure.

There’s also a huge sandpit and water pad (for the warmer months).

Location: Swansea Road, Lilydale

One of the great slides at Queens Park, Healesville.

The huge tube slide at Upwey Main Street Playground.

Upwey Main Street Playground, Upwey THIS playground isn’t huge – but its slide is. And the bravery of the kids wanting to get to the large tunnel slide will have to match its size as they wrangle the

ropes course to get to the top. That aside, it’s a great playground to take the kids to while you rest after a spot of shopping along the main strip.

Location: Main Street, Upwey Queens Park, Healesville SLIDES for little kids and some for the bigger ones. This newly refurbished playground just has a wonderful vibe to it. It has so many different zones perfect for all age groups and works in with the existing trees.

It is in one of the most beautiful spots with the mountains in the distance, so while the kids are playing it give parents the chance to take a breath and enjoy the views.

Location: Don Road, Healesville

STONNINGTON AND BOROONDARA Grattan Gardens, Prahran THIS playground may not boast the biggest, scariest slides in town – but it deserves a mention because of its options for the younger kids.

There are three slides all of different heights and steepness which makes it fun for the little ones looking for some big adventure.

There are two separate areas of play and heaps of room for the kids to run around too. And we can’t forget all the wonderful cafes nearby.

Location: Grattan Street, Prahran Phoenix Park, Malvern THE brightly coloured slides at this playground really stand out against its beautiful wooden structure. Who doesn’t love a slide that winds around from top to bottom? Throw in some swings, musical charms, open space and a cafe and it’s hard to go past.

And did we mention it’s fully fenced?

Location: 22 Rob Roy Rd, Malvern East 6 SUMMER 2021

The Rocket Playground in Hawthorn.

The windy slide at Phoenix Park in Malvern.

Central Gardens Playground, Hawthorn NAME me a better rocket-themed slide in Victoria. The much-loved Rocket Playground has to be one of the best places to let the kids imaginations run wild. And while it’s due for a spruce up, the local council has promised to bring

it back to its former glory during a revamp of the playground. And it’s not just the rocket ship that is old school, throw in the merry go round, swings and spinning seats and you’ve got the afternoon covered.

Location: 30 Henry St, Hawthorn

The Grattan Gardens in Prahan is a great option for younger kids. www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

Annabel at Highgrove Outlook Park in Clyde North.

CASEY AND CARDINIA Oaks Park Playground, Clyde North This playground could very well be home to the longest tube slide in the City of Casey!

There are actually two huge tube slides that curl around a giant green and grey enclosed tower, which is the centrepiece of the park.

The popular playground also features a rock climbing wall, flying fox, climbing nets, tunnels, swings, slides, BMX and skate area, multipurpose court, a toddler area with a sandpit and shaded BBQ areas.

Location: Waterman Drive, Clyde North’s Eliston Estate Cardinia Community Adventure Playground, Pakenham A brightly-coloured enclosed sky tower with three tube slides is the main feature of this popular adventure playground.

Oaks Park Playground, Clyde North is home to possibly the biggest slide in the City of Casey.

Called ‘The Great Keep’, the tower is skinny and tall with the slides coming out at various height levels. The first slide is a pretty standard height, however the other two are pretty long!

The playground also features a big timber play area, scooter track and swings.

There’s also drinking fountains and barbecue facilities, while the toilets are a short stroll away.

Location: John Street, Pakenham Casey Fields Playground, Cranbourne East Weehee! A huge blue slide is the focal point of this adventure playground that has equipment for kids big and small.

The big curving slide is on ‘adventure hill’, which also features a bird nest swing and climbing areas.

The play space also has a pirate play structure and another playground that’s great for younger kids, climbing nets, net bridges, a liberty swing for kids who use wheelchairs, plus a village green community space.

There’s also barbecue and picnic facilities.

Sophie, Annabel and Paddy on the huge slide at Casey Fields Playground.

Pictures: Stewart Chambers www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

Sally at the bottom of the huge slide at the Encore Boulevard Playground in Cranbourne South.

Location: 60 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne East

Taylen loves the slides at the the Cardinia Community Adventure Playground in Pakenham.

Highgrove Outlook Park, Clyde North The massive tube slide at this awesome playground is sure to get your child’s adrenaline pumping.

It’s one of two slides attached to a tall grey and red rocket ship tower overlooking the park.

The smaller, but decent sized, slide allows kids to work up their courage to tackle the gigantic tube.

The playground also features a full size multipurpose court, seesaw, net swing and flying fox. While there are picnic facilities there are no toilets.

Location: Fitzwilliam Circuit, Clyde North Encore Boulevard Playground, Cranbourne South There’s a large rocket play structure with a long tube slide at this relatively new playground.

After going down the twisted slide, kids can enjoy a range of equipment including swings, wooden obstacle course, large sandpit and waterplay area.

With shaded picnic benches, BBQ facilities and toilets, kids can slide for hours!

Location: Encore Boulevard, Cranbourne South’s Brompton Estate.

More slides on page 8 SUMMER 2021 7

It’s Your Life

Harleston Park, Elsternwick boasts a gigantic slide.

The spectacular slide at Booran Reservoir Playspace, Glen Huntly.

BAYSIDE AND GLEN EIRA Caulfield Park, Caulfield North WITH three different playgrounds there is a slide for everyone here. They may not be the biggest, but the sheer variety of slides make this park a place to visit.

The three playgrounds are aimed at different groups, the younger kids, older kids and sensory play all catered for.

Location: Corner of Hawthorn and Balaclava Roads, Caulfield North Booran Reservoir Playspace, Glen Huntly LET’S just take a moment to take in exactly how big this super slide is.

Not only do kids have to climb this mammoth super structure just to get to the top but it seems to have all the pieces of a super-fast slide and twirly whirly one – in one.

Only the bravest daredevils could be expected to take on such a challenge – and believe me there were many keen to take it on. This playground has been billed as the best playground in Melbourne and it’s not difficult to see why. It’s huge. It’s got a sandpit, swings and a water pad for the warmer months.

Location: 1051 Glen Huntly Rd, Glen Huntly Harleston Park, Elsternwick A gigantic slide, with steps along the side is the perfect way to while away the spring days. And is sure to tire little legs out. There’s also an area in the sand for the smaller kids with a slide that’s sure to give parents some relief.

It’s the perfect spot to find some shade under the tree and take a minute to rest.

Or even bring a picnic.

Location: 47 Allison Rd, Elsternwick

There is a slide for everyone at Caulfield Park, Caulfield North.

KNOX AND MONASH Waverley Park Playground, Mulgrave THIS brand new playground has a giant slide.

Not only does it have the biggest slide in the area, but this playground is fully fenced and has two other slides for the little ones who might not be ready for maximum sliding. There is so much to offer at this playground, make sure you give the kids extra time to explore it all.

Location: Wellington Road, Mulgrave Scoresby Village Playground, Scoresby A whirly twirly tunnel slide is at the centre of this very new playground placed awkwardly between two car parks. It’s not fenced, which is a bit disappointing, but it’s simplistic design makes it a fun space for the kids to play.

That said, if you have more than one who tend to run in differen t directions – this park may not be for you.

Location: 752 Stud Rd, Scoresby

The twirly whirly slide at Scoresby Village Playground.

Village Square Park, Wantirna South THIS could be the fastest slide in the east. Look at the slope, the length – the fear!

Only the bravest kids will take on this bright green slide, which is seriously one of the fastest we’ve seen but there are some more relaxed slides in this playground too. Don’t forget the spiders web and a sandpit too.

The giant slide at Waverley Park Playground, Mulgrave.

8 SUMMER 2021

The cool slide at Wally Tew Reserve, Ferntree Gully.

Location: Harcrest Blvd, Wantirna South

More of the slide action at Village Square Park, Wantirna South.

Wally Tew Reserve, Ferntree Gully THIS slide is a must visit purely for its funky design – shaped like a Queensland bottle tree to match its forest floor theme it’s a beauty of a park to explore.

Don’t forget to bring the bikes or scooters too and take advantage of the bike track nearby and the library that’s only a stone’s throw away.

Location: Lyndale Ct, Ferntree Gully www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

It’s Your Life

Claire and Beau with their children Jake, Mia and Evie.

Mum’s amazing act to save her son’s life Matching scars... Claire and son Jake.

By Melissa Grant

At the RCH, Claire and her partner Beau met with transplant surgeons and Jake was put on transplant waiting lists in Australia and New Zealand.

SIX-YEAR-OLD Jake Shiels had only two days left on life support when his mum gave him an incredible life-saving gift.

Due to the urgency of the situation, both Claire and Beau underwent tests to see if it was possible one of them could donate part of their liver.

The Victorian boy was battling a mystery virus that had caused his liver to fail and he needed a transplant to have any chance of surviving.

Claire was watching her son on life support when a surgeon called to inform her she was a match.

Time was running out to find a donor when his mum, Claire DeStratis, discovered she was compatible but donating part of her liver meant risking her own life.

“The surgeons said ‘look, one in four you’re going to have a major complication and one in 200 don’t survive the surgery’,” the mum of three said.

“That was probably one of the things that scared me the most. But I knew that Jake was going to get what he needed regardless of anything that happened to me.

The following day she was admitted to the Austin Hospital for a six-hour surgery to retrieve 20 per cent of her liver. Under police escort, the partial liver was then rushed to the Royal Children’s Hospital for Jake’s 12-hour transplant surgery.

Jake spent weeks in hospital.

Medical Centre in Clayton.

The youngster’s skin had also turned yellow and blood tests revealed he had a viral hepatitis.

“He wasn’t going to get it any other way because they couldn’t find a donor and they could only keep him on life support for a maximum of five days.”

Two weeks of tests failed to uncover what exactly the virus was, but it was clear that his immune system had begun attacking his liver.

The nightmare ordeal started in February this year, less than two weeks after Jake returned to school.

“They said ‘we are going to have to transport him to the RCH (Royal Children’s Hospital) because his liver is failing. He’s going to be going to the transplant ward and he’s going to need a liver transplant’,” Claire explained.

All of a sudden the usually healthy and happy boy felt extremely ill.

“We thought he had gastro but within 24 hours of him vomiting his eyes turned yellow and I knew that wasn’t normal so I rushed him to our local GP,” Claire recalled.

Claire ended up taking Jake to the emergency department at the Monash www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

“There was no stopping the onslaught of it. There was no minimising the symptoms or anything like that, his liver was failing.

“I watched him deteriorate over 11 days… my heart was just breaking.”

Fortunately Jake responded well to the transplant, with his skin returning to a healthier colour in less than 24 hours.

The entire time, Beau was with Jake while the couple’s daughters Mia and Evie were cared for by their aunt and grandmother. Claire’s workplace rallied to raise over $17,000 while a GoFundMe raised more than $10,000 for the couple.

“Our family and friends showed such great support financially,” Claire said.

“We were able to put all our energy into Jake’s recovery and my recovery without the financial worry.”

Claire spent an entire week laying in a hospital bed wondering how her little boy was faring.

When the pair finally reunited Jake’s face lit up and he proudly pointed to the scar on his stomach.

“I said to him, ‘mum has one too honey’,” Claire said.

Claire has recovered well and it is believed her liver has regrown and returned to its pre-surgery size.

Jake had some complications following his life-saving surgery - his lung collapsed and a blood clot that formed on his liver had to be removed.

After the transplant, it was discovered that Jake’s mystery illness was slapped cheek, a virus he previously caught and fought off but had caused an immune response so heightened it attacked the liver.

Jake will take immunosuppressive medication for the rest of his life and is on a low-fat diet to ensure his liver isn’t under undue pressure.

Apart from that it’s been pretty smooth sailing post-surgery for Jake, who celebrated his 7th birthday in October.

“You look at him today and you wouldn’t even think he has had an organ transplant,” Claire said.

“He is such a good kid and he is such a fighter. Even four of five days after the transplant he was trying to get up and walk… he just took it all in his stride.”

Claire is eternally grateful to the talented surgeons who performed the life saving transplant surgeries.

“Without them and the knowledge they have we wouldn’t be where we are today.

“Jake was operated on for 12 hours, I was operated on for six hours - that’s incredible.

“I can’t thank them enough.”

To register to become an organ and tissue donor, visit donatelife.gov.au SUMMER 2021 9

It’s Your Life

Dads not using flexible work WORKPLACE culture and masculine norms are preventing dads from asking for flexible working hours including paid parental leave, new research suggests.

University of South Australia researcher Dr Ashlee Borgkvist has investigated barriers and facilitators for men to access and use flexible work arrangements.

She found that many fathers felt pressure from their organisations not to use flexibility for family reasons, with this sentiment also echoed across societal norms.

Australia has one of the lowest rates of fathers taking paid parental leave.

Dr Borgkvist says the low uptake of formal flexible working arrangements

by Australian fathers is primarily due to a perceived, and quite often objective, lack of support from workplace managers and colleagues.

“Workplace flexibility is typically accepted as an option for mothers, but when it comes to dads, flexibility is unlikely to be as readily accepted – and in some cases not even considered,” she said.

“Workplace and societal norms play a big role in the lack of flexibility for

dads, with many men feeling pressure to conform to stereotypical concepts of the male ‘breadwinner’.”

Dr Borgkvist said while Australia’s national Paid Parental Leave scheme is gender neutral, the stigma of asking for flexibility, along with the need for mothers to utilise the whole Paid Parental Leave period, is limiting its uptake by dads.

“One father I spoke to said he’d stepped back from visiting schools with his wife and child because he felt he’d taken too much time off; another father said he wouldn’t ask for flexibility because he didn’t ‘want to be seen as ‘someone who tries to get out of doing work’.

“So, while the desire and need for flexible work hours is there, it’s being squashed by restrictive workplace cultures. As you can imagine, these ideas around flexible work also have impacts for how women who use flexibility are perceived within workplaces.”

“Evidence shows that when fathers are provided with well-compensated, targeted and extended parental leave, they are very likely to take it.”

Pre-loved fashion an ethical choice WITH six tonnes of textiles and clothing going to landfill in Australia every 10 minutes, retailers offering pre-loved and recycled goods have never been more vital.

Tucked in amongst the trees in the heart of Mount Evelyn, Pipsqueakz Recycle has the local community covered.

There’s a growing demand for recycled goods as people continue to recognise the financial and ethical benefits of pre-loved rather than new.

It’s something the local Mount Evelyn community has been embracing since Pipsqueakz Recycle opened in 2000.

The store has been offering recycled (and new!) baby and children’s clothes, toys and other products for over 20 years, catering from newborn through to 12 years old.

Some of the wide variety of pre-loved clothes.

“It’s a real community,” Rachel, the owner of Pipsqueakz Recycle says.

“It’s a very family oriented place.

Everyone talks, everyone’s happy and it’s very laid-back.”

regular haunt of many local parents, who take advantage of the thousands of goods on offer as well as trading in and picking up items as their children grow.

Pipsqueakz also offers a consignment service, where goods are priced and sold on behalf of clients. Rachel notes that the store is a

Pipsqueakz Recycle is worth a visit, whether you’re local or from further afield. https://www.pipsqueakz.com/

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10 SUMMER 2021

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It’s Your Life

A big change in our dads Parents have realised that children struggle with their ‘big feelings’.

gyprock, or walk out and get drunk, or be abusive or horrible to a partner just trying to help. Plenty of readers will have partners who still struggle to be vulnerable and communicate, instead of merely reacting. So we have to urgently help our kids learn these skills.

Parenthood - especially for fathers used to be all about ‘control’.

But a new generation is learning it is really about connection, writes STEVE BIDDULPH SOCIAL media is a great gift, for someone like me who lives on an island and is also quite shy. And now I have stopped my life of touring and doing shows for parents around the world, it can be a warm-hearted connection to folks who read my books. These mums and dads are enthusiasts for parenthood and family who think love matters more than fashion, say, or material possessions or ‘success’.

I’ve avoided Instagram or Twitter, but manage two Facebook communities, one for parents of boys, and one for girls - and they are full of life and heart, they really keep me going. I dip into Facebook cautiously, aware it can be like a bush track which you can easily slip off and go careening down through prickly scrub to a rocky landing!

Often my Facebook feed sends me posts from a rather heart-rending page called Dadventure, where mostly American fathers seek help and emotional support from each other as they struggle with the many challenges

of kids’ health, behaviour, as well as marriage strife, and making a living while still being a good dad.

It’s such a window into the world of dads, both heart rending and inspiring in about equal amounts. And there is something very striking that you can’t miss, a kind of watershed moment happening in fatherhood. The old giving way to the new.

Whenever someone posts a question about kids’ misbehaviour, the old guard are there weighing in with things like ‘kids have to know who is the boss’ and ‘my old man taught us respect with his belt, and it worked for me’. I used to work with those dads when I was a family therapist, as they gradually admitted that, well, in fact they hated their dads for most of their childhoods and were noticing that their kids were starting to hate them too. There is a whole skip bin full of denial inside a great many men, and they are almost

buried under it, but one day they do get out.

But most heartening is the number of commenters who have made a very big fundamental shift to realise that parenthood is not about control. It’s not about dominating kids into behaving well by yelling, threatening, hitting or contriving punishments - at least, not as the first line of defence. It’s been one of the greatest leaps forwards in parenthood that we have realised that children struggle with their ‘big feelings’ and our job is to help them find a way through the frustrations, negotiations, and griefs and fears which every childhood brings, so they can give space to their emotions but express them in words, and not in actions that might hurt those around them or themselves.

Plenty of adults in our generation knew no other way to express their grief or fear than to punch a hole in the

When our four-year-old or six-year-old goes into a meltdown or misbehaves terribly it takes incredible grace to not just lose it, or yell at them or go all cold and rejecting, but instead to calm ourselves, really connect with them and reassure them that we love them, and we want to help. But I see this all the time now in parks and shopping malls, and the homes of young friends and family. A child struggling - and a mum, or dad, crouching down, or sitting with them and talking it through. If they will allow it, holding them close. And seeing that child’s feelings subside, and happiness be restored.

It doesn’t mean mollycoddling kids or giving them everything they want, or letting them call the shots. It’s still okay to say, “I am getting cold and bored now, and I want to go home” when they’ve been almost an hour at a freezing playground! Your feelings count too. But being a parent who is committed to teaching their kids - at the peak of their misbehaviour - that we can all find a way through our feelings, is worth more than gold. Who wouldn’t love to have a parent like that?

Visit Steve on Facebook at Steve Biddulph’s Raising Boys, and Steve Biddulph’s Raising Girls communities.

Steve’s books including Raising Boys, The New Manhood, and Fully Human - are in over a million Australian homes. www.stevebiddulph.com

Teens and stress SCHOOLWORK is the number one cause of stress and worry among Aussie teens, according to a new report.

Alarmingly the report also reveals that many don’t talk to anyone when they are struggling.

The 2021 MyStrengths Youth Wellbeing Report surveyed nearly 10,000 high school students aged 11-18 years to understand how stress, sleep, social media, and relationships are impacting teen mental health.

The report found 66 per cent of teens felt stressed about their schoolwork and 42 per cent cited it as their biggest worry.

Other causes of stress included: ■ Feeling anxious about what might happen (41 per cent) ■ Self-esteem/feeling low (35 per cent) ■ Friend problems (27 per cent) ■ Family difficulties (27 per cent).

The report found that many teens weren’t seeking help - professional or otherwise. One in three students (32 per cent) don’t talk to anyone when they are struggling. Teens who do reach out are more likely to turn to a friend (45 per cent) than a parent.

However, 62 per cent said they feel understood by their parents.

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SUMMER 2021 11

It’s Your Life

The finished product.

Herb and feta quinoa patties Makes: 20 Prep time: 10 mins + 1 hour Cook time: 20 mins Ingredients: ■ 2 ½ cups pre-cooked quinoa ■ ½ cup rolled oats ■ 4 free range eggs ■ 180g feta cheese Lucy Stewart in the kitchen with her son Otis.

Pictures: Studio 74 Photography

■ 4 shallots ■ 1 cup chopped fresh herbs – parsley, dill and mint work well

Kid-friendly patties DID you know herbs can pack in just as much nutrition as vegetables? Just like green leafy vegetables, fresh herbs are a good source of vitamins A, C and K and contain polyphenols – powerful plant compounds that have both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Herbs are also alkalising and help support the bodies natural detoxification processes.

Growing herbs is a great way to help kids understand where their food comes from and research shows that children who are involved in the preparation of their food – especially vegetables – develop a more positive attitude

i th in the kitchen with Lucy Stewart

towards, and preferences for, those foods. You don’t need a big garden to grow them in either, just a few pots on the window sill will do.

Some of my favourite herbs for kids to grow include: mint, basil, dill, chives and parsley. Their fragrance and mild versatile flavours mean kids can happily pick, smell and eat the leaves raw or sprinkle them over some of their favourite dishes - even just a small amount goes a long way to giving them a nutritional boost.

These little herb and feta quinoa patties are full of freshness and make a great lunchbox addition or vegetarian burger option. Quinoa is high in protein and fibre, two important nutrients that work to keep kids tummies feeling fuller for longer and their energy levels stable.

■ Zest of half a lemon ■ Olive oil for frying Instructions: 1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, oats, eggs, feta cheese, chopped herbs, shallots and lemon zest and mix together until everything is well combined. Place in the fridge to set for one hour.

2. Using a tablespoon of mixture, form 20 small patties with your hands.

3. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over a medium heat. Add the patties and fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

4. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to five days.

Lucy Stewart is a mum who is nutritionist specialising in babies and kids health, and a recipe developer.

You can find more of her recipes at https://lucystewartnutrition.com

Are you ready to get back on the hamster wheel?

By Julie Cliff - professional organiser

IF you’re a working mum in Melbourne there is no doubt you have been juggling a lot of things during the various lockdowns over the past 18 months: remote learning, your own paid work, keeping everyone fed, bathed and clothed. It’s a lot to do in the confines of your own home with very little outside help.

As we venture out again, I ask you to think about how you are spending your time now and take stock. By taking stock of where you are at and keeping one eye on the future (where you’d like to get to), you can start to put things in place to organise the life you want.

Take stock of the things you are juggling.

12 SUMMER 2021

As you go through each day, take stock of all the things you’re juggling.

■ How many hours are you working each week and how much ‘me time’ are you scheduling?

■ Are you spending time on meal planning?

■ How much exercise are you squeezing in each day?

■ Who’s doing the home chores and when are they done?

Plan now for the future Are you ready to get back on the hamster wheel? Do you want things to go back to ‘normal’ and run around like a headless chook or do you want to make some changes?

Now is an amazing opportunity for you to organise the life you want. With a clear picture of how you want your future to look, you can make a plan with systems and processes to support your ‘new’ future.

■ Want to work shorter hours? Do you need to work smarter or be clearer on

your tasks and priorities and leave the office on time? Or do you need to get a new job?

■ Want to work more from home?

■ Want to eat healthier food by creating a set of four to six weekly meal plans?

■ Want to spend more time with specific people?

Get it in the diary.

■ Want to get the family involved in running the household? Say no when someone tells you it’s your job. Have a detailed discussion now about who does what.

What next?

Among all your juggling now, have one eye on the future. Start to create the systems around you at home to support the life you want to live.

Now is a great time to take stock of your life before getting back on the hamster wheel.

Need help?

Julie Cliff is a professional organiser at Space and Time which helps busy working mothers live easier, far less stressful lives through simple, easy to implement organising systems to clear the clutter - both mentally and physically. Sound familiar?

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

It’s Your Life

Great summer toy giveaway KIDS Today magazines have teamed up with some great brands to give away a heap of cool toys this summer.

A Wahu pack valued at $139.92 which includes:

To put yourself in the running to win one - or all - of the prizes, visit www. yarrarangeskids.com.au/competitions

■ Wahu Mega Slide 7.5m, RRP $59.99: Kids will love racing down this massive 7.5m super slide. The continuous water spray means you’ll be zooming down the slide and into the plash bumper in no time! Ages 6+

Hurry! Entries close 2 February. Here’s what you can win...

VTech pack valued at $224.80 which includes: ■ Play & Chase Puppy, RRP $49.95: Get playtime on a roll with the interactive Play & Chase Puppy. More than 65 songs, melodies, sounds and phrases help children learn vocabulary words along with lively tunes. Ages 12 months - 3 years.

for an added challenge. Can also be filled with water in its’ base to play on land too! Ages 6+

■ Wahu Hole in Won, RRP $24.95: This inflatable game set includes 1 Hole in Won game board plus 4 sandbags. The waterproof PVC base floats and moves in the water

■ Surfer Dudes Classic, RRP $29.99: Surfer Dudes are the world’s first self-righting, self-surfing toy! Toss your dudes into the surf. They’ll catch and shred the waves, throwing down rippin’ tricks all the way back to you! Ages 6+

■ Blue’s Clues & You Mail Time with Mailbox, RRP $39: Drop the letters in Mailbox and raise his flag to hear phrases from the show. Listen as Mailbox delivers each letter featuring a special message.

Just Play Christmas Pack, valued at $183.99 which includes: ■ Barbie Fashionistas Styling Head, RRP $20: Barbie’s thick flowing hair is perfect for brushing, twisting, and pinning into chic styles! Use the barrettes and hair ties for a fancy up-do; use the brush and hair twists for a sleek top bun!

■ Toot-Toot Friends 2-in-1 Dinosaur Park, RRP $89.95: Get ready for a Dinosaur adventure in this truck which opens up into an amazing Dinosaur Park. Explore the park with the Park Ranger and interact with the dinosaurs.

Place characters onto the MagicPoint location to see them respond with fun phrases, sing-along songs, lively sounds and more. Ages 1-5 years.

■ Disney Doorables Puffables, RRP $20: Discover this fun unboxing experience which includes a 10-inch squishable plush Stitch, Frozen or Mickey Mouse plush hidden inside a tiny house with characters featuring signature Doorables stylised detailing and sparkly glitter eyes.

■ Disney Junior Minnie Mouse Ring Me Rotary Phone, RRP $24.99: This vibrant pink phone has a glitter bow and features adorable Minnie Mouse phrases, realistic telephone sounds and fun light up effects!

■ Disney Doorables Multi Peek Pack x2, RRP $15ea: Discover the Magic Key to reveal a secret image behind the door. Use the key to search and find how many Hidden Mickeys are in the image!

■ Play & Go Puppy Salon, RRP $49.95: Open the pet carrier to groom your pup. Lights and sound effects enrich playtime as you pretend to wash, comb, dry and clip this soft pup. Ages 2-5 years.

■ Switch & Go Dinos Smash & Crash Crew, RRP $34.95: Stomp into the cool, crazy world of prehistoric creatures that turn into vehicles with the Smash & Crash Crew! Crash the Switch & Go Dinos into another one to see them explode with smash-andcrash light effects. Ages 3-8 years.

www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

■ Wahu Pool Pets Croc, RRP $24.99: Kids will love these awesome new inflatable pool racers in bright funky Wahu colours. Perfect for racing up and down the pool or try and balance on them.

■ CoComelon Stacking Train, RRP $50: Children can get their numbers, shapes, and colours right on track with the CoComelon Stacking Train. Each big, colourful block features numbers 0-9. Use the blocks to build a train with this 40-piece construction set.

Spark curiosity and get kids ‘zooming’ in on nature (think leaves, flowers, feathers and insects) with this super portable, hand-held microscope.

Osmo Math Wizard and the Fantastic Food Truck valued at $99.99 The newest release from STEAM toy experts Osmo, this is a geometry-focused game that introduces kids to core maths concepts like angles, area and volume. Combining digital gameplay with active, hands-on learning, Osmo’s Math Wizard helps children build confidence in their maths skills through imagination, reasoning and exploration. Players become chefs who use kitchen appliances and a dash of magic to customize dishes, from pizza to sushi, sandwiches, pastries and more!

■ Paper Binoculars - Bird Spotter, RRP $12: Make your own set of paper binoculars, then head outside for all manner of feathered discoveries in the backyard or local park.

Tiger Tribe Nature Explorer Activity Pack valued at $100 ■ Outdoor Activity Set - Back to Nature, RRP $25: Jam packed with engaging activities, hands-on projects, a handy magnifying glass, coloured chalk and notetaking pencil, this kit encourages observation and interaction with nature.

■ Explorer Microscope Set, RRP $35:

■ Bug Spotter Kit, RRP $13: Designed to safely catch and release garden creepy crawlies (and observe them up close with the magnifying lid), this kit comes with an illustrated activity book providing bug tips and best places to spot.

■ Magic Painting World - Aussie Animals, RRP $15: Use the magic paintbrush to discover a bunch of cute Aussie animals. Simply add water to bring them to life with every brush-stroke.

Products are part of Tiger Tribe’s charity partnership with the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife (FNPW).

SUMMER 2021 13

Education

Young people experiencing school refusal can struggle to get out of bed.

How to deal with school refusal

By Melissa Grant

She says there are usually warning signs for parents.

FOR most kids, getting to school each day is pretty uncomplicated. They have breakfast, brush their teeth, put on their uniform and go.

“Often you’ll hear things like ‘I don’t feel well today’, ‘I have a headache or a stomach ache, I don’t think I can face it’.

Generally the symptoms subside if they don’t have to go to school,” she said.

However some students find attending school difficult and struggle with what’s called ‘school refusal’.

In its simplest form, school refusal is when a student can’t go to school. They don’t want to be there and will show features of emotional distress such as headaches or stomach aches.

Prolonged lockdowns in Victoria have led to more families experiencing school refusal.

Before the pandemic, an estimated 2-5 per cent of students were school refusing. It’s estimated those rates tripled when school returned between lockdowns.

Education expert Dr Lisa McKayBrown says school refusal can happen at any point, but can be linked to periods of transition. It also seems to be more prevalent between Years 5 and 9.

This is because of shifts in friendship groups and increased challenges of schooling at this time, according to Dr McKay-Brown who is part of the learning intervention team at Melbourne University.

experience that the feelings of anxiety and worry when they had to go to school lessened.”

She said parents and schools had to be careful when considering remote learning or home schooling as a solution to school refusal.

She said children may also negotiate about going to school by asking to be picked up early, or struggle to get out of bed, the house or the car.

“Anecdotally we find that young people who are school refusing are less likely to engage in those types of learning situations,” she said.

The return of school after the weekend or holidays can also be particularly challenging, with children becoming clingy or tearful.

It’s important to address school refusal. In the short-term, school refusal can impact on a young person’s education, learning and peer relationships. Leaving school altogether can have long-term impacts as the young person won’t achieve their educational potential. Any mental health issues that aren’t address can have impacts into adulthood.”

In these situations, Dr McKay-Brown said it was important to note that school refusal might just be one of the things going on.

“Research shows around 50 per cent of children presenting with school refusal have a mental health disorder,” she said.

Dr McKay-Brown said while there is anecdotal evidence that school refusal rates had tripled since the pandemic, more research is taking place.

“It’s been a time of high stress,” she explained.

“I think some people who may have been at risk of school refusal before the remote learning experience, for them it (remote learning) became an

So what can you do if your child is school refusing?

Dr McKay-Brown suggests the following: ■ Have conversations with your child to get a better sense of what is happening. Ask questions like ‘how are you feeling about school?’ and ‘are there some things that are difficult for you at school?’

■ Communicate with your child’s school. You don’t want absences to continue so let the school know what’s happening and ask them if

they have any support or advice ■ School relationships. Relationships are important when returning to school.

What check-ins can be organised? Is there a way of having peer connections maintained?

■ Seek professional support. A GP is your first point of call. They will determine if there needs to be some kind of mental health referral.

Starting this process is important given the long wait times to see mental health professionals.

■ Maintain school routines. If you are at home it’s important to maintain the routine of a school day. Get your child out of bed, get them sitting at the table when it’s class time and keep them from more pleasurable activities such as gaming. If you are going to go for a walk do it in recess time.

■ Self-care. Parents need to think about their own self-care. They may need to seek support and family counselling can be helpful as school refusal is something that can impact the family unit.

The good news is that with the right support, young people who are school refusing can return to the classroom.

“It’s not forever - we know we can get young people back to school, it just takes time and it takes working on it,” Dr McKay-Brown said.

Schools educating students on online safety ALMOST a third of all Australian schools are using quality online safety education providers endorsed by the federal online safety regulator.

It’s an encouraging statistic given reports of cyberbullying continue to surge during the pandemic.

The Trusted eSafety Provider program, which is run by the eSafety Commissioner, helps schools find providers of evidence-based and curriculum-aligned online safety education programs. eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said lockdowns and the pandemic have led Australian children to spend more time online than ever before.

14 SUMMER 2021

“As many Australians are forced online for their work and education during the pandemic, eSafety has seen a rise in reports about cyberbullying and other online harms,” Ms Inman Grant said.

“Research released earlier this year found that 44 per cent of teens had a negative online experience in the six months to September 2020.

Additionally, 3 in 10 children had been contacted by a stranger online.”

Ms Inman Grant said it is vital that schools teach their students how to stay safe with online strategies. These strategies include being an ‘upstander’ when they see bullying online and knowing how to seek help when

something doesn’t feel right.

“Providers endorsed by the Trusted eSafety Provider program can work with schools to educate students about these topics,” she said.

Ms Inman Grant said it was pleasing to see Australian schools take a huge interest in the educational programs, which have the the eSafety tick of approval.

“In the last financial year, 2772 schools - or about 29 per cent of all Australian schools - had at least one session from a Trusted eSafety Provider,” she said.

“The majority of the participants in the programs have been students but

parents and teachers have also taken part in the programs to learn about such topics as cyberbullying, imagebased abuse, and respectful online relationships.”

The eSafety Commissioner works with the providers to ensure they are up-todate with the latest online safety research, trends and practices.

There are currently 37 Trusted eSafety Providers offering a diverse range of services across each state and territory with at least 30 delivering programs online.

More details about the eSafety’s Trusted eSafety Provider program, including a list of providers, is available on the eSafety website. www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

Education

Unique offering for girls SET in the hills of beautiful Belgrave, the heart of Wurundjeri Country, Mater Christi offers something quite unique to girls in the outer east of Melbourne.

Tutor program to continue

The College was established by the Good Samaritan Sisters in 1963, which makes it quite young as far as girls’ schools go.

Mater Christi celebrates what it means to be a girl in a changing world.

The College aspires to educate girls who can take their place in the affairs of society, are not limited by stereotypes and can be true to who they are.

Mater Christi’s motto consists of three words – Informed… Compassionate…

Creative… These words capture the dreams for each and every young person who walks through the school’s doors.

Whatever her pathway, each student will have opportunities to explore her interests and talents, to learn about herself and the world, and to find a place to belong.

Mater Christi has a proactive approach to wellbeing by including social-emotional learning as part of the learning program. Their curriculum is based on the Middle Years Program of

Mater Christi offers something quite unique to girls in Melbourne’s outer east.

the International Baccalaureate, an internationally recognised framework which caters for a range of learning needs, offering support and challenge where required. The VCE program is rich and students’ results are a testament to the professionalism and expertise of their teachers.

A girls’ school provides a safe environment to explore identity in the midst of a caring, forward thinking, service-oriented community. Meaningmaking, Learning, Wellbeing and Enrichment are the pillars on which Mater Christi builds this educational community, and they invite you to join them.

IN an attempt to ensure no student is left behind in the wake of the pandemic, the state government tutoring program will continue into 2022.

Minister for Education James Merlino announced $230.4 million in funding to allow Victorian schools to retain the tutors that have supported students throughout 2021.

The tutor program has called on teachers on leave, retired teachers and casual relief teachers to sign up and get back in the classroom – with at least one tutor in all government schools to ensure every Victorian child comes out of the pandemic with the confidence that their learning is on track.

While the past two years have seen some students thrive with the flexibility and self-direction remote learning gave them, for others this period has

been profoundly difficult – and the tutors have worked both in the classroom and through remote learning to identify and support the students who needed extra help with their learning.

Students who struggled most during the pandemic included those with low levels of English, those already at risk of disengaging from school, or those with home environments not conducive to online learning.

Tutors work in small groups to provide tailored support for identified students who need assistance to catch up, regardless of their circumstances or background.

The extra support for onsite tutors in 2022 will also ensure teaching teams can continue to provide dedicated and individualised support for students who need help.

Informed Compassionate Creative

APPLY NOW

for 2023 & 2024 BOOK NOW via website College Tours & Online Conversation

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L I M I T E D PL AC E S

Each girl learns to become her best self; a global thinker who is competent, confident and ready to live life to the full. Excellence in all-girls education.

Enquire about our charter bus services

28 Bayview Road, Belgrave • 9754 6611 • materchristi.edu.au www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

SUMMER 2021 15

Education

Village School has a small student population.

Why small schools are great VILLAGE thinks of its small student population as an extended family and this flows through to the parents who enjoy being part of a small like-minded community. In normal times (sans Covid!) children and parents gather to talk and play after school, arranging play dates and sharing child minding or lifts to and from school.

A small school needs less school rules

as many rules are born out of the need to manage large groups of people. The children are often the instigators of the rules, particularly as they relate to cubby building, and the Year 6 group keep the Cubby Rules Law Book and refer to or amend it as needs be at whole school meetings.

Are all your friends the same age as you? In a small school you see much more vertical play across the grade levels. The big friend/little friend

program also means you might spot a Year 6 boy playing in the sandpit with his little friend, or helping him transport a bucket of water to the mud pit. And then there’s the cry that sometimes arises out of nowhere: “Whole School Tiggy! Whole School Tiggy” and suddenly there is a rush to the meeting place to discover who is it and the game begins. Sometimes it’s Capture the Flag, or else it’s a game of soccer, but it’s always the same, everyone is invited to join in.

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The small school has a direct effect on the behaviour and the learning of each child. They are part of a

community where everybody knows their name. When they take some of their class work to share at the whole school meeting, the Year 6 chairperson will address them as an individual, people will comment on or ask questions about their work and they will be given the space to explain how they made their model, or to read part of their story. With a small school there’s time to hear from everybody.

16 SUMMER 2021

www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

Education

Yarra Valley Grammar’s educational programs were assessed as being exceptional.

Exceeding expectations YARRA Valley Grammar’s Early Learning Centre has been rated Exceeding National Quality Standard under the National Quality Framework by the Victorian Department of Education and Training.

sets a national benchmark for the quality of children’s education and care services across Australia. Services are assessed against the NQS and receive a rating for each of the seven quality areas of the NQS, plus an overall rating.

ELC students learn in a purpose-built centre and also have full use of the School’s other magnificent facilities, Sports Complex, Music School, Performing Arts Centre and Resource Centre (library). Full and part-time programs are available for both three and four-year-olds.

A rating of Exceeding NQS is given to services that go above and beyond the requirements in at least four of the seven quality services. The ELC was deemed Exceeding in all seven areas.

The National Quality Standard (NQS)

Our educational programs were assessed as being exceptional. The quality of relationships between the teachers and each child lays the

foundation for integrating their interests and abilities into planned and spontaneous learning experiences. The ELC teachers collaborate with our Junior School colleagues who enrich the learning outcomes for the children through specialist classes in Music, Physical Education; including a swimming program and weekly visits to the school library. These programs contribute to a continuum of learning and skill development and are specifically offered to advance school readiness and a seamless transition to school.

Our Exceeding rating assessed against national benchmark qualities is testimony to the excellent programs, facilities and education we offer at Yarra Valley Grammar. Our skilled and passionate educators share a vision and approach to early childhood teaching and foster a holistic approach to curriculum decision making for every child.

Mrs Nicky Callow Director of Early Learning Centre Yarra Valley Grammar

Learning is everything CHOKLITS believes learning is everywhere.

Our children are our future, Choklits believes in every one of them and believes they all deserve the best possible start in life.

When a child attends Choklits they get that start, they get the opportunity to flourish, to meet new friends and develop a lifelong love of learning. And, they get to have fun in one of the biggest backyards in Melbourne!

In addition to the early year’s framework, the curriculum that every early learning centre must deliver, Choklits does things really big.

Choklits Activate runs every Monday and Friday by specialist teachers who introduce and encourage all our early learners to get active and learn the joy of health and movement.

Each week the Choklits kindergarten class heads off to the library to read, learn, borrow, and return books.

Choklits understands the importance of a strong educational foundation. They introduce children www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

Choklits understands the importance of a strong educational foundation.

to social, emotional, and academic skills and concepts that they can carry with them to school and beyond.

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Their plant-to-plate program has early learners growing their own food and a chef prepares all meals on site under the no packet no sugar policy.

Weekly incursions include yoga, music and a physical education program called Choklits Activate.

Choklits encourages children to develop a lifelong love of learning, participating in a range of educatorled and play-based learning programs and activities. Children are invited to ask questions, practise problem-solving skills, and discover the world around them.

See all they get up to at www.choklits.com.au

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Education

Child care fee relief comes early

By Melissa Grant FAMILIES with two or more kids in child care will get fee relief earlier than expected.

Child care subsidies for second and subsequent children will be increased to as high as 95 per cent from 7 March, four months before what was promised.

A family earning $110,000 a year with two kids in care, four days a week, for example, will be better off by around $100 each week.

The annual $10,655 Child Care Subsidy (CCS) cap will also be scrapped on 10 December and applied retrospectively for the current financial year.

This means families earning more than $190,015 a year will no longer have to worry about paying full fees when their cap for each child runs out.

Education Minister Alan Tudge said the changes would ease pressure on working families and encourage more parents into work.

The changes were due to start on 11 July 2022, but the federal government says the necessary technical changes will be completed sooner.

“Removing the cap and increasing subsidies means more parents, particularly mothers, can return to work or take on more hours if they choose to,” he said.

Families with two or more children aged five years and under in care will have their CCS rate increased by 30 per cent for their second child and any younger children, up to a maximum rate of 95 per cent.

It’s estimated the overhaul will benefit 250,000 families, with the average saving $2200 a year on child care fees.

“Importantly, our support is targeted to those who need it most. We are reducing the out-of-pocket child care costs which really add up when you have two, three or more children in care.”

The child care fee relief will be delivered in time for the federal

election, which must be held by 21 May next year.

While Mr Tudge has insisted the government would bring forward the changes if possible, Labor claims the move is political.

Labor’s early childhood education spokesperson Amanda Rishworth said the policy was a “dud” and that Labor had a better plan for child care that would benefit 750,000 families.

“Labor’s plan that really is a wholesale reform, helping 97 per cent of families, and the Liberal Party’s plan that really only helps a minority for that short time when families have two or three children in care,” she said.

OPEN NOW for 2022 ENROLMENTS

Offering full time and part time care and education for children from 0-6 years. We have an integrated 4 year old kindergarten program focusing on school readiness.

Our highly trained and qualified educators empower our children to develop enquiring minds and experiment in a trusting setting.

Proudly, all our centres have been assessed as ‘Exceeding’ the National Quality Standards Croydon 12-50 Norton Road Croydon T: 9725 4189 E: croydon@swincc.vic.edu.au

View Street 22-24 View Street Croydon T: 9723 2470 E: view@swincc.vic.edu.au

OUR PROMISES TO YOU Ź Safety and Security Ź Highest Level of Care Ź Successful and Capable Learning Ź Quality Educators Ź Equality, Inclusion and Diversity Ź Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures Valued Ź Parents and Families Are Respected Wantirna 369 Stud Road Wantirna T: 9887 1564 E: wantirna@swincc.vic.edu.au

Lilydale 435-437 Maroondah Highway Lilydale T: 9070 1159 E: lilydale@swincc.vic.edu.au

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With Reggio Emilia inspired learning environments we offer a diverse range of indigenous cultural influences and many community programs for children and families.

www.swinburnechildrenscentre.com.au 18 SUMMER 2021

www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

Education

Celebrating 40 years

The benefits of learning outdoors

GHILGAI is a small Primary Steiner School in Kilsyth that is inching towards its 40th birthday.

Playgroups provide a rich foundation for little children and for families.

DISCOVERY Childcare and Education embraces the Danish Forest School practice of friluftsliv which means ‘outdoor life’.

Francis Edmunds put the potential of Steiner Education in a nutshell.

The teachers at Ghilgai have immersed themselves in this philosophy and day by day it comes alive as they work creatively and joyously with the children in their care.

Their Foundation Year is just that – a rich foundation for Class 1. It is a safe, encouraging environment that fosters deep play. Natural objects like shells and stones and lots of open-ended materials promote creativity. A block of wood can be a loaf of bread or an oven, even a source of magic. Via deep play the child develops vital capacities – cooperation, concentration, resilience, empathy, flexibility. In play he is able to practise self-reliance and purposefulness. Deep Play fosters confidence.

In no time today’s children will become adults.

A strong moral inner core, a love for

The creative mind plays with ideas and follows them through to innovation.

earth and for its people, a deep and versatile creativity – these are the attributes our children need to acquire in order to take their place in the world as well balanced adults.

The moral mind is sensitive to the needs of others, it negotiates creatively.

It works harmoniously in social fields and builds community. It protects the natural world.

Rudolf Steiner’s method of education is a gift to the child – and to the world.

Ghilgai is glad to be a part of the worldwide web of Steiner Schools.

No matter the season, with appropriate clothing, children of every age enjoy regular outdoor recreation.

By encouraging children to experience fresh air and sunshine, they are more relaxed, can focus better and are happier and healthier both physically and mentally. Nature provides a learning environment that can’t be replicated on an iPad screen and Discovery Childcare and Education takes a hands-on approach!

The centre has been built to embrace friluftsliv with features including: ■ Water play tables, dancing water jets and an outdoor bicycle riding track complete with rainbow hoops that spray a fine water mist on warmer days ■ A rocky mountain to challenge

children and educate them about risk in an appropriate setting. When they climb to the top, they can say hello to giant dinosaur, Fletcher!

■ A quiet Aboriginal cultural area where students engage in outdoor cooking over an open fire.

Naturally, Discovery Childcare and Education offers free Hey Dee Ho and Soccerjoeys incursions and also provides older children with excursions to the local park to have picnics and explore. The youngest children are frequently taken on community outings in the centre’s 8-seater pram.

No one misses out on the fun and benefits of experiencing the outdoors!

If you’d like more information or a relaxed, obligation-free tour at our Croydon or Boronia services, please contact Malini or Jamie today on: 9722 8933 croydon@discoverychildcare.com.au www.discoverychildcare.com.au

Ghilgai School State of the art facilities, experienced Educators, two-year Kindergarten program and free ongoing Hey Dee Ho and Soccerjoeys classes.

Scholarship – entry Class 1 2022 (Fee free place Cl 1 to 6) Enquire about a Tour: Ph: 9761 8369

www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

8, 10 and 12 hour days available to ensure you obtain the maximum benefit from your Childcare Subsidy.

Email: croydon@discoverychildcare.com.au • Phone: 9722 8933 50 Maroondah Hwy, Croydon - 6:30am to 6:30pm www.discoverychildcare.com.au

12511979-BL51-21

Enquire today for an obligation free tour: 12518013-CG51-21

Ghilgai: 295 Liverpool Rd Kilsyth 3137 Ghilgai: edadmin@ghilgai.com.au Website: ghilgai.com.au www.facebook.com/GhilgaiSteiner

SUMMER 2021 19

Education

From children’s earliest moments, mindfulness can help minimise anxiety and increase happiness.

Mindfulness and early learning FROM children’s earliest moments, mindfulness can help minimise anxiety and increase happiness. (David Gelles – New York Times).

all kids”. She goes on to say, “the power of mindfulness with kids is even greater because their brains and bodies are still under development”.

Ever ‘mindful’ of the need for a holistic approach to children’s development, Cire Early Learning has embedded mindfulness practices into its everyday activities to ensure our young learners can be the best they can be.

Annaka Harris who is an author and teaches mindfulness to children says, “Mindfulness can offer children relief from whatever difficulties they may be encountering in life”.

This has become even more important given the stresses and anxieties people of all ages have experienced due to the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic. Lockdowns, remote learning, working from home, social isolation, mask mandates, financial stress have all had a significant bearing on the mental health of our community including our children.

Preliminary evidence suggests that Covid has had a negative impact on children’s mental health and wellbeing.

Given this, it is important that we focus on preventing long-term adverse effects for children by focusing on well-being.

Research has found that practicing mindfulness can be extremely beneficial for both physical and mental health. Historically most of the research has been done on adults but more recently studies have shown the benefits of mindfulness for children, including a 2021 study in the United States that reported mindfulness-based interventions show promise in preventing the negative repercussions of Covid-19 in children. There is also growing evidence that suggests that teaching mindfulness to children can help with learning, emotional intelligence, self-regulation, selfconfidence, and social connectedness. It provides children with the tools to manage stressful situations and facilitates a positive outcome.

When talking about the power of mindfulness with children, child therapist Angela Pruess, says “anxiety or not, mindfulness will improve the behaviour and emotional well-being of 20 SUMMER 2021

Practicing mindfulness on a daily basis is one of the most beneficial ways to lower a child’s anxiety by keeping down their baseline stress level. Regular opportunities need to be offered to all children for them to reap the benefits of being mindful. It also helps strengthen self- control and the ability to make informed decisions in stressful times. The goal of mindfulness is to intentionally focus your attention and be present in the moment. When your child practices consciously shifting their attention, it is the equivalent of the self-control muscles of the brain lifting weights. Children need to focus their attention on themselves and be aware that there are things that they have control over but there are also things that they cannot control. By controlling their own emotions and feelings, children are more equipped to make better decisions. Children that are mindful have a larger capacity to learn and grow.

There are endless ways to practice mindfulness and every child, and also their parents, guardians and significant others in their lives, will greatly benefit from mindful intervention activities.

Cire Early Learning regularly practices mindfulness with children at their Chirnside Park, Mount Evelyn and Yarra Junction Early Learning sites and at their Outside School Hours Care (OSHC).

The children have eagerly engaged with the activities which have had a wonderful impact on their selfregulation and focus, and also those around them. The activities can be adjusted, or new ones introduced to be more age appropriate, for the rest of

their lives! Those used, and can be easily done at home, include: ■ Blowing bubbles is always a great way to practice mindfulness.

Children focus on taking deep breaths and then blow out slowly, to gently blow a bubble without popping it ■ Breathing exercises outdoors to connect with nature and be in the present ■ Spending time in the garden is peaceful and calming at any time, without the children even realising

effective way to teach your child mindfulness is to embrace and embed it into your daily life.

■ Listen to music and be in the moment ■ Guided meditation ■ Conscious breathing. When practiced in the correct way can have calming physiological effects. This is achieved when both our chest and belly are expanding during breathing.

■ Mindful colouring for primary school aged children

■ Mindful colouring for primary school-aged children

Recent US research Philosophy for children and mindfulness during Covid-19: Results from a randomised cluster trial and impact on mental health in elementary school students

Other ways for children, and adults, to practice mindfulness include: ■ Modelling mindfulness. By showing your child that you practice mindfulness it allows them to see you taking care of yourself and your own mental health. The most

Catherine Malboeuf-Hurtubisea,*, Terra L Ì eger-Goodesb, Genevi`eve A. Mageauc, Mireille Joussemetc, Catherine Herbad, Nicholas Chadie, David Lefrançoisf, Chantal Camdeng, `Eve-Line Bussi`eresh, Genevi`eve Taylori, Marc-Andr Ì e Ì Ethierj, Mathieu Gagnon

■ Basic yoga for children ■ Meditation

www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

Cire Early Learning At Cire, our curriculum is designed to establish rovbঞ ; u;Ѵ-ঞomv_brv b|_ ;7 1-ঞom -m7 ruolo|; o u 1_bѴ7Ľv 7; ;Ѵorl;m| =uol bm=-m| 1-u; |o school readiness.

Learn more about our Reggio Emilia inspired ruo]u-lv - -bѴ-0Ѵ; bm |_u;; 1om ;mb;m| Ѵo1-ঞomv in the Yarra Ranges today!

“You all do such amazing work with the children and make everyone feel we lcome and accepted. Cire is amazing!” Ŋ bu; -uѴ ;-um bm] -u;m|ķ ƑƏƑƈ

Why choose Cire?

-ѴbC;7 ;7 1-|ouv urov;Ŋ0 bѴ| =-1bѴbঞ;v m=-m| 1-u; |o Ɠ ;-u oѴ7 kindergarten Large outdoor playspaces Interest-lead learning

Make friends, learn news skills and have fun these v1_ooѴ _oѴb7- vĴ _ ]; u-m]; o= ; 1bঞm] -1ঞ bঞ;v suitable for primary school aged children.

VACATION CARE

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Scan the QR code for more details.

Chirnside Park | Mount Evelyn Ň +-uu- m1ঞom www.cire.org.au | 1300 835 235 | earlylearning@cire.org.au www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

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SUMMER 2021 21

Education

Getting your child all set for prep

By Melissa Grant STARTING school is a major milestone in a child’s life and a major transition.

So how do you best prepare your child for Prep?

Deakin University parenting expert Dr Elizabeth Westrupp says there are steps parents can take now to help with the transition.

Dr Westrupp, a clinical psychologist and senior lecturer in Deakin’s Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development (SEED), says that while most kids are very adaptable, it’s important parents exude a “calm confidence” and happily answer any question their child may have about school.

Here, Dr Westrupp shares her top tips for helping the transition go more smoothly: ■ Talk about school: Kids are usually pretty excited about going to school, but it is helpful for parents to talk about what happens at school. Dr Westrupp says parents should explain what going to school is all about.

“Talk about a typical day in school, it doesn’t have to be perfect or exact,” she said.

“Walk them through the routine - the night time routine including getting ready their school uniform, lunch box, drink bottle.

“As a parent you want to set your child’s expectations so there aren’t many surprises on the day.”

She says it’s also important to talk, in an age-appropriate way, about any questions or worries your child may have about starting school.

“Some children tend to worry about things. Give your child a base to chat about anything that’s on their mind.

“The way parents respond is how it shapes the child. If they are calm and confident that will reassure children. It’s really important that kids start with some enthusiasm so making it sound exciting, a positive, exciting thing.”

Mark the milestone with a celebration and/or take some photos of your child in their uniform before you take them to school for the first time.

■ Get your child involved: As your child’s first day of school approaches, get your child involved and make it fun. Dr Westrupp says it’s a good idea to get your child involved in preparing everything for their first day. This includes their school uniform/outfit, deciding what will be in their first lunchbox and what is going in their school bag.

“When kids are involved in planning it makes it more fun and makes them more confident,” she said.

■ Make adjustments to sleep: Over the summer holidays, many families relax bedtimes and routines.

Dr Westrupp says it’s helpful if you give your child a week or two to adapt to the school routine before

There are steps you can take at home to prepare your child for Prep.

they actually start. This means getting up early or setting a time to wake up.

“I suggest families set an alarm clock at the time their kids need to wake at school time, at least a week beforehand,” she said.

Although kids may be grumpy to start with, it should only last a few days.

■ Practice concentration: Learning in a classroom requires long periods of concentration.

“It might be good in those couple of weeks before school getting them to do some reading, sitting down and doing shared book reading, puzzles, artworks and writing letters, ” Dr Westrupp said.

You should also explain to your child that in school they will have to listen to what their teacher wants them to do and sit for periods of time.

Nutrition: You need to make sure you are providing your child with the right fuel as nutrition is important for brain development. Dr Westrupp says to keep nutrition simple with healthy foods like sandwiches and fruits.

■ Prepare for a tired child: When a child starts school, their little brains do so much as it’s a big transition.

“The new rules, the way classrooms work is quite a jump from kindergarten which is play-based,” Dr Westrupp said.

“Most kids will be a bit more grumpy at home because home is the safe space, so they can let their feelings out at home.”

This means you will have to be a little more patient and gentle with your child, and make sure they go to bed on time.

Achievement starts with care SINCE 1877, Tintern Grammar has been a leader in the fields of teaching, learning and the care of students.

Their co-educational campus caters for students from ELC to Years 12, set on 40 acres of beautiful tree-lined grounds, with magnificent sporting fields, state-of-the-art facilities and our very own working farm - Tinternwood.

Tintern encompasses the Parallel Learning Model, which sees students educated in both co-educational and single-gender settings according to their age and stage.

Tintern Grammar gets results results.

22 SUMMER 2021

Younger students learn in separate gender classes at an age when gender tends to play a greater role in influencing learning styles. Students are introduced into co-educational classes

in Year 10 when social development is an important part of their growth and maturation, as they prepare for future study and work pathways. Providing both single-gender and mixed classes on a co-educational campus gives families the perfect balance between academic and social development.

By nurturing students with care, Tintern Grammar fosters internal capabilities including self-awareness, emotional intelligence, courage, and resilience. At Tintern your child will enjoy the endless possibilities on offer, in an environment where they can strive with confidence and develop the broader capabilities required for future success.

To find out more and to apply, visit www.tintern.vic.edu.au

www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

Education

An education for the future

Student support SECONDARY students in government schools now have access to mental health support.

There are mental health practitioners employed in every Victorian state secondary and specialist school.

The mental health practitioners include psychologists, social workers, occupational therapists and mental health nurses delivering the unique needs of each student cohort.

Supporting around 188,000 students, these practitioners offer counselling and early intervention services, support students with complex needs, connect students to broader allied and community health services and deliver whole-school mental health promotion and prevention activities – including during periods of remote learning.

It’s all part of the Mental Health Practitioners initiative, which was finalised before the start of Term Four in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The $51.2 million initiative enables schools to employ a practitioner for up to five days a week.

“Students, teachers, families and school communities have been incredibly resilient throughout this pandemic - but we know it’s been incredibly difficult for many of our kids, and we’re making sure they’re supported while studying,” Education Minister James Merlino said.

WITH schools around the world having to reinvent the way in which they teach their students, it is never more relevant to ask whether our educational approach adequately prepares children for the uncertainties of the modern world.

Research shows that a dramatically different future for young people will be required to live a viable and sustainable life, with an increasing shift towards personal growth, development and learning becoming a lifetime commitment.

There are now mental health practitioners employed in every Victorian state secondary and specialist school.

The Mental Health Practitioners initiative is in addition to the state government’s $28.5 million package to ensure that all Victorian government school students have continued access to professional mental health and wellbeing support during the pandemic.

The last state budget also included $200 million for a new School Mental Health Fund. This fund allows schools to select and implement mental health and wellbeing programs that best meet the needs of their students, while also connecting with specialist services.

Education focused solely on skills and knowledge will no longer sufficiently prepare young people to keep pace with the demands of a rapidly changing world.

Steiner education is based on a developmental and pedagogical understanding of children that builds the capacities and qualities needed for the future. Working out of a developmentally based approach means that the methodology shifts as the children grow and progress through their schooling. Simply put, the approach is to steadily shift the locus of behaviour management from outside of the child to within.

In kindergarten, the children are held by the loving authority of their teachers, who consciously model

The future is now.

appropriate social interactions and behaviour. Later, the students begin to experience more clearly stated rules and carefully chosen stories arising out of the cultural epochs that guide them.

Steiner education primarily focuses on teaching children how to think, not what to think. Although this distinction is subtle, we can see the results reflected in the well-rounded, confident young adults that graduate from Steiner schools each year. See the 2021 Year 12 Projects at https:// www.lysslearnproject.com.au/

Steiner Education at Little Yarra Yarra Valley’s Independent K-12 Steiner School 205 Little Yarra Rd Yarra Junction

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Contact us / Book a tour / More information: Phone - (03) 5967 1953

Email - office@lyss.vic.edu.au

Website - www.lyss.vic.edu.au 12524559-SG51-21

www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

SUMMER 2021 23

Entertainment

Get creative at Robert Gordon

AUSTRALIA’S ultimate animal survivors will be featured in a new children’s series on ABC ME. Production is underway on Built to Survive, a 10-part children’s natural history factual series.

The series is spearheaded by wildlife aficionado, biologist and third generation Indigenous educator, Phil Breslin.

Phil will brave some of the country’s most extreme and hostile environments in search of the ultimate animal survivors. These are species that have evolved their unique qualities to withstand Australia’s extreme conditions and unique ecosystems.

Built To Survive will be filmed on location in remote and wilderness environments throughout Queensland.

Robert Gordon is a great place to visit with the family.

with beautiful coffee.

Robert Gordon is located at 114 Mulcahy Road, Pakenham and is open 7 days 9am-5pm. Online bookings for the Paint Your Own Pottery and workshops are essential. Phone 03 5941 3302. www.robertgordonaustralia.com

Consulting with First Nations peoples about habitats and lifecycles, Phil will traverse rivers and deserts, dive deep into the ocean, scale trees and use science in a bid to explore some of the strangest and most specialised animal adaptations on the planet.

Libbie Doherty, ABC Head of Children’s Production said the show would take children on a wild ride.

“Aussie kids are adventurers at heart, captivated by our unique land, curious wildlife and Indigenous knowledge,” she said.

Phil Breslin, host of the new children’s TV series Built to Survive.

“Phil’s fresh perspective combines all three and takes the ABC ME audience on a wild ride across Australia.”

The series is being produced by Butter Media, with the support of the Australian Children’s Television Foundation (ACTF).

Built to Survive will screen on ABC ME and ABC iview in 2022.

12508748-CG38-21

ANYONE can get creative at Robert Gordon, with workshops for all ages.

If you’ve never worked with ceramics before you needn’t worry. Friendly staff are on-hand to show you how.

Robert Gordon offers workshops in wheel throwing, handbuilding and paint your own pottery.

The paint your own pottery workshop is popular with families. All you have to do is choose your pot, decorate with paint and collect your masterpiece 14 days later.

If you’re after something more extensive, you should check out Robert Gordon’s six-week pottery course. The course covers hand building, wheel throwing, moulding, sculpture and painting in a friendly atmosphere.

The workshops take place in a new studio space at Robert Gordon Pottery factory outlet.

Located in the heart of Pakenham, the outlet is a great place to visit with the family. They have a large selection of homewares, baskets and textiles.

There’s also the Nancy Eatery, which serves up relaxed, homestyle meals

A wild ride for young viewers

24 SUMMER 2021

www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

Reality Bites

Mumpreneur wins gold award

By Melissa Meehan WHEN Judy Cheung-Wood was a teenager, she suffered terrible acne.

And it followed her into adulthood.

“I started all of the brands at the supermarket but I found they ended up irritating my skin, so by the time I was in uni I was using very expensive products – I didn’t care if the bottle was $50 and when it didn’t work I just kept trying he next product,” Judy told Kids Today.

“So it got to the point that I had exhausted the market and I was reading some research about the benefits of vitamin B5 and I was absolutely fascinated.”

From there, this busy Olinda mum of one started her holistic business, called SkinB5 that saw her win the gold in the 2021 AusMumpreneur Global Brand Award as well as a silver for product innovation and multicultural business excellence.

“For decades, no one challenged the conventional approach to treating acne – using harsh chemicals to kill bacteria associated with acne breakouts, merely managing the symptoms,” Judy said.

“These wins showcase the traction that we have made and help refuel our passion to help acne sufferers with our nutraceutical Australian made products.”

SkinB5 is an Australian made

skincare product composed of dermanutraceuticals, which treat acne holistically without side effects.

friends at AusTrade – who invited her on an international trip to sell her wares before she even had a product.

And it now has health professionals are recommending SkinB5 as an alternative to prescription acne medication.

“We had an idea, but no product – so we had to get that sorted before we went on that trip,” she said.

The patented vitamin formula found in SkinB5 addresses the underlying causes of acne rather than just the symptoms.

Thousands of acne sufferers have left 5 star reviews and they call SkinB5 a ‘game changer’.

“In healing my own skin, I’m deeply driven to help others confidently present their full face and vision to the world,” Judy said.

It is no surprise she went down that path either, her grandfather was a chemist and manufacturer of natural skin products too.

She believes she has inherited his expertise and passion for traditional, nutritional medicine and creation of natural skincare products.

Now, she sells her product worldwide, includes Singapore, Philippines.

“I always use the philosophy of putting on an oxygen mask on yourself when in a plane before you out it on your child, and in life I think we have to do that,” she said.

“I actually schedule a walk every day in my calendar because it doesn’t happen otherwise.”

To read more about Judy’s product go to www.skinb5.com

It is no mean feat creating a skincare empire with a young daughter in tow, she’s now seven, but Judy says it’s really important to set aside some me time.

Judy built the business from a ground up, launching online with no advertising.

However, with a little help from her

Olinda mum Judy Cheung-Wood started her own business based on her experience with teenage acne.

Mum’s business idea to help little women

By Melissa Grant

the end of my bed,” she explained.

MUM of three Rebecca Little is big on making a difference.

“It was my 12th birthday party where I got my period and I ended up sitting out of my own birthday party. I had no idea what to do with a tampon.”

Whether it’s empowering young females through her new project Little Miss Period or using her profile to help charities, Bec is a busy mum who is making her mark.

And with three young girls, including three-year-old twins, a business and managing an Instagram account with more than 48,000 followers, Bec admits that life can be pretty hectic.

“I think for the everyday person that being a mum is a full-time job obviously now I’m juggling that and the Instagram, Little Miss Period and my husband (Dion) works really long hours.

I would consider it a full-time job times three!” the 33-year-old Victorian said, with a laugh.

During lockdown in July Bec launched Little Miss Period, although the idea had been brewing for a while.

The business, which started off as selling ‘period boxes’, stemmed from her own transition into womanhood.

“When I was young and going through those stages that my mum pretty much put a box of tampons at www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

It’s a situation she doesn’t want her own girls - and other young females - to experience.

“I just want that openness with my girls. I want them to feel supported and empowered in every decision that takes place around their body and know that they’re in charge,” she said.

Bec and her three daughters.

“I guess I wanted to make it (getting periods) fun and exciting and not such a scary thing.”

Bec and husband Dion took their young daughter Charlotte, who was nearly 2 at the time, around America for two months.

The period boxes are intended to be a celebratory gift for a girl when she starts menstruation. The boxes are fun but informative with a ‘Welcome to Your Period’ book, tampons, pads, period briefs, a wheat bag and more.

The concept has taken off with Bec receiving orders every day. It has also evolved into a site that sells period underwear, menstrual cups and self-care resources.

Bec’s is also posting about women’s fashion, children’s fashion, and beauty on her Instagram page.

However her early posts were all

about travelling as parents.

“It was just a really spectacular holiday. I guess people loved seeing us travelling to all these incredible landmarks,” Bec said.

“I feel like it definitely took off there.”

More followers came when Bec announced that she and Dion were having twins.

Having such a strong following on Instagram has led Bec to some great opportunities and collaborations.

She became an ambassador for Share the Dignity after the charity put out a call to influencers via social media.

Picture: Jackie Thomas

“OCD me took it on and within a week we were able to raise $40,000 in cash and product. I used my network of brands I’d worked with before and so many came to the party.

“We put together 350 bags of essential items you would need in a month shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrush, just the essentials we all take for granted.

“It was a very proud moment and something I hope that I can continue to do.”

Bec donates $2 from each Little Miss Period sale to Share the Dignity.

You can follow Bec on Instagram at rebeccalittle_ or check out Little Miss Period at https://littlemissperiod.com/ SUMMER 2021 25

Reality Bites

The relieved couple welcomed their first girl, Bonnie.

Bonnie makes a speedy entrance

By Taylah Eastwell MANY minds wonder what happens if you are pulled over while speeding to the hospital in labour, but for little Bonnie Petersen and her parents, that exact question will prompt one of the greatest 21st birthday stories imaginable.

When Jenae Petersen’s waters broke around 11.25pm on 14 August, her husband Paul knew he didn’t have time to waste. Jenae had a history of short labours with their two young sons, and Paul wasn’t taking any chances on a last minute roadside birth.

police while in the pointy-end of labour during the Covid-19 pandemic when the pair were not meant to be outside of their 5km radius made an incredibly stressful situation all the more intense.

But the two Mooroolbark officers were quick to act, with Senior Constable David Grey and Constable Jason Lloyd-Sanderson jumping back in their police car and escorting the couple - at a slight speed - through Kilsyth, The Basin and Ferntree Gully until they reached the Angliss.

“There were no questions asked, they just took off and said follow us,” Jenae said.

After the couple frantically called Jenae’s sister-in-law to come and watch their boys, they piled into the car and left their Mooroolbark home for the Angliss Hospital in Upper Ferntree Gully.

“My husband is happy he got his Fast and Furious moment down Forest Road,” she laughed.

“When my waters broke that was the first sign of labour and that was when the contractions started between four and five minutes apart,” Jenae said.

“We pulled up straight outside the door where my second support person was waiting and she grabbed the wheelchair after seeing how full on I was,” Jenae said.

“I went into labour pretty much straight away. We got into the car and realised we needed petrol, so we chucked some petrol in but by the time we got from Manchester Road to just before the basketball stadiums on Liverpool Road, I had completely changed. I couldn’t talk, I was in full blown labour, so my husband started speeding,” she said.

The distressed couple were doing their best to make it to the hospital, with little Bonnie in a rush to enter the world, when they noticed the dreaded blue and red flashing lights in their rear-view mirror.

“We saw the coppers chuck a u-turn behind us. We kept going, not as fast, but they pulled us over and my husband jumped out and said ‘my wife is in labour I’ve got to get her to hospital’,” Jenae said.

“They shone their torch in and had one look at me and just said ‘Angliss?

Follow us’,” she said.

By this stage, Jenae’s mind was preoccupied, but being pulled over by 26 SUMMER 2021

Paul said he probably passed a total of five other cars the whole trip.

While Paul moved the car from the ambulance park, the two police officers picked up Jenae’s bags and walked her in to the elevator before saying their goodbyes and good lucks.

Once up in the maternity ward, Jenae made it onto the bed before Paul caught up with her after parking the car.

“He helped me onto the bed and I literally rolled on my side and she was head out. The nurses were saying ‘you can relax, you’re here, you made it to hospital, just relax’. Her head came out and with a little push during my next contraction she was here,” Jenae said.

After arriving at the hospital with the police escort, it only took Bonnie seven minutes to enter the world - with Jenae only in the birthing room for mere minutes.

“We made the phone call to my second support person, who was my photographer, twelve minutes before her birth time when we were still on Burwood Highway. Her birth summary

Jenae Petersen holds baby Bonnie for the first time and shares a laugh of relief with husband Paul after a speedy trip to the hospital.

Pictures: Eng Photography and Design

paperwork says I was in labour stages two and three for five minutes,” she said.

get out of the car when police pull you over,” she said.

Bonnie was born at 12.35am on 15 August.

“He has got kids himself and he knew sometimes you just have to do what you have to do.”

“I always said to my husband my biggest fear was birthing on the side of the road or in the car, I didn’t want to and I was scared it would happen during the day and I’d be alone. I’m so glad it happened in the middle of the night and he was there.

Jenae spoke to Senior Constable Grey the following day to say thank you and had her call returned by him shortly afterwards.

“He said he knew something was up as soon as Paul opened the door when they pulled us over because you don’t

But the two officers were left shocked at just how quickly Bonnie entered the world, telling Ms Jenae they thought she was “easily an hour off”.

“I wouldn’t have made it to the hospital without them. We can’t praise them enough,” she said.

A spokesperson from Mooroolbark Police confirmed the officers escorted a driver after intercepting him for driving quickly as the wife had a history of short labours. www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

Reality Bites

Mum helping parents with anxiety

By Melissa Meehan MELBOURNE mum of two Erika Cramer knows a thing or two about trauma.

She grew up in the United States, her mum was bi-polar and spent time in and out of foster care.

But despite all of that she worked on herself and became the Queen of Confidence.

Now with more than 55,000 instagram followers – she provides life coaching for other mums dealing with anxiety and trauma.

Covid-19 has thrown a curve ball for many Australians – particularly Melburnians.

And as adults we’ve all felt it but imagine being a kid during these times.

“There has been so much uncertainty – both in the home and outside world,” Erika told Kids Today.

“And how the parents are coping or have coped with it – our kids feed on our anxiety.”

Erika says during the many lockdowns since the start of the pandemic, many would have their “trauma brain” on 24/7.

“It’s not healthy but that’s what we’ve had to deal with, stuck at home, real life shut down – and especially when the playgrounds closed… that was huge,’ she said.

“Before they were closed, we knew it was bad but we had the playground but when they were closed, it was just like a dagger through the heart.”

For many, the sense of normality was taken away and unfortunately adults weren’t mindful of speaking carefully around their kids.

They pick up so much of what we say, Erika says.

“For many kids Coronavirus is a monster who ruined their lives, which is kind of true, but if we don’t do as much as we can to express how we are feeling and explain to them what is happening and how we are feeling… they make up the rest with fear and imagination,” she said.

Erika Cramer, The Queen of Confidence, is an international confidence coach and popular 5 star podcast host.

She has some tips about how to be a better parent when you are already feeling anxious yourself: ■ Be aware of yourself Think about how you are feeling right now, can you communicate freely? Are you overworked?

Anxious? Stressed out? What do you need?

■ You need to fill your cup first We say it all the time. But if we are not feeling our best, we can’t be the best for the ones we love.

■ You need to say how you feel There is no point of having the “she’ll be right” attitude, it’s an unhealthy to deal with trauma. We need to express how we feel and that is OK and teach our children that its normal to have emotions

■ Set boundaries It’s hard when in lockdown to set your own boundaries but then you need to set new ones. Whether it’s as simple as not having the news on 24/7. Kids aren’t programmed to have that screen time.

And when lockdown is finally over and we’ve reached 90 per cent, ease back into normal life.

Be mindful of how your child is feeling. If they are anxious around large crowds don’t take them to a busy shopping centre during the Christmas rush and don’t fill your house with visitors every day.

Sometimes slowly easing back into normal life is all we need. https://thequeenofconfidence.com

Pregnancy journey from London to Melbourne

By Melissa Meehan

quarantine and then to Melbourne.

From there they had seven weeks to find somewhere to live and buy all of the baby necessities.

BEING pregnant during the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns is tough.

Luckily for them, the shops were open during that time.

But imagine being stranded on the other side of the world, numerous flights cancelled and having only two weeks until you’re no longer legally allowed to fly.

Baby Aneeka was born on 8 February 2021. Melbourne went into a snap lockdown just one day later.

Thankfully the lockdown only lasted five days, and Radhika and Aneeka were able to connect with other mums and bubs through their local mothers group a few times before the longer lockdown of 2021.

This was a reality for Melbourne mum Radhika Sahu and her husband Utkarsh.

The pair were living in London when Radhika was first pregnant and lived there for seven-and-a-half months of her pregnancy.

“I have the most amazing mum’s gAnd while her pregnancy wasn’t exactly what was expected, being able to live in the same city as her family (pandemic or not) gave Radhika some perspective on the issue.

It was during the height of the pandemic in the UK – all retail and services were closed.

“It’s safe to say we did a lot of walking, discovering London on foot,” Radhika said.

But while seeing London from a different view was exciting, the reality of the pandemic coming to an end sooner than later seemed like an impossible dream.

It seemed unlikely they would be able to travel home with the new baby or have family come visit. www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

Mum Radhika dhik and dh her d daughter h Aneeka. k

“Thankfully we had flights booked through my husband’s work, but despite that we had five cancellations before we were able to board a flight home,” she said.

“If we were cancelled once more, I

Picture: i Rob b Carew

doubt we would have been able to come home. I was two weeks away from not being able to fly while pregnant.”

So the couple flew to Brisbane where they completed their two week

“We are just so thankful to be back in Melbourne. That was our priority and looking at the bigger picture, I’m just so happy to be in the same city as my family,” she said.

“Sure there are things we would have loved to do, including getting some more travel in or being a little bit more prepared in terms of shopping – but we are just so glad that we got back home.”

SUMMER 2021 27

Reality Bites

Tale of too many toys

By Melissa Grant

She loved the doll so much that it never crossed her mind to replace it.

toys and needs his family’s help to save the day.

LIKE many parents, Victorian author Stef Gemmill knows that far too many plastic toys can end up in the bin.

The doll is the inspiration behind Stef’s latest children’s book, Toy Mountain.

The book, beautifully illustrated by Katharine Hall, highlights the huge amounts of plastic waste generated by consumer culture.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

Stef has fond memories of being a young girl constantly playing with a hand-me-down doll that was well-loved and well-worn.

The book highlights why we should opt for toys that lasts by following the story of a boy named Sam who becomes a toy tester for a toy factory.

Sam, who was growing tired of his toys, ends up with a heap of plastic toys in all shapes and colours.

The doll had one eye, so Stef took her to the local toy hospital to be repaired.

However, he soon finds himself at the bottom of a mountain of broken plastic

It aims to empower children to take sustainability into their own hands by reminding them that their choices count.

Toy Mountain, EK Books RRP $24.99, is available at local bookstores.

For more information about Stef, visit https://www.stefgemmill.com

Victorian mum and author Stef Gemmill.

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Books

A ‘Wandi’ful book for kids

By Melissa Grant THERE’S a true story about a dingo pup that fell out of the sky and into the backyard of a Victorian home.

Now that story is being shared in the form of a children’s book to raise awareness about purebred alpine dingoes, a species in need of protection.

Critically acclaimed author Favel Parrett wrote the book Wandi, named after the dingo that she’s come to know incredibly well.

Favel volunteers at the Dingo Discovery Sanctuary, where Wandi has lived since falling from the sky in August 2019.

Marks on Wandi’s back suggested he was picked up by a wedge-tail eagle or an owl and taken from his home in the mountains and dropped into a suburban backyard in Wandiligong, near Bright.

A woman found Wandi, who was just five weeks old at the time, crying in a garden and initially thought he was a dog or fox. However, DNA testing revealed he was in fact a purebred alpine dingo.

Wandi was taken to Dingo Discovery Sanctuary, where he was nursed back to health and paired with a female cub.

Wandi became an overnight sensation, with his incredible survival story making headlines around the world.

It’s a story Parrett wanted to tell in a children’s book. She longs for young readers to fall in love with alpine dingoes like she has.

Parrett met her first dingo a few years ago while visiting the sanctuary for a ‘cuddle a cub’ tour.

She thought she would be cuddling some cute cubs, but was instead blown away by what she discovered about the species.

She knew she was in the “presence of greatness” when she learned that they could hear human heartbeats from 25 metres away.

“They are hyper intelligent, their intelligence is beyond,” she said.

“Also, wherever their head can fit, they can fit. They can dislocate both of their shoulders and their hips.”

Parrett is at the sanctuary twice a

Wandi the dingo dingo.

week and has seen Wandi come leaps and bounds since meeting him as a four-month-old pup.

The wonder dingo recently became a dad to six cubs and has amassed more than 56,000 followers on Instagram.

Wandi’s journey to fatherhood is central to the book. According to Parrett, it’s a story of hope as it ends with the famous dingo having his own family. However he is missing his own parents and siblings and wishing they could all be free in the wild.

Author Favel Parrett is passionate about dingoes.

Unfortunately, Parrett says it’s impossible to “rewild” the sanctuary’s dingoes due to the threats they face. including being shot by hunters.

of great need,” she said.

Parrett hopes her story can rewrite the role of alpine dingoes and teach children to be proud of the apex predator.

She believes Wandi’s fall from the sky has a purpose.

Wandi is available at local bookstores.

The book is also available at wandithedingo.com.au, with all proceeds from the book and merchandise going to the sanctuary.

“Wandi has come here for a reason, we believe Wandi came to us at a time

You can also follow Wandi on Instagram at wandi_dingo

“He’s our ambassador to show, let’s give dingoes a chance… and say, hey let’s be proud.”

Children’s books...

Cookie

Little Big Bully

Isabelle Duff, illustrated by Susannah Crispe

Trace Moroney

A heartwarming book about the beautiful bond between Girl and her Border Collie Cookie that is a sensitive exploration of childhood depression. The inseparable pair play together and learn how to make each other happy, even on the days when Cookie is the only one who can make Girl smile. The book is inspired by the author’s personal experiences with acute depressive disorder and anxiety, and by her wonderful dog, Saffy, who has been an invaluable support to her. A valuable resource for reducing stigmatism around mental illness, and a tribute to the loved ones who are able to get you out of bed when nothing else can.

A thoughtful book that sensitively describes how and why bullying happens. It explores a range of wellresearched techniques to develop coping skills and proactive strategies that describe what to do when bullying occurs.

Little Big Bully is part of Trace Moroney’s new My Emotions Series about big feelings for little people. The first of two titles in the series (the other is The Grief Wave) which equips kids with valuable skills to navigate their way through life’s ups and downs.

A must read for kids aged 4+ eQ Publications, RRP $20.99

Kid President Totally Rules!

Who’s a Goose?

Deltora Quest

Scott Stuart

Emily Rodda

Jack Health, illustrated by Max Rambaldi

A hilarious book about two gaggling geese that will make kids giggle. The geese are grappling with how collective nouns apply to a variety of animals, from a barrel of monkeys to a cool waddle of penguins. One goose is goose, and two goose is geese… you get the idea! Serious Bruce is trying to teach silly-billy Bill but it’s not going that well. And when some foxes arrive, the lesson is pretty much over! With animated illustrations and rhyming text, this is a fun read for kids aged 3+

A special 21st anniversary edition of Deltora Quest from award-winning author Emily Rodda that features the much-loved series of eight books.

What would your child do if they were president? In this comedy from award-winning Aussie author Jack Heath, Jaxxon has accidentally been elected as the first Kid President. He wants free ice-cream in schools, homework to be made illegal and national parks to become skate parks. Sounds awesome, right? Well not everyone is happy and they want Jaxxon kicked out of the presidential office. Can Jaxxon remain president and show everyone that he totally rules? For readers aged 9+ Scholastic Australia, RRP $17.99

Scholastic Australia, RRP $17.99

Three companions - Leif, Barda and Jasmine - are on a quest to find the seven lost gems of the Belt of Deltora. Once the belt is complete the evil rule of Shadow Lord will be overcome.

This gripping novel is set in the fantasy world of Deltora, a kingdom of magic and monsters, bordered by the sea and a vast, curving mountain range, beyond which is an unknown territory called the Shadowlands.

For readers aged 8+ Scholastic Australia, RRP $39.99

EK Books, RRP $24.99 www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

SUMMER 2021 29

Kids Calendar

What's on

this summer

UNTIL 19 DECEMBER

UNTIL 24 DECEMBER

ALL SUMMER

MOUNT EVELYN CHRISTMAS TRAIL

SANTA’S WORKSHOP

PAINTBALL GAMES

Check out Santa’s Workshop at Federation Square.

Low impact paintball suitable for kids aged 8 years and over.

Say hello and pose for a free photo (from a Covid-safe distance of course!).

Starts at $40 per person with 300 paintballs for a two-hour session.

Three locations: Cockatoo, Coldstream and Ballan.

UNTIL 20 DECEMBER

Santa will be in his workshop daily from 10am-2pm, then 1pm to 3pm right up until Christmas Eve. You can also catch him on Thursdays and Fridays between 4pm and 7pm.

Check-in, proof of vaccination required and capacity limited. Expect small waiting times during busy periods.

PAINT YOUR OWN POTTERY

HOCUS POCUS: MAGIC WITH ELIO SIMONETTI

Discover 12 stations along the Warburton Trail at Mount Evelyn with competitions and activities for the whole family.

More info discoverychurch.com.au/ christmas-trail

An online video series starring master magician Elio Simonetti who explains how to perform some astonishing tricks you can do to amaze your family and friends.

Free event. No bookings required.

A free event for kids aged 5-12 years.

No bookings required.

See Christmas come to life at Melbourne’s Federation Square. There will be plenty of festive decorations and the city’s iconic 16-metre light-up tree.

More information: https://www. melbourne.vic.gov.au/

Robert Gordon’s paint your own pottery workshop is popular with families. All you have to do is choose your pot, decorate with paint and collect your masterpiece 14 days later.

The workshops take place in a new studio space at Robert Gordon Pottery factory outlet.

Online bookings for the workshops are essential.

UNTIL 25 DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS SQUARE

New additions include sparkling neon trees, giant bell swings, beautiful baubles and other glittering new decorations.

UNTIL 31 DECEMBER

Free event. No bookings required.

SHRINE KIDS

UNTIL 25 DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS PROJECTIONS The much-loved Christmas projections are back at Melbourne Town Hall. See five gorgeous adornments, complete with a countdown to Christmas clock.

While visiting, go and see the projections at Chapter House Lane and Hamer Hall too.

Nightly 9pm-11pm. Bookings not required.

30 SUMMER 2021

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The Shrine of Remembrance is offering a free self-guided program for families with primary school-aged children.

There are four different activity cards that provide a starting point for fresh perspectives of the Shrine. Kids are asked to consider and conjure their creative responses to a range of questions related to different aspects of the Shrine.

Bookings not required. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Shrine of Remembrance, Birdwood Ave, Melbourne

Robert Gordon is located at 114 Mulcahy Road, Pakenham. Phone 03 5941 3302 or visit www.robertgordonaustralia.com

THE STORY OF THE MOVING IMAGE An exhibition that traverses time, countries and cultures in a mesmerising exploration of an art form that changed the world and illuminated our collective humanity. The free vent features ancient shadow puppets, Victorian-era magic lanterns, original cameras, iconic costumes, movie sets, sketches and more.

ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image), Federation Square More information: https://www.acmi. net.au/whats-on/story-of-the-movingimage-exhibition/ www.YarraRangesKids.com.au

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