Knox Monash Kids - Winter 2022

knox monash

WINTER 2022

today

Preparation

pays off Light up the night at

EMERGE

New kids hub for

MONASH www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

Winter 2022 1

About Us

knox Monash

Warming up for that winter glow AHH the crisp air of winter has arrived.

boost your immune system.

As we brace for the rain and winds of winter we realise the cold weather doesn’t mean we need to stay cooped up indoors.

And that’s something all families need as we approach our first winter without a lockdown in some years.

There are many benefits of getting outside and lettings the cold air into your lungs and exploring what the local area has to offer.

Doctors say there are many positives of getting outdoors and breathing in the cold air and getting some sunlight increases circulation, vitamin D and can

There are so many great places to explore, restaurants that will warm those winter bellies and places to take the kids to explore.

So rug up and get outside, the kids will love it and you can support so many local businesses who have spent the last few years doing it tough.

TODAY Knox Monash Kids Today magazine is a Star News Group publication.

And for those of you wanting to stay inside with the kids, mum Erica Carew has you covered with 365 days of play or for those winter rashes, author Charlotte Rassmussen has got you covered with natural remedies.

I can’t wait to take the kids outside to splash in muddy puddles and play in the rain.

Stay healthy and have fun,

Knox Monash will be published quarterly prior to each of the school holidays.

Knox Monash Kids 244 Maroondah Highway, Healesville, Vic 3777 Phone: 5957 3700 Fax: 5957 3777

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

Advertising Andy Jukes andy.jukes@starnewsgroup.com.au Phone: 5945 0643

CONTENTS

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

Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas.

IT’S YOUR LIFE Preparation pays off PAGE 3 You can’t do it alone

Diabetes and motherhood

Wellbeing plus academics

PAGE 18

PAGE 16

Let nature guide you

BOOKS

PAGE 19

PHILLIP ISLAND

PAGE 20

Prepare to hit the road

Centre’s new playground

Discover new children’s books

PAGE 4

PAGE 11

PAGE 20

It takes a village

EDUCATION

HEALTH

Keeping childcare safe

Nitty gritty of the titty

PAGE 13

PAGE 21

Enrol the whole family

KIDS CALENDAR

Beetroot red velvet cakes PAGE 6 New early years hub PAGE 7

PAGE 14

PAGE 9

WINTER 2022

today

Preparation

pays off Light up the night at

EMERGE

What’s on this winter

Striving for excellence

Fostering siblings in need

knox monash

Get ready, Mama!

PAGE 4

PAGE 5

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

New kids hub for

PAGE 22

MONASH

PAGE 14

www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

Winter 2022 1

What NAPLAN tells us

Lighting up winter nights

Cover

PAGE 16

Friends Ella and Madi shelter from a winter shower.

Picture: Rob Carew

PAGE 9 Island’s whale of a time PAGE 11 Play to while winter away PAGE 12 Creating routine for teens PAGE 17

knoxmonashkids.com.au 2 Winter 2022

facebook.com/knoxmonashkids

instagram.com/knoxmonashkids_social www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

It’s Your Life

Jess Barrington and baby Finn.

Preparation pays off

By Casey Neill

“I woke up one morning with period pains” Jessie said.

NOTHING can truly prepare you for parenthood, but what about birth?

“I didn’t think it was labour, because it was so minor, but I hadn’t felt anything like that my whole pregnancy.

Jessie Barrington says taking time to prepare her body and mind made son Finn’s entry to the world a smooth one.

Like many mums to be, fear set in when those two blue lines appeared on her pregnancy test.

She and husband Trent thought parenthood would be a little further down the track for them, but just a few weeks after Finn’s arrival were already glad they’d taken the leap sooner than later.

Jessie, from The Basin, described her pregnancy as uneventful. Aside from some morning sickness early on, she felt good and carried quite small.

She’d caught her own mum, Suzie, off-guard when she arrived at 36 weeks after an incredibly quick labour, which played on her mind as her own duedate approached.

“Towards the end I was hopeful that I would go early because I just wanted to meet my baby,” she said.

Finn showed a fraction more patience than his mum, and decided 37 weeks was his time to shine.

“I passed a clot. I didn’t see it but the midwives did. That’s when they decided to check me.

“If I was in early labour, passing the clot was bad, but in active labour it’s normal.”

“Half way through the day I just thought they would stop.

They discovered Jessie was eight centimetres dilated.

“All my friends who had gone naturally, the process was a lot longer.

It was a couple of days.”

“After that they were like ‘we’ve got to get shit sorted’,” she laughed.

She called the hospital when her contractions were 10 minutes apart and was advised to call back when that gap was three to five minutes.

“They said ‘you’re early labour, this could be a long time’,” she said.

Jessie had friends who’d been sent back home from the hospital to wait for their labour to progress, so she waited until there were three minutes between her contractions to head in.

“Three became two quite quickly,” she said.

“When I got there they were so relaxed because it was my first and I was handling the contractions quite well.

“They didn’t think I was that far along.”

They told her the average active labour was 10 hours - hers was two hours, 55 minutes.

“They broke the rest of my waters and I went straight to 9 centimetres,” she said.

“He just dropped straight down.

“I think the forewaters were just holding him there.

“They said ‘you’re going to have a baby really soon’.”

A few more contractions took her to 10 centimetres.

She pushed for an hour and Finn entered the world at 7.31pm - just three hours after she arrived at the hospital.

He weighed a petite 2.74 kilograms and was 49 centimetres long.

“I think I was in shock,” Jessie said.

“Once he was out I was so relieved and we were so excited.

“I literally had no signs I was going into labour,” she said.

They checked Jessie and Finn’s vitals and asked her if she wanted to go back home.

Even part-way through her labour Jessie was telling herself “this isn’t it”.

“I said ‘no’ and I asked if they could check how far along I was,” she said.

“We were both in shock for a good two days because the labour was fast and he came early.

It wasn’t until she was on the way to The Angliss hospital that she turned to her husband and said “I think we’re having the baby”.

“The contractions started ramping up.

My waters kind of broke and were dripping out with each contraction

“I remember looking in the cot that night and thinking ‘how is this actually real?’.”

www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

Preparing for the birth, Jessie watched a parenting class that explained the pelvis and provided stretches for before and during the birth.

“It just really explained how with birthing, it’s 50 per cent the mum and 50 per cent the baby,” she said.

“The baby has to be in the right position.”

She saw her chiro four or five times to ensure her pelvis was in the right position, drank raspberry leaf tea - said to help prepare the cervix and uterus from 36 weeks, and had one acupuncture appointment focused on softening her cervix.

“I was really looking forward to doing more acupuncture, that was really nice and relaxing,” she said.

“I don’t know if it was mind over matter, but I’d do it again.

“I think it all made a difference. I’d do it all again for sure.

“My recovery was really good, too.

“I was obviously really sore the first week, but I think everyone is.

“It’s pretty hectic what we go through.”

Jessie said her introduction to parenthood had been relentless but the best, and was becoming even more rewarding as Finn became more animated, giving smiles and giggles.

“You feel bad saying it’s hard, but it’s still the best thing ever,” she said.

Winter 2022 3

It’s Your Life

We all need each other to feel okay We all need each other to feel okay, writes STEVE BIDDULPH ONE of my biggest heroes is a psychiatrist called Dr. Gabor Mate. He works in Vancouver, Canada, with street people and especially drug addicts. He is well into his 80’s, and on you can find him on YouTube. He looks like a kindly turtle with scrawny neck and big soft eyes. My family tell me I am slowly turning into him!

Gabor had a rough childhood. He was born in Hungary just as the Nazis were invading. And he was Jewish.

Baby Gabor wasn’t sleeping very well, and his mum rang their family paediatrician.

The old doctor told her - yes my dear, (and these words still send a chill down my spine) none of my Jewish babies are sleeping. The message of this story, which he often shares, is that when the parents are worried, then the kids are worried too. To use a not very scientific term - “they pick up on it”.

Coming back to the present day, this puts every one of us who is bringing up children - of any age, into a difficult position. We know, almost instinctively, that our kids really do best if we ourselves are calm and happy. But you can’t fake those things. And all around us are reasons to be very very stressed.

This is not a family friendly world that our politicians or employers have created, and just buying or renting a house and feeding everyone is getting

harder. Every family feels it.

I am hearing this every day from families on my Facebook community for parents of boys. Each month I award a Comment of the Month prize for the best comment, and this month’s was to a nurse and mother, who had three special needs children, and a partner who was on deployment in the army!

She made such great comments about how impossible life was becoming with the dual expectations of school and work. Others were coming onboard, with supportive or agreeing comments.

We couldn’t do much practical, but it was good just to share stories. For a brief half hour, we all felt like we were a tribe, in the same boat, and caring about each other.

Social media is a two edged sword, it can turn nasty in a matter of seconds and leave you feeling worse. But the point is true. We really need connection

every single day with people who have time for us, and listen to us, and don’t shame us for the pain we are in.

the evening is often the only time we have to really be a family, this mini break can get it off to a better start.

So this is the message I want to give you (sorry, it was a slow way to get around to it). - you can’t handle life on your own, we just aren’t made that way. Human beings are needed to make other human beings feel okay. A baby cries and we soothe it. A child comes home from school ratty, and we hug them and let them chill, or sit and listen to what has gone wrong today.

Parents getting back together at the end of a long day might need to stop the headlong rush to make dinner, and first thing have a quiet drink, some nourishing snacks, and just get into rhythm with each other to make the evening go well. Not too much talking.

Not “who had the worst day” competitions. Just smiling at each other and breathing a deep breath in. Since

If you are parenting alone, then a caring friend is absolutely essential. You can feel your body letting go of stress when someone who loves you meets your eye, gives you a hug, is clearly happy to see you. We can do this for each other, we parents. Us oldies with our scrawny necks and big soft eyes can look out for the young struggling parents in our street or family circle.

When parents feel loved, then they can love their children more. Together we make the world get better.

Steve’s new online talk THE FULLY HUMAN PARENT is being offered by Manningham City Council on June 7th - booking link: https://www.trybooking.com/BZAAB

Be prepared before you hit the road THE following is a message from VACC Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Gwilym:

and a portable phone charger. Take cash, a torch and spare batteries, blankets and water. Carrying jumper leads is also essential.

We are approaching school holiday time and for many families that may mean the first road trip in a long while.

■ Importantly, tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.

Driving is an economical and fun way to create a memorable holiday but, whether you’re going off-road or glamping, things won’t always turn out how you plan them.

When it comes to road safety, the two most important things you can influence are the condition of your vehicle and your ability to drive it with care and concentration.

So, here are some tips to get you there safely.

■ You should regularly conduct both internal and external visual checks of your vehicle: check whether your seatbelts, lights (including indicators and brake lights) are functioning correctly, and if there is any dangerous body or windscreen damage. Inspect all tyres for wear and ensure they’re inflated to the recommended pressure – that goes 4 Winter 2022

■ There will be lots of people on the roads during the holidays. Be patient, be courteous, and take regular rest breaks.

Make sure you and your family make it to your destination and back safely these school holidays.

Picture: Supplied

for trailers and caravans, too.

■ Before heading off, check you have a roadworthy spare tyre and wheel on board, and you know how to change it.

■ Never change a tyre on the side of the road if there’s traffic close to your vehicle. Call a breakdown service instead.

■ If towing a caravan, trailer or boat, connect it properly, checking all

lights work, and you have correctly positioned the driving mirrors.

■ It is also important to make sure you know how to safely manoeuvre your vehicle and the load behind. If your skills need brushing up, be sure to practice before you leave home.

■ Fill up your tank and carry spare fuel in a safe container if you visit remote areas.

■ Keep a first aid kit in your vehicle

Maintaining your vehicle in optimum condition is a partnership involving you and your local repairer. Keeping your vehicle serviced and maintained by a trusted automotive technician is crucial.

A thorough professional inspection using up-to-date specialist equipment can detect dangerous deficiencies, like worn brake pads and leaking brake lines, degraded suspension components, and misaligned wheels.

Importantly, never stop learning.

Road safety is not everyone else’s responsibility. It is yours. So, make sure you and your vehicle are fit for the road, and that way, we can all have a fun and safe holiday. www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

It’s Your Life

Longing for community

Angelie and her daughter Talia. Picture: Rob Carew

By Casey Neill A PARENTING culture clash caught Woori Yallock mum Angelie Chandler off-guard when daughter Talia arrived.

Born and raised in the Philippines, Angelie longs for the village-style approach to parenting she witnessed growing up.

She’d always wanted to be a mum, but wasn’t sure if she’d ever be ready for the challenge.

After three years of trying naturally with husband Allan, she went in for endometriosis surgery and followed up with medications, intrauterine insemination (IUI) and, finally, IVF. She experienced bad side effects from the injections and had to pause for her hormones to balance out, and doctors had to increase her dosage because of her endometriosis, which meant two injections instead of one.

But it was all worth it - they got four embryos.

“So I don’t have to do the injections again,” she said.

They conceived Talia on their first transfer, but news that they were finally pregnant wasn’t the joyous moment they’d longed for.

“Even Allan said, because it was expected, you didn’t get the ‘oh yay’. It was ‘oh it worked’,” Angelie said.

“It took away a bit of the excitement.

It’s not like a natural excitement. It’s a different type of excitement.”

An 18-hour labour at The Angliss ended in a forceps delivery in theatre.

“She had to go to special care for a night, so they fed her there and did what they needed to and I was able to sleep the first night,” she said.

“That was the last sleep I got for a year and a half.”

Angelie had to wake Talia every two hours to feed her, to grow her tiny 2 kilogram birth weight. www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

“It was harder than I thought,” she said of motherhood.

“It was such a shock, and a bad shock.

“Being Filipino, what I saw growing up…

“What I experienced here was isolating and it didn’t help that there was Covid isolation on top of that.

“I think I had all these expectations that it was different back home to here.

“You don’t have to drive. It’s a small community, the other parents and kids are there.

“Even your neighbours would help out with your kids while you sleep or something.

“You have help here, but it’s not as constant or consistent as there.

“Most of my family members there, nieces and nephews, it would just be expected that they help out.

“It doesn’t matter how old they are. If they’re 10, 12, and capable of doing a task, they help out.

“My head’s just there.

“I feel like in that environment she (Talia) would thrive a lot more.”

Angelie is struggling with the idea of having another child without the community support network she craves.

“I’m scared to go through that again,” she said.

“It’s really hard knowing what it would be like back home, but I’m doing the exact opposite.”

She works to bring touches of her homeland to her parenting life in Australia, like speaking to Talia in Filipino.

“Eventually I’ll put her into Filipino school. She is three quarters Filo. It would be good for her to know even just the language,” she said.

Angelie urged prospective mums to build their community before adding a

Talia.

baby to the mix, and to consider what they wanted motherhood to be.

“Picture what will work for your family and for you, and prepare for that life,” she said.

Having said that, she found maternity leave changed her perspective.

“What I used to want to be career-

wise, it’s not as satisfying anymore,” she said.

“I don’t want anything taking up my time that’s not worthy of taking my time away from Talia.

“But it still needs to financially serve us as a family. I wish I’d thought more about it before Talia.”

Winter 2022 5

It’s Your Life

Beetroot Red Velvet Cupcakes

Beetroot is a superfood, according to Lucy.

IF you ask me, beetroots are a proper superfood for kids.

They’re packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamins A, E, C & K, and B vitamins, all of which help kids brains to function optimally and keep their heart and blood vessels happy. If you’re child suffers from low iron – a common condition I see in kids today, especially among picky eaters – then beetroots may help them to beet it (get it?) thanks to the plant-based iron they contain too.

Beetroots are an excellent source of fibre that supports healthy digestion, gut function and elimination. The naturally occurring nitrates in beetroots can help improve the efficiency of our energyproducing cells making them a great energy-boosting food for active kids too.

Beetroots are also considered a ‘good mood food’ because they contain

in the kitchen with Lucy Stewart compounds that help to calm and relax the mind and contribute to a sense of well-being and happiness.

Let’s not forget about the beauty of beetroots ruby red hue either that make for a wonderful sensory experience for kids.

When veggies look this good, there’s no need to hide them and beetroot’s earthy sweetness works perfectly with a hint of chocolate in these cupcakes.

Getting kids involved in the kitchen is fun for all.

Ingredients: Cupcakes: ■ 2 medium beetroots, washed, peeled and grated

Topping: ■ 2 cups thick Greek or coconut yoghurt ■ Zest of 1 lemon

■ 1 cup almond meal

■ 1 Tbsp pure maple syrup

■ ½ cup brown rice flour

Instructions: 1. Preheat oven to 180’C and line 6 muffin pans with muffin cases or use a silicone muffin pan.

■ 1/3 cup cacao powder ■ 1/3 cup pure maple syrup ■ ¼ cup olive oil ■ 2 free-range eggs ■ 1 tsp baking powder ■ 1 tsp vanilla extract ■ ½ tsp cinnamon ■ Pinch of sea salt

Pictures: Studio 74 Photography

2. Add all ingredients to a highpowered blender and process until you have a smooth batter.

3. Divide the mixture evenly between muffin cases and cook for 40-minutes.

4. To make the topping, mix all ingredients together until combined and spread over the top of your cooled cupcakes.

Beetroots are an excellent source of fibre

6 Winter 2022

www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

It’s Your Life to go from one place to another to access essential early childhood services and support.

“I’m extremely proud we’re making it easier for our community to do so in a one-stop-shop.”

The proposed two-room facility would look to support the roll-out of the State Government’s three-year-old kindergarten program and provide: ■ An additional 132 kindergarten spaces.

■ A uniquely designed area for playgroups that provides for children with additional needs such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), by including an outdoor education area with a sensory focus.

■ A bespoke immunisation area for children with additional needs who are unable to attend the general community sessions.

A new early years hub will be built in Monash.

will be the third of its kind in Monash.

New early years hub for Monash MONASH is set to become home to a third Early Years Hub, following the endorsement of a plan to construct a purpose-built facility on the site of the former Waverley Gymnastics Centre.

The new facility will offer improved access to kindergarten and additional supports for young children and their families in Mount Waverley.

The Dorrington Drive Early Years Hub

Monash Mayor Stuart James said the proposal supported the council’s Early Years Infrastructure Plan, which was endorsed in 2021.

“This exciting project will deliver on Council’s vision for all children and young people in Monash to have the best opportunities to grow, learn and thrive in a strong and supported community,” Cr James said.

“As a parent of young children, I have experienced first-hand how difficult it can be for parents and carers

■ A purpose designed area for the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Sleep and Settling Service, which would include the co-location of the MCH lactation program.

■ A community space for the provision of programs such as Family Services.

Further design work will be undertaken over the coming months and the council will work with the local community and nearby Huntingtower School to ensure the facility meets needs, both in terms of access to services and residential amenity.

New play area NOW OPEN! Come on kids, it’s time to play.

Join the fun at Stud Park Shopping Centre.

Stud Park Shopping Centre, Cnr Stud and Fulham Roads, Rowville

12551850-JC25-22

www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

Winter 2022 7

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www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

It’s Your Life

Lighting up the winter nights IMAGINATIONS will run wild at the inaugural EMERGE festival, which will take over the Mount Waverley Community Centre gardens for five nights this winter.

Presented by Monash Council, EMERGE will lift community spirits with evocative lighting and projections, impressive soundscapes and installations as well entertaining roving performers.

As darkness falls, a range of impressive large-scale lanterns created

by The Lanternist will illuminate the beautiful gardens and welcome visitors for a nocturnal experience throughout the grounds.

The gardens will be transformed with more than 45 glowing art installations highlighting a range of Australian animals, including a frog, possum, goanna, platypus, echidna and butterflies.

Throughout the night engaging performers will delight crowds with fire, bubbles, UV lighting, glowing body paint, spinning LED Hula Hoops and

outrageous roving Mirror-Ball suits.

On opening night, the eight-piece band JAZZ PARTY will warm up the crowds with RnB inspired tunes and the powerhouse circus and dance showcase Fresh! by Fresh Creative Entertainment will blow people’s socks off during the closing night festivities.

“EMERGE is a special free experience where families and our community can come together to explore some amazing light and sound installations during the evening in our magnificent gardens,” Cr James said.

“After what has been a challenging two years, we’re proud to be supporting our arts and culture community while activating a space not commonly used in our events.”

The EMERGE festival was funded through the budget of the cancelled Monash Carols by Candlelight event in 2021.

Keeping siblings together in care MELBOURNE residents Michelle and Stephen Duke, along with their three children, have been providing foster care to local children from the region for about six years.

In March 2019, the family of five welcomed three siblings needing care into their home.

“We thought that if we can keep these kids together, they’re going to feel better about themselves, who they are and where they come from,” Michelle said.

“Life is definitely busy with three extra children at home – but in the moments when you see the children interact with each other, and with our children, it’s all worth it.”

The gardens will be transformed with more than 45 glowing art installations highlighting a range of Australian animals.

Throughout the night engaging performers will delight crowds with fire, bubbles, UV lighting, glowing body paint, spinning LED Hula Hoops and outrageous roving Mirror-Ball suits.

G N I L SIB A E M ARER BECO RC E T S FO

more quickly in a foster placement and makes them happier overall.

“I think there’s a misconception that you have to have a large family home in order to foster siblings – you don’t.

“What you do need is to be able to provide a safe, supportive and loving home, and a commitment to the wellbeing of the children you’re caring for.”

Michelle said her own children have really grown as a result of being foster carers, having developed a sense of love and understanding for people who might not have been as fortunate as they are.

According to Bronwyn Kellett, foster care recruitment specialist at Anglicare Victoria, there aren’t enough foster carers in Melbourne’s east who are willing to take on sibling groups.

“When the children are laughing and playing and the stress of their situation isn’t present, that’s what makes our hearts feel full, and that what we’re doing is worthwhile,” she said.

Sadly, this often means children going into care are separated from their brothers and sisters, as carers who are open to taking multiple children aren’t always available.

Anglicare Victoria’s foster carers receive 24-hour on-call support, ongoing training and are reimbursed for any out-of-pocket expenses related to care.

“We don’t want to separate these kids, we want to keep them together if possible,” Bronwyn said.

If you are interested in becoming a foster carer with Anglicare Victoria, call 1300 889 335 or visit anglicarevic. org.au/fostering.

“We know that it helps them settle

Michelle and Stephen Duke.

Monash Mayor Stuart James said EMERGE would bring colour and light to Monash, while supporting artists who lost so much during the pandemic.

Children in foster care need their brothers and sisters. Help keep children together by fostering siblings.

Find out how you can play a part in your local community. Attend a Foster Care online information session. You’ll learn all about the different types of foster care and what becoming a carer involves.

It doesn’t matter if you are working or at home, in a relationship or single or whether you have kids.

Everyone can make a difference.

Scan here for more information

Information Sessions: 7.30 – 8.30pm Wednesday 22 June Thursday 21 July Tuesday 23 August To Register: 1300 889 335 | www.anglicarevic.org.au/fostering 12549667-SN25-22

www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

Winter 2022 9

Explore the WHALE DISCOVERY TRAIL’S iconic bays, headlands and beaches as you search for whales from spectacular coastal viewing points.

Western Port GROSSARD POINT The site of Captain Grossard’s 1868 burial after a tragic accident.

Watch for whales entering the bay close to shore.

Cowes PHILLIP ISLAND

WESTERN PORT Humpbacks have been spotted from this jetty, and bottlenose dolphins can be seen in the bay all year round.

San Remo

PUNCHBOWL Follow the spectacular George Bass Coastal Walk and look out for whales from the high cliffs overlooking the wild waters of Bass Strait.

CAPE PATERSON HARMERS HAVEN SUMMERLANDS

PYRAMID ROCK A dramatic basalt outcrop, home to short-tailed shearwaters, black-faced cormorants and sooty oystercatchers.

CAPE WOOLAMAI A large colony of shorttailed shearwaters return from Alaska annually to breed here. Look out for albatross and sea eagles soaring above.

Bass Strait

Wonthaggi

EAGLES NEST Site of Australia’s first dinosaur bone discovery, the Cape Paterson Claw, in 1903. The sedimentary rocks are 115 millions years old.

Inverloch

12547799-JW25-22

Home to great surf and the world’s largest Little Penguin colony. Shorttailed shearwaters and hooded plovers live here too.

In 1826 Captain William Hovell discovered coal here and in 1901 the Artisan ran aground at nearby Wreck Beach.

Bunurong Marine Park encompasses rock platforms and underwater reefs. This is a great spot for whale spotting and snorkelling.

To find out more visit visitphillipisland.com.au

10 Winter 2022

www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

It’s Your Life

The playground includes activity panels, soft play, maze play and a toddler slide.

Stud Park’s new play area STUD Park Shopping Centre, located in Rowville, launched a new playground in the centre court mall space earlier this year.

The new playground is an exciting upgrade for the shopping centre, part of the centre’s plan to improve the

customer experience for local families.

Michael Degering, Stud Park centre manager, says “the modern playground design is inclusive for children aged 8 years and under and provides a larger space for children to play together.”

“It has many great features to

engage children in this age group and is a welcomed update for our centre.”

The new play area is a bigger construction than previous and includes a variety of design features such as activity panels, soft play, maze play and a toddler slide.

Phillip Island

The new playground is located near Just Jeans, in the centre court area of Stud Park Shopping Centre, and is intended to create a community hub space.

Parents and carers can enjoy a coffee while watching the kids play.

See humpback and southern right whales at Phillip Island.

Have a whale of a time on Phillip Island

WHAT’S so special about being on Phillip Island during winter?

Witnessing the arrival of humpback and southern right whales into our coastal waters.

Pack up the family and explore the Phillip Island and Bass Coast Whale Discovery Trail, featuring some of the finest vantage points in the region.

Grab some warm clothing and a pair of binoculars, head out to one of the fantastic lookouts and trails from Phillip Island to Inverloch, and marvel at the area’s stunning landscapes along the way.

Those wanting to get closer to the www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

marine giants can join one of the Wildlife Coast Cruises whale and dolphin boat tours that circumnavigate the island in search of whales.

Join in the local celebrations of the arrival of these majestic creatures with a range of special events happening at Island Whale Festival weekend, 1 to 3 July, at various venues across Phillip Island.

Local community and visitors alike have the opportunity to engage with a range of activities that will not only entertain but also allow you to appreciate the wildlife and natural habitats of Phillip Island and the Bass Coast region.

During the festival, choose from various activities and events, including talks, workshops, whale spotting, whale cruises, kids activities and more.

Stay up to date with the latest announcements, including program and booking information, at Islandwhales.com.au and follow @ islandwhales on Facebook and Instagram.

Book your winter whale escape and explore more things to see and do this winter at visitphillipisland.com.au.

Remember to look after the coastal environment by watching out for wildlife on the roads and by keeping to the designated tracks.

Island Whale Festival runs on the first weekend in July.

Winter 2022 11

It’s Your Life

365 days of play to while the winter away WINTER is upon us.

As the sun shines less and the sky rains more, we may find ourselves spending more time inside as a family trying to entertain children of all different ages.

The stress of entertaining children can seem overwhelming when sending them outdoors is not an option.

Geelong mum Erica Carew says she will not let us return to the lockdown lives we lead in 2020 by turning ourselves inside out trying to find ways to entertain the newborn, the toddler and the primary school student at the same time.

Here are three of my favourite activities and the simple ways to adapt them regardless of whether your children are 3 months, 3 years or even in Grade 3 at school.

Treasure hunts ■ 6 months - Have baby on their tummy or sitting up and place some items close by them. Cover these items with a cloth and help baby to discover what is hiding underneath.

■ 12 months - Place larger and well loved items in easy to see places around the house. Maybe it’s a teddy sitting on a chair at the table, in their bed or in the bath and ask your little one to help you find them.

■ 2 years - Now that your little one is on the move, have them search for well loved and recognised items. Draw or show them pictures of the items you have hidden or items they might find around the house.

From this age you can also start using our treasure hunt printables.

There are a few ways to use these printables.

Print two copies of these images, cut one up and sticky tape or blue tack them to door frames, furniture, walls or even tree trunks outside. Once these images are found you can take them back to ‘home base’ and match them with the second printed copy.

Give your little one a copy of the treasure hunt list and have them go and find the items in the image. We often place the printout in the middle of the floor and then make a circle around using the items we find.

■ 6 years - As our children grow we can begin to involve them in the set up of play activities. Take turns where one of you hides the items and the other has to go and find them.

Another option is to draw a map and have x’s in the spots where the items might be hidden.

Our treasure hunt printables are also perfect for any age.

Obstacle courses The main thing you have to think of is - How can my child move using these obstacles?

Over, under, around and past.

The next question is - How will they move?

Jump, skip, hop, crawl and run In which direction?

Forwards, backwards, in a circle or a straight line.

12 Winter 2022

Make sure you are only providing activities for your children that you know they have the motor skills to participate in and make sure they are safe.

■ 6 months - Carry baby over, under and around obstacles in your house.

Holding them in your arms like they are an aeroplane is another great way for baby to participate in this style of activity and is also great for their neck strength.

■ 12 months - Set up an obstacle course that provides opportunities for them to challenge their bodies abilities and to practise new skills. Have them climb over pillow mountains, crawl under chairs and tables and walk while holding onto tables.

shares a simple way to play for every day of the year. These activities have been created for children 0-6 years of age however many of the activities have the ability to be adapted to be perfect for the whole family.

Many more simple and easy play ideas like these can be found in her book 365 Ways to Play and over on her instagram page @chroniclesofplay.

Picture: Arm Lee Carlon Photography @myleecarlonphotography

■ 2 years- Set up the course around the house using everyday household items. Crawl under the table, climb over the bed, skip around the laundry basket. Trial it first by showing them how to move around each obstacle.

■ 6 years- Set up an obstacle course as above however this time you can also introduce more language around how they can move through the course. Jump over the pillows like a kangaroo, do the entire course backwards, time how quick each person can make it through the obstacle course and even encourage them to discover new ways of moving around the same objects in your house. They could pretend the floor is lava and they have to get from point A to point B without falling in.

*Painting* ■ 6 months- Slide a piece of paper inside a zip lock bag, add a few drops of paint on to the paper and close the bag. Tape this bag to the floor or high chair and baby can finger paint without the mess.

■ 12 months- FInger painting time.

Tape a piece of paper to the bottom of a plastic tub and add a few drops of different coloured paint. Now they can finger paint and mix up colours without the risk of the paint sliding off the edge of the paper.

■ 2 years- Find different objects that can be used as paint brushes. Forks, foil, cotton wool balls, sticks and bubble wrap all make some really interesting patterns. A great way of using these items is to attach a peg to them and use the peg as the ‘paint brush handle’ ■ 6 years- Recycling and painting into one. Pick a box out of the recycling bin and be inspired. Use some paint, stickers, pom poms and pipe cleaners and turn the simple box into an amazing creation. Is it a castle? Is it a robot? Is it a race car? Your imagination is your only limit!

Erica’s ethos and ideas are not about being grand, they are all about using what we have at home to create fun, play experiences for our children.

Simple little tweaks to each of these activities will hopefully have your children entertained for long periods of time as this wintery weather sets in.

In her book ‘365 Ways to Play’ she www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

Education

Returning to work and feeling safe WHETHER you are returning to work after a period of working from home or returning to work after having a baby, you might be having feelings of anxiety about health and hygiene.

And these feelings may not be limited to yourself.

Childcare allows many of us to continue our careers and to work to provide for our families.

It also provides opportunities for our children to learn, grow and socialise.

But how can you ensure they are safe and stay well?

Platypus Junction Mulgrave is the first Childcare Centre and Kindergarten to install medical-grade Pierlite Aether UV-C HEPA light fittings into the centre, to support a safer environment for young children and their families.

The filtration system has also been

installed in St Vincent Private Hospital birthing suites and a prominent Melbourne secondary school.

Air is filtered with H13 HEPA and UV-C LED purifying technology and 99.995 per cent of airborne pathogens are removed – including Covid-19 and Influenza.

The devices provide peace of mind for parents, and in the nursery and toddler spaces, will support the wellness of children and educators.

At Platypus Junction Mulgrave, children enjoy their day playing, learning and following their interests with plenty of care and nurturing from the experienced team.

The rooftop garden provides a safe and fun space to run, ride, climb and play outside in the fresh air, with plenty to explore and experience.

At Platypus Junction Mulgrave, children enjoy their day playing, learning and following their interests.

There are currently limited places available in the nursery and toddler spaces for children under three years old.

Interested parents can call or visit platypusjunction.com.au.

+ Purpose-built centre with rooftop garden at 5 Nexus Court, Mulgrave

Visit platypusjunction.com.au or call 9560 5777 12551599-JC25-22

www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

Winter 2022 13

Education

Striving for excellence

Enrol the whole family

ST BERNADETTE’S, The Basin is nestled at the base of the Dandenong Ranges in a beautiful rural-style setting unmatched by any other school in the suburbs of Melbourne.

The Dandenong Ranges tower over the school and provide a stunning backdrop to the natural environment and expansive grounds upon which the school is built.

Holy Saviour celebrates individual differences and believes that all students are capable of achieving positive growth in all areas of learning.

HOLY SAVIOUR is a welcoming community in which all aspects of a child’s development are catered for, in partnership with parents and the broader community.

Our personalised approach to learning and the provision of contemporary learning spaces, enables all our students to flourish personally, academically and spiritually.

Holy Saviour celebrates individual differences and believes that all students are capable of achieving positive growth in all areas of learning.

This year, to extend our already comprehensive suite of supportive programs (such as Reading Recovery and Maths Olympiads), we have introduced our BOOST Program – an intervention and enrichment program for all our students.

When a child enrols at Holy Saviour, so does the whole family!

St Bernadette’s is a school where the student is at the centre of everything that the school strives for.

The students are always at the centre of all we do and we actively seek to engage parents as partners in the educational journey of their children.

St Bernadette’s provides Catholic school values and education for all school members, but also celebrates and serves the diverse wider community that they are part of by welcoming those from other traditions and faith backgrounds as well as families from a non-faith background.

Parents help to illuminate our knowledge of students in a way that helps us to reimagine the way schools and families can work together to achieve the best possible outcomes for all.

Holy Saviour’s students are proud, capable and have a strong sense of social justice but more importantly, they are kind people ready to make a positive contribution to the world around them.

Within a school of about 200 students, learning and wellbeing is personalised to ensure that every child achieves success and is learning at their point of need.

Learning is strongest when learners are engaged within the St Bernadette’s community and it is this community that sets them apart from others.

I invite you to come and see us in action, to gain an insight into the unique relationships that we share with our delightful children and their families.

Email principal@hsvs.catholic.edu.au or call 9803 6828.

At the heart of the school is the desire for the full flourishing of each of the students – their religious,

Steve Evans, Principal

The student is at the centre of everything the school strives for.

physical, cognitive, emotional and social learning.

The single word that resonates with everyone at St Bernadette’s is ‘commUNITY’. The community is filled with wonderful students, supportive and welcoming parents and amazingly dedicated staff.

The students at St Bernadette’s are supported to engage in a broad range of learning experiences both within and beyond the classroom.

More information is provided at www.sbthebasin.catholic.edu.au, where you can also book a personalised school tour.

1264 MOUNTAIN HIGHWAY, THE BASIN VIC 3154

'The Little School with a Big Difference'

Find out why BOOK A SCHOOL TOUR TODAY!

Call 9762 5135 for an individual school tour or visit www.sbthebasin.catholic.edu.au for more detailed enrolment information

14 Winter 2022

12548363-NG25-22

12517844-NG09-22

www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

School Tour Open Days Tuesday 19th and Wednesday 20th July 9.30 am - 2.00 pm.

RSVP 8761 9600 office@sjscoresby.catholic.edu.au 12550638-AI25-22

www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

Winter 2022 15

ensure students understand the format of the tests and provide appropriate support and guidance.

Education

By having confidence in their teaching of literacy and numeracy, they do not spend excessive time coaching and cramming skills into students for the tests in the weeks prior.

What do I do if my child’s NAPLAN results show they are behind or ahead of other students?

It is important to look at NAPLAN as a snapshot of your child’s literacy and numeracy skills at a given time.

NAPLAN does not replace the ongoing assessments teachers make about your child’s performance, nor will it define their future.

Upon receiving the NAPLAN results, ensure you understand what the results are showing.

The results are designed to show your child’s individual performance.

This will be shown for each area of literacy and numeracy assessed against a national measurement scale.

If you need assistance in understanding or are concerned about the report received, seek assistance from your child’s school.

Teachers will review your child’s NAPLAN assessment results and compare with formal and informal assessments, including observations of your child’s progress in the classroom to personalise your child’s learning whether it be extension or support Individual NAPLAN results can form an opportunity to discuss your child’s progress with their teacher and ways in which you can support their learning at home.

NAPLAN results are designed to show your child’s individual performance.

NAPLAN and determining future NAPLAN, the National Assessment Program, is conducted each year by The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) for all students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9.

In May this year, for the first time all schools completed the tests online for reading, writing, spelling, grammar and punctuation, and numeracy.

Every year there are experts who argue for and against NAPLAN, a multitude of resources are marketed to parents enticing them to purchase to give their child an edge over other

Schools will use results more broadly to identify strengths and areas of need to improve teaching programs, and to set goals in literacy and numeracy.

students, and some schools divert their regular teaching and learning programs to focus on preparation of students for the test.

they teach and how they teach by using a range of assessments to gain feedback on students’ strengths and weaknesses.

It is therefore not surprising that these practices result in unnecessary stress and anxiety, as they reduce the breadth of student learning experiences and place pressure on them to perform.

Instead of using standardised tests and grades to drive the learning process, their teachers use dynamic learning experiences that foster student engagement and promote deeper learning, which ultimately increase student outcomes.

But how much benefit do they play in the student’s end results?

Good schools are continuously making informed decisions on what

These schools focus on continuous literacy and numeracy skills development and while they are,

Parents can encourage the ongoing development of literacy and numeracy skills through application in activities outside of school, eg measurement, shopping etc.

Gail Major, Principal, Scoresby Secondary College Scoresby Secondary College was announced in March in the top 10 schools in Victoria for highest student growth in reading, writing and numeracy.

Excellent student outcomes at St Jude’s ST JUDE’S School is a welcoming community built on the foundations of a strong Catholic Parish. We welcome all families, Catholic and non-catholic, celebrate diversity and offer outstanding educational programs and extra-curricular opportunities.

We believe in developing children with a strong sense of self-worth.

We know that small positive actions matter every day - a welcoming smile, an understanding nod, a listening ear, a word of encouragement.

Our students know we care and in turn care about themselves, each other and their learning.

Our Positive Behaviours for Learning program outlines all the ways that you can ‘Be Your Best Self’.

This behavioural framework is organised under the headings: Be 16 Winter 2022

Respectful, Be Safe and Be Responsible.

Every student works towards being a GEM! Someone who shows Gratitude, is Empathetic by being kind to others, and practices Mindfulness.

St Jude’s received a commendation for our approach to Student Wellbeing and a special mention for our Wellbeing Centre - The Well.

The Well is open before school, during play times and after school. It is a place where adults and children can come to simply ‘Be Well’ by: enjoying their favourite activities, socialising, catching up with a friend or even speaking to staff about how to improve mental health and Wellbeing.

We have highly skilled classroom teachers, a speech pathologist and occupational therapist, who solely focus on extension and intervention strategies.

The St Jude’s LEAP program is an effective initiative in meeting student academic needs, from supporting those needing extra assistance right through to the high flyers who need extension.

Many of our students are working well beyond their year level’s curriculum standards and enjoy our acceleration programs in English, maths, science, music and Italian.

Every student works towards being a GEM! Someone who shows Gratitude, is Empathetic by being kind to others, and practices Mindfulness.

School tours are available upon request. Call 8761 9600.

Visit www.sjscoresby.catholic.edu.au for a digital tour.

Tim McMullen, Principal

www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

It’s Your Life

Getting your teens involved in a weekly routine, including chores, is a great start.

Creating routine for teens

By Melissa Meehan

you can start to delegate some of the easy tasks to the kids,” she said.

WITH five kids, Surrey Hills mum Nicole Avery has to be organised.

“At the start it feels like it takes double the time, but it frees up alot of time in the long run and give the kids a sense of purpose.”

Her kids range from 12 to 22-yearsold – her youngest started high school this year and her eldest began his first post-graduate job.

Planning was not always something she’d been good at or focused on, she still doesn’t claim to be an expert.

She’s just had a lot of practice.

She’s been working online, working with Planning with Kids since 2008.

They key to success?

Learn to delegate. It not only benefits you, but it sets your teens up for success too.

“For me, it was pure basics,” Ms Avery told Kids Today.

“That included making lunches at night - it only takes 15 minutes in the evening, but in the morning it takes so much longer because you’re directing traffic.”

She said she’d often get frazzled and stressed by making the lunches in the morning, but it was no problem at all in the calm of the night - and even better when the kids are old enough to make their own.

If you are already planned, organised about what needs to happen

www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

Once they’ve handled the lunch box, Ms Avery then gets them involved in the whole process of going to the shops and understanding where it comes from.

Then they are asked to put the shopping away. Which at the start can be a chaos that those of us with perfectly manicured pantries have nightmares about.

But soon enough they learn that when they go to make their lunch or snack and the items they want aren’t where they should be.

And they’ll start understanding why everything has its place.

It takes a little time to get going, but creating simple systems like this are a great foundation for letting your young teens understand why routines and planning are so important.

“It’s the whole education process and now they know what do,” she says.

“There’s some huge things you can do in terms of getting kids to do stuff for themselves and for the family.”

Find out more at www.planningwithkids.com

Nicole Avery is a mum of five.

Winter 2022 17

It’s Your Life

The juggle is real Ashley with her daughter.

By Casey Neill

Ashley also counted herself lucky to be “in this generation of women who have access to tech and devices that can help monitor my blood sugars more closely”.

FEARS and concerns are often front of mind during pregnancy.

For most, diabetes doesn’t need to be one of them, but it topped the list for Cranbourne mum Ashley Ng.

During pregnancy, she was adjusting to physical and hormonal changes while also managing her food intake.

“We tried as much as we could to plan things ahead so we wouldn’t have any unexpected surprises,” the type one diabetic said.

“Food is the main contributor to fluctuating blood sugars - it was always at the forefront of my mind,” Ashley said.

“It was one of my biggest worries: how was diabetes going to play out.”

“At the start it was actually quite nice.

In the first trimester when everything’s growing and developing, that’s when we often get low blood sugars.

Everyone labelled her daughter, who was 15 months old when we spoke in March, a ‘lockdown baby’.

“But it was planned, in that we’d got married, got a house, and the next logical step was to have kids,” she said.

“I knew my biological clock was ticking, especially with a chronic condition like diabetes.”

She climbed back into bed and lay awake for the next two hours, before getting up to double check those two blue lines had really appeared.

“That’s when I woke my husband up,” she said.

“It’s such a mixed bag of emotions.”

Ashley’s diabetes is atypical, so no one could tell her how pregnancy was going to affect the condition or vice versa.

But she had the support of a health care team, including a referral to a specialist.

“Being an automatic high-risk 18 Winter 2022

pregnancy sounds daunting, but it was comforting that extra things were put in place to make sure things were going well,” she said.

“It was a really good safety net for me.

“My first pregnancy was actually really chilled because we were in lockdown most of the time.

“A part of me is still really nervous.

That is probably the biggest thing I’m nervous about,” she said.

Juggling work has also been a challenge, especially when Covid restrictions closed childcare centres.

“I think post-pregnancy was probably where I struggled most.

“You’re expected to work like you don’t have a kid.

Fellow mums with diabetes told Ashley to have snacks on hand and to always sit somewhere low while feeding in case she passed out.Her mum made her a caddy packed with snacks, wipes and nappies to carry around the house.

She’d woken at 4am to use the toilet, so decided to take a test.

Ashley’s second daughter is due in June. She’ll speak to a midwife for advice on preparing for a smoother breastfeeding journey.

“I was keen to go back to work, but I really struggled in terms of trying to balance it all,” she said.

“You can see your blood sugars plummeting as you’re breastfeeding.”

“It wasn’t a surprise, but it was also a surprise and an ‘oh crap’ moment - this is actually happening,” she laughed.

“I chose one day when I was in an OK mood and pushed through it.

Something just clicked for both of us, and we just got it.”

“I could think ‘I’m going to have that ice cream’ and I wouldn’t have to worry so much.

“When you’re trying to breastfeed, it sucks the energy out of you.

Ashley and her husband conceived within a couple of months.

breastfeeding could help with the clog.

Adding to the challenge, her daughter was born with a tongue tie and struggled to latch.

“Breastfeeding was really painful. I wasn’t sure if I was doing something wrong,” Ashley said.

“I ended up exclusively pumping for a little bit because I found it way easier.

“I was working from home. There was no pressure to go anywhere or be super busy.

“There was a lot of pressure from everyone in terms of ‘you really should be just breastfeeding off the boob rather than using a machine’.

“So I think that was a blessing in disguise.”

“I ended up getting mastitis a couple of weeks in. Even the GP said

“You have two jobs.”

And both cause guilt. That built up recently when her husband had to work extra hours.

“It broke me. I had to make an appointment with the GP and make a mental health care plan,” Ashley said.

“The GP said ‘you need to start to let things go, understand that pre-baby you were a high achiever, you were probably a perfectionist, you did a lot of things with your life, but now priorities have changed’.

“It’s about adjusting your expectations.

“But I really don’t want to adjust my expectations. I want to be able to do it all.

“A few friends said to me ‘being able to do everything is a myth, there’s a time and place for everything’.

“Sometimes you have to pause things and come back to them.” www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

It’s Your Life

Charlotte Rasmussen at her desk

Letting nature guide you

By Melissa Meehan WHEN Charlotte Rasmussen came to Australia, she found it difficult to find natural, organic skincare products and remedies similar to those she had used in her upbringing in Scandinavia.

When her daughter was young, she suffered from eczema and was not keen on putting strong chemicals on her face – so the single mum of three from Ocean Grove made her own.

Once the other parents at mums group saw what her natural oils could achieve they asked her to make them some, and then more and more products.

And her business was born. Almost by accident.

Charlotte launched From Earth, a business that became an organic reality as others were looking for the same natural remedies.

Her aim is to re-educate others about skincare and haircare, and shed more light on natural remedies.

That was almost seven years ago.

From humble beginnings in her kitchen in 2017, to having her own store in Torquay,(which sadly closed during the pandemic) her now successful business ships products across Australia and overseas.

From Earth is her first book.

It came about after chatting with some people at a trades show.

“I wasn’t planning on becoming an author but I was telling people how easy and simple it is to make your own products,” she told Kids Today.

“Someone said you should write a book, and because English isn’t my first language I wasn’t so sure – but I strongly believe that this is stuff people should know.

‘It’s like cooking in the kitchen, once you know what ingredients are good for www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

Product on display

Pictures: Ivan Kemp

you can make a delicious meal.”

In the new book, From Earth: Create Your Own Natural Apothecary Charlotte has written an accessible and practical guide to home apothecary.

Whether you need moisturiser for dry skin or a decongestant for your child, discover the natural benefits and properties found in various roots, flowers, herbs found all over the globe to make your own soaps, skincare, fragrances and shampoos without nasty chemicals or parabens.

Charlotte said that there is a trend to move away from chemicals towards natural health, especially parents buying for their babies.

“I’d love it to become basic knowledge for people to know,” she said.

“It’s much easier than people think.”

Charlotte’s book Winter 2022 19

Books

Turning the tables in the morning

By Casey Neill

special moments in the day, even during challenging times.”

WAKING up her ‘reluctant riser’ daughter every morning inspired author Sharon Giltrow to pen a humorous and heartfelt picture book.

She hopes both parents and children will see themselves in the book’s pages.

She said Get Ready, Mama! also came from her personal experience as a teacher.

“I see parents arriving at school a little frazzled. I can see that they have had a challenging morning,” Sharon said.

“I wanted to write a sympathetic story for them.

“We are not alone in trying to get reluctant risers up, ready for the day and at school on time.

“My favourite line in the book ‘you’re never too late for cuddles’ - will remind parents to take time for those

“Children will think it is funny seeing a parent playing the role of a child and the child playing the role of a parent,” she said.

“As a parent I wish someone would help me get ready for the day.”

Sharon said the book was also filled with heart, thanks to the child and parent bond portrayed through Arielle Li’s illustrations.

“The book also offers a practical tip - The ‘Get Your Mama Ready Pack’,” she said.

“This is a pack that could be kept in the car for those times when a child hasn’t brushed their hair or teeth.

She said the book would also help

Author Sharon Giltrow.

children to develop empathy.

“Children can literally see a child who has swapped places with a parent,” she said.

“Throughout the story there are great opportunities to discuss how the characters are feeling.

“More importantly how the reader would feel if they were trying to get their mama ready for the day.”

Get Ready, Mama! followed Sharon’s debut picture book Bedtime, Daddy.

“I have two more picture books coming out this year and next year,” she said.

“One is about taking a grandma shopping and the other is about taking a grandpa to the beach.

“So, once these books are released my ‘how to’ picture book family will be complete.”

Children’s books...

WHAT TO SAY WHEN YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT TO SAY From the award-winning author of All the Ways to Be Smart, comes a warm and whimsical guide to negotiating new experiences and big emotions with empathy, kindness and words from the heart.

I’m not brave enough today.

Maybe next time.

You’re hurting my feelings right now. Want to join in?

A warm and whimsical guide to negotiating life’s little moments and big emotions with empathy, kindness and words from the heart.

From award-winning and much-loved author Davina Bell and exciting new illustrator, Hilary Jean Tapper. $21.99 Hachette Australia

Bluey: Perfect Based on the hit ABC KIDS TV show!

It’s Father’s Day! As Bluey and Bingo make cards for Dad, will Bluey learn that sometimes perfect doesn’t have to be . . . perfect?

A gorgeous hardback book with a special wipe-clean card for drawing. This will make the perfect Father’s Day gift.

Bluey is an award-winning preschool show about Bluey, a blue heeler pup, and her family. Airing on ABC KIDS, the show has amassed legions of dedicated fans and hugely popular ranges of books, toys, clothes, games and more. $16.99 Penguin

Willa and Woof 1: Mimi is Missing Adventure, imagination and loads of fun.

From the bestselling author of Alice-Miranda comes this humorous and heartfelt series about eight-year-old Willa and her best four-legged friend, Woof!

Willa’s in trouble. Mimi – the famous racing pigeon owned

by Frank, her neighbour and best old-aged friend – is missing. And Willa is pretty sure she’s the one who left the cage door open . . .

She’ll need her most creative ideas (along with the help of Tae, her best same-age friend, and her trusty sidekick Woof, the albino Irish Wolfhound) to track Mimi down before Frank finds out!

Can Willa find Mimi before it’s too late?

Cop and Robber

L PLATERS

A new nailbiter from the bestselling author of Two Wolves.

A must-read guide for parents of teenage girls that explores what our girls need us to know in order to support them through the unprecedented pressures of growing up in today’s world.

If your mum was a cop and your dad was a crim who needed your help to commit a crime, would you do it to save him? At what cost?

Nash Hall’s dad is a criminal who just can’t seem to go straight. He wants Nash to help him commit a robbery. A big one. The trouble is, Nash’s mum is a cop. And the robbery is at Nash’s school. But Dad owes a lot of money to some very dangerous people and if Nash doesn’t help him do the job, it could cost both their lives.

From the bestselling author of Two Wolves, The Fall and Detention. $16.99 Penguin

To support our girls, we need to understand the pressures this generation is under by listening to what worries them and what they need – and journalist and social commentator Madonna King has done just that.

Having consulted 1000 young women, along with parents, senior educators and health care professionals in her research for this book, L Platers delivers the answers we need as parents to help our girls on the road to adulthood. $16.99 Hachette Australia

$12.99 Penguin 20 Winter 2022

www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

Health

Nitty gritty of the titty

By Casey Neill

appear during the teen years that need to be addressed,” she said.

“I think it’s helpful for all young people to know about boobs, whether they own a pair or not!”

“And boys going through puberty often grow boobs, too!

So Dr Melissa Kang partnered with Yumi Stynes to pen Welcome to Your Boobs.

It’s the third instalment in the ‘Welcome to’ series from the awardwinning duo, following Welcome to Consent and Welcome to Your Period.

Dr Kang responded to hundreds of boob-related questions from teens as the Dolly Doctor for more than 23 years, and from patients in her clinical work.

“Breasts have so much symbolic meaning in our culture - about gender, sex appeal, attractiveness - which can create a lot of layers of anxiety or misunderstanding,” she said.

“They also appear out of nowhere when an adolescent goes through puberty - and that change in one’s body can be enough to generate concerns.”

Dr Kang said breasts also received public attention due to the prevalence of breast cancer.

“This is something I’ve seen plenty of, but is not talked about much.

“It causes no end of distress for some young men.”

health on top half, lift from BGK10 She said understanding was growing about the distress puberty could cause for trans and gender diverse teens, and this was also covered in the book.

Dr Kang hoped the book would alleviate some of the anxiety she’d seen over the years about breast growth and development.

“Breasts are the first sign of puberty in girls and can first appear as young as 8,” she said.

The book answers many common questions.

“So this book is aimed at those early adolescents - somewhere between 8 and 10 - right through to a teen who has finished all their growing.”

about bras, and discussions about boobs as symbols around femininity and sex appeal.

The book covers the biology of breast development and answers common questions about size, shape, nipples, nipple hair, stretchmarks, tenderness, lumps and more.

There’s also practical information

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“So there can be worries about lumps, tenderness, discharge etcetera that

Doctor Melissa Kang.

Dr Kang hoped parents would also find the book useful.

“It can help them have conversations with their teens but might also address myths and misunderstandings parents have, too,” she said.

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School Tour Open Days Tuesday 19th and Wednesday 20th July 9.30 am to 2.00 pm

Stud Park Shopping Centre, Cnr Stud and Fulham Roads, Rowville

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Become a Foster Carer

Book a Tour Today

Learn more at a Free Online Information Session. Register Now.

Call 1300 889 335 or visit www.anglicarevic.org.au/fostering

Call (03) 9765 4100 or visit www.scoresbysc.vic.edu.au Scoresby Secondary College | 2 Cavell Street, Scoresby 3179 12552468-SG25-22

www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

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Winter 2022 21

Kids Calendar

What's on this Winter UNTIL 12 JUNE TOORAK VILLAGE SCULPTURE EXHIBITION Toorak Village links the arts with business to exhibit contemporary sculptural works in the shop windows and on the sidewalks of Toorak Road.

Visit www.toorakvillage.com.au/ sculpture for more information.

23 JUNE - 10 JULY WINTER GLOW Adventure Park Geelong will host a glowing winter wonderland of snow, lights, fire and ice these school holidays.

Entry is free for people under 90cm tall, $29.50 for 90cm to 120cm, and $34.50 for over 120cm.

FIREFLY NIGHT MARKET This fusion of street food, artisan stalls, cultural activities and live performances will run from 4pm to 9pm at Penrose Park, Tarneit. There is fun for the whole family with roving performers, interactive art and more.

Visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au for more information.

Visit www.adventurepark.com.au.

5 JUNE

4 JULY THE KAZOOS Family friendly group The Kazoos brings its dress-up fun to the Knox Community Arts Centre from 11am.

Musical comedy Dress Up Box explores character, gender-identity and role play. Children are invited to the stage to select items out of the box. What they choose directs where the show goes next!

COMMUNITY PLANTING DAY

Tickets are $16 for adults, $12 for kids and $45 for a family of four.

Help Melbourne Water and NatureWest to revegetate the reserve next to Skeleton Creek at Hoppers Crossing.

10 JULY

Visit www.knox.vic.gov.au for more.

The holes will be dug, the plants will be ready from 9.45am to noon. Wear sturdy shoes and gardening gloves.

WINTER CONCERT SERIES Clayton Theatrette will host free kids’ show Cosmic Cats, a cover band for kids and adults alike, from 2pm to 3pm.

Register via www.wyndham.vic.gov. au/greenlivingseries

25 JUNE - 10 JULY 5, 12, 19, 26 & 29 JUNE, 3 & 6 JULY

25 JUNE

MINIATURE RAILWAY

ASHBURTON-A-FAIR

This passenger-carrying miniature railway within the Portarlington Bayside Family Park grounds runs on the first and third Sundays of the month from 11am to 3pm from June to September, plus special school holiday services.

Ashburton Community Centre will host this free market with fun for all ages from 9.30am to 2.30pm.

Trains run at frequent intervals, takes about 10 minutes, costs $4 and is free for children aged under 2 years.

Visit miniaturerailway.com.au for more information.

LUNA PARK Winter school holiday fun at Luna Park will feature heart-pumping thrill rides, family rides, and gentle rides for the little ones. There’s something for everyone.

Visit lunapark.com.au for all the details.

Visit ashburtoncc.org.au for more information.

28-30 JUNE, 1 & 2 JULY

BANTU AFRICAN FEST

PLAYABLE STREETS - REFLECTION

From noon to 5pm at Barwon Valley Activity Centre, Geelong, enjoy live music, drum and dancing performances, food, market stalls and kids’ entertainment.

This interactive installation in Prahran Square features artworks from artists of all ages, as part of the Roola Boola Children’s Arts Festival. It runs 10am to 5pm.

Visit www.geelongaustralia.com.au for more information.

Find more at www.stonnington.vic.gov.au.

18 JUNE AUSTRALIAN GIRLS CHOIR OPEN DAY This free event in Balwyn will run from noon to 2.30pm.

Does your daughter love to sing, dance and perform? The choir offers fun and dynamic classes to transform a love of music into a rich educational experience.

Register at ausgirlschoir.com.au.

22 Winter 2022

Book at www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/891571.

28 & 30 JUNE, 5 & 7 JULY TRASH PUPPETS These free puppet making workshops run from noon to 2.30pm at The Mezz in Prahran. They empower children to get creative using clean recycled and reused materials. They’re recommended for ages 6 to 12 years.

Find more at www.stonnington.vic.gov.au.

15 JULY REGROWTH FESTIVAL Hills Creative Alliance and the Kalorama Collective will host a Regrowth festival at Kalorama Memorial Reserve, including a smoking ceremony, indigenous dances, children’s activities, and tea and cake, from noon to 8pm.

Find more at www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au.

6 AUGUST MSO Classic Kids Join the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra for a wondrous musical promenade through Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition.

This beautiful concert, from 10.30am to 11.30am, sees the concert hall and art gallery merge into one.

Robert Blackwood Hall is at Monash University, 4 Scenic Boulevard, Clayton.

Tickets are $19. Call 9929 9600, email boxoffice@mso.com.au or visit www. mso.com.au. www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

Local Trades & Services ALL TYPES OF CONCRETING

WASHING MACHINES

CALL OR EMAIL MARCUS FOR A FREE QUOTE

0499 559 957 firstclassconcretepaving@gmail.com

“Find out why I’m good at maths and love reading!”

Collector looking for front & top loading automatics, 40 years & older. Brands like Frigidaire, Bendix, Wilkins Servis, Inglis, Simpson & Pope Norge.

Kumon Wantirna South Westfield Knox City Andy 0413 655 951

Leon 0409 637 712

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GARAGES UNIT SITES CROSSOVERS DRIVEWAYS & PATHWAYS PLAIN/COLOURED CONCRETE EXPOSED AGGREGATE KERB & CHANNEL EXCAVATION DRAINAGE MUCH MORE!

WANTED

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Australia’s leading childhood development soccer programs for boys and girls aged 2.5-11years 1 MONTH FREE CLASSES EVERY NEW MEMBER FREE UNIFORM

Fun and social Nurturing environment

NIKOLA TOMIC

Accredited and trained coaches

OCEANIA CHAMPIONSHIPS

Non-competitive and non-elite

NEW CALEDONIA 2022 GOLD MEDAL CHAMPION

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Term based programs Classes held indoors

CONTACT GOLUB TOMIC 0404 855 996

www.yoseikankaratemelbourne.com.au 12553890-AV25-22

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SHOWCASE YOUR BUSINESS ON THIS PAGE. www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au

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Winter 2022 23

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SCORESBY COLLEGE AD FULL PAGE

24 Winter 2022

www.KnoxMonashKids.com.au