Yarra Ranges Kids - Spring 2022

SPRING 2022

Mount Evelyn mum’s births poles apart

Sophie Cachia talks relationships and family Little people, big emotions with

STEVE BIDDULPH

www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

SPRING 2022 1

About Us

Take a deep breath, spring is here!

SPRING has sprung!

Yes, it’s a cliche - writing it made me roll my own eyes a little - but indulge me?

Opportunities for her to stretch her legs and use her outside voice have been few and far between this winter, thanks to rain and cold and illness.

And speaking of great reads, our chat with the ever-honest Sophie Cachia about parenting is a refreshing look at modern parenting.

The transition from our cold and dreary months to this milder season really has put a spring in my step.

A little extra sunshine helps us all to get off the couch and away from screens.

This time of year is brimming with hope. Warmer days are ahead, flowers and foliage are bursting forth, and fingers crossed! - we’re on the other side of a hectic virus season.

If you need more reason to put down the iPad, we spoke to Dr Michael C Nagel about how screen time is causing autistic traits in otherwise neurotypical kids.

Kidsafe has shared some timely reminders to keep our kids safe, and Lucy Stewart has found a healthy chocolate breakfast!

As the mum of a toddler, the prospect of spending more time outdoors is a literal breath of fresh air.

Spring does bring its share of rain, so we’ve found some great new books for your kids to get lost in.

So take a deep breath of that fresh spring air and enjoy its calming effects…before the festive season sneaks up on us.

Yarra Ranges Kids magazine is a Mail News Group publication.

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

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

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

Contents IT’S YOUR LIFE

FATHER’S DAY

REALITY BITES

Mum finds her feet

Rob’s a dad to everyone

Sophie Cachia on family life

PAGE 3

PAGE 9

PAGES 18-19

EDUCATION

BOOKS

Excellent upper school program

Arabella’s Alphabet Adventure

PAGE 12

Discover new children’s books

Free webinars for parents, carers, volunteers

PAGE 20

Weighted blankets warning PAGE 6

PAGE 13

Make crunchy chocolate granola

Good nutrition the key to healthy life

PAGE 7

PAGE 14

Meltdowns turned to closeness

A unique offering for girls

Tips to keep kids safe

PAGE 16

Doc’s take on PND and anxiety PAGE 4 Top calisthenics competitors PAGE 5 Running for Premature Babies

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.

Screens harming young brains SPRING 2022

PAGE 21

KIDS CALENDAR What’s on this spring PAGE 22

PAGE 8

Mount Evelyn

Belgrave Lake Park’s revival

mum’s births poles apart

PAGES 10-11

Sophie Cachia

Culture Tracks school holiday program

talks relationships and family

In the market for value

Little people, big emotions with

Mental health support in schools

STEVE BIDDULPH

PAGE 17 www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

SPRING 2022 1

COVER: Lila, 12, is all smiles for spring.

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instagram.com/yarraranges_kids

It’s Your Life

Ash’s polar opposite births

By Casey Neill SOME women always dream of being a mum.

Mount Evelyn mum of two Ashleigh Le Rossignol never saw herself with kids.

“I thought I was too selfish to be a mum,” she said.

“I thought I had no patience.

“It was only when I met (my partner) Gaz that I changed.

“I thought ‘I’m going to marry this guy and have a family with him’.”

That was in 2016.

“Gaz and I fell pregnant five months after meeting,” she said.

“Then I had a miscarriage at nine weeks.

“Then I fell pregnant again six months later and had another miscarriage.

“I don’t know how many weeks I was with the second.

“The third was only very short - I think I was four or five weeks.

“The first one I felt really guilty.

“I remember being in the hospital and saying to Gaz ‘I’m sorry’.”

Luna.

“Once I started really getting pregnant I started feeling really comfortable, and all the scans were great.

“I loved being pregnant with her.”

She only experienced morning sickness until about week six, and from there “it was a pretty cruisy one”...until week 40.

“I got a rash all over my body,” she said.

“I was hot, I was swollen.

“They didn’t know what it was. It was like 10 million mozzie bites all over my body.”

Macey was fine, but doctors offered Ash an induction.

“They put the balloon in,” she said.

“They started the induction hormones about 9am the next morning.

“She was out at 11.46pm that night (via emergency caesarean), right on 40 weeks.”

Doctors told Ash there was no reason Macey shouldn’t have come out naturally, but after hours of pushing, forceps and suction, she wouldn’t budge.

Ash then fell pregnant with daughter Macey, now aged 2.

“I think it really took four days to get my head around what happened,” Ash said.

“My biggest fear was getting to the 12 weeks,” she said.

“I was completely drugged up on pain relief.

Luna and Ashleigh.

Pictures: Rob Carew

“The drugs were making me sweat, I felt so spaced out. I couldn’t even get up.

“I think I felt butchered.”

When she fell pregnant with Luna, she knew she wanted her birth to go differently.

A gestational diabetes diagnosis threw her at first, but she was able to manage the condition with diet and exercise.

“My headspace was still really good,” she said.

She was determined to try a VBAC (vaginal birth after caesarean).

“But as it got closer, I didn’t want to go through what I went through with Mace,” she said.

“Before we knew it, Luna was out.

“She was crying. She came out with her eyes open.

“The anaesthetist said it’s so rare to see babies with their eyes open.

“I bawled my eyes out. I didn’t with Mace.

“They stitched me up and off I went, and she was there within four or five hours.

“The next day I was up and moving.

The recovery - it was polar opposites.”

“I didn’t want to be induced again. I made that very clear.”

With the birth out of the way, adjusting to life as a family of four became her focus.

At 40 weeks on the dot, she started getting cramps about 6pm.

Luna was 2 months old when we spoke.

She monitored her contractions and called the hospital, and was advised to take Panadol and try to sleep.

“I was more scared about how I would go about my day-to-day stuff going to the shops, going to the park,” Ash said.

But only 15 minutes later she felt the urge to push. Her contractions started to ramp up as she and Garry packed to leave for the hospital.

“They were so close together and the pain was really starting to kick in,” she said.

“I was trying to get my breath, holding onto the wall.

“Garry’s mum came over and I waddled out to the car. I had two contractions between the door and the car.

“I got to the hospital about 10pm. I was squatting the whole way into emergency.

“Macey is still at an age when she’s learning not to run away, stop when you cross the road, plus trying to make sure the baby’s safe if I have to run off after Mace.

“I was scared at the start, but now that she’s here and I’ve got into some kind of routine, it’s not that bad.

“Macey was all over me, she’d wake Luna up, Macey always needed me.

“It’s still the same but I’m setting boundaries.”

“But the natural labour for me was really good. It was so bearable (compared to the induction).”

Ash is trying not to focus on the big picture and not sweat the small stuff, and take help when it’s available.

Ash was 6cm dilated and still wanted a VBAC, but felt nervous.

“Take the pressure off yourself. Tell yourself it’s OK,” she said.

“I just wanted it to be positive,” she said.

“You’re a mum who has to keep two kids alive.

“I was really worried it would end in an emergency caesarean again.”

So she opted for an elective caesarean.

“I wasn’t as exhausted, and I wasn’t numb to it. I wasn’t drugged up,” she said.

www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

“I was conscious to make my own decisions.

“If you don’t have that external support then you’ve just got to learn to take a breath.

“The washing will get done eventually. The cleaning will get done eventually.”

SPRING 2022 3

It’s Your Life

Dr Elizabeth Maher.

It’s OK to not be OK

By Melissa Meehan HAVING a baby is a huge life change – and it’s often underestimated.

Many mums and dads suffer from postnatal depression and anxiety.

Dr Elizabeth Maher says not only is there suddenly an enormous amount of relentless responsibility, but there are dramatic hormonal shifts, constant and often unwanted parenting advice from you know and sleep deprivation.

Dr Maher says many mums and dads who need support, and have noticed that more and more patients with perinatal (during pregnancy or in

the first 12 months after birth) depression and anxiety over the past two years.

“The pandemic has definitely had an impact, beaseline levels of anxiety have been higher for most people due to the constant feeling of uncertainty, rapid change and worry about their own health and the health of their loved ones,” Dr Maher told Kids Today.

“Social isolation has added another level of stress to new parents, who have suffered from a lack of support when they needed it most.”

Current statistics show that one in five mums and one in 10 dads in Australia suffer from perinatal

depression and/or anxiety.

“These numbers are far too high,” Dr Maher said.

“There are so many pressures on new parents, from keeping up with social commitments, pressure from others to return to work or stay at home, keeping the house perfectly clean… all while posting photos of a perfect life on social media? It’s not possible.”

August 16, 6:30 - 8:00PM

Dealing with Children's Aggression September 13, 6:30 - 8:00PM

Teaching Children to Emotionally Regulate October 11, 6:30 - 8:00PM

Playful Parenting November 15, 6:30 - 8:00PM

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“But no matter how bad it is, there are effective treatments out there,” she said.

Dr Maher said for many, by the time they seek help, they are no longer able to function.

She said some feel like it’s a sign of failure, but she assures them it’s not.

Some people are more at risk of PND than others. These risk factors include:

Asking for help is a sign of strength, she says.

■ Being isolated from family and friends

“That feeling of helplessness can be a symptom of depression.”

Screentime Reduction - how to do it

The longer you wait, the harder it can be to engage with therapies that can help, according to Dr Maher.

“If you are suffereing from perinatal depression or anxiety, you are definitely not alone – the more you reach out and talk to people about it, the more you will hear similar stories.”

“It takes courage to acknowledge something isn’t right and to do something about it,” she said.

FREE Community Webinars for Parents, Carers & Volunteers

The important thing for new mums to remember is to see out help earlier than later.

The good news is that there is help out there.

The first step is to see your GP for advice, they can offer a mental health care – which means you can access Medicare rebates for consultations with a psychologist.

And some psychologists are still offering telehealth appointments – so you won’t even need to pack up the baby and head out to your session.

“PANDA is another fantastic resource we have here in Australia, for both mums and dads,” Dr Maher says.

“They have a website packed with information, they offer free telephonebased counselling and have a national helpline open every week day.”

■ Suffering from mental illness in the past ■ A family history of mental health issues ■ A perfectionist personality ■ A traumatic birth or complications during pregnancy ■ Relationship difficulties including family violence ■ Financial difficulties Here are some other great resources: ■ PANDA National helpline (Mon-Fri 9am – 7.30pm) – 1300 726 306 ■ PANDA website: www.panda.org.au ■ MumSpace website: www. mumspace.com.au ■ Center of Perinatal Excellence website: www.cope.org.au ■ Beyond Blue website: www. beyondblue.org.au Dr is a GP and founder of The Happy Baby Sleep and Settling Clinic in Moorabbin.

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4 SPRING 2022

www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

It’s Your Life

Joulle flies high at Cali Unite Tiesha Moonen, 21, flying high, with Hannah Bevan, 21.

WHAT started out as a hobby at age five, turned into a lifelong love of calisthenics for duo Hannah and Tiesha.

The pair, from Wonga Park and Croydon North respectively, represented Kilsyth based Joulle Calisthenics Academy at the Cali Unite competition in Queensland in July.

Held in Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast, the national competition was open to all ages and gradings across the country.

Training for their routines for the competition began in January, they’d

mostly train twice a week.

For those who don’t know, calisthenics is a sport that combines dancing, singing, gymnastics and technical skills for children to adults.

“Calisthenics isn’t a globally recognised sport, and even within Australia and Victoria it can sometimes feel a bit like a sport that not many people know about,” Hannah told Kids Today.

“Going interstate gave us an opportunity to share calisthenics in a way that we haven’t been able to

before, both within the calisthenics community and outside.”

Happy with their performance, the pair are now focusing on their team competition season and the upcoming state titles.

Local mums Melissa Campbell and Kelly Egginton coached the duo.

“Being a part Cali Unite was up there with my coaching career highlights,” Kelly said.

“I was so proud of the girls, of the dedication, commitment and determination they had to be their best.

They did our choreography proud “And it was so special to represent Joulle as coaches and competitors in a nationwide calisthenics event.”

An extra special touch for the duo was that the competition was livestreamed, meaning friends and family across the country could view from home.

“Their team mates even paused class on the Wednesday night to watch their performance on the big screen projector. So nice to have their support all the way down in Victoria,” she said.

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SPRING 2022 5

It’s Your Life

Toby honoured through run for prems

By Renee Wood HEALESVILLE florist Rebecca Noble ran a half marathon for Running for Premature Babies to honour Toby Phillips, a baby boy who died last year.

Ms Noble met Toby’s mother Jade Bastin at LLB florist shop while she was pregnant and later created the flower arrangements for Toby’s funeral.

“His story has really touched me, so I just knew that I wanted to run in honour of him,” she said.

At 23 weeks, Toby had preterm premature rupture of membranes and he was born at 28 weeks.

Ms Bastin said due to PROM, his lungs didn’t grow properly and couldn’t support his growing body.

“We are so grateful to Bec for

supporting such an important cause and keeping our precious baby’s memory alive,” Ms Bastin said.

Toby never left hospital and visitation was limited during his treatment due to the Covid-19 lockdown health restrictions.

“Sometimes it feels like nobody knew him and we are the only ones who remember him, but he touched so many people in his short life, even if only through social media,” Ms Bastin said.

“He left a huge mark on this world and we are so proud of him. Having other people remember him is one of the most important things to a grieving parent.”

Ms Noble shared that she’d be competing in July’s Run Melbourne on her business social media account and was blown away by other women

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Rebecca Noble and her daughter Evie at a previous charity run.

reaching out to share their birth experiences.

“I think it’s something that’s not talked about… lots and lots of women have contacted me and said that they’ve had miscarriages or premature births,” she said.

“Some of their babies are still living and it was really, really tough on their families while they were going through that…there’s also some children who have long term effects.

“To give me motivation, I’m going to

write all of these babies names on my hands...so they’re going to be my motivation to keep going even if it hurts a little bit at the end.”

Sophie Smith set up Running for Premature Babies in 2007 after she and her late husband Ash lost their triplet sons following an extremely premature birth at 24 weeks.

Funds raised go to neonatal research and provide lifesaving neonatal equipment to hospitals, which has directly benefited more than 6000 babies.

Weight of concern over blankets PARENTS are being warned to steer clear of weighted baby sleeping bags.

Red Nose Australia said online retailers were selling the weighted sleeping sacks, which were like weighted blankets.

They are incredibly unsafe for babies - they can compress a baby’s chest, leading to a lack of oxygen.

Weighted sleeping sacks can also cause overheating - a well-known risk factor for SIDS. “It is incredibly alarming to see weighted sleeping bags and weighted blankets being marketed directly to parents of infants, who are told these products may help their baby sleep better,” Red Nose Australia research officer Charis Brown said.

“There is no research to support these claims.

“The reality is that these products can actually be unsafe for babies and Red Nose is urging every parent to please never use a weighted sleeping product on their baby.

”We also want to ensure families with children, who have weighted blankets for adult use, are mindful of where they are kept and ensure they cannot inadvertently fall on a child or infant leading to catastrophic results.”

Red Nose Australia CEO Keren Ludski said Australian parents needed to know that babies overseas had died from the use of weighted blankets.

The Red Nose Safe Sleep Advice Line recently received a number of calls from parents of newborns asking for safety advice about weighted baby blankets and weighted baby sleeping bags.

In response, Red Nose released specific online advice for parents about weighted blankets, at rednose. org.au/article/weighted-blankets.

Parents can also call the Red Nose Safe Sleep Line with any questions on 1300 998 698.

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6 SPRING 2022

www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

It’s Your Life

Crunchy Chocolate Granola Ingredients ■ 2 cups rolled oats

Picture: Studio 74 Photography

■ 1 cup chopped almonds ■ ½ cup flaked coconut ■ ¼ cup sunflower seeds ■ ¼ cup pumpkin seeds ■ 2 Tbsp cacao powder

in the kitchen

■ 2 Tbsp pure maple syrup ■ 2 Tbsp olive oil ■ 1 Tbsp carob powder ■ 1 tsp vanilla extract

with Lucy Stewart

■ ½ tsp cinnamon

Instructions CHOCOLATE for breakfast? Why not!

This delicious crunchy chocolate granola is super easy and fun to make with the kids, and it’s a more nutritious way to start the day than anything you’ll find in a box at the supermarket.

1. Preheat oven to 100°C and line a baking sheet with baking paper.

2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, flaked coconut and cinnamon.

When it comes to kids, it’s true what they say, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Breakfast has the opportunity to provide kids with the fuel they need to be active and play, to be motivated, to concentrate and learn, as well as remember and harness new skills – how our kids start their day can greatly influence their success at school.

nutrients, causing blood sugar spikes and leaving kids feeling hungry and irritable, not long after. But a breakfast cereal that includes protein, fibre and fats will not only satisfy their hunger, it will keep kids tummies feeling fuller for longer, fuel their brains and sustain their energy throughout the morning.

Whilst cereal is the breakfast of choice for many kids, most commercial breakfast cereals are made with refined grains and high amounts of sugar delivering very little in the way of

This crunchy chocolate granola is made with a mix of rolled oats, nuts, seeds, coconut and cacao to nourish growing bodies and brains. Raw cacao - commonly referred to as the ‘food of

the Gods’ - is not only the highest food source of antioxidants, it also contains tryptophan (a precursor to moodboosting serotonin), a huge amount of phenylethylamine (aka the ‘love chemical’ that increases motivatingdopamine & serotonin) and is one of the most potent food sources of magnesium, a mineral that’s important for kids growth, development and energy production.

But the best part, is drinking the chocolate milk that’s left at the end.

3. In a small bowl whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cacao and carob powder. Pour mixture over dry ingredients and mix together until everything is well combined.

4. Spread the mixture evenly over prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-minutes, turning halfway to ensure it cooks evenly.

5. Allow to cool then store in an airtight container.

Well Fed Kitchen is a range of healthy snacks for kids that you can make at home.

Created by Nutritionist and mum, Lucy Stewart, they’re made with only real wholefood and plant-based ingredients – no additives, nothing artificial, and without nuts, dairy, soy and wheat.

Well Fed Kitchen provides an easy snack alternative to the sugar-laden, healthy processed options, guaranteed to fill kids tummies, satisfy their hunger, provide a steady release of energy and some essential growing nutrients too.

www.wellfedkitchen.com.au @wellfedkitchen_snacks 12562712-LB34-22

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SPRING 2022 7

It’s Your Life

Little Kids, Big Feelings Little Kids, Big Feelings, writes STEVE BIDDULPH How to turn meltdowns to moments of closeness THE hardest thing with small children, and sometimes big ones, is that they just dpn’t always do what we ask! Our lives have become busy, and so we want our kids to move quickly and smoothly through the day, eating, dressing, getting in and out of cars, going to and from school or kindy. We want them to co-operate in our busyness, and often the little blighters don’t. Or sometimes, can’t.

Our worst moments of the day are often when our kids suddenly have “big feelings” and go into meltdowns of tears, or rage or anxiety, and make a train wreck of our plans, let alone our image of a well run family! What a nuisance!

Of course, these worst times might be good times to remember something important. To take a deep breath or two, get our own feet steady on the ground, and remind ourselves that the aim of parenthood isn’t to get it over with. Our goal in life is not, however nice it sounds, to rest at the end of a day when nothing went wrong.

Because there is no such day. The aim of parenthood, and of family life, is to nurture a small person into a big one who other people will find trustworthy, loyal, loving, and empathic enough to love, and value as a friend, team member, spouse, or mum or dad

themselves. Someone, in short who will have a good life, and be good for other lives. So, dear reader, check before you read on - is that your goal? Am I making this up? If your aim in parenthood is to take good photos for Insta, from their birth to their glamourous wedding, then this is where we part ways. Be off with you.

But if you are still reading, then here is the thing. Kids have meltdowns and big emotions and make our plans fall in a heap, not because they are defective, or want to make our lives hard. They do it because they are busy growing their brains. And they need our help with that. Karen Young, an excellent psychologist who writes about kids emotions, points out that just as you won’t let a five year old cross a busy street, because their brain just isn’t ready, you can’t expect small children to be able to self regulate emotions either. The busy streeet of their own brain is sometimes way too much, and their own emotions come at them like a semi-trailer.

They need you to hold their hand.

something, or going somewhere, and needing (you think) to get a bit of a wriggle on. And suddenly your small person is in tears, or digging their heels in, or has gone all wobbly. You run a quick check. Are we being chased by a bear? Fleeing a volcano or a terrorist attack? If the answer is no, then perhaps you can spare five minutes.

This chance might not come again.

Breathe a big slow breath, if it comes out sounding like a sigh that’s still alright. Soften your heart, and remember that we are all soft and fragile beings who get out of our depth.

And then crouch down or sit down or bend down nearer to your child, and ask them “are you feeling a bit rough right now?” “where in your body are you feeling it?” and perhaps “sounds like something in you is a bit angry now (or scared, or sad)”. Find the words that are most natural to you, as long as they are reaching out to their inner storms with a compassionate energy that

says “I understand”. Ask them to telll you about what is going on for them.

Perhaps they will need to sob, or shudder, or rant a bit about something that was unfair or mean or unjust when seen through their eyes, and you should make room for that. Don’t try and talk them out of it. Perhaps what they tell you might bring a change of plan.

Perhaps you might have to strike a compromise. Perhaps nothing changes except they are calmer and are okay to move on. You will know you got it right when you feel closer to them now, and they to you.

Learning to “regulate” your emotions - to give them space, and make them welcome, and take them on board, even in a harsh and often uncaring world, depends on having a few people around us who can cope with our messy side. Who don’t put us down or go all cold or hard when we aren’t coping.

Gradually your child will become better able to ride life’s bumps, and use words to join their heart to yours, or other people’s.

How long does this process take? My guess is about 90 years! But you can get much better at it, and having a parent’s help is what makes the difference.

Long after you are gone, they will have you inside them saying “its okay, you’ve got this”. They will carry your love in their bones.

What does that mean in practice.

Well, it looks like this.

You are on the way to doing

Steve Biddulph is the author of Fully Human, Raising Boys, and The Raising Girls Workbook. He lives in the Tamar Valley in Tasmania, and is very very old.

Springtime safety from Kidsafe Victoria FINALLY, the weather is starting to warm up and we are looking forward to enjoying more outdoor time with the family.

As we move towards the brighter colours and sounds of spring, Kidsafe Victoria has provided its top four tips to help you keep your family safe this season.

1. Sign up to Kidsafe Victoria’s Free Baby Safety Guide If you are expecting your first baby, then this one is for you!

Kidsafe Victoria has launched its new Baby Safety Guide to reduce the overwhelm you might experience as a first time parent.

The Baby Safety Guide takes the guesswork out of your parenting journey by providing information and advice on products such as cots, prams and high chairs, including what to look for when purchasing these products and how to use them safely.

The second module covers other important information on home, road, water and play safety to help keep your baby safe as they grow.

To access the free Baby Safety 8 SPRING 2022

Guide, visit Kidsafe Victoria’s website.

2. Check pool barriers for wear and tear When was the last time that you checked your pool barrier and the surrounding area?

Pool barriers are exposed to the extremes of weather all year round this can lead to rust, damage, missing parts and wear and tear over time.

There are four main safety issues which are important to regularly check and maintain: ■ Is the gate or door still self-closing and self-latching?

■ Is the gate propped open?

■ Are there any gaps, holes or spaces in and under the barrier which a child can get through?

■ Are there any climbable objects near the pool barrier eg barbecues, outdoor furniture, trees etc?

Pools are not the only bodies of water that you need to be mindful of.

Toddlers can drown in just a few centimetres of water, which means that fishponds, eskies, buckets, laundry tubs and even pet water bowls all pose a drowning hazard.

It’s important to empty any objects that can hold water straight after use, and to restrict access when an adult isn’t able to actively supervise children.

3. Store poisons out of reach, inside and outside As part of any spring cleaning, take the time to go through your cupboards and ensure that any potentially poisonous products are stored up high in a locked cupboard, out of the sight and reach of children.

Common poisonous items include medicines (ie prescription medicines and paracetamol), cleaning products, dishwasher powder/liquid, bleaches, fertilisers and pesticides, swimming pool and spa chemicals and cosmetics.

You might have a shed or garage which has tins of paint, petrol, weed killer, rat bait, power tools and other gardening supplies lying around.

Again, make sure any outdoor poisons or tools are locked up well out of reach of the hands of our little helpers, including unplugging any power tools and/or removing batteries.

4. Secure curtain and blind cords Loose curtain and blind cords, particularly those with loops, pose a significant strangulation hazard for children as they can place the loop over their head and/or become tangled in the loose cords.

Whether you live with children, or might have an unexpected little one visiting one day, here are some steps you can take to help ensure that your curtain and blind cords are safe: ■ Check each room of your home for any loose or looped curtain and blind cords and secure them out of reach of children - at least 1.6m above floor level - with cleats or cord tensioning devices.

Depending on the type of cords, these can be ordered free through Consumer Affairs Victoria or purchased from your local hardware store or curtain and blind cord retailer.

■ Check that items of furniture such as cots, beds and high chairs are kept away from windows where children can reach the curtain or blind cords.

For more Kidsafe tips and advice, visit kidsafevic.com.au. www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

Father’s Day

Rob’s a dad to millions

By Casey Neill

some of the struggles that I went through”.

“YOU got this. I love you. I’m proud of you.”

From jump-starting a car to tying a tie, he’s helping people of all ages and walks of life to learn new skills.

It’s easy to see why Rob Kenney has become a father figure to millions of people through his YouTube channel ‘Dad, how do I?’.

The 50-something father of two, based near Seattle in the US, shares how-to videos for many basic tasks, with plenty of dad jokes thrown in with his earnest fatherly advice.

When he was a kid, Father’s Day was “a pretty normal celebration” of his own dad.

“By the time that I became a dad, my relationship with my dad was pretty distant, because he left the family when I was 14, so it was more my special day,” he said.

He said the response was completely unexpected.

“I didn’t start my channel to switch careers, so I had to grapple with what my new life looked like,” he said.

“Now that we’re two years into it, I finally feel like I am in a good place with it.

“I honestly thought that I would have 30 or 40 subscribers.

“It’s a time that I get together with my wife’s family, and we celebrate all of the dads.

“Had I known that my videos would have so many views, I would have paid closer attention while I was filming.

“I think it’s cool to be a dad, and I hope to encourage other dads to see what a great privilege they have (if they don’t already know).”

“I have no prior experience, I was just trying to talk to the camera like I was talking to my own kids.

One reason Rob started the channel was to pass along things he “had to learn the hard way, to save others

Rob Kenney is a dad to millions.

“I have several years’ worth of content that I would like to share on my channel, but I also am keeping track of the many suggestions that I receive,” he said.

“Anything I can do to help the next generation to be encouraged, empowered, and to be good humans, I am all for it!”

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$19 95

$19 Toys and costumes - New arrivals www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

SPRING 2022 9

It’s Your Life

New playground enhances natural beauty

By Casey Neill

water play zone, and slides would suit toddlers through to tweens.

well-visited by community members and those travelling to the region.

THE stunning bushland surrounding the new Belgrave Lake Park playground is what hits you the moment you step into the revitalised play space.

Yarra Ranges Councillor and Deputy Mayor Johanna Skelton officially unveiled the $1.2 million project in December last year.

“But the playspace at the park needed a bit of an update.”

It’s testament to how seamlessly the diverse equipment blends with the green, leafy reserve.

Timber and rope feature prominently, and the swings, climbing structures,

10 SPRING 2022

“We know that Belgrave Lake Park is a beloved spot for our community,” she said.

“It maybe hasn’t been as prominent as other spots in the Yarra Ranges, as far as tourist hype, but it’s always been

As well as the play equipment, the upgrade added a drinking fountain, picnic shelters and furniture, including a barbecue for parties, events and picnics.

A new path, with wayfinding signage, makes the park more accessible and easier to navigate, along with new disabled parking bays.

A new basketball half-court and new fitness stations cater to older age groups, as well as kids.

“If you’re planning a day out at a park, you’ll always choose the one that is easy to get around, fun to play at and nice to look at – and people will travel to go to a park they love,” Cr Skelton said.

“Having a park that you love close to home helps people to feel better connected to their community.”

www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

SPRING 2022 11

Education

Guiding flexible, creative thinkers The school’s aim is far broader than equipping students with a solid VCE result.

WALKING into Little Yarra Steiner School, you are immediately immersed in a creative, peaceful, and nurturing learning environment, enhanced by the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains.

This approach requires students to develop confidence in themselves as learners in a lifelong context.

The educational model, based on the teachings of Rudolf Steiner, wholistically meets the developmental stages of the growing child and young person from kindergarten to Year 12.

Inherent within the upper school program is the opportunity for students to develop an understanding of the world around them through cross curricular main lesson work that spans architecture, music, geometry, literature, philosophy, mathematics, current affairs, modern scientific concepts in physics, chemistry and biology, history, astronomy and many other topics.

Students develop their analytical

The rich camps program, international exchange program, independent VCE project and Little Yarra Music Ensemble, embed an understanding of the importance of living within, and participating in one’s local, national and international community, and through this an understanding that each individual brings gifts to be valued and respected.

Drama, music and movement bring a greater awareness of oneself and others and strengthen these skills, both

for future learning and to cultivate a sense of responsibility for each other and for our world.

Graduates from last year all successfully completed and received a Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE).

Every student who elected to go on to tertiary education was successful in gaining offers of direct entry to courses commencing this year.

Little Yarra Steiner School can be tremendously proud of the young people who progress through the school and graduate to go on to greater things, secure in the knowledge that the education they received will equip them well for whatever life adventures they might choose to embark upon.

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The school’s aim is far broader than to just equip students with a solid VCE result. The ethos behind the teaching is to guide students to become flexible and creative thinkers who can work independently with initiative and imagination.

The wide, rich and varied Steiner curriculum supports this learning profile in every respect.

thinking, reflection, listening skills and confidence in their academic and creative work through the considered and thoughtful way the teachers deliver both the VCE and Steiner curriculum programs.

12 SPRING 2022

www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

Education

Free parenting webinars Join webinars to learn parenting strategies.

It can be overwhelming for children and parents!

ANGLICARE Victoria’s Communities for Children and Parentzone programs are offering webinars requested by parents, carers and volunteers.

Connect with other caregivers, feel supported and develop strategies to cope.

■ Date: Tuesday 13 September.

Dealing with Children’s Aggression

■ Time: 6.30pm to 8pm.

As children grow and experience big feelings that they may not have the skills to manage.

Teaching Children to Emotionally Regulate

■ Date: Tuesday 11 October.

Through all ages and stages of child development, we deal with complex emotions.

Playful Parenting

If your child is struggling with this and seeming aggressive, join this webinar.

Bookings now open for TERM 4.

2022

?

WHY

It’s FUN & LEARNING TOO! MOVEMENT is the KEY to LEARNING Australian researched and designed essential skills Program Nurturing each natural stage of neurological development Explorative challenges on the specially designed equipment Structured sensory activities with music, exercise and dance Professionally qualified instructors extend the experience Parent information plus home activities to practice

Celebrating our 38th year in the Yarra Ranges SESSIONS

CONTACT US

Babies: 6 weeks - 12 months

MOOROOLBARK GYMBAROO

Toddlers: 1 - 2 & 2 - 3 years

Mooroolbark Community Centre

Pre School: 3 - 4 years

125 Brice Ave, Mooroolbark VIC 3138

School readiness: 4 - 5 years

mooroolbark@gymbaroo.com.au 0455 506 614 www.gymbaroo.com.au

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www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

DISCOUNT on PRESENTATION of this COUPON

This webinar offers strategies to support your child when they are feeling out of sorts.

■ Time: 6.30pm to 8pm.

Explore a fun approach to parenting

and strengthen your relationship with your child. Connect with other caregivers and explore ways in which you can include playfulness in your parenting so that you and your child can thrive.

■ Date: Tuesday 15 November.

■ Time: 6.30pm to 8pm.

For registration and enquiries, contact CFCCardinia@anglicarevic.org.au or call 0457 825 076.

Your Kinder of Choice Belgrave - Chirnside Park Colchester Park - Coldstream - Fernhill Hansen Park - Joy Ave - Lancaster Launching Place - Millgrove - Montrose MECEC - Mt Dandenong Mt Evelyn Memorial - Sarah Court Sassafras - Upwey - Upwey Sth - Wandin Warburton - Woori Yallock

Enrolments for 2023 now open!

YRKI

Yarra Ranges Kindergartens Inc. 9726 0439 www.yrkinders.com 12547320-SG25-22

SPRING 2022 13

Education

General eating habits and patterns are formed in the first few years of life.

Every child needs opportunities every day to be physically active.

Good nutrition is the key to a healthy life GOOD nutrition is essential during childhood. It is a time of rapid growth, development and activity.

General eating habits and patterns are formed in the first few years of life.

As children become more independent, they can take greater responsibility for their own health, safety and wellbeing.

There are some simple steps that parents can take to ensure their children have a healthy diet, including providing plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, limiting sugary drinks and snacks, and teaching children about the importance of good nutrition.

By taking these steps at an early age, parents can help their children develop lifelong healthy eating habits.

A nutritious diet helps children maintain a healthy weight, avoid chronic diseases in later life such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes, and promotes optimal brain development. When children eat nutritious foods, they tend to do better

14 SPRING 2022

in school, have more energy to engage in physical activity, are less likely to get sick, and are more likely to reach their full potential as adults.

A healthy diet should include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, lean protein sources, and healthy fats.

We should also limit sugary drinks, snacks and processed foods.

It is also important to ensure that children are getting enough of the key nutrients they need for proper growth and development, such as iron, calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C. This is also a vital time for healthy tooth development and the prevention of decay.

Improving nutrition for children will require a concerted effort by parents, caregivers, teachers, policymakers, and the food industry.

But it is an investment that will pay off in healthier generations to come.

New research is showing just how

closely nutrition is linked to our emotions.

A recent study looked at the brain networks associated with controlling feeding and found that they are closely linked to emotion.

This makes sense when you consider that serotonin, a chemical that helps regulate sleep, appetite and moods, is mostly produced in the gut.

In other words, our digestive system plays a big role in guiding our emotions.

The findings suggest that children who are well-nourished are more likely to have positive emotional experiences, while those who are malnourished are more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression.

Providing children with nutritious meals, then, is an important part of ensuring their emotional wellbeing.

Without adequate amounts of the right nutrients, it has been proven that children can suffer from a range of

problems that can adversely affect their health and development.

For example, undernutrition can cause children to have less energy and trouble concentrating in class, which negatively affects their cognitive development and academic performance.

It also affects physical growth and maturation and body height and weight.

It’s no secret that childhood obesity is a growing problem in developed countries around the World.

While there are many contributing factors, one of the most important is lack of physical activity.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, “in 2014-15, one in four children aged 2-17 years were overweight or obese”.

Not only does this have major implications for their health and wellbeing now, but it also puts them at risk for a lifetime of chronic diseases.

The good news is that physical activity can help prevent obesity, and every child needs opportunities every day to be physically active.

Whether it’s running around at the park or playing tag with friends, children need time to burn off energy and practice new physical skills.

Getting young kids to adopt healthy habits can be a challenge.

That’s why it’s so important for parents and other caregivers, such as educators, to model positive behaviour.

Children learn by example, so if they see the people around them living active, healthy lives, they’re more likely to do the same. Providing children with the right information is vital.

There are guidelines provided by the government and other organisations to make informed choices about what to feed their children and how much activity they should be getting.

By working together, we can give all children the foundation they need to lead happy, healthy lives.

Thankfully, proper nutrition with active play can help prevent these problems.

By ensuring that your child is getting the right nutrients and exercise, you can help them build a foundation for a lifetime of good health.

- Cire Early Learning www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

Cire Early Learning At Cire, we provide a welcoming and nurturing environment where children are valued and respected for their uniqueness. We celebrate and support inclusion and diversity.

Informed by the Reggio Emilia approach, our passionate educators scaffold children’s learning to ensure they can confidently reach their fullest potential, from infancy through to school readiness. We believe that children should have a voice in their learning and acknowledge that they are capable, competent, co-contributors and active participants in the journey

“You all do such amazing work with the children and make everyone feel we lcome and accepted. Cire is amazing!”

- Cire Early Learn

ing Parent, 2021

Why choose Cire?

Qualified educators Purpose-built facilities Infant care to 4-year old kindergarten Large outdoor playspaces

S

pring

Vacation Care Hoilday Program

Monday 19th to Friday 30th September

Make friends, learn news skills and have fun during the Winter school holidays! A huge range of exciting activities suitable for primary school aged children.

Our vacation care runs at Badger Creek across two weeks with full day care options available. For full details including dates, activties and fees please scan the QR to visit our website.

12564074-SN37-22

Interest led learning

Chirnside Park | Mount Evelyn | Yarra Junction Badger Creek - Outside School Hours Care and Vacation Care only www.cire.org.au | 1300 835 235 | earlylearning@cire.org.au

www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

SPRING 2022 15

Education

A 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.

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 and 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 the International Baccalaureate, an internationally recognised framework which caters for a range of learning needs, offering support and challenge where required.

To register for a college tour, please visit www.materchristi.edu.au.

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

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, serviceoriented community.

RANKED

Top 10 Catholic Schools for

VCE 2021

Apply Now 2024 & 2025 Limited availability

Excellence in all-girls education 28 Bayview Road Belgrave Victoria Australia 3160 mcc@materchristi.edu.au | materchristi.edu.au | +61 3 9754 6611

Mater Christi College is a vibrant, inclusive and warm community where girls feel safe and build supportive lifelong friendships.

Enquire about our charter bus services 12563765-HC37-22

16 SPRING 2022

www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

It’s Your Life

Spring school holidays

Super family movie DC League of Super-Pets is coming to the Yarra Ranges this school holidays.

CULTURE Tracks has some fun and engaging activities to keep your family entertained this spring school holidays including workshops, theatre and cinema.

The Cyanotype sun printing workshop teaches kids 8-12 years how to make a blueprint using cyanotype solution, sunlight and water.

The popular Djirri Djirri Dance workshop teaches kids under 13 years traditional Wurunjeri dancing and singing.

The Planets with Laura the Astronaut is an exciting multi-sensory performance with live chamber music and exciting animated projection.

BUNKASAURUS with Bunk Puppets is a fun family show with raucous and eye-popping silliness.

Whole-school mental health THE Mental Health in Primary Schools program is expanding to every government and low-fee nongovernment primary school in Victoria.

By 2026, 1800 school campuses will employ a Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader to implement a whole-school approach to wellbeing.

The $200 million investment will support individual students, help teachers better identify and support at-risk students, and build relationships and referral pathways to local mental health services.

“We’re making sure every Victorian child has access to safe, tailored care through their trusted school environment – giving them the care they need, when they need it, close to home,” then-Mental Health and Education Minister James Merlino said.

The program builds on a successful pilot with 100 schools across Victoria in partnership with the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and the University of Melbourne.

More than 95 per cent of Mental Health and Wellbeing Leaders said

www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

the model improved their school’s capacity to support students’ mental health and wellbeing needs.

The Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System found schools played an important role in identifying children with mental health and wellbeing challenges, who could then be referred to treatment, care and support.

Every government secondary and specialist school already has a mental health worker, but the Royal Commission encouraged the State Government to expand the primary school pilot.

Culture Tracks has the super family movie DC League of Super-Pets programmed during the school holidays, too!

See the full movie program at yarraranges.vic.gov.au/movie-program and turn to the back page of this magazine for details of the spring school holiday program.

WIN cinema tickets!

Yarra Ranges Kids Magazine readers have the chance to win a double movie pass when purchasing tickets to one or more Yarra Ranges school holiday activities.

Simply enter the magazine’s name at checkout.

In the market for value SPRING is here and it’s time to take the whole family to the Yarra Valley for fun-packed days full of adventures and activities!

Yarra Glen is beautiful in spring and the Yarra Glen Racecourse Market is a sight to behold. Held on the first Sunday of the month from 9am to 2pm, you can come and meet the artists, creators, designers and craftspeople behind the selection of premium quality goods on display.

Satisfy the kids’ curiosity with all the creative makers as they will be happy to have a chat about ‘how it’s made’.

With hundreds of stallholders lining the open paths of this market, featuring a selection of unique jewellery, art, clothing, toys, outdoor furniture, gourmet food and much more, you can be sure there’s something for everyone.

There is also live music to keep you entertained as you browse, and street food sellers will make sure the whole family is well fed.

The market is held on the first Sunday of the month, 9am to 2pm.

Parking is $5. A small surcharge applies when paying for parking electronically. Dogs are not permitted.

Mr Merlino said half of all cases of anxiety, mood, impulse control and substance use disorders manifested by age 14.

Research suggests students with mental health concerns are behind their peers in Grade 3, falling further behind throughout school.

“We know the earlier in life young Victorians get mental health support, the better their chances of staying happy and healthy throughout adulthood,” he said.

There’s something for everyone at Yarra Glen Racecourse Market.

SPRING 2022 17

It’s Your Life

Finding new family SOPHIE CACHIA is a Melbourne mum, entrepreneur and author with a huge social media following.

How and what did you tell Bobby and Floss about the end of your marriage to Jaryd?

Meeting basketballer Maddie Garrick while happily married to former AFL player Jaryd Cachia turned her life upside down, as detailed in her new memoir Then There Was Her.

It was a gentle and slow approach not only for them, but because the reality was it was also something we needed to do softly to ourselves too.

Soph spoke to Casey Neill about navigating her new-look family life with son Bobby, daughter Florence, fiance Maddie, and Jaryd and his partner Jacinta.

I recall having a discussion with Bobby about Daddy possibly having his own house one time, and that Bobby would have not one but TWO bedrooms which he was excited about.

We’ve always been very upfront and honest that just because we wouldn’t be ‘married’ anymore, that we are always family and highlighted the different types of ‘families’ that exist.

Florence was too young to comprehend, so it was Bobby that I had to focus those gentle conversations with more and his emotional maturity is so advanced, he took it on board so well.

What did you learn from the experience that other parents might find valuable?

That kids certainly notice more than what you give them credit for.

Bobby often knew things already before we told him and he would pick up a lot of our conversations in moments where we thought we were talking quietly or out of reach of their ears. Don’t treat them as naive. Be open and transparent with them but always speak about the other person with respect.

In any moments Jaryd and I even became heated, we were always able to put our egos aside and say ‘can we step outside for this conversation?’ or continue it later in order to save the kids from any distress through difficult moments.

How did you introduce them to Maddie, and how did they react to seeing you with someone new?

Very easily. When she first started coming around, I assume they thought she was just another of Mummy’s friends.

They took to her SO well (and even at times when we had broken up and were apart, they continually asked about her and when they could see her again).

As our relationship developed, I asked them how they felt about her living with us and they were so excited.

Bobby asked ‘is Maddie now my step-mum?’ and I said ‘Maddie can be whatever you want her to be, darling’.

I imagine your kids were less fussed about you having a female partner than many fans and followers were was that the case?

Absolutely! My kids didn’t even bat an eyelid, and that’s simply down to the parenting Jaryd and I provided them with from such a young age.

Even as a happily married couple and before I discovered my sexuality, we openly spoke about all types of humans in our home - whether that be gender-based, cultural, identity or sexuality - and the need to accept humans as they are.

My kids have been raised to know and accept humans in all forms, and as we both have quite a lot of friends in the LGBTQIA+ community, there was no shock factor when I said ‘Mummy has a girlfriend’.

Kids only have prejudice and judgment if it’s taught to them, and that didn’t exist within our home.

How have you navigated co-parenting with Jaryd, Maddie and Jacinta, both in logistics and being on the same page with discipline?

Discipline is difficult, but that’s not because we are separated, that’s simply down to being humans and all being wired differently!

Jaryd and I would parent and discipline differently at times even when we were married, so that hasn’t changed now we are apart.

Sophie and Maddie with Bobby and Florence.

Maddie and Sophie with Florence and Bobby.

Sophie Cachia.

Picture: Regina Karon, Karon Photography

18 SPRING 2022

www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

I have a more gentle approach, a more ‘sit down and communicate’ style of discussions, feelings and why someone may have behaved in a way.

Bobby and Floss clearly have a beautiful bond. How do you foster that?

Jaryd is more traditional ‘right from wrong’ and that’s OK - we are allowed to be different.

They are your typical siblings bickering and fighting over who gets the blue cup at dinner and who gets the bloody yellow - but in moments of sadness, the way I see the other look after their sibling shows me that I am doing something right.

But regardless of our styles, we all have the same end goal and it’s to encourage our children to be the best versions of themselves they can be, knowing that as humans we all make mistakes along the way.

The way I love them, I hope, fosters that love amongst each other.

What advice would you give other parents navigating ‘unconventional’ family units?

I teach them to love with respect and boundaries, allowing mistakes to be made and forgiveness to be provided; to respect each other’s things and spaces.

I strongly believe the word conventional family is soon going to be a thing of the past.

Words such as ‘fat’, ‘idiot’, ‘loser’ etc are strictly banned in our home and their vocabulary.

Yes, they will still exist, but all families - no matter how they present - should be accepted. Nothing has changed about the fact I am their mother and Jaryd is their father.

How do you talk to your kids about your fame, and potentially following in your footsteps?

We just live separate lives now but we still love and care for our children.

Kids at school regularly tell Bobby that ‘my mum follows your mum on Instagram’ or ‘we have your mum’s pjs at home’ so he’s used to it.

I don’t really think Florence gets it, but Florence is more often than not in Florence’s world so that doesn’t surprise me haha.

Bobby is a super cool, quirky kid who loves gaming and collectables and tells me he wants his own YouTube channel one day.

Florence will most definitely end up on Broadway!

Was your kids one day reading your book on your mind as you wrote it, and did that make you change anything?

It honestly didn’t cross my mind during the entire process, but if that day comes, it doesn’t bother me.

I wouldn’t put things in a book that I was uncomfortable with anyone

What’s your favourite thing about being a mum?

That no matter how sh***y, stressed or tired I feel, a cuddle at the end of your day from your children can instantly put everything into perspective and make it all go away.

What aspect of motherhood have you found most challenging?

Honestly - right now - it’s keeping up with school commitments, homework, excursions, after school sports etc!

Bobby’s only 8 and Florence is just 5, and I feel like it’s stepped up a notch and I am hopeless at keeping up-to-date with school admin.

I know it’s only going to get busier the older they get, so please send help haha!

I really don’t talk about it, they just pick up on it.

Bobby, Florence and Sophie.

reading, including my children.

I encourage them to own their lives and be proud of who they are regardless, so I act exactly the same and own my story.

What do you hope other parents take away from your book?

That true love is allowing your children to be whoever they want to be. To know that life can change at any point,

even when you didn’t necessarily want it or chose it to.

That you can still love someone so deeply, but not romantically.

That respectful co-parenting situations can exist - you just have to both make that choice.

That there are no rules in life - it is yours to write.

Maddie, Florence, Bobby and Sophie. www.yarrarangeskidstoday.com.au

SPRING 2022 19

Books

A book within a book

By Casey Neill ARABELLA’S Alphabet Adventure features a book taking a daring adventure and learning she’s perfect just the way she is.

“I’m an ABC book and that’s all I’ll ever be,” Arabella complained to her capital C. Hers is the most beautiful and most borrowed book in the library - but only ever by children, often those with sticky fingers.

“We so often forget to be grateful for what we have, especially with the pervasiveness of social media and the constant pull to compare ourselves to people whose lives look shinier.

“Arabella’s Alphabet Adventure is a gentle reminder to love ourselves and those around us; to learn to live in the moment and find happiness in the things we already have, and to recognise that we all have value.”

When she wrote Arabella, Suzy had small children who devoured books.

“Arabella forgets she is special. She longs for words and paragraphs,” Melbourne author Suzy Zail said.

“I’d read them stories and we’d all escape for a while, so the library was our happy place and the perfect setting for my first picture book,” she said.

“She wants to be adored by adults so she travels to Africa as a stowaway in search of a better life, only to learn that she is perfect - and loved - just the way she is.

“Books had always kept me company, even as a small child, so it wasn’t a stretch to make my main character an ABC book who longs for adventure.”

Suzy is quite happy for her book to land on the kids’ shelf, susceptible to sticky fingers.

“I’d only ever written books for adults and teens and was grateful for the opportunity to work with an illustrator (Christopher Nielsen) and engage with young children,” she said.

“I also loved the challenge of whittling my words down to the ones that really counted and conveying big ideas in just a few hundred words.

“It’s harder than it looks because picture books are read over and over and out loud.

“Read anything that often and you’ll see every flaw.”

Author Suzy Zail.

Children’s books...

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

AMAZING ANIMAL JOURNEYS

Chippy Chasers: Chippy Jackpot

The third children’s book by bestselling mindset author and two-time Olympian, Matthew Syed, will help readers to find their voice, flex their social superpowers, and speak up with kindness and confidence.

What if you could disagree with someone without it turning into the argument of the century?

I’m here to tell you that it can be done. What Do YOU Think? will help young readers to discover what is influencing their ideas, from peer pressure to fake news. They’ll learn how to form and change opinions, and how to debate their views with empathy.

A beautifully illustrated title chock- full of fascinating animal facts from our bestselling, CBCA awardwinning Tasmanian children’s author/illustrator, Jennifer Cossins, that focuses on 25 animal species

Who loves a delicious, hot, salty chippy? Seagull mates Steve-O, Stanley and Stacey do . . . A hilarious graphic novel for readers aged 6+ from actor, animator and Tiktok sensation Sam Cotton.

$12.99 Hachette Australia

from Australia and around the world with intriguing migration journeys.

Did you know that Arctic terns have the longest migration of all birds, flying from the Arctic to Antarctica and back each year? Or that the wildebeest migration in east Africa is so vast it can be seen from outer space? Come along on these amazing animal journeys!

Perfect for readers aged 7+ who delight in learning about the animal kingdom and the world around them. $14.99 Hachette Australia

20 SPRING 2022

On a sunny Sydney wharf, Stacey and Stanley watch enviously as customers feed on as many hot salty chippies as they want. Fed up with having to scab for scraps with all the other seagulls, they seek out legendary chippy thief Steve-O to help them pull off the ultimate heist . . .

But first they’ll have to get past a seagull-hating chippy chef, deal with some bully bin chickens, and convince the World’s Best Chippy Chaser to overcome his dark past and join the team. $14.99 Penguin

Dirt by Sea Explore our wonderful coastline and the joy of a family roadtrip with Dad and Daisy!

Featuring 40 pages of extraordinary comic-style illustrations, this unique picture book will have you dreaming of a holiday around Australia or maybe even planning a van life with the help of the journey map in the endpapers.

The hugely popular creators of Why I Love Footy and Why I Love Summer are back together with a moving family story that is also a true celebration of what we love most about the Australian landscape, family holidays and classic Kombi vans.

Daisy lives in inland Australia with her dad and her grandparents. It’s home, and she loves the red dirt land around her.

Thank You, Teacher from The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show your teachers how much you appreciate them in this colorful book of thanks featuring The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

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Education

Screen time is shaping minds

By Casey Neill “IT’S time to think about screen use.”

Dr Michael C Nagel has co-authored Becoming Autistic: How Technology Is Altering the Minds of the Next Generation, with Dr Rachael Sharman.

The University of the Sunshine Coast academics explored the effects too much screen time and too little social time had on the developing brain.

Specifically, autistic traits are showing up in otherwise neurotypical children.

“I’ve had concerns about technology and the impact on child development for more than a decade,” Dr Nagel said.

“It may be having an impact we don’t quite understand yet.”

He said he’d come across worrying studies suggesting a rapid rise in the diagnosis of autism in the Western world.

“There seems to be a connection between screens and young, developing brains,” Dr Nagel said.

“The brain doesn’t fully mature until

“The message to parents is: be mindful of what your children need,” he said.

Or handing their children a phone in a cafe.

“Having a phone didn’t suddenly become a right.

“If you’re doing it continually, you’re taking away opportunities for the child to learn,” he said.

“You have to parent technology.

He said TVs also contributed, but were much more passive.

“You have to set up boundaries, and it’s much easier to do when kids are younger.

“It does add to the overall length of screen time,” he said.

“With teens, you have to wean them off slowly and create boundaries and borders.

“If kids are on screens before, during and after school…”

“It’s not about saying to kids ‘you can never use screens again’.

we’re well into our twenties.

Dr Rachael Sharman and Dr Michael C Nagel.

“It’s not about stepping back into the dark ages.”

“It’s susceptible to all kinds of environmental assault.”

He said data showed structural changes to the brain as a result of screen use in children.

“Whether that’s reversible or not is still unknown,” he said.

“We tried to map out what we think is happening based on evidence, and what you can do about it.

“We don’t think we can talk about how much time is too much time.

“We can’t create a controlled environment to test that.”

Rather, he said, they talked about what children needed for healthy development.

“If there’s any silver lining in the Covid cloud, it reaffirmed for us that people need to be with people,” he said.

Decades of research, he said, supported kids being with other children in real time, and able to read other people’s faces.

And it’s not only their own device use impacting kids.

“It’s really important for parents to remember your child’s social queues develop when they’re looking at your face,” he said.

“There are too many missed opportunities when parents are on their phones.”

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SPRING 2022 21

Kids Calendar

What's on this Spring

UNTIL 9 OCTOBER

19 SEPTEMBER

MAKING ART: IMAGINE EVERYTHING IS REAL

SPRINGTIME BOTANICALS

This free all-ages exhibition invites kids and their families to experiment with innovative ways of making their own works of art. It runs 10am to 5pm daily at National Gallery of Victoria, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne.

Hawthorn Arts Centre is hosting this ink painting workshop for kids aged 5 to 12 years from 10.30am to noon. The cost is $25, including materials.

Visit boroondara.vic.gov.au.

20 SEPTEMBER

YARNBOMBING WORKSHOP A significant Bayside landmark is going to be yarnbombed next winter, thanks to Bayside City Council and GLAD Rappers - and the community.

Contribute at this school holiday activity for the whole family at Brighton Town Hall, 2pm to 4pm.

STICKER FACTORY 3 SEPTEMBER

CASEY PET EXPO Enjoy a fun day out with your furry four-legged friend at Wilson Botanic Park Berwick.

Explore the park, participate in workshops, watch live demonstrations and chat with stallholders from the pet industry, from 11am to 2pm.

10 & 11 SEPTEMBER

MOON LANTERN FESTIVAL This free two-day event features cultural performances, food, and drinks, at Queensbridge Square, 3 Queens Bridge Street, Southbank.

18 SEPTEMBER

DOVETON SHOW The Doveton Show runs 10am to 4pm at Myuna Farm and features rides, animals, stalls, show bags and other attractions - all for a donation.

Visit dovetonshow.org.au for more.

In this workshop at Hawthorn Arts Centre, kids aged 5 to 12 years will use collage techniques and colourful materials to create their own stickers. The cost is $25 and all materials are provided.

The event runs 10.30am to noon. Visit boroondara.vic.gov.au.

Tickets are only available from royalshow.com.au. Melbourne Showgrounds is on Epsom Road, Ascot Vale.

Recommended for ages 4 and above, the show starts at 11am at Knox Community Arts Centre, 790 Mountain Highway, Bayswater.

21 & 22 SEPTEMBER, 28 OCTOBER

Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for children and $45 for a family of four from eventbrite.com.au.

THE ALPHABET OF AWESOME SCIENCE Professor Lexi Con has curated her favourite words - one for every letter of the alphabet - and Professor Noel Edge uses each one to inspire 26 quirky scientific demonstrations.

Recommended for children aged 5 and above. The 21 September shows start at 10am and 1pm at Bunjil Place, Narre Warren. Tickets are $18 from bunjilplace.com.au.

The 22 September show starts at 11am at Knox Community Arts Centre, 790 Mountain Highway, Bayswater.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for children and $45 for a family of four from eventbrite.com.au.

The 28 October show is on at 5pm at Costa Hall, Deakin University Geelong Waterfront, 1 Gheringhap Street, Geelong.

Tickets are $12. Call 1300 251 200 or visit www.geelongartscentre.org.au.

21 SEPTEMBER

DJIRRI DJIRRI DANCE WORKSHOP

27 SEPTEMBER

Kids aged under 13 years can join the Djirri Djirri Dancers to learn traditional Wurundjeri dances and how to sing in the Woiwurrung language. The show starts at 11am at The Memo, Healesville, 235 Maroondah Highway, Healesville.

BUNKASAURUS BY BUNK PUPPETS

Tickets are $12 for children and not required for accompanying adults. Call 1300 368 333.

22 SEPTEMBER TO 2 OCTOBER

MELBOURNE ROYAL SHOW This event returns after two years off promising new attractions, more fun, bigger smiles and greater value.= Children aged 14 years and under attend free, entry after 5pm is $25, save 25 per cent on rides by purchasing a ride pass with an admission ticket, and more.

Two silly guys are continually distracted from the serious work at hand and use puppetry and silent comedy to create a theatrical universe, steeped in imagination and creativity.

Bunk Puppets performances bring a focus on DIY puppet making using simple materials, and household items.

The show starts at 11am at Arts Centre, Warburton, 3409 Warburton Highway, Warburton.

Tickets are $20. Call 1300 368 333.

ESCAPE FROM TRASH MOUNTAIN This school holiday feature show is an epic tale of trashy proportions, featuring puppets and a message of sustainability.

30 SEPTEMBER

THE PLANETS WITH LAURA THE ASTRONAUT Inventi Ensemble plays The Planets against an animated backdrop in this narrated concert about cosmic adventurer Laura the astronaut.

The show starts at 11am at Montrose Town Centre, 935 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road, Montrose.

Tickets are $20. Call 1300 368 333.

18 OCTOBER

PEVAN AND SARAH IN CONCERT After two years of being beamed into classrooms and homes for remote learning, Pevan and Sarah are bringing the joy of their Cub Club music to Bunjil Place.

Students can sing, learn and laugh their way through a 50-minute adventure on a ‘typical’ day in the classroom, with shows at 10.30am and 12.30pm.

All tickets are $17 from www. bunjilplace.com.au.

23 OCTOBER

ELWOOD CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL Elwood Toy Library will present this event from 10am to noon at Chicken Park, 87 Tennyson Street, Elwood.

There will be a crepe van and coffee cart, face painting, Play Doh, interactive art, clay and nature crafts, a bubble show, garden games and Indigenous cultural learning.

Tickets go on sale on 1 October at www.elwoodtoylibrary.org. All proceeds will support the not-for-profit Elwood Toy Library.

Gates are open 9.30am to 9pm.

22 SPRING 2022

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