Ground-breaking place to play
OFFICER DISTRICT PARK
Tragedy sparks safety crusade
‘HOLD MY HAND’
Gogglebox mum Izzy opens up
‘I DIDN’T COPE’
We are listening to families and helping with the cost of living
Finding joy in an autumn reset
IT feels like this autumn has been a long time coming, at least in my household.
Between my daughter finishing kinder, umpteen Christmas celebrations, a family caravan getaway, my daughter starting Prep, work deadlines, and a late heatwave…this summer has dragged on for at least six months, surely?
I’ve been looking forward to a reprieve from the heat and some time to take a breath.
Autumn often feels like a reset for me. Life seems to slow down a little and nature welcomes visitors with open arms - cooler temperatures and stunning foliage bring me so much joy.
The Labour Day long weekend provides the opportunity for a little family getaway, and then there’s the school holidays - and Easter.
CONTENTS
IT’S YOUR LIFE
Steve Biddulph: When the child is not the problem
PAGE 4
Putting children first: what you need to know about family law changes from Shawn Mendis Lawyers
PAGE 4
Gogglebox’s Isabelle Silbery on struggling through her second pregnancy
PAGE 5
A Mindful Moment: Making mindfulness fun
PAGE 6
Advocating for families: MP Renee Heath PAGE 6
Cardinia Lakes Shopping Centre: Local shopping has its benefits PAGE 7
Officer District Park: Park play at its peak PAGES 8-9
Early intervention’s vital role in supporting autistic children: Abacus Learning Centre PAGE 10
Kids in the Kitchen: Gluten-free pizza scrolls PAGE 11
Helping busy families with the cost of living: MP Belinda Wilson
PAGE 12
Kidsafe tackles low-speed runover deaths, injuries
PAGE 13
Moulding tomorrow’s leaders: MP Ann-Marie Hermans
PAGE 13
I think I’ll appreciate the Easter break more than usual this year.
It’s always a time to relax with family, bake hot cross buns, don matching bunny-print pyjamas (for as long as my daughter will indulge me!), and enjoy a chocolate egg or two.
But this year, I’m sure my five-yearold will also relish the downtime after launching headfirst into her primary schooling. And I’m looking forward to spending some quality time with her, making up for the hours we’ve been separated by the classroom. I won’t mind taking a break from lunchbox duty, either.
Finding the balance between keeping her entertained and active and allowing her time to rest is a challenge for me.
REALITY BITES
How our community can help new parents with disability thrive
PAGE 14
Boy’s tragic death sparks mum’s traffic safety crusade
PAGE 15
Nanny Piggins’ return a homecoming for author RA Spratt PAGE 16
Genetic testing gifts Rachel and Blake their Grace PAGE 17
CHILDREN’S HEALTH
Special Care Australia: The place where care starts PAGE 18
Expanded newborn screening PAGE 19
Help! My child can’t sleep! PAGE 19
Supporting students to understand pelvic pain
PAGE 20
Autumn’s the perfect time to swim at Jump! Pakenham PAGE 20
ACTIVE KIDS
Getting kids hooked on fishing PAGE 21
Make it: Crafty fidget toy fun PAGE 21
EDUCATION
Family comes first at Kool Kidz Childcare PAGE 22
As will be fitting in every playdate she’s requested/planned with her friends! I’m going to have to work hard to keep the holidays from becoming just as busy as the school term.
How do you juggle school holiday R and R with activities and socialising?
We’d love to hear from you!
We’d also love to hear about your Easter traditions. Email casey.neill@ starnewsgroup.com.au or find us on Facebook or Instagram.
Casey Cardinia Kids magazine is a Star News Group publication. Casey Cardinia Kids will be published quarterly prior to each of the school holidays.
Casey Cardinia Kids
Cnr Princes Hwy and Army Road, Pakenham, 3810 PO Box 9, Pakenham, Victoria 3810 Phone: 5945 0666 Fax: 5945 0777
Editorial Casey Neill casey.neill@starnewsgroup.com.au
Photography Rob Carew
Group Advertising Sales Manager Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au Phone: 5945 0608
Schooling ROCKS at St Clare’s PAGE 23
A holistic and collaborative approach to education: St Therese’s Catholic Primary School
PAGE 23
Dolly’s Dream: Encouraging kids to be kind
PAGE 24
FiRST Early Learning: A sanctuary for learning, development and growth PAGE 25
FASHION
Autumn styles from Billy Lidz PAGES 26-28
BORN TO PERFORM
Ready, set, move at Cathy-Lea Studios PAGE 29
Dance Legacy: Forging a lasting legacy PAGE 30
Choir gives kids a place to belong: Melbourne Youth Chorale PAGE 30
SPORTS
Splash’s Swim School: bridging the gap for new adult swimmers PAGE 32
Asthma Action Plan a sport essential PAGE 33
Go gives kids a start in sport PAGE 33
BOOKS
Introducing the ‘funcle’ PAGE 34
Latest book releases for all ages PAGE 34
Kids come first in family law
ARE you going through a separation and trying to sort out your children’s matters?
You might be wondering how the changes in family law affect you.
In Australia, family law is being updated to make sure that children always come first.
The old rule that both parents must share equal responsibility has been set aside.
Instead, judges now consider many important factors, such as your child’s emotional needs, their development, cultural background, and, most importantly, their overall safety.
If there is any risk - for example, exposure to family violence - the court will design parenting arrangements that protect your child.
Another significant change is the Family Law Amendment (Information Sharing) Act 2023.
This new law allows the courts to quickly gather the latest information from police, child protection agencies, and other services.
With up-to-date details in hand, judges can make better decisions to shield children from abuse or neglect.
These reforms are designed to create a safer and fairer family law system during challenging times.
By focusing on what really matters, the safety, emotional well-being, and unique needs of each child, these changes support outcomes that are secure and compassionate.
At Shawn Mendis Lawyers, our friendly and experienced family law team in Pakenham is here to help you understand these changes.
We explain the law in everyday language and guide you through every step of the process.
Our goal is to ensure that every court decision truly reflects what is best for your child.
Shawn Mendis, Principal solicitor
If you would like more information or need legal advice, please contact us on 8774 9663, contact@ shawnmendislawyers.au or shawnmendislawyers.au.
When the child is not the problem
Often it’s easiest to blame a child when in fact it’s us who are the problem!
But there is a blame-free way to get through this,
writes STEVE BIDDULPH.
DESI is six. He has been seen by many specialists - paediatrician, art therapist, play therapist, psychologist.
The reason driving his parents to all this effort and cost is that he has ‘anger issues’. In plain language, flying off the handle, hitting or shouting or storming off when he gets stressed.
And Desi seems to be stressed nearly all the time.
But an important diagnostic clue is that at school he is mostly fine. So this was not likely to be a brain condition like ADHD - it was ‘situational’. It only happened at home.
So what might be wrong with him?
Do we need to look a bit wider?
Forty-five years ago I got my first real psychology job. It was in a new clinic being set up by psychiatrist Colin McKenzie, who had a radical idea.
We would always and only see children along with their family. This idea set off explosions among referring doctors and parents.
Why could we not just see the child?
A mum who is drowning in stress. Other children in the family bullying each other or having anxiety issues of their own.
Families are great places when they are loving, but when they implode they can be hell on wheels.
Launceston was a struggle town back then. Low income, uneducated families are often smart and resilient when they are given some respect, a voice, and some good information.
Over and again we found that by carefully unpacking exactly how things went astray, we could help a family find out how to be happy again.
Family therapy is based on a single life-changing principle: NO BLAME. Everyone in the family can help by changing some of their own actions or words. And small changes can lead to huge ones down the track.
Eventually, I came to focus on fathers because men were struggling the most. Many wanted to be a good dad above all else but had never seen a good dad in their lifetime.
I wrote Manhood, and then Raising Boys, because I felt we had to build a more loving and open-hearted kind of masculinity from the ruins of the industrial war-torn twentieth century. So many men were traumatised and the dads of the past had often been violent, or critical and harsh, or distant and buried in work. Or had walked out on their families.
Men needed help and healing to become something different
Dad wouldn’t want to come in, he saw it as his wife’s problem. Mum was too busy with other kids. And what did they have to do with it anyway?
Organizations like the Fathering Project sprang up and started dads groups in hundreds of schools, and resources and help for dads anywhere to link up and learn the craft of being a loving dad.
In fact, our clinic was soon filled with families as word spread, in our small working-class town of Launceston, that this approach seemed to really help.
With the whole family in the room, nine times out of ten we could get to the root of what was going on from the very first session.
And there were actually solutions, once you sat down in a safe space and had time to really talk.
Kids do not have problems in isolation. And very often a child’s problems are just signs of things going wrong for the adults too.
A dad who is impossible to live with, angry or insecure, always making things worse.
When Desi’s parents finally agreed to see a family therapist, their little boy’s anger issues were no mystery at all.
His dad was explosive whenever Desi was difficult, and the two detonated each other many times a day.
Desi’s dad had a terrible childhood and when he was helped, individually, to talk about and get past that, he was much easier to be around, and much happier too.
And Desi really improved as well. Steve Biddulph’s new book on healing anxiety is called Wild Creature Mind. Published by Pan Macmillan.
The Fathering Project is at fatheringproject.org.
Family lawyer Mohita Saha, principal solicitor Shawn Mendis, and legal executive Shantal.
‘Shouldn’t I be happy?’
By Casey Neill
ISABELLE Silbery knew she should have been excited when she learned she was pregnant with her daughter.
Instead, her stomach dropped.
Izzy, best known for her eight-year stint on Gogglebox alongside mum Kerry and grandmother Emmie, had welcomed a son with her first husband 10 years earlier.
“I was working full-time in a pretty demanding job,” she said.
“The pregnancy wasn’t great and the birth wasn’t either. It was quite quick and traumatic.
“My waters broke at home and I was rushed to the hospital.
“I didn’t know if I was going to make it to the hospital.
“I was dropped at emergency while my husband got a park.
“Because it was all so fast and he was huge, I did have a big tear.
“I didn’t know how to breastfeed.
“He also had a tongue tie which wasn’t diagnosed for a week. I was breastfeeding through agony.
“My son didn’t sleep for the first year.
“My marriage broke down.
“We didn’t cope with it.
“I didn’t cope with it.
“I equated having a baby with a really bad time.”
Falling pregnant with second husband Alex Richards took Izzy right back to that time.
“When I saw the pregnancy test come up positive with Ruby, I felt my stomach drop and I thought, ‘That’s weird, shouldn’t I be happy, shouldn’t I want this?” she said.
“I’m in a relationship, I’m happy, I’m a different person now, and I’m older.
“Everyone was so excited but I wasn’t.
“I was faking it a lot.
“I confided in Mum and she said, ‘You went through a lot with your first, your marriage and the divorce, and do you really think you’ve resolved all of that? I think you should go and speak to someone about it’.
So Izzy saw a prenatal psychologist at a women’s clinic, who said it was no wonder she wasn’t feeling overly joyous.
“I said things out loud about being left a single mum and the challenges it had on me physically and mentally,” she said.
“You think you close the door on something…
“I just worked through all of it.
“I was really able to share that with my current husband. He learned a lot about me and what I’d been through.
“His understanding and support really helped me.
“It was also really good to be honest with my outer circle.”
At school pick-up she spoke about her therapy journey with other parents.
“I got on some safe medication as well as doing therapy the whole way through,” she said.
“We had a whole plan in place in case the birth was traumatic again, or if I was sleep-deprived.
“I had a lot more things put in place beforehand instead of waiting for things to go bad.
“Ten years ago they just didn’t value it.
“Women’s health in general is only now just becoming ‘we need to invest in that and talk about that’.”
At 39 weeks, her obstetrician said: “Let’s take control of this. Your first birth was quick, the second will be quicker. I think for your mental health and making it to the hospital, let’s induce you and do it as beautifully and as controlled as we can.”
Izzy’s labour with Rub lasted only an hour.
“She was a bit smaller and I had my mum there and my partner’s mum there and my partner holding my hand,” she said.
“It was in a room full of women who were holding me physically and mentally.
“I literally just breathed her out.
“It was empowering - f*****g painful - but just really good.”
She had a supportive partner and hands-on dad by her side after returning home.
“He’s a stay-at-home dad and he did all the heavy lifting,” she said.
“I got the opportunity to rest as much as possible and focus on bonding with her and feeding her.
“Food was in the fridge and other mums would help me with pick-up and drop-off - maybe that’s because I was really honest and open about the situation.
“Things were done so I could be the best possible mum in recovery.”
A few months in, she needed more support and spent a week at Homb.
The Elsternwick postpartum recovery centre nurtures and empowers new mothers, striving to prevent postnatal depression and anxiety.
Izzy described her stay as “real respite”.
“Every mother should be offered this service,” she said.
“In lots of cultures and lots of other countries, that’s what they do - they stay at home and they’re fed and their babies are looked after.
“They literally stay in bed for the first six months.
“It takes a minimum of a year to get back to normal, physically and mentally, and that’s okay.
“It is really important to make a conscious effort to reconnect with yourself and also reconnect with your partner.
“Just because there’s little kids that need you, it’s really important to make adult time and have adult conversations and do what brought you together in the first place.
“Nothing is more important than our relationship, first and foremost, and then you can be the best parents after that.
“I get so nervous about leaving them, but you can, it will be fine.
“Just to take a moment for your own mental health as a mother.
“Get a massage, get your hair done, read a book in the sun, just to recharge those batteries.
“And don’t feel guilty about it.
“We’re programmed to think we’re at this thing’s beck and call.
“But they need the best version of us, not the completely f****d version of us.”
As well as working through her own concerns about welcoming a new baby, Izzy needed to prepare her son for stepping into the role of big brother.
“I was scared. I was nervous and scared,” she said.
“My son was not happy about another baby. He made that very clear.
“So I spent the whole pregnancy coaching him and just being there for him and reassuring him.
“I was really worried about him, to be honest.
“I was worried he’d feel on the outer because he was from a previous marriage.
“He said, ‘Will you still love me?’.
“I took him to a child psychologist. I encouraged him to chat to my mum and me.
“The door was open for him to sit with his feelings.”
Izzy’s support for her first-born paid off.
“He was so besotted by her,” she said.
“He’s just been amazing.
“All the fear and anxiety was gone from myself and him, I think, when he saw the new family dynamic and it was working and there love was for everybody.”
Ruby was 13 months old when we spoke.
“He’s just so amazing with me and her,” Izzy said.
“He can see when I need help, he can get me stuff.
“It’s quite empowering for him as a child.
“He’s growing up a bit more and having that responsibility and being caring.
“I’m so passionate about raising emotionally intelligent boys into men.
“Having that little sister in his family life is really a good opportunity for him to engage in that softer, nurturing side.”
He told Izzy she was a great mum, and that taking care of him on her own would have been hard.
“I think it made him really reflect,” she said.
Reflecting on her own experiences, Izzy had some simple advice for partners of new mums.
“Just encourage her to be gentle on herself,” she said.
“Just say, ‘We’ve got this, we’re a team. We’re doing this together’.” I
Making mindfulness fun
I have now realised that there are many occasions where mindfulness can be approached in a fun and light-hearted way.
And when teaching mindfulness to kids, this approach is particularly important.
effective ways to connect to the present moment.
Listening to music can be another enjoyable and light mindfulness practice. Choose a favourite song and really listen to it; for example, notice the instruments that are being played, carefully listen to the words, and be aware of how you feel as you listen to it.
Mindfulness doesn’t necessarily have to be done during an allocated period of time.
Instead, it can be practiced in small moments throughout the day.
In this way, music can have new meaning for you, rather than just being some noise in the background.
THIS may but mindfulness doesn’t be serious; in fact, it can actuall practisin
THIS may come as a surprise to some, but mindfulness doesn’t always have to be serious; in fact, it can actually be fun!
When I first started practising, I used to think that mindfulness solely involved setting aside a period of quiet and uninterrupted time, sitting in the traditional meditation pose, and approaching the whole practice with a heavy sense
to think that mindfulness s pe and time, s the traditional meditat and th with a hea of seriousness. However, after and m
However, after attending mindfulness and meditation retreats, taking part in regular yoga practices, and learning from the experts, my thinking has since shifted.
For example, when you’re walking outside, pay attention to what is happening - notice the concrete path beneath you, listen to the sound of leaves crunching under your shoes, and be aware of the scents you can smell.
Other activities that can be done mindfully are washing the dishes, having a shower, eating a meal, or brushing teeth. (When brushing your teeth, you could even try using your non-preferred hand and notice how that feels).
The key is simply to be present and stay connected in the present moment, even if only for a brief period.
Of course, it is still highly beneficial to take part in more formal practice when you can, where you set aside some time to be still with an empty mind and focus solely on the breath, the parts of the body, or sounds around you.
For kids integrating mindful moments throughout the day will be much more appealing and attainable. This is more likely to lead them to form regular mindful habits that will continue for years to come.
Fiona is an experienced primary school teacher with a passion for student wellbeing.
yoga pra and expert thinkin sinc
Moving your body with intention is another fun mindfulness practice.
For example, swinging your arms from side to side, raising your arms up to the ceiling and bringing them down again, or walking in slow motion while paying attention to the bones and muscles you’re using, are simple yet
She runs mindfulness programs to equip primary school-aged children with mindfulness strategies to help them lead healthier and happier lives.
Find more from Fiona at mindfulness4kids.com.au or search Mindfulness 4 Kids on Instagram or Facebook.
A family advocate
FAMILIES are the very core of our communities.
When families are doing well, the whole community comes to life.
I believe that when governments support families by creating the right environment for them to connect, prosper, and thrive, it is one of the greatest investments that can be made in our society.
Unfortunately, recent years have been tough on families.
Victorian families have been feeling the pressure of persistent rising costs for basic goods and services.
I have been speaking in Parliament on behalf of all the parents who worry about their children’s futures –whether they will be able to feed and clothe their children, whether their children will be able to receive a quality education, and someday afford a house and a family of their own.
One of the issues I’ve spoken about the most is improving access to quality education for children.
The latest reports show that nearly 30 percent of Victorian school children are struggling with literacy and numeracy.
I have consistently advocated for an evidence-based phonics program to ensure that our children are getting top-quality education in the basics of reading and writing.
Recently, our efforts led to an announcement by the State Government that phonics would be taught in Victorian public schools from next year.
I have also made it a priority to speak out against family violence.
Families and children deserve to be safe in their own homes, and there is no place in our community for violence and abuse against the most vulnerable.
That is why I have advocated for stronger sentences and more restrictive bail conditions for violent criminals.
I will continue to be a voice for those who want a better future, fighting to ensure that families and children will not be left behind.
Renee Heath, Eastern Victoria Region MP
Local shopping has its benefits
THE friendliness and familiarity of your local centre is a great place to shop.
The food options are varied and delicious at Cardinia Lakes Shopping Centre, with delivery and takeaway options still available, you can now get back to dine-in options too.
The wonderful team at Sugarcoat Nails and Beauty are well-equipped to help you feel fabulous for sandal season and to get your nails ready for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Pizza Fellas has a great range of pizzas that can be ordered online so they are ready for you when you pop in to pick up your dinner.
From their delicious salads to their tasty chicken, Uncle Sam’s Charcoal Chicken is a firm favourite in the neighbourhood for a quick and healthy meal.
Cardinia Lakes Fish and Chippery has delicious burgers, along with crispy chips and tasty fish for a favourite takeaway option.
Wok to Go rounds out the takeaway
options with tasty Asian dishes galore to tempt your tastebuds.
At Direct Chemist Outlet, the staff are dedicated to their customers’ well-being and will help you make the right choices about maintaining good health.
Their gift range is outstanding as well, and you’ll be able to find the perfect gift, or maybe something extra special for yourself.
Great breakfast and lunch options are on the menu at Urban Hype Cafe. Come and meet the friendly staff and grab something for lunch or morning tea. Their coffee is just divine.
Call in to the centre’s new barber shop at shop five, Fadeline Barbers, for a great haircut for adults and children. Walk-ins only.
Stay up to date by following Cardinia Lakes Shopping Centre on Facebook.
Park play at its peak
OFFICER is now home to a playground attracting visitors from across the state - and it’s only the beginning.
The 10-hectare Officer District Park is located on Lansell Avenue and was designed to provide opportunities for the local community to recreate, socialise, play, and connect.
Stage one of the adventure and nature park opened in December last year and was an instant hit with kids and the young at heart.
The multi-level playground features several play zones for all ages, plus two 20-metre-long slides.
Cardinia Shire’s first purpose-built parkour zone incorporates obstacles of different heights, angles, and shapes.
There are fitness stairs and workout equipment plus a 1km loop track, which runs around the hillside.
There’s a dedicated dog off-leash area and wetlands. A lookout from the top of the hillside showcases views over the southern part of the shire and out to Western Port.
Public toilets and picnic facilities will be built in the central plaza area, along with shelters and seating.
Pending future funding, a regionallevel skate park, mountain boarding tracks, and a cafe are all on the cards.
Our photographer Ljubica Vrankovic captured Noah, 3, and Arielle, 11, putting the impressive space through its paces.
Let us know if you check out this park, and your favourite places to play!
Early autism support ‘vital’
EARLY intervention is crucial for supporting autistic children and their families, especially during the first five years when brain development is rapid.
Timely access to diagnosis and intervention services significantly impacts outcomes and family wellbeing.
Abacus Learning Centre, a leading provider of early intervention services for autistic children in Victoria since 2008, now offers positive behaviour support (PBS) services, complementing its existing programs.
The waitlist is open for new enquiries.
Abacus provides personalised, evidence-based early intervention programs tailored to each child’s strengths and needs.
Its comprehensive approach covers speech, language, social skills, adaptive living, and play skills through engaging, play-based learning.
Abacus offers centre, community, and home-based support, making learning flexible and enjoyable.
The dedicated clinical team of more than 60 staff implements life-changing programs aimed at enhancing, reducing, maintaining, and generalising target behaviours.
Families often describe their first meeting with Abacus as ‘a warm hug and a light at the end of a tunnel’.
Parents frequently express joy as they witness their child’s progress, seeing improvements in communication, behaviour, socialisation, and independence.
Abacus creates a positive, supportive environment where autistic children can thrive and reach their full potential.
As a registered NDIS provider, Abacus focuses on bestpractice therapy to improve long-term outcomes for autistic children, benefiting the child, their family, and the community. For more information, visit www. abacuslearning. org.au.
Gluten-free pizza scrolls
WHEN I was 11, I was allowed to go home at lunchtime on Fridays and make mini pizzas for my school friends and me.
I was in Year 6, we lived across the road from my primary school, and I thought this was awesome – the pizza part, that is. Living so close to school also meant I never had the excuse of leaving homework at home!
Mum would preheat the oven for me and I’d get all my toppings ready in the morning.
I’d cut a circle out of puff pastry, smear it with tomato paste, and add sliced ham, a sprinkle of dried herbs, and a good handful of cheese.
They’d bake until golden and bubbling, then I’d whisk them back across the road – wrapped in aluminium foil to keep them warm - to my awaiting friends.
My gluten-free pizza scrolls are an updated version of these.
They’re perfect for little lunchboxes and eating with one hand for the kids more interested in playing than fiddling around with something to eat.
Millet and buckwheat flours, and yoghurt all add protein to keep tummies fuller for longer, and making the dough is a great sensory experience for kids to enjoy.
Makes: 16
Prep time: 20-minutes
Cook time: 30-minutes
Ingredients:
■ 2 cups gluten-free flour (I use equal parts millet, buckwheat, and arrowroot flours)
■ 2 tsp baking powder
■ 2 Tbsp psyllium husk
■ 1 cup whole milk yoghurt
■ 1 tsp sea salt
■ Tomato passata
■ 1 cup shredded mozzarella
■ 1 cup shredded tasty cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200’C. Lightly grease a muffin tray with olive oil and place in the oven.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine flour, yoghurt, psyllium husk, baking powder, and salt and mix with a wooden spoon until everything is
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 pro- cessed 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
well combined. If the dough is too wet, wait a few minutes and allow the psyllium husk to absorb some of the moisture. You may need to add another tablespoon of flour until it’s no longer sticky.
3. Divide the dough into two.
4. Sprinkle a little flour over a sheet of baking paper and use your hands and fingers to shape one piece of dough into a rectangle about 20x25cm and 5mm thick.
5. Smear the dough with a small amount of tomato passata then sprinkle with grated cheese.
6. Working from the short edge, gently – this is a gluten-free dough so it will be much less forgiving – begin to roll your dough until you have a long sausage, pinching closed the edges and any areas that may split. Then slice into eight pieces. Repeat with the second piece of dough.
7. Place pizza scrolls, cut side up, in your pre-heated muffin tray, and cook for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden.
8. Remove from the tray and allow to cool before serving.
9. Store in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Visit www.lucystewartnutrition.com or follow @lucystewartkidsnutrition on Instagram for more.
Helping busy families with living costs
AS a mother of three, I know it’s families that are bearing the brunt of the cost of living.
The State Government is investing in the future of every Victorian family.
That’s why we’re listening – and helping to ease the pressure on household budgets.
That includes free kinder for every three and four-year-old – saving families up to $2500 every child, every year.
Not only does it save families money, it’s helping parents – particularly mums – juggle work and home.
Families just want the best for their kids. The best education, the right textbook, a fresh uniform, the camps and excursions they’ll remember forever.
Our $400 School Saving Bonus is doing just that – helping give kids a great start to the school year and their parents one less thing to worry about.
But kids can’t learn on an empty stomach – that’s why we’re also supporting families by expanding School Breakfast Clubs to every government school, giving students a free, healthy breakfast before school every day.
Good health is essential for staying focused at school. And our Smile Squad is ensuring that all Victorian government school students can get the high-quality dental care they need, at school – for free.
We’re on the side of Victorians who are feeling the pressure and we’re helping families save in big ways and small.
Because all of it adds up.
Belinda Wilson, Narre Warren North MP
MORE than 40 children are killed or injured in low-speed vehicle runover incidents in Victoria each year, on average.
Kidsafe Victoria says while hospitalisation rates have decreased over the past decade, the number of fatalities has not, highlighting a spike of six deaths in 2023.
Between 2012 and 2023, children aged one to five was the age group most commonly involved.
The vehicle was moving forward in 72 percent of incidents, which was very different to previous data, which highlighted reversing vehicles as the main culprit.
Most incidents happened when the driver was returning home, leaving home, or repositioning the vehicle.
“Behind every statistic is a family whose lives have been irreparably damaged by the trauma and lifelong grief for their child,” Kidsafe Victoria CEO Sarah Sexton said.
“These are more than just numbersthey are tragedies that ripple through families and communities.”
So Kidsafe Victoria, with support from the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) and in collaboration with key stakeholders, developed the Low Speed Vehicle Runover Prevention Strategy.
“The strategy identifies the critical
Highlighting low-speed deaths, injuries
factors contributing to these tragedies, such as vehicle design, human factors, and property design,” Ms Sexton said.
“It also sets a framework for action through education, technology initiatives and advocacy.”
Key focus areas include:
■ Promoting safer vehicle design and developing life-saving technologies to be retrofitted to older vehicles;
■ Enhancing driveway layouts to reduce hazards; and
■ Raising awareness about supervision, blind spots, and safe driveway practices.
“We need collective action to prevent
these avoidable incidents,” Ms Sexton said.
“By working together, we can create safer environments and protect our children.”
Victoria Police Road Policing Command Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said attending collisions involving young children and assisting families who have lost a child in a low-speed runover were “among the most difficult of duties we undertake as police officers”.
“These incidents are preventable, which makes the loss even more poignant for the families involved and the wider community,” he said.
Moulding tomorrow’s leaders
THE nature versus nurture debate is a long-standing discussion in education.
Some argue that children are the product of their genetic makeup, while others believe their environment and upbringing play a larger role.
In reality, both factors contribute to a child’s development.
Dr Haim Ginott, a renowned child psychologist, observed that “children are like wet cement; whatever falls on them makes an impression”.
This means that while a child’s innate temperament may stay the same, their environment, education, and upbringing will shape the person they become.
In our kids’ early years, my husband Mark was passionate about
homeschooling them.
Given my teaching background, this was outside my usual thinking, and though it lasted only two years, it was a time of growth for all of us.
I invested in their learning, fostering their unique qualities, and encouraging integrity and a love of learning.
This formative stage is crucial, which is why investing in kindergarten education can be so important.
As the Shadow Assistant Minister for Education, I recently raised the issue of kindergarten funding with the State Government in Parliament.
While promising free kinder during the last state election, about 400 children in the City of Casey are missing out.
With a broken budget, the government is struggling to fulfill its $14 billion promise.
I spoke on the:
■ Limited availability of kindergarten spaces in Casey;
■ The process and timeline for enrolling children;
■ The consistency of kindergarten programs across the state;
■ Financial barriers for families and their children’s future academic success; and
■ Challenges for vulnerable children transitioning from home-based learning to group settings.
If your child missed out on a place in
kindergarten this year, please reach out to me.
en h out to me.
I’m here to listen and advocate for you.
Ann-Marie Hermans, South Eastern Metropolitan Region MP
ate e Hermans, ern an P
ANN-MARIE HERMANS MP
Support without judgement REALITY BITES
DR CAMMI
MURRUP-STEWART’S journey through pregnancy and motherhood has been complex.
The Gidget Foundation Australia ambassador is a proud Indigenous woman living with mobility, pain, and fatigue disabilities as well as hearing loss.
The mental health researcher and academic faced a lot of anxiety about her ability to parent with her disabilities.
Once her daughter, Arinya, was born, Cammi had to find an approach to motherhood that suited her body while navigating a healthcare system that did not understand her needs.
I remember a conversation I had with friends when I was considering starting a family - I shared that I was terrified that I wouldn’t be able to do it.
Parenting is the hardest thing people can do, and parenting with a disability can be like stepping into a giant unknown.
I wasn’t sure how my body would cope, what the health implications would be for my child, how I would be able to care for a toddler running around when I couldn’t go everywhere or hear everything.
I was scared. But I wanted a child.
My friends who already had children kept saying, ‘You’ll be fine’.
It felt like they were brushing off my fears, but in hindsight, they were trying to say, ‘You’ll never be “ready” and everyone has their challenges’.
They knew me and my partner, knew our strengths and abilities, and knew they would be there to support me.
On reflection, much of the fear we had was because of the way ‘good’ and ‘bad’ parenthood is portrayed in our society.
We see this upheld in patriarchal ideas of bubbly stay-at-home mums visiting playgrounds, supported by happy and hardworking husbands, or social media ideas of funny mums with cute kids that might be a bit messy but definitely have the perfect sleep routine.
This is despite the fact we know most families don’t fit that idea of perfect.
Housing and food is expensive, climate change is terrifying, parental leave is never enough, and breastfeeding is HARD but so is formula feeding.
My kids won’t react the same way your kids will, the routine you have doesn’t fit with the chaos I have.My family’s cultural makeup means we do things differently to yours. But this is all okay.
Parenting with a disability: The emotional and physical toll For those of us navigating parenthood with a disability, the journey often includes layers of physical and emotional complexity that others might not see.
Managing health needs while caring for a little one can feel isolating and overwhelming, particularly when formal support systems fall short, and this can take a real toll on mental health, especially without adequate support systems.
In those early days, it’s easy to feel alone or unsure where to turn.
I recall a meeting with an occupational therapist, who was to help me set up my supports under NDIS while I had a very young newborn.
I wanted to know the equipment, services, and adjustments available to make parenting easier. Hearing this professional simply state that they didn’t know was terrifying.
They didn’t know how I was meant to use a cot in the manner recommended when I was in a wheelchair.
I explained to the maternal health nurse that I was really tired. They said that was normal for new mums, ignoring that my tiredness was compounded by my chronic illness and I needed help.
I was fortunate to have my mum’s help and a GP who went the extra mile in understanding my needs and my anxieties and coming up with helpful solutions, but I needed more than helpful professionals.
A message to friends, family, and community members
For parents like us, a community that understands and offers support without judgement can make all the difference in the world.
Sometimes it’s having a friend go and Google your conditions so they don’t pepper you with questions.
Sometimes it’s offering to change a meeting time to suit your needs.
Sometimes it’s a text message in the middle of the night to check in and ensure you’re not doom-scrolling and feeling lonely.
Sometimes it’s facing down the busybodies who stare in disapproval when you, a young and healthy-looking person, park in a disabled bay with your baby and disability parking permit.
So to the friends, family, and community members of parents with disabilities or parents of children with disabilities, know that your support truly matters.
Your encouragement, small gestures, and practical help can make a powerful impact on mental health and resilience.
If you’re wondering how to help, tackling ableism and creating space for our realities can make a huge difference.
Sometimes just being there to listen without judgment or giving us a chance to talk openly about our experiences is the greatest gift you can offer.
And sometimes, kids can offer the best example of that.
My daughter’s kinder classmates are fascinated by my wheelchair, asking questions their parents wouldn’t dare.
But their simple acceptance of difference (and joy at the idea of ‘riding’ in a wheelchair) gives me so much hope.
We can all learn so much from them.
By creating a culture of care and understanding, you are not only supporting that parent, you’re strengthening the entire community.
Building a culture of empathy and understanding
At the end of the day, community is about shared values, kindness, and empathy.
It can feel like many of those principles are lacking in our society at the moment.
Recognising the unique needs of parents with disabilities, or parents of children with disabilities, creates an environment where everyone is encouraged to ask for support without stigma.
For parents with disabilities, a supportive community can make the difference between isolation and connection, between struggle and resilience.
Sometimes we need help to build our self-compassion. We need that reminder that everyone does things differently and that we have each other’s backs.
Every small, thoughtful act from friends and neighbours can have a powerful effect on mental wellbeing.
Hold your child’s hand
By Casey Neill
AT what age would you stop holding your child’s hand when crossing the street or walking through a car park?
Bereaved mother and road safety advocate Michelle McLaughlin says many parents are unaware that studies recommend hand-holding up to age 10.
“Holding your child’s hand is as important as putting a seatbelt on them in the car,” she said.
“They lack peripheral vision, their hearing isn’t great - they can’t discern where a vehicle’s coming from if they can’t see it.
“Their height restricts them from being seen by a driver.
“They’ve got slower reflexes - their brain and their body processes at a slower speed - so they keep taking those extra steps, which could put them in peril.”
Michelle’s son Tom stepped away from his family, onto the road, into the path of an oncoming car while on a holiday in January 2014. He died before help arrived.
“It was just really busy on that day; lots of parked cars on the street,” she said.
“Those towns are very quaint and beautiful, but they often lack infrastructure like curbs and gutters. It all played a part.
“I never for one moment imagined that our family would have to go through something like that.
“Little Blue Dinosaur, that’s been a healing entity for our family, and knowing that we’re doing all we can.”
Through the Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation (LBDF), Michelle has spent the past 10 years pushing to make Aussie roads safer for child pedestrians.
“The strong message that we really push is ‘hold my hand’ because since Tom’s accident, obviously we’ve been involved in a lot of research,” she said.
“We’ve done a two-year research pilot study looking into the causation of pedestrian deaths in Australia.”
They used 20 years of coronial data.
“Nothing’s changed there with the numbers,” Michelle said.
“It’s still one child every week dying in road trauma.
“That adds up to a lot of children every year.
“It leaves a massive impact on families long-term.
“You can’t ever find any justification in your mind because these are young, healthy, beautiful, vibrant children.
“They’re taken in a microsecond moment. It’s happening all too often.
“It’s the most stressful event that can take place in a person’s life, if they lose a child - in any circumstances, but particularly suddenly or traumatically.”
Her daughter, husband David, and in-laws witnessed the tragedy. Michelle was inside with her one-year-old son.
“We’ve really changed our whole life around since this tragedy happened,” she said.
“It affects your relationships, your daily responsibilities.
“Parents who go through this are at a higher risk of suicidal ideation, risk of alcohol and substance abuse, a lot of sleep disturbance from the trauma of having gone through an event like that.
“The other impact is marriage breakdown.”
Losing a child also hits families financially, including long-term counselling and other medical bills.
“People can’t necessarily immediately go back to work,” Michelle said.
“My husband had a lot of trouble concentrating at work.
“His business declined significantly for two years.
“I had been a nurse but I couldn’t go back and work in a high-stress environment anymore.
“I went into a hole and just managed looking after my baby boy and picking my daughter up from school.
“People keep away because they don’t want to disturb you. Yet you need all those little helping hands.”
Michelle said LBDF and Macquarie University studied the support services available for families who’d lost a child to road trauma.
“We’re really lacking practical assistance,” she said.
“Specialised support programs should be investigated.
“For 10 years I’ve tried in earnest talking to various MPs.
“I walked 10 kilometres in a day around Parliament House.
“There needs to be more action than just words from politicians and government.
“We try to advocate strongly on the research front and on the community awareness side.
“I wrote a book called Tom’s Holiday for the preschoolers.
“In the back of the book I made sure that it had educational information for parents.”
LBDF has also worked with 76 of Australia’s 537 local government areas to install colourful safety signage around playgrounds and busy roads and deliver education in preschools.
“If it could run in every LGA I think it would help and be impactful in preventing child road deaths,” Michelle said.
“Our studies show educational interventions like LBDF safety signage increase awareness of child pedestrian safety in the community.”
The talks in kinders include education on different types of roadways.
“I don’t even think in some of these places that children recognise them as roads,” she said.
“Discuss one aspect of road safety with your child every single day.
“Eventually it will sink in and stick.” For more information on The Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation or to make a tax-deductible donation, visit www.littlebluedinosaur.org.
By Casey Neill
WRITING a new Nanny Piggins story was like returning to a second home for author RA Spratt.
“Their universe is in my brain,” the mother of two teenage daughters said of the characters.
“They were just waiting for me to come back to them.
“It’s a strange magic in my head. They’re like real people.”
Penguin Random House Australia published Nanny Piggins and the Origin Story late last year - about 10 years after the last book in the series was released.
“I’ve done so much since - I’ve written 18 other books since,” RA said.
“She was my first series of books and she was such a great character.”
So much so that Nanny Piggins narrates RA’s popular podcast Bedtime Stories with RA Spratt.
“She has such blisteringly confident views,” RA said.
“No matter what goes wrong, she’s never worried.
“She‘s so proactive and positive.
“She was such a great character to bring back for the Covid times.
“She solved everyone’s problems.”
After the world’s most glamorous flying pig came to life on the podcast, fans asked RA to write a prequel to the series following Nanny Piggins’ life after she left the circus. She delivered.
“She always eludes to things that
happened before she landed at the Greens’ house,” she said.
“I got to unpack and revisit so many characters.
“You go back emotionally to when she’s a piglet and he’s unsure of herself.”
Nanny has 13 identical sisters - all of them evil.
“That was fun to revisit,” RA laughed.
“It was so hard to keep track of who was who and how they were evil.
“The ringmaster, when he appears, he’s such a fun character, short and fatbottomed with an amazing moustache.
“Somehow the book ended up in Bolivia. I’ve never been to Bolivia!
“I listen to podcasts about history because I love history.
“I wanted to set it somewhere landlocked.”
So she travelled to South Americaalmost. She dived into a research rabbit hole and used Google Maps to ‘walk’ the streets.
“It makes it easier to explain the minutia of what a street would look like,” she said.
“That was fun, now I want to go to Bolivia.”
Nanny Piggins exposes readers to geography and science, expanding their ideas about the wonder of the world.
She also offers comfort to readers with anxiety, RA said. Parents often message her to say the stories have helped their children through tough times, from chemotherapy to Covid lockdowns.
“Nanny Piggins has this amazing talent
Nanny’s return a homecoming for author
for making people feel better,” she said.
“I’m proud of that and that’s wonderful feedback to get.
“I’m proud of how much I’ve been able to help kids with anxiety, especially through Covid.
“People talk about literacy all the time, but stories are very important to children’s emotional development.”
Her favourite feedback came in the form of a tweet from a parent about her Friday Barnes series.
It said they were cross with her because their daughter missed the bus that morning, engrossed in Friday’s world.
“That’s the highest compliment for a book,” RA laughed.
“My goal has always been to entertain children.
“I want them to enjoy sitting down and reading a book.
“It sounds like a small thing, but it’s actually a really big thing.
“When you tell a story to a child you can tell when you catch their imagination.
“There’s a moment where their eyes go a little bug and you can see you’ve captured their attention.
“You know it’s going to be a good book.”
RA finds it easy to tap into - and write for - her inner child.
“I think emotionally I’m pretty much frozen as an 11-year-old,” she said.
“I’m very good at remembering the way things felt when I was a kid.
“I was a difficult kid, probably.
“I didn’t smile a lot and that used to disturb people.
“When you’re young there’s so much emotion.
“I remember the horror of having Target jeans when everyone else had Levis.
“I used to go to the library a lot.
“All there was to do was ride your BMX around and go to the library or Coles.
“I read everything for my age group, and probably some things I shouldn’t have read.
“I listened to heaps of audiobooks on cassette.”
RA was a TV writer for 10 years before she became an author.
“My spelling and grammar is so bad it never occurred to me that I could have been an author,” she laughed.
Her TV journey began with work experience on Good News Week when she was 22. She was handed three news clippings from the week and wrote jokes about them.
“These jokes are frighteningly good!” was the response.
She explained that writing them was like haiku.
“Every word, every syllable matters,” she said.
“You need to twist it to surprise the audience and make them laugh out loud.
“I’m a comedy writer at heart.
“I could just come up with stories all day long.”
REALITY BITES
By Casey Neill
Rachel’s saving Grace
RACHEL Boyle knows the value of genetic testing all too well.
The Woori Yallock mum’s heartbreaking loss of two babies could have been avoided had she and husband Blake discovered the perfect storm lurking in their DNA sooner.
“I just want people to not have to go through what I’ve gone through,” she said.
“If you spend $800 or $1000 on extensive genetic testing, it’s worth not losing a child’s life.
“If nothing comes up you’ve got peace of mind.
“Everyone thinks it won’t happen to them.”
Rachel and Blake decided to try for a baby shortly after their wedding.
“We got pregnant after a few months and had our son Kai,” she said.
They wanted two children close in age, so tried for another baby when Kai was nine months old.
“We very luckily fell pregnant first go,” she said.
“But there were complications at 20 weeks.
“Our second son, Caden, was born at 24 weeks.
“It was a complicated birth that nearly ended my life, to the point where they had to choose to save me or the baby.
“He was born alive, magically, at only 424 grams.
“He was taken to the NICU where we thought we were just going to have a long road letting him grow.
“After six days he was too sick, he had a brain bleed and we had to make the decision to take him off life support.”
Rachel and Blake asked questions about what had happened and tests they could take.
Their medical team told them they were ‘just unlucky’ and ‘these things happen’.
“They said we were safe to try again for another baby,” Rachel said.
She waited for her body to recover then again fell pregnant.
“Everything was fine up to 20 weeks when I was hit with the same complications,” she said.
“The baby wasn’t growing properly.”
Rachel developed preeclampsia, which affected the baby’s growth even further.
“I was admitted to hospital for two months because my body was shutting down,” she said.
Covid had Melbourne locked down so toddler Kai couldn’t visit his mum.
“That’s not normal for a child to be kept away for months on end,” Rachel said.
She had scans, medications, and tests every day.
“It got to a point where she wasn’t growing properly so we had to do a c-section to give her the best chance to survive,” she said.
Ava was delivered at 27 weeks but weighed only 500g.
“She cried when she came out. That gave us a lot more hope,” Rachel said.
Doctors started to believe something genetic was at play.
“After nine days we had to take her off life support,” Rachel said.
“There was nothing more the doctors could do.
“Our amazing fetal medicine specialist…she wanted to push for genetic testing but it was expensive and not guaranteed to find anything.
“They’d never seen what had happened to Caden and Ava.”
So a rare genetic study examined DNA from Rachel, Blake, Caden, and Ava “to look for whatever they could find”.
“It was an excruciating wait,” Rachel said.
“I didn’t know if I’d ever be able to have another baby.
“About 10 months later they got the first round of genetic results.”
Rachel and Blake both carried a rare gene, LARS1, which causes infantile liver failure syndrome. Only 25 cases had been recorded worldwide.
It affects every organ in the body and is not normally compatible with life.
“It was amazing to have an answer as to why they were sick and why Kai was OK,” Rachel said.
“He had skipped the gene.
“It was also a relief to know that choosing to take them off life support was the right decision.
“Once we were given an answer as to why it happened, we were provided with some possible ways to have another baby in the future if we wanted to.
“We could try naturally and at 16 weeks have to do some intensive testing. If the baby carried the disorder we would have to terminate.
“The other option was doing IVF and picking an embyro that was not affected.”
They took the IVF route.
“We didn’t want to have to make the decision to terminate,” she said.
“We didn’t want to give up on our dream of having two living children so we decided to try even though we were terrified.”
They created four healthy embryos and transferred one successfully.
“Then we began the very difficult pregnancy, waiting to see if we would lose another baby to another problem,” Rachel said.
“Even though it was a tested embryo, there was still a small chance she’d be affected - it’s not 100 percent.
“We had to wait for 16 weeks to do an amniocentesis - which is risky, it can cause miscarriage - and hope that the embryo testing was good enough.”
Throughout her pregnancy, Rachel had weekly scans and wellbeing checks plus monthly psychological checks.
“It was probably more hard mentally than physically,” she said.
“With Caden and Ava, it was taking every ounce of my energy to keep them alive.”
She couldn’t speak highly enough of the support she received from her medical team.
“They always talked about Caden and Ava,” she said.
“We would laugh about this baby trying to prove to us that it would all be OK because she was so big.”
Rachel was due to have a planned c-section at 36 weeks - the way her c-section to deliver Ava was performed meant a chance of uterine rupture if the pregnancy progressed any further.
“I was trying to count down to the c-section date, getting more and more hope but also terrified that hope would be crushed again,” she said.
Blake dissociated.
“He didn’t have to feel the pregnancy so he was just pretending like I wasn’t pregnant, because it was too hard to think about,” she said.
“He was still supportive, he came to every appointment, but he was detached from any hope that she would make it.
“His biggest worry about trying again was losing me because he’d nearly lost me twice.”
Kai, then 3, was very excited about the prospect of a living sibling.
“At such a young age he had already
been through the loss of his brother and his sister,” Rachel said.
“He met them, he knew that they died.
“He would ask, ‘Is this baby going to live, is this baby going to come home?’.
“We had to tell him the truth: ‘We don’t know, we’ll just wait and see’.
“He’s extremely empathetic now because of what he’s been through.
“He’s had to mature a lot quicker than he should have.
“We feel a lot of guilt about that.”
Two days before her c-section date, Rachel started going into labour.
“Our whole medical team was notified and they tried to slow it down, but it wouldn’t slow down,” she said.
So they decided to deliver Grace early.
Right before the surgery, two rainbows appeared in Rachel’s hospital room, on the wall and the bed.
“The doctors just cried,” she said.
“It was like a sign that it was nearly time and she was going to be OK.”
The doctors who’d cared for Rachel, Caden, and Ava were present, and photos of Caden and Ava were in the room.
“When she was born it was like a relief and a release, just that she was alive,” Rachel said.
“They put her on my chest and let me just cuddle her.
“I just couldn’t believe it. It was like a dream.
“She didn’t need any special care time.
“Kai got to come meet her; it was beautiful.”
Then came the time to take Grace home.
“That was hard because we didn’t believe it was going to happen,” Rachel said.
“We’d prepared and bought stuff but we hadn’t let ourselves imagine bringing her home, after trying for nearly four years.
“Then we felt this huge responsibility. She’s here, she’s alive, now we’ve got so much health anxiety and fear of something happening.
“I was tracking every mill of milk and every minute of sleep.
“I was trying to breastfeed and pump and formula feed.
“I thought she was going to die.
“We had to go back to hospital a couple of times.
“What we dreamed of we had had in front of us, but it was so clouded still with trauma and grief and now anxiety.
“She had really bad reflux, she was crying a lot, I was scared of something happening.”
Rachel finally had her happy ending but instead felt a complex mix of emotions.
Grace was nearly one when we spoke.
“I’m loving it now. I feel really at ease with her,” she said.
“I’m still just processing that she’s actually here safely.
“But seeing her and Kai play is the thing I dreamed of the most, just having someone for him to play with.
“He’s obsessed with her. She’s obsessed with him.
“That’s all I wanted.”
(Stacie Lee Photography)
The place where care starts
SPECIAL Care Australia believes that care begins with a personalised touch.
Its person-centred approach ensures that each participant remains engaged and focused while building their capacity.
As a trusted provider of disability support services, Special Care Australia is dedicated to delivering programs that strike the perfect balance between fun and learning.
Designed with inclusivity, engagement, and compassion at their core, the organisation’s offerings guarantee that every participant finds joy and exploration in their journey.
Yama Group
Special Care Australia’s Yama Group takes its name from the word for ‘hello’ in the Gamilaroi language.
This name reflects the organisation’s commitment to acknowledging the traditional owners of the land and incorporating Aboriginal language into its daily operations, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all participants.
School Holiday Program
Special Care Australia’s School Holiday Program runs for all term breaks, with the next one scheduled from 7 to 21 April.
This program is tailored for young people with special needs aged 6 to 18 years.
It offers a variety of engaging activities designed to support their development.
All school holiday program details can be found on our website calendar.
Yama Group weekend activities
These activities provide respite for parents of students with special needs.
Special Care Australia offers pick-up from school on Friday afternoons, followed by fun activities on Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday.
Students return home on Sunday evening after a fun-filled weekend.
Yama Disco
This event creates a fun and engaging environment for our under-18 students, helping them build resilience, create new connections, and enhance their capacity and independence.
Inclusive Growth and Social Development Program (4 to 10 years) This focuses on capacity-building and providing therapeutic support.
It aims to build social skills and resilience and implement routine and structure in different environments while maintaining high expectations for students.
Person-Centred Approach
Special Care Austalia’s programs are meticulously designed to focus on capacity building and skill development, tailored to meet the unique needs of each student.
The organisation adopts a personcentred approach.
Through various activities, Special Care Australia aims to enhance participants’ life skills, independence, and social connections.
Whether through creative arts, physical activities, or community engagement, the organisation’s goal is to empower students to achieve their fullest potential.
All staff are qualified and trained, with most having a teaching background, thus reinforcing Victorian Curriculum strands and patterns.
For more information about the program and how to enrol, visit specialcareaust.com.au, call 0410 770 722, or email intake@specialcare.au.
CHILDREN’S HEALTH
Help! My kid can’t sleep!
SLEEP habits change as children grow, but a misalignment between the amount of sleep needed and the actual sleep obtained can lead to problems like anxiety, low mood, and underperformance in school - not to mention the impact it can have on the entire family’s functioning.
As the sun sets and it becomes dark, the body’s homeostatic sleep drive sets in and melatonin is produced - a chemical in the brain that helps a person fall asleep.
In younger kids, problems in settling to sleep and waking in the middle
of the night are the most frequent sleep problems.
Difficulties in sleep onset can be due to an altered body clock associated with a delayed melatonin peak and/or decreased melatonin output - seen in some children who are on the autistic spectrum, or due to prolonged exposure to blue light from screens.
It can also be due to sleep anxiety or fear of dark/sleeping alone in little kids, while older kids might lie in bed and ruminate over their worries.
Chronic sleep deprivation is reported in 70 percent of Aussie teens, attributed to late sleep onset, primarily due to high screen times.
Sleep deprivation impacts not only physical health - leading to lethargy and tiredness in the daytime - but also affects behaviour and can lead to anxiety, low mood, and underperformance academically or at work.
Tired, irritable, and emotionally and mentally vulnerable teens are more inclined to opt for unhealthy, high-carb, fatty foods.
Coupled with sedentary lifestyle choices, not going out into the daylight, and not getting enough physical exercise, this puts them at risk of the early onset of chronic medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity.
Low mood and chronic anxiety affect their mental health as well.
There are several strategies that can help improve sleep and thereby physical and mental health, and consequently academic/work performance.
Establish a consistent sleep routine, limit the use of technology before bed, and keep the bedroom dark, quiet, and cool.
Avoid stimulating foods or drinks, like caffeinated beverages, or heavy exercise late in the evening. Instead, engage in quiet activities before bedtime.
Encourage separation of screens from the bedtime routine - no technology at least one hour before bedtime.
For younger kids, consider reward systems for adhering to sleep schedules or staying in bed, visual schedules for understanding sleep routine, and age-appropriate mindfulness or relaxation practices for anxiety.
If sleep problems persist or are associated with daytime behavioural or cognitive (memory/focus/logical thinking) difficulties, it might be necessary to see a healthcare professional to rule out any medical conditions that could be affecting sleep.
It could also be worth considering medication for a short time, if necessary, while establishing good sleep habits.
Good sleep is essential for physical and mental health, so address any sleep problems in children and young people as soon as possible.
I’m optimistic that with these interventions, we can improve both their sleep quality and overall health.
Dr Charanjit Kaur, Pakenham paediatrician
Expanded newborn screening
VICTORIAN newborns will now be screened for an additional rare and serious genetic disorder free of charge.
Testing for galactosaemia will be included in Victoria’s newborn bloodspot screening program, run by the Victorian Clinical Genetics Services.
Commonly referred to as the ‘heel prick test’, the newborn bloodspot screening program is designed to help parents get their children early treatment for rare health conditions so they can live long, healthy lives.
This latest addition means the screening program now tests for 32 conditions and is offered to parents of all newborns within their first 72 hours of life.
Galactosaemia is a rare genetic condition that prevents the body from metabolising galactose, a type of sugar found in milk and other dairy products.
The most serious form of galactosaemia occurs in about one in 50,000 babies and can cause life-threatening liver disease, infections, and cataracts if not diagnosed soon after birth.
Through screening, affected babies will be detected and treated early to prevent these symptoms.
Treatment consists of restricting dietary galactose, including replacing dairy milk with lactose-free formulas.
The State Government also expanded the newborn bloodspot screening in 2024 and 2023, investing more than $1 million to add testing for spinal muscular atrophy, severe combined immunodeficiency, and congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
In 2024, more than 75,000 Victorian newborns were screened.
Newborn bloodspot screening began in Victoria in 1966. One in 1000 are found to have a rare but serious condition, such as congenital hypothyroidism and cystic fibrosis. More information on the program is available at betterhealth.vic.gov.au.
CHILDREN’S HEALTH
Pelvic pain plan
STUDENTS in Years 5 to 10 will learn more about pelvic pain and menstrual health at school from this year.
Sexual Health Victoria will deliver the inclusive, age-appropriate, evidencebased, and curriculum-aligned education program in-person to build menstrual health awareness among young people.
It will reach 400 government schools by 2027.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said the program would help to “destigmatise and remove the shame women and girls have long been taught to feel about their bodies”.
An Australian study found 21 percent of young people aged between 15 and 19 experienced severe pelvic pain during their periods.
The education sessions will help students develop the skills and confidence to recognise when and how to seek help and support.
The sessions will also cover endometriosis and other conditions that can cause pelvic pain – many of which are only diagnosed after significant delays.
“We are ensuring more young Victorians are informed so they can seek help before their pain impacts their health and not have to suffer in silence,” Education Minister Ben Carroll said.
The program also includes resources and development sessions for school staff, to build knowledge and confidence to support students with pelvic pain, including referring to support services.
These sessions will also increase staff capability to deliver menstrual health education to students.
Orthodontic Treatment for children and adults utilising the latest technologies including SureSmile, Invisalign, lingual and clear appliances.
We offer flexible, interest free payment plans to make orthodontics accessible to everyone.
Strict hygiene and physical distancing policies in place.
Autumn’s the perfect time for swimming
AS the days get shorter and the weather cools down, many families start packing away their swim gear.
But did you know that Autumn is one of the best times for children to continue swimming lessons?
The Jump! Pakenham team believes that healthy bodies start with swimming, and here’s why keeping your child in the water this season is so important.
Boost immunity and stay active Regular exercise helps strengthen the immune system and swimming is one of the best full-body workouts for kids.
Unlike other outdoor activities affected by the colder months, the indoor, heated pool at Jump! ensures your child stays active in a warm and comfortable environment, no matter the weather outside.
Maintain progress and confidence
Taking a break from swimming can lead to skill regression, making it harder for kids to regain their confidence in the water.
Consistency is key to developing strong swimming skills and water safety awareness, both of which are vital as we head towards the next summer season.
Support physical and mental wellbeing
Swimming not only strengthens muscles but also improves coordination, flexibility, and lung capacity.
Plus, the calming effect of water has been shown to reduce stress and support mental wellbeing, making it a great way for kids to stay happy and healthy throughout the school year.
Keep swimming this autumn!
Jump! Pakenham provides small, friendly classes in a warm and supportive environment, helping kids develop lifelong swimming skills in a fun and engaging way.
Don’t let the colder months slow your child’s progress—keep them swimming strong this autumn!
For more information or to book a lesson, call 5941 6555 or email pakenham@jumpswimschools.com.au. Jump! Pakenham is at 6/99 Bald Hill Road, Pakenham.
ACTIVE KIDS
Getting kids hooked on fishing
MORE than 70 lakes across Victoria are stocked with rainbow trout, ready for families to enjoy the great outdoors.
The State Government released 35,000 rainbow trout into lakes across the state in September last year.
“We know parents are always looking for fun, low-cost activities that get kids outside and into nature – so we’re providing great fishing opportunities for families,” Outdoor Recreation Minister
Steve Dimopoulos said.
Many of the freshly-stocked lakes have fishing platforms, walking tracks, barbecues, and playgrounds, ready for a fun and easy day out for the whole family.
Families can join the fun at lakes across Melbourne and in regional areas. Rainbow trout are the perfect catch for beginners because they can easily be caught using widely available bait.
Crafty fidget toy fun
STEPHANIE Martinez starred in the first season of Making It on Network 10, where she discovered and ignited her passion for crafting.
Now she’s exploring the endless possibilities of crafting and turning everyday materials into something extraordinary - and she’s sharing exciting craft projects designed to inspire and spark creativity, like this paper fidget toy.
Materials
■ Assorted coloured paper/cardstock
■ Skewer
■ Straw
■ Bead Equipment
■ Scissors
■ Glue stick
■ Hot glue gun
Step 1
Cut ten strips of coloured paper and four circles from cardstock.
Step 2
Arrange the paper strips evenly around one cardstock circle and glue them in place. Then, glue another circle on top to secure them.
Step 3
Repeat the previous step with the other ends of the strips, attaching them to the remaining two circles.
Step 4
Carefully insert a wooden skewer through the centre of both circles. Use a hot glue gun to attach a bead at the top for security.
Step 5
Cut a small piece of straw and make several cuts to create tabs. Thread the straw onto the skewer and glue the tabs to the bottom circle.
Send us photos of your finished toy or tag us on Facebook or Instagram.
“These catchable size rainbow trout for kids are part of our record-breaking stocking program, which released more than 11.5 million fish, more than all other states and territories combined,” Victorian Fisheries Authority CEO Travis Dowling said.
The State Government provided Little Angler Kits to school students across Victoria, including a rod and guide to fishing with advice on how to catch a
rainbow trout, what bait to use, and more handy hints for reeling in a catch.
To view the full list of lakes and see what’s been stocked at your local fishing spot, head to vfa.vic.gov.au/holidaytrout.
More information about fishing can be found in the Victorian Recreational Fishing Guide, which is available free at most bait and tackle shops, online at vfa. vic.gov.au/fishingguide, or via the free Vic Fishing app.
Mother-daughter duo’s dream come
AT Kool Kidz Narre Warren, passionate mother-daughter team Maria Dimoulas and Janette Karavatis have turned a long-held dream into reality.
They opened the centre in February 2019, combining professional expertise with a family-centered approach.
“We are a family-run business, looking after your family,” says Janette, reflecting the heart of their mission.
Maria, with over 15 years of experience in early childhood education and a postgraduate qualification in special needs, ensures that every child receives top-tier care.
Janette has also spent over a decade in childcare, offering both practical skills and a deep understanding of children’s needs.
The centre, completely refurbished before opening, boasts seven classrooms designed for children aged from six weeks to six years old.
With spacious rooms, large outdoor areas, and a separate kitchen, it provides a safe and nurturing environment.
A standout feature is the ‘earth room’, where children enjoy lunch and engaging activities like incursions and special learning experiences.
Kool Kidz Narre Warren offers the highly regarded Kool Beginnings Curriculum, Little Sports Heroes, and cultural incursions, supported by the franchise’s high standards.
The centre is also deeply involved in the community, with initiatives like a community larder and children’s library along with charity fundraising efforts.
With a capacity for 130 children, the centre is open Monday through Friday from 6.30am to 6.30pm.
Located at 17 Cranbourne Road, Narre Warren, it provides families with a trusted space where children can learn, grow, and thrive. For more information, call 9705 1532.
Schooling ROCKS at St Clare’s
EVERY school has a motto or mission statement that outlines how each member of the community can benefit from being part of the school community.
The motto at St Clare’s Primary School in Officer is: Faith leads to courage, wisdom, and compassion.
To live out this motto, all members of the St Clare’s community are asked to follow its school-wide expectations: respect, optimism, courage, kind, and safe – ROCKS.
Students follow these in their daily actions at school by doing their job, having a go, making positive choices, seeking help when needed, modelling and practising kindness, and keeping themselves and others safe.
At St Clare’s, these expectations are modelled and explicitly taught and reinforced in an ongoing way.
Student awards are based on living out ROCKS and the school links these expectations to scriptures in the Bible.
The school hopes all members of its community will leave St Clare’s with the school-wide expectations and motto instilled in their minds as they go through life.
St Clare’s looks to nurture the holistic development of each child at the school.
For the St Clare’s family, numeracy and literacy skills are core elements of education, but so is religious education
Learn with love EDUCATION
ST Therese’s Catholic Primary School’s vision is simple: do all that you do with love.
The Cranbourne school aspires to provide a faith-filled, safe, respectful, and welcoming community where everyone thrives.
St Therese’s is an integral part of the Parish of St Agatha’s.
The school is committed to the spiritual, emotional, and academic growth of its young people and guiding them on their journey of faith and lifelong learning.
St Therese’s follows the Diocese of Sale Religious Education curriculum, ‘To Live in Christ Jesus’, which nurtures students’ spiritual growth and moral development.
The school’s commitment to providing a high-quality education is guided by the Victorian Curriculum, which informs all aspects of learning and teaching.
Dedicated teachers work within professional learning communities, engaging in collaborative planning to ensure that every student’s education journey is both personalised and effective.
Through ongoing assessment and teacher observation, the school monitors student growth, identifies individual learning needs, and tailors its planning accordingly.
To guarantee that students receive a well-rounded education, the school offers specialised weekly lessons in Japanese, visual arts, and physical education.
– developing empathy, social justice, and a strong moral compass.
The school encourages active play and healthy bodies; understanding other cultures through learning languages; and the confidence that comes with developing creativity through the performing and visual arts.
Student achievement is measured not only by academic growth but also by each child’s emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing.
Being part of a faith-filled community instils students with a sense of identity, a feeling of belonging, and, above all, a powerful sense of self-worth.
At St Clare’s, the aim is to have each child reach their potential to be a well-rounded individual within a supportive and caring learning environment.
As part of the parish of St Patrick’s in Pakenham, the school is on-site with the early learning centre and the Officer campus of St Francis Xavier College.
This provides a seamless transition from early childhood to secondary education with state-of-the-art facilities.
Each learning space has been designed by education award-winning architects to provide a rich environment conducive to relevant, meaningful learning.
Areas are spacious and well-resourced to meet the diverse needs of all learners.
These subjects are taught by staff who bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to their fields, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to explore and excel in a variety of disciplines.
The St Therese’s team warmly invite families to get in touch at any time to discuss the enrolment of their child and book a school tour.
Once an enrolment form has been submitted, the school schedules an interview with the parents/guardians and the student, conducted by the principal.
This interview is a crucial step in understanding the student’s educational needs and ensuring a smooth transition into the school community.
The school looks forward to welcoming new families to St Therese’s and embarking on a shared educational journey.
The school’s final stage of landscape and garden works was recently completed and includes a new playground and sports field.
Before your children even come to school, you, as parents, have taught them so much.
They’ve learned to listen, to ask questions, to be filled with wonder, to say thank you, to wash their hands, to pick up after themselves, and to look out for each other.
Visit www.stclaresofficer.catholic.edu. au and take a ‘virtual tour’ to get a real feel for the school.
School tours are also available. Call 5940 6777 to book a time.
Parents looking to enrol their child for 2026 should contact St Clare’s now, as it is now accepting enrolments for next year.
For all enquires or to receive enrolment documentation, call 5940 6777 or email enrolments@stclaresofficer.catholic. edu.au.
Principal: Felicity Broughton
EDUCATION
Encouraging kids to be kind
DOLLY’S Dream is asking parents and children to think about being kind.
The national anti-bullying organisation is dedicated to changing the culture of bullying by providing support, programs, and resources for families, schools, and communities.
Clinical psychologist Dr Charlotte Keating, a Dolly’s Dream advisory board member, said a recent report found one in six students had been made fun of by peers.
“It’s critical to have conversations with children and young people about what bullying is, and the steps they can take to get help,” Dr Keating said.
Bullying is behaviour which causes harm and is done deliberately and repeatedly.
Bullying can be:
• physical - hitting, shoving, tripping, or kicking;
• verbal - insults, threats, or nasty teasing;
• social - spreading ugly rumours or telling people not to be friends with someone; or
• cyber - spreading nasty gossip about someone online or posting embarrassing
pictures without their permission.
If your child says they’re being bullied, it’s important to stay calm and let them know they’ve done the right thing by telling you.
Ask them for the full story and explain that bullying is never okay and that it’s normal to feel upset.
If the bullying is taking place at school, reach out to meet and discuss the situation.
If the bullying is happening online, capture screenshots of abusive messages, comments, or posts, and save any relevant emails or direct messages. Make a note of the dates, times, and details.
Report to the social media platform and file a report to Australia’s independent regulator for online safety, the Australian eSafety Commissioner, at esafety.gov.au.
Dolly’s Dream recommends parents teach their kids to recognise when they need support and help them make a list of trusted adults they could talk to. Speak to qualified counsellors via the free Dolly’s Dream Support Line 24 hours via 0488 881 033 or dollysdream.org.au.
Empowering Curious Minds
A sanctuary for development
FIRST believes that all children are unique and valuable members of our society.
Every child is a capable learner, active in their own discovery and journey to foster and enhance their education and development.
FiRST educators are nurturing, dedicated, and experienced. They create environments for every child that promote and encourage a love of learning, sense of security, wellbeing, and diversity.
Educators at FiRST Early Learning thrive on the empowerment of children and early education. They create a safe haven for every child.
The team takes pride and has a respectful understanding that families entrust educators with their children on a daily basis.
It is with this acknowledgement that the FiRST team provides a home away from home and nurturing environment that fulfills every child’s safety, security, and wellbeing.
FiRST’s early learning centres across Melbourne, including in Pakenham, are carefully designed, created, and inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach and philosophy.
This sits alongside the vision and core values developed by its managing directors, educators, children, and families to deliver an all-inclusive sanctuary for children aged six weeks to five years.
Book a tour online at firstearlylearning.vic.edu.au.
At FiRST Early Learning, we empower children to take pride in their own education by involving them in the decision-making for their environment and learning. How do we do that? We explore our community together. We grow gardens together. We cook together. We explore beach and bush kinder together. We learn to swim together
Pakenham 5922 2040
| Hastings 5979 2831 | Frankston South 9783 3390 Narre Warren North 9123 4452 |Endeavour Hills 9700 1922 info@firstearlylearning.vic.edu.au
Step out in style this autumn FASHION
FIND the latest autumn styles to keep your kids looking cool and feeling warm at Billy Lidz.
The Billy Lidz team has been doing the hard work for shoppers since 2009, selecting the best high-quality designer baby and kids wear from Australia, Europe, and America.
Shop your local baby and kids store for all your baby needs, from change
mats to Charlie Crane Rockers, clothing, and nappy bags from local Australian brands like Illoura and Ziggy Lou, plus international brands like Moonie bears, Silly Silas tights, and the ever-popular Crywolf, Quincy Mae, Rylee and Cru, and Banwood bikes, scooters, and trikes.
Visit the boutique at 6 Blackburne Square, Berwick, or check out the range at www.lovemybillylidz.com.au.
FASHION
FASHION
BORN TO PERFORM
Ready, set, move at Cathy-Lea Studios
CATHY-LEA Studios is excited to introduce Ready Set Move classes in 2025.
Ready Set Move is the initial class in the award-winning Ready Set Dance preschool performing arts program.
This program introduces children from walking age to the basics of music, movement, and dance with a parent or adult helper in class.
This can also be a good starting class for older children who need a little extra reassurance or assistance from a parent or adult helper.
Once ready to participate independently, children
can move into Ready Set Dance or Ready Set Ballet.
Ready Set Dance is a combo class of jazz, tap, hip hop, singing, and music.
Ready Set Ballet is a magical introduction to ballet and creative movement.
Both classes are suitable for children aged two to five years old.
These classes develop musicality, establish fundamental dance skills, and promote social skills – and are a whole lot of fun!
Cathy-Lea Studios has delivered Ready Set Dance since 2019. This award-winning preschool program operates in more than 260 dance schools across Australia.
The studio’s dedicated team of specialist preschool teachers are trained in child safety and child development, ensuring a nurturing and engaging environment for young dancers, building their confidence, co-ordination, and creativity.
In 2025, Cathy-Lea is also re-introducing Acro
Tots, which is a preschool tumbling class focused on building strength, flexibility, and coordination and helping to develop gross motor skills such as jumping, hopping, and rolling.
Cathy-Lea Studios also offers more than 100 other classes per week for children of school age and beyond, in many styles of dance, music, and drama.
The studio invites you to visit www. cathy-lea.com for more information, to enrol, or to register for a free trial class.
The team looks forward to welcoming you into the Cathy-Lea family and creating magical moments and wonderful memories together.
Forging a lasting legacy BORN TO PERFORM
DANCE Legacy is a dance studio based in Pakenham offering expert tuition by experienced teachers for students aged 18 months to adult.
It offers classes for not only the serious dancer but also those who purely want enjoyment and recreation.
The team at Dance Legacy prides itself on having an experienced faculty that promises to provide excellent
training coupled with fun, fitness, and endless laughter.
Dance Legacy offers a wide variety of classes in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip hop, acro, and stretch/conditioning.
Studio owners and teachers Miss Danielle and Miss Loren have a combined 35-plus years of dance teaching experience.
Over the years they have not only produced award-winning choreography, but have fostered a love of dance in hundreds of students and celebrated many achievements, no matter how big or small.
Dance Legacy is moving into its fifth year in 2025, has already grown to more than 200 students, and is growing every week.
They have welcomed many new faces through the door and seen students skip and wing for the first time, and achieve personal goals.
The faculty has lots of exciting opportunities planned for the students in 2025, including the Moomba Parade in March, a trip to Queensland where students will get an opportunity to perform in the Dreamworld Parade, and two wholeschool performances where every student gets their time to shine on the stage and perform for their friends and family.
Students will also prepare for their Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) ballet examinations and Australian Teachers of Dancing (ATOD) tap and jazz examinations, as well as taking their company students to represent Dance Legacy at local performances and competitions.
They have a 100 percent success rate in their examinations and have seen multiple students achieve top marks 100 percent (100/100) Honours with Distinction.
But what Miss Loren and Miss Danielle love to see the most and are the proudest of is students gaining or re-discovering a love and true enjoyment of dance.
Everybody who walks through the doors of Dance Legacy mentions the awesome energy and vibe that the studio exudes and always walks out of class with a smile on their face.
The school owns three purpose-built studio spaces for more than 60 different classes throughout each week.
Dance Legacy promises to provide an inclusive and safe environment to help develop the person as well as the dancer.
The team pledges to nurture and further a dance legacy for every student who dances through the studio door.
Enrolments for season 2025 are open! Love to dance? So does the Dance Legacy team.
Call 0422 774 665 or email admin@ dancelegacy.com.au to book a free trial.
Choir gives kids a place to belong
SOMETIMES…WE just want to feel grounded; to find a place to thrive and belong.
The Melbourne Youth Chorale (MYC) team believes that every child deserves the gift of music regardless of background or ability, which is why it runs the Flying Free Choir for children with additional needs.
Every child is an individual, progressing at their own pace, guided gently, with the goal of eventually joining the mainstream choirs.
‘Sophie’ (not her real name) didn’t care about music at all before she joined.
She couldn’t concentrate in everyday life, struggled to use words, and worried all the time.
Other children were difficult and unpredictable, always noisy and confusing.
It wasn’t easy for her parents, either, to watch their beautiful daughter trapped, stuck, and scared.
Then they found the Flying Free Choir.
It took patience and persistence but, bit by bit, building blocks were created and put in place. The therapists were patient, remembering her name and her parents’ names from the very first time they came.
They encouraged her to dance and sing and play games and, through it all, musical knowledge trickled in.
She even developed the courage to perform at concerts.
Along with the other children in the choir, she learned, and one day she realised she belonged.
Through the nurture and guidance of registered therapists, MYC’s Flying Free Choir is a place where children with additional needs can grow, thrive, and find a place to belong.
Email flyingfree@mychorale.au or call 1800 65 88 62 to get involved.
Date Night Date Night
Splash’s gets adults swimming
THE demand for adult swimming programs in Australia has never been greater.
The 2024 National Drowning Report by Royal Life Saving Australia revealed that 92 adults aged 65 and older drowned last year, accounting for 28 percent of all drownings - the highest number recorded.
This underscores the importance of targeted adult swim programs to enhance water safety and confidence.
Recognising this need, Splash’s is launching an adult swimming program in April to bridge the gap and offer a
structured, goal-oriented approach to adult swim education.
Swimming is a skill that, once learned, stays with you for life.
But for adults who didn’t learn as kids or have taken a long break from the pool, starting again can feel intimidating.
The good news? It’s never too late to learn, and you can do it at your own pace while enjoying the process.
With Splash’s core values of care, collaboration, and commitment, the school creates a nurturing environment where all swimmers feel supported to excel.
Learn
“At Splash’s, we believe that swimming is a life skill and that every adult deserves this opportunity,” operations director Daina Bowne says.
“Our commitment to adult swim education goes beyond lessons - we are building confidence, safety, and community in and around the water.”
To set you up for success, Splash’s recruits nationally-accredited teachers who understand how adults learn, both cognitively and physically.
Unlike children’s swim lessons, adult instruction focuses more on logical progression and personal goals.
The school offers a structured tier system designed to accommodate all skill levels, from beginners to advanced swimmers.
Splash’s offers more than just swimming lessons; it provides a dedicated team committed to guiding you on your journey toward lifelong confidence in the water.
Want to learn more? Visit splashs.com.au to find out more and book your free trial lesson today.
Go gives kids a start in sport
READY Steady Go Kids is Australia’s premier multi-sport program catering to toddlers and young children aged 1.5 to 6
years, offering a comprehensive approach to physical and emotional development.
Founded on the expertise of paediatric physiotherapists and occupational therapists, the program aims to enhance gross and fine motor skills, instill a love for sports, and prepare children for school.
With a curriculum designed to introduce 10 different sports, Ready Steady Go Kids provides children with a diverse range of skills and knowledge.
This variety not only keeps children engaged but ensures they develop a broad foundation in sports, setting them up for a lifetime of physical activity and health.
One of the program’s key strengths is its focus on individual attention.
With class sizes ranging from 10 to 14 children and a maximum instructor-to-student ratio of one to seven, each child receives personalised instruction and support.
This not only enhances learning outcomes but also boosts confidence and self-esteem.
The program’s structure, with sports taught in two-week blocks, allows for a deep dive into each sport while maintaining children’s interest.
This rotation system not only introduces and reinforces basic concepts but minimises the risk of children losing interest in any one activity.
Ready Steady Go Kids emphasises emotional development, recognising the importance of building confidence and self-esteem in young children.
By providing a safe and supportive environment, the program helps children develop social skills, resilience, and a positive attitude toward challenges.
Join Ready Steady Go Kids for a FREE TRIAL class at one of its Berwick, Pakenham, Casey, and Narre Warren locations.
Georgina Nicolas is the franchise owner for the Pakenham, Casey, and Narre Warren Regions.
Visit readysteadygokids.com.au or email georgina@readysteadygokids.com.au for more information.
Asthma Action Plan a sport essential
ASTHMA Australia is urging parents to update their child’s Asthma Action Plan.
Just like packing a school hat, this simple step helps ensure your child’s asthma is well-managed and helps teachers, coaches, and caregivers know exactly what to do if a flare-up occurs.
“Sending your child back to school without an updated written Asthma Action Plan is just like sending them to play in the sun without a hat on,” Asthma Australia CEO Kate Miranda said.
“They are exposed.
“It’s one of those small but important steps to keep them protected—whether it’s from the sun’s rays or unexpected asthma flare-ups.”
Ms Miranda said the asthma burden on kids was significant. Four in 10 miss school each year due to the chronic disease.
Asthma affects about 386,000 children in Australia—about two per classroom.
Given the time children spend at school, managing asthma effectively is critical.
Asthma Action Plans help manage asthma and prevent exacerbations, yet only two thirds of children have one.
“Book an appointment with your child’s doctor to update their Asthma Action Plan today,” she said.
An Asthma Action Plan is a personalised guide created by your doctor to manage your child’s asthma.
It’s like an instruction manual for asthma that outlines how to handle flare-ups, monitor symptoms, and provide appropriate treatment.
Regardless of how mild your child’s asthma might seem, everyone with asthma should have one.
“The goal of the Asthma Action Plan is to prevent and control asthma symptoms,” Ms Miranda said.
“Even if you know what to do when your child’s asthma flares up, it’s invaluable to have clear, written instructions from your doctor, especially in an emergency situation.”
The plan covers four key areas: instructions for everyday asthma management; steps to take if symptoms worsen;
emergency actions if the flare-up becomes serious; and instructions for life-threatening asthma attacks.
Visit asthma.org.au to download an Asthma Action Plan template and access additional resources for managing asthma.
Meet the ‘funcle’
A CHILDREN’S picture book about a fun uncle is the latest offering from author Chris Thomas.
Designed for children aged two to six, My Uncle is a Funcle is his second children’s book after the success of Leonard The Lonely Duck in 2023.
A ‘funcle’ is ‘a source of unlimited fun, help, advice, and encouragement’ and ‘like a dad but way cooler’.
“The book is very loosely based on myself as an uncle,” Chris said.
“You get to be a kid again by joining your nieces and nephews to play with their toys, build Lego, muck about with games, and be silly.
“Funcles can be a bit mischievous while also introducing kids to your favourite books, movies, and other things, teaching them in a fun way.
“Essentially, you get to enjoy all the great parts of being around kids without the full-time responsibilities that come with being a parent.”
Chris decided to write My Uncle is a Funcle after Leonard The Lonely Duck proved popular enough to gain a second print run.
“I chose to write My Uncle is a Funcle in rhyme, based on a few other popular children’s picture books,” he said.
Do You Ship It
Beth Reekles
THIS young adult read is a fandom-centric romcom about self-confidence and the power of finding the people who just get you.
When Cerys’ best friend and secret crush Jake moves to a new college, she realises she’s running out of time to take their relationship from platonic to romantic.
She’ll do anything to get out of Jake’s friendzone, even if that means diving into the huge fantasy fandom he loves so much.
But when Jake introduces Cerys to his shiny new friend Max, who goes to all the conventions and loves a costume, she realises she’ll need to do a lot more to grab Jake’s attention than just read a few fanfics.
Can Cerys convince Jake they should become the new couple to ship? Or will he see straight through her cosplay?
Penguin $19.99
Aside from children’s books, Chris has previously written the Who spin-off novel Lethbridge-Stewart: Blue Blood, and short story Vampires of the Night, as well as One Step Forward, Two Steps Back in the collection Doctor Who: Short Trips – Defining Patterns.
He is also the author of comedy novel Journo’s Diary and SMS Mess, and plays.
Illustrations for My Uncle is a Funcle are by Terry Cooper, who brought Leonard The Lonely Duck to life.
“I was extremely happy that my publisher paired me with Terry the first time around because the pictures were even better than I imagined.
hildren’s Chris has a en the offficial Doctor ovel Letthhbriidge-SStewart: t short storry of ell as Onne Forwardd, in the collectiion o Doctoor r s – Deffining Patterns e author of noveel l and SMS Mess, and plays for Unccle is s a Funcle oper, nely Duck to life. e mely y that m my d me with the first s cause the p were n I imagineed. do thhe il i lustrations a I se childrenn’s
“I asked if he could do the illustrations again but using a pencil-shading style I had seen him use in other children’s books.
“He struck magic again and is fantastic at putting in little details and cues that are in the story.”
agic and is ing in little e details and the of is a lable for $20 (plus via cle@gmail.com
Signed copies of My Uncle is a Funcle are available for $20 (plus $4.50 postage) via myuncleisafuncle@gmail.com.
Author Chris Thomas with My Uncle is a Funcle. (Helen O’Brien)
My Big Fat Smelly
Poo
Diary
Jim Smith
FROM the best-selling creator of Barry Loser comes Jim Smith’s new full-colour graphic novel series for readers aged sevenplus.
My Big Fat Smelly Poo Diary is packed full of friendship, fun, and toilet jokes galore!
Join best friends Pedro, Olga and Ozzy—known as the Poopies—on a series of fun adventure stories and help them solve unexpected mysteries, like the case of the unflushed poos.
Scholastic UK $16.99
The Night Librarian
Christopher Lincoln
MEET siblings, Page and Turner. The New York Public Library has always been their favourite place, but lately things have become weird…things like a dragon imprint on the ceiling and a giant beanstalk!
It turns out the books are bursting with magic, and suddenly all sorts of villains are escaping from their books and threatening to destroy the whole library. Now it’s up to Page and Turner - as well as a mysterious Night Librarian and a motley crew of escaped storybook characters - to save this beloved library from destruction before it’s too late.
Scholastic Australia
$19.95
Don’t Trust Fish
Neil Sharpson
THIS is an absurdly laugh-outloud picture book about the villainy of fish.
Why, dear reader, must you NEVER EVER trust fish?
1. They spend all their time in the water where we can’t see them.
2. Some are as big as a bus— that is not okay.
3. We don’t know what they’re teaching in their ‘schools’.
4. They are likely plotting our doom.
This nature-guide-gonewrong is a hilarious, off-therails exploration of the seemingly innocent animals that live in the water.
Penguin $19.99
Harry and Gran Bake a Cake
Fiona McIntosh and Sara Acton
THIS picture book celebrates family, food, and fun and is perfect for reading aloud to children aged two to fiveespecially with grandparents. Harry and Gran are going to bake a cake. What could possibly go wrong?
A funny and charming story of a gran and her grandchild sharing the joy of baking together and embracing the hilarious mishaps that occur along the way.
It also features a cake recipe from Fiona’s own kitchen.... perfect for a day of family baking!
Puffin $19.99
Ourfaithleadstowisdomand courage. Thismottoistheenergisingsourceofall thathappensatStClare'sandisembedded intheethosoftheschool,thecurriculum weofferandtherelationshipswedevelop withinourschoolandwidercommunities. Ifyouarereadingthisasaprospective student,parent,guardianorfamily,Iinvite youtovisitusatStClare'sanddiscover thisdynamiclearningenvironmentand startthebeginningof,whatIhopewillbe, alife-longlearningpartnership.
HelenStaindlSchoolPrincipal
