Kids West Today - Winter 2022

WINTER 2022

Being OK together

with Steve Biddulph Arav helps

the world Katie’s fight

for her life

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About Us

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

boost your immune system.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stay healthy and have fun,

Kids West Today magazine is a Star News Group publication.

Kids West Today will be published quarterly prior to each of the school holidays.

Kids West Today Unit 6/1-9 Thomsons Road, Keilor Park Phone: (03) 8318 5777

Group Advertising Sales Manager

And for those of you wanting to stay

Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup. com.au

CONTENTS

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

IT’S YOUR LIFE

EDUCATION

BOOKS

You can’t do it alone

One family, three homes

Get ready, Mama!

PAGE 4

PAGE 12

PAGE 22

Prepare to hit the road

Opportunities for all

Discover new children’s books

PAGE 4

PAGE 13

PAGE 22

Katie’s fight for life

Positive growth

KIDS CALENDAR

PAGE 5

PAGE 14

What’s on this winter

Angie’s Catch-up

See it for yourself

PAGE 23

PAGES 6-7

PAGE 15

Arav helps the world

Value and vibrancy

PAGE 8

PAGE 16

Tween’s stroke of luck

See Amazing initiative

PAGE 8

PAGE 16

Published by Star News Group publication ACN 99 006 310 498. Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas. All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible.

WINTER 2022

Being OK together

with Steve Biddulph

Free craft for kids PAGE 9

Arav helps

Water safety milestone

the world

PAGE 10 Katie’s fight

Avoiding winter burns

for her life

PAGE 10 Cover Sienna Greco keeps dry under her umbrella.

Picture: Rob Carew

Organ donation boost PAGE 11 Play to while winter away PAGE 17 Diabetes and motherhood PAGE 18 Beetroot red velvet cakes PAGE 19 A chance at life PAGE20

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It’s Your Life

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

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

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

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

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

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

house and feeding everyone is getting harder. Every family feels it.

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

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

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

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

point is true. We really need connection every single day with people who have time for us, and listen to us, and don’t shame us for the pain we are in.

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

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

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

Not “who had the worst day” competitions. Just smiling at each other

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Picture: Supplied

for trailers and caravans, too.

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

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

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

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

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

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

■ Keep a first aid kit in your vehicle

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

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

Importantly, never stop learning.

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

It’s Your Life

Katie and her baby Magnus together in hospital Pictures: Supplied

Katie and her baby Magnus together in hospital

Katie’s fight for her life IT’S supposed to be the happiest time in a pregnant woman’s life, bringing a healthy newborn baby home as a mum for the first time. For Katie Potts, the elation was abruptly and painfully cut short. Fatima Halloum talks to Katie about an illness that affects an estimated 15,540 Australians a year.

day she began to sense what she experienced couldn’t just be normal new parent exhaustion.

this’ because I have to. I’ve got this brand new baby who needs his mum and I’ve got so much life to live.”

“I still kind of thought it was in my head and then three weeks after he was born, I came to stay with my parents and that’s when we went to the doctors,” she said.

Katie said she’s tried to keep positive and believes she can beat the odds.

Not many people would describe being pregnant as “really enjoyable”, but Werribee’s Katie Potts does.

Katie’s blood test results showed irregular liver function and she was rushed to hospital.

“All my blood tests and observations and everything was all perfect the whole way through,” she said.

“They thought there was an infection, for three days they were looking for infection and then they sent me for a CT and that’s when the bad news came,” she said.

“I barely had morning sickness, I was energetic, I went to the Foo Fighters a week before [my son] was born, It was the smoothest pregnancy you could possibly ask for.”

On March 14, Katie brought her son Magnus into the world and instantly became enraptured with him.

“I was in that newborn bubble, he’s everything you could dream of, just everything you want when you give birth.” Katie said.

The bubble popped a week later, when Katie began feeling unwell.

“I thought it was potentially postnatal depression just because ... I just had a baby and emotions are going everywhere and hormones and all that sort of stuff,” she said.

But as Katie grew weaker day by www.KidsWest.com.au

The bad news was a diagnosis that was both inoperable and incurable.

“I was in disbelief when they said ‘unfortunately we’ve found that you’ve got cancer’. In my head, I was kind of like ‘it’s only a little bit of cancer, like it would be operable and it’d be fine’, but then obviously, my world was turned upside down pretty quickly,” Katie said.

Katie’s stage four bowel cancer had spread to her liver and she would need to undergo 12 rounds of chemotherapy.

“I just had a baby and was ready to start the next stage of our life. It was pretty devastating,” she said.

“My initial thought was ’cry’ and then I was like, ‘alright, I’m gonna beat

“Obviously, there’s been some moments of tears but mostly just trying to stay positive because I think if your mind gives up, your body sort of follows,” she said.

“Life is just beginning really. I’ve got so much to live for, not just for Magnus but for everyone including myself.”

To give Katie and her family physical and financial respite, her friend Jess started a GoFundMe page to help raise money.

In the seven days the page has been online, Katie has received more than $35,000 in donations and support from loved ones and empathetic strangers.

“It’s so humbling, there’s been such an outpouring from my work, from my friends, from my family, people that I haven’t heard from since primary school, I’ve been lost for words really,” Katie said.

Jess has known Katie for more than 10 years and knows from when her own father was unwell how much of toll financial stress can have.

“I just thought if there’s anything that can make life easier for Katie and for Ben and especially for Magnus, that’s

something I knew that a lot of people would want to do,” Jess said.

“So many people, I’m sure have said to her, ‘if there’s anything you need’ and I just wanted to give people an avenue to help and to do something.”

Jess said although the support has been overwhelming, it wasn’t surprising.

“I knew that there would be a lot of people that wanted to be there for her but I think it’s still quite overwhelming to see where it’s gotten so far,” Jess said.

Katie says she hopes people learn from her story and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.

“I’m very diligent with my health and there were really no signs that I was unwell. That makes it really hard, because bowel screening in Australia is not until you’re 50,” Katie said.

“But I just think even if people have a little niggle, don’t question it, just go to the doctor.”

Katie encourages people to live their lives like tomorrow isn’t a given.

“Especially the last two years when we’ve been in lockdown, it’s been a hard fog to come out of but I think life is not guaranteed, and I just want people to get out there and take all those opportunities and look after themselves,” she said.

WINTER 2022 5

It’s Your Life

Salted Fish Acoustic duo

Fritzie tells of her decision to come to Australia. Pictures: Louisa Jones

I started teaching in a university which was good but realised I wanted to try something new. I got a job curating local performing arts events in a youth arts centre. This was so much fun – I met so many like-minded people and was introduced to the bustling performing arts scene in Geelong.

In 2009, I gave birth to Page and Adam started primary school. I took a break from work for about 12 months. It was quite full on especially because we didn’t have our usual network of supports. But we focussed on what we can do and we had, instead of what we can’t do and what we didn’t have.

Performing across the world

By Angie Hilton FRITZIE Punsalang and her husband Jordan moved to Australia from the Philippines with just $800 to their name and a 3 year old in tow. It was a case of sink or swim.

But their tight bond, optimistic outlook and determination saw them establish their roots firmly in Geelong and form strong bonds with the local performing arts community.

15 years down the track, they have a thriving performing arts school called Parallax and their two children Adam & Page are excelling in the professional music theatre world.

Let’s start with your journey to Australia. What brought you here and what was life like in the Philippines?

We just became tired of the politics in the Philippines. It didn’t seem like things would change so I made the decision to get out of the country.

Jordan wasn’t too keen to leave. He was a sought after choreographer and events director in the Philippines. We ran a boutique events and dance company. I did the marketing and wrote event scripts. Jordan would direct the shows, source talents and 6 WINTER 2022

choreograph dances. We loved it, especially after pulling off a show or a live event. But the lead up was always stressful and work was seasonal.

I was also working as a lecturer in a university in Manila, teaching and doing research in language and literature. I did that for about 8 years - although I did take a break for a year to work at the Senate of the Philippines while I was writing my dissertation. I finished my doctorate degree in June 2006 and in October 2006, we arrived in Australia.

I was the only one in my family who decided to move to Australia. The rest of my family (my mum, dad and siblings) moved to the US. I was a fan of a postcolonial book called ‘The Empire Writes Back’ by Australian writers Bill Ashcroft, Gareth Griffiths and Helen Tiffin. I was hoping to continue my academic career in this field.

I’ve also always admired Melbourne’s vibrant arts and culture scene. But most of all, I thought it’s better to stay on this side of the world and be one of the first to celebrate New Year’s!

When you arrived did you know anyone? How did you start to establish yourself?

We only knew one person – and that’s my mom’s older sister, my beloved Aunty Ging. She’s an absolute legend.

She had so much faith in us and in our skills. This really helped us gain confidence to take risks, which is often hard when you’re in a new environment.

We only had $800 when we arrived in Australia. This clearly isn’t enough to start a new life in a new country especially with a 3-year old in tow. But we got into action pretty quickly.

It was close to summer when we arrived so lots of places were looking for kitchen staff. Lucky Jordan studied culinary arts in the Philippines so he immediately got a job cheffing at a pub in the Bellarine.

We saved just enough money to buy our first car – a second hand red Mazda 121, it was tiny but reliable. We rented a small unit in Herne Hill with furniture and basic household items from op shops and garage sales. The only ‘new’ items we had were the fridge and washing machine which were factory seconds.

We actually still have the same fridge – it’s still working!

Tell us about the birth of your babies Adam was born 2 days early. My water broke as I was washing dishes from breakfast. I didn’t sleep well the night before because I was already experiencing some form of labour pain, but it wasn’t enough to make me go, this is it. So I was confused when my water broke.

It was a stormy day and Jordan drove through heavy rains, possibly speeding, to get us to the hospital. We got there only to be told that it may still be a while. After about 15 hours of labour and everyone around me getting impatient, Adam came to the world via C-section at 1am the following day.

Page on the other hand decided to come out the day after her due date. We had some friends over the day before so I was pretty tired when I headed to bed that night.

I started feeling labour pains a bit after midnight and could not sleep. The pain escalated and at around 3am Jordan drove me to the hospital half awake. We got there and once again were told that it may still be a while.

After more than 10 hours of active labour and people around me getting impatient, Page finally arrived at around 1pm via C-section.

Did you have any support network in Geelong to help you?

It was really the performing arts community in Geelong that became our first support network here. We were passionate about the same things and everyone was just so warm and welcoming.

You seem like such a tight family unit.

What do you put that down to?

The assurance that we will always have each other’s back, no matter what. www.KidsWest.com.au

Frozen

Tell us about Parallax Performing Arts and how it came to life?

Jordan had burnout after a hectic summer in the kitchen. He couldn’t see himself working as a chef and dreaded the thought of another summer. He wanted to dance – choreograph, teach, make dance shows.

He combed through job ads and eventually saw an ad for a funk / hip-hop teacher. He applied and got the job. Word got around and he was hired to teach in more dance schools.

In May 2007, he decided to start his own dance school – Parallax Dance Company.

He started with 1 class on a Sunday night at the old Geelong Performing Arts Centre (now Geelong Arts Centre).

There were only 2 students in his first class, but he persevered.

Each week more and more students joined so he offered more classes. We even opened a class at The Potato Shed in Drysdale.

Word about the quality of his work started spreading and he was invited to choreograph some local musical theatre shows. In 2012, he was given a Choreography Award by the Music Theatre Guild of Victoria for one of his works.

In 2014, we decided to start offering dance classes for kids, primarily because Adam and Page started showing interest in the performing arts.

We thought it would be good for them to learn with others.

In 2016, we rebranded ourselves as Parallax Performing Arts to cover dance, singing and acting.

I teach / coach most of the singing classes – private and group, preparation for auditions, shows, scholarships, exams, competitions, live music and songwriting.

Most of our current students are strong dancers, singers and actors.

They’re passionate about what they do and they always strive to take their skills to the next level.

Parallax has a proven track record of providing quality training with many of our former students now working as industry professionals here and abroad.

Your children are both highly successful. What is the secret to their success and tell us about their journeys to success.

Some kids find joy in sport or creating things with their hands, Adam and Page find joy in the performing arts.

They’re both able to express themselves more fully when they sing, dance or engage with an audience.

Adam joined The Voice Kids when he was 10 – no singing experience, he just wanted to meet Joel Madden because he also wears hats.

He then realised he liked singing and performing in front of people and would often ask me when he can perform again.

www.KidsWest.com.au

Pictures: Louisa Jones

I saw an open call for Matilda the Musical on social media and I asked if he’d like to audition seeing he was looking for an opportunity to perform in front of an audience. I showed him a video of Revolting Children to give him an idea of what the show is about. He instantly said yes. The audition process was tough and he prepared really hard for it. So he was so happy when he got the role of Eric as part of the original Melbourne cast of Matilda. He also had the opportunity to perform in Sydney and Brisbane.

After that, he did Carmen for Opera Australia at the Arts Centre, then Siddhartha the Musical where he played Young Siddhartha at the Athenaeum Theatre, and finally as Fletcher the son of Whitney Houston’s character in The Bodyguard at the Regent Theatre.

His interests have shifted a bit now.

He is more interested in choreography, directing and writing music rather than performing. He also just started law school and absolutely loves it.

Page’s love of musical theatre started when she played Tam at Footlight Productions’ Miss Saigon. She enjoyed being on stage and watching all the singing and dancing.

When she was 7, she was cast in Peter Pan at the Comedy Theatre featuring Tim Maddren and Todd McKenney. She totally loved it, especially working with an amazing cast and making friends with kids like her.

Soon after she played Young Yasodhara in Siddhartha the Musical at the Athenaeum Theatre. Both kids were in the show and it was so lovely to see them together on stage.

Most recently, Page played Young Elsa in Frozen the Musical at Her Majestys Theatre. She also had the opportunity to train and perform in Sydney before the show came to Melbourne, as well as perform at last year’s Carols by Candlelight at the Sidney Myer Bowl.

Matilda

She’s currently in Year 7 and is playing Matilda in her school’s junior production of Matilda the Musical.

What makes a great performer?

Authenticity.

They know their ‘why’. They perform to express, not to impress.

They honour their audience, the creative process and everyone behind the scenes.

They find time to sharpen their tools and give themselves time to recharge.

They radiate joy when they perform.

Were you and Jordan brought up in performing families?

Yes. Jordan comes from a family of dancers. His older cousins are accomplished professional dancers and dance makers who toured the world.

My grandfather was a violin player and wrote patriotic songs, mostly in Ilocano (regional language in northern Philippines). Both my parents play the guitar and sing (my mum is great at harmonies). All my siblings sing - my brother was a lead vocalist in a band, as well as my youngest sister (she also wrote songs).

What did you take from your own upbringing that helps you parent today?

Lead by example.

My parents practised what they preached. I saw them persevere, problem solve, learn from and laugh at mistakes, nurture relationships / friendships, and prioritise family at all times.

What would you say to anyone else who is new to the country?

Everything is hard at the start, but keep at it. Australia is a beautiful country, with beautiful people. It won’t take long for you to call it home.

Snapshot of Fritzie…

Profession: Communications and Engagement Professional by day, Singing Teacher by night (Parallax Performing Arts), Professional Musician some weekends (Salted Fish Acoustic Duo) Husband: describe in 3 words Jordan - family oriented, mentor, visionary Children: describe in 3 words Adam (18) - creative, articulate, great listener Page (13) - independent, brave, nurturing Favourite quote: “If a flower doesn’t bloom, you fix the environment in which it grows, not the flower” Alexander Den Heijer Favourite song to belt out in the shower: Anything musical theatre, 90s, Adele, Carole King, Lady Gaga… also Filipino tunes Favourite movie: Forrest Gump (but closely followed

by Pride and Prejudice) Favourite thing to do with your kids in Geelong:

What was the hardest part about migrating to Australia?

Getting used to the weather! Especially where we are – 4 seasons in a day literally.

Eat out - we love food! Watch a movie, check out some live music or local shows. Hang at our studio to sing and dance!

Also not having your usual network of supports around you.

Travel light and always be grateful.

Your secret to happiness:

WINTER 2022 7

It’s Your Life

Aarav loves watching TV shows, reading books and playing video games.

Picture: Supplied

Arav helps the world SOME people used their free time during the lockdown to learn a new hobby, nine-year-old Aarav from Wyndham Vale created an app.

Med-On-Go connects pharmacists to customers, allowing customers to order prescriptions and get them delivered directly to their homes.

It was during lockdown when Arav noticed a problem for those most vulnerable.

“If people are sick or old and they can’t get to the pharmacy and they don’t have any support to pick up their prescriptions, they can just use the app to order and get their medicines delivered,” Aarav said.

Arav began taking coding classes at BYJU’s FutureSchool during the pandemic, he said the skills he acquired will help him chase his dreams.

It took Arav eight weeks to create the

app and his favourite part of the classes is “everything“.

“My teacher’s the best part and I like coding and doing the designs,” he said.

“I’ve built something that will help the world and now I want to build something that will help kids. I want to build gaming apps,” he said.

Arav said one day, he will also build a robot that can act as an at home

teacher so kids can learn from home.

“I just want to build a robot that will help me relax,” he said.

Outside of coding, Arav loves watching TV shows, reading books and playing video games.

He hopes to one become a scientist and finally convince his mum to buy him either a Siberian husky or a golden retriever.

Kyneton tween a finalist in Stroke Awards

By Elsie Lange TWELVE-YEAR-OLD Chloe Ferguson says she feels proud of herself for being named a finalist in national Stroke Awards.

The Kyneton tween is one of three young finalists for a new award titled the Stroke Warrior Award, recognising a significant contribution of a person under 18 in recovery, stroke awareness, fundraising or advocacy.

“I made a presentation about my stroke and my dad and I raised awareness through Kyneton Football Netball Club and my dad’s work,” Chloe said.

Two years ago, Chloe, who is autistic, came down with a terrible headache and only after surgery did they discover 8 WINTER 2022

she’d had a stroke.

She was in a coma for five days after the event, which her dad George said was “life changing”.

He said he wanted people to go and look up the Stroke Foundation and educate themselves, because “it’s not just old people, it’s for young people as well”.

According to the Stroke Foundation, there are almost 450,000 people living with stroke in Australia.

“My family is very proud of me, but I haven’t told my friends yet because I want to tell them in person,” Chloe said.

She said she’s excited to be going to the award ceremony, with winners announced on Wednesday, May 4.

Chloe, 12, is a finalist for the Stroke Warrior Award.

Picture: Damjan Janevski www.KidsWest.com.au

It’s Your Life

Free craft for kids at Cragieburn Central Free kids craft mornings will begin in June at Craigieburn Central Shopping Centre.

Picture: Supplied

LET the kids get crafty whilst you sneak in some shopping!

If you have a preschooler or two, Craigieburn Central Shopping Centre will begin hosting Kids Mornings every Tuesday from 10am, starting Tuesday 12 July. There is a different activity available each week which your little one can join, completely free of charge.

Kids Mornings are aimed at the five years and under crowd. There is a

lovely little space set up right outside Big W where you can turn up (no bookings required) and your little one can get creative.

Craigieburn Central promotes these mornings on their website so you can take a look at the start of each month and see what’s planned for the next few weeks.

Craigieburn Central Shopping Centre

is situated in the heart of Craigieburn and offers a modern shopping experience, combining the best elements of both indoor and outdoor shopping.

Offering the widest variety of stores and services with over 160 stores together with Woolworths, Coles and Aldi, Kmart and Big W as well as Best & Less, TK Maxx and much more all conveniently located all on ground

level, plus over 2,600 ample parking spaces. Craigieburn Central has a number of services to assist you while shopping at the centre, offering two family rooms, general mobility services and gift card facility.

Craigieburn Central is located at 340 Craigieburn Rd, Craigieburn.

Visit craigieburncentral.com.au for further details.

AT CRAIGIEBURN CENTRAL SHOPPING CENTRE When: Every Tuesday 10am-1pm, from 12 July* Where: Craigieburn Central, opposite Big W For ages 2-5 years Visit craigieburncentral.com.au for details

Let the kids get crafty while you sneak in some shopping!

*Excludes school holidays

craigieburncentral.com.au | 340 Craigieburn Road, Craigieburn, VIC 3064 | 03 9643 0677 12537122-JC23-22

www.KidsWest.com.au

WINTER 2022 9

It’s Your Life

Swimming and water safety is an extremely valuable life skill.

Picture: Supplied

Celebrating 50 years of teaching vital water safety PAUL Sadler opened his first Swimland site in Brighton in 1972. With the prevalence of backyard pools increasing, Paul Sadler – both a passionate teacher and swimmer - saw an opportunity to help families reduce the risk of drowning by teaching vital lifesaving water safety skills to their children.

Now, 50 years later, the foundation of that idea is still as strong as it was in 1972. Paul Sadler Swimland now operates swim schools in across Australia and Vietnam, with plans to open more

sites in both Australia and South East Asia in the coming months and years.

The program at Paul Sadler Swimland is unique in its approach to teaching survival skills at every level. In lower levels, spending a minimum of 10 minutes per lesson in deep water, teaching treading water, deep water recovery (safety circle) and mobility on front and back until children have achieved two minutes unaided treading water. In higher levels building treading water skills to 30 minutes clothed as well as survival strokes and transitioning out

of the pool and into the open water.

These techniques and programs have been developed and refined over the last 50 years where the team at Paul Sadler Swimland are passionate about changing lives for the better.

With classes starting from four months old through to adults, and operating a simple to follow 13 step program, children and adults alike will not only learn to swim, but learn to survive.

With the impacts of COVID closures over the past two years – regular, formal swimming lessons were limited

and these impacts have been seen in the increased number of drowning deaths in Australia. According to the Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report 2021, drowning deaths increased by 20 percent on the previous year and tragically, deaths among children aged 0-4 years increased by nine percent compared to the 10 year average.

Learning to swim has never been more important and who better to learn from than the Survival Specialists at Paul Sadler Swimland, who have been teaching this for 50 years.

Visit www.paulsadlerswimland.com.

Keeping your little one safe from burns and scalds this winter WINTER is here, and the cold weather has definitely set in! It’s the season where a lot of us look towards hot drinks, hot food, a nice warm bath, or cosying up by an open fire to help keep warm and dry. While all of these bring a sense of comfort, they can also pose a risk of burns and scalds, particularly to those who are most vulnerable - children.

Common causes of burns and scalds The home is the most common location for childhood burn injuries, with the majority occurring in the kitchen particularly when a child is near someone cooking.

Common burn and scald hazards for children include hot drinks and food, hot water, household heaters and fires, 10 WINTER 2022

and appliances such as irons and hair straighteners. It may be surprising, however, items such as treadmills and vehicle exhausts are also common causes of burn and scald injuries.

It’s important to watch kids in the kitchen.

Prevention and treatment There are some practical things we can all do to reduce the risk of burns and scalds, including keeping hot food, drinks and appliances out of children’s reach and restricting their access to the kitchen when meals are being prepared.

If a burn does occur, it is important to remember to: ■ Remove - remove yourself from danger. Remove any clothing and jewellery from the burn area unless well stuck to the skin

Kidsafe have developed a free Burns Safety Checklist with practical tips to help you identify and reduce the risks posed by a range of common household burn and scald hazards.

■ Cool - place the burn under cool running water for twenty minutes.

Never use items like ice, oil or butter on a burn as these can make it worse

■ Cover the burn with a clean dressing ■ Seek medical attention if the burn or scald is on the face, hands, feet, genitals or buttocks, is larger than a 20-cent coin or blistered For more information about the prevention and correct first aid treatment of minor burns and scalds, please visit https://www.kidsafevic. com.au/home-safety/fire-safety-burnsand-scalds/. www.KidsWest.com.au

It’s Your Life

Organ donation on the up

By Elle Cecil RECENT statistics released by the Organ and Tissue Authority show that the number of Victorians that registered as organ and tissue donors in 2021 increased by 87 percent compared to 2020.

Almost 90,000 Victorians registered in 2021, while across Australia there were 349,947 new registrants, up from 186,656 in 2020.

Many of these registrations were conducted through Medicare’s Express Plus smartphone app, which most people had downloaded to link their COVID-19 vaccine certificates to their check-in apps.

“Victorians are some of the most generous people in the country. We know about 80 percent of Victorians support organ and tissue donation, but only 22 percent have registered on the Australian Organ Donor Register,” says DonateLife Victoria state medical director, Dr Rohit D’Costa.

“In such a challenging year for our state, it’s been heartwarming to see so

many Victorians take the time to register as organ and tissue donors - a decision that could one day save many lives.”

2021 saw 1,174 Aussies receive an organ transplant thanks to the life saving generosity of 421 deceased donors and their families, with 110 Victorian donors.

There are currently around 1,850 Australians on the transplant waiting list, while over 13,000 Australians are receiving dialysis and would benefit greatly from a kidney transplant.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) around 170,000 Australians die per year from a total population of 25.7 million. Organ donation can only occur when someone dies in hospital due to the requirement that organs need to be functioning well to be considered for donation.

Of the approximately 80,000 people that pass away in hospital, only around two percent die in a way where they can be considered for organ donation.

The resulting number is 1,250 potential organ donors, which is currently 600 less than the number of people on the

transplant waiting list.

When a person passes away in Australia, their family is always asked for consent to organ donation. While around 90 percent of families consent if their loved one was a registered donor, a total of 56 percent of families consented in 2021. This is why it is vital to tell your family that you have registered to be an organ and tissue donor, and that it is your wish to help others once you pass if you can.

“Ultimately, the decision to donate your organs and tissue will come down to your family. We know that 90 percent of families will consent to donation if you are a registered donor,” Dr D’Costa says.

Though 80 percent of Australians publicly support organ and tissue donation, only 36 percent are registered on the Australian Organ Donor Register.

Picture: iStock

register to be a donor via your driver’s license, though Victoria used to accept these registrations. If you’re unsure whether you’re registered, check online.

Though 80 percent of Australians publicly support organ and tissue donation, only 36 percent are registered on the Australian Organ Donor Register.

“This number is halved if they don’t know you wanted to be an organ and tissue donor, or you haven’t registered.

Therefore, it’s really important not only to register, but to also have the conversation with your loved ones.

Anyone in Australia aged 16 and over can register to become a donor, regardless of medical history or lifestyle.

It takes less than a minute to check your status or join the Australian Organ Donation Register.

Dr D’Costa also urges Victorians who signed up to be a donor via their driver’s license to double check their registration status.

All you need to do is grab your Medicare card and visit www. donatelife.gov.au. You can also register through the Medicare Express Plus app or by phoning 1800 777 203.

Only in South Australia can you

More than just 20/20 At Eyecare Plus Altona, we understand that vision is much more than just seeing 20/20. Our examinations assess eye function as well as eyesight and eye health.

Assessment of eye movements, eye alignment (using two eyes together) and focusing skills are crucial to understand how well our visual system is working, especially when visual demands are high.

An eye test in early childhood, before starting school and during the school years ensures that your child has strong visual skills that are needed to learn efficiently.

The ReadAlyzerTM is an eye movement analysis technology that records and understands how eyes perform when they read. It produces a complete eye tracking analysis when reading, looking at whether reading speed, eye movement accuracy, and comprehension, are inefficient or normal for age.

Visit our vision therapy website at www.visionadvantage.com.au or www.eyecareplus.com.au/altona for more information.

12535618-DL10-22

Eyecare Plus ALTONA 90 Railway St. South, Altona I 9398 1344 altona@eyecareplus.com.au

www.KidsWest.com.au

Eyecare Plus WINTER 2022 11

Copperfield College knows that every young person can learn, progress and create opportunities for themselves and others.

Picture: Supplied

Education

One family, three homes COPPERFIELD College’s mission is to empower every student to aspire and achieve, with a particular emphasis on the aspect of every student.

With a strong focus on the values of collaboration, inclusiveness and growth, Copperfield College embraces all learners into its family, knowing that every young person can learn, progress and create opportunities for themselves and others. How Copperfield does this is by investing in people to provide wraparound support for each child with home group teachers, team leaders, campus leaders, campus principals, wellbeing staff, expert

literacy, numeracy and EAL teachers, pathways staff and staff who support extracurricular activities, as well as, of course, expert classroom teachers. The school’s student survey data reflects its success, with the data being in the top quartile of the state for teacher student relations, safety, not experiencing bullying, motivation and interest and high expectations. The school community’s diversity is also a strength, with families coming from many different countries. Community liaison staff work closely with families, providing translations and information sessions in community languages. This

brings a richness and vibrancy to the college as community members live out the school’s values every day.

Copperfield College also has a two-year scholarship program for students starting Year 7. There are three areas; Academic Excellence, Performing Arts and Leadership/Community Scholarships. Students who demonstrate excellence in their field are encouraged to apply as this is a wonderful opportunity to be supported in playing to their strengths. Information is available on the school’s website.

Copperfield College’s motto is ‘one family, three homes.’ Once students

become part of the Copperfield family, they are nurtured until they realise their potential and leave the college as well rounded, caring citizens with a positive life pathway.

With three locations, Copperfield College has Years 7 to 10 campuses in Sydenham and Kings Park, and senior students have the choice of completing VCE, VET or VCAL at the Copperfield College Year 11 to 12 campus in Delahey.

For more information, visit www. copperfieldcollege.vic.edu.au or email copperfield.co@edumail.vic.gov.au.

SCHOLARSHIP SELECTION IS BY INTERVIEW - NOT EXAM. There are 2 scholarships available in each category below: Academic Excellence Scholarships are available to students with an exemplary academic record and who have demonstrated outstanding application, aptitude and achievement in all studies.

Performing Arts Scholarships are available to students who have demonstrated

2023

COPPERFIELD COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM Empowering every student to aspire and achieve

music/performing arts ability and a strong interest in performance. They will also have sound academic skills and may have participated in Contemporary Music exams or AMEB exams.

Leadership/ Community Scholarships are available to students with a solid academic record who have demonstrated leadership skills and potential in a variety of settings that include participation and commitment to school and community activities.

Additional Criteria: Applicants for all scholarship categories must also demonstrate a strong work ethic at primary level, have been supportive of fellow students and have fully participated in the life of their school.

Scholarships will be $500 each in value together with a Device (Laptop) for our year 7 recipients. In year 8, a further $500 will be awarded (conditions apply).

Successful students will receive payment of $500 which can be spent at the discretion of the student / family on school related items.

For more information contact Krystal Allison on 9361 3888 or krystal.allison@education.vic.gov.au or Tara Causer on 9365 4111 or tara.causer@education.vic.gov.au or visit our website www.copperfieldcollege.vic.gov.au *Application forms can be downloaded on our website.

2-YEAR SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE TO YR 7 STUDENTS IN: Academic Excellence Community/Leadership Performing Arts The due dates for our scholarship applications will be on the final day of Term 3 – 16th of September, 2022.

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12 WINTER 2022

www.KidsWest.com.au

Education

Many opportunities for everyone

By Elle Cecil SUNBURY Downs College is a vibrant Year 7 to 12 coeducational secondary college in Sunbury, offering a rich educational experience in an environment that encourages excellent outcomes for all students.

The college offers a wide range of programs catering for all students, with a strong emphasis on developing individual wellbeing and positive interpersonal relationships.

The curriculum provides a comprehensive teaching and learning program in core subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, Health and Physical Education, Arts, Technology and Languages (Italian).

The college also offers a range of VCE subjects, including Vocational Education and Training (VET) together with a structured and rigorous VCAL program

in Years 11 to 12 which caters for students with an interest and passion for applied learning.

Sunbury Downs College is the only secondary school in the area that offers an Accelerated Curriculum and Enrichment (ACE) program, extending students through a challenging curriculum including early commencement of VCE. The ACE program is a select entry course with enrolment from the feeder primary schools for students in Years 7 to 9.

The college offers a wide range of inclusive activities and programs which cater to all students, including debating, public speaking, maths club, drama club and choir. There are year level and specialised camps and excursions, including a bi-annual overseas Italian study tour. It also offers instrumental music and presents a highly acclaimed musical production, enabling students to excel in an environment that fosters

Natasha Federico (Middle Years Vice-Captain), Kush Tathed (Middle Years Vice-Captain), Kashif Rizvi (Middle Years Captain), Bella Jackson (Middle Years Captain) with Principal, Mr Warwick Beynon

participation, responsibility and teamwork outside the classroom.

Sunbury Downs College is proud of the work and support provided to students and the college community by its wellbeing team, learning support team and careers coordinator.

Wellbeing programs complement teaching, learning and extra-curricular programs. Learning support focuses on assisting students with additional needs while the careers coordinator provides valuable advice as students transition to university, TAFE and the workforce.

The college values of Respect, Resilience, Ambition and Community are embedded within the school’s teaching and learning practices. These core values support a culture of participation and excellence based on developing positive relationships and personal growth by all community members.

Sunbury Downs College is located at 148-174 Mitchells Lane, Sunbury. For more information or to book a tour, visit www.sunburydowns.vic.com.au or phone (03) 9744 0500.

Sunbury Downs College ‘Confidence to Achieve’ • VCE results consistently at or above state average • A safe, inclusive and secure learning environment • Supporting student’s wellbeing by understanding the needs of each child

• Recently modernised & upgraded facilities • Accelerated Curriculum & Enrichment (ACE) program • Students are known and cared for as individuals

Our work is underpinned by our College values:

Respect | Resilience | Ambition | Community A co-educational school with dedicated teachers who implement innovative ideas to stimulate learning Contact 9744 0500 or sunbury.downs.sc@education.vic.gov.au

12536716-DL23-22 www.KidsWest.com.au

148-174 Mitchells Lane, Sunbury VIC 3429

WINTER 2022 13

Education

Focusing on positive growth A MESSAGE from Eden Foster, psychologist at St Aloysius College.

St Aloysius focuses on building and maintaining a young person’s growth mindset. Pictures: Supplied

As a parent, you often go through the rollercoaster ride with your children as you see them work hard, achieve and at times, fail. You see your child study hard for their exams: staying up late, tears when they don’t understand the topic, joy when they have that ‘lightbulb moment’ and even the fear and anxiety that they will fail. It’s joyous when your child comes home pleased and delighted with their exam results, but when they return from school disappointed and deflated after a lower than anticipated grade, this can be disheartening for any parent.

So, how do you deal with these disappointing moments?

Firstly, it’s important to help your child (and yourself) put these results into perspective. Does this one exam result mean my child will not succeed in life?

Of course not! In fact, failure is more likely to help your child succeed, so long as they focus on what they have learnt in the process, what they did well and what they can improve on.

St Aloysius College psychologist Eden Foster encourages students to make mistakesand learn positive lessons from them.

Developing and maintaining a growth mindset is also crucial for dealing with disappointment.

Psychologist Carol Dweck coined the terms ‘growth mindset’ and ‘fixed mindset’ to depict how some individuals face challenges. To have a fixed mindset is to believe that our skills are predetermined and cannot be changed. To have a growth mindset is to believe that one’s abilities and qualities can be improved through effort and persistence.

A child who has a fixed mindset will have the belief that a poor grade on an exam or assessment suggests that they cannot do well in the respective subject and is more likely to give up, seeing failure as something irreversible and inevitable for them. A child with a growth mindset however, will see this same exam result as a means to improving and challenging themselves further, whilst building their resilience to deal with future setbacks as they arise.

At St Aloysius we focus on building and maintaining a young person’s growth mindset. We offer additional wellbeing support to guide students and parents through this process and help them deal with setbacks and thrive through the challenges.

Failure and mistakes are inevitable and should be a part of life, for without them do we truly succeed.

Now Enrolling for Year 7, 2024 and beyond Co-education enrolments now open We invite you to join us for a tour of St Aloysius College to discover our inspirational environment, meet our leadership team and learn more about the exciting transition to co-education from Year 7, 2023.

Book your tour today

The future belongs to the Curious www.aloysius.vic.edu.au 31 Curran Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051 P 03 9325 9200

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14 WINTER 2022

www.KidsWest.com.au

Education

See it all for yourself CAROLINE Chisholm Catholic College (CCCC) is a multi-site, co-educational secondary college in Melbourne’s inner west, dedicated to learning excellence in an engaged, faith-filled and supportive environment.

Its unique offering sees students enjoy a single-sex education in their formative years at separate all-girls and all-boys campuses in Years 7 to 9, before moving to the senior co-ed campus in Years 10 to 12. Providing a wide variety of opportunities across the academic curriculum, including VCE, VET and VCAL programs, CCCC offers a comprehensive co-curricular program, spanning sport, music, visual and performing arts, drama, technology, languages and a Faith In Action program.

95 percent of CCCC Year 12 graduates have gone onto tertiary education, and in 2021 the college DUX achieved an ATAR score of 98.4, while the Proxime

Accessit received a score of 98. Several students were successful in achieving scholarships to leading universities including Deakin University, La Trobe University and Victoria University.

While the college strives for students to achieve strong academic results, it also understands the importance of creating valuable experiences to help students find their passions and build their skills for their future. The college offers a wide range of activities through extracurricular, sport, music and co-curricular to allow students the opportunity to add value to their education at Caroline Chisholm Catholic College.

The college strives for students to achieve strong academic results, but also the importance of creating valuable experiences.

Why not see the college for yourself? Join CCCC for its open day on Sunday May 29 from 11am – 2pm. Both campuses will have student led tours and you will have the opportunity to see what this wonderful community can offer your child. Register your interest today by visiting www.cccc.vic.edu.au.

Caroline Chisholm Catholic College students enjoy single-sex education separate all-girls and all-boys campuses in Years 7 to 9, before moving to the senior co-ed campus in Years 10 to 12.

Pictures: Supplied

Year 7 2024

ENROLMENTS

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CLOSE 19 AUGUST 2022

Submit your application via www.cccc.vic.edu.au www.KidsWest.com.au

WINTER 2022 15

Education

Thomas Carr College aims to educate students in the spiritual, intellectual and physical aspects of their lives.

Picture: Supplied

Value and vibrancy right here THOMAS Carr College is a welcoming, friendly community where each person is valued and spirituality nurtured.

In the spirit of Archbishop Carr, young men and women are encouraged to strive for excellence according to their individual gifts and are challenged to pursue justice in our world. This commitment is drawn from, and inherent to the teaching and mission of Jesus Christ, with love, justice and the sanctity of each human person at the heart of the Gospel.

As first and foremost a place of learning, where quality teaching is a professional pursuit, the college aims to facilitate the provision of the best possible learning environment for its students.

The college is situated on more than 10 hectares of spacious grounds incorporating modern, state of the art facilities such as a chapel, gymnasium, performing arts centre, trade training centre, and a first-class oval. As a Catholic school, Thomas Carr College aims to educate its students with an

appreciation of the spiritual as well as the intellectual and physical aspects of their lives. It aims to work with its parents to produce young people of faith and character.

students to shine their light into the world and to be active members of a globalised world, it is important that they are able to make the most informed decisions about their future.

The college values relationships with all members of the community and encourages students to value the dignity of each person. Providing robust pathways for the variety of students that enrol at Thomas Carr College is central to the mission of the school, as it enhances the opportunities for its students in the region. It believes that for

Enrolments for Year 7 2024 are currently open, please note that a waitlist is in place for Year 7 2023.

Applications are available from the Fr Ray Administration Centre, via email at registrar@thomascarr.vic.edu.au or phone (03) 8734 2444. Applications close Friday 19 August 2022.

All children are amazing A SESAME Street Muppet with autism is helping families create new routines and build flexibility.

Sesame Workshop has expanded its Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children initiative.

New resources featuring Julia, a 4-year-old Sesame Street Muppet with autism, are designed to help families cope with change during turbulent times.

Exceptional Minds prepares young adults on the autism spectrum for careers in animation and beyond, and partnered with Sesame Workshop on a new animated video featuring Julia.

She learns how to handle her fear of the dark by drawing what she’s afraid of - helping her brother along the way.

A team of artists on the autism spectrum wrote, produced and animated the video.

16 WINTER 2022

New printables and colouring and activity sheets accompany the video, including Good Night routine cards to help children develop a healthy bedtime routine.

Sesame Workshop’s social impact senior vice president Dr Jeanette Betancourt said autistic children and their families were facing unprecedented challenges.

“And Sesame Workshop is here to help kids create healthy routines, develop self-regulation and calming strategies, and build resilience,” she said.

The Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children initiative aims to increase public awareness of autism, foster greater empathy and understanding, and support families with free resources.

New resources featuring a 4-year-old Sesame Street Muppet with autism are designed to help families cope with change during turbulent times.

It was developed in consultation with more than 250 organisations and experts within the autism community.

With one in 70 Australians diagnosed with autism, this initiative is designed to show that all children - autistic and neurotypical alike - are amazing in their own ways.

Sesame Workshop is the non-profit behind the television show that has been reaching and teaching children since 1969.

Visit www.sesameworkshop.org for more information. www.KidsWest.com.au

It’s Your Life

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

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

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

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

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

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

Obstacle courses The main thing you have to think of is How can my child move using these obstacles? Over, under, around and past. The next question is - How will they move? Jump, skip, hop, crawl and run In which direction? Forwards, backwards, in a circle or a straight line.

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

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

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

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

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

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

■ 12 months- FInger painting time.

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

Picture: Arm Lee Carlon Photography @myleecarlonphotography

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

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

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WINTER 2022 17

It’s Your Life

The juggle is real Ashley with her daughter.

By Casey Neill

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

FEARS and concerns are often front of mind during pregnancy.

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

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

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

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

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

“At the start it was actually quite nice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

“It’s such a mixed bag of emotions.”

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

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

“Being an automatic high-risk 18 WINTER 2022

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

“It was a really good safety net for me.

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

“A part of me is still really nervous.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ashley and her husband conceived within a couple of months.

breastfeeding could help with the clog.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“You have two jobs.”

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

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

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

“It’s about adjusting your expectations.

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

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

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

It’s Your Life

Beetroot Red Velvet Cupcakes

Beetroot is a superfood, according to Lucy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting kids involved in the kitchen is fun for all.

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

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

■ 1 cup almond meal

■ 1 Tbsp pure maple syrup

■ ½ cup brown rice flour

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

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

Pictures: Studio 74 Photography

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

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

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

Beetroots are an excellent source of fibre

www.KidsWest.com.au

WINTER 2022 19

It’s Your Life

Bethany Copeland.

“Each child you’re a slightly better parent, because you’ve got more experience.

“It’s going to be hard to keep up with them when I’m sleep deprived, but I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve.”

So doing the maths, the Copelands still have seven more embryos. What will become of them?

“It’s not a problem I ever thought I’d have,” Beth said.

“Should they have a chance at life?”

She said donating to science wasn’t an option at the moment.

“There’s a lot of ethics around it,” she said.

Then there’s disposal, or donation to a couple unable to conceive.

“I like researching things and trying to see both sides,” Beth said.

“America’s been doing this for longer and stuffed up more things than us.

“It’s like a warning - let’s not do it that way.

“There are people out there that were donor conceived that are pretty angry about the situation.

Bethany with Evan and Elliana.

Taking a chance at life

By Casey Neill

months after Elliana was born. So they’re 19 months apart.

THE IVF pathway to parenthood overcame the Copelands’ unexplained infertility, but created a further challenge they hadn’t expected.

“I thought ‘I’ve got the girl and boy, I should be done, yeah? That was a bit nuts for a moment there’.

Berwick couple Bethany and Stephen are expecting their third child on 7 August.

“I think the fact I was trying so hard to talk myself out of having another one was a sign.”

“Late July would be nice!” Beth laughed.

“I wanted four originally.

“I wanted to have my first at 28.”

But after four years battling unexplained infertility, they turned to IVF and conceived Elliana.

“We got 10 embryos,” Beth said.

“Technically there was nothing wrong with either of us in all the testing.

“Evan came about all by himself, 10 20 WINTER 2022

“But I couldn’t squash it.

They tried to conceive naturally.

“But I felt myself starting to get anxious again,” Beth said.

“We decided we may as well go back and do the embryo thing.”

They decided they’d try three transfers.

“If it didn’t work we were going to take it as a sign,” she said.

They were successful on their second attempt.

“I feel older this pregnancy,” Beth said.

“My body is getting sorer a lot faster than it did with the other two.

“It expanded faster. Everyone’s asking ‘when are you due, the next couple of weeks?’.

“The bump is quite big and my back’s already sore.

“If this is a good baby and I forget that, then I wouldn’t be surprised if we have another one.

“I’m going to have to upgrade to the mum wagon, I may as well fill it.

“I’ve accepted the chaos.”

She’s not as scared about going from two to three as she was about one to two.

“I’m already outnumbered, so I’m just going to be more outnumbered,” she laughed.

“A lot were lied to and found out as adults.

“Our clinic reckons they do anonymous only donations and you just have to donate to whoever’s next on the list.

“I’m totally not comfortable with that at all. I want to know about the people.

“Also, I want the option of having a more open donation.

“I don’t want to get involved with parenting. I reckon I could separate myself.

“But I do want the opportunity that if that person wants to know about their full genetic siblings that they could know them.”

The clinic will hold the frozen embryos for 10 years, so the Copelands have another four years to decide their fate.

“I’ve heard of people having them transferred at a time of the month when it’s impossible for them to stick. But what if it did?

“I’ve heard of people getting them made into jewellery.

“It’s a big issue. It’s not simple at all.” www.KidsWest.com.au

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WINTER 2022 21

Books

Turning the tables in the morning

By Casey Neill

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

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

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

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

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

“I wanted to write a sympathetic story for them.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

She said the book would also help

Author Sharon Giltrow.

children to develop empathy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Children’s books...

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

I’m not brave enough today.

Maybe next time.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Can Willa find Mimi before it’s too late?

Cop and Robber

L PLATERS

A new nailbiter from the bestselling author of Two Wolves.

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

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

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

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

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

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

$12.99 Penguin 22 WINTER 2022

www.KidsWest.com.au

Kids Calendar

What's on this Winter UNTIL 12 JUNE

25 JUNE

28 & 30 JUNE, 5 & 7 JULY

TOORAK VILLAGE SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

BANTU AFRICAN FEST

TRASH PUPPETS

Toorak Village links the arts with business to exhibit contemporary sculptural works in the shop windows and on the sidewalks of Toorak Road.

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

These free puppet making workshops run from noon to 2.30pm at The Mezz in Prahran.

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

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

5 JUNE

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

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

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

AUSTRALIAN GIRLS CHOIR OPEN DAY

4 JULY

This free event in Balwyn will run from noon to 2.30pm.

THE KAZOOS

23 JUNE - 10 JULY

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

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

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

Visit miniaturerailway.com.au for more information.

25 JUNE

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

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

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

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

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

10 JULY

Visit www.adventurepark.com.au.

25 JUNE - 10 JULY

25 JUNE

LUNA PARK

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

ASHBURTON-A-FAIR

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

5, 12, 19, 26 & 29 JUNE, 3 & 6 JULY

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

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

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

Register at ausgirlschoir.com.au.

MINIATURE RAILWAY

They’re recommended for ages 6 to 12 years.

18 JUNE

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

They empower children to get creative using clean recycled and reused materials.

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

Visit ashburtoncc.org.au for more information.

Visit lunapark.com.au for all the details.

28-30 JUNE, 1 & 2 JULY

PLAYABLE STREETS - REFLECTION This interactive installation in Prahran Square features artworks from artists of all ages, as part of the Roola Boola Children’s Arts Festival.

It runs 10am to 5pm.

WINTER CONCERT SERIES

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

15 JULY

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

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

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

WINTER 2022 23

NOTE: YEAR 7 2023 IS FULL. WAITLIST ONLY.

YEAR 7 - 2024 ENROLMENTS NOW OPEN - PLACES FILLING FAST!

Applications are available from the Fr Ray Administration Centre or by email: registrar@thomascarr. vic.edu.au or phone: (03) 8734 2444. Applications close Friday 19 August 2022. thomascarr.vic.edu.au 12532521-AV23-22

24 WINTER 2022

www.KidsWest.com.au