Coast Kids GC | 1

H e a lt H & W e l l b e i n g | a rt | g i v e aWays | M aMa r a Z Z i | e d u cat i o n | WHat ’ s o n | F o o d

KIDS GCCoastFree May 2012

A Mother of an issue

THE WorlD oF MoTHERHOoDMuMs around the globe share their stories

tIME fOR YOU tIME!invest in your faMilyby honouring its Mother

aT My MoTHEr’s KnEECelebrities’ kitChen traditions

TAX tIME tIPs& starting a business

Brand New Look!

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Coast Kids GC | 3

Keeley O’Connor is one Savvy Mama. Always ‘chief organiser’ among her friends when it came to fun, the latest activities for couples and kids, Keeley chanelled her energy and zeal for gathering information and coordinating her contacts into founding savvymama.com.au – the Gold Coast’s leading online community for news, information, resources and great suggestions for mums and families.

With a collaborative online community, weekly newsletter, satisfied advertisers and more than 2,500 members, Savvy Mama is thriving.

“I wanted to share the information I would dig up and the contacts I made with women, many of whom, like me, had moved to the Gold Coast from interstate or overseas and perhaps didn’t know what was available. Savvy Mama is the product of my seeking information for sanity and social life. I hope it’s a vibrant, interactive link between women of all ages and stages.”

A native of Vancouver, at just twenty two Keeley headed off to see the world and in the tropical

paradise of the Cayman Islands, met and became smitten with Luke, originally from South Australia.

They married in Canada in 2001, and relocated to Australia shortly thereafter, eventually settling in Burleigh and creating a cosy family with Sienna, now 7 and Addison, 4. Dylan is the latest member of the O’Connor clan and with two older sisters, this robust 3 month old is never short of cuddles.

But wind back the clock to 2010. Keeley was approached to create and co-own a traditional magazine, parlaying her online nous to a monthly publication that would deliver all the information and boost the range of content, with all the “touch and feel” that makes print perennially relevant for readers and advertisers.

Keeley and Luke are the proud parents of three little O’Connors and one dynamic and evolving magazine, now solely under their ownership in a revamped format.

A year and a half later, Coast Kids GC covers issues, entertainment, interesting news and views,

local women and their journeys, dads and their

responses to parenthood, cooking, art, travel and

health, as well as expert opinions and loads of

promotions and giveaways in 15,000 copies each

month, dropped off to 500 plus family-friendly

points from Yatala to Banora Point.

“I hope mums, dads, carers and the community

look forward to Coast Kids GC each month.

Behind the scenes, our small team works hard to

create a magazine that covers topics that connect

with mums and dads, nanas and people who work

with children and families.”

“My vision is that parents create their own library

of Coast Kids GC to keep, pass on and refer to for

years to come – something they look forward to

each month, learn from, laugh with and share their

parenting journey with!”

The story so far…

“My visIon is ThaT pARenTs crEATe ThEIr oWn library OF COast KIds Gc To keeP, pAss on And ReFER To For yEARs To coME – soMething ThEy look foRwaRD To

eaCh MonTH, lEarn FROM, lAugH wiTH And share theIr paREntinG joURneY WIth!”

Photo: juliewillisphotography.com.au

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We have a new look! Shedding our old skin letting a new one, and

new era, shine through. Hope you like it too! Let us know what

you think, we always love to hear from you!

Motherhood is no doubt the hardest yet most rewarding role

I have experienced in my life. We should really celebrate each

other and all you wonderful mums more than once a year – but

we’ll settle for one special Sunday each May for now.

It’s a time to reflect about your own childhood too and praise

your mum. Imagine how she did it all those years ago, each

generation with its own challenges.

For May, we present a mother of an issue as we celebrate

mums around the globe, local mums striving to find balance and

wellbeing in their life and so much more! Get crafty, thrifty or

just take a break and flip through all that we have compiled –

being mums ourselves (ok and a few

Dads helped out too!)

Happy Mother’s Day to all your

Mums out there, may the kids

unpack their bags without asking,

quit the squabbling and fill your

day with love! We all deserve it!

All the best x

FeaTUResMother’s Day vs Mothers’ Day 7 The true meaning of our day

Boating 13 Sample the marine lifestyle at Sanctuary Cove Boat Show

Chloe Maxwell 18 This Gold Coast model mum tells her tale in “Living with Max”

Tax Tips 19 Our financial expert shares some timely advice

GC Parks 22 Explore the green on the Gold Coast

Behaviour 24 Helping kids grow with the Behaviour Scale

Mums Around the World 38 Sharing experiences, ideals and dreams for their kids

RegularsBook Review 6

News 8

Sea Change 9

Life Skills 10

What we love, love, love 12

Keeping it Real 14

Eco Chic 15

Health & Wellbeing 16

Give-aways 20

Daddy Diaries 23

What’s On Calendar 26

Midwife Matters 27

Mamarazzi 28

Date Night 30

Food 31

Education 34

Family Health 37

All About Her… 41

All About Him… 44

Mamas that ROCK 46

Art & Creativity 48

Directory 50

From the Editor…

The team…

Street address PO Box 5366 Q Super Centre QLD 4218

Ph: 0433 808 257 l Fax: 07 5610 2035

Coast Kids GC Magazine Published by: Coast Kids GC Pty Ltd.

Editor: Keeley O’Connor l editor@coastkidsgc.com.au

Art dirEctor: Emma Mardaine l design@coastkidsgc.com.au

AdvErtising sAlEs:

Keeley O’Connor l advertising@coastkidsgc.com.au

Leanne Gibbs l leanne@coastkidsgc.com.au

All editorial and advertising content is copyright and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher.

Online… Check us out online and our latest issues www.coastkidsgc.com.au

Write to us… You can write to any of our expert contributors asking for guidance, or contact me with

feedback or story ideas at editor@coastkidsgc.com.au

Coast Kids GC | 5

jeni bOnE Features EditorJeni Bone has been writing professionally for 24 years, across newspapers, magazines, TV

and online media, covering business, lifestyle and news, as well as in PR and marketing for global brands and media for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. With hubby Carlton, she does her best to raise Alex and Sophie with

inquisitive minds, a love of learning and sense of community.

fe Taylor Health & WellbeingFe is the director of Leaps & Bounds Children’s Fitness Centre, Fe Taylor Fitness and also the

Children’s Health & Wellbeing Expo, held annually on the Gold Coast. Fe’s health and wellbeing programs are associated with the GCCC Active & Healthy Program.

www.childrensfitnesscentre.com.au www.fetaylorfitness.com

MicHEllE JacKson MidwifeMichelle is a registered midwife and nurse, and childbirth educator. Over the last 16 years,

she has worked in both private and public practice in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. She is mum to three young children.

aMArDy dHAnoYA Keeping it realA proud stay at home mother of two beautiful children, daughter Marley 2yrs and son Kaius 1yr.

Amardy teaches Zumba, a class for mums and kids locally on the Gold Coast. She has a background in media and worked in the industry for 10 years working in the magazine sector. amardy_dhanoya@yahoo.com.au

jAnE WHIttReD Arts & creativity Jane’s most rewarding role is that of a teacher. Having been artistic for as long as she can remember and now

being a Mum to 3 young children. Jane is also a qualified Graphic Designer, registered School Teacher and owner of Mrs Red’s Art room. www.mrsredsartroom.com

debbiE HOgG life skillsOne of Australia’s leading Coaches & ANZI Coaching Coach of the Year 2010 -

Debbie is co-creator of ‘Life Skills Programs’ Social & Emotional learning programs for parents, she is passionate about ‘Enriching the Lives of Children’ and is a specialist in family coaching. Debbie is a trainer, NLP Master,

author, mum to two girls and is a spirited & passionate coach who will encourage you to shine. www.lifeskillsprograms.com.au www.debbiehogg.com

TAn Curtis Behaviour specialist, counsellor & FacilitatorTan is Managing Director of Fabic - a behavioural specialist centre offering clinical services, personal

assessment, group training and public workshops. Tan is author of the highly acclaimed book ‘Challenging Change’ as well as creator of useful take-home tools and programs to support managing behaviour issues and creating positive

behavioural interventions for people of all ages. www.fabic.com.au

dr elEn apTHoMAs Family HealthDr ApThomas is a GP with over 18 years of private clinical experience. She is a graduate of the University of Adelaide

with a Bachelors in both Medicine and Surgery, along with a Diploma of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and a Fellow of the Australasian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine. www.themedicalsanctuary.com.au

anTHony sHerRaTt daddy diariesAnthony Sherratt is a full-time stay-at-home dad who juggles looking after his twin girls, lecturing at

university and contributing to a variety of websites and publications. He’s finally thankful for his insomnia.

dAna strong communication & EducationDana traded in international corporate communication positions with the likes of Motorola and IBM to launch

her own strategic copywriting business so she could have the flexibility to make her family her #1 priority. Dana believes that clear communication is vital to parenting and to business, and she makes it her business to share her skills

and experience with others. www.strongideas.com.au

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sTory TIME…

KangArOos hOP Ros Moriarty, illustrated by Balarinji

Kangaroos Hop helps children identify favourite Australian animals in the Australian landscape. The kangaroos hop, the butterflies fly, the echidnas shuffle across the land and down to the water’s edge where a sleepy crocodile lies...Shhhh! The lively illustrations and cumulative text help readers identify animals as well as verbs.

Allen & Unwin RRP $12.99.

WandA WallAby finds heR bounCE Jonathan Emmett

Wanda Wallaby has lost her bounce. Try as she might, she can’t find it. She asks all her fellow animals but no one can help. Until, that is, she meets the crocodile–whose advice has a remarkable effect on the innocent wallaby Wanda! Ages 3-6.

Bloomsbury RRP $14.99.

noOdlE loVes THE FARM, noOdlE loVes TO drIvE Marion Billet

Noodle is visiting the farm. Come along and meet all the animals. From playing with his noisy digger to peddling his tricycle, Noodle just loves things that go! Two new touch-and-feel books for babies and toddlers featuring the inquisitive and cute-as-a-button Noodle!

Nosy Crow RRP $14.99.

THE cOAT Julie Hunt, illustrated by Ron Brooks

A surprising and delicious story that will lift you off your feet and whirl you away. The Coat stood in a paddock at the end of a row of strawberries. It was buttoned up tight and stuffed full of straw and it was angry. ‘What a waste of me!’ it yelled. Then along came a man. ‘I could do with a coat like that,’ the man said. Together, swooping and swinging, they travelled to the Cafe Delitzia, and had the night of their lives. A bold and original picture book for ages 4+.

Allen & Unwin $29.99.

THE MonstEr: TrOuBleTWisters 2 Garth Nix & Sean Williams

The second, exciting instalment in the brilliant adventure series from two fantasy masters After The Evil’s assault on Portland, everything returns to relative normality ... for the moment. The twins continue to work hard to control their Gifts, and at school they make a new friend, Tara. But then the instruments in Grandma X’s antique store begin registering Evil activity, and Tara’s dad turns out to be the suspicious big-city property developer working on the house next door. Matters turn from bad to worse when the twins discover that Grandma’s cats are fighting an important battle of their own. Can the twins solve the mystery of the living Ward before it’s too late? Irresistible fantasy adventure for ages 9-12.

Allen & Unwin RRP $9.99

WHAT yOUR MoTHER sHOuld’ve tOld YOU anD noboDy elsE WIllNatalie Reilly

An entertaining and informative guide to the things you should know by now It’s an ironic fact that in this time of non-stop communication, the potential for social blunders has never been quite so ripe. Here is a collection of answers for 21st century dilemmas; advice on modern manners; solutions for old fashioned conundrums and everything in between, from the seemingly minor to the top ten lessons of life. It’s all those things your mother should have taught you, but you probably didn’t listen to at the time.

Fairfax Books, RRP $17.99

Book review

Coast Kids GC | 7

There is constant debate about the spelling of Mother’s Day – even greeting card publishers can’t seem to agree about the apostrophe, with Mother’s Day, Mothers’ Day and Mothers Day gracing covers of cards honouring mums. It’s interesting to have a look at the history of Mother’s Day; then you can be armed with the knowledge to decide for yourself what you will celebrate on May 13th this year.

THE MoTHER oF MoTHEr’s dAyThe Mother of Mother’s Day was an American woman, Anna Jarvis, who never married or had children of her own. Anna’s mother was well known for her community charity work with mothers and for organising groups of women to ‘mother’ wounded soldiers on both sides of the American Civil War between 1861 and 1865. Legend has it that when Anna was 12, she overheard her mother tell her Sunday School class of her wish for a special day to commemorate mothers for their contribution to all fields of life. When Anna’s mother passed away - on the second Sunday of May, 1905 - Anna began her campaign to create Mother’s Day.

THE first MoTHEr’s dAyIn 1908, the first Mother’s Day ceremonies were held: one in Anna’s hometown of Grafton, West Virginia — at a church now renamed the ‘International Mother’s Day Shrine’ — and one in Philadelphia, where Anna lived at the time.

Mother’s Day was observed in a growing number of cities across the United States until, in 1914, the US President officially proclaimed the second Sunday in May as an annual holiday to celebrate mothers. Anna’s campaign had succeeded!

Today, Australia and most other countries in the world, set aside an annual day to honour mothers; although, in different places it is observed in different ways and on various days of the year.

MoTHEr’s dAy – deFinitely nOt MoTHERs’ dAyAlthough Anna’s mother wished for a day to celebrate the contribution of ALL mothers, Anna was forceful in her own vision of Mother’s Day being a day to spend time with your own mum and to thank her for all that she does. It was to be a day to celebrate the best mother in your life – your OWN mother.

Anna railed against what quickly became a commercial and political opportunity and a day to recognise all mothers rather than for individual families to honour their own mums:

retailers promoted Mother’s Day cards, portraits, chocolates, candies and anything else they could exploit to boost their revenue; politicians organised large Mother’s Day celebrations to increase their popularity; charities used the holiday to raise awareness and funds. Anna was so adamant about what Mother’s Day was meant to be that she trademarked the term ‘Mother’s Day’ – with the apostrophe specifically placed to make the term singular possessive indicating it was a day to honour exclusively your own mum, NOT mothers in general.

She incorporated herself as ‘Mother’s Day International Association’ and went on, year after year, to fight for her ‘possessive’ and personal – not commercial or political – vision of Mother’s Day. he organised boycotts, threatened lawsuits, and even attacked charities that tried to use Mother’s Day to raise funds to help mothers.

The best way to honour your mother on Mother’s Day, according to Anna, is to write her a letter thanking her for all she does. “A printed card means nothing except that you are too lazy to write to the woman who has done more for you than anyone in the world,” Anna said. “And candy! You take a box to Mother — and then eat most of it yourself. A pretty sentiment.”

hOw WIll YOU CeleBrAtE?Will you think of Anna’s mother, and perhaps make a donation in your Mother’s name to an organisation that supports mothers in all endeavours? Will you support Anna’s vision and have a quiet day honouring your own mum – a day with no shopping, no donations, no greeting cards, just maybe a letter? Will you celebrate Mothers’ Day or Mother’s Day?

Even if you’ve already bought

the gifts, given the flowers and served the breakfast in bed, why not take Anna’s advice and write your mum a letter anyway? Heartfelt words last longer than flowers and will likely be cherished more than any gift money can buy.

MoTHEr’s dAy or MoTHERs’ dAy

Dear mum,You are special to me every day, not just on

Mother’s Day. But today is your day to be

honoured, so it’s a good day for me to tell you

how much you mean to me.

The most important thing you ever

taught me was…

You inspire me by…

I appreciate…

You have shown me courage and strength by…

I wish I had listened to you about…

You’ve always shown me your love by…

My favourite memory of you is…

I want to thank you for…

Thank you, mum, for simply being YOU – my

mum – the best mum in the world!

Happy Mother’s Day!

Love…

A MOTHeR’s DAy lETtER - sUGgestiOnsFirst of all, if words aren’t your thing, don’t worry. Your mum will know that, and she’ll value your effort even more! Here are some ideas for what to include in your letter:

Words: Dana StrongWhich will you celebrate the second Sunday in May?

Coast Kids GC

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News…

rICh KIDs dO beTtEr?According to analysis of the national literacy and numeracy (NAPLAN) test results, the country’s top 100 primary and secondary schools correlate to children from so-called affluent suburbs.

Director of the Centre for Research on Education Systems at Melbourne University, Richard Teese, says the analysis highlights a geographical concentration of advantage.

“It’s not an even playing field in which talent can blossom from whatever location – it’s people excelling through social advantage,” he told the media lastweek.

He said schools in poorer postcodes were under-resourced and found it difficult to attract experienced and specialised teachers.

“We are now at a point where there are no new commonwealth funds available to correct the funding imbalance that has operated for decades. Our potential is not being harvested. Public schools educate two-thirds of our kids; they are our nurseries and we are starving them.

“The large reserves of talent in less well educated families are being denied the support needed to be turned into the large band of high achievers representing all backgrounds that Australia should have,” Professor Teese said.

Genetic lInK in auTisMThree new studies have uncovered extremely rare genetic mutations that shed new light on the potential environmental and biological roots of autism, a brain disorder that causes social and developmental delays in children, beginning at a young age.

Scientists say the DNA glitches found in a small subset of autistic children were not inherited by them, but occurred spontaneously at their conception, increasing their risk for developing the disorder.

The researchers have found further evidence that the risk increases with the age of the parents, particularly in fathers over age 35.

The latest report comes in three papers published online Wednesday in the journal Nature, provides a measure of both, giving scientists something they have not had: a clear strategy for building an understanding of the disease’s biological basis.

“These studies aren’t so much a breakthrough, because we knew this was coming,” said Jonathan Sebat, a professor of psychiatry and cellular and molecular medicine at the University of California, San Diego, who was not a part of the research teams. “But I’d say it’s a turning point. We now have a reliable way forward, and I think it’s fair to expect that we will find 20, 30, maybe more such mutations in the next year or two.”

Help Me apPBruce and Denise Morcombe have launched an app to ensure children can immediately get help if they’re in danger

Denise and Bruce Morcombe, parents of murdered Sunshine Coast teenager Daniel, have put their efforts and energy behind the “Help Me” iPhone app that may help children in situations of duress or distress.

The app is available from iTunes for 99 cents and features a panic button which, when activated, alerts two nominated contacts via SMS of the user’s exact location with GPS co-ordinates.

At its launch in April, Bruce Morcombe described the app as a “human EPIRB”, Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon.

The app also includes a function for recording suspicious activity, helpful phone numbers, child safety tips and educational resources.

The Daniel Morcombe Foundation has committed significant resources to developing the iPhone application.

“It was a logical progression for us to offer a solution through mobile phone technology, particularly when we factor in the lessons learned from Daniel’s disappearance,” he said.

“We searched high and low for something in the market and couldn’t find anything to suit, so we decided to take a lead role in developing an app ourselves. It is a very real and practical tool for not only children but also for adults across a whole range of situations.”

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one in FoUR gOld COast residenTs Is Born oversEas. herE, Bree EVe shArEs HeR fAMIly’s sTOrY oF MiGraTion, ThE chAllengEs oF maKing a neW home on thE OthER siDE OF thE worlD, and thE TransFoRMaTions shE Is hoping THEiR sEA cHanGe Will bRinG.

RIgHt, i nEEd to MAKE sOME friEnds.The last time I had to make new friends was four years ago when we bought a house in the suburbs. I fell pregnant and in the process of attending antenatal classes I had 14 terrific girlfriends overnight. Easy! They were all first time mums and living nearby.

But, this is no help to me now. I am not an expert on antenatal classes but I am pretty sure you cannot just pop in to make friends, without being pregnant or having a newborn.

The other way I tend to make friends is through work. But I am not currently working and was only planning on doing a bit of freelance around Woody’s kindy. But that hasn’t happened for me just yet.

So my two most successful friend making techniques do not apply in my current situation.

Rest assured I am not sitting at home with the TV as my only friend. Woody and I are out every day at the Rockpools, bike riding, at the library, at playgrounds etc. There are so many mums at these places you can go along every week and not even see the same mum twice, let alone establish friendships.

It’s daunting to think some mums have been friends since antenatal classes. How do you join a group that has shared so much? And some local mums are probably school friends. I think, ‘why would they even want to make new friends?’ Old friends are the best. Even if I did get chatting to someone it’s hard to ask for someone’s phone number

or offer my own. I feel so self conscious.

But I am out there giving it a shot. I love groups and classes, I even love meetings! But without a full time job in our household, it’s difficult to justify spending money on Zumba, aqua aerobics or surfing lessons. So I take up one thing only and it’s swimming squad. I love swimming but in terms of making friends it’s not ideal; I can’t speak underwater and I can’t hear in a swimming cap!

And then there’s kindy, with different drop off/pick up times I don’t even see another mum. I am reliably informed that Birthday parties are the places for mum’s to make friends. So I am keeping my eyes peeled for an invite. None yet. But I’m planning a big party for Woody just so I can meet some people!

But the best tool for making friends is under my nose. At a parents’ evening I got chatting to another migrant Mum, told her about this column and she was happy to be interviewed. Last week we met for coffee, the first time I have done this since being on the Coast. In the UK, I practically made a career of meeting for coffee. And yesterday, our little boys met for a play date. And this mum put me in touch with her friend for an interview and a coffee.

So, I’m on my way to making friends. It’s amazing how friends make a place feel more like home!

Bree

Sea Change Sea Change I now call Australia Home!Penny COlEMan, MUM To MIchAEl, 4 FrOM wellington To sOuThpOrT vIa sydnEY9 YEars, telEMarKEtEr

What have been some of the challenges you have faced migrating to the Gold Coast?It really took me a long time to settle in when I first got here. I did miss the city. I thought I would get a job but that side of things is very hard. Also it is not easy to meet people. On the Coast people are travelling a lot, people are coming and going, there is no base. The biggest challenge is fitting in and feeling like an outsider.

How do you go about building that base?The first thing would be income, sadly enough, because without that you’ve got nothing. Then, I think it is about making your own home where you feel comfortable, homely and secure. And then, family and friends. It is good to have people around you.

So, how do you build that base of family and friends?The last couple of years I have not had any money and I have not been going out so I have not met anyone. It is only recently that I have had the money to go out. Without money you can still go out, the beach, the mountains, and the parks etc, but they are not necessarily the places you meet people. You need money to make friends and then once you have made the friends you can do free stuff together.

So, where are the places you do make friends?I have met people through Michael’s kindy. We used to just see each other quickly at pick up time and have quick chats. And then I think you get to chat more to other mums at the kid’s parties. I made two good friends at Michael’s Birthday party. By having a quick chat we found out that we were three single mums and our three boys were like the three Musketeers at kindy. So we have some similarities. And then the boys wanted to have a play so I would invite them around here and we just got to know each other more and more. It turned into our social time as well.

What have been the highlights of raising you son on the Gold Coast?It is a nice place to be. We have the hinterland, the beautiful beaches, we really have everything. You can go to the mountains which are only half an hour away. We go to Springbrook for a barbecue breakfast and go for walks in the bush. We had theme park tickets for a year a couple of years ago and that was fantastic and really good for a four year old. And Michael loves the water, so beach, beach, beach! After four years, we still do all of these things.

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Taking a little ‘me time’ to do something that we enjoy just for the sheer pleasure of it can bring on that old guilty feeling. Often we have a false expectation of needing to be busy, busy, busy and doing, doing instead of just being.

As mums we will generously put ourselves last or at the bottom of the pile. The shopping’s done, meals planned, housework up to scratch, washing up-to-date, children delivered to school obligations (band practice, running, choir), sports or extracurricular activities tackled; if we are lucky we could squeeze a catch-up coffee or wine with a girlfriend. Constant busy-ness can make us feel tired, unappreciated and sometimes poor me thoughts start to play in our heads. Unconsciously we believe we are doing our families a favour operating from this space; sadly this type of role modelling doesn’t assist us or our children; it passes on to all concerned that a mum’s job is to put themselves after everyone else.

Of course when we act out this belief the feelings of disappointment, disempowerment, sadness and inability race around within us because we as the nurturers are not being nurtured, the old description for this behaviour is ‘burnt chop syndrome’.

Being a mum is often referenced as one of the most difficult and demanding jobs ever done; with this comes the challenge in getting that balance right in both nurturing of others and of ‘My- self’ time. Being a constant support with loved ones, where does that ‘Me time’ go? Some typical answers are, “oh, it doesn’t matter about me, I’ll get some time shortly” or “don’t be silly,

“our job in THis lifETIME is noT to sHapE OuRsElvEs InTo soME IdEAl we iMAGInE We oUGHt to bE, bUT to fInd out Who we AlreaDY aRE And becoME it” sTevEn PressfIelD.

gIvinG yoURselF A liTTlE lOvinG aTtEntion is a bEAuTifUl Way To AfFiRM youR selF-worth!

Dare to have a little bit of

Mother’s Day -

Every dAy!Words: Debbie Hogg

Life skills

Coast Kids GC | 11

I’ll run the kids to dancing /football/band, I can do the shopping in between” or “no love, you go surfing/play golf/cricket every weekend, I’ll look after the kids”, do any of these sound familiar? Over time, the less we give to ourselves the less we support ourselves, the lower our self-worth goes. This type of thinking and behaviour causes us to feel uncomfortable and can quickly shift to ‘dis-ease’ within us.

With Mother’s Day here this month it’s a perfect opportunity to allow ourselves to be pampered, loved, supported and taken care of by our children and family. It’s a day where the dinner can be cooked for us, the housework shared around, we can choose to have a Sunday morning sleep in, and someone else can do the organising of ‘everything’. Wow, what will this feel like? Luxurious, fabulous, amazing, unbelievable or just really nice are some descriptions I can hear you screaming. What if you could have some of this everyday instead of just once a year on the nation’s commercial day for MUM.

It is possible to make a change. Firstly it starts with a thought, next simply make a decision. What if you were able to have more ‘me time’ what difference would it make to you?

EVeRy daY nurTURInG TIps fOr ‘My-tIME’.~ Personal time out 5-10 minutes daily is a GIFT.

~ Physical exercise, walk 15-20 minutes initially, join a gym PCYC’s have a great program for a small weekly amount. Oxygenating your body’s cells is vital for preventing illness and assists your immune system in fighting dis- ease.

~ Nurture mind, body and soul; deep breathing will calm the busy mind.

~ Go to a movie, choose the time, date and lock it in.

~ Meet a friend/s for lunch or have a girl’s night out.

~ Join a walking club, running club or even a quilting club something you love, hang out with likeminded people. The energy is uplifting; you are guaranteed to feel great in doing something for yourself.

~ Alternate weekends with husband/partner and do something regular just for you.

~ Meditate, start with a short timeframe, sitting in meditation is a loving way to acknowledge to yourself and others that you believe you deserve to receive, as well as give.

~ Organise a day spa treatment alone or with girlfriends.

~ Do a date night; rekindle that ‘loving feeling’.

PraCtise DaIlY aFFiRMAtions; ~ “I AM deserving of love”

~ “I appreciate all that I am”

~ “I honour and respect myself. Choose something special for you”

Honouring yourself includes developing an attitude of unconditional self-love and self-worth and a belief that you wholeheartedly deserve all the greatness and good that the Universe wishes to bless you with!

Know you are beautiful, begin today! The choices we make today shape our tomorrows.

Happy Mother’s day to every amazing mum, from the team at Life Skills Programs!

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Gold Coast Tennis Open Day

Breakpoint Tennis - Carrara Beenleigh Tennis Club - Beenleigh

Emerald Lakes Tennis Club - CarraraGold Coast Albert Junior Tennis Club - Burleigh Waters

Gold Coast Seniors Tennis Club – Mermaid WatersLabrador Tennis Club - Southport

Mudgeeraba Tennis Club – MudgeerabaPro-One Tennis Academy - Runaway Bay

Pimpama Island Sports Assoc. (Woongoolba Tennis Club) - Woongoolba

Sonic Tennis - Palm BeachTennis Gold Coast (Queens Park) - Southport

Tennis Blue – Hope Island

For more details visit www.tennis.com.au/goldcoast or email Tanya, tcorbett@tennis.com.au

From Bump to Baby, toddler to teenager, Family portraits. $200 in studio or location (includes 20 high res images on disc)

For an extra $100 you can purchase all images from session.Affordable print packages available on request.

www.kirstysandersonphotography.com.au0412 425 306

Kirsty SandersonPhotography

What we…

KaMbaMbooKambamboo boutique range of organic cotton/hemp baby blankets, kids pillows and bibs are made in Byron Bay. The bibs and blankets are backed with hemp terry towelling which is wonderfully soft and naturally absorbent. The pillows are filled with eco-friendly fibres made from 100% recycled PET plastic bottles. Available at www.kambamboo.com.

sElK’baGThese cute sleeping bag suits are based on the clothing of polar tribes in Chile’s extreme climate.Designed to fit the wearer, it’s super comfortable and extremely practical. It even has durable nylon soles so you can walk around the camp site in it. You can eat, drink or even go fishing in it!The selk’bag comes in Classic, Lite and Kids, which have additional safety features and special pockets. A joey style pouch pocket can keep little hands warm. Oversize zip pulls make for easy use and nametags help children to label their selk’bag. Available at www.selkbag.com.au

esKalFrom Eskal comes a range of quality allergen friendly foods, including gluten free, dairy free, nut free and reduced sugar products. There’s around 70 products including Eskal FreeNut Butter is a nutritious spread made from ground roasted sunflower seeds that is 100% safe for those with nut allergies. More at www.trialiafoods.com.au/eskal

rEnovaAll the rage in Europe, black loo rolls from Renova. Bathroom tissue has been tested under dermatological and gynaecological control. It’s colourfast for its intended use and a definite talking point! $25.00 for 3 roll gift pack. Available www.boatstyle.com.au

12 | Coast Kids GC

Coast Kids GC | 13

This year’s Sanctuary Cove Boat Show has amped

up the activities and attractions, with heaps for all

age groups and inclinations, May 24-27. For just

$22 per adult (online), kids under 17 FREE, you

can treat your family to a day out at Australia’s

favourite boat show, enjoying the spectacular

program of entertainment and all the magnificent

boats and accessories for the boating lifestyle.

Whether you’re in to fishing, kayaks, jet skiing

or have a yearning for sailing the seven seas,

there’s something for every budget, every taste

and every skill level. The incredible JetLev R200

will be launched in Australia at the boat show,

shooting 30ft (9m) in to the air with just a hose

linking it to the water! There will be fashion shows,

cooking demonstrations, great seafood, world-

class entertainment and hands-on activities, and

an extraordinary showcase of the world’s most

innovative marine products, sailing and power

boats and all kinds of gadgets. For the ladies, there

are two sensational “High Tea on the High Seas”

cruises, Saturday 26 and Sunday 27, onboard

the fabulously decked out MV The Lady, taking

in the beautiful Coomera River while enjoying

champagne, canapés and pampering treatments. For just $75 per person (including show entry), you can leave the boys at the boat show and step aboard for the social event of the show.

FREE parking at Movie World, with regular air-conditioned luxury coaches to Sanctuary Cove. Buy your tickets online and check out all the great attractions, entertainment program, promotions and new products at www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

Words: Jeni Bone

It’s not news if you’re a boatie, but now scientific research supports the hypothesis that those who love the boating lifestyle are healthier, happier than the community at large and live to a ripe old age because of their aquatic pastimes.

Research in the US has found that people who enjoy boating have a greater degree of satisfaction in key areas of their lives. Not only are their lungs full of fresh sea air, their physical fitness and overall health were rated higher than their non-boating counterparts.

They also rated higher in leadership abilities, the performance of their children in school, family togetherness and even their love lives! Nothing like the lilt and lapping of water on the hull as the sun dips over the horizon for putting you in the mood, apparently.

The survey of 1,100 people by the Impulse Research Corporation for the US National Marine Manufacturers Association found that boaters “are healthier and happier than their non-boating counterparts”.

Naturally, boat owners tend to be more involved in water-related activities, but they are also more likely to participate in other outdoor activities as camping, skiing, tennis and golf. More boat

owners (48 percent) than non-owners (39 percent)

regularly travel.

“Spending time with your family and friends aboard

a boat is one of life’s most pleasurable pursuits and

now there’s data that indicates boating’s benefits

stay with you long after the experience is over,”

said Pepper Schwartz, PhD, sociologist and

relationship expert who contributed to the study.

“Anyone looking for a new way to enrich their time

together with family and friends will find boating is

an outstanding choice.”

Beyond the water, boaties also live an extremely

social and well-connected lifestyle, enjoying being

“out and about” on both water and land a lot more

than the rest of the population.

Maybe it’s the post-GFC reflection on life and what

really matters – boating seems to be the tonic

that has inspired people to evaluate their lives and

seek work-life balance and leisure time spent with

friends and family.

And you don’t have to splash out on the largest yacht in the marina to enjoy boating. There are various ways to dip a toe in, including Try Crewing days at the local yacht club or sailing club, sailing schools which offer classes that cost as little as $20 per lesson and include the boat and all your safety and wet weather gear. Then there are RIBs (rigid inflatables) and tinnies which are great entry level boats and most of them come with accessories like bimini tops for sun protection, barbeques and even toilets in the larger trailerable vessels.

You can charter a boat for a weekend or week, sampling the joys of cruising further afield, or jump right in to ownership of a larger boat with a group through boat sharing, membership of a club or syndication.

Through fractional ownership, you share the expense of owning a boat, dividing up the year between owners so that everybody gets a share of weekends, weeks and holidays. Many companies provide “step on, step off” service, which means they refuel, prepare the linen and catering before you board and then after you’re finished – so you only enjoy the good parts of owning a boat.

See www.marineqld.com.au for all the opportunities.

Live longer – love the boating lifestyle

WinFor your cHAnce to Win one oF 5 DouBle PAsses to tHe 2012 sAnctuAry cove internAtionAl BoAt sHoW, visit www.coastkidsgc.com.au and head to the competition section. Winners will be notified by email and tickets can be collected or posted out by 20 May.

sAnCtuAry COVe intERnAtionAl BOAt sHoW – Full-on fAMilY Fun!

spenDing time wiTH your Family And FRiEnds aboaRd a BoAt is onE OF liFE’s Most

plEasuRAble PursuiTs

14 | Coast Kids GC

MAke MuM A cardNothing beats a handmade card. Your Mum will

love all the love and effort you put into it.

BreaKfAsT in bEd Make Mum her favourite breakfast. Whether it’s

bacon and eggs, pancakes or even just a piece

of toast with a cuppa, take it into her with her

favourite magazine. You could make it a family

affair by throwing a picnic blanket on the bed and

eating all together.

MAKE a voUCHeR bOoKA great idea both kids and husbands can make.

Make a little book filled with vouchers for things

such as vacuuming, washing dishes, doing

laundry, big hugs, alone time, anything you think

your Mum would love.

MAKE a MEMory BoOKWe mothers love photos so grab some special

photos and stick them in a photo album or

scrapbook and write down why they mean so

much to you. Decorate your album or scrapbook

with drawings, paintings or stickers.

BAke COoKiEsBake cookies in the shape of hearts and wrap

them in cellophane. Give them to your Mum while

they’re still nice and warm. Homemade biscuits

taste the best!

tAke MuM ouTYou can take your Mum to the beach and let her

relax and enjoy the sunshine. Take her to the park

for a picnic lunch. Take her to her favourite spots

if she has one and take some photos altogether.

MAKE a MEMory jarUse an old jar, decorate it and pop in little pieces

of paper and write why you love your Mum so

much. You could also write down your favourite

memories with her. She can read through them

whenever she likes.

wriTE FOr MuMWrite your Mum a letter to show her how much

she means to you. You could also write a poem or

even a song. Write cute messages on post it notes

and stick them all around the house before she

wakes up. That is sure to surprise her.

MAKE a MovieUse you handy cam and make a little movie

about your Mum. This will make her smile and is

something she can watch for years to come.

MAKE a phoTO slideshowGet all your favourite photos together and create

a slideshow on your computer. Give your Mum a

cuppa and watch her enjoy all the memories.

MAke MuM A stoRYboOKWe Mums read to our kids all the time. A great

gift would be to have a story book made just for

your Mum. You can make up the story, draw all the

pictures and read it to her.

gIVe MuM A massagEIf you really want to help your Mum relax give her

a massage with some nice oils.

RequEsT MuM’s FaVouRiTe sonGCall your local radio station and request your

Mum’s favourite song, add a personal message

to let everyone know how much you love her to

make it extra special.

Keeping it real

gIFTs FroM THe

yOu Don’t nEed to spEnd a lot OF MoneY TO sPoIl hEr anD maKE HeR dAy speCIal.

Becoming a mother is the most rewarding experience in the world. From the moment you find out you’re expecting to seeing your baby for the first time, you never thought you could love someone so deeply. For children and husbands, Mother’s day is a wonderful way of honouring your Mum and wife and showing her how much you love her and how much she means to you. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to spoil her and make her day special.

Here are some creative and inexpensive ways you can show Mum you love her. Dads may need to help younger children.

heart Words: Armardy Dhanoya

Coast Kids GC | 15

Mrs PetERsOn’s POtTERy lAce DIsH setThese delectable little dishes are vintage inspired and hand crafted by Mrs Peterson’s Pottery in the Blue Mountains. What is not to adore about these? The perfect touch to your table decorations, these dishes will be the talk of the table at your next dinner party (and might make a great gift for a special mum?). Set of 2 dishes, 8 cm in diameter, beautifully packaged for gifts. $35

Handmade jewellery & handbags Organic & botanical skincare Books, DVDs & recycled stationery  Neoflam pots & pans  Wooden toys & balance bikes BPA-free baby products Great range of eco gifts  Free gift wrapping 

Eco Vida @ 33 James Street Burleigh Heads Ph: 07 5535 2001 SHOP ONLINE: www.ecovida.com.au

Mum’s Day special: 10% off in store by mentioning this ad. And 10% off online with code: 4mum.

All of the above products can be found in store at eco vida, shop 2, 33 James street Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2001 or shop online at www.ecovida.com.au.

eco chicEnviRonMEnTAlly consCIous pRoducTs FoR YOuR fAMilY leMOn CAnaRY vInTAGe sOy CAndlEs

These ecosoya, naturally scented candles in old school preserve jars are the epitome of vintage. Each jar, with the old metal clip and thick glass, is truly a collector’s item. Not to mention they contain the most gorgeous smelling, naturally scented, hand crafted soya candles! 500g. $58

AsK Alice nOtEBoOksWe adore these ‘Ask Alice’ notebooks with their quirky designs and ultra eco ethos (made from 100% recycled paper and printed in vegetable ink). New in store at Eco Vida and super funky (‘Ask Alice’ has even been commissioned by Angus and Julia Stone to do a stationery line for them), these little items are a must have. $20

Eco chic

16 | Coast Kids GC

Health & Wellbeing

MAy is a Month TO CElebRATe MoTHeRhoOd! A time to reflect on our contribution to our families and, to society. As mothers we take on a great responsibility for our child/chidren’s happiness and health and sometimes, at the expense of our own.Putting our babies first comes naturally, (no matter what age they are), but what about us Mums? How can we juggle the responsibility of motherhood, partner/wife, employee or employer – or business owner, and still ensure that we have time for our own self-preservation and find that “balance”?

nAMes & Ages oF Your Children: Daughter Cece is 1 year old and I’m expecting number two at the end of October.

ProfEssIon/wOrK/BusinEss: I’m a remedial/sports therapist and own WhiteStone Massage in Burleigh.www.whitestonemassage.com.au

hOW Many hours a WEEK do YOu worK? At the moment I am only working around 10 to 15 hours a week in the clinic and about five from home on horrible paper work.

As a busY MuM, hoW do YOu AlloCATe TiMe foR yoUR pERsOnal HealTH & Fitness, and WhAT pRioriTy doEs THis TAKE? I believe that you have to take care of yourself before you can successfully look after others and so I rank myself quite high on the priority list. As my partner is now working away, it sometimes becomes a bit of a juggling act but where there is a will there is a way.

wHaT spOrt/exERcisE givEs yoU THE MOsT sAtisfAcTion and wHy? I like to be on the move and outside so running, riding, walking and swimming at the beach would have to be my top four. I do though like hitting the gym every once in a while for a good weight session.

iF You WERE givEn a full dAy “OFF” fRom WoRk, household dUTIes and paREntinG rEspOnsibIlities, WhaT Would you do FoR YOuRsElf? A full day? My goodness! What would that be like? For this question I would really like to say I would do something profound, but in truth I would probably rent a hotel room with a huge bed and great view, order room service and watch movies by myself. Ah, now that would be a perfect day!

nAMes & Ages oF Your Children: Havana who is 5 going on 10. My son Jonah is 4.My other big kid is Jonathan (40 going on 15).

ProfEssIon/wOrK/BusinEss: My title at work is Senior Active Parks Officer for GCCC. I manage the A&H program and look after activation of all our beautiful parks on the Gold Coast. I would say I work about 32 hours a week in the office, followed by some time at home when kids are in bed and on weekends. I do find though that kids are a great distraction from work stress as even if I have had a full on day, walking in the door they immediately pull you out of work mode and into mum mode. It’s is all just a balancing act really, but an active and healthy mum makes for active and healthy kids and at the end of the day I think that is all we all want - happy and healthy kids.

As a busY MuM, hoW do YOu AlloCATe TiMe foR yoUR pERsOnal HealTH & Fitness, and WhAT pRioriTy doEs THis TAKE? My own personal health and wellbeing has always been important but is even more so with 2 young kids. It’s important that I look after myself so that I am around for my kids but also so that I have the energy and patience to be a good mum. In terms of allocating time, if I don’t get up early in the morning and get my run or exercise in then it gets harder to try and find the time in the day. Early mornings are a great time to exercise as there is nothing better to get the mind and body working for the day ahead. I also have a great bunch of friends who I train with who are all busy mums too so

it allows me to catch up with them while also getting my endorphin hit.

wHaT spOrt/exERcisE givEs yoU THE MOsT sAtisfAcTion and wHy? Being a marathon runner in a previous life (before children) running would have to be my number one choice of exercise. All you need is a pair if running shoes and you can get a really good session in just 45 mins. I am also enjoying doing some strength and body weight training a couple times a week to keep me strong. I have found a great little training place called zuu (thezuu.com.au) which I am really enjoying. When I have time for me I love getting out on my sup or mal as well but that doesn’t happen as much as I would like.

iF You WERE givEn a full dAy “OFF” fRom WoRk, household dUTIes and paREntinG rEspOnsibIlities, WhaT Would you do FoR YOuRsElf? A full day! I don’t think I would know what to do for a whole day. Starting off would be a nice leisurely run with friends in a place I normally can’t get to, followed by a sup or surf with my partner. Then a yummy brekkie and coffee out somewhere in which we can sit and relax without having to rush off or clean up after anyone. Then maybe a browse through James St at Burleigh or some cool shops that are not kid friendly, with a nanna nap in the arvo followed by maybe a session at zuu or a walk with the dog. To finish off a nice dinner with maybe a movie. Nothing fancy just a cruisy day

Corry Alm

Sam Hughes

Words: Fe taylor

This month I had the opportunity to interview four GC Mums and ask them some pertinent questions about that balancing act. This is what they had to say:

Coast Kids GC | 17

Health & Wellbeing

nAMes & Ages oF Your Children: I have two beautiful daughters. Rio is 5 and Lola has just turned 1.

ProfEssIon/wOrK/BusinEss: My husband, Matt and I own Eco Vida. We sell natural and eco-friendly giftwares and homewares. Matt runs our store on James Street in Burleigh Heads and I take care of the back end of the store and look after our online shop. www.ecovida.com.au

hOW Many hours a WEEK do YOu worK?: It varies, but on average I spend about 20 hours a week looking after our website and sourcing new products for both our online shop and James St shop.

As a busY MuM, hoW do YOu AlloCATe TiMe foR yoUR pERsOnal HealTH & fiTness, And WhaT pRiOritY doEs this TAKE? I make sure that I make time for my health and fitness and I do make it a

priority; otherwise I am a pretty grumpy girl and no good to anyone! We try to eat as healthy and as organic as possible at home and I schedule my exercise into my diary every week so that there are no excuses.

wHaT spOrt/exERcisE givEs yoU THE MOsT sAtisfAcTion and wHy? I would have to say that surfing gives me the most satisfaction. I just love it. Riding the waves is very soothing to me and I enjoy being out in the ocean. I always feel refreshed and recharged afterwards. It’s like my meditation.

iF You WERE givEn a full dAy “OFF” fRom WoRk, household dUTIes and paREntinG rEspOnsibIlities, WhaT Would you do FoR YOuRsElf? I would probably try to hijack my husband or a friend to spend the day with me, and head down to Byron Bay for the day. We could have a yummy coffee and hang out at the beach, surf, swim and read a book. Heaven!

names & agEs oF CHIlDRen: Tahli, 11, Abbey, 9, Evie, 5

prOFEssIon/WORK/businEss: I work as a Prep Teacher Aide, Marymount Primary School

hOW Many hours a WEEK do YOu worK? 25 hours per week, five days.

As a busY MuM, hoW do YOu AlloCATe TiMe foR yoUR pERsOnal HealTH & fiTnEss , and WhAT pRioriTy doEs THis TAKE? I’ve always been a strong believer in the saying “If Mum is happy, the whole family is happy”, therefore I will make every effort to get to my training sessions and go for a run a few times a week so we can all be happy!

wHaT spOrt/exERcisE givEs yoU THE MOsT sAtisfAcTion and wHy? It’s hard to choose between running and group training sessions.

I attend a few of the Fe Taylor Fitness Active & Healthy classes each week. Both are the perfect balance for me as running allows me to feel free, have time alone, be outdoors and clear my mind and group training sessions provides me with variety, (I get bored easily). Group Fitness also builds my strength and provides me with a great cardio workout plus it allows me to catch up with friends – added bonus.

iF You WERE givEn a full dAy “OFF” fRom WoRk, household dUTIes and paREntinG rEspOnsibIlities, WhaT Would you do FoR YOuRsElf? Wow! I would definitely organize a trip to a Byron Day Spa with a few of my closest girlfriends. We would be pampered from head to toe for hours, followed by lounging by the pool, reading, chatting and maybe indulging in a cocktail or two.

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sumMARy: I know I can relate to each of our featured Mums – and it is wonderful to read that they all identify their own personal time for exercise and wellbeing as a priority – do you? And as for a whole day off: I think Byron Bay, movies, day spas, breakie out, shopping, nana naps and the odd cocktail with the girls all sound very tempting! My day of bliss would definitely not involve any gadgets! – no laptop, iPad or phone for 24 hours……aahhhhhh. Happy Mother’s Day!

18 | Coast Kids GC

lIFe lessons One of our favourite Gold Coast celebrity mums, the perennially stylish Chloe Maxwell is perhaps best known to many as the Jeans West girl. A successful model and TV presenter, she is married to rugby legend Mat Rogers. Life was complete when together they welcomed their son, Maxwell Danger, and more recently a daughter, Phoenix.

When Max was diagnosed with autism spectral disorder, they founded the charity 4 ASD Kids to help underprivileged families fund their children’s medical costs. Chloe is also step-mum to Rogers’ two children, Jack and Skyla.

Now, Chloe has documented her family’s struggle to make sense of Max’s condition in a heart-wrenching yet inspiring book, Living with Max.

“It feels terrible for your son to want to hurt you so bad that you bleed, and to look into his beautiful eyes and see nothing but hatred. What mother could deal with that? Not me, that’s for sure. I loved my son, but I was no longer sure whether I was the right mother for this job.”

From the outside, Chloe Maxwell seemed to be living the dream: discovered at 16 as a model, she went on to become a household name as a TV personality. Then she met rugby star Mat Rogers and a great romance was born.

Inside, though, Chloe was fighting her own demons: her parents’ separation in her teens had led to a deep sense of insecurity. Then Mat’s father, football legend Steve Rogers, died after taking prescription drugs and alcohol. Chloe treated her wounds with an “alcohol Band-aid” until the birth of Mat and Chloe′s son, Max, heralded a new beginning.

But it soon became clear that Max was not like other boys: the few words he learned faded away, his rages transcended any regular toddler tantrums, and he seemed to exist in a bubble, cut off from everyone. Honest and moving, Living with Max is the story of how Chloe and her family learned to face the challenges of autism and release the little boy locked within.

Harper Collins, RRP $27.99 available from 1 May.

Win We have 4 copies of Living with Max to give away. To enter, register your details online at www.coastkidsgc.com.au before 20 May 2012.

Coast Kids GC | 19

Our office is located on Level 1 in the Big B Arcade, 50 James Street, Burleigh Heads.

Tax, Planning & Strategy Business Growth & ProfitCertified Practising Accountant (CPA) specialises in providing personal professional tax and financial management solutions for individuals and businesses.

We can assist in a broad range of accounting and tax matters from simple tax preparation, to business structure set-up and tax planning, business coaching and audits. Other services include proactive management reporting, budgets, cash flows and assistance with loans and insurance.

If you would like to make an appointment (initial consultations are free) please call. (07) 5607 0695

Starting a new business involves some uncertainty and taking a few risks. So while it is important to remain positive, ignoring the risks is not a good idea – you need to know how to handle them if they occur. This means having a plan, not just a creative plan, but a business plan. What’s in it ? As a minimum it will cover:

• Yourproducts/servicespricingandmarket• HowyouaregoingtoMarketyourbusiness• Howyougoingtooperateyourbusinessand• YourbusinessBudgetand/orCashflow.Planning costs nothing but can save you thousands so before you do anything, get advice and plan. This will help you make the first of no doubt a million decisions. Did I mention cash flow? Without it you are out of business, this also means thinking about debt collection.

Business Structure is an initial consideration. Operating as a sole trader is an option for start-ups however the right time to establish a structure is usually at the beginning especially before you sign the contract to purchase a business. The four most common business structures are sole trader, partnership, company and trust.

You should register your business name before you spend money on signage, printed material or anything else displaying your business name.

After registering your business name, you should apply for an Australian business number (ABN) in the name of the entity (trust, company etc) carrying on the business, and also record the registered business name as the trading name.

Next step is registering for GST (compulsory once turnover exceeds threshold) or registering as an employer.

But before I fill the entire page let me say a little about one of the most common questions asked by someone working from home and that is: “can i claim my mortgage as a deduction working from home?” The answer is not totally straight forward but here is a general overview.

• Ahome-basedbusinessisonethatfallsinoneof two categories.

• Abusiness runat home (such as a hairdresser) where all the work is done there, or

• A business run from home, where most of the work is conducted on another premises. i.e Tradesman.

Business owners that are conducting their business at home may be entitled to claim a portion of their rates, house insurance and mortgage interest for income tax purposes. The amount of the deductions is generally based upon the percentage of the home area that is used for business purposes it also will depend on a number of specific circumstances. Passing this test however may result in capital gains tax on part of any capital gain that is made when the house is sold.

On the other business owners that are conducting their business from home hand may only be entitled to claiming running expenses such as electricity, cooling, telephone and cleaning costs.

It is not black and white and the rules must be

applied to specific circumstances, however under

either scenario businesses owners may also claim

depreciation for the decline in value of depreciating

assets, for items such as computers, photocopiers,

furnishings (carpets and blinds etc.) and tools.

May/June is also a time you should consider

Tax planning, which involves forecasting taxable

incomes and includes preparing tax minimising

strategies that need to be adopted before June

30, this may include business asset purchases but

it also includes review of your structure, looking at

super and potentially prepaying expenses among

others.

You may be able to negatively gear an investment

portfolio, prepay the interest on the loan and take

advantage of the franking credits, or if you own a

negatively geared rental property and are intending

to take some time off work to have children the rental

property losses may well be wasted in the year you

do not work so it might be worth considering paying

12 months (no more or the whole deduction is

delayed) interest in advance and anything else you

can in the year you are earning income.

More at www.gibsonandassociates.com.au

Ron Gibson has over 12 years’ experience in the

finance and accounting industry and practises

in all areas of tax and accounting including, tax

planning, strategy, structure, and compliance for

Companies, Trusts, Partnerships and Self-Managed

Superannuation Funds.

TAX tIPs sO yoU’rE sTaRting A business and worKinG FRoM hOME?

These are just general examples and may not apply to your situation, please get advice before acting on any of the information contained in this article.

Finance

Words: ron Gibson

20 | Coast Kids GC

abc dvds ABC has the widest range of educational and entertaining kids’ DVDs, music, books, talking books, merchandise and more. Thanks to our friends at ABC We have five of each of these new titles to give away. you can check out the range and shop online at http://shop.abc.net.au/

BANANAS IN PYJAMAS THE FLUFFY BUNNY - NEW ON DVD 5 APRIL 2012 B1, B2 and everyone in Cuddlestown love to care for animals of all shapes and sizes. In these episodes the Bananas look after the Teddies’ pet bird, try to rescue Skid the Dolphin from shallow water, and search high and low to find Morgan’s precious toy bunny. rrP: $19.95.

FIREMAN SAM - DANGER BY THE DOUBLENEW ON DVD 5 APRIL 2012 Fireman Sam has double the challenge in his latest exciting adventure! James and Sarah are always competing with each other, but when a tree in the forest is hit by lightning, will they stop in time to realise the dangers in front of them? Fortunately for the troublesome twosome, the Hero Next Door is on hand, with a little help from Radar, to sniff out the twins and guide them back to safety. rrP: $14.95.

li’tYa dREaMY dREaMTiME haiRCaREHarnessing the bounty of the Australian bush and magic of the Dreamtime, Li’Tya products are a gorgeous spa addition to your bathtime, as well as being the ideal gift for visitors from overseas.We have one Li’Tya hair pack to give away containing Quandong & Camellia Hair Cleanser: You will enjoy the serenity scalp health that come from this Gentle sulphate free shampoo containing plant extracts like quandong kernel, Chamomile Extract, Mandarin essential oil, Rose Geranium essential oil and Green Tea Leaf Extract. The Quandong & Ylang Ylang Hair Treatment is a potent, pure and natural hair treatment for all hair types, using the unique properties of the quandong, (Australian Native Peach) to promote deep conditioning whilst restoring health and vitality to the scalp and hair. More at www.litya.com.

For your chance to win please register online www.coastkidsgc.com.au/competitions-giveaways. Click on the prize you would like to win and complete the entry form online to enter. Only winners will be notified and entries close on 20 May 2012. Good luck!

tRaCY andERson METhod coMplETE collECTion The perfect gift for Mother’s Day! She’s trainer to stars like Shakira, Courteney Cox and Gwyneth Paltrow, and with the release of the Tracy Anderson Method Complete Collection, 2 lucky readers can have all 8 of her popular fitness DVDs at home. The overall mission of Tracy’s method is to strengthen the smaller muscle groups so that these muscles can pull in the larger muscles which results in a lean figure that isn’t. Tracy’s method has transformed the bodies of countless women to their tiniest, strongest points, and she has helped her clients achieve toned and defined bodies with smooth and firm skin. In order to share her technique with people around the world, Tracy has released fitness DVDs that feature many of her signature fitness moves. Included in this boxset: Dance Cardio Workout, Mat Workout, Post Pregnancy Workout, Perfect Design Series I, Perfect Design Series II, Perfect Design Series III, Beginner Dance Cardio, and Dance Cardio II. the tracy Anderson Method complete collection (Duke Home entertainment) is now available at Kmart and JB Hi Fi for the bargain price of $99.95.

gIvEAWAys gAloRE

Giveaways

Coast Kids GC | 21

Win ThE ulTiMaTE MoThER’s daY paMpER paCKaGE aT paRlouR p To ThE valuE of $1500• ClinicalskinAssessmentwithBeauVisage

• 2xskintreatments

• Ultimateeyeandbrowtreatment

• SpaManicureandpedicurewithShellac

• 1hourMassage

• HairstylingandJaneIredalemakeupsession

• Internationalbodywrap

Parlour P Parlour P Skin Rejuvenation Clinic and Make-up Lounge at Bundall, features five unique treatment rooms that have dedicated purposes, including the latest Beau Visage skin assessment technology and equipment, the brow and lash lounge, Permanent Make-up room, Electrolysis permanent hair removal, Acoustic Wave Therapy for the treatment of cellulite, International Body Wraps, Cosmetic Medicine suite, complete Hair and Make-up Lounge and a massage clinic specialising in musculoskeletal therapies. Parlour P offers a range of Beauty services with a diverse team of medically minded and qualified specialists all working together under one roof to provide outcome based solutions for their clients. Parlour P is centrally located at 95 Ashmore Road, Bundall. For more information on Parlour P visit www.parlourp.com.au or Ph. 5538 1844. like us on Facebook/ Parlour P

Giveaways

22 | Coast Kids GC

Parks

For more information on these great events, or to find out more about the fabulous parks across the coast, visit gcparks.com.au

Great things to do with mum this MayFArM DIsCovery DAy - FReeSunday 6 May - 10am to 12 noon Currumbin Community Farm Campus, 1226 Currumbin Creek Road

AdvEnTure CHallEngE - FREESaturday 12 May - 10am to 12 noon Harley Park, Marine Parade, Labrador

Bookings required bookings@vertecadventure.com.au

KAyaKing AdvEnTure wAvEBReAK island - $5Saturday 26 May - 9.30am to 11.30am

Bookings required bookings@vertecadventure.com.au

sTand Up PAddlE wOrKshOp - $10Sunday 27 May - 8am and 9.30am

Paradise Point Parklands, The Esplanade, Paradise Point

Bookings required Jamie 0416 075 994

get ouTdooRs this MOTHeR’s DAY! RIght AcRoss ThE citY thERe aRE ManY spECIal WAys TO CElebRATe.Pack a picnic and grab a rug for a traditional family gathering in mum’s favourite park, or have a barbecue lunch while enjoying some of the best views on the Gold Coast.

Take the load off mum’s shoulders and treat her to some great food and wonderful service for brunch or lunch in one of the popular cafes operating at Palm Beach Parklands or Broadwater Parklands. Or why not enjoy fish and chips at sunset?

You could also go for a bush walk, ride a bike, walk a dog, fish, swim or fly a kite. Mother’s Day is the perfect time to get out and discover yourself in our great Gold Coast parks.

Coast Kids GC | 23

Daddy Diaries

Words: Anthony sherratt

I know I’ve covered some of the struggles of being a stay-at-home dad out of his element previously, but I recently came across a new situation I’d not considered before.

With the girls getting older and more active, we’re obviously spending more time out and about. A lot of that time is in parks (the twins love slides and swings and climbing and of course branches they can hit each other with). This is the Australian way. Especially the hitting with branches part.

But recently we were Life Being In It at the local park and one of the girls needed a change. Off to the toilet block but wait: what now?

I’m a male. My twins are girls. Unlike shopping centres there is no parents’ room or handicapped toilet.

Which toilet do I use? The grotty male park toilet where undesirables hang out? Or the female toilet where women might be upset to discover a male in their midst?

Go into possible pervert territory or instead possibly be seen as one?

The girls are of an age where they are no longer oblivious to their surroundings. Indeed, they take an active interest with a curiosity that I love. Most of the time.

But seriously, it stopped me in my tracks. I’ve since tried both with varying degrees of success.

The male toilets have the advantage of my presence not being questioned. But they have open urinals

which allow easy viewing for curious little girls. And remember: I have two and am usually tending to one with my hands full. And that’s without the smell or hygiene concerns.

The female toilets, with their cubicles, are a preferable environment but intruding upon a sacred female zone is not only against my upbringing but fraught with danger. I had one lady go to slap me when she walked in and saw me there. In her anger she hadn’t seen the girls. Even then she was barely mollified.

Recently I was at an indoor playground which, for some bizarre and socially annoying reason, didn’t have a change table in the male bathroom. The ladies did apparently, as did the handicapped toilet but the latter had such a huge line that I was forced to pass the changing baton onto the wife. Fine by me as I was fortunate enough to be there with a female though even if she hadn’t been the handicapped toilet would have been fine (long wait notwithstanding though problematic with toilet training).

So what’s the answer to this gender challenging question? Well I’ve tried both and don’t have a definitive answer but what I’m doing now is standing outside the ladies and loudly announcing “I’m a father of twin girls and about to bring them in and asking if anyone is there?”

If no one is then fine. If someone is, I ask if they mind if I bring the girls in. Most women are understanding. Some not but I still prefer the ladies because it’s less stressful for me, and even at two, the girls are already too interested in “what’s down there”.

And, most importantly when you have two to look after but only one set of eyes, brightly coloured urinal cakes look like lollies to little kids.

For the woman who has everythingWhen you’re juggling a career and a family, you probably feel like you’ve got your hands full.

But what if sickness or injury meant you were the one who needed looking after? How much would it cost to replace everything you do – both at work and at home? Getting the right insurance cover is never more important than when others are depending on you.

To make sure your family has the cover they need, call Arrow Insurance Consultant Services on 07 5530 3500.

This information has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making a decision based on this material, you should consider its appropriateness in regardsto your objectives, financial situation and needs. A financial advisor can help you determine what’s appropriate before you make a decision, and provide you with a Product Disclosure Statement.

Arrow Insurance Consultant Services Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative of Millennium3 Financial Services Pty Ltd ABN 61 094 529 987 AFSL No. 244252.

A wee problem!!

wHiCh ToilET do i usE? tHe gROtTy malE parK toilet wherE undEsirablEs hAng Out?

24 | Coast Kids GC

Behaviour Specialists> Understanding & changing any unwanted behaviour(s)> Adults - Adolescents - Children > Unwanted anger, anxiety, sadness, grief, frustration

Call for more information on our upcoming regional workshops

FABIC Director Tan Curtis – Author of the highly acclaimed “Challenging Change... Behaviour Strategies for Life” For general enquiries email info@fabic.com.au or call 07 5530 5099 FABIC National Behavioural Centre: Level One Worongary Town Centre, Worongary, Gold Coast QLD.

fabic.com.au

> Pervasive Developmental Disorder

> Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

> Social skills > Autism Spectrum Disorder> Asperger’s Syndrome

Words: tan curtisq&ABehaviour

Each person (you, me, your children... all others) fluctuates between Level 1 (calm and wanted behaviour) and Level 5 (meltdowns) on a regular basis. A Behaviour Scale makes this previously abstract fluctuation visual, concrete and personalised for each person; consequently ensuring many people have EXACTLY the SAME MESSAGE about a person who has a completed Behaviour Scale.

At some stage, every person has had a meltdown... reached Level 5! The meltdown behaviours used look different for each person. For example: some

may tantrum, cry, withdraw, over eat, refuse to

eat, use aggression, self harm, harm others, use

drugs or alcohol, attack others or property, refuse

to participate in anything & totally withdraw; in fact

any excess emotional response. All meltdowns are a result of escalated anxiety; escalated anxiety because the person does not feel equipped to manage what is currently presented to them ... their challenging situations!

In the process of escalation from 1 through to 5 there

are two key factors that are important to identify:

1. A person’s challenging situations: the experiences presented to us that we don’t feel equipped to manage, thus feel a varied degree of loss of control over.

2. A person’s behaviours: our body’s signals to tell us what level (between 1 & 5) we are currently at.

wHaT CAn i usE A BeHaviOur scalE FoR?Consistency in language creates a supportive environment for all those sharing the same space (families, classrooms, workplaces, etc. The Behaviour Scale has four main purposes:

1. A COMMUNiCATiON TOOL

Develop good communication around identified “challenging situations” and “behaviours”. This information enables people to identify what colour the person is at and why... consequently allowing others to not take another person’s behaviour change personally. Further to this, this information

assists in understanding and supporting behaviour change in self or other people.

2. AN ASSESSMENT TOOL

Learn to identify our own, or another person’s “challenging situations” and “behaviours” at each level by asking “What colour do you go to when ...?”

3. AN iNDiCATOR OF WHEN TO iMPLEMENT BEHAviOUR CHANGE STRATEGiES

Most people wait until it’s too late (past level 3) to try and respond to a pending meltdown and therefore strategies used rarely work. Learning to identify what “behaviours” a person’s body is using at code yellow supports people to intervene before it’s too late ... before the meltdown is inevitable.

4. A SELF-MONiTORiNG TOOL

Learn to identify your own “challenging situations” and “behaviours” to develop greater insight for your own patterns of behaviour. The information identified can then be used to minimise your own unwanted behaviour deteriorations and identify when to seek

The Behaviour Scale visually describes the scale each person exists on – a scale with 5 separate levels.

Level 5 = CODE RED = 0 – 20% perceived control over the current experience

Level 4 = CODE ORANGE = 20 – 40% perceived control over the current experience

Level 3 = CODE YELLOW = 40 – 60% perceived control over the current experience

Level 2 = CODE GREEN = 60 – 80% perceived control over the current experience

Level 1 = CODE BLUE = 80- 100% perceived control over the current experience

wHaT is a BeHaviOur scAlE?A Behaviour Scale is a communication tool that increases successful communication and reduces unnecessary conflict and/or unnecessary escalation of unwanted behaviours. The Behaviour Scale increases a persons’ understanding of how they and other people experience their day-to-day living.

Coast Kids GC | 25

Behavioursupport to manage your identified challenges.

Once a Behaviour Scale has been completed

illustrating a person’s “challenging situations” and

“behaviours”, all people sharing time with that

person will have the SAME MESSAGE! Imagine

the reduced confusion and anxiety if ALL people

in the one community had a completed Behaviour

Scale and spoke the language consistent with the

“Behaviour Scale”...

• “Miss, when you correct me I go to orange

because I haven’t learnt to cope with mistakes...

my yelling at you is my way of trying to tell you

this”... or...

• “Honey I’m at orange because of something that

happened at work ... my snappiness is not about

you” or ...

• “Dad, I’m very close to red because I got bullied

at school and I still feel upset... my refusal to play

ball with you is not a personal rejection”

• “Son, I misinterpreted your response to me and

thought you were being disrespectful ... my

refusal to call you back is me telling you I feel hurt

by something you did”

wHaT is FAbiC’s onlinE BeHaviOur scale ProGRamME?This programme supports the development of a

personalised Behaviour Scale for each individual

user. The Online Behaviour Scale Programme

will lead the user through a series of questions

that support them to identify their own or another

person’s:

1. Challenging Situations

2. Behaviours their body uses at each colour

The end product is a printable, personalised

“Behaviour Scale” that can be circulated with all

those sharing time with the individual person.

See out new online behaviour scale

programme at: http://www.tancurtis.com.au/

behaviour/index_new.php

PERCEivED LOSS OF CONTROL OvER WHAT?(My CHALLENGiNG SiTUATiONS)

• People bossing me (telling me to do something)

• Losing when I am on the computer

• Change or cancellations

• People teasing me

• Lots of instructions

• People saying they will do something and then not

doing it

• Making mistakes

• Cleaning my room

• Christmas (too much excitement)

• Not being allowed to go to the toilet when I ask

• Assemblies (crowds, noise, bored)

• People changing the rules

• People saying maybe

• Reading

• Writing

• Other children touching me

• Library (too cold)

• Kids making noise in class

• Mum driving a different way home

• Maths

• Shopping When my teacher is away sick

• Dinner time

• Having a bath

• My sister not listening to me

• Playing with friends

• Winning on the computer

• Break times

• Puzzles

• Lego

WHAT BEHAviOURS AM i USiNG?(My WARNiNG SiGNS)

• Biting

• Hitting and kicking

• Throwing things

• Barricading self in classroom

• Running out of school grounds

• Spitting

• Screaming “Don’t talk)

• Rocking

• Tense muscles

• Stop listening

• Angry face

• Voice is more aggressive

• Condescending with comments

• Snatching

• Avoid eye contact

• Interrupt when being spoken to Growling

• Scratching at the ground

• Louder voice

• Making noises

• Fidgety- he cannot sit still

• Getting out of my chair

• Asking the same question over and over

• Talk in a quicker voice

• Get more excitable/quicker with my actions Gets busy

doing something (to avoid the challenge)

• Ignore person calling my name

• Easy to communicate

• Relaxed /floppy

• Smiling or calm face

• Using my “normal” voice

• Follow instructions willingly

• Want to help other people

LeveL 5 – Code RedMeLTdoWN –

Any Extreme Emotion0-20% perceived control

LeveL 4 – Code oRaNge

High intensity behaviour change20-40% perceived control

LeveL 3 – Code YeLLoW

increase intensity behaviour change40-60% perceived control

LeveL 2 – Code gReeN

Low intensity behaviour change60-80% perceived control

LeveL 1 – Code BLue

Calm + Wanted behaviours80-100% perceived control

BeHaviOur scale

PleasE nOTe WE ALL USE LEVEL 5 BEHAVIOURS... What does yours look like... How often do you go to code red... DO YOU WANT TO LEARN HOW TO CHANGE???

Send us your questions on children’s behaviour to editor@coastkidsgc.com.au and put Kids’ Behaviour in the subject line

26 | Coast Kids GC

What’s on in…

3rd May

MadaM sparrow’s Market29d Musgrave avenue Chirn park (down the painted lane) Chirn park village

5th May

faMily fitness fun3pm till 4.30pmgold Coast botanical gardens 258 ashmore road benowaleaps and bounds Childrens fitness Centre(07) 5534 4030

5th May

Creative wink12pm till 3pmMother’s day workshopkirra hill Community & Cultural Centregarrick street Coolangattawww.creative-wink.com

Sport…5th May gC suns –v- freMantle 4.30pm till 7pm Metricon stadium nerang – broadbeach road Carrara www.goldcoastfc.com.au

gold Coast titans –v- tigers 7.30pm skilled park robina www.titans.com.au

Community… 5th May beaCh Care 9am till 11am paradise point foreshore (opposite abalone avenue) paradise point (07) 5552 85305

12th May beaCh Care 9am till 11am Constance esplanade

runaway bay 07) 5552 8530

19th May national volunteer week: beaCh Care 9am till 11am labrador harley park (north of Charis seafood) labrador (07) 5552 8530

31st May australia’s biggest Morning tea australia wide 1300 65 65 85 www.biggestmorningtea.com.au

Entertainment…19th May blues on broadbeaCh MusiC festival 5pm broadbeach precinct www.bluesonbroadbeach.com

19th May disney’s aladdin Jr presented by Merrimac shs 7.30pm the arts Centre gold Coast 135 bundall road surfers paradise www.theartscentregc.com.au

26/27th May Jolly JaMs 10am till 11.30am Cavill Mall surfers paradise (07) 5584 3700

if you would like to place your event in our calendar, please email us at editor@coastkidsgc.com.au and add Calendar of Events in the subject line.

6th May

us navy 7th fleet band2pmsurfers paradise foreshore surfers paradisewww.surfersparadise.com

6th May

farM disCovery day10am till 12pmCurrumbin farm Campus1226 Currumbin Creek road Currumbin valley(07) 5533 0312

9th May

hey presto MagiC show10.30amsouthport branch libraryCnr lawson & gardens streets southport(07) 5581 7200

10th May

the gold Coast Careers expo9am till 8pm raCv royal pines resortross street benowa(07) 5510 3790

11th May

online learning for kids10.30am till 11.30amelanora branch librarythe pines shopping Centre guineas Creek road elanora(07) 5581 1671

11-12th May

2012 woMen’s health and wellbeing expo9am till 4pmrobina Community Centre196 robina town Centre drive robinaJo kane 0414 572901

13th May

Craft in the park10.30am till 12pmobservatory park southern skies avenuereedy Creekinfo@creativecraftcentre.com

18th May 2012 Mother’s day ClassiC7.45am till 11amhollindale park Cnr Macarthur parade & seaworld drv Main beachwww.mothersdayclassic.com.au

18th May

gifted kids1pm till 2.30pmrobina branch libraryrobina town Centre drive robina(07) 5581 1600

20th May rspCa Million paws walkall day eventdoug Jennings parkthe spit Main beachwww.millionpawswalk.com.au[image attached]

Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival

what’s on

26/27th May

Jolly JaMs 10am till 11.30am Cavill Mall surfers paradise(07) 5584 3700

24-27 MaysanCtuary Cove international boat showwww.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au

27 MayMusiC live at bondMark boulle 3-5pmadCo amphitheatrebond universitywww.bond.edu.au/events

Coast Kids GC | 27

Unfortunately, many couples enter into pregnancy

with unrealistic expectations. Parenting is a

demanding and constant job: 24 hours a day

without time off. It is full of routines, feeding,

dressing, washing and of course, lack of sleep!

With all of these combined – it is no wonder many

parents find it difficult to adjust to parenthood.

Myths OF ParenthOod inclUde:~ Motherhood is always happy and will fulfil your

every desire

~ Every other mother copes

~ Having a baby will improve our marriage

~ Once you’re a mother you will instinctively know

how to breastfeed

~ Parenthood comes naturally

~ Babies sleep

~ Mothers should be available 24 hours a day

~ Parenthood is romantic

~ The baby will fit into our routine

When parenthood does not meet prior expectations,

parents tend to blame themselves. Even more

difficult to admit is when you’re not managing and

asking for help. It is often believed that if you ask

for help, you are bad parents or not trying hard

enough. Although this is a misconception and far

from the truth, parents continue to go it alone.

Most depression can be related to a major life event. A perfect example of this is childbirth. Postnatal depression affects up to one in seven women in Australia who have had a baby and it affects lives at such a crucial time.

Post-natal depression is different from the so-called “baby blues”. Postnatal depression doesn’t go away. The baby blues affect 80 percent of women, usually between the third and tenth day after giving birth, while post-natal depression may develop and persist for weeks or many months, it can develop at any time in the first year after a baby is born and can begin suddenly or develop gradually.

Postnatal depression (PND) is something you cannot always ‘get over’ yourself. The most difficult part? Asking for help.

I once heard someone describe PND perfectly: It is an illness, not a character flaw.

There are a number of factors that can place women at a greater chance of developing PND. It is important to remember however that depression does not discriminate and it can affect anyone at anytime.

Risk factors may include; having a history of depression prior to pregnancy or during pregnancy, difficult labour, health issues with the baby, unstable relationship, lack of emotional support, a family history of depression, a recent stressful life event

(ie: moving house or death of a loved one) or having an unsettled baby.

Obvious signs of PND may include but are not inclusive to PND;

Always exhausted, crying uncontrollably, feeling teary, not being able to sleep when given the chance or excessive sleep, nightmares, dramatic mood changes, irritability, negative thoughts, forgetfulness, scared of being alone, not wanting to be with others, feeling unable to cope, feeling inadequate or failing as a mother, under/over eating, obsessive thoughts, anxiety or panic feelings, inability to cope with general daily activities and low self esteem.

Signs and symptoms of PND vary considerably. Feelings associated with bringing a new baby into the world can sometimes be misinterpreted as ‘normal’ and ‘expected’. Sleep deprivation and depression present very similar – sleep can make our ability to functions very difficult. However, if you develop feelings that are interfering with your enjoyment of parenting you need to seek help immediately.

It is important to acknowledge when something is wrong and that it’s OK to seek help. Your first point of call should be your general practitioner (GP) or for more information www.beyondblue.org.au or beyondblue info line 1300 22 4636

POsTnaTAl DepREssiOn Words: Michelle Jackson

Midwife Matters

For the majority of women, having a child is the most physical, social and emotional experience they will every experience! Men’s experience of pregnancy and birth is often different, however the end result is the same: a crash course in adaptation to parenthood once the baby has arrived.

POsT-nAtal depREssion is dIFfERenT TO ThE “baBY blUEs” – pOsTnaTal depREssion doesn’t go away.

Ph: 5631 4222 l website: www.goldcoastmidwiferypractice.com.au

Antenatal, Birth & Postnatal careLet us support you from conception to six weeks post birth

24 hour support l Your own midwife l Home visitsPostnatal depression screening and supportBreastfeeding support l Medicare rebates available

Rosie Blyth Sharon Dalton

Maria Nixon

28 | Coast Kids GC

Mamarazzi

Brooke 3,Paradise Point

Noah 6,Bilambil

Pheobe 11,Tweed Heads

Conner 9,Sea World

Finn 5 days,Palm Beach

Chloe 13,Tweed Heads

Coast Kids GC | 29

Kids out and about on the gold coast. Email us your kids in action enjoying some fun in our beautiful city

at editor@coastkidsgc.com.au

Marley 4 & Kaius 3,Ashmore

Aidan 9,Tweed Heads

Olivia 2,

Mummy Tree Market

Sanctuary Cove

Jett 3 mths,Mummy Tree Market Sanctuary Cove

Noah 3 & Olivia 5,Ashmore

Jaxon 3,Mummy Tree Market Sanctuary Cove

30 | Coast Kids GC

experience a world of cuisine at Chevron renaissanCeBarItalia l 5592 4700

Chelles @ Chevron l 5539 0062

Classic India l 55706132

Ristorante Renaissance l 5504 5401

Sardijionos l 5539 0080

Wa-ssam japanese l 5538 8836

Flames Gourmet Grill l 5526 8611

Uchouten japanese l 5504 6063

CHEVRONRENAISSANCE

3240 Sur fers Paradise Blvd

Sur fers Paradise

QLD 4217, Australia www.chevrondining.com.au

Superbly located for people watching and

basking in the sunshine during the day and

neon-nightlife after dark, BarItalia is a taste

of Europe, chic curbside dining in the heart

of Surfers Paradise.

This local landmark on the corner of

Elkhorn and Surfers Paradise Boulevard

has undergone a complete transformation,

tweaking the menu to encompass

seasonal favourites and bringing onboard

some of the country’s best breakfast chefs

to create all-day dishes that delight.

With distinctly European influences, the

menu features meals with the traits “fresh,

local, seasonal, and large”, according to

owner, Simon Vella, who has been in the

industry for 15 years, both as a chef and

as food and beverage manager for some

of the world’s most modern airports.

“We change the menu to suit what’s in

season, but the staples remain – antipasti,

pasta, pizza – all home-made by expert

chefs. We also have a vast selection of

Italian beers and aperitifs, and authentic

Italian coffee, which has a cult following!

Our desserts are to die for and our

breakfasts are second to none!”

For the ideal

way to start the

weekday or lazy

weekend, breakie

choices include the

healthy, hearty Breakfast

Pizza, featuring Mozzarella and tomato

base, cherry tomatoes, whole cracked

eggs and ricotta, topped with prosciutto

and rocket greens, or Neapolitan Baked

Eggs, which is baked house beans in

Napolitana sauce, eggs, basil leaves and

melted mozzarella, or Smoked Salmon

Stack, with Potato rosti, grilled asparagus,

smoked salmon and poached eggs with

home-made hollandaise sauce.

“All year round, BarItalia is the ideal spot to

savour great food, buzzing ambience and

excellent service,” Simon states.

Ideal for date night dining - breakie, lunch

or dinner – BarItalia wants to encourage

you to leave the kids with a trusted relative

or baby sitter and savour some genuine

Italian hospitality. Especially as it gets

cooler, rug up, snuggle up, nestle in and

sample the fare and each other’s company

Date night

Bar Italia

Coast Kids GC | 31

Quality bread with

a specialised gluten free

range

Good Bread Healthy Life

BAKER'S CLUB ROBINA Shop 2019B

Robina Town Centre(opposite/new Woolworths)

Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina

BAKER'S CLUB ASHMORE 345 Southport/Nerang Rd

(next to Spotlight) Ashmore

www.bakersclub.com.au

Queensland-based franchise bakery chain, Baker’s Club, is fast becoming a favourite provider of gluten-free breads.

Since introducing the range in 2006 customers have been flocking to the company’s seven stores, located across south-east Queensland.

Baker’s Club Director, Christian Coenen, believes the popularity of the range is due to the superior taste of the breads, as compared to other options in the marketplace.

“The gluten-free range is baked with premium ingredients and ease due to our revolutionary food preparation system that allows all the baking to be undertaken during regular trading hours. Our customers enjoy the freshest breads, baked right in front of their eyes.”

The gluten-free breads contain no wheat or yeast and are baked using the industry’s most advanced glass fronted oven that is fully automated and produces stone-based heat – a traditional and authentic baking method from Europe that improves the crust and flavor.

Mr Coenen, a trained baker with a family tradition in the industry dating back to the 1850s, says the

problem with most gluten-free products is they are

very bland as they are baked with fewer ingredients.

“Our ovens ensure that a delicious crust forms,

enhancing flavours and textures, setting our breads

apart across the board but most especially in the

case of our gluten-free products.”

The range was originally introduced due to customer

demand, not only from Coeliacs but also diet

conscious customers, and includes a number of loaf

varieties including: gluten-free plain, gluten-free with

seeds, gluten-free fruit, as well as both seeded and

plain gluten-free pizza bases and fresh gluten-free

sandwiches made to order at each store.

Bakers Club plans to make the gluten-free bread

range available to as many Australian families as

possible in the coming years through their store

expansion plans and the development of their

online facilities.

“Health and convenience are core drives for our

business and the popularity of the gluten-free range

is a great testament to our business philosophy and

operations to date.”

More at www.bakersclub.com.au

supERiOr tasTe anD gooD FoR YOu!Words: Jeni Bone

Prep Time: 8 minutesCook Time: 12 minutesTotal Time: 20 minutes

ingredients: 1 x gluten free pizza base from Baker’s Club1 teaspoon good quality olive oil1/2 cup good quality gluten free pizza sauce1 cup of chopped ham1 cup chopped pineapple1 cup freshly grated tasty cheese

Preparation:Preheat oven to 230° CIf you have a pizza stone place it in oven to preheat. If not, use a baking sheet or round pizza pan.

Brush Baker’s Club pizza base with 1 teaspoon olive oil

Evenly spoon pizza sauce on pizza base

Sprinkle ham and pineapple on each pizza

Sprinkle tasty cheese on each pizza

Bake in preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and crust is golden brown

Reminder: Always make sure your work surfaces, utensils, pans and tools are free of gluten. Always read product labels. Manufacturers can change product formulations without notice. When in doubt, do not buy or use a product before contacting the manufacturer for verification that the product is free of gluten

gluTEn Free hAM And PInEApple PIzza ReciPE

32 | Coast Kids GC

MuMs sHaRE THEiR FaREAt My Mother’s Knee At My Mother’s Knee presents recollections of some of our best known celebrities as they share the recipes they learned at their mother’s knee.

Launched in time for Mother’s Day 2012, this delightful new book features celebrities in the kitchen with their mums. The book opens with Margaret Fulton, our very first foodie, sharing her mother’s recipe for Dundee cake which has now passed on to the third generation of cooks, her daughter Suzanne Gibbs. Dr Chris, from Bondi Vet, and his mother share their love of a barbecue lunch, Chrissie Swan talks about family meals in the 70s, Tetsuya reminisces about his Japanese childhood and its influence on his food, Lisa Wilkinson shares her favourite no-fuss family meal. Everyone has a moment, a recipe and a memory to share.

To make this book even more special, on Mother’s Day, ACP Books will make a donation from the sales of At My Mother’s Knee to Make-A-Wish® Australia – for children with life-threatening illnesses – to symbolise the importance of creating everlasting memories.

One of Lisa Wilkinson’s tasty treats from her “I’m too tired to cook” menu is Beef Burrito Baskets which her family devours with requests for more!

Super Foods. Super Fast.

Food

A patCHWoRK of fOOd MEMories & CElebRiTIes’ RECIpEs

Words: Jeni Bone

The Australian Women’s Weekly, At My Mother’s Knee (ACP Books, RRP $49.95). Available from bookstores & online at

www.acpbooks.com.au

Photographer: Tanya Zouev Stylist: Vicki Liley

Coast Kids GC | 33

Food

Preheat oven to 180°C/350°F. Spray four holes of six-hole (¾-cup/180ml) texas muffin pan with oil.

Push tortillas carefully into pan holes; bake about 15 minutes or until crisp. Cool in pan.

Meanwhile, heat half the oil in large frying pan; cook beef, in batches, over high heat, until browned. Remove from pan.

Heat remaining oil in same pan; cook onion, capsicums, garlic and spices, stirring, until onion softens. Return beef to pan with undrained tomatoes, stock and oregano; simmer, uncovered, about 1 hour or until sauce thickens and is reduced by half. Add beans; stir until heated through.

Meanwhile, make the avocado salsa.

Divide beef mixture into tortilla

cups; top with cheese. Bake about 5 minutes or until cheese melts.

Serve burrito baskets topped with sour cream, avocado salsa and coriander.

Avocado Salsa:

Combine ingredients in small bowl.

prep + cook time 1 hour 55 minutes serves 4

nutritional count per serving 54.9g total fat (20.7g saturated fat); 3507kJ (839 cal); 30.1g carbohydrate; 52.9g protein; 8.8g fibre

If you’re after a shortcut, you can skip making the tortilla baskets in steps 1 and 2, and simply serve the beef mixture, avocado salsa and accompaniments in warmed tortillas.

Beef burRiTO basKeTs

cooking-oil spray

4 x 15cm (6 inches) flour tortillas

2 tablespoons olive oil

600g (1¼ pounds) beef rump steak, sliced thinly

1 medium brown onion (150g), chopped coarsely

1 small green capsicum (bell pepper) (150g), sliced thinly

1 small yellow capsicum (bell pepper) (150g), sliced thinly

1 clove garlic, crushed

1 teaspoon ground cumin

½ teaspoon ground coriander

¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

400g (12½ ounces) canned diced tomatoes

1½ cups (375ml) beef stock

1 tablespoon coarsely chopped fresh oregano

400g (12½ ounces) canned kidney beans, drained, rinsed

1 cup (120g) coarsely grated cheddar cheese

1/2 cup (80g) sour cream

1/2 cup loosely packed fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves

ingREdIents

MEthOd

avoCAdo sAlsa1 medium avocado (250g), chopped finely

1 medium tomato (150g), seeded, chopped finely

1/2 small red onion (50g), chopped finely

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 tablespoon olive oil

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34 | Coast Kids GC

Montessori has become a known educational

method all over the world, but for many parents its

true meaning is a bit of a mystery. The Montessori

Method of Education is much more than a method

of educating children; it is a whole attitude of care

and respect for children.

‘The Education of children does not aim at

preparing them for school, but for life,’ expressed

Dr Maria Montessori, who developed this method

of education in 1870.

MOnTEssOri’s EduCATIonAl PrinCiples~ all children want to learn

~ children have ‘absorbent minds’

~ everything that occurs in their life has a profound

effect

~ children pass through sensitive periods in their

development

~ with freedom to investigate the world around

them, children will become active, engaged

learners

~ the child must be able to concentrate in order to

learn, and concentration develops as the

child fixes their attention on a task that they are

performing with their hands

~ the quality of a child’s early experiences are of

fundamental importance to their self construction

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Education

Coast Kids GC | 35

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”MOnTEssori EduCATIOnThe Montessori approach aims to allow each child to experience the joy of learning at their own pace, in a nurturing, non-competitive and co-operative environment in which intellectual and social development is linked.

MOnTEssori EnviRonMEnTsChildren work individually, or in small groups building knowledge and do not follow a curriculum. Montessori classrooms feature calm, caring, respectful communities of children in four age groupings beginning with toddlers to 3 years, 3 – 6 years, 6 – 9 years and 9 – 12 years of age.

tHe MOnTEssori ‘intEllecTUal’ MAtERiAlsThe Montessori materials are beautifully handcrafted (wooden and china) and are displayed

on low, open shelves. Children learn to work with increasing independence, concentration, taking control and responsibility for their own learning. The environments are orderly and well planned, allowing a physical, intellectual and social freedom. Everything is child-sized within reach to allow free choice.

tHe guide (FAciliTaToR Or DIrECTress)The ‘guide, facilitator or directress,’ introduces the children to each piece of material, in a precise, clear and enticing way when they are ready developmentally. The directress is foremost an observer, unobtrusively, yet carefully monitoring each child’s development as a role model. Key traits are respect, consistency, calmness, courtesy, tidy work, dignity and passion for learning, ‘A being, who can promote physical, intellectual and spiritual health,’ expressed Dr. Maria Montessori.

MOnTEssori EduCATIOn tOdayThe popularity and success of the Montessori Method is still evident today. There are thousands of Montessori schools operating all over the world and more than 3000 children are being educated in Montessori classrooms across Australia.

For more information www.motessori-mi.org

“The greatest sign of success for a teacher... is to be able to say, “The children are now working as if I did not exist.” Maria Montessori

Education

36 | Coast Kids GC

Great Gift Ideas

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Living Starts Here

Celebrate in style this mother’s day with some homemade touches. Mums all around Australia will be celebrating how amazingly blessed they are to be given the opportunity to have their lives filled deep with love from their babes and all the babes will be waiting on them hand and foot to make sure everything is just perfect for their very awesomely created (just for them) Mummies. Well we can hope that’s how it all works out and give them some tips, or you can always decorate beautifully for your own awesomely created Mum.

Some fun low cost ideas that your kids may like to make with a little bit of help.

MOTHeR’s DAy Family TrEE TablE runnerMake a family tree table runner with photos of family members. This Mother’s Day decoration can be made by combining a series of blank greeting cards, family photos, and some ribbon for decorating. Choose a colour theme for example pink and green if you want to create a shabby chic tea party look. The kids will love being involved and making your day special and if they are little you are teaching them for future years to do this day independently.

FAMilY tREE taBlecloTHPurchase an inexpensive cloth tablecloth that is white or off-white. This Mother’s Day decorations can be embellished with paint, potato stamping, and special written messages from all of the family. Place the tablecloth on the table. Once it’s dry, set the table and add a beautiful flower arrangement this will be treasured for years to come.

tIssUE paPEr flowersKids and adults can make Mother’s Day decorations under $10 with tissue paper and pipe cleaners. Cut up a variety of squares of cheap tissue paper. What you need is a variety of colors and sizes. Cut the tissue paper into four by four squares and six by six squares. Layer the squares of tissue paper with different colors and sizes. Poke a hole through the center with a pipe cleaner and then pinch the center of the tissue paper around the pipe cleaner.

Use these Mother’s Day decorations to make a bouquet of tissue paper flowers, a wreath for the door, a crown for Mum, or a string of flower garland for the wall.

MOTHeR’s DAy BanneRMother’s Day banner is pretty simple to make yourself. Buy a large roll of plain-white or brown-wrapping paper at a discount store. Measure out how much wrapping paper you need; cut off the excess. Draw the letters in pencil to spell out “Happy Mother’s Day” or “We Love you, Mum” or whatever you want to say. Use colored pastels, pencils, crayons or other markers to color in the letters. For a more decorative look, take old silk or artificial flowers apart and fill each letter with the petals!

I hope your Mother’s Day not only looks beautiful but is also full of love, relaxation, great memories and laughter.

hOMEMade MOTHeR’s DAy giFts Words: liliana Madigan

Coast Kids GC | 37

The term “Candida” (or Candidiasis) is used to describe yeast overgrowth in the body. It is a single cell fungus that lives in all mucus membranes on our bodies, the intestines, bladder, lungs etc.

There is always a fine balance between good and bad organisms in these membranes and when kept in the right proportion with other beneficial organisms in our body Candida keeps other “bad” organisms under control and helps in the digestive process of our food.

If Candida gets out of control and increases in numbers compared to other organisms it starts to cause health problems. Some of the more obvious symptoms are thrush and fungal skin rashes but some of the other less obviously related illnesses that it can cause are eczema, weakened immunity, ADHD, depression, bloating, recurrent UTIs, brain fog, and the list goes on.

A healthy immune and digestive system keeps the Candida numbers under control, but in times of

stress, high sugar diets, taking antibiotics or periods of high hormonal levels (pregnancy, contraceptive pill etc) Candida levels can greatly increase. The Candida organism produces toxic waste products such as acetaldehyde which cause destructive inflammatory processes and further weaken the immune system in the body.

Diagnosing Candida can sometimes be challenging as it is an organism that is always present in the body. A live blood analysis done by a naturopath can sometimes detect Candida in the blood stream which is always a problem as it should never be present there.

Healing Candidiasis requires healing and strengthening the immune system and the digestive process using various supplements such as herbs, digestive enzymes, and vitamins and minerals, such as A and C and zinc. As 70-80% of the lymphatic immune system resides in the gut lining, when this is strong it keeps Candida under control and if the

digestive system is working well then we absorb

our food and it isn’t left fermenting in the gut and

feeding the yeasts.

Due to the high stress levels, many hormonal

therapies and processed foods in our western

lifestyle Candida is seen in epidemic proportions

and causes many insidious illnesses that are

not managed well until the immune system and

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38 | Coast Kids GC

Being MuMModern mums the world over cherish the same precious words “I Love You Mum”.

Despite their challenges, diverse situations and in many cases fears for the future,

mothers are united in their primal instinct to protect, nurture and hope for the

happiness of their kids, whatever direction they choose in life.

From speaking with our friends, family and colleagues around the globe, we found

that though our circumstances, our customs and support networks may differ,

family is still held in prime place in our hearts, heads and hands. Working is a reality

for most, but ambitions take second place to our roles as mom, maman, mummy,

mamãe, mama.

Mums around the world

hOW Did MoTHeRhoOd DiFFER FroM youR expECTaTions?I didn’t think it was humanly possible to love

someone this much, for one. Being a mother is full

on and go go go, which is something that was a

shock to my system! Although, I cannot recall my

life without kids kds at all?!

With any new experience you never really know

what to fully expect; and I tend to usually picture

something completely different than what actually

transpires. I try not to over think my expectations

now (in all aspects of my life), and just go with it!

wHaT are the bEsT Things about beinG a Mom?I love being young at heart again! Being able to connect with my inner child and be silly is something that I have embraced 100%. I don’t take myself very seriously anymore and try to live in each moment and take it all in.

I believe that being a mom will be my greatest accomplishment, (I may fail at it sometimes!), however in my eyes, true success is raising a child.

And the ChallEnGes?The challenges… where to start? It is not all ‘rainbows and butterflies’ as every mom knows. My constant challenges are finding the right balance and ridding myself of guilt I reckon. Even with one child I get overwhelmed some days and have to regroup and try to follow my own advice.

wHaT dO You do fOr Fun WiTH Your fAMIly?Being a single mom, Noah and I have a lot of one on one time together. We love to go on adventures, try new experiences and explore our city. Because of our changing seasons, our fun changes from month to month. The winter months we wait for that first snow fall so that we can bundle up and

get outside to play (then hit the coffee shop for

hot chocolate of course!). Noah loves the cherry

blossoms in spring as it is beautiful sign that the

sunshine will be here soon enough and biking,

picnicking, park playing and the beach are around

the corner! He is an active little guy, so we do a

lot of sport.

hOW has life ChangED sinCE yoU weRE growinG uP?I always remind myself how my parents raised

children that turned out “ok”. They were not armed

with all the information and resources that we now

have, and were kind of left to truly figure it all out for

themselves. The no seat belt situation and moms

being able to smoke in the hospital right after

having their baby always reminds me of how times

have definitely changed, (blows my mind really).

wHaT is Your GREAtEsT HoPE FoR youR kIds?My hope is that he understands that happiness is

a wonderful journey. I hope he finds his path with

confidence and always knows he has great love

behind him. As Dr. Seuss so puts it; “there is no

one alive that is you-er than you”! To be true to the

person he becomes.

CAnAdA Melissa Dubienski - Noah (almost 5 yrs)

Jeni Bone & Keeley o’connor interview mums around the world

Coast Kids GC | 39

hOW Did MoTHeRhoOd DiFFER FroM youR expECTaTions?I found it a lot more difficult than I had imagined, more tiring (especially when they’re small). I was physically tired, exhausted. But now they’re older, the challenges are different – like what time they go out at night with their friends, if they drink or might get drunk. In Brazil, young people start drinking younger, even though it’s illegal. When they go out with friends we’re worried about the violence in the streets of Sao Paulo. We have to be in touch with their school lives and stay close to them as they develop.

wHaT are the bEsT Things about beinG a Mum?The love they show us and our love for them, the companionship, to watch them grow and bloom. We learn a lot when our kids are small, we extend our care to other people’s children. I think we become better people, more complete, compassionate and without a doubt, less self-centred.

And the ChallEnGes?When we become mothers, nobody teachers us, you learn on the job, through your mistakes and triumphs. What I think is the most important is to pass on your values like ethics, respect for

others, nature and animals, respect for your family, responsibility to studies and work, respect for our health – everything that makes a human being dignified and honest. It’s vital that our kids grow to become independent and happy.

hOW Does your goVeRnMenT and sociEtY assist Mums to WoRK anD raisE KIds?These days, maternity leave has been extended from three to six months, so mums can spend more time with their babies and babies can stay with their mums at such an important time for breast feeding and bonding. The middle class has always had tradition of the luxury of a nanny and a housekeeper, but even this is changing – nannies are getting expensive and hard to find, compared to 20 years ago. One good thing is that school is from 7.30am to 12.30pm, then children go home, have lunch with the family, then do other activities like learning English, swimming training, judo, tennis.

As TEEnaGERs, hoW do YOuR KIds need MOsT GuidAnce FROM you abouT ThEIr ChOices, EspeciAlly in sAo PAulo?I still help them in their choice of friends, how to behave, know the difference between right and wrong and why, where they can and shouldn’t go, I

like to know who they’re with and where (not always easy), including their online friendships. My kids don’t go out late at night yet.

hOW has life ChangED sinCE yoU weRE growinG uP?There was no internet, the world seemed a lot less violent, kids played in the street more and were free to be kids, they weren’t as exposed to the media. I think people were less materialistic then too.

wHaT is Your GREAtEsT HoPE FoR youR kIds?What I want the most for my kids is that they are healthy and happy, and that they become adults with morals and ethics, responsible citizens who are independent and manage to adapt to any situation, no matter where they find themselves. AND that they never forget to call their mummy!

hOW Did MoTHeRhoOd DiFFER FroM youR expECTaTions?I hadn’t intended to be a single Mum so that is the biggest difference in my expectations of parenting. Their father is still very much involved in the kids’ lives, but from very far away. This changes many of those images I had about parenting as a family/couple. This is both good and bad: the work load is doubled and I don’t have anyone to bounce ideas off of, but I don’t have to ‘negotiate’ different parenting styles either.

wHaT are the bEsT Things about beinG a MuM?Watching my children turn into amazing people. Everyday I am amazed at how lucky I am to have such fabulous kids. They’re funny, smart, sweet, loving and pretty entertaining! Feeling their love for

me makes the days that much easier, especially the hard ones.

And the ChallEnGes?The challenges have been staying patient and letting them grow without my constant interference, trying to keep up with the many things in their lives without completely losing myself, and balancing discipline, praise, encouragement and teaching all the while making sure they know how much they are loved, no matter what. I am lucky in that I live in a town where school is state funded and our school is amazing! It is one of very few ‘Blue Ribbon’ schools in the States and is still very small and intimate in nature. There is also a great after school care program run on site for very little money. This program is run by the town and is also amazing. Maine has a really thorough health care program for people who need it. It covers everything from basic preventative care (including vision and dental) through behavioural counselling and things of that nature. My own small group of friends have been incredible at helping me be a single Mum, whether it is by actually looking after my kids or looking after me! Not sure what I would do without them.

wHaT dO You do fOr Fun WiTH Your fAMIly?We spend a lot of time at the beach, all four seasons of the year. Summer swimming, surfing, sand castle building. Spring and Fall walking, shell hunting, castle building and running the dogs. In winter just appreciating how beautiful it is even if it is a bit bleak sometimes. We also travel a lot to visit friends and family, hike, bike and hang out in the garden.

wHaT dO You do fOr Fun WiTH Your fAMIly?Things feel less safe and secure than they did when I was growing up. I am lucky enough to live in a community where people still leave their houses open and even the keys in the car, but the news is full of stories involving people not so blessed. There is also the whole computer/Internet introduction. Immediate gratification in information, news, phones, etc just was unheard of when I was growing up.

wHaT is Your GREAtEsT HoPE FoR youR kIds?My greatest hope for my kids is that they continue to grow as healthy, happy, loving, open minded people and eventually get to have the joy of watching their own kids do the same!

usA Melissa Beverly, Kennebunk, Maine, USA - Ella 8 yrs, Oliver 6 yrs

Brazil Roberta Brotero Sao Paulo - Helena 16, Marcelo 13

Mums around the world

CAnAdA Melissa Dubienski - Noah (almost 5 yrs)

40 | Coast Kids GC

hOW Did MoTHeRhoOd DiFFER FroM youR expECTaTions?Motherhood has exceeded my expectations over and over, making me a better person, more willing and more patient! It brings its challenges and with twins more so, on a day when I am working I feel like I have done a day’s work before 8am. We live our life like a military operation and it’s not for all, but it works for us. Life in our house doesn’t stop and we love it – we wouldn’t have it any other way!

Sometimes getting the twins into the car can seems like a monstrous task, I will have one in the car seat ready to go, whilst the other is running back down the drive towards the house. The supermarket...I am sure they cringe when they see us coming, especially with Grace’s new found frown and shouting the word “NO” at everyone. My biggest challenge is worry. As a mother I worry about everything – from having enough nappies in the day bag to telling my husband in the middle of the night, that the twins are too quiet.

wHaT are the bEsT Things about beinG a Mum?The best things about being a mum for me, is the laughter, the last little smile after the bedtime story, the unconditional love my children give and the overwhelming love I feel for them.

And the ChallEnGes?All three of our children have busy schedules, swimming; play gym, toddler groups, and football, Cubs. All of these come at a cost to ourselves, but we feel they benefit our children largely as Society has changed since I was a child and this has had a large impact on the freedom all of our children will have away from the family home. At my eldest son’s age, I remember freely playing away from my home with neighbouring children in the parks and recreational areas. My parents were at ease that I was safe – local people looked out for one another and kept one another safe. As a child I never remember any gangs or general disruptive behaviour around me.

Our son has never, as of yet experienced playing independently away from the house with his peers, as it just doesn’t seem appropriate in today’s society. Instead like all of his school friends at the moment he is still confined to the garden with supervised visits to the park and takes part in a lot of organised activities. This is a great shame, as although my son loves taking part in all his activities, I have no doubt he would be just as happy to grab his bike from the garage and take a ride around the local area or kick a ball around the park with his friends. My children are fortunate to have parents who can provide extracurricular activities, if that wasn’t the case not much would be offered to them especially Liam at his age.

wHaT dO You do fOr Fun WiTH Your fAMIly?Our local Children’s Services, Sure Start provide free activities for under fives during Term Time including messy play, gym, toddler meetings and a toy library. These are great, but numbers are limited and they are in demand. Like many I remain on long

waiting lists and continue to pay for alternatives.

hOW Does the GovernMEnt oR soCietY suppoRT bEing A muM?The Government here in the UK is working better than ever with new mums; we have up to 12 months maternity leave, nine months of which is paid. When returning to work we then have the right to change our contracts to “child friendly hours”.

Working mums face expensive childcare costs, the average cost of full time childcare is £729 per child for a child under the age of two years nationally. Little help is given towards the rising costs of childcare unless you are entitled to claim social benefits such as working and family tax credits. If you meet their criteria of a low house hold income than up to 70% of your childcare fees will be paid for you. However, every child receives a free pre- school placement from the age of 3 across the United Kingdom. This is available in all Early Years settings including those within the private sector (Private Nurseries, Montessori, and Childminder) for three hours a day within School Term Time. The funding is for the duration of one year, or until they start school whichever comes first.

hOW has life ChangED sinCE yoU weRE growinG uP?Family time is very precious to us, our working week is sometimes so hectic at the weekend we like to relax and all spend time together...the chores always wait! We take long walks with the dog, bike rides. We all love to swim, eat out, and visit places like the beach, zoo, and local country parks.

wHaT is Your GREAtEsT HoPE FoR youR kIds?Our greatest hope for all of our children is that they will always be happy, healthy and live fulfilling lives.

uk Sian Goyns - Liam 8 yrs, Oliver & Grace 19 month old twins

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Coast Kids GC | 41

Overcoming Mother Guilt

Guilt is so pervasive that many of us presume it is a natural part of mothering! American author, Judith Warner describes the plight of women today in her book, Perfect Madness: “Too many [women] are becoming anxious and depressed because they are overwhelmed and disappointed. Too many are letting their lives be poisoned by guilt because their expectations can’t be met, and because there is an enormous cognitive dissonance between what they know to be right for themselves and what they’re told is right for their children.”

But take heart, researcher and demographer Suzanne M. Bianchi, has surveyed the current research literature and her findings may help working mothers lessen some of that guilt. Bianchi points out:

•Despitethefactthatmorewomenareinthepaid labour force than ever before, the time mothers spend with their children has not changed much.

• Research by Cathleen Zick and Keith Bryant indicates that mothers today report spending

as much time with their children as did mothers

during the Baby Boom.

• Per family, Zick and Bryant estimate mothers

in the 1920s spent the same time in child care

activities as those in the 1970s.

• In theearly20thCentury,mothersspentmuch

of their time involved in unpaid family work and

housework. In addition, larger families meant

older children could mind younger children.

• Because families today are smaller, mothers

actually spend more care time per child than

mothers in previous generations.

• Although much effort has been devoted to

searching for negative results from mom working outside the home, there has been relatively little negative consequence for children.

• Research suggests that working mothers protect time with their children by reallocating their priorities. They may do less housework or volunteer work and at the same time give up leisure time and sleep.

• Evidence reveals that mothers, on average, have not reduced their time with children, while fathers (at least married fathers) have significantly increased the time they spend with their children.

So cheer up! Enjoy both your work and your family, without your share of the guilts!

All about her…

At Chevron Renaissance we’re all about you too!Clio CosmeticsHeaven SalonsPrincess PollyJewellery in ParadiseYours InternationalSupre

Ce-CiSee & SeenSobiSweet and ViciousNzket designsChicabooti

CHEVRONRENAISSANCE

3240 Sur fers Paradise Blvd

Sur fers Paradise

QLD 4217, Australia www.chevronfashion.com.au

neWs, infO, Tips, GAdgeTs And Much MOrE.Words: Jeni Bone

42 | Coast Kids GC

Blushbeauty salons

Four locations:suite 5 runaway shopping Village. P: 5528 9324

shop 202 tweed city shopping centre. P: 5524 4455shop 39 beenleigh Marketplace.P: 3382 0900

shop 3 Pinnacle Pines, Pacific Pines. P: 5665 9119

b o o k o n l i n e : w w w . b l u s h b e a u t y s a l o n s . c o M . a u

GiFt Vouchers aVailable

ear PiercinG…FroM $29 (includes studs and ear care solution).

we are the experts when it comes to ear Piercing

for babies right through to the young at heart!!body Piercing also available.

ultraceuticals stockists

Living under the Australian sun is tough on skin, even if you cover up, wear sunscreen and avoid the sun altogether. Developed by cosmetic physician Dr Geoffrey Heber and entirely Australian made and owned, Ultraceuticals is one of Australia’s pre-eminent cosmeceutical brands, offering professional-grade products and in-clinic treatments, formulated to address major skin concerns – ageing, pigmentation and acne.

With a combination of sophisticated, patented delivery systems and potent, proven anti-ageing stars like Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), each product is formulated with maximum safety and effectiveness, so you get results which you can actually see.

Ultraceuticals for your best ever skin

All about her...

Coast Kids GC | 43

President of: The Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).

Member of: Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. Plastic and Reconstructive Society of Queensland. International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.

Corresponding Member of: The American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

TH E LAYT CL I N I CP L A S T I C S U R G E R Y

P 5597 4100www.drlayt.com

Suite 1, AHC House, 14 Carrara St, Benowa

The effects of pregnancy and breast feeding can take their toll on breast tissue and skin.

A breast lift is an operation that addresses these results from having children.  A breast

lift can be either a medical or cosmetic procedure. If classified as medical you

may be entitled to some refund for your surgery from Medicare and in some cases

your health fund. To have your breast lift  classified as medical there are certain

criteria you must meet which are  set by the Health Insurance Commission.

One of the current criteria for medical classification is that your youngest child

must be under 7  years.  

For more information regarding breast lift or other procedures call

The Layt Clinic on  55974100

Considering a Breast Lift? timing can save you moneyUltraceuticals unveils its ACE. ACE Skincare

System combines high levels of potent scientifically proven key ingredients: pure Vitamins A & C, AHA & BHA to effectively address major skin concerns whilst dramatically improving skins’ overall texture, clarity and radiance.

Dry/Normal Pack: Ultra A Facial Cream 25ml, Ultra C Firming Serum for Normal to Dry Skin 25ml, Even Skintone Serum 30ml and luxury cosmetic bag. $169 RRP, valued at $251.

Oily/Normal Pack: Ultra A Sheer Facial Cream 25ml, Ultra C Firming Serum for Normal to Oily Skin 25ml, Even Skintone Serum 30ml and luxury cosmetic bag. $169 RRP, valued at $251.

There is a full range of treatments that work in tandem with products to produce enviable results.

UltraSonophoresis: Low frequency sound waves are used to enhance the absorption of Ultraceuticals products to help skin appear more healthy and youthful. The benefits are visible: hydration and skin suppleness; skin tone, texture and overall clarity; a softening of the appearance of pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles.

Microdermabrasion: Gently and effectively abrades the skin leaving it smoother, softer and revitalised. The results are a smoother, clearer complexion, improvement in the overall appearance of the skin tone and more effective product absorption.

The Ultraceuticals range, Microdermabrasian and UltraSonophoresis packages are available at Blush Beauty Salons.

More at www.blushbeautysalons.com.au

Cool Workout Trickneed TO EXErCIsE? DOn’t sWeaT iT!File this one under weird but true: keeping your hands cool while exercising can reduce the discomfort of overheating and sweating so you work out longer.

That finding comes from a new study in the journal Circulation by Stacy T. Sims, PhD, a research scientist and exercise physiologist at Stanford University School of Medicine in the US. She recruited a group of 24 obese, yet healthy, women ages 30 to 45 to test the idea that cooling their hands might help them exercise longer - a practice already used by some professional athletes.

Dr Sims enlisted obese women since they tend to give up exercise easily due to sweating, fatigue, exhaustion, and overheating. Fat acts as an insulator, which is why overweight people tend to overheat when they exert themselves.

Sims divided the women into two groups. One held a device that ran cool water (60.8 degrees F) through it, while the second group’s device had water at body temperature (98.6 F) running through it. The women then attended three exercise sessions a week for 12 weeks. The workouts included a mix of strength training and aerobic exercise.

More at www.realage.com

44 | Coast Kids GC

So you think you are pretty good with heights hey! The thought of walking around the roof of a tall building doesn’t worry you, does it! Well how about when that roof happens to be perched 270 meters skyward from terra firma?

A new attraction has opened on the Coast and for once the kids, gamblers, grey nomads and bar flies aren’t the beneficiaries. All you adventurous types out there will love the thrill of Australia’s highest external building climb right on the beach side at Q1.

The observation deck has recently been tweaked, now called the Skypoint Observation Deck, it has a revamped kitchen and holds special events most weekends for the adults. It obviously has they same great view and location but what is really is exciting is the addition of a new staircase!

What makes this staircase rather exciting is that it starts at a side door at the 77th floor and follows the curve of the tower all the way to about half way up almost 100 meter high iconic spire and then back down the other side. Around three hundred step in all I am told will get you to the highest beachside location on the Gold coast and then back down to the comfort of the Observation deck.

The team at Skypoint are great and this one attraction you don’t want to miss. The safety systems and professionalism of the team at Skypoint will put your mind at ease. You are provided with all clothing (lovely prison grey overalls and matching hat), safety harness and even photo’s are taken care of by your walk leader.

You will need to wear closed toed, rubber soled shoes, remove any loose items that could fall and pass a breathalyser test.

Once up to the Observation deck you are led to an enclosed glass fishbowl where you will be attached to the, thankfully, very solid looking safety rail. The external door to the staircase is then opened and the team leader instructs the first guinea pig to head out onto the stairs.

What should follow is an awesome experience where you will be literally be treated to a bird’s eye view of the best city in Australia. At the summit

you can take your time to enjoy the view and have you photo taken. For the really brave you can lean out from a section of the viewing platform that has no hand rail, with just your safety line keeping you up it is quite a buzz.

I would thoroughly recommend the Skypoint climb. If you have a acute fear of heights I would thinks twice, the website says that the guides know how to handle people with height phobias but there is no way to sugar coat how high the climb is.

This is one thrill you won’t forget. www.skypoint.com.au

On top of the worldneWs, infO, Tips, GAdgeTs And Much MOrE.

Words: luke o’connor

All about him...

Coast Kids GC | 45

After a wildly successful inaugural national event in 2011, Garage Sale Trail is back in 2012, and this year, it’s bigger and better than ever.

Taking place 5 May around the country, the Garage Sale Trail welcomes everybody from households, local businesses, cultural institutions, charities, schools, libraries and community groups to participate in the biggest real-world, community-based market-place in Australia.

“We learned from last year’s program that Garage Sale Trail isn’t just about households getting involved,” says Co-Founder, Andrew Valder. “It’s perfect for anyone who wants to make some money, raise money for a cause and make positive community connections. It’s all about discovery and sustainability; discovering pre-loved and hand-made goods, discovering and connecting with locals in your local area and of course keeping a whole load of stuff out of landfill.

You don’t even need a garage! Just host a sale with friends, neighbours or community group. Buying something second-hand instead of a new product saves you money, saves natural resources and reduces the amount of rubbish going to landfill.

A program that was initially aimed at households, Garage Sale Trail 2011 was adopted by a range of organizations and groups including cultural institutions, local businesses, makers and creators, community groups and charities as they made their own interpretation of what garage sales are all about.

By registering sales at www.garagesaletrail.com.au participants can list items for sale have their sale details included in all Garage Sale Trail marketing and be eligible to receive a registration pack (for

those within participating council areas). To make it easy for buyers and sellers to connect and sell on the day, there are two major technology developments with Garage Sale Trail 2012.

Consumer review and business directory site, TrueLocal.com.au has partnered with Garage Sale Trail providing the location of on-the-day sales onto its mobile site making it easier for shoppers with smartphones to navigate the day. Shoppers type m.truelocal.com.au into their smartphone browser to access a map and garage sale

trail locations.”

To make cashless payments easy on the day, secure payments innovator PayPal, is supporting the Garage Sale Trail community by encouraging sellers and buyers to make payments via their mobile phones, eliminating the need for cash.

More information at www.garagesale.trail.com.au

hIt the gAragE sAle trail Sustainable, economical, fun!

Top Tips for Healthy Teethoral Health therapist, emma slaughter

• If you serve fruit juice, dilute it

• Serve water instead of juice

• Avoid acidic drinks like colas, sports drinks, energy drinks, fizzy drinks and juice – they erode enamel

• Opt for healthy snacks like fruit and nuts over lollies and sugary snacks

• Clean teeth at twice a day for at least 2 minutes

• If they are going to have sugary foods, limit it to meal times, washed down with water - Don’t feed on sugary snacks throughout the day

• Don’t dip dummies in honey or sweetened substances

• Don’t clean dummy with your own saliva – you transfer adult bacteria and babies don’t have bacteria in their mouths

• Bottles for a bed should be limited to water

• Try and discourage thumb sucking – it does push teeth forward and mis-align teeth

• Encourage removing the dummy and speaking or sounding out instead of moaning or pointing while a dummy in your child’s mouth

More at www.allsmilesdetalcentre.com.au

Sky News anchor, 2ue broadcaster and columnist for the Daily Telegraph and www.thehoopla.com.au

1. Don’t arrive at any garage sale before 6am

2. Haggle – this is the only way to ensure you get the best deal.

3. Use word of mouth to promote your garage sale – the local newspaper and social media are the best, most effective ways to this

4. if you are hosting the sale – be friendly. if people feel welcome, they will be more inclined to buy from you!

5. Keep your sale neat – no one wants to look through piles and piles of stuff – hang your clothes neatly, stack your books nicely and keep everything

traCEY spiceR’s TOP 5 GaragE

sAlE tIPs

46 | Coast Kids GC

BusinEssTell us about your business/current role?I am the owner and designer of “Lee Kochner”, a label creating Island inspired clothing for boys and I have recently expanded the range to include men’s and women’s styles also. www.leekochner.com

What time does a typical day start for you?Everyone begins to rise from 5:30 when my husband’s alarm goes off. With three little boys we need those hours to get organised to leave the house by 9am!

Do you have help around the house?No outside help, it’s a team effort to keep the household running.

Who does the cooking and cleaning at your house?I do most of the cooking and cleaning but on the weekends my husband often cooks. I really appreciate the break and he is a great cook!

If you have 10 minutes to yourself – what do you do?I really appreciate the simple things now. I am happy to sit and enjoy a hot coffee and read a magazine uninterrupted (even if it is only for 10 minutes)

KIDsWhat do you do for childcare?Our almost four year old twins go to kindy two days a week, and our youngest still stays at home with me although my Mum is a big help and will often look after him if I need to work.

Do your kids do many extra curricular activities?The boys have been enjoying swimming lessons but mostly they are happy to go to a local park or beach. They are lucky to have each other to play with and are never bored.

What do you do for fun with the kids?Kurt and I have always been keen surfers and we are now introducing surfing to our children. They all have a natural attraction to the ocean and are really enjoying learning to surf. We hope that this will be something we can enjoy as a family as the boys grow.

funWhat is your favourite thing to do for date night with your partner?Dinner and a movie is always fun. We have enjoyed

dinner on the veranda of the Burleigh surf club this summer. It is a beautiful spot to sit on a balmy summer evening in the moonlight.

What is your favourite Gold Coast place to hang with the family?We really love the beaches and the beachfront parks. Riding bikes and skateboards along the paths has been a big hit.

How about favourite place to eat out as a family?The Hogs Breath Café is our favourite. It is family friendly and they have restaurants in all our favourite spots, Byron Bay, Coolangatta and Broadbeach.

gIRl stuFFWhere do you head to when you get time for a girls night out?Dinner at Justin Lane in Burleigh has been a recent favourite. They have the best pizza on the coast!

Who do you relate most to on Sex and the City?I am probably a combination of Charlotte and Miranda. I love being a wife and Mum but I am still motivated to build my career and business.

What is your best beauty tip for mums?Sleep! It’s hard to come by but makes a world of difference when you get it!

Favourite place to shop?I love the little independent surf shops, Lame Boardstore on Currumbin beachfront is particularly good and they stock my “Lee Kochner” range too! I am also a keen op shopper and love to dig up treasures in my favourite local Salvos store!

Mamas that Rock!

KeelEY o’COnnoR intErviEWs lee KOchnEr OF island inspiRed tHrEAds

Mamas that rock

Coast Kids GC | 47

Fantasy Husband… that celebrity dream man?

I would have to say Mathew McConaughey or

Pierce Brosnan. Not sure I’d marry them though!

tIPsMust have parenting tip or tool?

Patience and negotiating skills. Lots of energy

helps too. I find the busier I can keep the boys, the

happier they are. Movies are great for giving us all

a bit of a break!

Can you share any tips on the finding the right balance and that juggling act?

My family is my priority, anything else I fit in around

them. I do a lot of my work when they go to bed.

It’s a long day but it works for the family as a whole.

How do you stay motivated?

I thrive on a challenge. I love to be busy and to

set and achieve goals for myself. The greatest

reward for my hard work is seeing people on the

street wearing my designs and receiving positive

feedback from my customers.

48 | Coast Kids GC

KindyROO & BabyROO

Infants (8wks to 12mths)

Toddlers (1-3yrs)

Preschoolers (3-5yrs)

45 min x 9 week sessions

Come & Learn through Play!Discovery & Playtime in the Gym, on large equipment for

gross motor skills & small equipment for fine motor skills,

balance/vestibular, music & movement & parachute at

mat time.

Literacy, phonics, numeracy, art/craft &

school readiness for 3-5 yrs

KindyROO is an established research-based

educational Australian program for children

between 8wks & 5yrs of age.

KindyROO is designed & taught by

professionally qualified instructors.

Enrol for remainder of term or enrol for TErm 3

HElEnsvAlE mon, Tues & Fri sessions

robInA mon & Thurs sessions at

Casey Hall Clear Island Waters

Helensvale or robina 0411 109 853

check out our website for details

www.kindyroogoldcoast.com

email: goldcoast@kindyroo.com.au Ph: 5503 0937

Art PROjECTs With Mrs RedWords: Jane Whittred

Having a Birthday two days after Christmas left me always wanting to celebrate more. So, now that I’m a mum, when Mother’s Day rolls around, I make the most of it and pull out every excuse in the book that it is a VERY special day and it is truly all about ME!

This month’s project is a cheap, easy and very sentimental Mother’s Day present for all of us mums, including our own.

I obviously have paint at my disposal and most households have the basic colours of acrylic paint in tubes. Head down to the local garden nursery, buy some cheap terra cotta pots and your choice of flower or vegetable to plant in the pots plus a bag of potting mix. This can all be bought for $10 to $20 depending on how many pots and plants you purchase.

acrylic paintsMedium size paint brushesterra cotta potsplants/veggies that live in potspotting mixsealer – spray can is best

MAtERiAls YOu will nEed

Art projects

Coast Kids GC | 49

Please visit www.mrsredsartroom.com.au for adult, teen and children’s art workshops, birthday parties and events.

• YouactuallyDON’Tneedtopayaupair’s (upto4hrsadaycomesfree)• Theyarepersonallyscreenedbyusandneedtomeet strictcriteria• Theyarechosenfrompolite,childawarebackgrounds andcultures• Theyoffergreatopportunitiesforyouandyourchildren toexperienceforeigncultures•Allyouneedtoofferisaroomand3mealsaday

You want a nanny... but what you really need is an Au Pair.Anannywouldbeawonderfulluxury,butanaupaircouldbemorepracticalandaccessible.

a u p a i r - n a n n y - h o u s e k e e p e r a c c o m m o d a t i o nAuPairHouse

Goon-whatareyouwaitingfor?Onecallisallittakestogetbacksometimeyoudeserve?

(07) 5520 4442aupairhouse.com.au

hOW to… Set the paints out on a plate, lid of plastic container or paint palette. So kids can mix their own colours easily, it’s best not to put paints into individual pots, rather an open surface. Let them go crazy, painting all over their pots (painting inside the pot actually helps retain moisture). Once dry, it is best to spray the outside area with a sealer just so the paint doesn’t wash away when wet. You can buy these sealers from hardware stores. They don’t cost much and can be used for many future projects. Then gets the kids to plant their potted colour or veggie plants in their painted pots and the pots can be admired for years to come.

dID YOU KnoW…Anna Jarvis (1864–1938, USA) was the founder of Mother’s Day, a day she dedicated her life to, as being recognised to celebrate motherhood, although she never became a mother herself. The day was recognised by wearing a white carnation for a deceased mother and a red carnation for a living mother.

“BIoloGy is THE least OF whAt Makes sOMEone a MOTHeR” - opRAH wInfREy

Art projects

50 | Coast Kids GC

Coast Kids GC Directory

Jumping Castles and other Fun stuFF

Free delivery Coomera -

Coolangatta

ph: 1300 152 132

mRs Red’sArt ROomAdults, teens, P-7, toddlers!Classes, parties & events all at GC’s only arts precinct!Art shop & pre-prep classes starting soon.

mrsredsartroom.com.au0412 026207

Shed 4 (Rabbit + Cocoon) 23 Hillcrest Pde, Miami

.... a creative space

No Need to Suffer From Unsightly Veins!

See Dr Atia, Veins Specialist

Endovenous, KTP Laser & Advanced Ultrasound Sclerotherapy*

Consults Bulk Billed

BURLEIGH HEADSStockland Ph: 5535 5170

www.aliveclinics.com.au

Before After

CK

Is your child having difficulties with school work?

Does your child lack confidence in their abilities?

One on one, personalised, home tuition for Pre-Prep, Primary and

Secondary students.

Inspiring and creating confident, competent and happy learners.

Phone 0410 531 710

www.freemind.com.au

Personalised handmade pillows for kids

shellascushies@hotmail.comPh: 0429 337 371

Shella’s Cushies

Pillows only $25

Mondays from 9am - 1pmwith qualified chef Emma18mths - 5yrsDifferent recipes every weekcall Emma 0406 609 658www.ristorantelacantina.com.au163 Surf Parade, Broadbeachbookings essential

Cooking Classes (for toddlers)

“Toddlers learning about food and nutrition

whilst having fun”

Arrow Insurance Consultant Services Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative of Millennium3

Financial Services Pty Ltd ABN 61 094 529 987 AFSL No. 244252.

Freecall 1800 731 328PO Box 652,

Mudgeeraba QLD 4213Ph: (07) 5530 3500 Fax:(07) 5569 0805

Email: info@arrowinsurance.com.au

Sweet Melissa’s

Cakes & CupCakes

Yummy & Creative

For all Occasions

www.facebook.com/coastsbestcakes

Gold Coastphone: 0416 175 337

www.sweetmelissascakes.com.au

Where learning’s a ball!

Approved soccer training for kids aged 18 months to 7 years

Southport, Pacific Pines, Carrara, Burleigh & Currumbin!Call for your free trial now!

0457 602 219goldcoast@littlekickers.com.au

www.littlekickers.com.au

Kayden Doe Photographybabies kids families special

events

www.kaydendoephotography.com.au

packages from $250

The BesT in ParTy enTerTainmenT JusT GoT BeTTer…

amazinG ParTies for aLL aGes

Junior Disco ParTiesface PainTinG ParTies

many DifferenT Themes

www.djelektra.com.auPh 0401 399 00o

The biggesT range of prelovedbaby & Kids goods under one roof

Join us for a fun-filled morning of shopping!

sunday 3rd June, 9am-12pmCarrara Indoor Stadium, Nerang-Broadbeach Rd

www.babykidsmarket.com.auTel: 1300 55 44 76

EYELID {BLEPHAROPLASTY}

Do your eyes make you look older thanyou are? Book a free consultation to findout about this easy walk in, walk outtreatment today

Burleigh Heads Stockland Ph: 5535 5170

SURGERY

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www.aliveclinics.com.au

Cosmetic Surgery, Beauty & General Health

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Date claimer

Childrens Health & Wellbeing Expo

Sunday 29 July 10am to 3pm Varsity Lakes Sports &Arts Centre, Central Park Drive

Great opportunity for children to get involved in fun interactive activities while parents and care givers get the latest tips on how to have a happy and healthy family.

www.CHWExpo.com.au

Free

Win a Wii

Register for your chance to win. Great way to be kept informed about the Expo! Visit www.CHWExpo.com.au to register

Behavioural Optometry& vision Therapy Clinic

Ph: 5520 5900www.harmonyvisioncare.com.au

Coast Kids GC | 51

chic inspired unique Gold Coast’s designer market showcasing unique,

boutique products and services for hip and stylish families!

NOT JUST A MARKET BUT AN EVENTFree Children’s Entertainment, Local Retailers, Gourmet Food,

Fun Family Friendly Atmosphere, FREE entry and parking & much more

Long and the Shortwww.longandtheshort.com.au

Grommet Designswww.grommetdesigns.com

Dacy Maternitywww.dacymaternity.com.au

The Navig8 Groupwww.navig8.biz/gabby7

Music with Monicawww.musicwithmonica.com

Pure INcahttp://pureinca.com

Kingston BlueKingstonblue.com

The Gift Post www.thegiftpost.com.au

Saturday 9 June l 2pm-6pm l Saturday 6 October l 3pm-7pm Off Masthead Way Sanctuary Cove

Please see website for additional upcoming Gold Coast locations and dates. Markets also run in Brisbane & Toowoomba, for more information visit www.themummytreemarkets.com.au

www.themummytreemarkets.com.au/goldcoast

SPonSorS: Gold Coast Gymnastics Club www.goldcoastgymnastics.com l Boomerangs Play Centre www.boomerangsplaycentre.com.au l Curves Gym www.curves.com.auMarkeT ParTner: Mandy from Grommet Designs l www.grommetdesigns.com MarkeT PhoToGraPhy: Jade from Forever after Photography l www.foreverafterphotography.com.au

Bungalow 12http://www.facebook.com/pages/ Bungalow-12/198730223557530

52 | Coast Kids GC