Kids on the coast

Got a new baby? You could be taking part in a ground-breaking research study to test a new ‘Sing, Soothe, and Sleep’ instructional DVD, and at the same time learn how to use music to cope better with motherhood, improve bonding, and – you’ll like this bit – get more rest! Developed by University of Queensland researchers, the Sing, Soothe, and Sleep program teaches a range of easy lullaby techniques to match your baby’s emotional state and calm them more quickly. Researchers are looking for first time mothers of babies six weeks and older to participate in a six week trial (two phases of three weeks each). You’ll need to complete a diary and do two telephone interviews with the project researchers. Interested? Call or text 0457 146 552 or email singingmums@uq.edu.au  Read more

Queensland doctors are warning parents to be extra vigilant this summer, the peak period for kids to be rushed to hospital after accidentally swallowing dangerous objects, including batteries, magnets, and fishing line sinkers. On average, between two or three children are rushed to Queensland Health emergency departments every day after having accidentally swallowed foreign objects. Particularly hazardous are the bright, shiny, button-shaped lithium batteries found in many Christmas toys and electronic devices. Last year, one-year-old Hunter Cheshire was lucky to survive after his windpipe and throat were partially eaten away by acid in the battery he accidentally swallowed. Read more

In a state-wide survey of over 450 business owners and staff by a local Sunshine Coast mum and business owner Vickie Johnson, an overwhelming 86% of respondents said Queensland was the best place in the country to live and work. Of those not originally from Queensland, most said it was our climate (31.8%) or lifestyle (36.1%) that brought them here. For more survey results, call O3 Office on 1300 014 000.  Read more

If previous trends are anything to go by, Royal Wedding fever will see Kate soar in popularity as a name for baby girls this year, according to new research. Aussie family history website Ancestry.com.au looked at 230 million birth and marriage records dating from 1837, and found that the names Victoria, Elizabeth, and Diana all enjoyed huge increases in popularity in the years corresponding to the weddings of British royals of the same name. With Kate Middleton set to marry Prince William, and Kate and its variations already popular, Prep classrooms look like being full of Kates in 2016!  Read more

For the third consecutive year, Immanuel Lutheran College has emerged a winner at the 2010 ATOM Film Festival, which attracts entries from high schools, universities, government departments and film companies. The College’s Year 9 student Alistair Welsh won the Best Middle School Animation category for his film, Hindsight, a historical animation about the extinction of the Tasmanian tiger. Film, Television and New Media Teacher, Mrs Sue Hope, won the 2010 Teacher’s Award.  Read more

Local children’s charity Sunnykids’ program ‘Supporting Children in Primary Schools’ (SCIPS) helps students experiencing social and emotional barriers to their education. SCIPS connects families with relevant community resources and professional advice. The initial trial in Maroochydore State School attracted local and national attention, and won $100,000 through the inaugural School’s First Awards which, along with donations, has enabled SCIPS to roll out its program to nine other schools on the Sunshine Coast. Read more

The titles of Queensland’s healthiest community, school and workplace are up for grabs as part of the 2010 Healthy Queensland Awards. This initiative helps Queenslanders be more active, make healthier food choices, achieve and maintain a healthy weight, be smoke free and encourages responsible drinking. Cash prizes are on offer. For more information, entry forms and guidelines visit www.kabq.org.au. Applications close December 15. Read more

The tuckshop at Peregian’s St Andrew’s Anglican College has recently been awarded Nutrition Australia’s coveted Gold Pyramid Award for its healthy options menu, which is proving a hit with parents and students. St Andrew’s is the first school in Australia to receive this award in 2010 and is credit to the hard work of canteen manager, Australian triathlete and Grade 4 parent, Dmitri Simons. Read more