Newsletter Aug-Sept 2012 - Parents Centres New Zealand Inc

inside this issue: 

Committee report 1 

Auckland centre news 2 

New arrivals 4 

CAPC parenting classes 6 

Community support 8 

Support services 10 

Postnatal support group 10 

Magic Moments 11 

Come and be part of 

our committee 12 

Member Discount Scheme 14 

Annual Report 16 

CAPC Lending Library 21 

A week in the life of Harrison Young 22 

High Energy Play 24 

Deciding to return to work 25 

What paid and unpaid leave is 

available and when does it start 26 

What are my options when 

parental leave ends? 28 

Becoming a stay at home Dad 28 

Going back to work 30 

Snow Report 32 

Changing the face of 

maternity care 34 

CAPC top tips 35 

In the kitchen 36 

Contact us 37

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Committee Report 

Father’s Day this year falls on Sunday 2nd 

September, so time to get planning as to what you 

might do. For many of you this may be your first 

father’s day as a family. 

Some lucky Grandfathers may be getting a 

Father’s Day gift of gorgeous photographs of 

their grandchildren thanks to the recent Fotoman 

fundraiser CAPC ran in late July. Thank you to all 

the volunteers and families who took part on the 

day and a BIG thank you to Cheryl our Events 

Coordinator for organising the photo shoot. 

For an interesting look at attitudes to Stay at Home 

Dads see the article on page 28. 

Not so many years ago fathers were not allowed to 

be present at the birth of their child. One of Parents 

Centres greatest achievements is the vital part our 

organisation played in attaining the widespread 

acceptance that fathers have the right to be at the 

birth of their baby and that they can play a vital 

part in supporting women in labour. 

We can all be thankful that fathers play the big role 

they now do in baby’s life, and that things have 

changed so much since our parents were children 

and even when we were children ourselves. 

Fathers today take on much more responsibility for 

caring for baby and share work around the house, 

all of which means our dads are very much worth 

celebrating!! 

In this issue we also publish the Central Auckland 

Parents Centre annual report to March 2012. What 

a busy year we’ve had! We look forward to having 

another great year and continuing to offer you our 

comprehensive range of childbirth and parenting 

classes and parent support services. 

If you would like to become involved with the 

amazing team of parents who volunteer their time 

to run CAPC‘s courses and services, have a look at 

the volunteer vacancies on page 12. 

Debbie Booth 

CAPC Treasurer 

Childcare From Home 

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CENTRAL AUCKLAND PARENTS CENTRE 1

AUCKLAND CENTRE NEWS 

Committee Farewell 

A very special thank you from the committee to 

Miranda Young for all her input, commitment and 

enthusiasm. She will be greatly missed! We wish 

you well with your studies Miranda. 

We always have vacancies to fill. Please take a 

look at them on page 12 and consider joining us in 

bringing the excellent range of Parents Centre services 

to Auckland parents. 

If you think you would like to join our amazing 

team please do contact Diana on ph.638-3990 or 

email capc.volunteering@gmail.com. 

Cover Photo 

Our cover photo is Sebastian Melton, the 

handsome son of Rebecca, our Advertising 

Coordinator. He is aged 4 1/2 and was 

attending his Godparents wedding when 

this photo was taken. 

Would you like to see your cherub 

on the cover of our newsletter? 

Send your hi-resolution portrait photo to 

capc.newslettereditor@gmail.com. 

Find and “Like” 

“Central Auckland Parents Centre” 

on Facebook and stay up to date with all 

our latest news and events, plus lots of 

parenting and other interesting tid-bits. 

Committee Meetings 

Our committee meetings are held 

on the second Monday of the 

month at 7.30pm. 

If you would like to join us please email 

us at capc.volunteering@gmail.com for 

further information. 

Grants acknowledgment 

Central Auckland Parents Centre would like to say 

a big ‘Thank you’ to the following organisation for 

their generous support. Their generosity assists 

CAPC to continue to offer relevant courses with 

up to date resources. 

ASB Community Trust A grant of $3,830 was 

received to contribute to the cost of running our 

Parent Education programme for 12 months. 

TENS machine hire 

A TENS machine can help reduce your pain 

during labour and childbirth. 

We have seven TENS machines available for hire 

by our members. You can make a booking for the 

two weeks prior to your due date until two weeks 

post. All machines are hired with new pads. 

Please supply your own 9 volt batteries. 

Cost: $50.00 plus $50.00 bond. Your bond will be 

refunded within 7 working days. 

You are responsible for collecting and returning 

the TENS machine. We appreciate that early days 

with your baby are busy, but as others are waiting 

to hire the machine, we ask that you return it as 

promptly as possible. 

To Book: Contact Christy (Lending Coordinator) 

Phone: 525 5541, 

Email: capc.lending@gmail.com 

New World Baby Club 

Free to join 

There are lots of reasons to join the New Babies 

Club. Members get exclusive discount coupons and 

Fly Buys Bonus Points on family essentials at New 

World supermarkets nationwide … great competitions, 

a nutritionist to answer your questions, a 

blog with mutterings from a new mother and loads 

more! 

If your’re not a member of the New World Baby 

Club yet click on http://www.newworldbabiesclub. 

co.nz/user/register - it’s free and available wherever 

you live in New Zealand. Remember to tick 

the box to sign up for their emails as that’s how 

they send you discounts, tell you about competitions 

and let you know about the latest articles and 

recipes. 

2 

CENTRAL AUCKLAND PARENTS CENTRE


Sausage Sizzle 

We recently held a very successful Sausage Sizzle 

at Mega Mitre 10 - Lunn Avenue. Thank you to all 

volunteers who volunteered not only themselves 

but their partners as well for the weekend. 

We have tentatively booked another Sausage Sizzle 

for November 17/18 and again will be needing volunteers 

members to help man the BBQ. If you can 

help please email cherylg123@hotmail.com 

Congratulations 

Congratulations Tracey, David and Flynn. Our 

Venue and Products Coordinator recently gave 

birth to her second child Maddison Rogers. 

Maddison weighed 2.4kg and was 44cm long. 

All is going well and she is very cruisy. 

Need Labels? 

Need labels for your little one’s things? Go to 

www.stuckonyou.biz and type Central Auckland 

Parents Centre into the referral field when you 

make your purchase. CAPC will receive up to 20% 

of your purchase price. 

Could you be a 

Childbirth Educator? 

Parents Centre’s Diploma of Childbirth Education 

(in conjunction with Aoraki Polytechnic, Timaru) 

trains those wishing to teach Childbirth Education 

classes and support women during birth. 

This two-year home study course includes correspondence 

assignments, workshops and attending 

births. The programme trains you to become 

a childbirth educator and to teach prenatal 

classes to expectant parents in a wide variety of 

settings. Completion of all modules means that 

you will be able to work as a childbirth educator. 

Central Auckland Parents Centre can offer 

trainee childbirth educators classes to meet the 

observation requirements of the course, assist 

with workshop attendance costs and evening 

classes to teach on the completion of the course. 

Course Enrolment and Information: For information 

about the Diploma In Childbirth Education 

course visit http://www.aoraki.ac.nz/courses/ 

distance-learning/diploma-childbirth-edu/ 

Did you know? 

That Parents Centres run 

parenting programmes in 

19 of New Zealand’s 

prisons? We aim to give 

prisoners the tools that 

they need to become 

effective parents and 

break what is often a cycle 

of inter-generational poor 

parenting habits. 



New Arrivals 

AN4/12 CBE: Nikki Power Course Host: Rosalind Webster 

Name of Parents Name of Baby Date of Birth 

Megan Hall and Tahua O'Leary Aine Mia Patricia Hall O'Leary 9 February 2012 

Jenny and Warren Eaton Kaia Lucy Eaton 3 March 2012 

Kelly Johnston and Judd McLauchlan Max Angus McLauchlan 14 February 2012 

Katie Sandilands and Blair Smith Pippa Julie Smith 18 March 2012 

Renee and Steve Old Annabel Rae Old 2 March 2012 

Amy-Kate and Saul Snowsie Asher Alexander Snowise 7 March 2012 

Lara and Henk Smith Jacob Smith 3 March 2012 

Hannah and Sam Forde Leo Manawanui Grayson Forde 2 March 2012 

Lauren Huke and Jerome Cookson Kelsey Elizabeth Cookson 8 February 2012 

Julia Kinnell and Glenn Jones Ruby Tayler Jones 12 March 2012 

Sarah and Shaun McGivern Darcy Shaun McGivern 16 March 2012 

Kathryn and Clayton Hollis Mykah Hollis 2 April 2012 

Kari Adams and Gareth Kayes Nina Merran Kayes 15 April 2012 

AN5/12 CBE:Cheryl Tinholt Course Host: Fiona Gardiner 


Camelia and Wade Taylor Gabrielle 30 April 2012 

Nicola Hawke and Andrew Brown Eva Poppy 4 May 2012 

Rose Harris and Chris Denne Isla Denne 6 May 2012 

Rebecca and Peter Dooley 

Paige Louise 

Daisy Sherwood and Scotty Blyth Evie Florence 2 June 2012 

Kyla Bendall and Joel Glass Tobin Spencer Bendall-Glass 2 June 2012 

Czarevna Santos-Ramos and East Ramos Maria Zara 6 June 2012 

Amy Wu and Alex Webb William Anthony 21 June 2012 

Sonya and Dan Wilkinson Max Leo Henry 21 June 2012 

Bernadette and Richard Nelson Jacob Scott 2 June 2012 

Danielle Morrison and Pete Buxton Oliver Henry 11 July 2012 

Pip and Wayne Simeon Max Edward James 22 May 2012 

Jo and George Cumberland Ellie 

4 


New Arrivals 

AN6/12 CBE: Melanie Benge Course Host: Alexandra Noble-Beasley 



Andrea Stewart and Geoff Bell Lucas John Bell 13 June 2012 

Linda Harvey Fitzgerald 

Jackson James Gilbert-Smith 2 June 2012 

and Aaron Gilbert-Smith 

Jean Wang and Wayne Cheong Thomas Cheong 23 June 2012 

Maggie Ma and Danny Ren Joanna Ren 12 June 2012 

Kat and Andre Omundsen Mila Rose Omundsen 19 May 2012 

Stephanie and Bruce Grantham Nathan Paul Grantham 14 June 2012 

Zoe Aldam and Darren Horsman Louis George Horsman 2 July 2012 

Abby Harris-Jones and Simon Jones Carter Aston Jones 27 May 2012 

Rogan and Edd James Bailey Elizabeth James 26 June 2012 

Andrea and Michael Sherrock Ashton Kyle Sherrock 16 June 2012 

Kate and Tim Carter Hudson Peter William Carter 14 June 2012 

Jo Walker and Aron Pond Ben Alexander Pond 14 May 2012 

Host: Alexandra Noble-Beasley Connor William Noble-Beasley 12 June 2012 

Best Beginning for Bubs 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

09 360 0280 | 3/29 Surrey Crescent | Grey Lynn | www.facebook.com/simplychiropracticnz 


PARENT EDUCATION 

CAPC Parenting Classes 

Baby and You 

A morning course run over 5 weeks for parents of 

babies up to four months old. Covers feeding and 

sleeping, baby massage, postnatal exercises, postnatal 

depression, CPR, first aid and child development. 

The start dates for our next courses are: 23 August, 

11 September, 16 October, 8 November. 

Course costs: $60 CAPC Member, $75 Non Member. 

These courses fill very quickly so contact Caroline 

on 845 0020 or capc.babyandyou.coordinator@ 

gmail.com to reserve a space. 

Moving and Munching 

Targeted at parents of 4-8 month olds, over two 

mornings this course discusses introducing solids, 

baby development and baby safety with a free 

baby recipe book for all attendees. 

The start dates for our next courses are 30 August, 

27 September, 25 October, 13 December. 

Course costs: $35 CAPC Member - single, $40 CAPC 

Member - couple, $45 Non Member - single, $55 

Non Member - couple. 

For more information or to book, contact 

Maree by phone - 636 5045 or email capc.bookings@gmail.com. 

Tinies to Tots 

A two session course aimed at parents of children 

9-18 months. The course will cover fitting first 

shoes, caring for first teeth and preventing tooth 

decay, learning/development/safety and play, 

sleep requirements for older babies’ and nutrition 

and behavioural habits towards eating. 

The start date for our next course is 12 September. 


Member- couple, $50 Non Member - single, $55 


For more information and bookings, contact 


Parenting with Purpose 

This course has been created to encourage parents/caregivers 

and key support people to look at 

how they parent, where they learnt their parenting 

skills and are they the most productive skills 

to use when raising children. It is a six week, two 

hour, evening course and all participants receive a 

workbook. 

The next course will be in 2013. 

Course costs: $75 CAPC Member- single, $85 CAPC 



For more information or to register your interest 

contact Maree by phone - 636 5045 or email capc. 

bookings@gmail.com. 

Magic Moments 

This course focuses on using non-physical ways of 

discipline, and encourages parents and caregivers 

to build strong and caring relationships with their 

children, whilst giving clear boundaries. It is a three 

week, two hour, evening course and all participants 

receive a workbook. 

The start date for our next course is: 19 September. 




For more information or to book, contact 


A Mother’s Love 

Your arms were always open when I needed 

a hug. Your heart understood when I needed 

a friend. Your gentle eyes were stern when I 

needed a lesson. Your strength and love has 

guided me and gave me wings to fly. 

Sarah Malin 

6 


Snuggle up 

warm in a 

PORSE home 

this winter! 

Common childhood illnesses reduce significantly when 

cared for by one person and a small group of friends. 

Choose your own PORSE Nanny or Home Educator to give your child 

the best start in life. 

Call us today to discuss your childcare options. 

Onehunga Ph 634 3328 

Grey Lynn Ph 376 3724 

www.PORSE.co.nz

Community Support 

Preparation for 

Breastfeeding 

Venue: BIRTHCARE - 20 Titoki Street, Parnell, 

Education Room, Level 1 

10.30am - 12.30pm Tuesday once a month, $30.00 

• Care of you and your breasts before and after 

pregnancy 

• Getting off to a good start 

• How to avoid and manage common problems 

• Expressing and storage of breastmilk 

• Introducing solids and weaning 

• Where to get support and help 

Karitane Cribtalk TM 

First Thursday of every month 9.00am - 3.00pm 

1 Wallingford Street, Grey Lynn 

Telephone 575 7174 

Free coffee and free advice. 

Karitane Nurses and Nannies Bureau invite you to 

Karitane Cribtalk TM - an informal gathering for new 

parents. Karitane Cribtalk TM will be casual and relaxed 

and is as much about gaining valuable advice 

from an experienced Karitane Nurse as it is about 

meeting other new families. 

Plunket Family Centre 

309 Sandringham Road, Sandringham 

Phone 849 5027. Please call for an appointment. 

Open hours are: Mon - Thurs 8.45am - 3.30pm 

Staffed by Plunket nurses, community karitane, 

Plunket kaiāwhina and volunteers, the Family centre 

offers support and information on different parenting 

issues. These include breastfeeding, infant 

nutrition, sleeping, child behaviour and parent/ 

family needs. 

Fresh Perspective 

www.freshperspective.org.nz 

Freephone 0800 555 300 

Everybody needs a little help at some time in their 

lives. This is especially true for parents and caregivers 

raising young families. Whether it is learning 

about managing a child’s behaviour and providing 

boundaries, feeding your family well on your weekly 

budget, managing challenging family situations, 

connecting with others in your community or just 

needing someone to talk too. 

Space 

Email: space@aucklandplaycentres.org.nz 

Phone: 815 0866 

The SPACE programme is for (mainly) first time 

parents with newborn babies. Sessions run weekly 

at a Playcentre or suitable community venue, for 

3-4 terms extending through the first year of the 

child’s life. 

Parent Aid 

Central West Auckland - Avondale, Point Chevalier, 

Blockhouse Bay, Hillsborough, Lynfield, Waikowhai, 

Mt Roskill, New Windsor, Mt Albert, Owairaka. 

Phone 815 0330 Mon-Fri 9am-4pm 

Email: parentaidcentralwest@gmail.com 

Free practical help for families with pre-school children 

in Central West Auckland who need a helping 

hand due to: the birth of a baby, illness, accident, 

tiredness or stress. 

Parenting Trust 

Information on programmes available can be 

found at www.parenttrust.org.nz. 

Being the parent you want to be. Even the best parents 

and caregivers get angry sometimes. 

When the parent-child relationship is strengthened, 

parents can provide loving and confident 

nurturing of children. 

8 


Birthcare Maternity Hospital is situated on Titoki Street in Parnell, with tranquil 

views looking out over the Domain, and the Museum. It is a primary care maternity 

hospital available for both birthing and postnatal care. Birthcare is a secure 

facility offering free undercover parking and easy access. 

Use of Birthcare is free to all birthing and postnatal women who are New Zealand 

residents, but you may upgrade to a private or premium room, should you 

choose. We have 45 beds, 24 are in twin share rooms, 17 are private rooms and 

4 premium rooms with queen beds. All rooms have ensuites. However the same 

high quality midwifery service is available to all women using the facility. 

Our birthing suite has four birthing rooms, three with pools for pain relief and 

relaxation as well as water births. We are close to Auckland Hospital for transfer, 

if this is necessary. 

We have our own LMC (Lead Maternity Carer) midwives, who provide continuity 

of care for those women choosing to birth at Birth care. They hold ante natal 

clinics on Level 3 at Birthcare. Our midwives are passionate about supporting 

and promoting natural birth at Birthcare. There is also a great team of professionals 

who provide postnatal services. These include physiotherapists, visiting 

paediatricians, and lactation consultants. The core midwifery and nursing staff 

are highly skilled in all aspects of postnatal care. They give special attention to 

parentcraft, and education to assist in that transition to parenthood. They liase 

closely with the LMC’s who are providing care for the women here and enjoy 

working in a close relationship with them. 

We have a lactation clinic which is held twice a week and is free for up to 4 weeks 

postnatally with a written referral from the woman’s LMC otherwise there is a 

$60 charge. 

There are regular tours of Birthcare for prospective parents. 

For further information call 09-374 0800, 

or visit www.birthcare.co.nz

PARENT SUPPORT 

10 

Support Services 

Allergy New Zealand 

Phone 623 3912 www.allergy.org.nz 

Barnardos Parent Help Line 

(Mon – Fri 9.00am – 5.00pm) 

Phone 09-625 0562 

www.barnardos.org.nz 

Healthline (24 hours per day) 

Phone 0800 611 116 

www.moh.govt.nz/healthline 

La Leche League (Breastfeeding) 

Phone 846 0752 www.lalecheleague.org.nz 

Miscarriage Support Auckland 

Phone 378 4060 www.miscarriagesupport.org.nz 

National Poisons Centre 

0800 POISON / 0800 764 744 

www.poisons.co.nz 

Parent to Parent Special Needs Children Support 

Phone 0508 236 236 

www.parent2parent.org.nz 

Plunket Car Seat Rental 

Phone 620 5791 www.plunket.org.nz 

Plunket Line (24 hours per day) 

0800 933 922 www.plunket.org.nz 

Post Natal Distress 

Phone 836 6967 

www.postnataldistress.org.nz 

SIDS New Zealand 

Phone 0800 164 455 (24hrs) www.sids.org.nz 

SKIP 

Phone 04 916 3300 www.skip.org.nz 

Starship Hospital 

Phone 307 8900 www.starship.org.nz 

Stillbirth and Newborn Death Support 

Phone 307 8900 www.sands.org.nz 

Trauma and Birth Stress Support Group 

Phone 575 7404 www.tabs.org.nz 

Women’s Refuge 

Phone 303 3939 www.womensrefuge.org.nz 

Work and Income (WINZ) 

Phone 0800 559 009 

www.workandincome.govt.nz 

Working for Families 

Phone 0800 257 477 

www.workingforfamilies.govt.nz 

Postnatal Support Group 

Central Auckland Support Group 

Great South Road, Greenlane 

Please call the office on 09 836 6967 

if you wish to join the group. 

We encourage you to contact us if you 

are experiencing any of the following: 

• Miserable most of the time and especially 

in the mornings and/or evenings 

• That life is not worth living and 

you have nothing to look forward to 

• Guilty and very ready to blame yourself 

• Irritable, snapping at your partner 

or other children 

• Tearful and overwhelmed 

• Constantly exhausted 

• Unable to enjoy yourself and humourless 

• You can’t cope; things easily get on top of you 

• Anxious about your baby 

and seeking reassurance 

• Unable to concentrate on anything 

• That your baby is a stranger and not really yours 

• No appetite or overeating 

• Loss of sex drive 

• Low energy levels 

• Problems with memory 

• Difficulty making decisions 

• Disturbed sleep, 

including early morning wakefulness 

• Feelings of not coping 

• Thinking a lot about the birth process 

For more information please contact the 

Postnatal Distress Network Trust 

Phone: 09 836 6967 

Web: www.postnataldistress.org.nz 

Email: pnd.org@xtra.co.nz 


Communication for cooperation 

A three week facilitated course designed to help you to focus on using non-physical methods 

of discipline and encourages parents and caregivers to build strong and caring relationships 

with their children, whilst giving clear boundaries. 

Module One 

• Understand and have an 

overview of the course 

content. 

• Understand the 6 Principles 

of Effective Discipline and 

how they apply in your own 

life. 

• Identify and understand the 

developmental stages and 

milestones of pre schoolers. 

• Identify a wide range of 

positive and effective communication 

techniques. 

Module Two 

• Identify communication 

techniques to engage children’s 

cooperation. 

• Understand the importance 

of routine and structure and 

have practical strategies for 

use in your own life. 

• Understand why it is important 

to allow children to 

express their feelings. 

• Understand how and why 

pre-school children express 

their feelings. 

• Identify a range of practical 

techniques for helping 

children express and deal 

with their feelings. 

Module Three 

• Understand the difference 

between discipline and 

punishment. 

• Identify some negative outcomes 

of physical discipline 

of children. Identify some 

negative behaviour triggers 

in children. 

• Identify a wide range of non 

physical discipline techniques 

and ways in which 

they can be used within a 

family setting. 

Day: 3 evening sessions: 

Tuesday, 18th September 

Wednesday, 26th September 

Wednesday 3rd October 

Time: 7.30pm to 9.30pm 

Venue: Athol Syms Hall 

11 Griffin Ave, Epsom 

Cost: $40 Parents Centre Member - single 

$45 Parents Centre Member - couple 

$50 Non Member - single 

$55 Non Member - couple 

BOOKINGS: Maree Phone: 636 5045 

Email: capc.bookings@gmail.com 

CENTRAL AUCKLAND PARENTS CENTRE 

11

Come and be part of 

our committee 

Our volunteer roles are designed 

to fit around your busy lives, can 

be done at home around your 

family and work commitments. 

Many of these roles only need 

a few hours of your attention a 

month – but we do need your 

help to keep Parents Centre 

moving forward. 

No previous experience required. 

Training, support and good 

company provided. 

Interested in learning 

more? Contact Diana on 

638-3990 or email capc. 

volunteering@gmail.com 

Or come along to our next 

committee meeting on 

Monday 13 August 

7.15pm - 9.30pm 

1 Elizabeth St, Mt Eden 

PARENT EDUCATION COORDINATOR 

The Parent Education Coordinator organises our Tinies to Tots 

classes, Magic Moments parenting classes, and our one-off 

sessions. This includes confirming speakers, organising hosts, 

and providing general oversight for the courses. 

Our Treasurer is currently looking after this role and can 

provide any support and training needed. 

Time commitment: couple of hours a fortnight 

VENUE COORDINATOR 

A small but essential role! The Venue Coordinator handles our 

venue bookings (an annual task) and then throughout the year 

makes sure that the supplies and resources kept at our venues 

in Epsom and Onehunga are well stocked and in order. 

Time commitment: a few hours a fortnight. 

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR 

Our current Advertising Coordinator is intending to stand down 

from the role and needs someone to take over from her. This 

job involves liaising with existing and new advertisers and 

forwarding all advertisements to the Editor of our newsletter. 

It also involves maintaining the Membership Discount Scheme. 

Time commitment: about 5 hours per month. 

Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart” 

Elizabeth Andrew 

Menstrual Problems 

Pain and associated disorder. 

Fertility/Infertility (Men and Women) 

Natural and artificial fertility (IVF, IUI...) 

Pregnancy 

Morning sickness, breech, induction, small for dates, 

anaemia, heart burn... 

Pre-birth Acupuncture 

Weekly from 36 weeks to minimize intervention. 

Post-natal Care 

Mother warming/after birth recovery, lactation/ 

feeding problems, depression, mastitis. 

Lee-Ana Lowe NZRA reg. member, ACC treatment provider 

142 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland, 1021 

09 833 4290 l 027 310 7014 l lee-ana@ana-med.co.nz 

www.ana-med.co.nz 

12 


HIRE OR BUY NEW 

Car Seats 

Buggies / Strollers 

Bassinets / Cots 

Portacots 

Baby Carriers 

Highchairs 

Exersaucers 

Baby Swings 

and much more.... 

Why Choose Baby On The Move? 

• Whether you decide to hire or buy new, we are here to help. 

• We stock all high quality, well known brands. 

• All our rental equipment is cleaned and maintained to the highest standard. 

Visit our store for a one on one boutique style service 

www.babyonthemove.co.nz 

Grey Lynn 

Contact: Kylie McCracken 

Phone: 09 361 5050 

Email: central.auckland@babyonthemove.co.nz 

Address: Unit 2, 29 Surrey Cres, Grey Lynn 

Hours: Tuesday to Friday 10am - 4pm 

Saturday 10am - 2pm 

Sunday & Monday - Closed 

Other Times by Appointment 

Mt Eden 

Contact: Andy & Meg Johnson 

Phone: 09 630 0613 or 021 625 227 

Email: mteden.auckland@babyonthemove.co.nz 

Address: 852a Mt Eden Road, Mt Eden 

Hours: Tuesday to Thursday 10am - 4.00pm 

Saturday 10am - 2pm 

Other Times by Appointment 


Member Discount Scheme 

The following retailers offer discounts to 

Central Auckland Parents Centre members. 

To get the discount, please remember to take your membership card to the store. 

3 Wise Monkeys 

www.3wisemonkeys.co.nz 

Discount: 10% when quoting PSDIDAKL 

Active Soul 

Phone: 021 263 351 

Email: info@activesoul.co.nz 

www.activesoul.co.nz 

Discount: Complimentary Trial Session 

PLUS 20% off a Term Concession Card. 

Aglaze Auckland Car Paint Protection 

P: 551 1691 

Discount: Free fabric protection with any booking 

All About Buggies 

Phone: 09 533 7802 

www.allaboutbuggies.co.nz 

Discount: A minimum of 10% but larger discounts 

may apply with tailored packages. 

Adelina Photography 

P: : 021 176 8357 E: adelina@adelina.co.nz 

www.adelina.co.nz 

Discount: $25 sitting fee + 25% of sales to CAPC 

Anamed Acupuncture 

P: : 09 833 4290 or 027 310 7014 

E: lee-ana@ana-med.co.nz 

www.ana-med.co.nz 

Discount: 10% discount on all services 

Baby Factory 

Discount: 20% off shopping day. 

See coupon in CAPC bi-monthly newsletter 

Baby on the Move 

P: 0800 222 966 

www.babyonthemove.co.nz 

Discount: 10% off 6 month capsule 

hire (Sales goods, specials not included) 

SEE 

ADVERT 

Pg 13 

Back in Balance Chiropractic 

P: 973 5999 

www.backinbalancechiro.co.nz 

Discount: $100 off first consultation, 20% off 

continuing visits 

Big Bed Bumper 

P: 537 3706 / 533 5901 

E: bigbedbumper@ yahoo.co.nz 

Trade Me/Big Bed Bumper 

Discount: 10% off the $29.95 price. Mention 

“Central Auckland Parents Centre discount” 

Bodywork 

P: 022-672 3922 

E: carolinefergusbodywork@gmail.com 

www.fitfitfit.co.nz/massagetherapy 

Discount: $40 off all treatments 

Daisy Baby 

76e Stoddard Road, Mt Roskill, Auckland 

P: 09 620 6925 

www.daisybaby.co.nz 

Discount: Get 10% off your order by entering CAPC 

at check out. We will also donate 5% of all orders 

that use CAPC to Central Auckland Parent’s Centre. 

Egg Maternity - Newmarket, Albany and Botany 

P: 523 0398 for addresses 

Discount: 10% discount off all non sale stock. 

Fatso.co.nz 

www.fatso.co.nz 

Discount: Free 3 week trial visit www.fatso.co.nz 

and enter the promo code ‘parentscentre’ 

Fit Fit Fit 

19 Surrey Crescent, Grey Lynn 

P: 360 0620 E: info@fitfitfit.co.nz 

www.fitfitfit.co.nz 

Discount: Fit Bumps – 10% discount on all classes 

Fit Mums – 10% discount on all boot camps 

Fit Studio – 10% discount on joining and membership 

fees 

Footcare Solutions Ltd 

202 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby 

2 Kinross Street, Blockhouse 

E: info@footcaresolutions.co.nz 

www.footcaresolutions.co.nz 

Discount: 10% discount off all Podiatry Services 

14 


Grace Osteopathy 

820 Mount Eden Road 

P: (09) 6300067 

www.GraceOsteopathy.com 

Discount: Free Baby Checks and 10 % discount on 

all treatments upon presentation of your CAPC 

membership card. 

Elevate Physio 

P: 021-02299708 E: info@fitfitfit.co.nz 

www.fitfitfit.co.nz/aboutus/ 

meettheteam/annemiekehammega 

Discount: 30min physio treatments at a 50% discount 

to members. (including ACC treatments) 

Kid Republic 

2 Kent Tce, Newmarket P: 522 8334 

Discount: 10% off full priced items 

Lasting Moments Baby Casting 

P: 524 6656 E: write-wendy@hotmail.com 

Discount: 10% 

Library Cafe 

5 Princes Street, Onehunga 

www.librarycafe.co.nz 

Discount: 10% off weekday spends over $15 

Lindy Fish Photography 

P: 021 0225 7047 

E: lindy.fish@yahoo.com 

www.lindyfish.com 

Discount: 10% discount 

Magic Beans Card 

www.magicbeans.co.nz 

Discount: Normally $35 – now only half price for 

CAPC members at $17.50. When ordering add 

“beanshalf” into coupon box at checkout. 

Mobile Beauty 

P: 0800 M-BEAUTY (623 288) 

Txt: 021 169 12 42 

E: info@mobilebeauty.co.nz 

www.mobilebeauty.co.nz 

FB: www.facebook.com/mobilebeauty.co.nz 

Discount: 15% off all treatments 

Natasya Tucker Photographer 

P: 521 7554 

Discount: 10% off 

Organic Africa Cafe 

373 Parnell Road 

P or TXT: 021 228 4866 

Discount: 10% discount upon presentation 

of your CAPC membership card 

PBS Insurance 

P: 0800 377 877 

E: Jeremy.PBS @vodafone.co.nz 

Discount: 10% discount on your first years premium 

when you apply for new insurance cover 

Peapods Reusable Nappies 

www.peapods.co.nz 

Discount: 10% off all products when ordering 

online. Enter the coupon code CAPC 

Pepsicles 

P: 0508 737742 

www.pepsicles.co.nz 

Discount: 10% off Honey Child nappies. Quote 

“Auckland Parents Centre discount” in subject line 

when emailing. 

Relaxation Retreat 

3/14 Mt Smart Rd, Royal Oak 

P: 634 4197 

E: relaxationretreat@xtra.co.nz 

Discount: 10% discount on reflexology and relaxation 

massage including pregnancy massage, plus 

a free instruction about infant massage for any 

expectant mother who books a relaxation massage 

during pregnancy 

Teeny Tiny Consulting Early Childhood Specialist 

- Wendy Perera 

P: 443 4668 

E: wendy@teenytiny.co.nz 

www.teenytiny.co.nz 

Discount: 10% off all products and services 

YMCA—Jordan Centre, Onehunga 

P: 636 8825 

E: Y-Kids.Jordan@nzymca.com 

Discount: 10% off any Y-Kids term programme 

Do you own a business that 

could offer our members 

a discount of 10% or more? 

Get one free full page 

advert when you sign up. 

Email: capc.advertising@gmail. 

com for further information. 


Annual Report 

for the year ending 31 March 2012 

It is with great pleasure that we present the Annual 

Report for Central Auckland Parents Centre covering 

the 12 months between April 2011 and March 2012. 

Membership 

Central Auckland Parents Centre had 276 members 

at 31 March 2012. Membership continues to be 

relatively stable as the main avenue for new members 

is through our antenatal course enrolments, 

and these classes continue to be fully subscribed. 

We continue to have a low renewal rate after the 

first year of membership; typically this is less than 

a handful a month (excluding committee member 

renewals). 

Our sincere thanks to Rachel MacBride-Stewart 

and Christy Leang, our Membership Secretaries, 

for maintaining the database of new members 

and membership renewals. Thank you also to Debbie 

Booth for acting as the Membership Secretary 

when we were between volunteers. 

Committee 

As always our Committee continues to farewell 

people throughout the year as people move away 

from Auckland, circumstances change and people 

embrace different challenges. Equally new faces 

join us bringing fresh ideas and enthusiasm. Our 

dedicated Volunteer Coordinator, Diana Kane, has 

been key to encouraging new volunteers through 

new marketing channels and committed follow up. 

During the year we farewelled Andrea Cummerfield, 

Anna Walters, Brenda Dargaville, Caroline 

Eddy, Jane McEntee, Joanne Ironton, Katie Stenhouse, 

Rachel MacBride-Stewart, Susanne Smith, 

Tina Jones and Victoria Halford. We thank them all 

for the work they did with CAPC. 

The Committee at the end of March of 2012 consisted 

of Caroline Alsweiler, Catherine Watson, 

Cheryl Tinholt, Christy Leang, Diana Kane, Debbie 

Booth, Fiona Gardiner, Helen Lin, Karyn Nobilo, Lisa 

Finlay, Maree Howcroft, Miranda Young, Ondrea 

Robinson, Rebecca Melton, Stephanie Sidoruk, 

Tracey Turner and Victoria Mayson. Naomi Narea 

was an Associate Committee member. 

Committee meetings were held at our committee 

members’ homes. Thank you to our Meeting 

Secretaries, Miranda Young, Brenda Dargaville and 

Cheryl Tinholt for diligently taking minutes and to 

those who hosted meetings and provided supper 

throughout the year. 

The Committee is an extraordinary group of women 

who are the life force behind CAPC. At various 

times during the year many have taken on additional 

roles and extra CAPC activities when others 

are unavailable or when we had vacant positions. 

We thank all our Committee members wholeheartedly, 

but we wish to especially thank those who 

have taken on multiple roles to keep the Centre 

moving forward. Thank you for making space in 

your incredibly busy lives to give to CAPC. 

Courses 

Introduction 

Courses in 2011/12 were generally well attended 

and we typically found it challenging to provide 

enough courses to meet demand. The exception 

was the Conscious Parenting suite, Magic Moments 

and Parenting With Purpose, that we often 

had to postpone or cancel. 

It has been through the generosity of our members 

through product sales and fundraising that has 

been put towards volunteer recognition that we 

have been able to continue to run all of our parent 

education courses. Without volunteer hosts these 

courses cannot take place and we are grateful to 

be able to acknowledge the incidental cost of volunteering 

their time. 

Child Birth Education 

(Antenatal and Practical Parenting) 

Our Childbirth Education courses continue to be 

our core business and it is rare to operate a course 

at less than maximum numbers. Between April 

2011 and March 2012 we ran 15 courses, with a 

total of 179 couples attending. This was consistent 

with 2010/2011. Plus we often had two additional 

couples at the Practical Parenting sessions. 

We are very grateful to Miranda Young, our Antenatal 

Coordinator, and Stephanie Sidoruk, our 

Childbirth Educator Coordinator, who enabled our 

Childbirth Education courses to run smoothly. And 

we acknowledge Victoria Halford, our Practical Parenting 

Coordinator for organising the people and 

16 


esources necessary to run the Practical Parenting 

sessions and Lisa Findlay, our Practical Parenting 

Host, for hosting these sessions. 

Our Childbirth Education classes cannot run without 

volunteer hosts. We are appreciative of the following 

people for generously hosting our antenatal 

courses and for setting up the coffee groups: Sara 

Dunning, Joanna Turner, Aiko Fukumoto, Maria 

Gribble, Evon Huang, Miranda Young, Rose sumei 

Zheng, Irma Ravagli, Rosalind Webster, Sharon Wu, 

Wendy Perera, Marika Ross, Kirsty Johnson and 

Fiona Gardiner. 

Thank you to our Childbirth Educators, Nikki Power, 

Mel Benge and Cheryl Tinholt, and to our Men’s 

Session Facilitator, Nick Endeacott. As always you 

have delivered our members the highest quality 

classes that people actually enjoy attending and 

we are grateful for your professionalism. 

Our paid Course Bookings Officer role, handling antenatal 

and parent education course bookings, has 

continued to be a success. Many thanks go to Katie 

Stenhouse, Susanne Smith and Maree Howcroft 

who have filled this role during the year. 

Baby and You 

We ran 15 courses this year, the same as in 

2010/2011, with 203 mothers/babies attending, 

slightly more than the previous year. 

Thank you to Caroline Alsweiler, our Baby and You 

Coordinator, for finalising bookings and arranging 

the classes and speakers and for filling in as emergency 

host when needed. Thank you also to our 

long term host, Naomi Naera, for making the journey 

from the North Shore to Epsom most weeks 

with a 4 year old in tow and baby on the way. And 

thanks to Katie Stenhouse, Susanne Smith and Maree 

Howcroft for organising provisional bookings 

from the Childbirth Education classes. 

The success of these classes rests on the expertise 

of our speakers. Special thanks to our fantastic 

speakers: Chris Cleland (Professional First Aid: 

infant CPR), Christine Miller (physiotherapist), 

Dorothy Waide (Baby Within: feeding and sleeping), 

Emma McLean (Mother-Well: baby massage), 

Rebekah Paddy (Mother-Well: natural health), Sarah 

Smith (baby massage), Sue Gray (Plunket Family 

Centre: feeding and sleeping), Susan Goldstiver 

(post natal distress) and Wendy Perera (Teeny Tiny: 

child development) for continuing to offer vital information 

to new mothers. 

Moving and Munching 

We ran nine courses between April 2011 and 

March 2012, two more than the previous year, 

with 112 mothers/babies attending, consistent 

with 2010/2011. An option to enrol on Moving 

and Munching when booking a Childbirth Education 

package has contributed to this. Thank you 

to Victoria Mayson and Anna Walters, our Moving 

and Munching Coordinators, and Debbie Booth, 

our acting Parent Education Coordinator, for doing 

a fantastic job coordinating these courses during 

the year. Thanks also Anna Walters, Jo Brady, Lynda 

Rogers and Naomi Naera for hosting these courses. 

To the “moving” presenters Wendy Perera (Teeny 

Tiny: child development and age appropriate toys) 

and Dianne McCullum (Mainly Toys: age appropriate 

toys) and “munching” presenter Kate Syers (nutrition) 

thank you for offering your time and energy 

to speak at this worthwhile course. 

Tinies to Tots 

We ran two Tinies to Tots courses in 2011 with 

25 parents attending. We changed this course to 

a two session format with three topics each night 

and had higher attendance than in the previous 

year (three nights with two sessions/night format). 

We have also been actively marketing this course 

to boost numbers. 

Thank you to Debbie Booth, our acting Parent Education 

Coordinator, for coordinating these courses 

during the year. Thanks also to Miranda Young and 

Debbie Booth for hosting these courses. 

To the speakers, Dianne McCallum (Mainly Toys: 

age appropriate toys), Kate Syers (nutrition), Kathryn 

Gubb (Future Feet: fitting first shoes), Sue Gray 

(sleep routines for older babies), Thoma Cullum 

(Auckland Regional Dental Service: caring for first 

teeth) and Wendy Perera (Teeny Tiny: child development) 

for offering your time and energy to speak 

at this fun course. 

Toilet Training 

We again ran a Toilet Training course in August 

2011. Attendee numbers doubled from 2010 with 

19 parents attending. Thank you to Debbie Booth, 

our acting Parent Education Coordinator, for coordinating 

this course, Miranda Young for hosting 

and Laura Moreley for facilitating. 

Conscious Parenting 

We scheduled one Parenting with Purpose course 

in 2011: this was cancelled due to low enrolments 

and interested attendees moved to a West Auckland 

Parents Centre course. 

We scheduled three Magic Moments courses in 

May and November 2011 and February 2012. We 

had 13 parents attending the May course and 13 


attending the November course. The February 

course was cancelled due to a large number of late 

cancellations that limited the course value to the 

remaining attendees. Remaining attendees were 

moved to the May 2012 course. 

Magic Moments funding was secured from ASB 

Community Trust allowing us to run these courses. 

A membership agreement with Seedlings Education 

Ltd has also contributed to boosting the Magic 

Moments course bookings. 

We owe a huge debt of gratitude to Debbie Booth 

and Brenda Dargaville for coordinating these 

courses and to Eileen Joy for offering such a challenging 

and invigorating experience. Thank for also 

to Victoria Halford for hosting the May course and 

Helen Lin and Miranda Young for hosting the November 

course. 

We will continue to monitor the viability of offering 

Conscious Parenting courses as funding must be 

secured on an annual basis to meet the high cost 

of running these courses. 

Venues 

Once again Auckland Council has enabled us to use 

two great facilities for our courses: Athol Syms Hall 

as our primary venue and Onehunga Community 

Centre for Practical Parenting sessions and various 

courses that have had a clash with dates booked at 

Athol Syms. We also used the Ellerslie War Memorial 

Hall for one night of Magic Moments. 

Auckland Council’s recognition of our status as a 

community group eligible for a 50% discount on 

hire fees is much appreciated. We are enjoying using 

newly refurbished venues. 

We owe thanks to Tracey Turner, our Venue Supplies 

Coordinator, for making sure both venues 

were well stocked for classes and to Debbie Booth, 

our acting Venue Bookings Officer, for making the 

annual bookings and accommodating (often last 

minute) booking changes. 

Financial Notes 

General 

Our Treasurer, Debbie Booth, continues to do an 

exceptional job keeping our accounts up to date 

and our expenditure on track throughout the year. 

We are indeed very grateful for the hard work this 

entails. 

Thank you to our auditors, Alistair Gauld and Jane 

Huang of Harts Chartered Accountants, for reviewing 

our annual accounts. 

Grants 

We struggled to obtain grants in the 

2011/12 year and are very grateful to these organisations 

who provided support through grants: 

• First Sovereign Trust for $5,212.39 for Preparing 

for Birth books, Baby Food & Beyond books and 

a data projector. 

• Lotteries Commission (via a PCNZ application 

on our behalf) for $1,200 towards administration 

costs. 

• COGS for $3,000 towards 2012 venue hire costs. 

• Lion Foundation for $1,540.09 for printing 5000 

course brochures, 200 Centre information brochures 

and 750 folders for 2012 course packs. 

• New Zealand Post for 300 Community Post 

envelopes to be used for membership correspondence. 

And we thank Debbie Booth and Ondrea Robinson, 

our Grants Coordinators, for all your hard work in 

coordinating and submitting grant applications in 

2011/12. 

Donations Received 

Thank you to PCNZ partners including Kimberley 

Clark (Huggies), Watties, Ocean Spray and Hasbro 

for their generous donations of sample packs and 

age appropriate toys that are made available for 

course participants. 

Thank you also to Birds and Bees New Zealand for 

their generous donation of $360.00, allowing us to 

purchase additional course resources. 

We are grateful to the members who were unable 

to attend the course they paid for and chose to donate 

the fee to CAPC in lieu of a refund. 

Donations Given 

CAPC gave no donations in 2011/12. 

Services to Members 

Coffee Groups 

We formed 15 coffee groups in the 2011/12 year. 

Thanks to the volunteer hosts who established 

these groups and to Stephanie Sidoruk, our Coffee 

Group Coordinator, for coordinating new people 

who joined existing coffee groups. These groups 

provide great support for new parents and are one 

of the key attractions for people to choose to attend 

a Parents Centre Childbirth Education class. 

Newsletters and Printed Material 

Six newsletters were published in 2011/12. Thank 

you to Catherine Watson, our Newsletter Editor, 

for producing our bi-monthly newsletter “Parent 

Talk”. A great deal of work goes into its creation 

and it is something our members really look forward 

to receiving. Catherine continues 

18 


to present content that is inviting and interesting to 

our members and offer several ways our members 

can be part of the newsletter. We have retained 

Documents By Design, Catherine’s business, to edit 

the newsletter to maintain the quality of this publication. 

Thanks to Christy Leang and Rachel MacBride- 

Stewart, our Membership Secretaries, for their 

help in producing labels. And we are grateful to 

Karyn Nobilo and Andrea Cummerfield, our Distribution 

Coordinators who, with assistance from 

Debbie Booth, managed the ordering of Kiwiparent 

magazines and delivering magazines/newsletters 

to the packers. Thanks to Spectrum Care Trust 

Board for packing the bi-monthly mailout. 

Thanks to Diana Kane, Debbie Booth, Miranda 

Young, Rachel MacBride-Stewart and Rebecca Melton 

for providing Committee reports for the newsletter 

in the absence of a President. 

Thanks for the Committee for providing input into 

the “top tips” in each newsletter. 

Our course and service brochures continue to be 

distributed to local Lead Maternity Carers, GPs, 

obstetric specialists and other interested parties. 

Many practices are now placing repeat orders for 

additional supplies as they regularly provide our 

information to their clients. Thank you to Andrea 

Cummerfield and Karyn Nobilo for maintaining our 

database of community contacts and preparing the 

mail outs. 

Online Communication 

Our regular electronic newsletter (“e-news”) suffered 

from lack of a dedicated editor and was 

sent sporadically. Our 35 – 40% open rate remains 

higher than average for this type of communication 

for our industry sector (not for profit). Thank you 

to Catherine Watson, our acting E-news Editor, for 

producing e-news as often as possible and maintaining 

the database of subscribers. 

Our Facebook page “likes” have remained upwardly 

mobile. This informal medium has generated a 

small amount of positive feedback. Thank you to 

Miranda Young for updating this regularly. 

Advertising and Member Discount Scheme 

Thanks to Rebecca Melton, our Advertising Coordinator, 

for bringing several new Member Discount 

Scheme partners on board. The increased Members 

Discount Scheme enables us to provide even 

more value to our members. 

Thanks to our current Member Discount Scheme 

partners for offering great service, products and 

deals for our members: 

• 3 Wise Monkeys 

• Active Soul 

• Adelina Photography 

• Aglaze Auckland Car Paint Protection 

• All About Buggies 

• Back in Balance Chiropractic 

• Baby Factory 

• Baby on the Move 

• Big Bed Bumper 

• Daisy Baby 

• Egg Maternity 

• Elevate Physio 

• Fatso.co.nz 

• Footcare Solutions Ltd 

• Fit Fit Fit 

• Grace Osteopathy 

• Kid Republic 

• Library Cafe 

• Lindy Fish Photography 

• Magic Beans Card 

• Mobile Beauty.co.nz 

• Natasya Tucker Photographer 

• Organic Africa Cafe 

• PBS Insurance 

• Peapods Reusable Nappies 

• Pepsicles 

• Relaxation Retreat 

• Teeny Tiny Consulting Early Childhood Specialist 

• YMCA Jordan Centre, Onehunga 

Thank you also to Molly Moo Cow and Hive of 

Activity for being part of the Member Discount 

Scheme in 2011. 

Many thanks to Debbie Booth, our acting Advertising 

Coordinator, for touching base with our existing advertiser 

base to secure ongoing advertising revenue. 

Thank you to our recurring newsletter advertisers. 

It is through your generous support of our newsletter 

that we are able to meet the cost of printing 

and distribution of Parent Talk. 

Products and Lending Services 

We continue to offer a range of high quality products 

for sale at a discounted rate to our members 

at our courses. 

Tracey Turner, our Product Coordinator, has done a 

fantastic job managing the product sales. All funds 

raised through product sales contribute towards 

the cost of running of our Centre. 

Thank you to the makers of cot and bassinette 

blankets, merino wraps, first aid kits, dri cots, feeding 

pillows and Call Me Dad books. 

This year saw us make the decision to withdraw 

most cake tins due to interest levels. We have added 

a cake decorating book in their stead. 

CENTRAL AUCKLAND PARENTS CENTRE 19 


TENS machine hire for use in labour continues to 

be popular with most machines booked out continually. 

Thank you to Jane McEntee and Miranda 

Young, our Lending Coordinators, for looking after 

the hiring process. 

Training 

No Introduction to Parents Centre courses were 

run for Committee members in 2011/12. 

National Conference 

This year the PCNZ National Conference took the 

form of a Volunteer Symposium and was held at 

the Waipuna Conference Centre in Auckland. 

Thank you to Debbie Booth and Catherine Watson 

for representing Central Auckland Parents Centre. 

The symposium is a motivating and inspiring event 

that celebrates the value of Parents Centre volunteers 

and brings together volunteers from around 

New Zealand to share experiences, knowledge and 

ideas. 

Fundraising and Events 

Thanks to Cheryl Tinholt, our Events and Fundraising 

Coordinator, we held a number of successful 

fundraising events throughout the year. 

Our annual Fotoman fundraising family photo shoot 

in August 2011 proved as popular as ever in bookings 

but disappointingly only raised $77 after a low 

purchase value per attendee and high venue hire 

costs. A cheaper venue will be sought for the 2012 

event. Huge thanks to Cheryl Tinholt for not only 

organising this event but also being the pickup and 

drop off point for the prints. Thanks also to the volunteers, 

Debbie Booth, Miranda Young, Stephanie 

Sidoruk and Susanne Smith who helped out on the 

day. And we are very grateful to David, “Fotoman”, 

for continuing to offer this great service. 

We sold Entertainment Books again this year and 

raised $160. Thanks to Cheryl Tinholt and Melissa 

Carter for organising the sales. 

We had another magical Christmas Heirloom Company 

evening in November 2011 and raised $141. 

Thanks to Cheryl Tinholt for organising the evening, 

Christmas Heirloom Company for a wonderful 

presentation and Pak N Save Royal Oak for their 

generous contribution to refreshments. 

We once again supported the Taieri Parents Centre 

with ticket sales for the Jaffa Race and in turn 

raised $122 for CAPC. 

Conclusion 

Central Auckland Parents Centre has had another 

successful year. 

We are fortunate to have a foundation group of 

committed Committee members who give so much 

time and energy to ensuring that the Centre flourishes. 

We acknowledge that our Committee members 

lead busy lives as parents, in paid work and in 

unpaid work managing a family, and they and their 

families give generously of their personal time. 

Without their assistance we could not provide the 

quality services that we do. 

To those whom we have failed to mention please 

forgive the oversight and thank you for your support 

over the year. 

Finally, thank you to our members who support 

Central Auckland Parents Centre and without 

whom we would not exist. 

Miranda Young 

On behalf of the vacant President’s position 

11 June 2012 

Committee as at 31 March 2012 

Name 

Role 

Caroline Alsweiler Baby & You Coordinator 

Catherine Watson Newsletter Editor 

Cheryl Tinholt Events and Fundraising Coordinator 

Christy Leang Membership Secretary, 

Lending Coordinator 

Diana Kane Volunteer Coordinator, 

National Support Liaison, 

acting Class Pack Coordinator 

Debbie Booth Treasurer, 

acting Parent Education Coordinator, 

acting Venue Bookings Coordinator 

Fiona Gardiner Antenatal Coordinator 

Helen Lin Web Site Administrator 

Karyn Nobilo Distribution Coordinator 

Lisa Finlay Practical Parenting 

Coordinator and Host 

Maree Howcroft Course Bookings Offi cer 

Miranda Young Meeting Secretary, 

acting Social Media Coordinator 

Ondrea Robinson Grants Coordinator 

Rebecca Melton Advertising Coordinator 

Stephanie Sidoruk CBE Liaison, Coffee Group Liaison 

Tracey Turner Product Coordinator, Admin Support, 

acting Venue Supplies Coordinator 

Victoria Mayson Moving & Munching Coordinator 

Naomi Narea Baby & You Host 

20 


CAPC Lending Library 

CAPC runs a boutique lending library for members and non members. 

Baby Gone: a compilation of 

carefully chosen New Zealand families’ 

stories about infertility, miscarriage, 

still birth and infant loss. It is 

an interesting read whatever your 

parenting story is. CAPC has a copy 

of this book you can borrow at no 

charge. 

Moving to Learn: a musical, 

dancing, playing, and movement 

program designed to stimulate your 

child in their early years. This book 

and CD set covers an extensive range 

of topics from birth to three years. 

CAPC has several sets you can borrow 

for a gold coin donation. 

Australian Women’s 

Weekly Kids Cakes: 

a wealth of ideas to create a masterpiece 

for your child’s birthday, 

or any special occasion. Many 

cakes are a simple iced sponge 

with lollies for decoration and 

quick enough to create during 

your baby’s nap time. CAPC has 

a copy of this book you can borrow for $5, including 

delivery. 

#1, #2 and Teddy Bear Cake Tins: it’s 

amazing how good a packet cake, simple icing and 

a few jelly beans can look and taste if it’s made in a 

“fancy” tin. CAPC has one of each you can borrow 

for $5 (CAPC members) or $8 (non-member). 

To borrow any of these items please contact 

Christy on capc.lending@gmail.com. 

It's hard justifying working and raising my 

child. Kindy offered the flexibility to work 

and get the caring start he needs. 

Our kindys offer so many 

opportunities for your child, 

pop in for a visit anytime. 

For more information call 

0800 4 KINDY 

or visit our website 

www.mykindy.co.nz 


A week in my life 

This newsletter is very Mummy and Daddy centric and I wanted to give us smaller family members 

a voice. My grandparents are spread all over the world so most weeks I write to them to give them 

an update on what I have been up to. Obviously I dictate these to Mummy because I know 

only the letters M, O and G, and she knows all 26. Enjoy! 

Sent: Sat 13/03/10 16:22 

From: Harrison Young 

To: My Grandparents 

Subject: Austin Powers, life IS all shits 

and giggles 

Hi Grandparents 

The immortal words of Austin Powers, International Man 

of Mystery, were “life is not all shits an giggles”. 

Well in my vast experience (10 weeks now, can you 

believe I have hit double figures already?!?), life 

IS all shits and giggles. This week has been SO FUNNY 

as a result. 

Mummy and Daddy have been playing nappy roulette 

where they compete to see who will win the present I 

put into my nappy for them. And I have a giggle when 

they get the surprise when they open my nappy. Mummy 

had a particularly good win a couple of days ago when 

she saw my present to her, then as she was getting a 

new nappy I decided to give her a bonus present, and to cap it off I decided 

to show her how I can make a fountain with my boy bits. Just in case she 

missed it, I decided to show her the fountain twice. It was so funny and I 

could not stop grinning! 

When Daddy got home from work the other night he started playing games with 

me and poking his tongue out at me. This was so funny I started giggling at 

him and he giggled back at me so we played this game for quite some time 

until I firmly reminded him I was hungry and he decided to feed me. 

I am getting very strong in spite of Mummy not giving me the right type of 

tummy time. I can sit up when someone carries me from my room to the dining 

room and not loose balance too often. But apparently while Mummy is 

impressed with me doing the locust yoga position the infant development 

person frowned on this and called it “sky diving”, which does not build 

up my neck strength. I also have a disadvantage in that I did not want to 

get a head rush when I was living inside Mummy’s tummy and stayed head up 

for so long. So Mummy has been putting me on a rolled up towel when I have 

tummy time and I can lift my head up for brief periods. I have included a 

photo of me lifting my head. Mummy is also working on my “planter reflex” 

that I need to crawl, again something I have a small disadvantage in because 

Dereck pulled me out of Mummy’s tummy and I did not need to push myself out. 

I have a new yoga pose this week, “legs up against the wall”, which is when 

I lift my legs at 90 degrees to my body. I especially like doing this when 

I am telling Mummy and Daddy I am really hungry and it seems to make them 

nervous so they scurry around and get my meal ready quick smart. 

We have started a lot of singing and sing “Wheels on the Bus” most play 

times. I also move my arms and legs according to the song e.g. round and 

round for the wheels, side to side for the wipers etc. Mummy likes to hang 

22 


on to my hands and feet while I am doing this so she is not left out. I am 

happy listening to her sing so her singing lessons have paid off! 

I have had a request for a photo of my amazing eyelashes so here is one 

Mummy took while Aunty Sveta was burping me. Aunty Sveta came up all the 

way from Christchurch last weekend to hang out with me and taught Mummy how 

to wind me on my tummy so I have two lovely things happen at the same time: 

de-winding and tummy time. Aunty Sveta is not a learner driver like Mummy 

and Daddy as she has had five years’ practice with Alexandra. 

Love, Harrison xxx 

Sent: Sat 20/03/2010 16.41 

From: Harrison Young 

To: My Grandparents 

Subject: Handyman 

Hi Grandparents 

I have grown this week, literally. I have a set of 

hands to be precise. Not only are they entertaining, 

they are also very practical as I can hang 

onto things as shown in the attached photo where I 

am bracing myself on the bar of my bouncer while it 

vibrated, it’s hard work hence my look of concentration. 

I have also grown some thumbs and these 

sometimes work as well as my dummy. Excellent! Now 

I don’t need to wait for Mummy and Daddy to get the 

dummy off the shelf for me. 

And speaking of thumbs, I am starting to look a little like Mummy. She 

has “hitchhiker” thumbs like me, you know the ones that bend backwards 

at the top joint. My eyelashes however are looking more like Daddy’s 

every day and have grown even longer, darker and thicker! 

And speaking of looks, I have the most amazing smile. If I had teeth I 

could star on one of those teeth whitening commercials. Daddy’s cousin, 

Sue Edwards, managed to take a photo of me smiling this morning (Mummy 

and Daddy are too caught up smiling back at me and they have not taken 

a decent one yet) and this is attached for your viewing pleasure. And 

to go with my smile I have a tinkling laugh that I used this week when 

Mummy was playing “Peek-A-Boo” with me before my bath. 

I have had a busy week activity wise too. I decided not to partake in 

Round The Bays with Mummy (an 8.4 km walk around the Auckland waterfront) 

so hung out with Aunty Heather and met Mummy at the finish line. 

She had two blisters from this walk so maybe it’s better I was social 

instead. Heather and I had a great time driving around from the city to 

St Heliers (where the walk finishes) and walking up hill and down dale 

from the car to the finish line. Round The Bays is quite a corporate 

affair with companies having picnic tents at a local reserve near St 

Heliers. Mummy took me to Zintel’s tent and her colleagues were suitably 

oh-ing and ah-ing over me. I had built up quite an appetite by this 

stage and finished my whole 200 ml bottle of formula without a break. 

After Round The Bays I went to a class for soon-to-be parents and showed 

everyone how to bath a little person like me. The class leader said I 

was the perfect model and she wishes everyone in the future provides as 

good a demonstration as I did. I received a new rattle for my efforts 

too and I like this a lot! 

Love,Harrison xxx 


High Energy Play 

Kids love to have fun and enjoy high energy play 

in an encouraging environment. We all know the 

benefits of allowing our children to discover, learn 

and use their imagination through play. However, 

in some cases providing a more structured environment 

can have huge benefits. 

When children are given the opportunity at an 

early age to develop confidence and concentration 

skills in a fun filled environment you will see your 

child improve in key areas such as hand-eye / foot 

co-ordination, balance, agility, and development 

in areas such as catching, throwing and kicking, as 

well as sharing, taking turns, following instructions 

and teamwork and of course fair play. 

At Soccer4tots we provide structure and progressive 

programmes specific for either 2, 3 or 4 year 

olds, using a range of sport like games and activities, 

children are being offered early exposure to a 

positive educational environment while helping to 

create social relationships along with your child’s 

cognitive and gross motor skill development. A 

study was recently published in the BBC news 

which linked physical activity levels with academic 

performance in school children and it stated that 

“children should be active for at least one hour a 

day, for health reasons”. 

Children enjoy taking part in activities involving 

Mum and Dad, therefore we encourage parental 

participation for the younger children, and we 

know four year olds like to do things for themselves, 

and so we encourage this age group to work 

as a team and follow instruction from a coach allowing 

parents to have a less hands on approach. 

Building on the philosophy that self-esteem comes 

from personal achievement, children learn invaluable 

life skills that assist with everyday activities 

such as attending day care, school and playing 

team based sports. It also encourages your child to 

develop skills and confidence to enjoy a seamless 

transition to playground and junior sports. 

Lisa Cross Director Soccer4tots. For more information 

please view www.Soccer4tots.co.nz

Deciding to return to work 

Should you return to work after the baby is born? 

If you can even ask this question, consider yourself 

lucky. Many parents have no choice about 

whether to go back to work. Among parents of 

children under the age of one, more than 25 percent 

of mothers and about 90 percent of fathers 

work (in addition to housework and childcare). 

Not all of these do so by choice. Whether single 

parents or dual-earning couples, many parents 

find that they have to go out and make some 

money just to make ends meet. 

Of course, just because you’re lucky to have a 

choice doesn’t make that choice any easier. Whether 

you decide to make a full-time commitment to 

one or the other or split your time between childcare 

and other work, you’ll be forced to sacrifice 

something important. Any choice you make may 

involve a sense of loss. 

In making your decision, you’ll need to try to find a 

balance between your baby’s needs and your own 

(whether financial or personal). This choice is very 

personal, but here are some issues you may want 

to consider: 

Money: For many parents, the question of money 

proves decisive. Can you afford to take time off? 

If you would prefer to stay home, can you economize 

to compensate for lost earnings? If you go 

back to work, how much extra money will you really 

be bringing into the household budget? Will 

the added costs of childcare, house cleaning, and 

business-related expenses (commuting, clothing, 

lunches, and so on) eat away at your earnings? 

Priorities: What are the most important things 

in your life? So many possibilities suggest themselves: 

family, the ability to be creative, living comfortably, 

your baby’s well-being and healthy development, 

independence, relationship with your 

spouse, career progress, self-confidence, adequate 

health care benefits, the opportunity for personal 

growth, and many others. Rank your priorities and 

consider which decision best serves those at the 

top of the list. 

Emotional issues: Don’t dismiss these issues as unimportant. 

You, your partner, and your baby will all 

suffer if you make a decision that leaves you feeling 

miserable. In which role, parent or wage-earner, do 

you feel most confident? In which does your partner? 

Which is most stressful? 

Will you feel guilty for “neglecting” your baby if 

you go back to work? Will you feel dissatisfied with 

your life if you don’t work outside of the home? 

Will you feel pressed to provide “quality time” in 

the hours you spend with your child if you’re away 

working 20 or more hours a week? How will you 

feel if you miss special firsts: first laughs, first steps, 

first words? Will you feel jealous of your day-care 

provider? 

Trust: Do you have someone you can trust to care 

for your baby? If not, are you confident you’ll find 

someone trustworthy? Will anyone ever be able to 

earn your trust as your baby’s caregiver? 

Shared care: Will your partner share in childcare 

and household chores? Can you depend on your 

partner to ease your burden? Or will you not only 

be working outside the home, but doing all the 

work inside as well? 

Career goals: Will more time off significantly retard 

your job advancement? Can your employer offer 

you assurance that you’ll have a job if you take 

more than its standard parental leave? 

Employer flexibility: How understanding is your 

employer? Will your employer allow you time off 

when your baby or baby sitter is sick? Can you 

leave early or come in late? How much time will 

your job really require? Can you work at home? 

In making your decision, keep in mind that unless 

you’re financially strapped, any choice you make 

is reversible. If things don’t work out the way you 

had hoped, you can always change your mind. If 

you work full- or part-time and find it unbearable 

to be away from your baby, take an extended leave 

or quit your job. If you decide to stay at home and 

find that you miss the money, the camaraderie, the 

status, or the sense of accomplishment that you 

once got at work, then try to find some work outside 

the home. 

Read more on FamilyEducation: http://life.familyeducation.com/working-parents/baby/50551. 

html#ixzz21gmGd368 


What paid and unpaid leave is 

available and when does it start 

Parental leave includes the following types of 

unpaid leave (some of which can be shared with 

your spouse/partner if they are also eligible). 

Maternity leave of 14 continuous weeks may start 

up to six weeks before the expected date of birth 

or adoption. If you plan to take maternity leave, 

you must write to your employer at least three 

months before your expected date of birth. 

In certain cases maternity leave can start earlier. 

Your doctor or midwife can direct you to start your 

leave earlier if they believe it is necessary for the 

health of you or your baby. Your employer can 

also direct you to start maternity leave early if 

you cannot continue to do your job safely or cannot 

perform your job adequately. If your doctor or 

employer directs you to start your maternity leave 

early, you have the right to take eight weeks maternity 

leave after the expected date of birth, and 

your maternity leave is extended to allow that. 

Special rules apply in this case - contact the Department 

of Labour on 0800 20 90 20 during business 

hours for further details. 

If you and your employer agree, you can start maternity 

leave at any other time before your baby 

is due. 

Special leave of up to 10 days can be taken by a 

mother before maternity leave for reasons connected 

with pregnancy (e.g. antenatal checks). 

Partner’s/paternity leave (where the spouse/ 

partner is an employee) of either one week (for 

a spouse/partner with six months eligible service), 

or two weeks (for a spouse/partner with 12 

months eligible service). Partner’s/paternity leave 

can be extended in certain circumstances, if parental 

leave payments are transferred from a mother 

to an eligible spouse/partner. Partner’s/paternity 

leave is additional to the period of maternity and 

extended leave. 

Partner’s/paternity leave can be taken in the period 

between 21 days before the expected date 

of delivery (or date you assume the care of a child 

with a view to adoption) and 21 days after the actual 

date of birth or the date you have assumed 

the care of a child with a view to adoption. If you 

and your employer agree, you can start partner’s/ 

paternity leave at any other time. 

Extended leave of up to 52 weeks is available for 

employees with 12 months eligible service. It can 

be up to 52 continuous weeks, less any maternity 

leave taken, and is available in the 12 months after 

birth, or date the employee assumes the care of a 

child they intend to adopt. Extended leave may be 

shared by both eligible parents, but the total leave 

taken must not be more than 52 weeks (including 

maternity leave and paid parental leave). However, 

the one or two weeks partner’s/paternity leave entitlement 

is additional to this 52 week period. Both 

spouses/partners can take their leave at the same 

time or they can take it one after the other. 

Extended leave can start any time after the end of 

your maternity or partner’s/paternity leave. 

Each kind of leave must be taken in one continuous 

period. You can finish your maternity or paternity 

leave, go back to work, and then take extended 

leave later. However, the right to extended leave 

ends when the child is one year old, or one year 

after you have assumed the care of a child you intend 

to adopt. 

If you and your employer agree, you can start extended 

leave at any other time. 

Paid parental leave is available to female employees 

who give birth to a child, or to either parent 

where a couple has assumed the care of a child under 

six they intend to jointly adopt. You may transfer 

all or part of your paid parental leave to your 

spouse/partner as long as they are also eligible. 

If you meet either the six or 12 month eligibility 

criteria, you are entitled to paid parental leave for 

14 weeks. To receive it, you must apply to your 

employer for parental leave, then apply to Inland 

Revenue for parental leave payments. This paid 

leave must be taken at the same time as any unpaid 

leave you take. 

The maximum level of payment is currently 

$475.16 per week before tax. You are entitled to either 

your gross weekly rate of pay (your pay before 

tax) or $475.16, whichever is lower. 

26 


The payment period begins when your parental 

leave begins - that is, when you start your maternity, 

partner’s/paternity, or extended leave. 

When you apply for paid leave you can choose 

when your payment commences. It continues until 

the 14 weeks are complete. However, it may stop 

earlier if you: 

• Transfer the payment, or part of the payment, 

to your spouse/partner 

• Return to work before the end of the paid parental 

leave period 

• Resign from your job 

• Are employed on a fixed-term agreement that 

expires during the paid parental leave period. 

Your payments will stop if you return to work for 

any time during the parental leave period. 

Some employment agreements include parental 

leave provisions. You may have a choice of parental 

leave provisions if your employment agreement 

has provisions that are as favourable as, or more 

favourable than, those provided by law. Your employment 

agreement cannot change your eligibility 

for the government’s parental leave payments, and 

you can receive additional payments through your 

employment agreement. 

You can take parental leave multiple times, as 

long as six months elapse between the date you 

returned to work and the expected date of birth 

of the subsequent child. You must also meet the 

eligibility requirements each time. 

DISCLAIMER: This information is intended to inform, please ensure you do your own research. 

Should you require further information please call the Department of Labour on 0800 20 90 20 

or visit their website www.dol.govt.nz. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


What are my options when 

parental leave ends? 

Notice of return If you are intending to return to 

work following your parental leave, you are required 

to write to your employer 21 days before 

your leave ends and advise them of your intention 

to return to work. 

If your employer was not able to keep your job open 

while you were on parental leave, you should instead 

tell the employer 21 days in advance the date 

you will be available for work. This date becomes 

the start of your six-month “preference” period. 

Not going back to work If you decide that you will 

not be returning to work when your parental leave 

ends, you must write to your employer and tell 

them this at least 21 days before your leave ends. 

If you decide not to return to work during the period 

you are receiving the parental leave payment, your 

payment ceases when your employment ceases. 

If you do not go back to work at the end of your parental 

leave, your employment will be considered 

to have ended on the day you started the leave, but 

you are not required to repay the parental leave 

payment. 

Early return to work You can return to work early, 

or start your preference period early, if your child 

is miscarried, is stillborn, dies, or is adopted or 

cared for by someone else. You should write to 

your employer 21 days before the date you intend 

to return. You may also return to work early if 

your employer agrees. The employer may ask for a 

medical certificate if you wish to return early from 

maternity leave. 

What other assistance is available? Working families 

that have children may be entitled to the parental 

tax credit or paid parental leave. New parents 

may access one, but not both, of these entitlements. 

The parental tax credit is a family assistance payment 

administered by Inland Revenue. The number 

of children in a family and the family’s level of income 

are used to calculate whether the family is entitled 

to the payment, and the level of the payment. 

In most cases, families will receive a higher level of 

payment if they apply for paid parental leave. However, 

parental tax credit payments may be higher 

where a family: 

• is on a low income 

• is expecting the birth of, or intends to adopt, 

more than one child 

• wishes to take only a short period of parental 

leave. 

You can only access one of the payments, and you 

need to decide which is the best for you. Inland 

Revenue can provide you with advice on whether 

paid parental leave or the parental tax credit would 

be best for you. www.ird.govt.nz or by phoning IRD 

on 0800 227 773. 

Becoming a stay at home Dad 

In one study published in Psychology of Women 

Quarterly in 2005, researchers from Yale University 

looked at the attitudes of our culture at large 

towards traditional and non-traditional families. 

The researchers defined traditional as a family 

with a working father and stay-at-home mother, 

and non-traditional families as families with a 

working mother and a stay-at-home father. The 

results of these studies were quite interesting, 

and they just go to show what some of the common 

reactions to stay-at-home dads are. 

The researchers in this study found that people 

liked traditional families more, and that 

they expressed negative attitudes – usually very 

openly! – towards non-traditional families. Stay-athome 

dads were somehow viewed as less-than by 

other people, and working mothers were not wellrespected 

or well-liked unless they were working 

because of financial necessity rather than for personal 

fulfillment. 

If you’re already a stay-at-home dad or have talked 

with people about the possibility of becoming one, 

this all probably seems like a no-brainer to you! 

It’s not at all uncommon for people to have a distinctly 

negative, know-it-all attitude towards stayat-home 

dads. But then, of course, there’s the op- 

28 


posite extreme of those who paint you to be a hero 

just because you stay home with your kids. What’s 

a guy to do? Here are a few of the most common 

reactions to being a stay-at-home dad and what 

you can do about them: 

The Hateful Reaction 

When it comes to parenting, you simply can’t 

please everyone, nor should you try to. While every 

parenting decision from whether or not to breastfeed 

a child to whether or not to spank a child can 

come with hateful reactions from certain quarters, 

nothing seems to draw so many of these reactions 

as being a stay-at-home dad. (At least, that’s how 

you probably feel when you tell people that this is 

what you do!) Some people just don’t get it and 

never will agree with your decision. 

The best way to react to this one is to ignore it! You 

don’t owe anyone else (not even your mother-inlaw!) 

a justification about why you’ve decided to 

stay home with your kids. If you’re getting a hateful 

reaction from someone you don’t even know, just 

walk away. In touchier situations – like when dealing 

with family members – perhaps you can come 

up with a one-liner such as, “It just works better 

for us this way,” that you can throw in before you 

pointedly change the direction of the conversation. 

The Effusive Reaction 

On the opposite end of the spectrum, you have 

those very liberal people who think that being a 

stay-at-home dad makes you a hero. While it can 

be nice to be praised rather than vilified for your 

current career choice, it can also be quite annoying 

because you know you’re just doing what’s best for 

your family and yourself at this particular moment 

in your history. 

Dealing with those who think you’re a total hero 

for taking care of your kids can be tricky. Of course, 

you don’t want to offend them purposefully, but 

you might also want to just change the subject yet 

again. Again, having just a little something to say 

about your role as a stay-at-home dad and then 

changing the subject can be helpful. 

The Advice-Giving Reaction 

Part of the problem with our world’s perception of 

the roles of men and women is that people assume 

dads don’t understand how to take care of children 

by virtue of the fact that they are male. This 

is, of course, no true. Some men are just as much 

“naturals” at caring for kids as some women are, 

and every parent has at least a little bit of learning 

curve, no matter what their gender! 

Just because men can’t give birth or breastfeed 

certainly doesn’t mean they aren’t competent 

enough to care for a child. 

With that said, as a stay-at-home dad, be prepared 

for more than your fair share of parenting advice. 

It will come from moms at the playground, your 

family members, people you know a little, and 

complete strangers in the grocery store. There are 

a myriad of ways to handle the advice-giving reaction 

to your role as a dad, and the option you 

choose depends on your personality, how well you 

know the advice giver, and your mood on that particular 

day. 

You could, for instance, just let the advice roll off 

your back with a polite, “Thanks for the advice” 

and, of course, a quick change of subject if you’re 

stuck in an actual conversation with the advice-giver. 

You could also become a little sarcastic, which is 

especially fun when you’re dealing with those who 

have much less parenting experience than you (or, 

in many cases, who aren’t parents at all and just 

happen to be of the female gender). Of course, if 

the person you’re speaking with has a similar parenting 

style to your own and is genuinely trying to 

help, it can be helpful to listen and learn! It might 

eat at your pride a little to take unasked-for advice, 

but sometimes you really will learn something 

helpful! 

Reactions to being a stay-at-home dad can be difficult 

to get used to and to deal with at first, and 

if your career had previously been a big part of 

your identity, things can be even more difficult. 

However, learning to deal with these common reactions 

in a way that is helpful for you and for the 

people involved otherwise is a good way to make 

your time as a stay-at-home dad more successful. 

By Daniela Baker, reproduced with kind permission 

from www.diyfather.com. 


Going back to Work 

How to stay healthy, stress- free and energised 

These days most women either have to or choose 

to go back to work after having a baby. This can be 

a very stressful time for many. Even though they 

look forward to getting back to a much loved job, 

having some adult time, feeling suddenly in control 

of their world again and having some money 

coming in, it can also be a time of worry and sadness 

and a possible compromise of health where 

juggling and rushing leave little time for relaxing 

and looking after oneself. 

Diet: 

Eating a diet rich in good complex carbohydrates 

such as whole grains including rice, millet, buckwheat, 

oats, quinoa and couscous is important for 

energy. Protein at every meal and snack will keep 

blood sugars stable reducing the likelihood of a 

3pm crash in energy and emotions and the risk of 

snacking on junk foods such as biscuits and chippies. 

Good sources of protein include all meat, fish, 

eggs, hummus, yoghurt, cheese, milk, beans, legumes, 

soy, spirulina, nuts and seeds. Soups either 

homemade or fresh packet are an easy healthy 

meal to have. Taking left-over food is a cheap 

healthy way to avoid processed take out lunch options. 

Being prepared is important. 

Sleep: 

Try to switch off at night and go to bed early. It is 

easy to while the evening away to have some ‘quiet 

me time’. Chamomile and Lemon Balm Teas can 

help to relax so that sleep is found easily. Self massage 

at night with sweet almond oil and 2-3 drops 

of lavender oil after a hot shower will aid sleep. 

Skullcap is a great herb to help relaxation and sleep 

and 5HTP helps give good levels of tryptophan 

which converts to serotonin to help with this too. 

Memory/ Foggy Brain/Chronic Stress: 

Many women complain of losing their brain capacity 

through pregnancy and for up to a year after 

birth. Sleep deprivation has much to do with this 

and often women are still breast feeding and having 

broken nights when they go back to work. This 

can be extremely worrying and stressful for those 

who are still trying to uphold a high stress/ high 

performance role. 

Herbs: 

Codonopsis, Bacopa, Rehmannia, Echinacea, Withania, 

Rhodiola and Astragalus are all fantastic and 

safe herbs to use (even when breast feeding). They 

are known as Adaptogens as they aid adaptation 

during times of stress and after long-term stress. 

They are also known as tonics, as they help to tone 

the systems giving renewed energy, strengthened 

immunity and mental alertness. These can be 

taken long term. Always seek advice from an herbalist/naturopath 

who specializes in women, and 

children’s health. 

Supplementation: 

Vitamin C - wonderful to support the immune system 

and the adrenal glands during stress. 

Multivitamin - helps support the nutrient loss from 

pregnancy and aid nervous system energy. This is 

important in times of stress. A good potency one 

is important. 

Fish Oils - 2,000mg/day. These have been shown in 

studies to increase the immune system and help to 

support the nervous system. Cod-liver oil for mental 

alertness and immune health is ideal. 5mls/day. 

Magnesium and Calcium - these minerals are used 

up in large amounts when stressed and a deficiency 

can result in insomnia, headaches, muscle 

aches, heart palpitations or panic attacks. 

30 CENTRAL AUCKLAND PARENTS CENTRE

Acupuncture: 

This can be used with wonderful result to increase 

‘qi’ or energy. It can also help with foggy brain and 

symptoms of stress. 

Massage: 

Self massage with warm sesame oil which is an 

ancient Ayurvedic treatment used to calm a person 

and reduce stress levels- it is also a lovely skin 

treatment. If possible have a monthly massage to 

alleviate tight muscles and give you ‘time out’. 

Hypnosis: 

Can help with relaxation, insomnia and issues of 

guilt etc. It is also a great self help technique once 

self hypnosis is learnt from a therapist it is a tool 

you then have for life. 

Exercise: 

Regular exercise especially if done in the mornings 

reduces cortisol levels and has been shown in studies 

to stop insomnia. Many new mums exercise a 

lot getting out with bubby in the pram, it is important 

to keep this up once back at work. Brisk walking 

at lunch time, swimming, Pilates and yoga are 

all fabulous ways of staying fit and keeping the feel 

good endorphin levels high. Try to exercise three 

times per week for half an hour. It is a way of keeping 

your health as a priority, something that often 

gets pushed to the bottom of the list of ‘to dos’. 

Bach Flowers: 

Four drops, four times a day and as needed (here 

are some possible choices). 

White chestnut - switch off mind chatter 

Walnut - make changes positive 

Red chestnut - over worry for others 

Pine - guilt 

Olive - mental and physical exhaustion. 

Lastly: 

Keep open communication channels and reassess 

after 2 months with partner, extended support network 

and boss. 

Try not to compromise on your priorities, (i.e.- 

don’t leave later than 5pm if that is home time, do 

not work at night, do not send your unwell child 

to daycare because you feel you must work). Write 

these down if necessary and revisit them monthly 

to make sure things have not lapsed. Set achievable 

and realistic expectations for your family and 

work. 

If you feel you need mental, emotional or physical 

support a Registered Naturopath who specializes in 

women’s health can help to maintain your health 

and keep you on track during this time of adjustment. 

Written by Rebekah Paddy, ND, Dip Med Herb, 

Naturopath from Mother-Well Natural Health 

820 Mt Eden Rd, Mt Eden, Auckland, Ph: 09-630 067, www.mother-well.co.nz 

Our Team of Specialist Practitioners offer: Naturopathy, Herbal Medicine, 

Homeopathy, Hypnotherapy, Counselling, Midwifery, General Medicine, 

Biomedicine, Acupuncture, Cranial Osteopathy, Body Talk, Massage, Hypnobirthing 

– to find out more call our Clinic today. 


Being married to a skier it was inevitable that our 

children would be taken to the snow and learn 

how to ski from an early age. 

We first took Zoe, our eldest, when she was one 

and she has gone every year since. The first year 

she had a ball playing in the snow, sliding down in 

a rubber tube and sitting in the backpack on her 

dad’s back while he skied. In fact she was so relaxed 

she would fall asleep in the backpack and 

snore in his ear. 

The following years were spent tobogganing down 

the hill with her. She is a bit of a dare devil and by 

three was happily going up and down in the toboggan 

by herself. Zoe also has the amazing ability to 

make lots of friends with other people simply by 

throwing snowballs at them. 

We spent these years making sure she was happy 

and confident in the snow. 

We first put Zoe on skis when she was four, after 

she had shown an interest. She was hooked and 

spent the next year asking to go skiing again. 

Snow Report 

Our second child, Tilly was not so impressed with 

the snow. She first went when she was 18 months 

and while she was happy going downhill in a toboggan, 

she flatly refused to walk back up the hill 

and was miserable. I ended up spending most of 

the day in the hot, crowded cafe with her - which 

is not a fun way to spend a day. We tried her again 

last year, with much the same result. 

It was with trepidation that we once again planned 

a ski trip to Ruapehu, this time with a five and three 

year old. Everything started well, both girls were 

super excited in the week leading up. They wore 

their snow clothes round the house and practised 

“skiing” in their socks on the kitchen floor. 

Once on the mountain, Dad took Zoe to get her 

ski’s and I took Tilly tobogganing. Tilly quickly decided 

that she was going to ski too, so I returned 

the toboggan and got her sorted out with ski’s. 

A quick lesson in how to stop and they were both 

up and away. We haven’t put them into formal ski 

lessons yet, my husband was once a ski instructor. 

I have been a beginner skier for about 10 years. 

Which meant I knew what to teach them to get 

them started as it’s all I’ve known. But the simplest 

way is to take them to the top of the hill and give 

them a push. Run or ski alongside reminding them 

to make a pizza/wedge/triangle/snow plough and 

to bend their knees. 

Other ways that work is to ski with your child between 

your legs. This is great to give them a real 

feel for speed and turning. Or ski alongside them 

while you both grip the same ski pole horizontally. 

It is also important to make sure they know how to 

get on and off the chairlift and magic carpet. Or if 

you are like me and concerned about taking them 

on the chairlift, do ask for help from the liftee - 

they are more than happy to assist. 

We spent our time in Happy Valley and it is very 

crowded in the holidays. Make an early start before 

the crowds. We went with friends who have 

children of the same age and ability, which adds to 

the fun element of the day. It also gives you the 

option of swapping children if yours start getting 

grumpy with you. 

We had a great couple of days on the mountain 

with the only drama being when we had to leave. 

So what advice can I offer you for taking your little 

ones to the snow for the first time. 

32 


First impressions 

count and nowhere is that more important than on 

the snow. If your child’s first memory of skiing is 

being wet, cold, and miserable, it will leave a lasting 

impression and could put them off for life. 

Clothing It is essential that your child is warm — 

there’s nothing more disheartening that a whinging, 

frozen child who just wants to get back indoors. 

Beg, borrow or buy good quality clothing 

that fits properly — some gear has a tendency to 

ride up, leaving gaps for the snow to get in. 

One-piece suits are ideal, plus mittens that are 

easy to get on and off. Dress them in layers, starting 

with polypropylene that dries quickly and traps the 

warmth. A warm hat is also essential, though once 

they get up on skis it’s best to purchase or hire a 

helmet. You will also need sunglasses or goggles 

that are comfortable and won’t fall off. 

I take spare everything, especially mittens and 

socks as they get very wet. Also consider taking 

sunhats as it can get very hot if it is sunny and you 

need sun protection instead of a beanie. And it is 

nice to have a dry set of clothes once you get back 

to the car. 

Try The Warehouse for good deals on snowboots 

and other gear. Choose boots that have rubber 

across the top of the foot and a good closing system 

- sorry girls these won’t be the pretty ones. 

First day on the snow The best age to introduce 

children to the snow is really a matter for parents 

— every child is different and their needs will vary 

according to their size, strength and endurance. 

I would recommend acclimatising young children 

to the cold at an early age, taking them to the snow 

to play, toboggan or just build snowpeople. Fun is 

the key here — if they love snow, then it makes 

sense that they’ll love skiing or too! 

Around three or four years is an ideal age to see if 

they want to try skiing. Try not to push them into 

having a go — instead, wait for them to express an 

interest in trying. On Ruapehu it is free for under 

fives to hire ski gear and get a lift pass (with a paying 

adult). 

Allow for lots of breaks, half-days are ideal. 

Weather Stay at home if the weather is less than 

ideal, there is nothing like a bad day on the mountain 

to put anyone off. But remember that on a 

sunny day you will get sunburnt. Sunblock everywhere 

that is exposed. 

Food It is expensive to buy food on the mountain 

so take lots. Small sized snacks for regular short 

breaks are best. And lots of chocolate too. 

Remember to have fun yourself!!!! 

Catherine Watson 


Parents Centre New Zealand 

celebrates 60 years of 

supporting parents this year. 

Continuing our series of short articles about the history of Parents 

Centre. Take a moment to remember those parents who have 

paved the way for us today. 

Changing the face of maternity care 

In the 1920s, New Zealand had the second highest 

maternal mortality rate in the world with 6.48 

women per 1000 births dying of puerperal sepsis. 

However, the strict controls that were put in place 

for the next 35 years to prevent women from dying, 

had the side effect of profoundly disempowering 

pregnant women and new parents. Drugs, 

which had initially been introduced to reduce pain 

during child birth, were routinely used (and sometimes 

against the consent of the mother) and the 

childbirth process became very medicalised and 

disempowering for parents. 

After having a baby, you could expect to spend 

the next ten days in bed, with your baby in a 

nursery. You were not even allowed to get up to 

go to the toilet and instead had to use a bed pan 

every four hours and then endure two minutes of 

a nurse scrubbing you, a jugful of antiseptic fluid 

for cleansing the perineum and numerous cotton 

swabs for wiping it dry with the aid of forceps. You 

could not hold or see or feed your baby when you 

wanted - babies were also only fed on a strict fourhourly 

routine. 

Medical staff were not sympathetic to women. 

Nursing at this time had a basis of military-style, 

hierarchical training. It was very inflexible, and as 

The Trouble with Women reports “Matrons all too 

often were unmarried women of the no-nonsense 

school, splendid in an emergency, but sticklers for 

rules and timetables and the proper distance to be 

maintained between those in uniform and those in 

dressing gowns.” 

Parents Centre philosophies of a natural childbirth 

– avoiding very heavy medication, when possible, 

and encouraging exercise, movement and relaxation, 

as well as “rooming in” where babies stay 

with mothers after the birth, rather than being removed 

into a separate nursery, have changed the 

face of maternity care in New Zealand. Women 

now are encouraged to get moving soon after the 

baby, and the importance of skin-to-skin contact 

for newborns is widely known. 

Emily Harrop-Smith 

Reference: Dobbie, M. (1990). The trouble with 

women: The story of Parents Centre New Zealand. 

NZ: Cape Catley Ltd. 

I cannot think of any need in 

childhood as strong as the need for a 

father’s protection. - Sigmund Freud 

34 


CAPC Top Tips for parents 

Where your CAPC committee and members share their advice and thoughts on parenting topics. 

Tip for easing the return to work. 

Deciding to return to work is no easy decision, and then once you are there trying to act like 

an un-frazzled mother and be the same competent worker you were before children is no easy feat. 

Here is what CAPC committe recommends: 

“Have a practice run. Before beginning work, set your alarm to the time you would need to get up. 

Get yourself and your children ready to leave the house on time. I actually dropped my children off at 

the daycare and did a practice drive to work. ” 

“Start your children in childcare the week before you return to work.” 

“Give yourself a bit of wriggle room in the mornings - otherwise it can be very stressful.” 

“Its okay to have toasted sandwiches for dinner.” 

“Don’t try to be supermum, there’s no such thing.” 

“It’s okay to miss your baby - and it’s okay not to miss them too.” 

“Enjoy having a small handbag to carry with you, which doesn’t have to 

contain nappys, wipes, toys, lunch, change of clothes etc.” 

“Pack your children’s bags, make your lunch and pick out everyone’s clothes for the next day, the night before.” 

“Get your house in order - organised, clean and in good repair.” 

“Get a crockpot - and prepare the meal the night before.” 

“Enjoy going to the toilet without an audience.” 

“Organise backup, there is nothing more stressful than sitting in Auckland traffic on your way to pick 

up your child from daycare and getting held up. If you have a friend or relative who can pickup your 

child for you on those odd times its a lifesaver.” 

“Have a real coffee and lunch break.” 

“If you are sitting in a meeting and go to speak and have a complete blank and forget what you 

were about to say thats quite normal . . . just make something up or pretend to sneeze!” 

Next month’s Top Tip topic is: 

“Toilet Training” 

Email your top tip or topic ideas to capc.newslettereditor@gmail.com 


IN THE KITCHEN 

Bonnie Peters - Natural Yummies 

I have three children with food allergies and intolerances. As I could not just buy packet food for them, it was 

imperative that I found recipes I could use. Over the past 14 years I have spent countless hours adapting and 

creating new recipes and the end result has been my two cookbooks which I hope will help other families. All 

recipes use inexpensive and accessible ingredients and are very simple and quick to make. Although focused 

on food allergies such as gluten, dairy, sugar etc they are equally as good for parents who want their children 

to eat healthier. www.naturalyummies.co.nz 

Egg-less Carrot and Nut Cake 

Ingredients 

1 ½ cups rice flour 2 tsp cinnamon powder 

½ cup sunflower seeds, very finely chopped ½ cup ground almonds 

2 cups grated carrots ¼ cup sliced almonds 

¼ cup chopped cashews 

¼ cup arrowroot powder 

½ a tsp pure vanilla essence 

1 cup orange juice 

Method 

Mix together the rice flour, cinnamon, sunflower seeds, ground almonds and arrowroot together. Stir in 

the vanilla essence, nuts and carrot. 

Add the fruit juice and mix well. It should have the consistency of a thick batter. 

Pour into a well oiled cake tin and bake on 180° C for about 1 and a half hours or until a testing stick comes 

out clean. 

Let cool completely before removing from the cake tin. 

Advertising Rates 

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Central Auckland Parent Centre (CAPC) is a voluntary organisation run by parents for parents. In order 

to produce this newsletter we rely on advertisers to help pay for the production costs. Our newsletter is 

distributed to approximately 350 families in the Central Auckland area. 

NEWSLETTER ADVERTISING RATES inc GST 

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Insert in Course Packs: $55 - 

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36 


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Newsletter Aug-Sept 2012 - Parents Centres New Zealand Inc

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