When I heard about a new pop up play centre for under 5’s opening up at Stockland Bull Creek Shopping Centre, I just HAD to check it out! Emma Orchard, founder of Fun HQ, invited me to come along on the opening day. Read on for all the details, plus there’s an exclusive Melville Mums discount.
As you enter Fun HQ, the space is light, bright and colourful, and the first thing kids see is a bridge and large walkway with slides plus a variety rockers and bouncy riding toys to choose from. There’s also a wooden teepee that makes a perfect hiding nook and space that is sure to spark plenty of imaginative play.
At the far end, there is a massive ball pit that the little ones will absolutely love, and there’s ample space for several children to enjoy it at the same time. There’s also a separate up and down roller coaster if you have a little thrill-seeker on your hands.
View from the far end of the play centre Kids up and down roller coasterThere’s a massive ball pit that’s sure to be a hit with the little ones!
Along the length of one wall are several large, comfy sofas that provide a great spot to sit back, relax and catch up with friends (or meet new ones) while keeping an eye on the little ones.
Time to take a break
Just outside the entrance, there’s a small area with a high table and stools plus a smaller table for the kids. This is where you can take a break from the fun and replenish those energy reserves. There are plenty of food and beverage options nearby including Baker’s Delight, The Coffee Club and Sushi Master.
There are no toilets within the play centre itself, but the shopping centre toilets and baby change facilities are only a short stroll around the corner.
Seating area just outside the entranceOwner Emma has created a space that allows kids to have fun while parents sit back and relax
With current COVID-19 guidelines, there is a limit of approximately 30 people within the space so it’s advised to contact Fun HQ in advance if you intend to visit as part of a mothers group etc. Regular cleaning is carried out on all the equipment so you can rest assured that your little one is playing in a clean, safe environment.
So, if you love play centres but don’t love how they are mostly designed with older children in mind, Fun HQ is the perfect place that is exclusively created for under 5’s.
Essential details
Where: Stockland Bull Creek Shopping Centre (opposite Woolworths) When: Monday 3rd August – Monday 31st August Opening times: Monday – Friday 9.30am – 2.30pm Regular prices: $7 (1-5 yrs); $4 (sibling); Under 1’s are FREE Payment: Cash and Square (tap and go) payments accepted
Special Offer – Mention Melville Mums and receive the discounted price of $4 (1-5 yrs) and $2 (siblings)
Whether you have a Sports Dad or a Cultured Dad on your hands, thanks to Westfield Booragoon, we’ve got an awesome roundup of gift ideas guaranteed to wow him! Plus, we’re giving you the chance to win a $250 Aquila gift card!
Let’s face it, dads (and let’s not get started on grandads) are up there with the toughest family members to buy presents for. With Father’s Day on the horizon, we’re here to make life easier with gifting ideas for every kind of dad. Whether you have a Sports Dad or a Cultured Dad on your hands, here’s our roundup of gift ideas guaranteed to wow him.
Dad About Town
Identifying features: Fond of a cufflink, always smells nice, knows more about artisanal beer than you do.
A classic cologne is a solid idea for Dad About Town. Try Prada’s Luna Rossa Black available at Myer and David Jones, which could well become his new signature scent plus bonus points for the trés chic bottle. Other options for this dad include buying him aftershave or shower gel in his tried and true favourite scent, a cool, well-designed chess set if he has a competitive streak from Gamesworld or headphones for seeing out those deadline days at work – head to JB Hi-Fi or the Apple Store.
Sport-Mad Dad
Identifying features: Has a pedometer app and is not afraid to use it, voluntarily signs up for half marathons, is currently considering Jiu Jitsu classes.
Does he already own a FitBit? If not, run, don’t walk, to JB Hi-Fi – these remain the accessory du jour for athletes everywhere. With this on his arm, dad will soon get addicted to tracking everything from his daily steps to the quality of his sleep. You’re spoilt for choice for this dad, as sports gear will always be welcome. Head to The Athlete’s Foot and replenish his gym shoes, he will thank you for the new kicks when that 6am alarm goes off.
Cultured Dad
Identifying features: Plays an instrument, owns a set of charcoal pencils, cares about fonts.
This guy is a dream to shop for. All you need to do is head to your nearest craft supplier like Kmart or The Reject Shop and stock up on homemade craft activities, or buy him a fun set of Lego to build with the kids. But because it’s Father’s Day and he’s probably a bit sentimental, why not try getting a photo framed for the occasion?
Shed-Tinkering Dad
Identifying features: Owns a tool belt, really likes upcycling barrels or palettes, rarely comes inside the house when he’s home.
How about a Bluetooth speaker that has a decent range for those long nights in the shed? JB Hi-Fi have you covered. You can even find waterproof and shockproof ones that will make his tinkering all the more enjoyable. Good quality work socks from Myer will make his projects more comfortable.
Foodie Dad
Identifying features: Knows his pork hock from his pork belly, buys eggplants seasonally, has a cookbook collection.
This dad likely already has everything he needs in the kitchen department, but if there are any gaps, some great ideas are a hand blender, a fancy garnish grater, or a great new release cookbook to add to his collection from House, Wheel & Barrow or Matchbox. Another option is to focus on the meals that he eats outside the house. Does he have a cool bento-style lunchbox and lunch bag? A favourite reusable coffee cup? He’ll thank you for buying him fun, quality products he will use on the daily lunch run.
Stylish Dad
Identifying features: Owns multiple hair products, enjoys patterned, brightly coloured socks, uses all available wardrobe space.
This guy knows what he likes and appreciates quality when he sees it. A beautiful leather satchel? Tick. Head to David Jones for something in classic black or rich brown tones. What about a wardrobe update? A beautiful shirt from the likes of Gazman or yd., or new jeans from Universal Store or new smart casual kicks from Aquila will always be welcome. If you’re not confident choosing, (shout out to all the picky dads out there), why not take him on a shopping spree with a Westfield Gift Card, which you can purchase at Westfield Booragoon’s Concierge.
Happy shopping! No matter the dad, now is your chance to spoil him with a thoughtful gift he will love. You’ve got this!
WIN a $250 Aquila Gift Card!
This Father’s Day, spoil your dad or with a gift from Aquila, the leading men’s footwear brand in Australia. We’re giving you the chance to win a $250 Aquila gift card to spend at the Westfield Booragoon store.
How to Enter
Facebook Entry
All you need to do is like the giveaway post on the Melville Mums Facebook page and tell us in the comments who you’ll be spending the gift card on. Don’t forget to like the Melville Mums page and tag a friend. One entry per person. Bonus entry via the Instagram giveaway post.
Instagram Entry
All you need to do is like the giveaway post on the Melville Mums Instagram feed, follow Melville Mums and Westfield Booragoon then tell us in the comments who you’ll be spending the gift card and tag a friend. One entry per person. Bonus entry via the Facebook giveaway post.
If you live in the local area (City of Melville and surrounds), come and join us in the Melville Mums Facebook group to meet like-minded mums and seek recommendations on the best local services, places to go and things to do.
Melville Mums Aquila Gift Card Giveaway – Terms & Conditions
To be eligible, entrants must be 18+ and live within 20km of Westfield Booragoon.
The promotion commences at 12pm AWST on 28 July 2020 and concludes at 5pm AWST on 5 August 2020.
The promotion is a Game of Chance, and the winner will be selected at random on 6 August 2020. There will be one (1) winner.
Prize details: 1 x $250 Aquila gift card.
The winner will be announced on the Melville Mums Facebook/Instagram pages on 6 August 2020. The winner will be notified via Facebook/Instagram message.
Prizes are not transferable and not redeemable for cash. If the winner does not accept the prize by the time stipulated, Melville Mums reserves the right to select another winner.
This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by or associated with Facebook or Instagram.
Today’s Q & A session is with Taryn Watson, Women’s Health & Continence Physiotherapist and founder of FitRight. Taryn shares what inspired her to start her own business and how becoming a mum has changed her perspective on the challenges of keeping fit and active.
Hi, Taryn. Please tell us a bit about yourself
I am a physiotherapist with a masters degree in Women’s Health & Continence Physiotherapy – in other words, a pelvic floor guru! I have a particular interest in pre and postnatal health & exercise.
I have two children, a nearly four year old son and an 8 month old daughter, and although I worked as a Women’s Health Physiotherapist for nearly a decade before having children, motherhood has given me a whole new perspective on the challenges of keeping fit and active at this time of life!
I’ve lived in the Melville area nearly my whole life! I grew up in Bull Creek and, after a stint in London, I came back home and got married and we settled in Mount Pleasant. I have also always worked in this area, seeing patients at SJOG Murdoch and running exercise classes in Ardross.
What inspired you to start FitRight?
Right from the days of being a new graduate physiotherapist, I knew that I wanted to work with women during and after pregnancy. I love being part of the motherhood journey, it’s such a privilege and so rewarding!
I became a clinical pilates instructor in 2008 and started running regular studio and aqua exercise classes. I quickly realised the high demand for services like this, run by physiotherapists with extra training in pre and postnatal exercise who run small group classes and include education throughout.
My classes were always fully booked with a waitlist and there weren’t many other classes in Perth to refer on to. So after living in London for a while, I got back and started my dream – to make services like this more widespread and easily accessible. I initially had four other physiotherapists on board and now have over 30 contracted to run FitRight exercise and education classes!
What makes FitRight different to other physio/pilates classes?
I have worked hard to make sure that FitRight remains the gold standard in exercise classes for women. The physiotherapist instructors have the same women in their class each week for a six week course and not only do they know them by name, they know their medical background, birth history, pelvic floor strength etc. – and they tailor the classes specifically to suit them.
We call the things that make us unique ‘The FitRight Difference’:
Led by experienced physiotherapists
Pelvic floor and abdominal muscle assessment with a physiotherapist is a pre-requisite
All classes are low impact, and have many different levels of exercise options
Rebatable on private health
Community volunteers on hand at Baby&Me and Toddler&Me classes to care for your child/children.
How you have adapted in light of the COVID-19 situation?
COVID-19 has been a crazy time! Back in March, in the space of two weeks, we had to cancel all of our classes and create a new branch of the business called FitRight Online.
FitRight Online classes are run for pregnant women, new Mums and women of any age, in the same way as our Studio and Aqua classes – in six week courses, with small group numbers, and with a physiotherapist instructor who knows your history. The classes are run live via Zoom so that the physiotherapist can see you as you exercise and make corrections.
Thank goodness, about twelve months earlier, I had also created a private Facebook group for members – this online library of workouts and education resources was accessed by a record number of women during lockdown!
So, what’s next for FitRight?
There is something BIG in the pipeline actually… as well as continuing the exercise classes, education workshops and online resources that we currently provide, FitRight is planning to open a clinic where women can come and have their assessments! It will be called FitRight HQ, and will be in the Melville area. It will be a Centre for Women’s Health – a place where you can see Women’s Health Physios, Musculoskeletal Physios, a Lactation Consultant, an OT who can treat your Caesarean scar, and more, all in the one clinic!
As a mum to two young children, do you manage to squeeze in a bit of ‘me-time’?
I have found it very challenging over my motherhood journey to prioritise me-time! As a small business owner, my free time is often filled with work!
But I am trying very hard to prioritise little pieces of ‘me-time’ during the week, and my favourites are a refreshing power walk along the river, reading a Home Beautiful magazine with a cup of coffee or going out for dinner and drinks every couple of weeks with girlfriends!
What are some of your favourite places to go or things to do in the local area?
Once a week, I work in a co working office up at Heathcote. That has got to be the most beautiful place in Perth! I absolutely love going for a lunchtime walk around the riverfront there.
I also spend a lot of time at Deep Water Point and Point Walter with my kids. My three year old much prefers nature play to playgrounds and we have spent so many hours splashing and exploring. It’s particularly special because I also grew up in this area and I have fond memories of doing exactly the same things when I was a child!
If you loved this post, check out our Getting to Know… blog series, which features local mums and business owners.
If you’re keen to get out and about on the weekend, a market is a great place to pick up secondhand items, fresh produce, handmade items and gifts.Here are just some of the local markets that run on a regular basis.
Kardinya Markets
Where: 1 – 15 South St, Kardinya (Kardinya Park Shopping Centre car park) When: Sundays 6am – 10am More info: www.facebook.com/kardinyamarkets/
Melville Markets
Where: Waddell Rd (Cnr Canning Hwy), Bicton (Hawaiian’s Melville car park) When: Sundays 6am – 10am More details:www.facebook.com/melvillemarkets
If I had to describe in one word what meditation has done for me it would be ‘Balance‘.
My life with a busy family is constantly keeping me challenged – physically, emotionally and mentally. Introducing meditation has given me the ability to bring balance into my life on a daily basis.
It has given me better coping skills with daily issues that arise and I feel I am a better person to those around me, having more patience and being less emotionally reactive.
Supporting my emotional and mental health has in turn improved my physical health in areas of pain, strengthened immunity, blood pressure, fatigue and sleep. More importantly, I feel I am a better person to myself – less judgemental, less stressed and more rational.
I feel, see and appreciate what meditation does for me everyday, so I am committed to regular practice and integrating it into my daily routine. However, if there is a day when I am unable to meditate, I do not berate myself or feel frustrated. I accept it is not to be and move on.
My Practice
My meditation practice each day occurs in several different ways, what I like to describe as formal and informal.
I begin each day with a 10 – 20 minute meditation seated in a quiet space in my home, prior to the family arising. Meditating at this time prepares me for the day. If my sleep has been disturbed, or unsettled, meditating upon waking helps to ‘clear the clutter’ and release the mental fatigue that comes with broken sleep. It also helps to bring me clarity and as a result I find I am more productive in tasks.
Using Spot Meditations
I also do many ‘spot meditations’ throughout the day. These spot mediations happen in several ways.
If sitting in the car at traffic lights, or waiting in a queue at the supermarket, I will do three sighs, immediately feeling the tension and stress released from my body. These spot meditations bring me back to the present when I am trying to multi task and have many thoughts going through my head.
By stopping to do the breath, it releases any tension in my shoulders, neck and face, interrupts the constant stream of thought, and allows me to take a moment to reset and come back to focusing on one thing at a time. Doing this allows me to more present and a lot more productive.
My second short or spot meditation is when I am walking. I find when I am busy I tend to walk ‘anxiously’ or ‘highly aroused’, often catching my reflection and being surprised at my hunched shoulders, tense posture and stiff, jerky movements.
I now try to walk ‘consciously’, being more aware of my body and softening the muscles and movements. I do this by sighing deliberately three times and then focusing my attention first on my face, then shoulders, hips and legs. I immediately feel the tension lessen, my body soften and my movements flow more. It feels so lovely to ‘glide’ in my walking rather than be jerky, and I feel my posture improve allowing the breath to flow more freely too.
The Benefits
Meditation is a skill that I believe has been an integral part of my personal growth in the past 18 months. I feel that the physical and mental benefits I have gained have not only improved my life, but also the lives of those around me. I am committed to supporting myself, my family and those that I associate with in my oils business, in all areas of health and wellness. I believe that we need to look at all areas of our lifestyle in order to do this – sleep, diet, physical activity and toxic load within our daily activities. My regular meditation practice has helped with:
How we feel physically, mentally and emotionally determines the state of our overall health and wellbeing. My journey with essential oils has presented me with the opportunity to support and encourage others to be more proactive in their health. My intention moving forward is to introduce my community to the benefits of combining meditation and essential oils as tool to support their physical and emotional health.
The essential oils I use have many benefits such as:
Immune and respiratory support
Relieve sleeplessness and quieten a busy mind
Reduce feelings of sadness and anxiety
Promote emotional balance
Lessen stress and tension
Calm emotions
Enhance and support focus
Muscle support
Digestive support
One can draw parallels between the benefits of mediation and essential oils. I believe that through my regular meditation practice, it has allowed my body to be more receptive to the oils.
What I hope to achieve through meditation personally and professionally comes down to one thing – being able to teach others the skill and benefits of meditation, and encourage them to make it part of their daily routine in order to bring more clarity, balance and less stress into their lives.
Guided Meditation Classes
Meditation is quite simple but many are reluctant or hesitant to start, thinking it is unattainable to ’empty’ their mind, and find it difficult to get started or maintain their practice on their own. Meditation is not about thinking of nothing or clearing the mind, but more about choosing a focus for your attention and simply observing your own thought processes.
At Serenity classes, you will be welcomed into a soothing, calm environment where you will be gently guided through breath and restorative meditations. Each class has a focus oil to compliment and enhance your meditation and relaxation, finishing with cacao treats and herbal tea.
Ideal for taking some time to reconnect with yourself and like minded people!
Would you like to start a meditation practice, or maybe strengthen your current one? Whether new to meditation, a seasoned meditator or somewhere in between, SWC meditation classes and perfect for any level. Let me help you create the calm you crave through online or studio meditation classes.
Narelle is the founder of Serenity Wellness Collective and Meraki Essence and believes in a collaborative approach to supporting both physical and mental health. She is a meditation teacher, doTERRA wellness advocate and mum to three children with a passion to support mental and physical wellbeing through natural alternatives.
Narelle is a dedicated practitioner of mindfulness and meditation and through weekly classes and retreats loves to share her passion for meditation with others. She has completed the Certificate of Mindfulness Teaching (Perth Meditation Centre) , Level 1 of STM training with Tracy Whitton and is currently studying Meditation Teaching and Holistic Human Development through Higher Branches College.
Narelle credits her own daily practice to living a life with enhanced mental clarity and focus, improved immunity, better quality sleep and strengthened emotional regulation and balance.
Through SWC Narelle organises and hosts events, workshops, one day retreats and classes with natural health practitioners and motivational speakers, bringing together a collaboration of natural therapies for the community to experience.
Narelle’s contribution to the community also includes charity events hosted three times a year with a guest speaker to share their story and bring awareness to different areas of health.
To stay up to date with all things Serenity Wellness Collective, you can follow Narelle on Facebook and Instagram.
Next up in the Melville Mums “Getting to Know…” blog series, we chat with Jules O’Driscoll, founder and head therapist at Sole Revival, about all things skincare and how the COVID-19 situation has changed her business for the better.
Hi, Jules. Can you please tell us a bit about yourself?
I moved from Scotland back to Perth to spend time with my daughter and my three gorgeous grandchildren, who I absolutely adore. I miss all my friends terribly at times. You don’t realise how many networks you have until they are gone (school, college, university, jobs, other mums, family), but it’s worth it and many of the clients I meet have gone on to become great friends. I’m definitely a people person and that’s one of the reasons I love my work so much.
What inspired you to start Sole Revival?
I couldn’t find a job that catered to my skills. I work very differently from the typical therapist. Every client is unique and every treatment and product should be chosen to match their skin concerns and goals. I research everything and will only use top quality products that deliver results. I have an Ayurvedic Vegan range and a medical grade range. I’m holistic and hi-tech and the combination works very well.
What are your top skincare tips?
Be consistent, regular treatments can not only correct your skin but prevent issues from arising and, if you do nothing else, at least cleanse and hydrate am and pm with good quality products. We are seeing a rise in people being more mindful of what they use on their skin as they realise how important it is. I know the product ingredients and what they do so I can tailor every treatment specifically for you. If I wouldn’t use it on myself, then I wouldn’t use it on you.
Has the COVID-19 situation affected business? Have you had to do things differently over the past few months?
I quickly switched to online consultations and spent a lot of time brushing up my skills and doing online training. And I was finally brave enough to do what I always wanted to do and create a bespoke treatment menu, where you book your time and we deliver the treatment that’s best for you. It’s exciting and I have the COVID shut down to thank for that. I had put off doing it as I thought I would lose clients, but it’s been amazing!
So, what’s next for Sole Revival?
After revamping the website and throwing out the traditional menu, I also introduced new medical grade treatments that are really delivering great results. Every treatment is now customised. I’ve never been busier – clients love it and so do I. It’s so rewarding.
What are some of your favourite places or things to do in the local area?
I think we have an abundance of local places that are unique. One of my favourite places to go to is Sensations Cafe in Ardross – the food is so healthy and delicious. I love taking my dog to all the local parks and walks around the river. I’m looking forward to the warmer weather coming in and meeting up with family and friends for picnics and barbecues. We have so much on our doorstep – I can’t wait to explore more of Perth.
Where can we find you?
I am in Winthrop, and I regularly keep clients in the loop with social media posts on Instagram and Facebook.
How can our mums learn more about Sole Revival and what you offer?
You can follow us on social media or sign up to our VIP mailing list. VIPs always get to know about any gifts or specials first. I don’t bombard you (Mother’s Day, Xmas etc.) You’ll probably only get 5 or 6 newsletters a year and 80% of the time, there’s a gift or special included 🙌
Browse our local business directory to find beauty services near you and check out exclusive offers.
We made the most of the glorious winter weather and headed down to the Dinosaur Park, a small local play space that has more than meets the eye!
If you haven’t yet ventured to the Dinosaur Park in Palmyra, you’re missing out! Even though the park is quite small, there’s still plenty to keep the little ones and big kids occupied.
When you arrive, you’re greeted by two colourful dinosaurs that all the kids absolutely loved to climb on and slide down.
For the younger ones, there’s a playground with sandpit, slide and nest swing, but there’s no shade sail so it could get quite hot in the summer months.
There’s a path that goes around the perimeter, which provides a safe way for kids to practise their cycling skills or, as my boys did, have speed trials and races. Along the path, kids can spot several ‘fossils’ that add another great feature and element of surprise.
The older ones can make use of a basketball hoop, plus there’s a large grassy area to kick a ball around or have a picnic, with natural shade provided by the tree cover.
Essential Info
Fenced? No Toilets? No Picnic tables? Yes BBQs? No Nearest coffee Oushk (less than 1 minute walk)
Parents seek child care for a multitude of reasons. You may be going back to work, wanting your child to engage and socialise with other children, preparing them for school, or perhaps you are in need of a break, or all of the above. Remember the old adage: “It takes a village to raise a child”.
In my experience, common issues that parents face when looking for child care include:
Lack of care or quality care available in your local area or at highly sought-after centres.
You feel anxious or worried about leaving your child with “strangers”.
Finding care whose values are aligned with yours.
I feel that quality child care is as much of an art as it is a science. I think back to when I was searching for child care for my children. I wanted them to be loved and have fun in a safe environment- but foremost, I wanted them to socialise and have fun. When you are ready to make this tough decision, go ahead and ask for a tour of your shortlisted establishments and bring with you all your 5 senses as you will unconsciously need them to help you in the decision making process.
I feel that there are many benefits to having your child attend a child care service. Some of these benefits include:
1) Identity development – He or she can find his or her own identity away from you – eg. Forming bonds with people outside your family & therefore experiencing new personalities;
2) Social development – human beings learn from other human beings, so being around other children of similar ages, but from different backgrounds, can expose your child to valuable social interaction. This is where they learn to negotiate, show empathy, make friends and ultimately leads to further development of their own personality;
3) Independence for parents – Having your child settled into a loving, nurturing & stimulating service, means that you can return to work, maintain the home, or look after your own physical and mental health.
The quality that each different establishment is able to offer greatly varies from meeting the minimum requirements to services that offer teaching and experiences well beyond the minimum.
Some important points that could help you decide on an establishment are:
What is the maximum number of children in the centre
Consider if your child needs one-on-one care or care in a small group
Opening hours
How well they communicate with you;
How organised the business is
General cleanliness and tidiness
General quality of resources and playground
Meal and food offerings
How warm the staff are towards you and your child
The quality of its curriculum and activities
After using both your head and your heart in this process, you are then ready to decide on the type of care and which service you feel is best for you and your child. Best of luck!
Stephanie is a Speech Pathologist by profession, passionate owner of Amare Child Care in Bassendean, owner of soon-to-be-open Wool and Thimble School of Early Learning in Melville, mother to two fun-loving children, and wife to an understanding husband. During the week (and most weekends too), you’ll find Steph at Amare Child Care, ensuring all of our parents, children & staff are happy, healthy and well-looked after. Steph has also been meeting parents in the Melville area, dropping off enrolment packs for her new centre, due to open in late August/early September 2020. On the weekends, Steph and her family enjoy family hikes, camping and adventure sports – just generally being outdoors. Steph and her staff are passionate about providing a space where children are loved and nurtured, to give them a magical start to their lives. They look forward to continuing this dream at Wool and Thimble School of Early Learning. Stay up to date with all things Wool and Thimble via their Facebook and Instagram pages.
Looking for ideas on how to keep the kids entertained over the Winter School Holidays? We’ve partnered with some great local businesses to bring you our July School Holidays Activity Guide.Don’t forget to mention Melville Mums when booking!
Active Gym
Active Gymnastics offers a holiday program for children aged 5yr+. Children can choose from either a morning, afternoon or all day session. Morning sessions will include gymnastics, games and crafts.
Bookings: www.activegym.com.au
Baby Sensory
SPECIAL OFFER – Attend 2 consecutive trial classes for $40 (selected classes only)
Baby Sensory Term 2 is running through the July school holidays! Our Jungle Jitters class and Winter Weather themes will keep you and baby engaged through the holiday break. Simply head to our website to book your place in any of our Term 2 classes. All prices are automatically calculated to only charge you for the remaining number of weeks left in the term. https://www.babysensory.com.au/southperth-wa/
Want to try it out before committing to a whole term?
Now offering 2 consecutive trial classes for $40, in selected TERM 2 classes: Mondays 10:30am at Melville for 0-9 month olds Wednesdays 9:30am at Melville for 3-13 month olds Wednesdays 12:30am at Melville for 0-9 month olds Thursdays at 1pm at East Vic Park for 0-13 month olds
Buds and Blooms
SPECIAL OFFER – 10% discount when you mention Melville Mums
A holiday program for girls to express creatively while connecting mindfully with others in a safe, supportive and nurturing environment.
Buds sessions for girls K-Yr 6 creating magical flower crowns, fairy gardens, fairy attractor wall hangings and a bouquet of flowers in a vase.
Blooms sessions for girls Yr 6-Yr 10 creating beautiful fresh flower crowns, dreamcatchers, succulent gardens and a raw crystal mandala.
Sessions run for 3 hours in a beautiful garden and studio setting in East Fremantle. Each session starts with a gentle meditation, a reflective sharing time, mindfully producing their gorgeous creation in a non-competitive environment, baking a treat to share as a group to end our session.
Please contact Julie 0413411865 for more information.
Sessions start at $70 for 3 hours with all inclusions.
SPECIAL OFFER – 10% discount when you mention Melville Mums
CircusWA
School is out, Zoom is off and circus is in the Big Top! Kids will love to learn new skills, play with other circus enthusiasts and get active in our great school holiday program.
Winter Circus Programs for all Monday 6th – Friday 17th July
Flip and Fly Circus for ages 5 to 8
Encourage your kids to flip and fly with CircusWA this winter holidays. They will love the non-stop fun as they clown around, play with other circus enthusiasts, and get active. Our professional circus artists will guide your kids safely as they learn a variety of circus skills: spinning plates, flower sticks, hula hoops, aerial trapeze, trampoline, tight-wire and acrobatics. Watch and experience the benefits of circus skills as they grow your child’s hand-eye coordination, flexibility and strength.
When: July 8, 9, 10 all sessions from 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM Cost: $29.00 / session or $75 / full course
3 Days at the Big Top for ages 7 to 12
School is out, but Circus is in! If you’ve ever wanted to know what it’s like to be a circus performer then this workshop is for you! Learn or improve your skills in Unicycle, Juggling, Acrobatics, Static Trapeze, Rope and more. On the last day, perform in your own circus show for an audience of friends and family.
When: July 13 ,14 and 15 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 12:45PM-2:45PM Cost: Running as 2 sessions per day. $90 for 3 days of 1 session (eg. 3 mornings) $160 for 3 days all sessions (3 mornings and 3 afternoons). Use the code DOUBLETROUBLE to book all sessions for $160
Big Top Circus Skills for Kids for ages 7 to 12
Come and find out what it’s like to learn and play under the Freo Big Top. A great opportunity to explore skills in acrobatics, aerials, tightwire and juggling. Two sessions to choose from, or do both days for maximum benefit. WARNING! your children may get hooked on circus.
When: July 6 & 7 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Cost: $30/session or $60/course
Boys Circus for ages 8+
Climbing high, challenging gravity, and risk taking can be the natural calling for many boys. Rather than protect them from this, why not bring them to a place which shares this calling – The Circus! In our specially designed program your boys will learn how to fulfil their ambitions within a safe environment surrounded by inspirational circus men. Circus is a dynamic activity filled with a multitude of exciting feats of physicality to choose from. In this three session program we’ll introduce participants to the circus arts of Tumbling, Trampoline, Chinese pole, Rope and Group Acrobatics. When:July 8, 9 and 10 from 1PM – 3PM Cost: $90/ full course
Intro to Aerials for ages 8+
Ever wondered what it’s like to move above adoring crowds? Our 3 session progressive aerial intensive will introduce participants to static trapeze and aerial silk. In this class you will cover techniques for building strength, flexibility and coordination and then be guided through a number of movements to ascend, descend and control your apparatus When: July 8, 9 and 10 from 10:45AM – 12:45PM Cost: $90/ full course
Intro to Acrobatics for ages 8+ New to acrobatics and no gymnastics training? Want to enhance your physical strength while learning new spectacular skills, then this is the class for you. During this three session introduction you’ll learn the fundamentals of tumbling, body movement, acro-balance and trampoline. When: July 8, 9 and 10 from 10:45AM – 12:45PM Cost: $90/ full course
Chinese Pole Reboot (10+) Open Level (not suitable for absolute beginners)
A post COVID-19 circus skills reboot for intermediate level Chinese pole students. When: July 7, 8 and 9 from 6:45PM – 7:45PM Cost: $30/session or $80/ full course
Aerials Reboot Intermediate level
A post COVID-19 circus skills reboot for intermediate level aerials students. When: July 7, 8 and 9 from 5:15PM – 6:45PM Cost: $35/session or $85/ full course
Acrobatics Reboot Intermediate level
A post COVID-19 circus skills reboot for intermediate level acrobatics students. When: July 7, 8 and 9 from 5:15PM – 6:45PM Cost: $35/session or $85/ full course
Where parents find fun school holiday camps and activities, that empower your kids to design, code and create, and spark a passion so they can go and change the world with a smile on their face. More than 90,000 kids have loved Code Camp so far!
Your 5 to 12-year-old will have the most fun and epic journey learning the skills of the future! Each course is designed to empower your kids to design, code, and problem-solve, as they create their very own apps, games and websites.
Face-to-face sessions are being held at All Saints’ College, or you can enrol in their new virtual holiday camps.
Head to the Code Camp website for all the course details and to enrol.
Elite Cricket Training
Special Offer 1 – mention Melville Mums at time of booking and bring a friend along free to the first session! That means two for one if this is your first session with us.
Special Offer 2 – mention Melville Mums at time of booking and receive $10 off an additional one-on-one coaching session before or after the program (normally $25, now $15 for the 45 minute session).
Get the kids into some healthy activity and the chance to improve their skills and knowledge of cricket. Half and Full Day sessions run every weekday of the School Holidays from just $35 per person!
Our morning programs run for 3 hours – 9:00am-12:00pm and include warmup & Warm down, 4X30minute sessions plus morning tea. Where possible, we will place students of similar age/ability in smaller groups with appropriate exercises and activities. Students can also receive an additional 1-on-1 skill specific 45min session before or after any half-day program for $25 per session.
Our full day programs run every weekday of the school holidays for 7 hours – 9am-4:00pm. Each program is structured around a number of 25-40 minute skill specific sessions plus morning, afternoon tea and a healthy lunch.
Where possible, we will place students of similar age/ability in smaller groups with appropriate exercises and activities.
We rotate the activities and the theory sessions for the full day sessions so that students can take up multiple consecutive or non-consecutive days at a discounted rate and receive complementary instruction with minimal repetition.
Students can also receive an additional 1-on-1 skill specific 45min session before or after any day program for $25 per session.
We offer early drop off (8.30am) and late pickup (5.00pm). For extended times beyond these please consult staff as we can organise activities but advance notice is required and a small fee may be attached.
We have a number of programs in place, however, we are happy to set up a customised programme for a group at time of booking where specific areas of development are of interest.
If you are booking for a group of 5 or more, we will discount the day rate by 15%.
All programs are designed and overseen by Cricket Australia qualified coaches, and all ECT staff involved with the programs have Working with Children cards and Senior First Aid.
We also offer pickup and drop off services from Cockburn Central train station or your home in our 7 seat commercial passenger licensed and insured ECT vehicle. There is an additional charge for this service depending on distance from the centre and number of players requiring pickup. Please enquire for more information.
Special Offer 1 – mention Melville Mums at time of booking and bring a friend along free to the first session! That means two for one if this is your first session with us.
Special Offer 2 – mention Melville Mums at time of booking and receive $10 off an additional one-on-one coaching session before or after the program (normally $25, now $15 for the 45 minute session).
Fighting Power Gym
FREE School Holiday Program!
It’s terrifying how children are impacted by BULLYING! Seeing all these news articles on how VIOLENT schools have become makes us as parents feel helpless!!!!
ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! We have made a stance to educate parents and children to STAND STRONG Against Bullying.
We are running an exclusive FREE Anti-bullying and Self Defence Program during the school holidays!
SPOTS ARE LIMITED
We have a PROVEN method to help your child develop the resilience and confidence to not become a VICTIM!
The kids will LEARN:
Who to turn to for help
How to build confidence
How to deal with bullying
How to stand up for themselves
Simple but practical self-defence
THE PROGRAM WILL INCLUDE;
Anti-bullying
Thai Boxing basics & fundamentals
Self Defence
Strength & Fitness
Team building & challenges
Dodgeball
Games, prizes & more
Tuesday 7th and 14th July Thursday 9th and 16th July
4 to 8 year olds 10am to 11am 9 to 16 year olds 11am to 12pm
Attend as many classes as you would like. Contact us to register.
Workshop Title: Kids Get Crafty: School Holiday Workshop (2 – 5 years)
Workshop Theme: Elmer the Elephant
Workshop Description: Inspired by David McKee’s colourful creation, Elmer, Kids Get Crafty brings a workshop based on the original storybook and illustrations. Join your child as they create a herd of patterned elephants, a moving parts picture and a gorgeous tote bag. Participants can expect to learn skills in art + crafts, including:
– Fine motor control and scissor skills – Basic colour theory – Sponge painting – Stencilling – Fabric panting – Basic design process
No prior experience necessary.
As this is an extended class, we will break midway for some games and refreshment to allow for little attention spans.
Parent Participation: Required
Location: Heathcote Cultural Precinct – 58 Duncraig Road, Applecross
Workshop Duration: 1.5 hours
Price: $55 – All materials provided in class
Participants Take Home: An individually designed and painted fabric tote bag, sponge painted Elmer the Elephant and friends, a moving parts picture.
What to Bring: All materials and equipment provided in class.
SPECIAL OFFER – Mention Melville Mums to receive a free Kidz ‘n Sport footy
Boys and Girls, come and have heaps of fun at a Kidz ‘n Sport Holiday Program.
In small groups, kids are taken through a wide range of games and activities aimed at developing catching, throwing, running, agility as well as learning the skills of AFL footy, hockey, netball and soccer.
Build your confidence, make new friends and have a ball doing it.
Dates: Monday 13th – Friday 17th July Venue: Marmion Reserve, Myaree Ages: 3 – 8 years Time: 9:30am – 11:00am (3-4 yr olds) 9:30am – 12:30pm (5-8 yr olds)
SPECIAL OFFER – Mention Melville Mums to receive a free Kidz ‘n Sport footy
Keep your kids active these school holidays with tennis camps at East Fremantle Lawn Tennis Club for kids age 4-14 years . The tennis camps are our most popular programs – the kids love it and can’t help but improve with the number of balls they hit during the week!
You can enrol your child for a full week or pick and choose any number of days to suit your schedule. There are even half-mornings for the younger children to attend.
We will also be running our Advanced Junior Clinic at East Fremantle LTC to cater for 9 to 16 year olds participating in pennants and/or tournaments.
Head to the Tennis Factory website for all the details and to enrol in our July school holiday programs.
The Dance Collective
Find out where hip hop came from, how it evolved, learn the foundation moves, discover your freestyle and finish with a choreographed piece to perform at the end!
Hip Hop Intensive Holiday Workshops Thursday 16 July
Or call 0448 788 346 to speak to one of our friendly team members.
YOGAZEIT
SPECIAL OFFER – Receive 10% off when you mention Melville Mums
This mindful Yoga and Art Workshop empowers Tween Girls (aged approx 7-12) with practices to support:
Resilience
Body Awareness & Acceptance
Emotion Regulation
Connection & Community building
Kindness & Empathy
This three and a half hour School Holiday Workshop includes Yoga movement, Relaxation, Mindfulness Meditation (including activities to learn to design your own mindfulness), Art and Craft (we’ll use paint to support creative expression and will also design our own breathing bracelets/ mandalas) and much more.
BYO Mat, blanket/pillow, healthy and nutritious Morning Tea/lunch, water.
Strictly limited spots.
From $35 per child. Pricing Includes Yogini Tshirt
SPECIAL OFFER – Receive 10% off when you mention Melville Mums
Musical Play is a magical way to share joyful experiences with your children whilst providing them with a wealth of benefits in their early years. As we know, play is how children explore and begin to understand the world around them. Musical play provides opportunities for your child to not only learn about music but will also support all areas of their development whilst fostering creativity and imagination. Not to mention is it SO MUCH FUN!
“Play is the work of childhood”– Jean Piget
“Play is the highest form of research” – Albert Einstein
Benefits of Musical Play
Here are just a few reasons WHY musical play should be part of everyday life for young children:
Rhythm and rhyme help to prepare children for language and reading skills
Singing nursery rhymes and songs helps to expand vocabulary
Finger play songs and Wiggles help to develop important fine motor skills
Music can help to build the foundations for literacy and numeracy
Movement to music helps to strengthen gross motor skills, muscles, balance and spatial awareness
Music improves general mood and ability to concentrate
Music aids in the development of social and emotional competence
Before you start thinking, “It’s too hard”, “I can’t sing”, “I can’t play an instrument” …let me inspire you!
Everyday examples of Musical Play
Here are some ides of how easy it is to engage in musical play with your child at home and how you will expose them to different elements of music:
Narrate Your Day Using Songs
Use songs to commentate what you and your children are doing throughout the day e.g. bath time, getting dressed, in the highchair, hanging up the washing, going to the shops etc. This helps to reinforce and establish a routine and will provide comfort to your child as once they hear you singing a song, they will associate it with what will happen next. Also making up the silliest of songs and being spontaneous (even while doing the grocery shopping), will add a FUN FACTOR!
Wiggles & Tickles
Engage in Wiggles: rhymes where you wiggle each finger (or toes) in order from thumb to pinkie, or Tickles: rhymes that involve tickling body parts such as the tummy, feet or under the arm.
Keep Your Baby Engaged
When singing to babies make sure to face them and engage in eye contact to further strengthen your bond and create a special connection on an emotional level. They will love seeing your face, and their face will light up when they see you singing and playing with them!
Play Pretend
While you are playing with your child’s cuddly toys or teddies, you could pretend to put them to sleep by singing a lullaby. You could talk about why you might rock the cuddly toy slowly and gently, rather than fast and rough. This will help support their understanding of Tempo (speed) and Expression in music.
Experiment with Sounds
Encourage your children to bang on the pots and pans and include a variety of different types of materials such as ceramic, metal, or wooden utensils. This helps expose your child to Timbre (the character or quality of a musical sound).
High to Low
When your child is sliding down a slide, make sounds with your voice that slide from high to low, matching their movement. This helps to make a connection between physically being up high and sliding down low, with the concept of the Pitch of your voice. See if they can make similar sounds exploring their own voice. You can also try this activity while they are playing on a seesaw or swing.
Row, Row, Row Your Boat
Sit your child in a washing basket and rock it back and forth, while singing “Row your boat”. This fosters wonderful imaginative play! A washing basket can also be a car, an aeroplane…endless possibilities.
Encourage Exploration
Have a small collection of a variety of percussion instruments scattered around your play space for your child to explore and enjoy.
Use Books as Inspiration
Read your favourite books and think of instruments or things around the house that could create a sound effect for your story. “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” and “Alpacas with Maracas” are some of our favourites!
Get Bouncing!
Bounce your child on your knees while saying a simple nursery rhyme. You are providing your child with exposure to Beat and Rhythm. The beat being the bouncing up and down and the rhythm being the words you are saying. Older children can bounce their own teddy or soft toy on their lap in time with the beat while you both say the rhyme. See if they can do it themselves in time with the beat.
Play with Height & Pitch
While building a tower of blocks, you could play a pitched instrument such as a xylophone up the scale, so that as your child’s tower gets higher, the music you are playing gets higher. This will give your child a visual representation of the concept of Pitch (the degree of highness or lowness of a tone).
Create Patterns
Create patterns with things you can find around the back yard such as stones, rocks, sticks, flowers, leaves. Can you clap or tap these patterns? Creating patterns like these are laying the basis for the fundamentals of rhythm in the future.
Feel the Rhythm
If your child likes to “hammer” or “fix things”, build upon that by tapping different rhythms – short and fast or long and slow.
For older children, they could practise clapping your weekly shopping list e.g. Milk, eggs, apples, bread. Watermelon, grapes, butter, carrots. This also helps reinforce rhythmic concepts.
“A child who sings is a happy child.” – Enrique Falabella
There are so many wonderful musical play activities you can do with your children right in the comfort of your home. Sing, play, be in the moment, experiment, explore, imagine and share in the joy that music brings, together!
Michaela Ivory is a local mother of three children aged 8, 5 and 2, and is a music teacher passionate about the inclusion and importance of music in the early years. She teaches, “Crescendo” a community outreach music education program for the West Australian Symphony Orchestra at two primary schools in Perth’s south, as well as teaching her own early childhood music classes for 0-6 year olds, Nurturing Notes. Michaela has a double degree in Music and Education and holds a Level One Orff Schulwerk Certification, as well as a First Steps in Music Certification. She loves to share her passion with parents, teachers, educators, and families, through sharing her songs, rhymes and teaching ideas on her blog, as The Musical Mum.
