In 2009 my husband, seven month old son and I moved to Cairns in far north Queensland. Our arrival corresponded with the largest outbreak of dengue fever (a potentially fatal mosquito spread infection) the far north had ever seen. Dengue is not always present in Cairns and the authorities instituted emergency procedures in response to…
Last week concerns regarding a popular travel cot, the KidCo Peapod travel bed arose. As a result of incidents involving two children, Health Canada has issued warnings to parents to immediately cease sleeping children under the age of 12 months in the cot. In the USA the Consumer Product Safety Commission is investigating the…
Temperatures are heating up in Australia, and with the school holidays here families are spending more time in the sun. Parents of babies and small children often receive conflicting advice about how best to protect their children from the damaging affects of the sun. With that in mind I would like to share this…
Apologies to readers that have seen this article before. It was lost as a result of blog disruption and I am re-posting it. For those traveling internationally, an essential issue to discuss with your doctor at your pre-travel medical visit is vaccination. Vaccination often divides opinion, inciting strong emotional responses from parents and health carers…
There is a new interactive wildlife experience in Cairns that our family is really excited about. Zoo to You Wildlife Discovery Centre is located at Pier Market Place on the Esplanade (adjacent to the Lagoon). Wildlife biologist and qualified teacher Jodie Creek has been conducting wildlife exposure experiences in Cairns daycares, kindergartens and schools for…
Our four year old has asthma. His illness, as well as the disruption it causes to our daily lives, influences decisions we make about travel. For example, we will only travel to places that have access to both an emergency department and hospital ward capable of looking after him if he becomes unwell as he…
Jack Barnes Bicentennial Mangrove Boardwalk, Cairns[/caption] I admit it. My children get far too much screen time. The reason? My eldest son is particularly high drive, requiring stimulation round the clock as well as demonstrating a persistent resistance to independent play. If it were not for the TV I would not be left in…
Gone are the days when I could throw a few items in a bag and make do at my destination. Modern parenting involves furnishings, toys and devices which help both to keep our children safe and our days running smoother. We can’t of course take everything we use at home. Good packing is therefore one…
Here is a summary of what some of the most popular airlines offer traveling families. Qantas Children’s fares – On international flights Lap children pay 10% of the adult fare. Qantas occasionally offers special children’s airfares. Check with Qantas whether these are available prior to booking your planned flight. Children’s luggage allowance – Children travelling…
The following list details the services offered by a range of family oriented airlines. While the services offered vary by class this summary details the services economy class passengers receive. These details were true at the time of writing things may change. Always confirm your specific luggage allowances directly with the airline once you have…