PregOmega® Platinum

The Science Behind Prenatal Supplementation

How amazing is it that a human body can create another human being? Absolutely perfect, with its own unique personality, beauty, and magnificence! How fortunate too are we to be living in an era where science has advanced to a point where pregnant moms can take absolute care of themselves and their developing babies through supplementing their diets? We all know that great nutrition is derived from a perfectly healthy diet, but we know too that great healthy food is not always available to everyone. Pregnancy increases the body’s needs for certain vitamins and minerals, but it can be difficult to support these nutritional needs through diet alone. The nutrient intake of pregnant moms needs to support both moms health and that of her baby, through: The diet supplement market is so saturated with products, how do you as a pregnant mother, know what you should and shouldn’t be taking? Understanding the science behind prenatal supplements, can go a long way to helping you make the best choice that will benefit not only you and your health, but the health of your unborn baby too. Prenatal supplements have been developed based on nutrition science, developmental biology, and the scientific study of how and why diseases and health conditions occur in populations (epidemiology). The studies have all focused on the healthy development of baby as well as maintaining the health of mothers during pregnancy. Essential minerals are vital for human health, and during pregnancy. They are even more critical to support maternal health and infant development. If not supplemented, the levels of many essential minerals decrease during pregnancy, including calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, zinc, as well as chromium and iodine. Low levels of minerals are associated with a wide range of maternal and infant health problems worldwide, and appropriate supplementation may help reduce the risk of many maternal and infant health complications. Key Nutrients and their Scientific Roles Chromium Chromium is recommended to help control blood sugar levels.  Low levels of chromium have shown to be associated with diabetes, which may potentially increase the risk of gestational diabetes.   Iodine Low iodine is strongly associated with iodine deficiency disorders, including hypothyroidism in mothers and infants and intellectual disability in infants. Iodine supplementation is strongly recommended for pregnant women to help decrease the rate of hypothyroidism and intellectual impairment for baby, as well as impaired cognitive function of infants. Calcium Calcium is necessary for strong bone and tooth formation.  It is also vital for the well-being of mom, to help the deterioration of her bones.  Calcium is a strong contributor to nerve cell communication and normal muscle function.  For mom, it not only supports bone health, but is also a factor in the maintenance of good health. Magnesium Blood levels of magnesium decrease significantly during pregnancy.  Magnesium is vital for baby’s development, contributing to strong bone and teeth formation.  It also contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system, normal electrolyte balance and tissue formation.  It contributes to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue, normal psychological function and helps to metabolise carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Vitamin D Vitamin D is important for bone growth and immune function. Supplementing with additional vitamin D during pregnancy contributes to the maintenance of normal muscle function.  It also contributes to the normal function of the immune system, helps in the development and maintenance of bones and teeth and contributes to normal cell division.  Vitamin D helps in the absorption and use of calcium and phosphorous and contributes to normal blood calcium levels.  It is a factor in the maintenance of good health. Active Folate Folate is important for the metabolism of several amino acids. It is essential for normal cell growth and replication. Folate supplementation during pregnancy is proven to reduce the risk of neural tube disorders. Active folate is the body’s usable form of folate which is ideal for those who have difficulty in metabolising synthetic folic acid.  It supports red blood cell formation, vital during pregnancy and is readily absorbed by the body. Iron Iron is important and necessary for the production of red blood cells as well as the transportation of oxygen throughout the body.  During pregnancy, more blood is produced to facilitate the growth of baby.  This means that more iron is required to ensure that mom doesn’t feel tired (a sign that iron levels are low).  Iron also contributes to normal cognitive function. Many women start their pregnancy with low iron levels, and iron levels decrease further during pregnancy, especially mid-trimester, because of the production of new red blood cells for the placenta and baby. Zinc Zinc is important for immune function of the body and particularly necessary for mom and baby during pregnancy.  Maintaining healthy zinc levels is vital for a healthy pregnancy. Taking zinc supplements during pregnancy, helps in connective tissue formation. It contributes to the maintenance of normal healthy skin, normal acid-base metabolism, and helps the body to metabolise carbohydrates, fats and proteins.  It contributes to normal cognitive function, normal DNA synthesis and is a factor in the maintenance of good health.  It contributes to normal macronutrient metabolism and metabolism of vitamin A, as well as the maintenance of normal nails, bones and hair. Selenium Selenium has many functions in the body and has been shown to help reduce hypothyroidism.  It has been found that selenium stores in the body are depleted throughout pregnancy, with most depletion occurring at the end of pregnancy.  Selenium contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress and is an oxidant for the maintenance of good health.  It contributes to the maintenance of normal hair, nails and the normal function of the immune system.  Selenium also contributes to normal thyroid function.  Vitamin C Vitamin C is an important water-soluble antioxidant, and is a co-factor for many enzymatic reactions, including the production of collagen, carnitine, and neuropeptides. During pregnancy, vitamin C is important in contributing to cell protection from free radical damage.  It contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function

February 9, 2026
Educ8 SA

How Online Schools Like Educ8 SA Are Changing Education in South Africa

In recent years, the landscape of education in South Africa has experienced a significant transformation. Traditional classrooms, while effective, often come with limitations such as rigid schedules, high costs, and geographical constraints. This is where online schools like Educ8 SA are stepping in to revolutionise the way students learn, providing flexible, affordable, and high-quality education to learners of all ages. Breaking Down Barriers to Education One of the greatest advantages of online schools is their ability to remove the barriers that often hinder students from reaching their full potential. For families living in remote areas, accessing top-quality education can be challenging. Educ8 SA eliminates these geographic barriers, enabling students to attend classes, complete assignments, and engage with educators from the comfort of their homes. Moreover, online learning allows students to progress at their own pace. Whether your child excels in mathematics but struggles with reading, or you are an adult learner balancing work with education, Educ8 SA provides a personalised learning experience designed to suit your unique needs. Who Can Benefit from Online Learning at Educ8 SA? Educ8 SA serves a wide range of learners, making it a truly inclusive platform: Affordable Learning Paths for Every Budget A common concern among parents and adult learners is the cost of education. At Educ8 SA, we believe that high-quality education should not be a luxury. Our pricing structure offers something for everyone: These options ensure learners can pursue their educational goals without financial strain, opening doors to academic success and career opportunities. Flexibility and Personalised Learning Unlike traditional schools, Educ8 SA empowers learners to create schedules that suit their lifestyles. This flexibility is especially beneficial for adult learners juggling work, family, or other commitments. The online platform offers a mix of interactive lessons, live sessions, and self-paced modules, allowing students to take control of their education. For younger learners, this means learning at a pace that matches their abilities and interests. For older students and adults, it provides the freedom to study during evenings or weekends without compromising other responsibilities. Preparing Students for a Global Future Education is no longer confined to local standards. Students today need skills that will prepare them for a competitive, globalised world. Educ8 SA’s programs, such as the American High School Diploma and GED, provide internationally recognised certifications that give students the flexibility to pursue higher education or careers anywhere in the world. Moreover, by embracing digital literacy and technology-driven learning, students develop critical skills such as self-discipline, problem-solving, and time management—skills that are increasingly vital in the modern workforce. Supporting Every Student’s Journey At Educ8 SA, the student’s success is our priority. Our educators are highly trained and experienced in online teaching, ensuring that students receive the guidance and support they need to excel. Whether it’s assistance with assignments, exam preparation, or understanding complex topics, our team is dedicated to helping each learner reach their full potential. Additionally, the platform fosters a sense of community among learners. Despite being online, students can collaborate, share ideas, and participate in interactive discussions, creating a supportive environment that mirrors traditional classroom interactions. Why Choose Educ8 SA? Choosing the right educational platform is crucial for your child’s future or your own academic goals. Educ8 SA stands out because it combines: Education is the foundation for a brighter future. With Educ8 SA, learning becomes accessible, flexible, and tailored to your life—whether you are a young learner taking your first steps, an adult returning to complete your studies, or an international student seeking global opportunities. Start your journey today, and experience the difference online learning can make. Getting Started is Easy Starting your journey with Educ8 SA is simple. You can explore our programs and choose the path that suits your needs. For inquiries, enrolment, or personalised advice, reach out to us today:

February 9, 2026
School of Rock Parktown North

Building Confidence, Creativity, and Community Through Music

At School of Rock, learning music isn’t about sitting still and memorising notes. It’s about movement, laughter, teamwork, and the thrill of making real music together. Our youth programs are carefully designed to meet kids where they are developmentally, while helping them grow in confidence, creativity, and independence. Little Wing (Ages 3–5) Little Wing is where the magic starts. This playful, high-energy program introduces our youngest musicians to music through games, movement, singing, and exploration. Kids clap, dance, play percussion, and learn the basics of rhythm and melody without even realising they’re learning. Along the way, they build coordination, listening skills, and social confidence, all while having a whole lot of fun. Rookies (Ages 6–7) Rookies is perfect for curious kids who are ready to try instruments but aren’t quite ready for a full band yet. Students get hands-on experience with guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, and vocals, discovering what they love while learning essential musical skills. This program boosts confidence, focus, and independence, and sets students up for success as they move into band programs. Rock 101 (Ages 8–12) Rock 101 is where kids become bandmates. Students combine private lessons with group rehearsals, learning real rock songs and working together as a team. They develop musical skills, stage presence, and collaboration while preparing for live performances that give them a huge confidence boost. There’s nothing quite like seeing a child light up on stage after nailing their first show. Why Parents Love School of Rock  Beyond the music, our programs help kids develop life skills that last. They learn teamwork, discipline, communication, and resilience. Performing builds self-esteem, creativity fuels confidence, and being part of a band creates friendships and a strong sense of belonging. At School of Rock, kids don’t just learn music. They find their voice, their confidence, and their inner rockstar  Whether you or your child is picking up an instrument for the first time or expanding existing skills, our performance programmes provide inspiration, fun, and confidence through music. Please pop us an email at [email protected] or Whatsapp us on 074 322 2000 for more info and to book a FREE trial.  

February 6, 2026
DIBBER SA

Language Diversity at Home: How Everyday Moments Shape Confident Communicators

Language is more than words. It’s how children express feelings, understand the world, and connect with others. Dibber International Preschools says a home that embraces language diversity powerfully supports a child’s development. “Children are naturally curious about words, sounds and meaning,” says Ursula Assis, Country Director for Dibber International Preschools South Africa. “When families nurture language diversity at home—through storytelling, songs, or simple conversation—children grow up more confident, empathetic, and open to the world around them.” Homes are often a child’s first classroom, and supporting language diversity doesn’t require formal lessons or fluency. Rather, it happens through small, meaningful moments interlaced into daily life. From chatting in multiple languages during routines to reading bilingual books or singing nursery rhymes from different cultures, these everyday practices help children develop flexibility in thinking, stronger memory, and an expanded emotional vocabulary. According to Dibber, the goal is not perfection but exposure – and joyful engagement. “Using your home languages freely and naturally helps children make important brain connections,” Assis explains. “And it also tells them: who you are, where you come from, and how you express yourself matters deeply.” Play-based approaches work especially well. Labelling household items in different languages, using pretend play to introduce new vocabulary, and turning learning into games or songs keep the process fun and pressure-free. Dibber’s Nordic-rooted philosophy encourages families to celebrate their cultural roots and make language a shared, emotional experience – whether it’s counting in isiXhosa, singing in Afrikaans, or reading bedtime stories in English. Dibber also highlights the importance of patience. “Children develop at their own pace. Some might mix languages or pause before responding, and that’s absolutely normal,” Assis reassures. “The key is to stay supportive and engaged without rushing them.” Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in shaping how children experience language. By modelling curiosity and respect – greeting neighbours in their home language, learning a few new words together, or showing interest in other cultures – families can help children develop a lifelong love of language. “Nurturing language diversity is about far more than communication,” says Assis. “It’s about raising confident children who can connect with others, understand different perspectives, and thrive in a multicultural world.” With more than 600 high-quality preschools across nine countries, Dibber is a global leader in early childhood education. In South Africa, its campuses in Gauteng and the Western Cape offer holistic, heart-led learning environments that reflect and celebrate diversity, including language and culture. For parents wondering where to start, Dibber’s advice is simple: talk, read, sing, and play. Children may not remember every word, but they will remember how language made them feel: curious, connected, and seen.

February 6, 2026
Cartoonito

Looney Tunes Presents: Sports Made Simple – Bugs Makes Winter Sports Fun!

Get your kids laughing and learning with Bugs Bunny in Looney Tunes Presents: Sports Made Simple! This playful series of 6×90 second shorts breaks down winter sports—from snowboarding and figure skating to ski jumping and ice hockey—making it simple, fun, and totally entertaining. Perfect for parents to watch alongside their little ones, Bugs Bunny brings big laughs while sparking curiosity and encouraging kids to try new things. With short, action-packed episodes, it’s a fun way to introduce your children to winter sports, all from the comfort of your living room! 📺 Premiere Friday 6 February 2026⏰ Tune-In 6 February to 13 February @ 16:00 on DSTV Channel 302Ends: 22 February 2026Don’t miss out – Big Laughs and Fun Adventures make Kids Happy!

February 6, 2026
Teneo Online School

Future-proofing your child in 2026: the skills South African schools can’t afford to ignore

The world your child will graduate into is changing faster than any generation before them. Artificial intelligence is reshaping how we work, information is everywhere (and not always reliable), and employers are increasingly hiring for skills that can’t be automated, like critical thinking, adaptability and communication. The question for parents isn’t just “Which school has the best reputation?” It’s: Will my child be ready for what comes next? South Africa is already moving in this direction. The Department of Basic Education has signalled digital transformation as a national priority through its Digital Education Strategy roadmap, recognising that technology-enabled learning is no longer optional in the long run. At the same time, global research continues to point to the same capability set. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs research consistently ranks analytical thinking and resilience, flexibility and agility among the most essential skills employers want. So what does “future-proof education” actually look like for a South African family in 2026? 1) Digital fluency without losing foundational mastery Future-ready children need to be confident with digital tools, but not at the expense of reading, writing and numeracy. The smartest learning environments strengthen foundational skills while building modern fluency: researching responsibly, writing clearly, presenting ideas, and using technology to solve problems. 2) Faster feedback so gaps don’t become permanent In many traditional settings, a child can fall behind quietly for weeks before it shows up in a test result. Future-proof learning is feedback-rich: regular check-ins, visible progress tracking, and earlier intervention when engagement drops, or concepts aren’t sticking. That’s how confidence is protected, and how marks improve over time. 3) Adaptability as a daily habit The future belongs to learners who can adjust quickly: switch approaches, try again, collaborate, and stay calm under pressure. Schools that build routines around goal-setting, reflection and consistent effort help children develop the self-management skills they’ll need at university and in the workplace. 4) Credibility and quality assurance still matter Modern delivery doesn’t mean lower standards. In South Africa, NSC outcomes remain quality assured under Umalusi processes, and distance education has rapidly expanded, with SACAI noting the overwhelming majority of its candidates are now registered via distance education providers or online schools. The real differentiator is quality: qualified educators, strong systems, and reliable academic support. A practical parent checklist When evaluating any school, traditional or online, ask: Taryn Jankes, CMO of Teneo Online School, said: “Future-proofing isn’t about chasing the latest trend in education; it’s about making sure your child can think clearly, learn independently, and recover quickly when something is hard. In South Africa, parents also need schooling that’s credible and structured, but flexible enough to meet children where they are. If we can build strong habits, strong foundations, and real confidence, the results follow, and the child is ready for whatever the world throws at them.” At Teneo Online School, we believe future-proofing is about outcomes and capability: helping children build the skills to thrive in a world that won’t stand still, while still delivering credible academic results.

February 5, 2026
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