leading expert advice from Dibber International Preschools
DIBBER SA

NAVIGATING THE CHALLENGES OF OVERSCHEDULING CHILDREN – FINDING THE RIGHT BALANCE IN SOUTH AFRICA

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy for South African parents to fall into the trap of overscheduling their children. Our little ones can quickly find their days packed from morning till night between school, sports, cultural activities, and playdates. For children aged 6 and under, finding the right balance is crucial for their development and well-being. In South Africa, where cultural diversity and vibrant community life offer a plethora of activities, it can be tempting to enrol children in everything from soccer to dance and from isiZulu classes to music lessons. However, overscheduling can lead to stress and fatigue, even in the youngest children. Imagine the life of a child who spends most of their day moving from one activity to another without a moment to breathe. The joy of exploring their surroundings, playing freely, and simply being a child gets overshadowed by the constant rush of scheduled activities.  As parents, we want the best for our children, aiming to provide them with opportunities to learn and grow. However, it’s important to remember that unstructured playtime is equally valuable. Free play allows children to use their imagination, develop social skills, and learn at their own pace. It’s during these moments of unstructured time that they often discover their interests and talents. Children thrive when they have a mix of structured activities and free play. Think of it as creating a balance between learning and relaxation. Structured activities, like soccer practice or a dance class, help develop specific skills and introduce children to teamwork and discipline. On the other hand, free play fosters creativity, problem-solving abilities, and independence. To find this balance, start by observing your child. Notice how they react to different activities and their overall mood. Are they excited and eager to participate, or do they seem tired and overwhelmed? Listening to your child’s cues can guide you in adjusting. In South Africa, creating a weekly schedule that includes downtime is beneficial. This doesn’t mean eliminating all activities but rather spacing them out and ensuring there are periods for rest and relaxation. Having a predictable routine helps children feel secure, but it should be flexible enough to accommodate their need for free time. Communication is key. Talk to your child about their day and how they feel about the activities they are involved in. Their feedback is valuable and can provide insights into what they truly enjoy. Sometimes, children might not verbally express their feelings but might show signs of distress through behaviour changes, such as irritability or a lack of enthusiasm. Family time is another important aspect of achieving balance. Simple activities like reading a book together, going for a walk, or cooking a meal can be incredibly enriching. These moments not only strengthen family bonds but also give children a sense of stability and comfort. In South Africa, where community and family are deeply valued, it’s essential to manage our expectations and resist the pressure to fill every moment with structured activities. Trust that giving children the freedom to explore and play on their own terms is just as important for their growth. By finding a balance between scheduled activities and free play, we create an environment where our children can flourish. They will learn to enjoy both the structured opportunities to learn new skills and the invaluable time to simply be kids. In the rich and diverse cultural tapestry of South Africa, striking this balance will help our children grow up healthy, happy, and well-rounded. Article by: Kelly Grace Eyre

August 5, 2024
DIBBER SA

Language and Literacy: The Benefits of Reading in Young Children and it’s Vital Importance in South Africa

As parents in South Africa, we all want the best for our children. We dream of bright futures filled with opportunities. One of the most effective ways to set our children on the path to success is by fostering early language and literacy skills. Reading plays a crucial role in this journey, offering numerous benefits that extend far beyond the pages of a book. In this blog, we’ll explore how reading benefits young children and why it is especially important for us here in South Africa. The Importance of Early Language and Literacy Development Language and literacy are the building blocks of education. They involve the ability to understand, use, and enjoy language in all its forms—speaking, listening, reading, and writing. When we start fostering these skills early in our children’s lives, we lay a strong foundation for their future learning and development. As South African parents, we have the unique opportunity to enrich our children’s lives through storytelling, conversations, and reading. In our culturally diverse nation, this can also mean sharing stories in multiple languages and celebrating our rich heritage while boosting our children’s cognitive abilities. Benefits of Reading for Young Children Cognitive Benefits Vocabulary Expansion: Reading to our children introduces them to a variety of words and phrases they might not hear in everyday conversations. This helps expand their vocabulary and enhances their ability to express themselves. Improved Comprehension Skills: Regular reading helps children understand and process information better. This skill is crucial for their academic success and overall cognitive development. Social Benefits Better Communication Skills: Children who are read to frequently develop superior communication skills. They learn how to articulate their thoughts and listen actively, which are essential skills for social interactions and future learning. Enhanced Empathy: Stories allow children to see the world from different perspectives. This exposure helps them develop empathy and understanding towards others, fostering a sense of community and respect. Emotional Benefits Bonding with Caregivers: Reading together is a special time for bonding. It provides a sense of security and belonging, strengthening the emotional connection between parents and children. Stress Reduction: The soothing nature of reading can help children relax and manage their emotions better, reducing stress and anxiety. Challenges and Opportunities in South Africa South Africa faces several challenges in promoting early literacy, but there are also many opportunities to make a positive impact. Overview of Literacy Rates: Despite progress, literacy rates in South Africa remain a concern, particularly in rural and under-resourced areas. Many children do not have access to books or quality early childhood education. Socio-Economic Disparities: Economic challenges can limit access to books and learning materials, making it harder for some families to prioritize reading. Opportunities for Improvement Government Initiatives: Various government policies and programs aim to improve education and literacy. Supporting these initiatives can help create a more literate society. Community Programs: Grassroots initiatives and non-profit organizations often provide books, training, and support to families and educators. Getting involved in these programs can make a significant difference. Role of Technology: With the rise of digital platforms and mobile apps, more children can access reading materials and literacy programs. Leveraging technology can help bridge the gap for many children. 1,000 Books Before Age 6: A Vital Goal There is a growing movement encouraging parents to read 1,000 books to their children before they turn six. This might sound daunting, but breaking it down means just one book a day over three years. Here’s why this goal is so important: Building a Strong Foundation: Reading a vast number of books exposes children to a wide range of vocabulary, ideas, and concepts, strengthening their cognitive abilities. Developing a Love for Reading: Consistent reading fosters a love for books and learning, setting the stage for lifelong educational success. Improving Concentration and Patience: Regular reading sessions help improve a child’s attention span and patience, skills that are crucial for school readiness. Enhancing Imagination and Creativity: Diverse stories stimulate a child’s imagination and creativity, helping them think outside the box. Strengthening Parent-Child Bond: The daily ritual of reading together strengthens the emotional bond between parents and children, creating lasting memories. In South Africa, reaching this goal can have profound impacts, especially in under-resourced communities where early literacy can be a game-changer for future educational success. The Importance of Reading to Children as Parents As parents, we are our children’s first and most influential teachers. Reading to our children is one of the most impactful ways we can support their development. Here’s why it matters so much: Creating a Nurturing Environment: Reading aloud to your child provides a comforting and secure environment. It’s a special time for bonding and shows your child that they are loved and valued. Setting a Positive Example: When children see their parents engaging with books, they are more likely to develop a positive attitude toward reading themselves. Encouraging Curiosity and Imagination: Books open up new worlds and ideas, stimulating your child’s imagination and curiosity. This encourages creative thinking and a love for learning. Preparing for Academic Success: Early reading habits prepare children for the academic demands of school, giving them a head start in literacy and comprehension skills. Fostering Independence: As children grow, their ability to read independently enhances their self-confidence and sense of achievement. Strategies to Promote Reading in Young Children Tips for Parents and Caregivers Make Reading a Daily Habit: Incorporate reading into your daily routine. Even a few minutes a day can make a big difference. Choose Age-Appropriate and Diverse Books: Select books that are suitable for your child’s age and interests. Include stories from different cultures and languages to broaden their horizons. Engage in Discussions About the Stories: Talk about the stories you read together. Ask questions, encourage your child to share their thoughts, and relate the stories to their own experiences. Role of Schools and Educators Incorporate Regular Reading Sessions: Ensure that reading is a regular part of the school day. This can foster a love for books and learning. Provide a Variety of

July 18, 2024
DIBBER SA

Forgiveness: A Gentle Guide for Young Hearts

Forgiveness is an important value that helps our children grow into kind and understanding individuals. In South Africa, where we have a beautiful mix of cultures and traditions, teaching forgiveness from a young age can help create a community where everyone feels loved and accepted. What is Forgiveness? Forgiveness means letting go of hurt feelings when someone does something that makes us sad or upset. It’s like saying, “It’s okay, I won’t stay mad at you.” Forgiveness doesn’t mean we forget what happened or that it didn’t matter; it means we choose to move forward with a happy heart. Why is Forgiveness Important? For young children, forgiveness helps build strong friendships and maintain a positive outlook on life. It teaches them to be empathetic and to understand that everyone makes mistakes. Practising forgiveness in our diverse South African communities can foster unity and harmony. Teaching Forgiveness You can show your children how to forgive by practising it yourself. If you make a mistake, apologise and explain that everyone can be forgiven. Reading stories that highlight forgiveness can also be very impactful. Tales from our rich South African heritage, like those of Nelson Mandela’s forgiveness, can help children understand the power of forgiving. During playtime, encourage your child to share and resolve conflicts amicably. If a disagreement happens, guide them through the process of forgiving. Praise them when they forgive someone, saying things like, “I’m so proud of you for forgiving your friend. That was very kind.” Encouraging Forgiveness A simple activity to encourage forgiveness is creating a Forgiveness Jar. Have a special jar where your child can place a note whenever they forgive someone. At the end of the week, read the notes together and celebrate their kind heart. Role-playing can also be very effective. Use dolls or stuffed animals to act out situations where forgiveness is needed. This makes the concept more relatable and understandable for young minds. Art and crafts can be another way to help your child express their feelings. Encourage them to draw or paint their emotions. Discuss their artwork and gently guide them towards understanding and expressing forgiveness. Cultural Connections In South Africa, we have a concept called ‘Ubuntu’, which means “I am because we are.” This philosophy emphasises our interconnectedness and the importance of community. Teaching forgiveness aligns perfectly with Ubuntu, helping children understand that forgiving others strengthens our bonds and builds a better society. Teaching forgiveness to our little ones is like planting a seed that will grow into a strong, compassionate tree. As parents, we have the wonderful opportunity to nurture this value in our children, helping them to become loving and understanding individuals. Let’s embrace the spirit of Ubuntu and make forgiveness a fundamental part of our children’s lives. By nurturing forgiveness in our children, we are creating a child with a heart for the world. Thank you for being such wonderful guides for your young ones. Together, we can create a world full of kindness and understanding, one small heart at a time. Article by: Kelly Grace Eyre

July 11, 2024
DIBBER SA

A Safe Space is Essential to a Child’s Wellbeing and Growth

As a parent what should your pre-school do to safeguard your children? The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child is a comprehensive guide to creating an environment that allows children to thrive. This guide embodies a child’s right to a safe environment and an education that helps them develop who they are, their talents, and their abilities. It’s crucial to acknowledge these rights for every child and provide them with a space where they can thrive. The Importance of a Safe Space Ursula Assis, Country Director, Dibber International Pre-schools, explains. “Children need an environment that promotes healthy practices and focuses on their physical, mental and social wellbeing as this allows them to maximise their learning abilities,” says Assis. A fact reinforced by research from the Thomas B. Fordham Institute that said ‘feeling safe and valued is vital to a child’s development’. The Institute also pointed out that such an environment doesn’t happen by chance – it is the product of strategy, evolving through clearly defined rules and expectations embedded within the school. “We believe it is important to take a proactive and preventative approach to safeguarding children. Health and safety risk assessments are undertaken regularly, and we remain current with any legislative requirements required in South Africa,” adds Assis. What are the key safeguarding strategies in place at Dibber? Staff are trained in health and safety regulations and expectations regarding children’s health and safety as well as environmental and school health and safety. Parents can request insight into the policies defining acceptable and unacceptable standards of health and safety as this gives them visibility into Dibber’s principles and commitment to the health and wellbeing of their children. These policies are included in the parent contracts, unit manager operations handbooks, staff handbooks and staff training materials. Staff undertake continuous assessment and training to ensure the best possible care for children in an environment that is nurturing, safe, and healthy. What legislation is recognised by the school as integral to the health, safety and wellbeing of children? The Children’s Act 38 of 2005 and the Children’s Amendment Act 2007 that regulate the establishment of Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres. The National Environmental Norms and Standards for Premises, Notice 1229 of 2015, National Health Act 61 of 2003. The Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993. Foodstuffs, Cosmetics & Disinfectants Act 54 of 1972. Regulations No.638 of 22 June 2018 governing General Hygiene Requirements for Food Premises, the Transport of Food and Related Matters. “These are just a few of the Acts and regulatory policies we follow at Dibber. In addition to the above, we follow whitepapers on childhood development, nutrition regulations, and educational policies. Our list is comprehensive and detailed, and consistently updated to ensure we are always aligned with state, provincial and local authority legislation. “We have also developed forms, documents and protocols designed to prioritise a child’s health, safety and wellbeing throughout the school. We have applications and forms for compliance, medication, parental reporting, childcare protocols and a detailed safeguarding policy.” Dibber invests in monthly risk assessments to ensure staff identify and monitor potential hazards, monthly inspections of indoor and outdoor spaces and equipment, and has paid time and attention to cultivating a culture of proactive safeguarding and hazard management. “We have also refined our admissions policy to ensure safeguarding children starts from the very beginning of our relationship with parents and their children. We consider the individual situation of every child and assess any disability and/or neurodivergent developmental condition, so we ensure they can benefit from our resources and staff in a space that prioritises their wellbeing. “All our schools also have stringent access control and security measures in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone within our facilities. Every step is carefully managed and monitored from arrival to departure to visitors. We believe that by prioritising safety at every touchpoint throughout the school, we give parents peace of mind and children peace within which to thrive. Our focus is on cultivating and maintaining a safe and nurturing environment where children can thrive and discover their full potential,” concludes Assis.

July 4, 2024
DIBBER SA

The power of  play  is real 

With the focus on Youth in June, Dibber International Preschools  emphasises the importance of pretend  play in childhood development. Ursula Assis, Country Director, urges parents and educators not to overlook  the  power  of  play  amidst  the pursuit of academic achievements. “While the focus on achieving specific learning outcomes is important, it’s equally crucial to recognise the role of imaginative play in a child’s holistic development,” says Assis. The Significance of  Pretend Play Pretend  play, or imaginative  play, is a vital  part of childhood that goes beyond mere entertainment. It is integral to the developmental process, helping children explore and understand the world around them. “Engaging in pretend play allows children to use their creativity while developing critical cognitive, social, and emotional skills,” Assis explains.  Stages of Pretend Play and Developmental Milestones Pretend  play  evolves as children grow, with each stage corresponding to specific developmental milestones: Symbolic  Play (18 to 24 months): Toddlers begin to understand object substitution, such as using a block as a phone. Dramatic  Play (2.5 to 3 years): Children start to enact familiar experiences, often using dolls or stuffed animals to represent people they know. Role-Playing (3 years and up): Children adopt various roles from their everyday lives, enhancing their ability to navigate social situations. Imaginary Objects (3 to 4 years): Preschoolers engage with elements that are not physically present, like pretending to drink from an empty cup. Pretend Play with Others (3 to 4 years): This stage involves interaction with peers, where children begin to cooperate and negotiate roles in a shared play scenario. Fantasy Play (4 years and up): Children delve into more complex, imaginative scenarios, often involving magical or fantastical elements. Imaginary Friends (4 to 5 years): The creation of imaginary companions helps children explore different aspects of their personality and the world. The Benefits of Pretend Play Pretend  play is more than just fun. It provides essential benefits that contribute to a child’s development: Creative and Critical Thinking: Children learn to think creatively and solve problems while navigating their invented scenarios. Communication and Social Skills: Engaging in role-play  enhances verbal and  non-verbal  communication, teaching children to express themselves clearly and understand others. Emotional Intelligence: By acting out different roles, children  develop empathy and the ability to manage their own emotions. Self-Regulation and Conflict Resolution: Pretend  play  often requires children to follow rules they set for themselves, helping them develop self-discipline and negotiation skills. Celebrating Youth Month with a Focus on Well-being This June, Dibber International Preschools celebrates the intrinsic value of play in education. “It’s essential that we provide our children with ample opportunities to engage in pretend  play. This  not only  supports their immediate happiness and satisfaction  but also  contributes to their long-term well-being and success,” concludes Assis.  

June 24, 2024
DIBBER SA

Embracing Every Step: Navigating Special Needs

“My journey with Dibber International has deeply intertwined with the lives of countless families, each with their unique, cherished children. As someone on the autism spectrum and a parent to a special needs son, I deeply grasp the intricacies and joys of nurturing children with diverse needs. From autism to developmental delays and learning difficulties, every journey is as unique as the precious children it encompasses. “I know firsthand how daunting it can be to embark on this journey. Even with my qualifications and experience, I initially struggled to acknowledge and navigate my son’s challenges. It was a journey filled with denial, fear, and uncertainty. But with the help of dedicated teachers, supportive managers, compassionate doctors, and skilled therapists, we began to navigate this uncharted territory. Each step was arduous, but with their guidance and expertise, we gradually found our footing. Today, we stand stronger, armed with knowledge, resilience, and an unwavering determination to overcome any obstacle that comes our way. “Looking back, I often wished I had the support of Dibber International when our journey began. The personalised guidance, holistic approach, and unwavering support that Dibber provides would have been invaluable during those challenging early days. That’s why I am deeply committed to this cause—not only as an educator but also as someone I wish I had when we first set foot on this path. I’ve learned firsthand that I am not alone, and neither are you. “The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, disrupting the lives of families and exacerbating existing barriers to education and support services. For young children, especially those with special needs, the absence of in-person preschool experiences deprived them of vital opportunities for social interaction, sensory exploration, and structured learning. The abrupt shift to remote learning posed significant challenges for children who thrive “on routine, consistency, and hands-on experiences. Isolation from friends, teachers, and routine has been particularly challenging for young children’s social and emotional development. Many missed out on crucial interactions and experiences that lay the foundation for empathy, cooperation, and emotional regulation. Furthermore, the sudden change in routine and increased screen time may have impacted their sleep patterns, attention spans, and overall well-being. “As we navigated these turbulent waters, Dibber International’s commitment to families remained steadfast. We adapted our strategies, providing virtual support, resources, and guidance to bridge the gap created by remote learning. However, we acknowledged the limitations of virtual platforms in meeting the holistic needs of young children with special needs. In-person preschool experiences and supportive learning environments became more crucial than ever. “Development in young children under six unfolds across multiple domains—physical, cognitive, social, and emotional. Every milestone, from learning to walk to understanding emotions, contributes to their growth. For children with special needs, this journey may require tailored interventions and support. Early intervention services play a pivotal role in identifying and addressing developmental delays, equipping children with the tools they need to thrive. “At Dibber International, our approach to child development is grounded in the belief that every child possesses unique strengths and abilities. We call it the Dibber Way—a mastery that celebrates individuality and fosters growth. Our team collaborates closely with families to create personalized education plans prioritising each child’s well-being, growth, and happiness. Through play-based learning, sensory exploration, and tailored support, we empower children to reach their full potential, one step at a time. “Together, as a community of parents, educators, and supporters, we stand united in our commitment to nurturing and empowering every child. Though the road ahead may be challenging, it is also filled with endless possibilities and moments of profound joy. With each step we take together, we weave a tapestry of hope, resilience, and boundless love. Let us continue to embrace every step of this journey with open hearts and unwavering determination, knowing that our children’s futures are bright with promise “If you suspect your child may be experiencing challenges or difficulties, trust your instincts and reach out for support. As parents, you know your child best, and early intervention can make a significant difference in addressing developmental concerns. Our teamis here to listen, provide guidance, and support you through every step of the process. From assessment and diagnosis to creating personalized intervention plans, we’ll work together to ensure your child receives the support they need to thrive. Remember, you are not alone on this journey, and together, we can empower your child to reach their full potential. “What if all children could know how valuable they are? Together, we create a world where every child is cherished, included, and empowered to thrive, creating a child for the heart of the world.” By: Kelly Grace Eyre

June 17, 2024
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Parenting Hub

Play Sense launches winter holiday program for pre-schoolers

South Africa has a long winter school holiday over July, when the harshest, cold weather is usually at its peak.  With SA’s third wave of the pandemic on the rise and more lockdown restrictions, families are mostly planning to batten down the hatches at home.  That’s going to be a particular challenge for parents of pre-schoolers who have to adapt to a homebound, indoor existence.  Having your little one home for the entire holidays can be daunting when the opportunities to ramble and play outside are so limited, and many parents are wondering how they are going to cope.   Award-winning early childhood education specialists, Play Sense are coming to the rescue this winter with a free four-week holiday platform, Play Box, which will guide South African parents and their pre-schoolers through an enriching, connected time.  The winter holiday program, aimed at two- to four-year-olds is easily accessible on-line, so parents around the country can sign up and tap into an array of professionally developed resources that will give them structure for their day and loads of fun content. “The winter holiday program artfully blends on and off-line so parents can choose what works best for them,” says Play Sense CEO and Co-founder, Meg Faure.  “Each holiday week has a lovely learning theme, and every day there are two fresh activities that ignite imaginations and enable sensory play, which is so important for this age group.  We have also included optional zoom sessions with our best-loved online teachers who are experts at engaging interactively with little ones on-screen.” The beauty of Play Box is that parents are empowered to proactively share in their child’s development, and it gives them unique opportunities to experience their child learning through play like they do in their pre-school environments. Lara Schoenfeld, Play Sense’s Co-founder and Director of Education says, “It’s a simple, straightforward way for parents to access early childhood education content this holiday.  It’s a simple free registration to Play Box with no need to access any additional platforms or go through a range of logins.  It’s so interesting for parents to get these first-hand insights into how their child responds to different learning materials and activities, and the whole experience fosters deep parent-child bonds.” Play Sense is a SA trailblazer of a unique home environment micro-playschool model based on the development of super-skills, such as creativity, self-regulation and executive function, through imaginary play.  Play Sense learning programs are developed by occupational therapists and qualified pre-school educators to meet the specific needs of toddlers, who are arguably, in the most exciting development stage of human life.  Play Sense offers both off and on-line playschool programs and are adept at getting the best out of both high-touch and high-tech. “What many parents will appreciate in the Play Box holiday program is that it gives them a structure,” says Faure. “Week by week they will journey through the fun worlds of the Jungle, MyTown, Dinosaurs and Bugs.  This is the answer to parents wondering what they are going to do to keep their little ones occupied.  As parents ourselves, we know how to make it easy for others to access well-developed activities and to be smoothly guided through a learning by play experience.  The real spin-off benefit is that your child is going to delight at connecting with you this way, and day by day, your heart will fill up as you see how you are making a wonderful difference for your child.” Here are some activities you and your little one can expect from Play Box this school holiday:  Imaginary play ignites your child’s language, social and emotional skills development  The Jungle-theme week includes going on a safari. Using language and props that are easily found around the house your toddler will be engaged in an imagined scenario. Imaginary play is one of the most powerful ways toddlers learn, and by facilitating this activity, parents will improve their skills to facilitate other fun games to play with your child around the house. Sensory play develops your child’s motor skills, cognitive reasoning, language, creativity, and imagination The Bug-theme week includes creating the amazing butterfly lifecycle using play dough, one of Play Sense’s favourite toys. This extra sensory activity will spark other ideas of the magical worlds and scenarios you can create together at home using simple and inexpensive materials. Creative play encourages your child’s cognitive and language development, as well as motor skills The My Town-theme week will explore different human roles and includes engrossing art activities. Your toddler’s creative activities from working with paint to create pictures to building Lego walls is more about the creative process than the end product. Movement play develops your child’s language and gross motor skills while having so much fun The Dinosaurs-theme week includes lots of enriching music and movement play. Movement play activities are not only designed to develop your little one’s body sense but is perfect for setting off fits of giggles and having silly fun together.  The Play Sense Winter holiday Play Box is available from 28 June to 28 July 2021.  The program is accessible for free, and you can register here.

July 1, 2021
Advtech Group

The importance of developing organisational skills from a young age

Developing organisational skills is important in holistic child development, and a key step in their path towards independence and academic success. Children are capable and competent and will respond to the opportunity to be organised, an education expert says. “Organisational skills help children create order in their environment and the world, and they feel empowered to take on increasingly more complex tasks as they build on this foundational skill,” says Desiree Hugo, Head of Academics at ADvTECH Schools, a division of Africa’s leading private education provider. She says parents can progressively start introducing organisational skills into the everyday lives of their children by making it a fun and empowering experience. Essential to this introduction is ensuring your child has good role modelling, and this is easily done by parent and child preparing for the school day before bed time. Ensure school uniforms are prepared, school bags are packed, lunch boxes are ready to be filled and plans for collection from school are discussed. Involve your child in these preparations and give them the responsibility of participating in the organisation of their day and space. Leave early in the morning to avoid traffic congestion, and prevent your child becoming anxious by late arrival. The impact of arriving late will be affect the child’s settling in and learning throughout the day. “Teaching, modelling and allowing the child autonomy to practice these essential skills have a significant and long-lasting impact on a child’s ability to succeed throughout their academic career; since these are essential life skills and they are the foundation to building a child’s ability to feel prepared, and ready to learn and engage in the classroom. Hugo says that all children are unique, and while some may have an innate drive to organise their environment, others may be quite content to let chaos compound around them. These differences in personality may very likely translate to schoolwork and responsibilities at home as well, she says, so organisational skills should be encouraged and introduced in an age-and personality appropriate way from a young age. “Your average preschooler isn’t going to be keeping a diary or to-do list, for instance, but they can understand, develop and share routines at home and in the classroom,” Hugo says. “Teachers can help students stay on track by following a general schedule each day. Maintaining structure in the classroom supports students to establish a schedule and remember what is expected of them.  Structure in this second year of Covid is important, given that most children in South Africa still have a disrupted educational experience, so where possible, structure helps alleviate some of the impact of this disruption by providing a measure of certainty and predictability.” She says at home, chores such as cleaning up toys, putting away clothes and helping set or clear the table – or whichever recurring chores arise within the home environment – are good ways to teach children the methodical approach to following directions and focusing on a task. “Establishing an after-school routine for having lunch, planning their work timelines, and completing homework promptly is also helpful, not just academically, but it provides a sense of structure and achievement.” Hugo says that parents can help their child on their organisational journey by creating a nurturing environment conducive to learning and developing important foundational skills, but always believing in the competencies of their child. “With the right encouragement and approach, children will gradually start to build organisational muscle, and be proud of their contribution within the home and at school.” Playful family time is essential and co-creating games are interactive. An exciting way to introduce new concepts – particularly to an otherwise reluctant child – is to turn it into a game, says Hugo. The LEGO Foundation www.legofoundation.com and UNICEF www.unicef.org share useful elements of playful pedagogy and these online platforms offer playful learning ideas, materials and strategies for schools and families, which can support organisational thinking. “As academic demands start to grow, children may experience challenges setting priorities, making plans, sticking to a task and getting things done. These skills become increasingly important as your child moves through different grade levels. Many people think of organisational skills as the ability to keep things in order, but it is much more than that – it sets a child up for success and enjoyment of their learning journey.”

June 18, 2021
Hannah Brauninger Occupational Therapy

Let’s Talk Left-Handedness

Just because you’re left-handed doesn’t mean you have to be left behind! As a qualified Occupational Therapist and lefty myself, I can help you and your child be the best lefty they can be! That’s why I designed the Lefty Kit!  It’s a total myth that being left-handed means that you will automatically struggle with writing and cutting tasks and that it’s a given that a lefty’s writing will look and be awkward. There is really little to no difference in skills whether you’re left-handed or right-handed. It’s just that lefties are the minority and live in a right-handed world and therefore need to learn to adapt to it. They also need to be taught the correct left-handed principles as early as possible.  Think about it this way – if you are right-handed, but someone taught you the writing and cutting principles of a lefty, how awkward and difficult would these tasks be for you?! Try to cut with a pair of left-handed scissors if you are right-handed – it will feel uncomfortable and your cutting accuracy will not be as good. It’s the same concept with lefties. If taught writing and cutting principles correctly from the get-go, a left-handed child will look no different to a right-handed child when working in class (other than the fact that they are using their left hand!).  The Lefty Kit is designed to assist left-handed children to develop functional cutting and writing skills. As a left-handed occupational therapist, I created The Lefty Kit to assist parents, teachers and therapists navigate little lefties through this right-handed world.  The Lefty Kit breaks down common issues that left-handed children encounter, and  removes all the anxiety and stress often associated with it. ‘The Guide to Left Handedness’ includes misconceptions about left-handedness and then breaks down writing and cutting principles in a way that is simple, easy to understand and fun for children! It shows how the pencil should be held and how the hand, arm and page should be positioned, meaning that you can easily guide your child to write in the best way. Each kit includes: The Guide to Left Handedness 13 Activities Writing Mat FREE Delivery Nationwide Included in the Lefty Kit are 13 activities that can be done to develop, practice and apply the important aspects of left-handedness in a fun way! One of the activities included in the Lefty Kit is Pompom Flicks. This game requires pompoms (included in the kit) as well as goals (e.g. tape, tins, toilet rolls, etc.). Your child needs to flick the pompoms and try to score a goal by using their thumb and index finger or thumb and middle finger. This flicking movement places the wrist in an extended position. Wrist extension is therefore strengthened during this activity and will assist your little lefty in positioning their hand correctly when writing and will prevent them from developing a hook grasp! Order your Lefty Kit here for only R485! Occupational therapists can assist left-handed children by guiding them, teaching them the principles of left-handedness and helping them practice the application of these principles. They can also assist parents by educating them so that parents can assist their child at home, but can also advocate for them in this right-handed world.  What is Occupational Therapy? Occupational Therapy (OT) is a client-centered health profession concerned with promoting health and well being through occupation. The primary goal of OT is to enable people to participate in the activities of everyday life. Occupational therapists achieve this outcome by working with people and communities to enhance their ability to engage in the occupations they want to, need to, or are expected to do. This outcome may also be achieved by modifying the occupation or environment to better support their occupational engagement. (https://wfot.org/about/about-occupational-therapy) How OT can help children A child’s life is also made up of occupations and daily activities. These include playing, learning, sleeping and resting, interacting with others, getting dressed, etc. OT’s can help and support children of all ages, from new-borns to teenagers. OT’s work with children and their families to help them succeed in activities of daily living by incorporating the occupations that are most important to them in the intervention process. The goal of OT is to help children become independent in all areas of life, for example, achieving age appropriate developmental milestones, interacting socially, play skills, gross motor and fine motor skills, sensory integration, coping at school, behaviour, etc.  For more Lefty content, follow me on Instagram and Facebook @steadystridesot

May 4, 2021
Parenting Hub

Playschool startup achieves government accreditation on top of international funding

Play Sense becomes one of the first programmes of its kind in SA to be registered by the Department of Social Development as demand booms for innovative online and home-based schools The South African edutech startup Play Sense, which recently raised more than R8-million in international investment from an Africa-focused, gender-lensed venture capital fund, has now also become one of the first registered play-focused preschool franchises in the country. The digitally-enabled micro-playschool programme is a first for South Africa and enables teachers to set up their own playschools at home under the Play Sense banner, with its award-winning imaginative play-centred curriculum for preschoolers as its primary drawcard. It has now become one of the first programmes of its kind to be accredited by the Department of Social Development as a registered early childhood development (ECD) programme in terms of the Children’s Act. The business was founded by early childhood expert and author Meg Faure, who also founded the well-known Baby Sense brand, and fellow occupational therapist and educator Lara Schoenfeld, who also founded the successful Nanny ‘n Me franchise. Faure is CEO and Melissa Cumming, previously the MD of ecommerce business Bloomable, is COO.  “Our evidence-based curriculum follows the Vygotskian theory of development which says that guided imagination-based play is the best way to equip kids with the core capacities they need to thrive in a changing world, including self-regulation, executive function, creativity, collaboration and learning readiness,” said Faure.  “Our accreditation by the department is an important validation of the quality of both our educational programme and the innovative business model that underpins it. We’re excited about expanding the programme across South Africa this year and globally in the near future – and in the process bringing the ECD space into the sharing economy as a solution to some of the most pressing challenges faced by children, parents and teachers in the world today. This kind of schooling really is the way of the future.” The Play Sense team raised R8.25-million in early-stage funding from USA-based Enygma Ventures in April. The private investment fund focuses on investing in women-led social impact businesses in Southern Africa. The Africa Trust Group is its local implementation partner.  The Play Sense franchise model was founded to provide high quality, cost-effective ECD business opportunities for teachers and qualified caregivers who want to run world-class preschools from homes. The model is designed for groups of up to six children between the ages of two to four to come together to play and learn in a safe home-based environment for three to five days of the week.  The franchise stable currently accommodates more than 30 groups in the Western Cape, Gauteng, KZN and online, but it is gearing to scale to 200 in-home groups and 15 online groups, as well as to have its global expansion playbook bedded down by the end of 2021. The startup successfully pivoted at the beginning of the Covid-19 crisis in South Africa to offer parents and teachers an online learning environment as well. It was this online move that ensured its funding from Enygma, whose investors wanted to see Play Sense scale and roll out its new tech platform in response to the boom in demand for online, independent home-based schools during the pandemic, and empower women entrepreneurs in the process. With the online model, the teacher undergoes the same training but can run an online school for up to 12 families who check in virtually twice a day while teaching their own children at home.  “All our teachers are trained in both online and in-home education so that they can adapt as situations change. We just don’t know what 2021 holds, so we have to be flexible,” said Faure. “What makes Play Sense unique is that it is such a cost-effective and scalable model for highly progressive preschool education – something that the market has been asking for and that will empower lots of women who are passionate about ECD to become entrepreneurs who make an impact in their communities. They can now set up schools that offer exceptional education to learners, without the high overheads of a school building because they can use their existing and under-utilised assets, their homes, instead. The fact that they work with a fully developed curriculum and fully equipped starter kit also saves them time and money, and ensures that a specific standard of education can be upheld,” said Faure.  The Play Sense curriculum is aligned with UNICEF’s National Curriculum Framework (NCF), Early Learning Developmental Areas (ELDAS), National Early Learning Development Standards (NELDs) and Operational Norms and Standards for preschool education. 

January 15, 2021
Parenting Hub

Early Childhood Development: Building Blocks for Lifelong Learning

South Africa has the goal of universal access to a full range of early childhood development (ECD) services in ten years’ time. To meet this target, we will need more than 100 000 additional early learning teachers and 40 000 new venues for three- to five -year-olds alone, say education experts. South African children are surviving rather than thriving, it was agreed at the recent Trialogue Business in Society Virtual Conference. ‘Breaking Barriers to Quality Education’ was a key theme, with these sessions presented in partnership with Old Mutual on 13 October. Panellists Nicole Biondi (Strategic Head of marketing and communications at Innovation Edge), Justine Jowell (Programme Design Lead at SmartStart) and Megan Blair (CEO Earlybird Educare@Work) discussed how to accelerate access to, and drive the enrichment of, ECD.   Moderated by Kanyisa Diamond, senior project manager at the Old Mutual Foundation, the session unpacked different early learning models. Participants considered which ECD interventions are most effective, and what needs to be done differently to achieve the goal of the National Development Plan (NDP):  universal access to a full range of ECD services for all children aged 0-8 by 2030. The South African Early Childhood Review 2019 shows that we have made some progress in terms of ECD. Maternal and child mortality rates are on a downward trend, but we still struggle with nutrition (27% of children under five suffer from stunting), support for primary caregivers, and the stimulation of early learning. Models for social impact Justine Jowell of SmartStart said systems intervention is needed to close the provisioning gap. Some 1.2 million children aged three to four years are not attending an early learning programme, 900 000 of them from poor households.  “To achieve universal access to quality early learning for all three- to five -year-olds, we need more than 100 000 additional early learning practitioners and 40 000 new venues. To reach these high numbers of excluded children, system capacity must be expanded. This needs to happen fast to bring children in sooner.” SmartStart is an example of a national early learning delivery platform that operates under a social franchise model. SmartStart currently includes 13 organisations (independent, locally based NPOs) across nine provinces in the country that form part of the SmartStart delivery platform (as franchisors), enabling SmartStart’s rapid acceleration of reach of new children in a locally relevant and responsive way. This model helps to create direct employment and support microenterprise development, especially for women. In the five years since set-up, this model has allowed SmartStart to reach more than 75 000 children, with nearly 4 000 active early learning social enterprises (franchisees) supported to run quality early learning programmes.  Earlybird, a social enterprise, provides on-site educare services to companies that want to attract and retain top talent, particularly women. “There is a good deal of evidence that employer-sponsored educare improves productivity, reducing single-day leave-taking and enabling greater female labour force participation and progression,” said Blair. A portion of net income from the for-profit side of the business cross-subsidises the non-profit side, which funds young black women to set up Blue Door Educare Centres as entrepreneurs. These high-quality educare centres serve low-income environments and also partner with social housing developers, with a goal to bring quality learning to all young children. Innovation Edge, an innovation catalyst and social impact investor, believes in supporting early learning programmes and ensuring that caregivers get support to equip children for lifelong success. In one of their projects, they work with design and manufacturing company Barrows to print and distribute early learning materials to under-resourced communities, using blank production space available on existing client print runs. The posters and flash cards they create at minimal cost are distributed at their nine business hubs in each province of the country – and they provide more than 50 000 pieces of educational material to children in under-resourced areas each month.  They have also partnered with Out There Media on the 3 Little Minutes mobile SMS campaign, which provides caregivers with data-free access to roughly three minutes of songs and stories located on a mobi-site. The campaign is delivered via the Mobucks™ platform, which links the mobile operator with businesses wanting to advertise to specific audience (thus content is sponsored). “The pilot was in English, but the next stage will include more languages,” said Biondi. “Content on the system is provided by Book Dash and Nal’ibali, and they do have content in various South African languages, in the form of songs and stories.”  Biondi said that Innovation Edge is working with government on compiling data sets of national early child assessments to understand how literate, numerate and school-ready children may be. “We really want to get South Africa excited about how children enter school, because if we can shift the way they enter schools we can surely shift the way they are leaving school.” Effective interventions A snap poll during the session asked delegates which ECD interventions they think are the most effective. The majority (62%) said training teachers works best, followed by providing nutrition (12%) and providing equipment (12%). A further 6% listed helping with registration and 6% said building infrastructure was most effective. Blair pointed out that preventing exposure to violence is also an important factor, as toxic stress has a huge effect on development. Assuming nutrition and infrastructure are in place, training is the most effective way to improve child outcomes, she said.  “There is broad agreement that in-service training is crucial – just-in-time pedagogical support – that involves meeting a teacher on a weekly or monthly basis and finding out what they are battling with.” She said this type of intervention is exponentially more effective than pre-service training. Biondi suggested that companies think about subsidising their employees’ children so they can receive quality educare, as well as considering parental leave. “Don’t just support external ECD providers. Look inside as well as outside,” she recommended.

December 9, 2020
Cleverdon Preschool

Play Based Learning in the Heart of Bryanston

Why Play based learning?  Simply put, children (and adults) learn through play, developing the whole child holistically.  Play based learning is a type of early childhood education based on child-led and open-ended play. This provides a framework for learning where children can organise and make sense of the world around them.  It is a voluntary and enjoyable activity with no purpose or end goal. If you are thinking ‘mud kitchens’ or fantasy play or finger painting, you are on the right track. Children engage in play on their own and explore different materials; they play with each other and use materials to represent other objects (symbolic play) which holds great value in developing imagination, cognitive skills and social competence. One of the elements of play based learning is it encourages the development of language skills. By interacting with their peers they develop their vocabulary and comprehension skills.  The context of play allows this to happen in a natural way and learning is amplified as it is enjoyable and relevant to the child’s interests. Music and rhyme supports the development of pre-literacy skills such as listening skills and sound recognition, laying the foundations for reading and basic literacy. It also helps to develop their memorisation skills and their ability to differentiate sounds. The development of social and emotional skills is crucial to the development and learning of a child.  Engagement in play is closely associated to the development of these skills as children share social experiences and play co-operative games.  Think team work and cooperation, collaborative planning, expressing ideas. It develops a sense of belonging.  Emotional competence and empathy are developed through play as they learn about feelings, emotions and motivation of others.  Engaging in dramatized play demonstrates ways of caring and showing empathy. Fantasy play is a vehicle for a child to make sense of the world around them and to try to understand their emotions. It fosters creativity and imagination, traits that are vital in the modern world.  Using their imagination, they are able to problem solve and find solutions to a variety of problems.  This in turn develops a natural curiosity and improved potential for learning in later life.  Imagination is all about symbols; laundry baskets become a car or a stick a sword and so on. Understanding symbols is key to reading and writing as letters are symbols. The same would apply to mathematical concepts and numbers.  Playing in the mud kitchen or baking; imagine all the measuring and filling and emptying, too much or too little, how many, too thick or too thin, too big or too small and so on;  Thus developing all the pre-maths skills. Basic scientific concepts are developed through play, for example, what happens when you stack block on top of another or  balancing one side with the other to make it stand or what does the feather or a bird feel like or the shell of a tortoise. Physical development refers to both fine and gross motor development and how a child uses their body.  Through play children build physical strength, coordination, balance, position of their bodies in space, fine motor coordination and manipulation, hand eye coordination and foot eye coordination. Running, jumping, climbing, swinging, ball games and so on.  They get a healthy amount of exercise. Children are exposed to so many different tactile experiences through their play; The feeling of wood, sand, soft toys, water, paint and more.  These sensory experiences are important for the development of the neural pathways and their sensory integration system. Art and play also include many sensory experiences.  Creative activities which are process focused, have no rules to guide the children as there is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way to create thereby allowing them to express their ideas in a way they want to and they feel successful no matter what they make. During this process there is problem solving, sequential organising, logical thinking visual perceptual and many more skills being developed. “A considerable amount of research in the field of play-based learning is indicative of the profound importance of play on the overall development of a child.  Playing helps the brain develop cognitive abilities, establish new neural connections, and make us more intelligent in multiple aspects at once.  It improves the ability to perceive others emotional states and adapt to ever changing circumstances” It’s important that when a child gets to school they are comfortable in a school setting, comfortable engaging with other children and excited to learn.  Emotional learning is as important, if not more, as academic skills learning.  This is what they will acquire in a play-based program.

October 5, 2020
Parenting Hub

Cleverdon Preschool

Our engaging and inspired teachers take a zoom class each morning at a set time where they cover brain gym/movement, theme related topics, songs, sensory activities, science experiments, baking, stories and fun activities, which develop the preschool skills. Further activities and videos are loaded onto the google classroom for each class which the parents and children can access.

May 29, 2020
Impaq

Preparing for Big School: Practical exercises to do at home

One of the most memorable days of your child’s schooling career is most definitely the first day of Grade 1. This day comes with a combination of different emotions from excitement to uncertainty and the question most parents wonder about:

April 24, 2020
Parenting Hub

Build your child’s language skills with Mzanzi Kids

Being unable to be a part of the outside world has created a new trend #learnsomethingnew among adults and children, with most of these new skills being learned through technology. Technology has recently become many things in a household: an educator, a baby-sitter, a news source and quite simply, a view to the outside world.

April 20, 2020
Parenting Hub

The importance of music in preschool

Music has been made and enjoyed throughout history, it is a powerful and effective way to spread a message, tell a story or express your feelings.

September 16, 2019
Impaq

Will your preschooler cope with the demands of school?

When your child turns 6 it usually means that it’s their last year in preschool. In a year, your child will need to start primary school, but how do you know that your child will cope with the formal demands of school? Or be able to function to his/her full potential? As a parent, you may have lots of questions about this new phase in your child’s life. You would want to know that your child is ready to start their learning journey. If your child is not ready, it could influence his/her academic performance.

August 28, 2019
Skidz

The importance of age appropriate stimulation

There have been many studies that focus on the importance of infant stimulation. It is a well-known fact that impoverished environments, under stimulation and the lack of rich and varied experiences can impair children’s development in all areas. Thus, there are many projects that focus on helping these communities and giving them the tools through training and equipping them to be able to change the cycle.  But what about over stimulation? It has been shown that environments that overwhelm children with stimulation beyond their current capacities interfere with the brain’s potential, much in the same way that under stimulation does.  Our society has become increasingly focused on stimulation. Expensive early learning programs, competitiveness and early achieving have become the norm. We have so over scheduled our children with activities that they do not have time to simply be kids and play. We do not expect a 5 month old to walk or run, why do we then expect a 5 year old to read and write?  Many children have not developed or practiced their creativity one should through boredom, as they have not had the chance to be bored. There is actually no evidence that any of this has yielded smarter, better, super babies. In fact, priming infants with stimulation that they are not ready for may cause them to withdraw, thereby threatening their interest in learning and creating conditions much like stimulus deprivation. In addition to this parents may become disappointed when despite the excessive stimulation, their children do not become little geniuses. This creates the danger that parents may view their children as failures at an early age. This in turn could result in infants being robbed of a healthy psychological start while also depriving parents of pleasurable and relaxing interactions with and participation in their children early years. The question this leaves us with is, what would the best conditions be?  Let kids be kids. Do not put too much pressure on them or expect them to do things that are not age appropriate. The ideal is to provide age-appropriate moderate stimulation in a loving environment with lots of social interactions. This has proven to be much more beneficial than expensive toys and gadgets. The Skidz Clever Activity boxes provides a program focusing on this exact finding.  Each set contains all the equipment needed to complete over 100 activities in each box. The age ranges are as follows: 0-6 months  6-12 months 12-18 months 18-24 months  2-5 years.  For more info or to purchase your box go to www.skidz.co.za or follow us on facebook at www.facebook.com/skidzsa

July 15, 2019
Toptots Head Office

Process Art and Early Childhood Development

Process art is all about the experience children have when they are creating. We encourage it at Toptots to enable the child to explore and be exposed to different mediums. Process art needs to be open ended and the child should be left alone to explore and create without any adult interference. Children learn through play and open-ended activities – this gives them the chance to explore and ask questions and see how things work. Process art is all about the actual process and not the end product.

July 1, 2019
Advtech Group

How to choose Pre-Primary School

Choosing a school for your little one should not be a last minute, hasty decision. Start looking at least three months before you need to enter your child, if you are looking to place a baby. If you want your child to join a good school when they turn three, you should start looking at birth. This may seem ludicrous but the top Pre-Primary schools have waiting lists several years long! The first decision is whether to place your child in a school near home or near your place of work. Small children suffer from many little illnesses and most schools want a sick child to go home as soon as possible. Choose a school that is close enough for someone to fetch them promptly if they fall ill. No matter how loving the care at school, a sick child just wants the comfort of home. Choose a school whose hours suit your schedule. If the school closes at 5.30pm, you must be able to reach it with time to spare, regardless of the traffic. Does the school open early enough for you to get to work? You cannot leave a small child outside the gate and assume that someone will take responsibility! There are so many places of care to choose from at the moment that you may be bewildered by the choice. Take the time to visit the school unannounced. Check the security first, it should not be possible for you just to drive in. Are there cameras at the door and an entrance procedure? Next, how are you greeted and dealt with by the receptionist? This should be efficient, friendly and with an offer to show you the school, either then or by appointment. An appointment does not mean they have anything to hide; good schools have to allocate time and staff to deal with parents effectively. Is the reception clutter free and efficiently run? Are the admittance forms neatly printed and requesting sufficient background detail on your child? When you look around, watch the children. Under-fives should be playing freely and busily with clean, unbroken toys that are well displayed to enable choice, or engaged in activities that are stimulating creativity or enhancing number or literacy skills. There should be no worksheets or cloned art work. Is the classroom clean and attractive, with good natural light and ventilation? Is there sufficient space for the children? Crowded rooms lead to fights and stress. Has the teacher (who should be SACE registered) an assistant to manage bathroom visits, messes and to support play? Is there evidence of an overall theme that the children are investigating? Are there good quality books in a comfy spot for reading? Are the carpets and floors clean? Beware of schools that are too tidy and immaculate as this could mean that the equipment is for display, not the children’s use. Children should be aware of your presence but not clamouring for your attention. What is your language policy for your child? If they are to attend Primary school in a specific language, they will be at an advantage if their early years are spent in the same language. This does not mean that you should forsake your home language. Bi-lingual children have a cognitive advantage, but do not confuse your child by subjecting him/her to a constant mixture of languages. Choose a school that will help your child enter grade 1 with a strong vocabulary and comprehension, as well as an ability to engage in their intellectual education with understanding. What do you require in the way of meals? Not all schools serve breakfast, lunch and snacks and the price should reflect what is provided. Check out the kitchen, the kitchen staff and the certificates from the local authority indicating that the school is licenced to provide meals. Look at the menus. Is there sufficient variety and fresh fruit and vegetables? Ask about who feeds the little ones and how meals are conducted for the older ones. Are the children forced to eat their meals? Can the school cater for genuine allergies, (Not fussy eaters!) If your child is still a baby, check the policies on formulas, nappies, wet wipes etc. If the school supplies everything, it may be a little more expensive but well worth your while in terms of convenience. Look at the nappy changing areas, where everything should be neatly labelled and the area safe and well ventilated, with proper disposal facilities. Potty training areas should be bright and welcoming, with small toilets for children aged two plus.  Are the baby rooms warm enough for the babies to play and crawl on the floor and not be kept in a cot all day. Who provides the cot linen and how often is it washed? There should be a nursing sister available for very young babies, as well as well-trained carers who will talk to and stimulate your child. The outdoor area should have grass, sand, water, shade and wheeled toys, as well as safe climbing and swinging equipment, appropriate for the different age groups. Children are stimulated by their environment so the garden should be attractive, bright and well supervised. Gross motor development underlies all other development at this age so there should be a minimum of an hour per morning and afternoon set aside for active, outdoor play. Last but not least, the atmosphere of the school should be welcoming and child friendly. Do not be swayed by the latest technological devices and lessons if the staff seem aloof and uncaring. With proper research your child should be happy and well stimulated in the chosen environment until it is time for Big School. Written By: Barbara Eaton (Academic Development Co-ordinator of ADvTECH Pre-Primary Schools)  

June 18, 2019
Parenting Hub

New Research on the Importance of Learning through Play

The LEGO Foundation and Sesame Workshop Highlights the Importance of Learning through Play in Parent-Child Relationships in South Africa in Celebration of World Play Day The ‘Play Every Day’ program empowered caregivers to effectively guide children in learning through play in South Africa In celebration of World Play Day, the LEGO Foundation and Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit organisation behind Takalani Sesame, announced the results of a multi-country research evaluation of Play Every Day, a program designed to shift parent and caregiver perceptions about the educational value of play and to encourage play that contributes to children’s early development and learning outcomes. The impact evaluation, conducted by an external evaluator, found significant changes in parents and caregivers’ perceptions of play and play-related behaviour, as well as improved confidence of parents and caregivers as play mentors for their children. Over the course of a 12-week intervention in low-resource communities in South Africa, India and Mexico, Sesame Workshop conducted weekly in-person play workshops or home visits, in addition to reminders utilising WhatsApp and other digital platforms and community events. The research in South Africa was conducted in IsiZulu, IsiXhosa and Sesotho in the communities of Orange Farm, Alexandra, Diepsloot and Braamfontein. Caregivers participating in the Play Every Day program in South Africa reported:  Increased frequency of play by 15% Increased confidence as “play mentors” for their children through quality play time, with an increase of 18% Increased confidence using recycled materials such as plastic bottles, cans, and cardboard rolls as play objects, with an increase of 19% in South Africa An increase of 19% in the ability to make everyday activities playful An 11% increase in the link between pretend play as a foundation for academic learning The research findings will inform the upcoming Takalani Sesame ‘Learning Through Play’ Initiative, which will reach millions of children and caregivers across South Africa through television, digital media, and targeted community engagement. The findings will also inform a USD $100 Million Humanitarian Play Programto support children affected by the Rohingya and Syrian refugee crises. The Play Every Day program empowered caregivers and children to learn together, rather than in parallel, providing valuable insights for the development of caregiver-child programming. “With such a large portion of the South African population being in low-resource settings, this research is invaluable and will guide Takalani Sesame programs in South Africa. We continue to educate caregivers and teachers on the benefits that Learning through Play provides, as one of the most powerful ways for children to learn, develop and overcome setbacks,” said Innocent Nkata, Managing Director of Sesame Workshop South Africa. The facilitated workshops, implemented through local community partners, provided primary caregivers with content that is easy to replicate at home to improve caregiver confidence in playful learning techniques and provide new ideas for engagement with children, such as building toys with recycled materials and playing pretend using everyday household items. To ensure culturally relevant and effective interventions, the 12-week intervention was preceded by three pilot phases between November 2016 and May 2018 that tested a variety of play activities, materials, and methods of facilitation for each country. “The LEGO Foundation is working to build a future in which learning through play helps all children grow into creative, engaged, life-long learners. Parents and other primary caregivers are fundamental to this aim as they are children’s first teachers and playmates. We are excited about the positive results from the Play Every Day program. We hope that these insights will inspire and empower primary caregivers in in South Africa to harness the power of learning through play,” said Kerry Kassen, LEGO Foundation Initiatives Lead for South Africa. The findings have been announced as we celebrate World Play Day on 28 May. To mark this important day, Sesame Workshop and the LEGO Foundation are partnering with Cotlands and Kagiso Trust to host an event at the Multipurpose Centre in Sasolburg on 1 June 2019. Takalani Sesame Muppets Zuzu and Kami will join over 300 children to highlight this year’s World Play Day theme, “Play is a right.” The event will feature songs, dancing, and play activities for children. “We’re deeply committed to bringing learning experiences to children across South Africa through Takalani Sesame, and we too believe that play is a right for all children,” adds Mr. Nkata. “This World Play Day, we have a lot to celebrate; with the new research findings, we will be able to build upon our work to ensure that every child has access to positive, playful experiences.”  Additional highlights from the Play Every Day impact evaluation can be found online here.

June 4, 2019
Parenting Hub

Capriccio! Arts Powered Schools – Learn@Home

Learn@Home, our school’s arts inspired online learning programme, has been specially devised to facilitate and integrate the holistic development of pre-school learners through a unique Play & Learn approach that mimics our school’s fun-filled arts powered curriculum presented on site.

May 26, 2019
Capriccio! Arts Powered Pre-School

The Value of Performance Arts in Healthy Child Development

Although some might view arts education as a luxury, creative expression is in fact a prime basic building block of healthy, well-rounded education in the early years. Learning to create & express is greatly beneficial to all children.  Benefits of Performance Arts  Motor skills: Many of the motions involved in dancing and gymnastics constitutes the foundation of gross motor development. It incorporates balance, weight distribution, strength, coordination and awareness of our bodies. And while these physical benefits are convincing in themselves, the mental and emotional effects of an environment where you are both challenged and encouraged, are of unparalleled value to a child’s development. Not many achievements are more rewarding to a child than learning and creating something, working hard and successfully mastering skills. Language, social & emotional development: Drama has long been used by childcare therapists; the benefits are countless. When exploring movement and emotion, children learn to appropriately express themselves with both verbal and non-verbal communication. This in turn gives them a head start when it comes to social interaction and interpersonal relationships. With poetry and speech, as teachers, we’re given the opportunity to lay a foundation for speech, the way it should be. During pretend play and improvisation, children learn about decision-making and responding to situations as they arise. They get the opportunity to broaden their vocabulary, improve articulation and intonation and develop breath control, to name just a few advantages; all of this whilst building self-confidence and healthy self-esteem.    Visual, audio and cognitive development: Playing a musical instrument, drawing, sculpting, threading beads and painting all develop fine motor and visual-spatial skills, which are more important than ever in treating and avoiding sensory processing disorders, as well as holistically raising a well-rounded, expressive, creative and happy child. For more information on our school’s arts powered offerings, please contact Capriccio! Arts Powered Schools for more information, be it our extra-mural programs in the afternoons, or arts powered pre-school & primary education.

April 5, 2019
Parenting Hub

Creating a curious mind and fostering life-long learning by having a growth mind-set

You can teach a student a lesson for a day, but if you can teach him/her to learn by curiosity, he/she will continue the learning process as long as he/she lives – Clay P. Bedford Children are naturally curious. They are constantly exploring the world around them; constantly asking questions, and constantly wondering how things work. The question, therefore, is not how do we create a curious mind, but how do we nurture a child’s curiosity so that they have a continued passion for learning throughout their lives.  Learning is about discovering how life works, and children are not afraid to ask the “How?” and “Why?” questions.  A curious mind is a hidden force that drives learning, critical thinking, and reasoning. It’s about having an open and active mind. It puts the brain in a state that makes learning easier, more enjoyable, and longer-lasting. Stimulating a child’s curiosity impacts their learning and development for a lifetime.  Curious children explore their environment, devour books and information, ask questions, investigate concepts, manipulates data, searches for meaning, connect with people and nature, and seek new learning experiences.  So how do we nurture this curious mind?  Model interest in the world, and teach them to be good observers When walking around wonder out loud about the things you see. The trees, the sky, etc. Follow the child’s lead  Encourage their natural interests. Children learn so much more through activities that capture their attention and interest. Encourage them to ask questions Answer their questions simply and clearly, in a way, they will understand. Before answering though, first, ask them what their thoughts are. If you do not know the answer let them know that not knowing is also ok, and then model how they can go about finding the answers (eg. Internet, talking to someone, etc) Introduce your child to the library and foster a love for books and reading, whether it be story books or about rockets. Stimulate your child with open-ended questions that can’t be answered with only a “ye”, “no” or “fine”. Create an interesting environment, continuously rotate your supply of toys to keep things “fresh”. Redirect behaviour instead of discouraging it. For example, if they like pouring out water from their cup onto the floor from their highchair, move them to the floor or backyard with a bucket in front of them so they can continue experimenting with a water.  This will also teach them problem-solving skills, creative and acceptable ways to do and get what they want.  Allow time for open-ended activities Do not tell them what to do with materials like boxes, blocks, water, sand, etc; how to do it; or what it should look like in the end. Curiosity broadens a child’s mind, and a broader mind helps in the holistic development of the child. Curiosity should therefore never be suppressed or else it can have an adverse impact on a child’s early development. As John Holt says: “Children do not need to be made to learn” since they are already born with what Einstein called “the holy curiosity of inquiry”.    By Lauren Holton, Teacher at Trinityhouse Northriding 

March 11, 2019
Junior Colleges

Does your child have enough space to play?

Play for a child, prepares them for adulthood with all life’s delights and contests. What better way to learn as a child than to be given the chance to play freely in large areas? One of my best memories as a child was of running around the field at Pre-school with my friends in tow, the real excitement at finding new treasure troves, making up games, and the tangible fear we felt, like when we had to climb a high jungle gym or run away from a scary dinosaur! Being brought onto the playground, where we would get stuck in exploring all the new possibilities there for fun, games and imagination. What a treat! Because I was fortunate enough to have a home with a large garden, I remember how liberated I felt being free to meander around without my parents watching me all the time, and how nature became my learning ground. However, I would imagine that this is not the case for most children because of the way society has changed and with many of us now living in townhouse complexes, some with very limited space. Today’s children get so few opportunities to play freely, because we understandably fear for their safety, be it the road or “stranger danger.” My own interest in play and children’s development stems from my experience of working as a Teacher and Principal for the past 27 years, where I meet the most amazing children and their parents every day and fortunately are willing to help them with any issues, usually related to their development, emotions or behaviour. From my work, research, studies and experience, I have gained a good sense of what children need to develop to their full potentials. Not a lot has been written on the benefits of playgrounds, which is surprising given that our children spend so much time in them. Below are 7 good reasons why children should have space to play, based on different aspects of a child’s development: Social, Brain and Language Development Children of all ages develop their social skills on a playground through the creation of “games”, like catch or make-believe play, where the equipment is turned into something else (e.g. obstacle course, hospital, school, etc), where children give themselves roles and they work out the “rules of the game” in cooperation. Playgrounds provide an opportunity for children to practice their social skills, to come up with solutions to problems, and to learn self-control in working out their conflicts. Play also encourages language development, as children often talk aloud during their play (e.g. “Look at me going down the big slide!”), and the interaction with their peers allows them to express their thoughts and feelings and to develop their understanding and spoken skills. I’ve noticed that children who don’t even speak the same language can get on just fine during play! Physical Development and Good Physical Exercise As children progress, they are drawn to different systems of play which encourage their development, like rough and tumble play. Children naturally seek this form of play, which helps them to work out their physical space in the world, where their body begins and where it ends. This is crucial for the development of their motor skills and spatial awareness. It’s FUN! Large open spaces encourage your children to get out there and move! It’s so much fun and exhilarating for them! Playing is your child’s most natural form of expression, regardless of their age, and when they are engaged in it they forget everything else and really enjoy the moment. By Elizabeth Steenkamp, Principal of Junior Colleges Castillian

March 6, 2019
Parenting Hub

MYSCHOOL MYVILLAGE MYPLANET AND GROW PARTNER FOR QUALITY EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

The MySchool MyVillage MyPlanet community loyalty programme has launched a new partnership with the GROW with Educare Centres project to establish 21 high-quality early childhood development centres (ECD) in under-resourced communities of Cape Town and Gauteng over the next two years.  With funding of almost R5 million, this is one of MySchool’s biggest commitments to a single project to date.  GROW with Educare’s unique model takes a multi-faceted approach to solving the ECD crisis in South Africa in a sustainable and scalable way.  The organisation is establishing a successful chain of ECD centres in under-resourced communities; managed by capable independent principals with trained, qualified teachers.  GROW with Educare is bringing private school level ECD, as well as sustainable job creation, into communities where quality Educare is currently not accessible or affordable.  “Through the use of best practice principles such as social franchising, ongoing mentorship and both business and personal development, GROW with Educare is progressively helping the women who run Educare centres move from a place of dependence to dignity,” says Tracey Chambers, CEO of GROW with Educare.  The first five years of life is the most critical of all child development phases; with nutrition, care and opportunities for cognitive, physical, social and emotional learning laying the foundations for future adult behaviours and abilities.  Deficits in ECD result in a lifetime of being disadvantaged.  Worldwide, delivering quality ECD has been identified as a key strategy to break entrenched cycles of poverty and inequality. GROW uses a tool developed by the World Bank (the MELQO – Measuring Early Learning Quality Outcomes) to evaluate whether children in GROW schools are achieving internationally benchmarked milestones of development.   “MySchool welcomes the opportunity to partner with GROW and see 21 new high quality GROW Educare Centres get off the ground over 2019 and 2020,” says Pieter Twine, MySchool MyVillage MyPlanet General Manager.  “This is a project that brings together vital education and child care, as well as entrepreneurship, employment and sustainable community development.  Each year, under-resourced pre-school centres in Gauteng and Cape Town will be transformed and brought into the thriving GROW brand community.  There will be the upgrading of facilities to meet mandatory ECD standards; leadership, business and education training for the micro-franchisee; educational training for child caregivers; provision of outstanding educational resources through GROW Learning; a healthy, balanced nutrition programme, ongoing monitoring and evaluation, as well as active mentoring, and parent and community outreach. Each school will also start the process of registration with the Department of Social Development. It’s the kind of project that matters to MySchool MyVillage MyPlanet cardholders who can support GROW by simply nominating them as a beneficiary and then using their card every time they shop at our retail partners.  GROW was established in 2013 to counteract the extreme lack of access to quality ECD in marginalised South African communities where there are hosts of working parents and pitifully few safe, quality childcare options available.  Many GROW with Educare Centres have stemmed out of grass-roots, home-based care for very young children where the infrastructure is sub-standard, child caregivers are untrained, over-crowded classrooms are the norm and educational resources are severely limited.  With its ‘education-in-a-box’ and ‘business-in-a-box’ concepts, GROW delivers a deep, ongoing intervention which results in well-supported inspirational centres of excellence that have positive ripple effects and help turn the tide against poverty and inequality in their communities. “GROW is delighted to join hands with MySchool MyVillage MyPlanet and become a cause that matters to the loyal cardholders,” says Chambers.  “We are in an important phase of building an aspirational brand using the best principles of franchising to boost education in the country.  This enables us to manage and maintain the standards in GROW Educare Centres while business owners are empowered to earn a decent salary and also offer others gainful employment.  By the end of 2019, our impact will include almost 1900 learners across 77 classrooms in 52 schools in the Western Cape, Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, and 218 jobs will be created.” To support GROW, add them as one of your MySchool MyVillage MyPlanet beneficiaries.  If you don’t have a card, sign up for free at www.myschool.co.za or download the App and nominate GROW as one of three possible beneficiaries.

February 22, 2019
Junior Colleges

FROM PLAYSCHOOL TO BIG SCHOOL: HOW TO HELP YOUR CHILD SUCCESSFULLY TRANSITION

Moving from pre-school into a formal schooling environment is a big step not only for young children, but also for their parents. Doubts and anxiety often accompany this major move, but parents should aim to ensure a conscious transition which addresses specific issues that may arise, so that their child starts their school career on a solid foundation, an expert says. “Some of the practical things can be very exciting – sorting out school uniforms and supplies, learning about the new routine, meeting the new teacher and exploring the new school grounds,” says Trudie Gilmore, General Manager at ADvTECH Junior Colleges. “However, the increased demands and unfamiliar environment can be daunting, and children need to be eased into the new situation. Additionally, parental expectations can cause unnecessary pressure at this young age,” she says. Gilmore says when embarking on this exciting new life chapter, parents and guardians should remember the following: ALLOW FOR MAKING MISTAKES The lesson is in the learning, not only the outcome, notes Gilmore. “At this age, parents should encourage their children to be more independent and, where possible, to think for themselves. Encourage your child to practise small ways to look after themselves such as dressing themselves, ensuring their bookbags are packed, and looking after their belongings. Encourage and praise them for trying, even when they don’t get it perfectly right.” PRACTISE PERSEVERANCE “It can be tremendously frustrating for young children if they are unable to complete a task to their satisfaction. Teach your child that when learning new things, it’s important that they keep on trying, even if they find things challenging. Don’t step in and ‘fix’ the situation, but rather guide, encourage and motivate.” PLAY NICELY Junior school is an important social milestone, and the time when children need to start working and engaging in meaningful play with their peers, even if they don’t automatically get along. Encourage your child to be inclusionary and kind, which will help them develop emotional maturity, as well as  confidence. “You can also prepare together by acting out different situations with toys. Playing games that involve turns or rules, such as board games, are good for practising how to get along with others. This way, children can try out some of the skills they’ll need later to make friends.” ENCOURAGE CURIOSITY “Being interested and curious about the things around us is really important for learning. Encourage your child’s natural sense of curiosity by talking to them about things, people and places when you are out and about. New research has shown clear benefits for children whose parents engage them in productive conversation, that is, where each takes turns to listen and respond appropriately,” says Gilmore. “Listen to and answer their questions, nurture their love of reading – an exciting and empowering new skill – and look things up on the computer together. Try to see the world through your child’s eyes, and talk and wonder about the everyday things you see and hear.” Gilmore says parents must be prepared to help their children navigate and manage increased stress levels caused by more challenging schoolwork, homework, assessments, diversity within the school environment, after-school activities and possible bullying. “Ensure your child is able to respond to the challenges they will face every day, by limiting any additional pressure,” she says. “And remember, sleep is key. Children who get enough sleep are likely to be less short-tempered and better able to handle school stress. Also beware of piling on extra-mural activities. We’ve come to believe that busy equals happy, but over-scheduling means less free time and family time.” Our society is expecting more and more from children at younger ages, says Gilmore. “Our job as parents and guardians is to help them understand and respond appropriately to these demands, and develop their emotional intelligence to set them up for a successful and productive school career.”  

February 15, 2019
Capriccio! Arts Powered Pre-School

Values in the Classroom

As technological advancements have swept through classrooms in the last decade, the way in which children are taught has changed, shifting towards a modernized approach. At Capriccio! Arts Powered Schools, we acknowledge the numerous benefits of technology in the classroom and create a pro-tech learning environment. We are however of the opinion that value-based learning should form  an integral part of the foundation upon which children are educated.  Our uniquely designed curriculum fosters the cognitive, emotional, physical, social and artistic development of little ones and young children. As such, our specialized enrichment programmes focus on preparing children for life by instilling within them important values, which form one of the cornerstones of our learners’ educational journey.   Combining elements of Montessori, Reggio Emilio and Waldorf, we have developed a number of unique enrichment programmes aimed at:  Instilling values like honesty, integrity and sincerity by means of story-telling, games, puppeteering and role play.  Introducing grace, courtesy, etiquette and social skills, reinforcing learning through role play, stories, puppet theatre and other media. Preparing our children for life via practical lessons learnt from the Bible. Our Christian ethos provides a consistent foundation upon which is built to instil family values – Practical lessons from the Bible form part of equipping our learners for a meaningful life.  For more information on our integrated, innovative and creative approach to providing wholesome and well-rounded pre-primary and primary education, visit: www.artspreschool.co.za. 

February 7, 2019
Toptots Head Office

Playing Smart

From the moment they can see, feel, smell and hear, your baby is learning.  What can you do to help the process along and make sure your baby is getting just the right stimulation?  Toptots Early Learning offers these wonderful tips. 0-3 months: At this age babies can’t grab or move toys around so their experience is through sight, touch and sound.  Although mobiles will attract your baby’s attention they do get bored looking at the same thing each day, so choose one with interchangeable items or put a mirror where they can see it whilst on their tummy – great for looking at “the other baby” and developing neck muscles.  Different rattles with different sounds also help to stimulate hearing, whilst at the same time making baby try and turn sideways to see where the sound’s coming from. Home-made ideas for the 0 – 3 month old: Encouraging babies to stay on their tummies isn’t easy but by half filling a 2 litre plastic bottle with water, adding some food colouring, glitter confetti, tinsel or anything brightly coloured and then sealing the lid with nail varnish, you will have a great new toy.  This toy will keep baby amused for some time but also be helping to strengthen those neck muscles whilst he is on his tummy. 4-7 months: They’ve discovered their hands which, when covered with bright socks or a wrist rattle, can be great fun.  They need different textures to try and grasp, so use soft toys and squeaker toys making a noise for them to reach for.   Hold things in different positions for them, encouraging hand eye coordination and strengthening muscles.  And don’t forget the old favourite – blowing bubbles which helps strengthen tiny eye muscles. Home-made ideas for the 4 – 7 month old: A helium balloon, filled with some rice and tied onto your baby’s foot not only makes a great noise but will encourage kicking. Please remember that balloons and their strings are a choking hazard, so if the balloon pops, please discard the pieces immediately. 8-12 months: Now baby is sitting and enjoying toys that he can manipulate.  Babies love putting things in and out of containers and finding hidden objects. Cardboard, cloth or vinyl books with different textures make great toys as well for this age group.  Who doesn’t remember the joy of a simple ball?  Give baby balls of different shapes and sizes, soft and hard, even spiky, then roll the ball back and forth between you – learning to share starts with mum and dad. Large blocks are also a win as baby knocks down the tower you built, teaching them about cause and effect.  Although they may not be able to completely master knob puzzles, they will be able to take the pieces out, which is a great fine motor skill.   Although the thought of musical instruments may sound daunting a xylophone is great for learning different notes and associating them with different keys to develop good listening skills.   Home-made ideas for the 8 – 12 month old: Give baby half a cup of frozen peas to play with.  By picking them up one by one they’ll learn fine motor coordination and to eat by themselves.  Become a magician with a cardboard paper towel tube by posting items down one end and to baby’s amazement showing how they come out the other end! 13 months – 2 years: At this stage they’re up and about, following you around, imitating your movements and looking for things to challenge their manipulatory abilities.  They’re starting to talk and understand a lot more than they can say.  Reading, maybe even the same story over and over, is a great source of joy for babies at this stage.  Reading aloud to children stimulates their interest, their emotional development and their imagination.  Remember readers are not born, they are made! Stacking rings and nesting beakers help dexterity and spatial visualisation, teaching them about size.  Push and pull toys, carts with rigid handles to load and unload are great and sorting buckets with basic shapes will teach shape recognition, encouraging hand eye coordination.    This is also the time to encourage imagination.  Tea sets for boys and girls, dolls, brooms and mops.  Babies don’t know about gender and it’s important not to stereotype them at this age. They see daddy making coffee and want to play with a tea set or dad holding a baby and want to imitate that as well. Boys with sisters get the chance to experiment with dolls but generally we don’t buy dolls for our sons – whereas we wouldn’t think twice about buying a car for our daughter…  Tunnels make wonderful birthday gifts bringing hours of fun to the mobile toddler and wooden blocks, as against plastic interlocking ones, take a lot of manipulation whilst learning to stack them.  Home-made ideas for the 13 – 24 month old: Using an old formula tin, cut a circular hole in the lid, add some practice golf balls with holes in and you’ve got a shape sorter.  Then try squares and triangles, varying the shapes as they get older.  3 – 5 years: A child of this age is testing his independence, control of language and learning new skills every day.  They need to be watched constantly as they have no sense of caution or fear.  Dressing up clothes encourages imagination.  Paint, play dough, stamping and stickers are great creative hits at this age.   Puzzles, preferably to match their interests, like trucks maybe, will encourage them to build it.  Playing and sharing activities is important now so make sure there’s ample play dates. Dolls houses and garages are wonderful gifts amusing them for hours on end.  A love of nature, collecting bugs and looking at butterflies and animals can be encouraged with books.   Home-made ideas for the 3 – 5 year old: Don’t forget to re-enact nursery rhymes like Humpty Dumpty and all the other old

December 14, 2018
Clamber Club

12345…maths for your toddler!

If you always thought that mathematics only revolved around numbers, think again! “There is a myriad of concepts that can help to prepare your child for school related mathematics,” says Liz Senior, Founder of Clamber Club and Occupational Therapist. “Pre-arithmetic readiness includes memory and sequencing abilities, the ability to understand shape, form and volume,” explains Liz. “It requires the child’s understanding of size, position, length and quantity,” she adds. Montessori found that learning about numbers requires 3 stages: The ability to sort objects into sets. Before your child can identify for example, 3 cars as being part of the same `set’, he needs to understand why they belong together. To do this, he needs to recognise the properties that cars have in common. The ability to match or pair one set of objects with another set. For example, there is one bead in this set and one shell in that set. Give the child another bead and another shell and see if he can match them together with the first set into pairs. This means that he will have 2 beads, and two shells. The ability to compare. A child needs to understand that two stones are less than 3 stones, and that 4 stones are greater than 3. Once he can do this, he can put things in an `order’.   Liz shares with us a few activities that will give you some ideas of `mathematic fun’ on a daily basis. Use them as the opportunity arises, remembering where possible to talk about what you are doing, as the physical experience and the verbal reinforcement can help to consolidate many basic concepts. As you go, provide your child with opportunities to touch things, move them around, compare them, to climb over, through, under and on top. Allow and encourage him to experiment! Numbers  Rhymes such as “1, 2 buckle my shoe,” or “12345 once I caught a fish alive” can be sung with your child even before he has a concept of the words. This verbalisation helps your child to memorise the names of numbers, particularly those from one to ten. Songs, finger exercises and rhymes with rhythmical number verbalisations all help to establish basic `rote’ counting and provide an introduction to numbers. Gradually your child will learn to count objects and understand the meaning of two or three. Quantity   When you talk to your child, include quantity in your conversation – He has “lots” of books, and I have only a “few.” He has “more” hair than you have. You have “less than” him. Put different amounts of cereal in two bowls. Discuss which one has the most cereal and which one has the least. Which one would he prefer?  Position and sequence When walking around together, try walking in a row. Who is in front, who is in the middle and who is last? Who is behind who? Swop positions and encourage your child to say where he is – in the middle, at the back or in the front. This game, once played on a physical level, can also be played using dollies and teddies or building blocks Understanding position and sequence is essential to understanding numbers and mathematics. For example, which number comes before number 5? or which number comes after seven? Length Take out some playdough and make roly poly worms together. Make long worms and short worms. Which worm is the longest and which is the shortest? Look in the mirror together and compare heights. Who is the tallest, who is the shortest? Size Collect some cardboard boxes – shoe boxes, apple boxes, fridge boxes, and cereal boxes. Ask your child to put objects in the biggest box, the smallest box. See how many objects do you have to put in the box until it is full. Which box can he fit into? For the older child, put boxes in a row from biggest to smallest. Mix beads together of different size. Show your child how to sort the beads by size into different containers. Start off with only 2 sizes and then add as your child becomes more adept. (The ability to sort into sets is a basic mathematic requirement) Shape Shapes described in mathematical terms are everywhere. Diameters, circumferences, to the square of, measurement of space – all relate to shape. Look out for square and rectangular boxes (cereal boxes, tea boxes, shoe boxes) circles (bowls, bottles, balls) and triangles (Toblerone chocolate!) Point them out to your child, discuss the shapes. Go on a shape hunt in the kitchen. Put some containers with different shape and size lids out for your child to match. Mass Look for heavy and light objects to experiment with. A bag of stones can be heavy, and you need to be strong to carry them. A balloon is light and can be hit up in the air. Explore the same concept in the bath with floating objects and sinking objects. Which object is the heaviest and which the lightest? Guess which one will float or sink. Volume Put some Tupperware containers into the sandpit to play with. Make some full of sand and leave some empty. How much sand will fit in the bucket until it is full? The same concept can be used in many ways. Your cup is full and now that you’ve drunk the water it’s empty. Show your child how to pack things in and out of boxes. Thickness Baking activities are wonderful for describing many of these concepts! Squash the dough until you have a thin layer or make a thick layer instead. Make thick biscuits and thin biscuits, big biscuits and small biscuits – and of course, count the biscuits! Cut a thick slice of bread and a thin slice of bread, look at a thick book that has many pages or a thin book. Discuss the thickest and the thinnest. Fractions Use the idea of fractions in your daily activities. Cut the bread in half, or into

November 30, 2018
Junior Colleges

How to prepare a child for an older sibling

Expecting the arrival of your second child is an exciting event, but this may not be so for your older child, especially those between two and six years old.  Start by telling your older child about the arrival of his or her new sibling. Use age-appropriate language and pictures to explain how the baby is growing so the connection can be made from about the 5th month of your pregnancy. Encourage your child to talk to and sing to your bump. Explain that the baby will not be a playmate right away and will sleep and feed most of the time but can also cry a lot because that is a baby’s only means of communication. It is important that children and parents learn together about what it means have a new sibling in the family. Let your child take part in the preparations, but constantly talk about all the excitement and preparation you made for his/her arrival. Get out the family photos and talk about how you had to feed, change, rock and cuddle him/her. Be honest about how tired you sometimes felt and that you may get tired again and not be able to play so many games together, but just for a while. When the new baby arrives allow your child to visit you and the baby in hospital. Do not hold the baby during this time until you have given undivided attention to the older child. Introduce them and allow the child to gently stroke and maybe even hold the baby with you. Now is the time to talk about how careful you must be with a small baby. Very young children could be upset, simply because their routine has been disrupted and Mom is in bed in a strange place. For them, do not put too much emphasis on the baby but spend the visit cuddling and talking. Regardless of your older child’s age, make sure that he or she gets individual attention when the new baby arrives home. (Do not arrive with the baby in your arms!) Remember to include him or her in photographs or videos you take of the baby. Sometimes children will act out with arrival of a sibling. Praise positive behaviour and give love, understanding and assurance rather than corrective discipline. They may have toilet training accidents, want to drink from a bottle or ask for a dummy. These are normal reactions that require tolerance during regressive episodes. If you make no fuss and little comment, the phase will soon pass. No one goes to big school with a dummy! Encourage your older child to be gentle with the baby and include them in activities that involve the baby such as bathing, changing and dressing. Encourage singing and talking to the baby. Babies are usually fascinated by older children. Praise him or her when they are helpful and always try and plan one on one time with them, so they feel equally important and cared for Help your child develop a sense of why they are a valuable member of the family by focusing on what they can do, and the baby can’t. Tell them that each member of the family is important for what they bring to the unit and the family needs each person for it to be whole. Raising your child to accept and adapt to new conditions within the households will assist them in future changes that may be challenging. Raising resilient and collaborative children is a priority in our world. Written by: Academic Development Coordinator of ADvTECH Schools Division, Barbra Eaton And Bev O’Shea, Principal at Junior College Preschools Tiny Town.

July 2, 2018
Capriccio! Arts Powered Pre-School

Arts Powered Learning: choosing a pre-school that fosters creative thinking and a life-long love of learning

Who Are We? Capriccio! Arts Powered Pre-School is a registered Montessori inspired ECD independent school in Milnerton. The Italian wordcapriccio has two interpretations: A lively piece of music; short and free in form. A painting or work of art representing a fantasy or a mixture of real and imaginary features. Both of the above interpretations are representative of our approach to education in the early years, which is designed to harness the full benefits of early exposure to the arts. At Capriccio! our focus is on nurturing each child’s cognitive, emotional, physical, social, and artistic development in a loving, creative and holistic learning environment. We are passionate about the role of art in education and recognise the power it has in instilling within little ones a life-long love of learning. What Are the Benefits of Arts Powered Learning? Studies have shown that exposure to arts education from a young age accelerates positive brain development. Art in all its various forms – music, drama, dance and visual art, has an infinite capacity to affect both the brain and the body, acting as a unifying force that supports and enhances cognitive, physical, emotional, and social skills in young children. Ainissa Ramirez once said, “Creativity is the secret sauce to science, technology, engineering and math.” Exposing young learners to arts powered education creates an open learning environment that fosters curiosity and encourages creative thinking and problem solving. These are transferable skills that are essential to building a strong foundation in other learning areas. We believe that children possess an innate property for appreciation and enjoyment of the arts. By engaging this appreciation from a young age, little ones are provided with a means by which to express themselves, which allows them to progress, self-actualise and foster healthy self-esteem throughout their lives. Our Approach to Arts Powered, Montessori Inspired Learning At Capriccio! the expressive needs and individual developmental abilities of each of our little ones are taken into account. By incorporating arts-driven learning and Montessori principals into our curriculum we create a learning environment which provides each child the opportunity to flourish at their own pace. Montessori is a child centred philosophy of education, which recognises that each child has the innate eagerness to acquire knowledge and a deep love of learning.  In keeping with this philosophy, we are focused on following the individual child and acknowledging his or her ability to direct their own learning journey in a carefully prepared learning environment.  We have incorporated the traditional Montessori areas of learning such as, practical life, education of the senses, literacy, numeracy and arithmetic, knowledge and understanding of the world, creativity, and outdoor learning, into our methodology and materials. As Sydney Gurewitz Clemens said, “Art has the role in education of helping children become like themselves instead of more like everyone else.” It is our belief that art has intrinsic value in giving each child the freedom of self-discovery throughout their learning journey. For more information on our philosophy and approach please visit our website:www.artspreschool.co.za

June 26, 2018
Parenting Hub

Play is crucial for early child development

Only 29 percent of South African children have access to safe, child-appropriate play areas in their communities, this according UNICEF, but a local organisation – Play Africa is championing for this change countrywide. Gretchen Wilson-Prangley, CEO of Play Africa – a social enterprise organisation driving inclusive public learning for the country’s most vulnerable says play is “exceedingly important” for children of all ages and an integral part of early learning and healthy social development. “Neuroscience has confirmed that the first few years of a child’s life is crucial for early learning. And play forms part of early learning and is far more valuable than we realise,” she says. Wilson-Prangley says play sparks imagination, enhances creativity and problem solving capacities, promotes teamwork and helps to instil empathy and compassion for others. “I believe in the importance of helping to advance children’s basic rights and this includes the right to play,” she says. And since many South African children lack toys and other learning materials that can help stimulate a range of child-initiated, open-ended activities which bolster cognitive, physical, social and emotional development, Wilson-Prangley explains that her organisation seeks to promote one single message – there is no cost to play. Their workshops encourage parents and children to make use of everyday materials when playing. “We demonstrate just how to transform everyday items into play materials using the imagination. Few people know that you’re able to make a robot or a rocket ship using clean milk containers, or a car out of empty loo paper rolls. What’s important is the process and the imagination and creativity it stimulates,” she says. Further, she says play is a “good way to engage” and helps children make use of their imagination; she also describes it as “pleasurable and enjoyable”. “Playing overall gives children an opportunity to stretch their thinking and imagination, it also invites repeated active engagement which is highly beneficial for children of all ages,” Wilson-Prangley says.  

January 19, 2018
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