Advice Column - Parenting Hub

Advice from the experts

Family Games – Bringing families together

December is family time, we travel, we gather (safely) and spend time together. Togetherness extends beyond visiting, cooking and sharing a meal however. Often these get togethers over the festive period means families are gathering but not experiencing togetherness. Often the generational gap is what’s keeping families from experiencing togetherness. Youngsters find themselves under the adults’ feet, teenagers are only interested in their phones, and the adults try their best to ensure the visit goes according to plan. A family together, yet still apart. Just like a meal brings a family together around a table, so to can the right board game assist families in bridging the generational gap and offer common ground during which the entire family can truly bond. We aren’t however asking you to pull out the 20-year-old monstrosity with missing pieces from the top shelf of the cupboard that mostly stores junk. A brand-new generation of games exist that is suitable and exciting for the entire family! Allow us to take you an a journey of games that will bring your entire family together this festive season! Are you speedy? Nimble with fingers? Drone Home is like the old school hungry hippos, but with a real flying drone! Race to launch your aliens down the ramps and land inside the drone! Watch out — there’s a delay once you make it in, so others can knock you out! If you stay in just long enough your alien escapes when the drone lifts off, you’re one step closer to winning! Get rid of all your aliens first to win! In Pencil Nose, can YOU draw a rose with YOUR nose? Think you’ve got a nose for drawing? In this hilarious party game, players use their sniffers to sketch objects and then hope their teammates can correctly guess what they’re drawing before time runs out! Simply pick a card and then, using the special Pencil Nose glasses, try to draw the object onto the screen – using only your nose! It should be easy to name 3 South African foods starting with “B” – but can you do it under the pressure of 5 seconds twisting down, and with the other players staring at you, waiting for you to get flustered? In 5 Second Rule South Africa time is not on your side, so just say what comes to mind and risk ridiculous answers slipping out as time twirls down on the unique twisted timer. It’s all in good fun with this fast-paced game where you have to “Just Spit It Out!” Pass the Bomb! The explosive word game that will blow your mind! Players nerves are tested to the limit by the threat of the ticking bomb. A card is drawn bearing two or more letters, while the variable length fuse (10 secs to 1 min) is set, and the ticking bomb is passed to the first player. In turn players must shout out a word that contains the letters on the card and pass on the bomb before it goes off! Qwirkle is the ultimate combination of set collection and pattern matching suitable for the entire family. There’s no reading required, just shape and colour recognition. This easy to learn, very simply highly strategic game is perfect to hone the tactical manoeuvres, forward-thinking and planning. Play by building lines of matching tiles based on either colour or shape and score points for doing so. Mix, match, and win! Drones, pictures, words or tiles, these games with simple gameplay and rules are still challenging enough to keep older player thoroughly entertained and engaged. The festive season is meant to bring families together and a game like one of the above is a fantastic way to build real family bonds and a sense of connection and togetherness. May a board game bring happiness home this festive season. Find these games and more at Takealot.com, Toy Kingdom, Hamleys and C.N.A.

December 14, 2021

HOW SOCIO-EMOTIONAL LEARNING IMPACTS YOUR CHILD’S ENGAGEMENT AT SCHOOL

A few kids are all-rounders, mostly engaging well in their learning and easily in their school community. Others may be consistently highly engaged in the classroom and achieve well in academics but may sit on the sidelines socially. Some are social butterflies and sports stars while their schoolwork suffers. Others flounder around in a middle ground, achieving enough to get by here and there, shifting from time to time, but finding no sustained place to shine. All of this has to do with how engaged a child may be in their own learning experience, and how engaged they may be in their relationships in their school environment. Educational Psychologist, Angela Hough explains that a child’s engagement in school is crucial to their learning, and it is not just about their learning experiences. She says, “Peer relationships and teacher-learner relationships are vital for a child’s sense of self-worth, belonging and well-being. Generally, the more a child feels valued for who they are, and the more they feel included, the happier they are, and the more they are able to contribute and experience in the learning environment. Therefore, encouraging positive relationship skills in schools is vital for learning. This can be modelled, taught, encouraged and facilitated.” Mark Anderson, Co-founder and Principal of Koa Academy, a high engagement online school says, “Socio-emotional skills can’t be taught through a curriculum as if they are hard skills like learning long division. They have to be learnt over time through modelling, practice and coaching. The school needs to provide structure for socio-emotional learning, such as we have daily Morning Connect sessions to really focus on this type of learning. We run activities focused on key social, relationship and communication skills and constantly provide opportunities for the kids to interact with each other in a safe, supportive and carefully facilitated environment” Why is socio-emotional learning important? As parents we grew up educated in the industrial era that lionized ‘hard skills’ and competitive attributes while designating communication and interpersonal skills as ‘soft skills’ of much lesser importance. Times have changed. For our kids in the 4th Industrial Revolution (4iR), their abilities to build relationships, resolve conflicts, collaborate, be an effective team member and artfully navigate communication roadblocks have become top workplace skills. Developing these competencies should not only start in school but is essential to facilitating the high engagement learning environment where academic performance also thrives. It’s important to note that socio-emotional learning doesn’t just happen in every school environment as some kind of natural consequence of bringing children together to learn. This is evident by how widespread bullying remains as an issue in South African schools. Whether your child attends a physical or an online school, socio-emotional learning needs to be intentional, and to have structure, modelling and coaching. Anderson concludes, “Having positive relationships in school, with friends, peers and teachers helps your child to be more engaged in their community, and high engagement is critical to their learning.” Discover Koa Academy here

December 13, 2021

The ecosystem to ensure your child’s online safety

Comparing our own learning to ride a bike, with teaching our children to be safer online is difficult. Growing up, our parents taught us what to look out for when we first got onto our bikes. Their parents taught them. Our parents may not have even known about smartphones when we were born As parents though, we did not grow up in the same online world that our children now need to navigate. We need to consider the online road they travel on, the type of device they drive, how your child is equipped to deal with potential danger, and the type of protection we need to offer. Keeping our children safer on the road means that we teach them the rules of the road, which signs to follow and we make sure they are wearing their protective gear, most importantly, their helmet. Fortunately, with online safety, we also have an ecosystem that we can use to keep our children safer online. We are all in this together! Working together… On one side of the ecosystem, there are different people who play a role. The most important of these are us, as parents, our relationship with our children, and the open conversations we have with them. If something goes wrong online, our children should know that we are their first safety net. Equally important are the teachers at our children’s schools. They spend time with our children and have up-to-date knowledge, especially in the way our children experience the online world, how they interact with each other, and the latest trends. We are very fortunate that we also have access to cyber-wellness experts, who publish valuable cyber-safety materials and present courses and talks on anything cyber. We also have a regime of legal experts who specialise in ICT (Information, Communication, and Technology) regulation and legislation. We can count on their support if we ever get into a situation where legal representation or advice is needed. …while making good use of technology On the other side of the ecosystem, we have hardware and software that can help us keep our children safer online. Our wifi routers in our homes can be configured, to only allow wifi access to specific devices, at specified hours and can also filter out inappropriate content such as pornography. Additionally, there is a wide variety of apps available that can help you to set screentime limits, age restrictions and content filtering on your child’s device. Most devices (whether Android- or Apple-based) have some of these settings built-in, but you can also use free, easy-to-set-up apps such as Google family link to enable this. FYI play it safe – at the center We all know technology changes extremely fast, and we also know our tweens and teenagers are smart… That’s why, at the center of the ecosystem, FYI play it safe adds the ultimate comfort to parents. FYI play it safe monitors the actual contents of every single app your child uses. Whether your child is doing a google search, chatting with his online gaming friends in a chat room, or using social media. As a parent, you don’t have to read through thousands of messages to really know what’s going on. FYI play it safe does that for you and will alert you if your child is exposed to a potentially harmful situation. Monitoring includes signs of cyberbullying, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, when they talk to strangers or predators, or if they engage in adult content such as pornography, sexting or any form of drugs. Be the cyber-smart parent. FYI play it safe is the one app no parent should be without. Download the app at www.fyiplayitsafe.com and follow the easy three-step sign-up process to start your free 7-day trial.

December 13, 2021

Child kidnapping prevention tips for all ages

News headlines across the country were dominated recently by the kidnapping of four young boys from Polokwane. They were thankfully returned with their family a few days ago, but available crime statistics seem to indicate there is a growing trend of kidnappings across our country and many of these never make the front pages. The figure for reported kidnappings in 2010/2011 was 2,839 and the upward trajectory of this particular crime by 133% by 2019/2020 places South Africa at risk of being placed on a “consolidated watch list” of countries viewed as kidnapping hotspots. According to Missing Children South Africa, a child goes missing every five hours in our country. “Parents need to empower their children, teenagers, and varsity-going young adults with all the information necessary to prevent kidnappings,” says Charnel Hattingh, Head of Communications and Marketing at Fidelity ADT. She says there are several tips for parents and family members to consider, and it starts with these safety tips to teach your kids: Children must always walk to or from school with a friend or friends. Stick to streets they know and never take shortcuts through quiet areas or empty parking lots and never walk with cell phones and iPads in full view. If they get picked up at school, they should never leave the premises but always wait inside the school grounds for their lift to arrive. Younger children particularly must never get into a stranger’s car– even if the stranger claims that someone they love is hurt and that they have been sent to pick them up. Remind them that you would never send someone they don’t know to fetch them. Consider using a password system. If the person coming to collect you from school cannot repeat the password that you and your child agreed on, they should not get into the car but immediately ask for help. If a stranger approaches your child, they should not talk to them no matter how friendly they may seem. If someone tries to grab them, they need to fight, kick and shout. If your child does encounter any suspicious activity, encourage them to get a good look and memorise their physical details and clothing, as well as the vehicle they are in. Listen for any names or other details that might help identify them later. Make sure your children memorise their full names, address, and phone number. Using a play phone, teach them when and how to dial 10111. If they are older they should have some emergency numbers programmed into their phone or consider having a safety App on their phone. Hattingh says there are also tips for older children, such as those of varsity age: Older children should be reminded to keep their valuables out of sight at all times and not to use headphones because this will dampen their ability to sense their surroundings. The more you cut your senses off the easier it is for someone to take you by surprise. Stay alert! Alter their route: If they are walking home or to public transport, they need to alter their route. Even if it takes longer, always use a route that is well lit and populated with houses and other walkers instead of taking shortcuts through less-friendly areas. If you feel threatened, you can at least knock on someone’s door for help if you’re walking through a familiar neighbourhood. If you are using a taxi service, ensure that it is a bona fide service provider. Be extra cautious to go and meet anyone who befriends you on social media. Always meet in a public space with two or three friends as backup. Be cautious to be lured by people offering you a job or modelling contract. Remember safety in numbers. “When it comes to kidnapping, the more knowledge both the parent and child have, the better their chances of identifying kidnappers and preventing the unthinkable from happening. As parents, we don’t want our children to live in fear. Still, we live in a world where bad things happen,” says Hattingh.

December 10, 2021

Give your body a leg up – immune boosting

Now more than ever we need to find ways to boost our immune systems as much as possible. And, while there are no medications or immunity-boosting supplements that can cure or prevent the coronavirus, there are some simple lifestyle changes we can make and steps we can take to strengthen our defences. Good nutrition can also reduce developing other health problems including obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and some types of cancer. Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund says, ‘Eating a healthy diet, high in immune-boosting nutrients, is just as important during this pandemic. What we eat and drink can affect our body’s ability to prevent and fight disease and recover from it. This is one of the ways in which we can improve our health proactively.’ What is the immune system? The immune system is a complex network of cells and proteins that defends the body against infection. It also keeps a record of every germ (microbe) it has ever defeated, so it can recognise and destroy the microbe quickly if it enters the body again. There is no magic pill that will instantly boost your immune system. However, together with a healthy lifestyle, various supplements can boost your immune system and give you a fighting chance. Together with those people who have not been vaccinated, it is well documented that people with co-morbidities and poorly functioning immune systems are at the highest risk of getting really ill from Covid-19. Although you cannot suddenly reverse a co-morbidity or instantly boost your immune system, now is a good time to make your health and natural defences a priority. Tips for maintaining a healthy diet: Eat a variety of food, including wholegrains (like maize, oats, rice, and legumes) as well as plenty of fruit and vegetables in your diet Limit salt intake to 5 grams (a teaspoon) a day Eat moderate amounts of fats and oils. Avoid saturated fat (animal fat). Try steaming instead of frying when cooking Limit sugar intake. This includes sweets, fizzy and sugary drinks. Choose fresh fruit over biscuits, cake, and chocolate Drink water. Good hydration is crucial for good health so make sure you drink enough water. There are many foods with high water content – such as cucumbers and celery – add these or lemon and mint, to a glass of water. ‘Ideally we should try and get all our vitamins from the food we eat. However, that’s not always possible which is why taking vitamin supplements can help bridge the gap,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘The recommendation for general health is a combination of essential vitamins and minerals to keep your body healthy.’ Vitamin C: Key to fighting infection is to increase white blood cell production, eating foods high in vitamin C – such as grapefruit, oranges, sweet red pepper, broccoli, strawberries, kale, and tomato juice – are thought to help plus Vitamin C has been shown to reduce the duration and severity of upper respiratory tract infections. Beta-Carotene: Beta-carotene converts into vitamin A, which is an anti-inflammatory vitamin that can help your antibodies respond to toxins, such as a virus. Beta-carotene is found in carrots, spinach, kale, apricots, sweet potato, apricots, and squash. Vitamin E: Is an essential antioxidant that helps fight cell damage and supporting immune system function. Foods rich in vitamin E include nuts, peanut butter, seeds, avocado and spinach. Antioxidants: Green tea is packed with antioxidants that have been shown to enhance immune system function. It also contains amino acids that may aid in the production of germ-fighting compounds in your T-cells, which reduces inflammation in the body and helps fight infection. Vitamin D: This vitamin also fights off infections and maintains strong bones. It is found in salmon, canned tuna, egg yolks, milk, cereals, breads, and mushrooms. Alternatively, make sure you expose your body to 13-15 minutes of sunshine three times a week for a natural Vitamin D fix. Studies have shown that Vitamin D can expedite healing and stall inflammation in the respiratory system but there has not been robust clinical evidence to prove its use against Covid-19. Probiotics: Live cultures, known as probiotics, are said to help stimulate the immune system to fight off disease. Yogurt, Kombucha, Sauerkraut, Kimchi, pickles as well certain types of cheese contain live cultures. Vitamin B-6: Is essential in the formation of new and healthy red blood cells and helps maintain the lymphatic system. Chicken, turkey, cold-water fish (salmon and tuna), chickpeas (traditional hummus), bananas, fortified breakfast cereal and nutritional yeast are great options for consuming vitamin B-6. Zinc: Is a mineral that our body doesn’t store or produce, however our Immune system cells need zinc to function as they are intended, it boosts the metabolism along with healing wounds. Red meat, shellfish, poultry, beans/legumes, and nuts/seeds are high zinc foods. ‘During this global pandemic we need to understand that our actions are not just to protect ourselves but also those around us,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘The risk of contracting Covid-19 is higher in crowded spaces so, reiterating what the President said, we need to heed the call to make sure you socialise outdoors or have plenty of fresh air flowing through your homes and workplaces. The World Health Organization talks about avoiding the 3Cs: Spaces that are closed, crowded, or involve close contact. ‘We need to work together to contain the spread of Covid-19 especially during the various mutations of the virus. With the 4th wave upon us, we need to vaccinate, wear masks, keep our distance, follow good hygiene protocols, boost our immune systems and get plenty of exercise and fresh air.’

December 10, 2021

Nappy rash 101 with Sudocrem Skin and Baby care cream

Nappy rash is extremely common and can happen at any time during your child’s nappy wearing stage. It can (literally) be a pain in the bottom! However, there are several things that you can do to try and keep it at bay and make life a little more comfortable for your child. Firstly, keep in mind that every baby is unique, and the severity of nappy rash will vary. Some babies may not develop it at all. Some babies’ skin is more sensitive than others and their skin reacts differently to external factors. Understanding the cause of nappy rash is essential for dealing with it effectively (although sometimes babies will experience nappy rash for no obvious reason). It’s essentially an irritant caused by soiled or wet nappies, friction, and a lack of air circulation. Having plenty of nappy-free time is extremely beneficial – allowing the skin to breathe can truly work wonders. Remember to never leave your baby unattended. Keeping your baby’s nappy clean is critical. Regular nappy changes are recommended especially after the baby urinates or has a bowel movement. Wash your hands before and after you do so. Wipe your baby’s bottom from front to back and make sure it’s completely dry before putting on a nappy. Apply a light, easy-to-rub barrier cream like Sudocrem Skin and Baby Care Cream to the skin at every nappy change, not just when they have a rash. Protecting your baby’s bottom from the start can help to prevent nappy rash and soothe it if it develops. Make sure you use the correct size nappies for your baby and don’t put them on too tightly. This can cause friction and irritation, redness, and a sore bottom. You may need to try a few different brands and/or sizes of nappies before you find the one that fits your baby perfectly. If the nappy rash doesn’t get better within a few days, spreads further, becomes oozy, or if your baby develops a fever this could be a sign of infection. Seek medical advice from a doctor/ paediatrician.

December 10, 2021

Sunscreen vs sunblock: What’s the difference?

Sunscreen or sunblock? Is there a difference? As it turns out, yes! To better understand which is best to use, let’s have a look at the differences and the similarities. Sunscreens (also called chemical sunscreens or organic sunscreens) are ingredients that need to penetrate your skin. This way, they can surround your cells in the upper layers of your skin to protect your skin from UVA and UVB frequencies. These sunscreens are designed to absorb the energy produced from these specific frequencies of light then convert them into other forms of energy to protect you. Sunblock (also called in-organic sunscreens or physical sunscreens) were thought to reflect sunlight. However, research has shown that a lot of their protective action is also related to the fact that they absorb and convert sunlight energy. So, is one a better protector than the other? Not at all. They are both provide the same amount of protection from UVA and UVB frequencies of sunlight. The biggest difference between the two is that they will feel different on the skin. The absorption issue Do you wear make-up or wear your sunscreen with other skincare products? In this case, organic sunscreens are a good choice as they absorb into the skin and leave less of an oily residue. You’d also have slightly better UVB protection with an organic sunscreen. Still, they’re not water-resistant, so they wouldn’t be an option if you were taking part in a Tri-Athlon or heading to the beach. As for in-organic sunscreens, these will absorb to a smaller extent. They tend to lie on top of the skin and leave an oilier residue. They also tend to leave a white cast on darker skin tones. For these reasons, those with oilier skin types or darker skin tones might prefer to use sunscreen rather than sunblock. The bottom line At Lamelle, we use organic sunscreens in our products because they provide a broader percentage of protection (our critical wavelength with Lamelle Helase 50+ is 379nm where most sun protection products only protect up to 360 nm) .They also absorb into the corneum (the outer layers of your skin) and don’t leave a white cast on the skin. So, if you want superior protection that’s also picture-perfect, the better choice is an obvious one. To learn more about Lamelle Helase 50, visit www.lamelle.co.za

December 10, 2021

Summer Skin Protection for Sensitive Pockets

Summer is popularly associated with warm, radiant skin. Yet, what many people don’t understand is that the same sun that gives you your glow can also cause dehydration and damage to your skin. Therefore, ensuring that you have nutrient packed skincare products to keep your skin healthy is essential, and luckily, Bramley’s new Magnolia Range for sensitive and dehydrated skin is exactly what you need in these harsh summer conditions and it won’t cost you an arm or a leg either. The sun travels to the Earth’s surface in two different forms: as UVA rays (longer, less harmful rays) and UVB rays (the infamous shorter waves responsible for sunburn and skin damage). Although your body does have protective measures to limit the damage done to it, such as producing melanin or peeling after severe burns, your skin still needs moisture and vital vitamins replenished daily. Bramley’s ultra-convenient Magnolia Tissue Oil Sensitive Skin Spray(R26.99) packs a serious “pick me up” for slightly sun damaged or stressed skin. With a concentration of 100% natural Argan, Olive, Jajoba oils and vitamin E at its core, this spray has immense anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant properties, meaning it tackles free radicals found in your skin. If you have a damaged skin barrier, your sunscreen is less likely to bind with and integrate into your skin, resulting in stressed skin being preyed on by UVB rays. Therefore, repairing your skin barrier should be your top priority when approaching the summer season. Repairing damaged skin cells requires a powerhouse of vitamins and active-ingredients that target damaged, dehydrated skin. With a cocktail of nourishing Vitamin E, soothing Jojoba oil and softening Argan oil, the Magnolia Tissue Oil Sensitive Serum (R24.99) and the Magnolia Tissue Oil Gel (R26.99) offers intense moisture and nourishment for delicate skins. Easily absorbed and non-greasy, they have been dermatologically approved to treat dehydrated skin and return skin health to uneven skin tone, scars and stretch marks. Bramley’s doesn’t want to you forget about the rest of your body either when it comes to this sunny season. Created to specifically target dull appearances, rough skin spots and dehydration, Bramley’s Magnolia Tissue Oil Sensitive Skin Body Lotion (R24.99) is a cream enriched body lotion packed with their signature Bio-pharm and other natural oils curated to leave you with smooth and stunning skin. Yes, sun exposure is essential for many beneficial body functions – creating Vitamin D for collagen production; regulating sleeping patterns and giving us a mood boost – but overexposure can have long term negative effects on our skin. Get ahead of the sunbeams this summer by keeping your skin moisturised, protected, and packed fill of vital vitamins and antioxidants. With your skin’s health in mind, the sunny season is yours to enjoy stress-free and sun protected.

December 9, 2021

The best defence is a multi-defence

Shew, the disruption, stress, fear, and grief that Covid-19 has brought into our lives! We have no choice but to keep on doing the best we can to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Nearly two years into the pandemic there is much scientific evidence about how individuals can ward off the virus, prevent hospitalisation or support recovery. Fortunately, we live in a country with a well-respected medical body which has informed South Africa’s vaccination rollout, and a professional and compassionate healthcare fraternity that goes the extra mile for their patients. Still, as individuals, we have a huge part to play in our own defence, and as always, the best defence is to adopt a multi defence strategy. “Face masks combined with other preventive measures, such as getting vaccinated, frequent hand-washing and physical distancing, can help to slow the spread of the virus” As many of us return to the office and congregate indoors over meals and drinks, we also need to think about ventilation to minimise the indoor spread of Covid-19. And we can power up our body’s natural immune defences to fight against the onslaught of contagious infections, germs which are everywhere, poor diet, stress and pollution. Things we can control: Eat healthily, which means more vegetables and fruit and cutting back on deep fried and stodgy fast foods. Move regularly. This can add up to big health and fitness benefits, for example, 20 minutes of brisk walking five or more days a week has been shown to boost immunity. Plan fun active get-togethers with family, friends, or colleagues. Think bike rides or walks to collect coffee, start up a backyard cricket or footy game, take a ball or frisbee for play dates. Supplement healthily. Well-respected nutritional supplier, Nativa, has a range of immune boosting nutritional supplements. Check them out on https://www.nativacomplex.co.za/immune-health/#nativa-complex-multi-defence Look out for new Nativa Complex® Multi-Defence tablets, a health supplement formulated to deliver the benefits of two immune and antioxidant boosting vitamins (Vitamins C and D) and minerals (zinc and selenium) to promote antioxidants and good health. All products are available from Takealot, Dis-Chem, Clicks and selected pharmacies nationwide. WIN! A Philips Air Fryer valued at R1600 from Nativa Complex® Immune Boosting Supplements when you click here

December 9, 2021

Ecofriendly alternatives for a spotless home with Earthsap

The average person – that’s you and me – spends approximately two cumulative years throughout our lifetime cleaning our house. Two years of cleaning and household chores calculates to more than 17 500 hours exposed to detergents, chemicals and harsh solvents inside your home. Conventional cleaning products impact human beings, with links to health concerns such as asthma, cancer, reproductive disorders, hormone disruption, accidental poisoning in children and rising numbers in neurotoxicity, not to mention the toll these cleaners take on the health of our environment. In the wake of the pandemic, as we approach a new year, we are witnessing a rise in consumer passion in addressing environmental challenges, together with a renewed commitment to changing our own behaviours to advance global sustainability. Green alternatives to household cleaning products have been scant on the retail shelves until now, but true to Nature, Earthsap is a brand which has been healing our plant at grassroots level for more than twenty years, refining their wide range of household cleaning products which contain ingredients such as coconut, palm oil, citrus and botanicals scented with pure essential oils. Today, with more than 25 target-specific cleaning products for maintaining hygiene in your home safely and naturally, you have an opportunity to choose responsibility when you purchase cleaning products that contain no irritants that could potentially cause allergies or skin irritants. The good news is that everyone within your home can be safely exposed to Earthsap cleaning products including pets, children and the environment. Earthsap provides eco-friendly, biodegradable, anti-fungal and vegan alternatives to keeping your home spotless and your loved ones healthy, from the kitchen to the bathroom, floor to countertop, without you having to come into contact, inhale or store harsh and poisonous solvents in the kitchen of bathroom cupboard. Child friendly, kind to your skin and safe for your septic tank, Earthsap’s range of targeted cleaning products are the reason there should be no other alternatives to cleaning our homes if we really want a greener world. Let’s take a look at just three of Earthsap’s super stars; those specific cleaners we use most often over wide areas within our home. Earthsap’s All-purpose Cream Scrub (R54.99) has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties and degreases and removes stains without scratching surfaces. It eliminates mould and mildew making it suitable for cleaning countertops, sinks, tiles, metal and other work surfaces. If you prefer a liquid to a cream scrub Earthsap’s Kitchen Cleaner (R69.99) is a twin alternative. It comes in a spray bottle and effectively dissolves grease and grime which builds up on stoves, microwaves, kitchen counters and sinks. Earthsap’s Dishwashing Liquid (59.99) also has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties as well as a strong formulation that lasts to ensure your dishes are sparkling clean without impacting the environment or your health. It is also kind on your hands and suitable for mild to sensitive skin thanks to the natural ingredients. For those sticky messes on the floor try Earthsap’s Floor & Tile cleaner (R74.99) uses soap and citrus oils to loosen the dirt as well as microbials, which release organisms that break down dirt, fats and odours. Earthsap’s Citrus Bathroom Cleaner (R69.99) will leave your bathroom not only looking fresh but smelling fresh too. It cleans and disinfects all bathroom surfaces, removing stains and dirt without scratching or yellowing surfaces, as well as eliminates mildew using only pure, safe and natural ingredients. With just four of Earthsap’s heavy lifters in your cleaning arsenal, you can make a big difference to your health and the future of the environment. With a cleaning solution for every part of your home, Earthsap has more great advice and natural cleaning remedies for you to try when you view the range at www.earthsap.co.za Earthsap products can be purchased at Wellness Warehouse health shops nationwide, www.faithful-to-nature.co.za and selected Spars and Pick ‘n Pays.

December 9, 2021

SCHOOL CHILDREN AND THEIR CHANGING NUTRITIONAL NEEDS

As our kids enter their school-going years their growth is steady, but slower and somewhat less dramatic when compared to the rapid baby-toddler-to-little-person transformation. It’s an interesting time nutritionally as school-going children tend to be more open to trying different foods and are developing their foodie likes and dislikes. They are more able and adept at learning about different foods and their nutritional impact, so you can really start communicating with them about the importance of food and healthy eating. Many of our lifelong dietary habits are rooted in this young life-stage. According to Zelda Ackerman, a registered dietitian and spokesperson for ADSA (The Association for Dietetics in South Africa) the primary school-going age is an ideal time for parents to help set our children up for a lifetime of healthy eating. She says, “What happens around food in both the home and school is really important not just to ensure optimal nutrition for growing bodies, but to educate our children about how important daily food choices are to our overall health and our abilities to perform well in life. For instance, balanced nutrition is vital for developing strong bones, teeth and muscles, as well as supporting our immune system to prevent disease. However, it impacts too on our abilities to focus and learn in the classroom, and to achieve in sports and other physical activities.” Physical growth demands energy, and children’s energy needs are high. According to another ADSA spokesperson, Vanessa Clarke, also a Registered Dietitian, “These energy needs increase as children get older and are influenced greatly by a child’s level of exercise. As children move through the various school levels, their energy demands will increase which means they need more carbohydrates, protein and fat to support necessary bodily functions and their growth. Children may also require increasing amounts of certain vitamins and minerals as they get older. Some children going through adolescence who are physically active each day may require more energy in the form of calories than even an adult female or male. It’s also important to remember that children continue to grow and develop well beyond their tweens and during their teenage years into young adulthood.” During your child’s school-going years, it’s essential to get a good start to the day in the form of a sufficient balanced breakfast, even if it is a breakfast on the go. A balanced breakfast means that the meal includes high-fibre carbohydrates (wholewheat toast, oats, granola), protein (eggs, cheese, yoghurt) and fat (avocado, nut butters, olive oil), as well as vitamins and minerals (fruit and/or veg). This sets them off to school with a powered up brain and energy to spend. It’s typical for school-going children to need to eat four to five times a day – their snacks are really important, so don’t skip or skimp on their lunchboxes. What is an optimal school lunchbox? Depending on their school age and their after-school activities, your child’s lunchbox may be their snack or their midday meal. For older children participating in late afternoon after school activities, their lunchbox may need to contain their morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack. You need to adjust the quantities based on the day’s schedule and your child’s level of physical activity. In order to ensure the lunchbox is optimal nutritionally, always strive for a balanced snack or a balanced meal containing all the essential nutrients. Focus on home-prepared wholefoods rather highly processed snack foods. Vanessa offers this suggestion: Include high-fibre carbohydrates such as wholewheat bread, wholewheat wrap or high fibre crackers such as Provitas. Choosing a high fibre option ensures they stay fuller for longer, and have a more sustained level of energy Add a fruit like an apple, naartjie, banana or nectarine Pop in a portion of vegetables such as sweet pepper strips, cucumber wedges or carrot sticks Include a protein portion by making a chicken mayo sandwich with the high-fibre bread, or add chicken drumsticks, meatballs, biltong or cheese Make sure they have their freshly filled up water bottle to meet their fluid needs. You can add a sprig of mint, a lemon slice or a few blueberries if they prefer flavoured water. Avoid any sugar-sweetened beverages that contribute towards obesity and tooth decay If your child will be having a longer school day, add extra portions of fruit and veg and raw nuts, and consider including a yoghurt or smoothie. Older children participating in sports may also need an extra wholewheat sandwich and additional lean protein portions to help preserve lean muscle mass. Dealing with the challenges of food at school School tuck shops can be a source of food for your children, but parents need to be aware of what kinds of foods and drinks are on offer. There are many convenience and snack foods that, although marketed to children, are nutrient-poor and contribute to rising childhood obesity. School tuck shops that do not have well-informed, dietitian-led healthy eating policies often offer these types of foods because they are popular with children and drive profits. Zelda says, “Parents need to stand together and approach school governing bodies to raise their concerns about unhealthy food being offered at school. Of course, children like sweets, chocolates, crisps and sugary drinks – and if they are on offer, that’s what they will choose. School tuck shops need to be committed to only offering healthy food, snack and drink options. A registered dietitian can help parents with a list of healthy tuck shop food and drink options.” Under-resourced South African schools also face school food challenges with many parents concerned about the nutritional quality of the school’s nutrition programme. Zelda says, “Sometimes, there are problems around the inadequate supply of food to address child hunger, but a persistent issue is the lack of fresh vegetables and fruit. Here, parents can help to motivate or get involved in the establishment of school food gardens to supplement school meals. Many nutritious vegetables such as spinach, beetroot, tomatoes, beans and butternuts are easily grown by beginner gardeners. Schools

December 9, 2021

7 Ways You Can Be An Eco Friendly Parent

There’s nothing more rewarding than being a parent, but if you’re trying to be more eco friendly, you know that having a little person in the house makes it difficult. There’s something about kids that just generates more and more stuff, and with that comes waste. Don’t fear though, as you can make some changes to become a more eco friendly parent. Here are some tried and tested tips to help you do so. 1.Pick Out Eco Friendly Diapers There’s no denying that diapers are expensive, and harmful to the planet. You don’t want to contribute to landfill, but you have to use them in some form. These days, you do have options. Many parents like to use cloth diapers. They won’t go into landfill as they’re reusable. Simply wash them once they’ve been worn, dry them, and they’re ready to be worn again. Don’t want to spend time washing diapers? Then you can find eco friendly diapers, that are designed to degrade better in landfill to minimize their impact. 2.Minimize Bath Times You can conserve water by minimizing how often you bathe your child. It’s usually best to bathe them a few times a week, rather than every day. This has other benefits too, such as preventing your child’s skin from drying out. At bath time, make sure you’re using eco friendly products, too. You want to use products that don’t have added scents, as these will irritate your child’s skin and sometimes lead to health problems. 3.Avoid Fast Fashion This sounds hard to do, as kids outgrow their clothes so quickly. You don’t want to support less than ethical clothing practices, but you need to keep that clothing budget to a minimum. There are ways around this, though. For example, if you have friends or family who have kids a little older than yours, you can get hand me downs from them. They’ll usually still be in great condition, as the kids wouldn’t have had long to wear them before they outgrew them. You can also find second hand clothing stores online, where you can find good quality second hand clothing. The more second hand you buy, the less clothing is going into landfill. 4.Breastfeed If You Can There are so many reasons why breastfeeding is good for your baby, but one you may not have thought of is that it’s so good for the environment. Think about it, breast milk is naturally renewable, comes in no packaging, and has lots of health benefits. Of course, not everyone can breastfeed so if you’re not able to, don’t worry. It’s worth giving a shot though, as it’s so good for the planet. 5.Ditch The Car You don’t have to go everywhere by car, all the time. While there are some times when it will be easier to hop in the car, try leaving it at home sometimes. You’ll be helping the planet by reducing your carbon emissions. Plus, kids often love public transport like buses and trains, so they’ll have a great time taking an outing with you. 6.Unplug Sometimes Did you know that around a quarter of the energy consumption in your home is from electrical devices? You can save energy by switching them off sometimes, and you’ll lower your energy bills too. Instead, use these periods to spend more time together as a family. You can play board games or simply chat together, whatever works. You’ll help the environment and grow closer as a family. 7.Buy Used Books You want your kids to have plenty of books to read, but the problem is new books can actually harm the planet. Around 10% of all greenhouse gases in the US come from the paper industry alone, so you can do your bit by buying second hand books. You can also sign up with your local library, and check out new books all the time. There’s lots of ways you can be an eco friendly parent, and you don’t have to make big changes in your life to do so. Try these tips, as they will help you reduce your impact as a parent while still doing your best for your kids.

December 9, 2021

This holiday don’t let periods cramp your style

The festive season is upon us and for some moms this could be a period where you have just given birth and you are slowly getting back into your menstrual cycle and routine again. There is no perfect preparation, but there are great support options that include herbal extracts to take care of common issues such as primary dysmenorrhea (extreme period pain) and menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding) with minimal to no side effects. The Salome product range is locally manufactured by South African pharmaceutical company 3Sixty Biomedicine and offers over the counter treatment options to help manage heavy menstrual bleeding and menstrual pain and is based on herbal extracts. The efficacy of natural ingredients included in their products is backed by science and medical studies, which is why their products are also recognized and reimbursed by certain medical aids. The Salome team works with health practitioners and experts to bring awareness and clearly differentiate what is deemed a healthy menstrual cycle and what is not in an effort to educate females of all ages on common women’s health conditions that can and should be treated. They believe that #yourjourneymatters and no one should have to sacrifice a good quality of life due to common but treatable health conditions that tend to cramp your style, which is why employing a proactive approach in getting an early diagnosis and identifying treatment solutions is key. Is menstrual pain considered a medical condition? Primary dysmenorrhea, the technical term for period pain without the presence of other conditions such as endometriosis, is the most common gynaecologic problem in women of all ages and races with the menstrual cramping being severe enough to interfere with daily activities, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Salome Menstrual Pain is a product based on herbal extracts of yarrow (Achillea millefolium) which has antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory & analgesic effects, which may provide relief for spasm associated with menstrual periods. What is great about Salome Menstrual Pain is because it contains natural ingredients, even teenagers who suffer from menstrual pain can use it to manage painful menstrual cramping without worrying about unwanted side-effects. Developing good eating habits and a consistent exercise routine even while you are on holiday is also a great way to help manage this condition. A holiday myth busted about what you can do when you have your period Menorrhagia, the technical term for heavy menstrual flow and prolonged bleeding, or having your period in general should not stop you from swimming over the holidays. In fact, it’s believed that swimming and exercising in general can actually help keep you cool and release endorphins which are nature’s pain reliever. Also taking a leaf from mother nature’s book, is the Salome Heavy Menstrual Bleeding product that helps alleviate this condition by drawing on herbal extracts from Capsella Bursa-Pastoris, a medicinal plant also known as Shepherd’s purse. This active ingredient assists with the reduction of heavy menstrual bleeding in women with regular menstrual cycles. The medicinal benefits of this plant have been scientifically proven to have smooth muscle stimulant effects and as an added bonus, Capsella has antioxidant features that improve uterine tone, meaning that it will facilitate the regulation of menstrual blood flow. Salome Heavy Menstrual Bleeding also has anti-inflammatory properties that can have a positive impact on the management of heavy menstrual bleeding. The full Salome range that contains natural ingredients is available online at Takealot.com and www.salome-range.co.za, as well as over the counter at most pharmacies nationwide. We hope you enjoy the upcoming festive season and holidays and make sure to follow the Salome range on their social media pages to hear from Salome experts about common women’s health conditions and how best to manage these – no matter what time of year or stage of life you’re in. Facebook: Salome Range Twitter: SalomeRange Instagram: SalomeRange

December 8, 2021

Summer beauty and grooming problems, fixed!

Lazy days spent on the beach or next to the pool, braai’s with friends and sundowners with a view… Summer is our favourite time of year. But like all seasons, it comes with a unique set of beauty and grooming challenges. A shiny forehead, a sweaty scalp, green hair, runny mascara… Sound familiar? Here, the solutions to fix summer’s most common beauty and grooming problems. Makeup meltdown Because most foundations are liquid, they can literally melt and slide down your face when the humidity is very high, or when you sweat. Experts suggest ditching your HD or full-cover foundation in summer and opting for a light or dewy finish instead. We recommend wet n wild Photo Focus Dewy Foundation (R129.95). This weightless, super-nourishing foundation delivers natural all-day wear and has a moisturising formula that blends into the skin seamlessly. Using a primer to prep your skin beforehand will help set your foundation and prevent it from sliding. It’s important to use a silicone-free primer, as silicone makes it difficult for skin to breathe and can result in sweating, which will worsen the problem. The newly-launched wet n wild Prime Focus Impossible Primer (R189.95) is a first-of-its-kind silicone-free primer that is both mattifying and hydrating, making it the perfect primer for warmer weather. Mascara doesn’t only run when you go for a swim – it can also leave you with panda eyes when you sweat. The best solution is a long-wearing waterproof mascara. Not only will it stay on when you go for a quick dip in the pool, but it will also last throughout the day, regardless of humidity and sweat. Try wet n wild Mega Length Waterproof Mascara (R94.95). It visibly lifts and lengthens each and every lash for maximum, covetable length, and stays put all day. Shiny skin This is a major summer concern for both men and women. Our skins produce more sebum in summer to try counteract the drying effects of the sun. This can leave you looking shiny (think glazed doughnut rather than dewy) and if not managed properly, this excess sebum can clog pores and lead to breakouts. A few tweaks to your skincare regime will go a long way in managing shine and preventing breakouts. Use a good quality foaming cleanser twice a day to remove excess oil and impurities and follow with a lightweight moisturiser that provides adequate hydration without clogging pores. We recommend the new Nip+Fab Salicylic Fix Gel Cleanser (R219.95). Salicylic acid helps lift away dirt, impurities and excess oil whilst allantoin provides a moisture barrier and locks in hydration. The Salicylic Fix range also includes an Exfoliating Scrub (R219.95), a Lightweight Moisturiser (R219.95) and Blemish Fighting Spot Patches (R170.00) which may come in handy when the odd spot appears. Pigmentation Our skin can develop sun-induced pigmentation all year round, but the fact that we spend more time outdoors in summer makes us more susceptible to it. Introduce vitamin C skincare products into your regime to help brighten the skin and make it more resilient to the effects of UV exposure. Vitamin C helps inhibit melanin production which reduces pigmentation and evens out your skin tone. Try Creightons Vitamin C Superfruits 2% Ultra Glow Serum (R139.95) and Skin Radiance Moisturiser (R89.95). These products work together to brighten skin, assist the regeneration process and protect against sun-induced pigmentation. Green hair Ever heard that chlorine in swimming pools can turn blonde hair green? It’s not a myth! Chlorine oxidises the hard metals found in water. Because our hair is porous, it absorbs these oxidised metals, which results in a green tint. The number one tip is to never go into a pool with dry hair. Always drench your hair with fresh water from the shower before a swim. If your hair is already saturated when it comes into contact with chlorinated water, it won’t be able to absorb as much of the oxidised metals. Shampoo and condition your hair straight after every swim to remove chlorine. Provoke Touch of Silver Brightening Shampoo (R120.00) and Conditioner (R120.00) contains violet pigment to actively neutralise brassy, yellow tones and treat colour fading and dullness for instant, visible results. A weekly or bi-weekly hair mask is a great way to replenish the moisture that chlorine strips from the hair (and remember, hydrated, healthy hair is less susceptible to damage). Try Marc Anthony Complete Color Care Nourishing Hair Mask (R189.95). This hair mask nourishes hair and reduces colour fade, locking in nutrients and protecting against environmental damage. Flaky scalp A flaky scalp is very common in summer. The skin on our scalps is delicate, and when exposed to the sun it can easily burn or become dry, and in both cases, it usually leads to flakiness. A flaky scalp can become itchy and sensitive and all-round uncomfortable. Keep your scalp healthy this summer by covering it up with a hat or scarf as much as possible. A weekly scalp scrub removes dead skin cells, bacteria and excess oils to prevent flakes. Try Umberto GianniniScalp Scrub Exfoliating Anti-Dandruff Treatment (R189.95). It’s packed with natural exfoliants from fruit enzymes and micro grains of natural walnut shell to keep your scalp healthy and flake-free. You might also want to apply a scalp mask from time to time as an added treat. Umberto Giannini Banana Butter Nourishing Superfood Scalp + Hair Oil (R189.95) is packed with nature’s powerful oils. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula helps maintain a healthy scalp and combat dryness. For a scalp treatment that also works to nourish and moisturise hair, try Cantu’s Shea Butter Tea Tree & Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil (R180.00) which not only helps support hair growth but also increases moisture, or Cantu’s Deep Nourishing Hair & Scalp Masque (R59.95) which helps combat dryness and flakiness. Itchy beard If you have a beard, you’ll know that itchiness can be a major problem in summer. Beards are known to attract and hold bacteria, which is why a daily beard grooming regime is essential. Because you sweat more in summer, your beard can harbour more bacteria. The skin beneath the beard can become dry and sensitive, which in turn can cause itchiness. Cleanse your skin and beard thoroughly twice a

December 8, 2021

Surviving year-end academic burnout

Have you ever woken up in the morning and felt less motivated to get going? Maybe even irritable and just plain exhausted, or even frustrated for no reason? You may very well be experiencing Academic Burnout. Academic Burnout is something that affects most learners, especially when you are putting in those extra hours to complete that every growing mountain of assignments and homework throughout the school year, and that prolonged state of stress. It is experienced through an increase in negative emotions, physical and mental reactions due to prolonged studding which can also results in exhaustion, frustration, a lack of motivation and reduced ability in school. It is often caused by the accumulation of weeks of hard studying of the same material and back-to-back classes. Academic Burnout, however, is not to be confused with a student’s occasional feelings of frustration and fatigue from putting in hours of studying for and upcoming exam or pulling and all-nighter to catch up on missed work. Academic burnout is far more serious than this. Academic Burnout can severely reduce your productivity, reduces all your energy which leaves you feeling hopeless, helpless, and resentful towards your educators, peers, and parents. These negative consequences from burnout often spills over into other areas of your life, including our personal and social life. Therefore, it is so important to understand what exactly academic burnout is and how to survive it. Constant exhaustion, no matter how much sleep you get; disrupted sleep patterns or insomnia; a serve lack in motivation to either attend classes or complete homework assignments; loss of confidence in your academic abilities, frequently ill or somatic pians are just a few of the common symptoms to look out for that are associated with academic burnout. But it’s not all doom and gloom. “There are ways to help prevent and manage Academic Burnout before it becomes too severe. The first step to treating Academic Burnout is to acknowledge it and understand that a change does need to be made to how you are current way of tackling school tasks and activities,” says Jessica Hart from Wingu Academy’s Wellness Hub. Here are a few changes you can introduce: Make time for the things you enjoy: Its important to remember that there is more to life then school and work. Use your weekends to spend time with friends and family, and to reconnect with the things that make you happy. Up the exercise: Finding the motivation to get up and exercise can be tough. But its always important to remember that a healthy body equals a healthy mind – the two go hand in hand. Try being active at least three times a week and remember to stay hydrated and eat health. Welcome that fresh air: Spending time outside in the fresh air and sunshine, will not only help your body produce that much needed vitamin D, but it will help reduce levels of stress and anxiety, helping you feel more relaxed, improve mental focus and concentration. Set reasonable goals for yourself: Use a calendar or planner and organise what needs to be done in a way that allows you time to rest in between tasks. Trying to get a months’ worth of work done in one week is not going to benefit your grades or mental well-being. Set reasonable goals and stick to them. Wingu Academy’s Wellness Hub offers guidance to all learners and parents on academic, well-being and mental health support. As an online home school we can offer education in a more relaxed environment in the safety of your home. Enrolments are still open for January 2022 at Wingu Acadamy. Book a FREE consultation here: https://wingu-academy.com/book-now/ or visit https://wingu-academy.com/ for more information.

December 8, 2021

Nurturing in Education

Parents have children because they want to nurture. Teachers teach because they want to nurture. People who work at a school, want to nurture. Nurturing begins with the basics. Environmental provisions like shelter, sanitation, food and medical care should go without saying – mandatory rather than ‘nurturing’, and there are many people who work tirelessly to reach these goals. Education in particular is the perfect opportunity to build on those basic human needs and also address the more emotional aspects of well-being. It is a place that our children spend a significant amount of time and academic learning is made possible by not only addressing intellect but social-emotional development too. Consider your child’s day. Who do they encounter? Not just their teacher for sure. There may be a security guard or someone screening for entry, a secretary and perhaps a gardener as they make their way to a gathering of friends with a dedicated teacher and a principle holding everyone together. Does the person ensuring your child’s safety receive a friendly greeting? The screener a polite acknowledgement? How about that hero who keeps the school up and running behind the scenes and fields endless phone calls a day? And the ground staff beautifying our places of learning? Here I would like to suggest that an atmosphere of nurturing is expected between a teacher and the children, but that teachers are not the only contributors to your child’s care at school. As such, everyone at the school deserves as much respect and understanding of the role they play in the lives of our youngsters. For our children to mature in their own way, they should also be taught the value of all relationships around them and be encouraged to foster them. Positive relationships are central to both learning and well-being. Connections do not exist in a void and that means that parents shoulder some responsibility towards fostering a supportive environment around their children. At the heart of any nurturing is communication. What is needed, what is offered, what is / isn’t effective, what to change and how to get there together. Nurturing requires a massive amount of patience and it’s not unusual to find parents only too happy to deliver their children to school- and on the flip side for teachers to be only too delighted at the end of the school day. Teachers love holidays and parents love the first day back and so it goes. Not because parents or teachers dislike the children, but simply because nurturing is exhausting. That is why it takes a village. How does a school create a nurturing environment? There are many studies and articles exploring what does or doesn’t make for a nurturing environment, but at its core the researchers all agree that nurturing is essential to developing emotionally robust, academically stimulated and morally sound kids. At school, teachers need to foster this growth in countless learners and that is where parenting is critical to supporting a nurturing state in their child’s education. It can’t always be so, but where possible, parents select particular schools because they reflect the values of a family. Because they are considered safe and the staff trustworthy. Because a parent is satisfied with the learning opportunities and experiences provided. Similarly, a school needs to live up to the expectations of the parents who have entrusted their treasures into the care of the establishment, encouraging social-emotional well-being, positive relationships and academic development. An illustration of a familiar example at school: There may be a particular concern, either at home or school, both parties (parent and teacher) may be defensive however both have the child’s best interests at heart. Children, teachers and parents are fallible human beings and mistakes will be made and disagreements will be had. If a relationship has been fostered between caregivers and trust has been earned, intentions are transparent and more attention can be given to the situation at hand and in a nurturing way, the concerns can be addressed. Similarly, the child has been shown a healthy, cooperative approach to problem solving- even if parties disagree, as long as it is done respectfully and with the child’s well-being in mind. Generally speaking, academics agree that the process of nurturing children both at home and at school, consists of numerous principles: Children’s learning is understood developmentally, in other words realistic attainable goals for the individual and different children have different learning styles. A safe and consistent place that is kind, tolerant and inquisitive is necessary for learning. Well-being of the child is paramount, and self-esteem should be a priority. Communication is vital and everything possible should happen to encourage reciprocal conversations between parents, staff and children. All behaviour is communication and all parties, while instilling school and home values, should intentionally consider the reasons that may cause a particular behaviour. Any transition in a child’s life is tough and often involves relationships changing too. Support and sensitivity ensure a safe, stimulating environment. In discussing what makes for a nurturing environment, concern is primarily placed on what is best for the child, without considering that nurturing people need as much care in order to be able to pass it on. Salaries are not the nurturing I am referring to. Everyone needs respect, validation, encouragement, and support. To create a nurturing environment in education, it holds true that nurturing should be a priority all round, from each relationship, communication, and interaction, be it teacher to child, child to child or any staff members to each other. Communication and respect are key to nurturing our children to reach their potentials as individuals, while learning to nurture in return. Written by: Dana Altini (Speech-Language Therapist) – Glenoaks Remedial and Special Needs School

December 8, 2021

Hat trick for Boston as it launches Boston Online High School to extend academic offering

As a pioneer in private higher education specialising in online and distance learning over the past 30 years, Boston City Campus is extending its educational expertise to launch Boston Online High School. While there are many British curricula available in South Africa, only registered Cambridge Associate schools like Boston Online High ensures that learners are studying the correct syllabus and have access to the type of questions and formats expected in exams. Focussing on empowering secondary school learners both locally and globally, Boston Online High School has chosen the Cambridge curriculum as the gold standard for high school learners. “Specialising in skills of critical thinking, creativity and problem solving, learners both locally and worldwide will be exposed to expert educators providing the best practices of teaching and learning in the context of a global curriculum,” says Boston Online High School (BOHS) CEO, Eli Katz. Renowned globally, the Cambridge qualifications are recognised by over 1 400 universities worldwide, including all UK universities, 600 US universities (including Ivy League universities) and other top student destinations including Canada, Australia, Singapore, South Africa, Germany and the Netherlands. Classes for the academic school year are set to commence on 15 February 2022. Increasing access to top education Through Boston’s Invest in SA subsidy programme, the online school is making access as broad as possible, and addressing the country’s systemic education challenges by ensuring that the fees remain affordable. “As a result, our monthly fees of R2 500 for all levels include all textbooks and workbooks”. says Katz. Offering As a registered Associate of Cambridge International Education, BOHS provides the opportunity of two Cambridge streams: The Cambridge International Certificate of Education (ICE) for learners turning 14 in the first year of registration and who have achieved either a Grade 7 or 8. And the Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) Diploma for learners turning 16 in the first registration year and who have achieved either a Grade 9 or 10 or the ICE. The AICE Diploma offers the coveted Cambridge International AS (Advanced Supplementary) and A (Advanced) Level Qualifications. Both ICE and AICE require two years of learning each. “Being a registered Cambridge Associate brings huge advantages to our students. BOHS educators continually work with the academic material, assessments and assessment methodologies supplied to registered Cambridge associates only. This means we have access to the Cambridge curriculum statements which ensure that the teaching and learning is directed towards the guidelines specified by Cambridge. These guidelines also direct the “how” of the assessment methodology for each topic, thereby ensuring that Boston students will be well prepared for their exams. It is therefore critical for students to ensure that they are studying with an accredited tuition provider!” says Katz. BOHS facilitates social interaction through the many extra curricula activities such as digital music production, journalism club, and even an online chess tournament. Future ready graduates The AICE diploma provides seamless entry to higher education and/or the workplace. Learners will have access to coaching on subject choices with guidance on their career and university pathway. As a result, candidates who have completed Cambridge AICE will experience a smooth transition to post-school studies, academically, technologically and socially. Monitoring and guidance Expert mentors and tutors are on standby to ensure personal attention to guide and assist each learner. Students also have the advantage to go at their own pace, with diagnostic technology pinpointing what a learner knows and where there are gaps (versus getting lost in the classroom because of feeling uncomfortable to ask questions). Student progress is also monitored through a range of formal and informal assessments, facilitating detailed feedback to learners and parents, enabling relevant academic intervention throughout the learning process. “We aim to develop skills and future readiness through a holistic curriculum of academic excellence, offering learners the opportunity to enjoy a high school online environment while preparing them for a successful and fulling future”, says Katz .

December 8, 2021

Boston Online Home Education to extend its academic support and services

Boston Online Home Education, a registered Cambridge International Associate, is your home education partner. We create credible online pathways for parents/guardians of home educated learners toward the attainment of school-leaving alternatives that are internationally recognised for entry into leading local and global universities. As a pioneer in private higher education specialising in online and distance learning over the past 30 years, the Boston group realises the challenges faced by parents who select to home school their children. As a result Boston is extending its educational expertise to support parents and learners via Boston Online Home Education. Our mission is to create new opportunities for home education parents and learners to choose an aspirational online learning experience by offering support to the Cambridge International single subject, i.e. International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and Advanced Supplementary (AS) Levels, or group awards, i.e. International Certificate of Education (ICE) and Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE). The Cambridge International Certificate of Education (ICE) is for learners turning 14 in the first year of registration and who have achieved either a Grade 8. And the Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) stream is for learners turning 16 in the first registration year and who have achieved either a Grade 9 or 10 or the ICE. Learners also have the option to register for Cambridge examinations in respect of individual Cambridge subjects to supplement their existing studies especially for those learners who wish to enter into high stakes faculties such as medicine or engineering after school. Parents of a learner without a grade 9 are required to register their child as a home-school learner with the Provincial Department of Education in the province in which they reside. “Being a registered Cambridge Associate brings huge advantages to parents and their children. The educators at Boston continually work with the academic and assessment guidelines, which are only made available by Cambridge to registered Cambridge associates and Cambridge schools. This means we have access to the Cambridge curriculum statements which ensure that the support is directed towards the guidelines specified by Cambridge. These guidelines also direct the “how” of the assessment methodology for each topic, thereby ensuring that learners will be well prepared for their exams. It is therefore critical for parents to ensure that they are getting support from a credible source such as a registered Cambridge Associate” says Katz. Amongst the challenges faced by parents is ensuring that their children have access to quality content and assessments whilst being able to monitor this progress. As a result Boston have developed a comprehensive offering of recorded lessons, summaries, e-books and assessments with triggers being sent to the parent so that the parent is able to monitor the progress of the child throughout the learning journey and track performance. The parent has a specific log in feature to participate in the learning journey. Forums and discussion groups between peers and educators are also integral support mechanisms with access to experience educators to solve problems is fundamental. Through strategically designed learning material, learners have the benefit of honing higher order skills of comprehension, understanding and application. Expert tutors are on standby to ensure personal attention to guide and assist each learner. Learners also have the advantage to study at their own pace, whilst the use of online technology assists with diagnostics pinpointing what a learner knows and where there are gaps as opposed to getting lost in the classroom because a learner might feel uncomfortable to ask question. Learners also have access to teachers who provide personal guidance and support. Learner progress is also monitored through a range of formal and informal assessments, facilitating detailed feedback to parents and learners, enabling relevant academic intervention throughout the learning process. ”We are not a private or independent school, as we do not enrol learners in any grades or have physical school grounds. We also do not set any curricula, exit exams or issue awards – this is done solely by Cambridge International, and you need to register for this separately. We can however assist you by facilitating this separate registration process”. “We do not replace your legal responsibilities and duties as a parent or guardian of the home education learner. Our focus is about providing support to parents and learners in the home school journey”. Boston encourages social interaction through multiple opportunities to work and interact online in groups with other learners. In this way, learners are able to enjoy a local and global social infrastructure. Boston enhances this further through the many extra curricula activities such as digital music production, journalism club, public speaking and even an online chess tournament. “We aim to assist parents so that their children develop skills and future readiness through a holistic support program of academic excellence, offering learners the opportunity to enjoy an alternative to high school while preparing them for a successful and fulling future”.

December 8, 2021

Chicco’s tactile range of first toys from 3 months old – Baby Senses

Chicco specialises in the creation of toys that will not only entertain and fascinate youngsters, but also provide some form of cognitive and educational skills along the way to enhance brain development from as young as three months old. With children being inherently curious from the day they are born, they actively seek out the brightest colours and most tactile of items to engage their every sense. This is why Baby Senses toys are perfect for those first few months. Designed to make good use of the primary colours, red, blue, yellow and green, Chicco Baby Senses incorporates toys that start as simply as doodoo cloths and grow with your child to include teethers, bath toys, building toys and eventually electronic toys that include lights, sounds and music. Baby Senses highlights: Baby Senses Swimming Penguin, Frog and Whale Three mechanical bath time friends that swim the length of the bath whilst your little one has lots of giggles. Keep them entertained while they get clean. Suitable from three months and up. Baby Senses Giraffe Rattle A soft giraffe rattle to encourage the first explorations of your child’s senses. Soft plastic parts are ideal for teething. Contrasting fabrics and colours to enhance sense of touch. Stimulates child’s curiosity, vision and motor skills with easy to grasp and play with and strong contrasting colours. Great from three months and up Baby Senses Elliot Camping Lover Helps little ones discover the joy of exploring the world around them. Lowering and lifting the lamp turns its light on, which is accompanied by melodies, while pressing the musical note button turns both the light and melodies on. A rotating compass helps them to learn directions and find their way around their environment. Suitable for children aged 6 months and up. Find Chicco Baby Senses at a variety of stores. Full range available at Takealot, Loot and www.shopchicco.co.za

December 7, 2021

Vaccinations proving to be the best defence

As the fourth wave of Covid spreads, South Africa is seeing a considerable increase in positive cases. Just as the Delta variant became part of our daily vocabulary, the Omicron or BI.I.529 strain has too. Omicron has more than 30 mutations (double those carried by Delta) that may have an impact on how it behaves. This includes how easily it spreads and the severity of the illness it causes. The Omicron variant was found in 74% of the 249 Covid-19 samples that were gene-sequenced in November in SA. It appears with more than double the mutations carried by Delta, Omicron is virulent enough to take over from Delta. Current international data shows that there are far more positive cases, meaning that Omicron appears to be highly transmissible. However, although more people are testing positive, they are presenting with mild symptoms with fewer hospital admissions. Medical professionals believe this is a direct result of the immunity acquired through vaccinations. The first wave of Covid-19 took the world by surprise but globally everyone is better prepared for this new wave. This includes a sustained effort to vaccinate as many people as possible. What the World Health Organization (WHO), the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) and most people involved in the healthcare sector agree on unanimously, is that the best form of protection from serious disease is vaccination. Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer, Bonitas Medical Fund says, “We have been proactive in urging our members and the public to be vaccinated. Our statistics show that, of our members over 60, there are 90% fewer admissions to hospital after full vaccination and 56% fewer after one vaccination. Research across the public healthcare environment has shown the same results. With this information freely available it is disturbing that only 16 944 413 people living in SA have been vaccinated. This is only 35.5% of adults and 23.7% of the total population. ‘The cost of hospital admissions too, especially ICU, are very high. Our figures show that up to November 22, the Bonitas Covid-19 costs totalled R1.75 billion. 80% of this (R1 399 181 922) was hospital costs, while only 4.9% (R85 669 068) was for vaccinations. ‘The average cost of admission to ICU, per patient, was R533 969. There is no doubt that vaccinations not only save lives but also reduce the burden on the public healthcare system, as well as save the country billions in costs related to treating Covid. Vaccinations are a fraction of the cost of treating Covid.’ Both in the public and private sector, the unvaccinated are filling our hospitals. Dr Waasila Jassat, from NICD, announced at the end of November that ‘unvaccinated patients suffered more severe symptoms than vaccinated ones and were most likely to face hospitalisation if infected by the new Covid-19 variant.’ She said that 90% of patients admitted to hospital in Pretoria (one of the current hotspots) are unvaccinated. ‘Not only is there a higher incidence of hospital admissions but also that the chances of death amongst unvaccinated are considerably higher.’ Callakoppen says there is enough clinical evidence to show that the vaccination reduces the severity of Covid and he encourages everyone to be vaccinated. He urges those who have been vaccinated to encourage others to do the same. However, this doesn’t mean you can forgo following the Covid protocols: Wearing a mask; sanitising your hands, maintaining social distancing; staying in well ventilated spaces; coughing or sneezing into your elbow or a tissue. Bonitas has reported the following Covid related figures for 2021 as of 22 November. Total lives older than 18 estimated to have received at least 1 jab 66.4% Total tests performed: 441 929 Total Covid-19 hospital admissions: 20 376. (12 264 during 2021) Bonitas lives currently in hospital: 0.3% Admission rate: 25% ICU Admission Rate: 22% Total Covid deaths: 3 515 (2 292 in 2021) Total Bonitas membership vaccinated: 70% Highest number of people vaccinated is in the 35-49 age group followed by the over 60s ‘I must reiterate that our best defence against Covid-19 is to be vaccinated,’ says Callakoppen. ‘It won’t necessarily stop you from getting the coronavirus but it will reduce the severity of the disease. I contracted Covid in September but thankfully because I was fully vaccinated, my symptoms were mild which meant I was able to heal and recover at home. My experience is not unique.’ Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund answers some common questions around Omicron What is it? It’s a new, heavily mutated Covid variant known as BI.I.529. When was Omicron first detected? The earliest sample was detected on 11 November in Botswana. Is it more transmissible? Circumstantial evidence indicates it is. Within two weeks of its detection, it has outpaced Delta to become the main strain in Gauteng. Will vaccines work against it? Yes, most likely. A crucial objective remains to increase vaccination rates. Current vaccines remain critical to reducing severe disease, hospitalisation and death. Should updated vaccines be developed, they will be rolled out globally and used as guided by WHO. Will prior infection provide me with immunity? Preliminary evidence suggests there may be an increased risk of reinfection with Omicron but information is limited. More information on this will become available in the coming days and weeks. What about treatment? Currently Oxygen and Dexamethasone have been saving lives. There is however very exciting data coming from two antivirals. What about the current tests? The widely used PCR tests continue to be the global standard to detect infection including Omicron. Studies are ongoing to determine whether there is any impact on other types of tests including rapid antigen tests.

December 7, 2021

Travel Games – Entertainment on the go

School holidays have started, what do you do? You’ve planned a picnic in a park, or you’re headed to the coast? You go for a game drive or camp in the back yard, you’re going to have an adventure! You should also make sure you pack a few almost pocket-sized travel games that will keep your family entertained! Yes, the whole family, from ages 4 to 108! No matter the adventure, there will always be an opportunity for boredom the creep in. Let us show you a few games so fun and compact that you can take them on any adventure and make every second fun! Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, yes, a mouthful, but the name is how you play the game! Reveal a card and say the next word in the title. If what you say match the card you play, you rush to put your hand down first on top of the card stack. The last person to put their hand on the card stack takes all the cards! If the word you say don’t match the card you play, then continue to play. The first player to lose all their cards, wins! Yogi is a game that will have you and your family twisting and turning (and laughing, of course!) Each turn you draw a card with a simple instruction, such as putting the card on top of your head or your finger on your nose. You need to be skilful, you need to be creative, and you need balance to become the Yogi master as each turn you continue to add more cards to your balancing act! Don’t let the fishy exterior of Happy Salmon fool you!This easy-to-learn card game is packed with high-fivin’, fin-flappin’ foolishness. With mini celebrations built into the gameplay. This game is great for young and old as there’s no need to read complex cards and all players play at the same time. Players call out the action shown on their cards as fast as they can. When two players have a match, they celebrate by performing the action: the classic “High 5”, the unifying “Pound It”, the frantic “Switcheroo”, and the delightful “Happy Salmon”. Each time a player celebrates a match, they quickly discard that card. The first person to get rid of all their cards wins. Explore your wild side with Jungle Speed! Each player tries to grab the Totem first when the symbol on their card matches somebody else’s. Jungle Speed is an explosive game of dexterity and pattern matching. Jungle Speed is easy to transport in its own travel bag, for quick on-the-go games! Can you Spot It? No matter the card there is always a matching symbol. But it’s not as easy as it sounds as the position and size of the symbols varies from card to card! There are 5 ways of playing, no matter the game, you always need to be the fastest to spot the matching symbol between two cards, name it out loud and then take the card, place it or discard it depending on the rules of the mini game you’re currently playing. Kids and adults go bananas for Bananagrams, the anagram game that drives you bananas. You’ll have a bunch of fun as you make crossword grids in a race to the finish first. And with everything you need to play included in the banana pouch, its go-anywhere fun for everyone. This banana pouch holds pieces enough for 8 players! If you like letter and word games, you and the entire family will love Bananagrams. Anyone who says maths isn’t fun has never played Mobi! This is speed equations to get your mind working! Each player builds their own continuous crossword equation. When a player has one blue tile left to place, that player says “FLIP” and ALL PLAYERS pick THREE more tiles from the centre. Keep this up until the blue tiles run out. The first player to connect all their blue tile’s shouts “MÖBI” and is the winner! The game plays the same way as Bananagrams and comes in a compact blue whale pouch for added convenience! These compact games are addictive fun that you can take anywhere! Simple enough for young players, yet engaging enough for older players to enjoy, parents will find themselves still playing long after the youngsters has been tucked into bed. Make sure every second of your holiday is action packed with these awesome ‘take anywhere’ games! Find these games and more at Takealot.com, Toy Kingdom and Hamleys.

December 7, 2021

What NOT to ask Santa for this Christmas: The most abandoned toys in South Africa

Every parent knows the frustration of buying their child a toy that they’ve been nagging about for ages, only for them to abandon it within a few days. Thankfully, according to Gumtree Marketing Manager Estelle Nagel, the local online marketplace can easily spot which toys didn’t live up to the hype by analysing the listings on its site. “Parents start listing abandoned toys around 28 December. So, by the end of the first week in January, a spike in our listings tells us which toys kids weren’t as excited about over the holiday season,” says Nagel. Gumtree’s analysis of toy listings shows that these are the most commonly abandoned children’s items between 2018 and 2021: · Hatchimals These adorable animals remain a surprise until they noisily hatch from their eggs. But, unfortunately, that’s usually where the excitement begins and ends. Although Hatchimals cost anything from R800 to R1000 per toy, hatched Hatchimals are often resold for between R250 and R500. · Build-A-Bear Similar to Hatchimals, Build-A-Bear is a fun experience that allows children to make their very own soft toys and custom teddy bears. These toys range in price from R250 to R1000 depending on the accessories and toy type. “To cut costs, take your little one to assemble their stuffed bear and buy your accessories second-hand on Gumtree. You can pick up wardrobes full of shoes, sunglasses, and clothes for bears for a tenth of the price.” · Hoverboards Hoverboards were all the craze in 2018, but frustrated parents started listing their hoverboards by 25 December in 2020. “Last year, we had dozens of hoverboards listed by Boxing Day for half price,” says Nagel. “The cause is unknown, but reports of injuries and accidents might be behind the steep abandonment rates.” · LEGO LEGO is incredibly popular, but pieces invariably go missing once assembled, and the novelty wears off. “The good news is that you can often buy second-hand LEGO in bulk as incomplete sets – leaving your little ones free to use their imagination to assemble their very own LEGO world.” · Battery-powered cars Car enthusiast parents will often shell out thousands for mini Ferraris and BMWs for their kids, but they usually end up for sale soon after. “The batteries in these toys need to be replaced quite often, which usually leads to kids losing interest in these cars or simply outgrowing them.” Nagel says kids outgrow toys quickly. So, before committing to a big-ticket item, parents should shop second-hand. “You can teach kids healthy money habits by having your child sell their old toys to buy new ones. Also, make a point of donating or repairing old toys rather than throwing them out.”

December 6, 2021

HOW DOES A HIGH ENGAGEMENT LEARNING ENVIRONMENT WORK?

A high engagement learning environment enables our children to be interested and enthusiastic participants in their own learning, and also empowers them to becoming masters of their own learning experiences and academic achievement. Mark Anderson, Principal and Co-founder of Koa Academy is adamant that high engagement is not something that you leave to chance. He says, “You create a high engagement learning environment intentionally. It comes from an understanding that children learn best when they are involved and have age-appropriate accountability for their learning progress. It is also based on providing an agile and flexible environment that can cater to children’s diversity when it comes to igniting their engagement.” Educational Psychologist, Angela Hough explains that a child’s engagement is crucial to their learning. She says, “Children can possibly learn facts, but without engaging and having an experience or learning to apply the knowledge – then those facts do not have purpose or meaning. Transformative learning is about the need to create meaning from the learning experience. Therefore, I would encourage learning that involves experiences, embodiment, sharing and communicating learning. Experiential learning is the process of learning through experience. Usually, the more involved a child is in their school and class, and the more that they ‘own’ their learning, then the happier they are and the more they learn.” Learning through doing and learning through reflection Learning is not simply listening to a teacher telling you the facts. You may remember those facts for some time afterwards, but that’s just remembering. How many of us parents have long forgotten a myriad of facts or mathematical operations even though we might have remembered them well enough at the time to pass our school tests? There’s a lot we didn’t learn, because we can’t retrieve actual knowledge to answer the questions or do the sums today. Memory fades, but knowledge grows. Learning happens differently. Anderson says, “At Koa Academy, we focus on practical, applied and meaningful use of content. This is why our Grades 4 to 9 do all the content subjects through our Engage programme, which is all about giving real world context to the subject matter. We love the mastery-based approach, which means that in most of our courses, there are opportunities to loop back until a child has shown mastery. It doesn’t matter whether you get 20% or 80%, you are going to loop back and master that section. And everyone does, building confidence and teaching them the importance of reflecting on their own learning.” Through experiential and reflective learning, our children grow to understand how they learn which is essential in setting them up to be life-long learners in our fast-paced, ever-changing, technology-driven world. Discover Koa Academy here

December 6, 2021

Summer Fun – The joys of playing outdoors

Kids today are focused on electronics, some still have zoom classes, have homework on devices and some enjoy being in front of the television. Spending time off screen, being ‘unplugged’ adds definite value to children and adults alike. Encouraging children to spend more time outdoors and away from technology aids their physical well-being, and helps them improve their emotional and intellectual health, too. Beat the Heat! In summer there is nothing better than a day by the pool. The entire family gets to relax, unwind and cool down from the summer heat. Children seem to be in their element around water with laughter and fun filling the air! Now add an additional layer of fun with some funky pool inflatables! No swimming pool? No problem! You can still beat the heat with a wide variety of sprinkler toys! All you need is a small patch of grass and a garden hose, and you are ready for some serious fun! No access to a pool or no outdoor garden space? No excuse! – Bring a sense of outdoor fun come indoors with a bubble maker. Watch the little-one’s imagination takes flight as they run, jump and pop bubble all day long. Kickstart Some Fun! As children grow, they gain an ever-expanding sense of independence. The ability to operate their own vehicle and in their pretend play ‘travel’ wherever their imaginations can take them will help your child grow in confidence and nurture their independence. Plus, when you do it in style in your dinosaur ride on car or on your funky LED light up scooter then you can be confident of hours of fun filled travels! Ride in Style! Driving down the highway in a sports car or driving around their very own farm doesn’t have to be just pretend. Spark your childs’ imagination with a mini version of their favourite vehicle! Just sit back and enjoy the look of pure joy on their face as your child zips down the driveway in their own little Audi or ‘farm the yard’ as they cross the lawn in their very own tractor. Hours of outdoor fun is guaranteed! We suggest trying what works for you and your family, no one is the same and everyone enjoys something different, though each item has its’ own merits. Spending time laughing, in the sun, in the pool, running or zooming around is the perfect way to help children grow, thrive and become happier people. Find these great outdoor toys at Takealot.com

December 3, 2021

The fourth industrial revolution is here – is your child ready?

The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) is more than just a catchy buzzword. To understand this term, it is necessary to look at the origins and outcomes of the preceding industrial revolutions, as these set the foundation for the advent of the fourth industrial revolution. The first industrial revolution (1760-1840) was brought about by the invention of the steam engine. Why a “revolution”? Because this technology rapidly changed the way society organized itself – from an agrarian, artisanal society, to a more mechanized one. For example, dresses were no longer handmade by a local seamstress, but produced in a textile factory by machines. Average income and population growth soared. Rapid urbanization took place. The second industrial revolution (1870-1914) expanded on the technologies introduced during the first industrial revolution. Railroad and telegraph lines expanded, ushering in a wave of globalization. The invention of electricity and the telephone also emerged during the time. This industrial revolution finally brought the concept of standardization and the assembly line to the fore, as pioneered by the Ford motor company in 1913. The economic outcome of this was tangible. Economic life organized itself around the mass production of consumer goods. Mega-corporations emerged, which could control segments of the market. There is even an economic theory centred on this outcome – aptly called Fordism. Finally, the third industrial revolution was bought about by the invention of the semiconductor. This led to a slew of innovative technologies, most of which are well known to us by now, such as mainframe computing, personal computing and the internet. This still begs the question however, what is the fourth industrial revolution and what will its outcomes be? And most importantly, how can you ensure your child’s readiness to face these rapid changes? Similar to preceding industrial revolutions, the fourth industrial revolution is being brought about by new technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, nanotechnology, cloud computing, quantum computing, machine learning, additive manufacturing, genetic modification and bioscience technologies, which are shaping the way we organize our societies. Just as artisanal dressmakers had to adapt to a changing society during the 1760s, so too will our children have to adapt to the changes arising from the current industrial revolution. The fourth industrial revolution will eliminate some jobs, but also create new ones in their stead. Children currently in grade R might someday fulfil a role that doesn’t even exist on paper yet. Other jobs will not necessarily be eliminated, but it will require people to adapt and to learn how to leverage these new technologies in their existing roles. One sector of society that has been relatively slow to adapt to changes being bought about by the fourth industrial revolution, is the education sector. The traditional education system is currently based on training factory workers, who had to focus on repetitive tasks for long hours. It is therefore not designed to foster critical and creative thinking, but rather to encourage compliance and regurgitation of facts. In an increasingly automated world, jobs which require repetition and regurgitation are rapidly being eliminated by machines and software. So which skills will be relevant in the coming fourth industrial revolution? And how can we ensure that our children will graduate from school with the necessary skills to thrive in this environment? According to a report by the World Economic Forum, titled “The Future of Jobs”, the skills that will be most in demand during the fourth industrial revolution are: Complex problem solving Critical thinking Creativity Managing people Coordinating with others Emotional intelligence Judgement and decision making Service orientation Negotiation Cognitive flexibility The industries tied to the defining 4IR technologies (robotics, artificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, nanotechnology, cloud computing, quantum computing, machine learning, additive manufacturing, genetic modification) will birth new areas of work. For example, traditional methods of manufacturing will increasingly be replaced with additive manufacturing technologies (3D printing), as the technology improves. Think 3D printing is just for hobbyists? Think again. Professor Mashudu Tshifularo from the University of Pretoria conducted a pioneering surgery in 2019, transplanting 3D printed middle-ear bones in a patient. In another example, NASA’s “Made in Space” 3D printer is being used by members of the International Space Station to print tools, reducing the number of objects that have to be stored onboard. It is also creating opportunities for recycling and re-use of materials – which in turn creates new opportunities to launch longer manned space missions to planets such as Mars. In conclusion, teaching our students the basis of these defining 4IR skills from a young age is vital. Ensure that your child’s educational provider incorporates elements such as coding, robotics, 3D printing and software development into their offering. Furthermore, jobs which require creative and critical thinking, as well as empathy and emotion – innate human qualities – are less likely to be replaced by an automated system. Learning should be about more than just what your child learns, but about how they learn it. Are they just repeating the solution presented to them by someone else, or being encouraged to discover a new solution of their own? Are they encouraged to solve problems creatively and taught to think analytically and independently? Fostering these skills in students will ensure that they are resilient and able to adapt to changing career and societal circumstances with ease. At Wingu Academy we pride ourselves on doing education differently. Students are introduced to subjects such as coding, robotics, app development and game development from an early age. Teaching pedagogies are based on a blended learning approach, which blends synchronous and asynchronous learning to allow and encourage independent study. Students are engaged with their work through interactive quizzes and simulations, as well as live class presentations by subject experts. The implementation of the application focused British International Curriculum further ensures that students develop critical thinking and problem solving skills. Enrolments for 2022 are still open. Visit our website at www.wingu-academy.com and book a FREE consultation now at: https://wingu-academy.com/book-now/

December 3, 2021

Leading Local, Going Global… Why Syllabis Education is the best solution for your child

Home-schooling is a progressive movement around the world, in which learners are educated at home instead of in traditional public or private schools where methods have hardly changed in over a century. To give you an idea; in only 2020 was the ‘Chalkboard’ replaced by a ‘Smartboard’ in a few privileged schools only 2021– the ‘Classroom Teacher’ is replaced by an ‘Online Teacher’ using the same old methods which are of little consequence to today’s learners. In 2022 Syllabis Learning is now leading the way to change this. Researchers worldwide, forecast that home-schooling will balloon over the next decade as families discover that there are vastly better alternatives to public or private schooling such as homeschooling and more importantly as far as we are concerned, independent learning. The core idea of home-schooling/ independent learning is the idea that children need to learn at the speed, and in the style, most appropriate for them. Families have voiced many reasons for moving away from traditional schooling which has now all been super-ceded by the COVID worldwide pandemic. This unfortunately may be with us for quite some time. At Syllabis Education We have some amazing developments that we would love to share with you, our valued parents, learners, and potential learners. We have just launched our new WEBSITE and we will be making our unique and super-enhanced products and breakthrough tools available to our home school families, worldwide as of 2022. How our new global distance school works: We offer a 3-tiered product approach to distance school, with each offering customizable to your unique needs. You are free to upgrade or downgrade at your discretion, which means you are not locked into any one package. Introducing the Syllabis Education Big 3: The Elephant Strong and peaceful with a great memory, a good concentrator, and a force to be reckoned with – This package includes our basic offering, with great value-added products and features. Fantastic for those starting on this journey. The Buffalo Strong and Feisty, always looking for an edge, the great rememberer, whether alone or in a herd, this package includes our enhanced offering, and many great value-added services, products, and features. By far the best value for money in comparison to our competitors. Enhanced offering includes Orientation week, extended progress reporting, call-in help with curriculum planning, study skills course, access to iClass online lessons (2 hours per week), and formal academic feedback to parents. The Lion On the Hunt, Protective, Happy in groups or alone, the King of the Jungle. This package includes all the bells and whistles (and a few loud ROARS). By far Clearly the best value for money in comparison to our competitors. Enhanced offering includes orientation week, extended progress reporting, call-in help with curriculum planning, study skills course, iWellness, access to iClass (4 hours per week), and formal academic feedback to parents. Our unique curriculum enhancements: PRE-REGISTRATION ASSESSMENTS AND ANALYSIS Free Educational Needs Analysis Online Assessments Online Examination Concession Assessments Educational Analysis Financial Needs Analysis SPECTACULAR CURRICULUM COMPONENTS AND BREAKTHROUGH TOOLS School-on-a-Tablet – (just press the on-button and get started) or download to your own device Syllabis Learner Portal – Learner’s access to our world of learning and prosperity Syllabis E-Workbooks – Tailored to the needs of the student learning at home Syllabis Printed Workbooks Grade R – 3 – Delivered to your home or nearest Postnet (South Africa only) Syllabis Online Study Guides – Provides the learner with month-to-month guidance on how to approach each subject Orientation Pack – Online orientation pack for our Elephant package Orientation Week – Students that enroll with Syllabis Buffalo or Lion packages can participate in various levels of orientation Progress Reporting – Keeps the Parent and Syllabis up to date with the learner’s progress which is optional Extended Progress Reporting – Links the learners up with a tutor who will guide them through a problem area at affordable rates (South Africa only) Online Help – Professional help with Curriculum Planning Call-in Help – Professional help with Curriculum Planning Syllabis iCLASS – Online Group Class with Educators – for our Buffalo and Lion package only Syllabis iWizard – Extra resource for when a learner need additional help Syllabis iWellness – Additional Children’s Wellness and Life Skills Programme Syllabis iMaster English – Online English Literature Support for Grade 10 – 12 (South Africa only) Syllabis iDrive – Driving Lessons offered in the Johannesburg area only until further notice (South Africa only) Formal Academic Feedback to Parents – Online Graphing Calculators – Syllabis Learning 8 Pillars – Comprehensive add-on curriculum for Grade R – 12 Tutoring – In-home or online tutor placements at affordable rates, at the click of a button For more information on our amazing and progressive offering or to register for 2022 contact us today.

December 3, 2021

Give them the best night’s sleep with the Chicco First Dreams range of nursery toys and accessories

Welcome to the most magical nursery atmosphere ever when you introduce any of the Chicco First Dreams toys and accessories into your little one’s life. Designed in a sleep laboratory to create the ultimate in successful sleeping aids, these high-tech items bring not just the cutest items into their bedroom, but do so with smart elements such as perfectly curated night light and sleep-appropriate music too. Mobiles & Projectors First Dreams Rainbow Sky – a crib arch in a rainbow with hanging toys with a centre star that projects soft light in the nursery while playing gentle classical or new age music. First Dreams Next2Dreams Crib Lights – a crib light that fits the side of any type of cot, this projector light shines stars on the roof of the nursery whilst playing classical or new age music. First Dreams Next2Dreams Crib Lights – a crib light that fits the side of any type of cot, this projector light shines stars on the roof of the nursery whilst playing classical or new age music. Night Lights First Dreams Rainbow Bear – a cute baby bear that projects a colourful rainbow of soft light into the nursery whilst playing classical and new age music First Dreams Dreamlight – shaped like a little bear, this small but effective light projects a sift diffused glow into the nursery whilst playing classical and new age music Accessories First Dreams My First Nest – a snuggle nest for baby to hug them from newborn upwards that includes a firm cushioning, outer rim toys, night light and classical and new age music. Use lying down when newborn, for tummy time as baby grows and as a sitting aid for when baby is a few months old All First Dreams items are available in pastels blue or pink and for sale at: Babies R Us, Takealot, Loot, The Kid Zone, Babanino, www.chicco.co.za, select items in Baby City.

December 2, 2021

Pump with confidence

Did you know that 85% of women who breast feed also make use of a breast pump? This is a growing statistic as more women are breast feeding for longer and needing to express breast milk for when they return to work. Other reasons for mothers pumping are their baby being born early or having difficulties with direct feeding and requiring keeping up their milk supply. Having a good quality double electric breast pump can make all the difference, to be able to pump with confidence is so important. No-one wants to be stuck to their breast pump for hours only to get a few drops of milk or to have the pump hurt them. So how do you spot a good quality breast pump? Firstly, look for a closed system. This is a pump that prevents the movement of milk into the tubing and motor of your pump. Ameda is the only true closed system breast pump in South Africa as it has FDA approval for not only milk but also bacteria and viruses . The alternative is to use a pump that is open system, and you could get mould growing in your pump! GROSS! Secondly, get a hospital grade breast pump! You are now able to get a personal use breast pump that is strong, efficient, and quiet. Hospital grade breast pumps can empty the breasts more quickly and the motor is more reliable. With the Mya Joy Double Electric Hospital Grade breast pump you are able to pump many times in a day and your pump motor will remain strong. The Mya Joy also has a 2-year warranty which goes to show how much confidence Ameda has in the Mya Joy. How do you know that the pump will be comfortable? Women have different sized breast and nipples, and they are all perfect. This just means that you need to make sure that your breast pump flange, the thingy that touches your breast, is the correct fit. Make sure that the brand of pump that you chose, has a variety of flange sizes so that you know you will be able to find your best fit and pump like a princess. Ameda has 7 different flange sizes ranging from 21mm up to 36mm. Our standard flange size is 25mm. If you need help with working out what is your best flange size is, you are welcome to email us, and we will help you make sure you get the best fit. Use this link to send us an email The next step is to use your pump correctly. Learn how to use the settings of your pump. This will help you to find your sweet spot, which is not always the fastest and the strongest settings. In fact, it can be very different for each mother. When you buy a pump from My Breastpump we help you with additional information about storing your milk, how to use your pump effectively, how to use heat and massage to increase your milk output and even when the best time to pump is. The Mya Joy has a stimulation and expression phase. The Mya Joy will start on the stimulation phase. Here you have a chose of 6 different settings. You need to find the most comfortable setting and allow the stimulation to start your milk flowing. You should start to see some milk dripping from your nipple when this happens, press the M button to move you over to the Expression mode. The pump will automatically switch you over after 2 minutes. Here again you need to find the most comfortable setting of the 12 suction levels. You will notice that the stimulation mode has fast sucks while the expression mode has longer sucks. The change in setting is to allow your pup to mimic how a baby would suckle at your breast. . You will see that you milk flow starts to slow down after some time. This is when you press the M button to switch you back to the stimulation mode, Here the pump will remember tyour last setting and ghelp you with another let down. Once this happends you press the M button and move back to the expression mode. You can have about 4 different letdon in one pumping session. This should take you around 10 to 20 minutes. So, what do you need for the ideal pumping station? Firstly, the best breast pump and then to be a bit organised. Wash your hands and sterilise your pump parts. With the Ameda’s closed system you only need to wash and sterilise 4 parts. Yes only 4, which makes it super easy to use. You can use the CleanEase, if you need a portable microwaving solution. Use a comfortable chair with support for your back. Have your pump close by and have a drink or snack ready. Think of your baby, watch a cute video or smell a baby blanket. This helps to get your mind focused on baby and making milk. You can use a warm, hot water bottle, bean bag or even a baby bottle with warm water to start messaging your breasts. This helps with your first let down. Place your flanges onto your breast making sure that the nipple is in the middle of the flange and that it does not rub against the sides. Use the pump by changing the settings. When you are done you can even use your hands to squeeze out the last few drops or breast milk. This is called hands on pumping and is great at getting out all the lekker fatty milk at the end of a pump. If you battle with your milk supply, try the baby sock hack. It is so simple but works like a charm. Before you start pumping place a baby sock over your bottle so that you can’t see how much milk you have pumped. This helps you to stop focusing on the output and to

December 2, 2021

WHY HIGH ENGAGEMENT IS IMPORTANT FOR YOUR CHILD’S EDUCATION

As parents, we want our children to love their school experiences. It sets off a host of anxieties, and sometimes sustained stress, when our child is despondent, frustrated, or angry because they are struggling with academics or battling to get along socially at school. We understand innately that not enjoying school much also means not learning much. This is confirmed by Educational Psychologist, Angela Hough who notes that both disengagement in the classroom and in school social relationships impacts a child’s ability to learn. She says, “Usually, the more involved a child is in their school and class, and the more that they ‘own’ their learning, the happier they are and the more they learn. Peer relationships and teacher-learner relationships are also vital for a child’s sense of self-worth, belonging and wellbeing. Generally, the more a child feels valued for who they are, and the more they feel included, the happier they are, and the more they are able to contribute and experience.” That involvement, ownership and accountability for learning, sense of belonging and social acceptance are the characteristics of a high engagement learning environment. Our kids can all be involved and enthusiastic in their learning and their school community given a high-engagement context. As parents who were traditionally schooled, we tend to think we need to choose the same or the opposite of what we went through, depending on whether we loved or hated our schooling experience. But our kids are going to school in the 4th Industrial Revolution (4iR) and it’s clear we need to be thinking more expansively and differently about their options before we make school choices. Koa Academy Principal, Mark Anderson worked as an award-winning teacher in brick-and-mortar schools before co-founding this intentional high engagement online school. He says, “Engagement does not happen automatically in any one specific type of school. There are some physical schools which do a great job of having a highly engaging learning environment, while others don’t. The same is true for online schools, home-schools, and every other type of school in between. Every child is also unique in how they go about engaging with others and their learning. What might be a great fit for one person might just not work as well for another. What this means for parents, is that it when it comes to their school choices, they need to not only evaluate the school, its reputation and its values; but do so in the context of what suits their child best.” This means that all parents should be on the lookout for schooling options that truly intend to offer and maintain high engagement for a diversity of learners, no matter whether those schools are physical or online. Discover Koa Academy here

December 1, 2021

Technology is fast-moving, is your child protected?

In the season of giving, our children can’t wait to open their beautifully wrapped Christmas presents. They look at every shape under the tree and play guessing games about the contents. When we wrap our children’s gifts, it takes careful planning. Buying a remote-controlled car? We include the batteries. Got them the roller-skates? We make sure to add the elbow and knee guards. Wrapping the bicycle? We definitely include the safety gear, and especially the helmet. If this is their first bicycle, we may even add the training wheels to ensure that their first experience is good. This year, as the years before, many of our children will be unwrapping a smartphone or a tablet. We want them to participate in and experience the digital world, but how will we adequately prepare them for this new online journey? In the same way we would’ve done if we had to teach them to ride their new bicycle? Comparing our own learning to ride a bike with teaching our children to be safer online is difficult. Growing up, our parents taught us what to look out for when we first got onto our bikes. Their parents taught them. Generations of advice being passed down. As parents though, we did not grow up in the same online world that our children need to navigate. Our parents may not have even known about smartphones when we were born. We need to consider the online road they are traveling on, the type of device they are driving, how your child is equipped to deal with potential danger, and the type of protection we need to offer. The online road they’re traveling on Different roads have different rules. Our children know that, when they ride their bicycle in the park, they have to look out for pedestrians and perhaps some smaller children crossing their path unexpectedly. In contrast, when they’re riding their bike to school, they have to be more aware of traffic and follow all the road signs, be aware of traffic lights and obey the rules. They also know that not following these rules has consequences and that they can get badly hurt. When they’re traveling on their digital road, they have to understand the “look left, look right, look left again” basics, but they also have to know that different apps have different rules. When chatting in an online game’s chatroom, they should apply the same rules as a simple chat app like WhatsApp: don’t give out personal information, don’t talk to strangers. But using apps like Snapchat or Tik Tok where photos or videos are exchanged, they will be expected to follow a different rulebook. The device they are driving With their first bicycle, we would check that the training wheels are screwed on tight and that the brakes of the bike work, right? Whether they are using a child-friendly phone that was manufactured with online safety in mind, an Apple or an Android-based device (such as Samsung or Huawei), the starting point is always to ensure that the device-specific settings are set in the most protective way. This can include screen time management, some parental controls, and content filters. Our children are in the driving seat We spend hours teaching our children how to ride their bikes. Holding on to the bicycle at first, then only to the seat and eventually giving them the freedom to go at it alone. In cyberspace, we are going on a road trip, but sometimes we won’t be sitting next to them. Fact is, with your child in the driver’s seat of his or her phone, we have to ensure that they can go some distances on their own. Talk openly to them about what they see, how they experience their online worlds, and how to dodge the potholes on the way. Have fun online, but play it safe Keeping them safer in this world means reinventing the way we educate them about cyber safety and, even then, monitoring what they are exposed to, but in a way that also protects their privacy. As parents, we have to use the full ecosystem of protection. Education from parents and teachers and online resources from experts in cyber safety can go a long way. Making sure that the correct screen time and parental controls are applied is an essential layer and the free solutions are as good as some of the paid versions – give it a try. So when equipping them with their arm and knee guards, ensure they always wear their cyber safety helmet – FYI play it safe. FYI play it safe is not a parental control app, but rather a complementary layer of added security where parents are kept informed of potentially harmful situations like cyberbullying, talking to strangers/predators, depression, self-harm, suicide, or when they engage in adult content such as pornography, sexting or anything drug-related. Cyber-smart parenting is about watching them mountain biking on a single-track downhill at a ridiculous speed, but with the certainty that they are protected and are less likely to get hurt if they fall. It is about building better relationships with our children, where we have the information to discuss actual difficult situations they encounter, rather than hypothetical scenarios. Where our guidance actively influences the content they search for, post, and like on social media. Where we have the opportunity to guide them on who they accept as friends or which messages on chats they react to and more importantly, how they respond. Safety, whether physical, emotional, psychological, or in cyberspace isn’t expensive. It’s priceless.

December 1, 2021

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