Advice from the experts
Sinta Ebersohn

Are You Walking Away or Being Left Behind?

How do you feel about your divorce – are you ready to get on with it or are you resisting the process? Upon his return from a business trip, Sean greets Rachel with a nonchalant brush on the cheek. “We have to talk” he whispers in her ear as he pushes past her to tuck the kids into bed. While she listens to the laughter from the bedrooms, Rachel wonders whether his work will take him away from home again soon. She boils the kettle and starts to prepare his coffee, just like she has always done for the past twelve years that they have been together. “Leave the coffee. Let’s sit down.” he says. He is going away again soon, she sighs. “Rachel, I am not happy. I want a divorce.” What? It seldom happens that two people agree to get divorced at the same time, for the same reasons. What normally happens is that one spouse announces the wish to get divorced, to the surprise and devastation of the other. We go through a lengthy process of weighing our expectations, emotions and fears before making such a life-changing decision. By the time we make up our minds, we have mourned the loss of our marriage to a degree and come to terms with the reasons why the union did not last. When Sean was ready to announce his intentions to Rachel, he had a fairly clear picture of the way he wanted to go forward. Rachel, however, literally has the carpet pulled out from under her and has to deal with an overwhelming array of emotions – utter surprise, disappointment, feelings of rejection, fear, anger etc. It is little wonder that conflict ensues. Traditionally, Sean, who is eager to dissolve the marriage and get on with his life, would employ an attorney to start litigating the process of divorce. On the other hand, Rachel, might consult a counselor in an effort to figure out what went wrong and appeal to Sean to join her, in a desperate attempt to save her marriage. All the while, because they find themselves in two completely different places in their lives, they are drifting further apart and the situation becomes untenable for both of them. If they opted for a mediation process, they would be able to get together with a skilled professional and ascertain their individual needs, which are quite different at this stage, as well as the needs of their children. Getting a clear picture of what everybody wants and needs, helps to establish empathy and insight while laying a safe foundation for negotiating the specifics of a divorce settlement. If, however, it becomes apparent that one or more parties involved need support such as therapy for Rachel and/or Sean or play-therapy for the children, decisions and arrangements can be made to ensure the well-being of the whole family. In some cases, couples might even realise that they would rather make an effort to resolve their differences and reconcile, which could also be facilitated by mediation. Furthermore, if Rachel and Sean discover that they require some legal or financial input, it can be acquired as part of a collaborative process. This applies to any assistance or service relevant to a civilised separation. Read this article for more information about the Ownership and Collaborative Management of your Divorce. In order to reach an amicable and fair divorce agreement, everybody has to be satisfied that they are being heard and their interests are being protected. Where litigation is designed to argue and win the fight, mediation is designed to communicate and compromise. That is why it is of the utmost importance that both Rachel and Sean not only grasp where the other person is at in their divorce process, but also have compassion for each other’s perspective on the situation, depending on who is walking away and who is being left behind. It reminds me of that Kenny Rogers song “I’m running and she wants to walk…” If you’ve had it and want out pronto like Sean, be patient with your partner who desperately needs to make sense of what is happening first. On the other hand, if you’re devastated and wish that you could wake up from this nightmare, try to understand that your partner might be way beyond any desire to make amends.

November 4, 2021
Koa Academy

HOW YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR CHILD KEEPS THEM SAFER ONLINE


When our children were little, we bought them their first bicycle.  We bought a helmet too.  We didn’t just spend hours training them on how to ride their bike, we told them about the rules of the road, the risks of the road and how to ride safely.  We made our own family rules about when and where they could ride, supervised and unsupervised.  We balanced giving them opportunities to enjoy their freedom on their bike and mitigating the risks.  It was easy, because most of us went through exactly the same thing with our parents when they gave us our first bike. When it comes to our children’s use of social media, online gaming and the Internet, we’re understandably less assured because for most of today’s parents, we have no experience of being a child or a teen immersed in the digital world.  Our experience of the internet, social media and online gaming is rooted in our adulthood; so, we are guessing and assuming when it comes to our children’s reality.  For some parents, this makes us back-off from what we can’t know; for others, it makes us double-down with severe limits and a pervasive atmosphere of distrust and overbearing monitoring.  Both of these tactics make our children more vulnerable to the risks of their inevitable online activity. At a recent Koa Academy webinar, Mark Anderson, CEO and Principal of the high-engagement online school brought together ICT law specialist, attorney Arinda Truter and parent, Rachelle Best who is the founder of FYI Play It Safe, a non-intrusive, consensual family monitoring app. The conversation centres on how critical the parent-child relationship is to ensure that our children’s online interactions are safe and happy. Just like we were the first to teach our small children to look left, right and left again before crossing the road, we need to be the informed and authoritative voice when it comes to rules that govern our children’s forging of a lifelong digital footprint.  As parents, we cannot ignore or avoid that the digital world is as visceral as the physical world.  Like road use, there are laws and consequences if those laws are broken.  Like road use, it is an essential aspect of life with risks and advantages.  If we are to guide and protect our kids effectively, we need to know and understand the digital world as well as we know the road. Luckily for us, there are advanced tools and free access to trustworthy content that does enable parents to leapfrog the disadvantages of not having experienced a childhood in the Digital Age.  We can get up to speed and be empowered.  We can use tech innovations that support our daily mission to safely raise our children.  We can learn the global rules and country laws that govern digital spaces.  We can be agile enough to help our children become not just productive citizens in their geographical space but also positive citizens in a digital world.  At the root of all this, is the quality of our relationship with our children.  Anderson says, “Open engagement and ongoing conversations in the family are the bedrock of keeping children and teens safe online.  Know the risks, know the rules and talk about what’s happening online every day, because it is constantly changing.  Our children are growing up in a world where most people’s work will happen online in the near future.  We need to be raising children who are adept and competent at being positive digital citizens, and from education to family security, there is so much available to support parents.” Watch the Online Safety Webinar with Koa Academy, FYI play it safe and DML inc here

November 4, 2021
SAHomeschoolers

The time is ripe for home education

The past 2 years have brought about a growing interest in home education. The disruption caused by the pandemic along with health concerns and the periodic closure of schools have caused many parents to re-think the education of their children. Crisis-schooling with its flood of worksheets, WhatsApp messages with homework assignments, Zoom lessons, unmotivated learners and parents having to juggle their work responsibilities and school-at-home was exhausting and frustrating. Many parents longed for schools to re-open, but others started looking at educational alternatives. Home education offers up-to-date methods of education that support learning from home, is cost-effective, child-centred, and flexible. Due to the increased demand for alternatives to the standard school-going norm, the home education expo organizers SAHomeschoolers and KragDag created an online home education expo platform www.homeschoolexpo.africa in 2020 as an alternative to the physical expos. It showcases multiple educational options, with workshops and talks. Fortunately, it is possible to again host an in-person expo this year on 6 November in Durbanville, Cape Town. The expo will be held in conjunction with Cape Home Educators (CHE), a volunteer association that promotes home education and supports home educators in the Western Cape. The upcoming Cape Home Education Expo will give parents the opportunity to explore educational solutions and network with other families who are doing the same. Visitors can listen to well-known speakers such as Adv Andre Williams from the Pestalozzi Trust, veteran homeschool moms Linnie Luus and Wendy Young from Footprints on our land, and online providers of the CAPS and Cambridge curriculums like Brainline, Evolve and Wingu academy. Topics ranging from teaching toddlers to matric alternatives will be discussed. More and more families are exploring alternatives and they find support structures that best fit their children’s education irrespective of whether families choose online schooling, a mix-and-match approach, a textbook approach, or natural learning. Home education is about providing one’s child with an education that is flexible and easily adapts to new methods, tools, and approaches as necessary, rather than getting stuck in a one-size-that-doesn’t-fit-all approach. For more info on the upcoming Cape Town Home Education Expo and to book a ticket visit the homeschoolexpo.co.za website. We look forward to seeing you there and helping you find answers to your questions.

November 4, 2021
Wingu Academy

Wingu Academy’s Wellness Hub takes the lead in providing a safe online learning environment

Student well-being is a core focus area for Wingu Academy, especially due to the increase in mental health awareness in the online environment.  In fact, Wingu Academy takes this so seriously that they have a dedicated wellness hub, called Wingu Wellness. The vision is to collaborate with students, guardians, and parents, as well as the valued staff of the Academy, to build a safe online learning environment. “Wingu Wellness provides up to date information on mental health issues, learning barriers, coping mechanisms and stress management, to mention a few. Working alongside top names in the field, like Dr Serahni Symington, counsellor and play therapist specialist, we will be providing counselling and mediation sessions and webinars free of charge, to anyone in the Wingu Family.” says Ian Strydom, Wingu Academy’s Managing Director. Services offered by Wingu Wellness Hub Current services include:  Organising concessions for learners with learning barriers; Wellness consultations with a wellness coach or qualified counsellor;  Monthly webinars; Sensitivity training; Resolution of behaviour misconduct; Assisting students and parents with day-to-day educational needs, i.e. study assistance, identifying learning styles, etc. Diagnostic Testing facilitated by Educationist, Dr Belinda van der Westhuizen Family mediation offered through Dr Serahni Symington How does Wingu Wellness assist students? The Wingu Wellness Hub will be assisting students by offering free consultation sessions with either the Wellness Coach or a trained psychologist. This will act as a safe space for learners to talk about what is weighing on them. We also provide learners applicable content to assist them in matter that they do not feel comfortable coming forward about. We also provide external coaching in the form of play therapy for the younger learners, by referring them to Dr. Symington.  Wingu Wellness will also act as a means to further promote the many social clubs within the Academy to assist learners in still benefitting from the social aspects that are sometimes lacking in the cyber world.   How does Wingu Wellness assist parents/guardians? Assistance includes the same support as to students, but on top of that also offering family mediation through Dr Symington. “We offer comprehensive and professionally verified content to assist in matters dealing with how to cope with situations such as moving a learner from a mainstream school into an online learning environment or to things like dealing with family trauma.” says Panashe Tiffany Saungweme, Associate Director of Human Capital.  How does Wingu Wellness assist staff members? Not only do the teachers and staff have access to the Wingu Wellness Hub through the Academy’s platform, which gives them the opportunity take full advantage of the consultations, posted contented and the many services offered by Dr Symington, they also have access and can benefit from the internal wellness check-ins aimed at reminding the Wingu staff to ensure they keep in mind the importance of their own well-being. The staff benefit from life coaching through the Hub in order to thrive in their personal and professional lives.   Aiming to assist the Wingu Family with their overall well-being. “Wingu Wellness is not just an initiative to create awareness of mental barriers we may all have, but rather a platform providing a safe space to find solutions and encourage positive well-being behaviour for everyone part of the Wingu Family.” Strydom concludes.

November 3, 2021
Prima Baby

Keep little ones protected from mosquitos and bugs this summer with Chicco Anti-Mosquito Spray and Anti-Mosquito Roll On

Summer brings lots of fun, warm nights and days spent in nature – unfortunately, it also comes with insects.  Keep your little ones protected from mosquitos and bugs this summer with Chicco Anti-Mosquito Spray and Anti-Mosquito Roll On and get the gentlest, most natural solution to all-round cover. Made with naturally effective ingredients such as Eucalyptus and Citrodiora, the lotion is available in either a convenient spray and rub or a roll-on. Unlike most mosquito repellents the Chicco Anti-Mosquito range leaves a great smelling, natural fragrance, reminding you that every time you protect your baby you are doing the least possible harm to their gentle skin. Available at Baby City, The Kid Zone, Loot, Takealot and other participating retailers.

November 3, 2021
LEGO South Africa

Girls are ready to overcome gender norms but society continues to hamper creative potential

New research commissioned by the LEGO® Group reveals that girls today feel increasingly confident to engage in all types of play and creative activities, but they remain held back by society’s ingrained gender stereotypes as they grow older. The study was carried out by the Geena Davis Institute in recognition of the UN’s International Day of the Girl and to mark the launch of a new LEGO® campaign, ‘Ready for Girls’, which celebrates girls who rebuild the world through creative problem solving. The research, which surveyed nearly 7,000 parents and children aged 6-14 years old in China, Czech Republic, Japan, Poland, Russia, UK, and USA highlights the need for society to rebuild perceptions, actions, and words to support the creative empowerment of all children. It also supports many of the findings in the LEGO Play Well Study 2020, which included the feedback of South African children and their parents. Ready for Girls The research findings show that girls are ready for the world, but society isn’t quite ready to support their growth through play. Girls feel less restrained by and are less supportive of typical gender biases than boys when it comes to creative play, with 71% of South African parents believing that it’s more acceptable for girls to be ‘boyish’ than it is for boys to be ‘girlish’.  According to the Geena Davis Institute study, 82% of girls believe it’s OK for girls to play football and boys to practice ballet, compared to only 71% of boys. However, despite the progress made in girls brushing off prejudice at an early age, general attitudes surrounding play and creative careers remain unequal and restrictive, according to this research: For most creative professions, parents who answered the survey imagine a man, regardless of whether they have a son, daughter, or both. They are almost six times as likely to think of scientists and athletes as men than women (85% vs. 15%) and over eight times as likely to think of engineers as men than women (89% vs. 11%). The children surveyed in this research share these same impressions except girls are much more likely than boys to consider a wider range of professions to be for both women and men. Our insights further indicate that girls are typically encouraged into activities that are more cognitive, artistic, and related to performance compared to boys who are more likely to be pushed into physical and STEM-like activities (digital, science, building, tools). Parents from this study are almost five times as likely to encourage girls over boys to engage in dance (81% vs. 19%) and dress-up (83% vs. 17%) activities, and over three times as likely to do the same for cooking/baking (80% vs. 20%). Adversely, they are almost four times as likely to encourage boys over girls to engage in program games (80% vs. 20%) and sports (76% vs. 24%) and over twice as likely to do the same when it comes to coding toys (71% vs. 29%).  The Play Well Study 2020 highlighted that 75% of South African children only play with toys designed for their own gender, while more than half of South African children said that people make fun of them when they play with games or toys marketed for children of the opposite gender. When it comes to parents’ perceptions of gender, 84% of South African parents agree that gender differences are driven more by societal expectations than by biology, but only a little more than half allow their children to, wear, or play with things that are geared towards the opposite gender. Rebuilding the World This was launched on The International Day of The Girl (11th October), the LEGO Group is calling on parents and children to champion inclusive play. To help, they have developed a fun 10-step guide and invite parents to share photos of their child’s LEGO creations against a pre-defined AR backdrop featuring the words ‘Get the World Ready for Me’. “As a Mom of three children, I have long admired the LEGO Group and I’m heartened by its global commitment to this study to inform how we can dramatically inspire creativity in girls through play and storytelling,” said Geena Davis, Founder of the Geena Davies Institute on Gender in Media. “We also know that showing girls unique and stereotyped activities can lead to an expanded viewpoint of possibilities and opportunities.” The role of LEGO play The LEGO Group believes in the value of learning through play and that the development of 21st century skills from LEGO play are equally relevant to all children. While many parents perceive the LEGO brand as a good example of an inclusive toy brand, LEGO play is still considered more relevant to boys than girls, with 59% of parents saying they encourage their sons to build with LEGO bricks compared to 48% who say they encourage it with their daughters. This view became more pronounced when parents were asked to complete an implicit bias assessment and 76% said they would encourage LEGO play to a son while just 24% would recommend it to a daughter.  “The benefits of creative play such as building confidence, creativity and communication skills are felt by all children and yet we still experience age-old stereotypes that label activities as only being suitable for one specific gender. At the LEGO Group we know we have a role to play in putting this right, and this campaign is one of several initiatives we are putting in place to raise awareness of the issue and ensure we make LEGO play as inclusive as possible. All children should be able to reach their true creative potential,” says Julia Goldin, Chief Product and Marketing Officer, the LEGO Group. The ‘Ready for Girls’ campaign aims to help girls rebuild the story and welcome more girls to LEGO building, ensuring they aren’t losing out on the benefits of LEGO play due to societal expectations. The company will ensure any child, regardless of gender identify, feels they can build anything they like, playing in a way that

November 2, 2021
The Lily Rose Collection

Style, function, exclusivity: new luxury bag range launches online in South Africa

Born in South Africa in 2020 – Luxury Neoprene Bags. For fashionistas, workaholics, party girls, super moms, sweat addicts, baby mammas & YOU! The Lily Rose Collection was created to allow fashion-savvy women to easily switch between casual weekend style and glam working executive mode, without having to swap out her handbag.  Crafted for stylish women who value practicality and convenience, every bag in the Lily Rose Collection is made from neoprene – a hardworking material offering no-snag protective cushioning that’s also weather-, water- and heat-resistant so it will last for ages. The added bonus? The entire bag is plastic- and latex-free.  The Lily Rose Collection bags are washing machine-friendly, extremely durable yet lightweight and with just the right amount of stretch to fit in that little something extra – because you can never have enough space in your handbag. With limited signature prints – photographed in Cape Town using locally-grown blooms – reminiscent of luxe Victorian fabrics, it’s apt that the brand name is the Lily Rose Collection. With lilies representing devotion to oneself, family or career, and roses known to signify love and passion, who better to turn to for a statement piece to carry all your daily essentials?  But you’ll love your Lily Rose Collection bag for more than just its good looks, because the designers really have thought of everything. A wide opening with a roomy main compartment, two zipped pockets, colour-matched canvas hand- and shoulder straps for ease of use, built-in elasticated mesh storage pouches for a water bottle or your wallet – plus, there are thoughtful details like zip stoppers, protective feet and a gorgeous, branded puller to secure everything inside.  Whether you opt for a soft, neutral colour palette like the Tranquillity bag, something bold like the Passion bag or attention-grabbing like Abundance, there’s a feminine print to suit every taste because a Lily Rose Collection bag is a style statement.  What’s new?? The Lily Rose Collection will be launching an all-new range of Neoprene beach bags just in time for the December holidays. Locally designed, locally manufactured in gorgeous new prints. Every beach bag will come included with a PC lotion bag to store your sunblock and the like – so keep your eyes peeled for the Launch! Currently available in South Africa, visit www.lilyrosecollection.co.za for more information or to start your collection today. 

November 2, 2021
Parenting Hub

Herbal extracts and how they can help overcome common women’s health issues

These days supplements, which include vitamins, minerals and herbal extracts, are easily available and more accessible. Fortunately, science and technology has also come a long way in recent years and we have made impressive strides with vitamins, minerals and herbal extracts in particular when it comes to studying and knowing the mechanism of action and how it relates to the body’s physiology and thereby, how it helps keep you healthy or how it can help treat ailments. The Salome range, launched by South African pharmaceutical company 3Sixty Biomedicine, addresses common women’s health issues using herbal extracts as a key ingredient. The current product range offers over the counter treatment options to help manage heavy menstrual bleeding, menstrual pain, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and infertility linked to PCOS.  3Sixty Biomedicine locally manufactures their products and because they are based on herbal extracts the added benefit for consumers is that they are safe to use and have limited side effects. Being a biotechnology company, the efficacy of these ingredients included in their products is backed by science and medical studies, which is why their products are recognized and reimbursed by certain medical aids. Common women’s health conditions that moms can do without – period! 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 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 known as dysmenorrhoea. What is great about Salome Menstrual Pain is because it contains natural ingredients, females from as young as 13 years old who suffer from menstrual pain can use it to manage painful menstrual cramping without worrying about unwanted side-effects. Another common problem experienced by women is menorrhagia (heavy menstrual flow and prolonged bleeding). 3Sixty Biomedicine created their Salome Heavy Menstrual Bleeding product to help alleviate this problem. The product also draws on herbal extracts from Capsella Bursa-Pastoris, a medicinal plant also known as Shepherd’s purse, as an active ingredient to assist 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. As an added bonus Capsella has antioxidant features that improve uterine tone, meaning that it will facilitate the regulation of menstrual blood flow. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can have a positive impact on the management of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). Understanding the basics of PCOS Salome Polycos assists with the management of symptoms commonly associated with PCOS by helping to decrease testosterone levels, increasing progesterone levels in women with irregular or absent periods and thus regulating the menstrual cycle, as well as reducing blood pressure levels. It also plays a role in increasing insulin activity in women diagnosed with PCOS, as many suffer from insulin resistance. Due to these hormonal imbalances women living with PCOS often battle with acne, irregular periods, male pattern hair loss or experience excessive body hair growth (hirsutism). Salome Polycos’s main active ingredient is D-chiro-inositol (DCI) which is a natural extract obtained from the carob tree. In cases where infertility can be linked back to the hormonal imbalances caused by PCOS, patients who make use of products like Salome Fertility that contain Myo-inositol and D-Chiro-inositol have seen an increase in their ovulation, a reduction in their hyperandrogenism and in the oxidative stress in their follicular fluid. The efficacy of the product lies in it containing the correct ratio of Myo-inositol and D-Chiro-inositol that have been extracted from the pod of the Carob bean tree. Clinical studies have shown that these natural extracts are instrumental in helping manage the regulation of ovarian function in PCOS patients. There is a solution! The full Salome range that contains natural herbal extracts is available online at Takealot.com and www.3Sixtybiomedicine.co.za, as well as over the counter at most pharmacies nationwide. The products are recognised and can also be reimbursed by medical aids.  We believe #YourJourneyMatters so follow the Salome range on their social media pages to hear from Salome experts who are committed to educating and normalizing conversations about common women’s health conditions.  Facebook: SalomeRange Twitter: SalomeRange Instagram: SalomeRange

November 1, 2021
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

Keep your kids moving

Winter is here and with it comes colder weather, making getting outside to play and exercise more of a challenge. But it’s still important. Bonitas Medical Fund suggests you try and keep your child active throughout the year and provides some suggestions to get them moving, exercising and having fun.

November 1, 2021
Lamelle Research Laboratories

Lamelle Dermaheal: Harness incredible age-defying power of growth factors

If you’re savvy about skincare, you’re probably using superstar active ingredients like retinol and alpha hydroxy acids. But what about growth factors? Being a relatively “new kid” on the block, not everybody knows what they are, let alone their amazing benefits. Worse yet, a lot of people still confuse them with stem cells. So, let’s clear up the confusion and get you up to speed with one of the most innovative ways to create a cutting-edge skincare routine. You’ve got mail! Growth factors are essential peptides – long strings of amino acids – found in abundance in your body. Their job is to float around between your cells and relay vital messages like “grow”, “repair”, “rejuvenate”. They do this by attaching to receptors on the surface of your cells. An easier way to look at it is to think of growth factors as being keys and the cell receptors as being little letterboxes with locks on them. When your growth factors meet your cells, they unlock each letterbox and – just like that – their message is delivered. While we’re young, our skin’s “postal system” is going strong. Everybody gets their mail. Cells run at their optimum. As we get older, however, our body’s produce fewer growth factors. Also, your cell’s letterbox locks start to get a little rusty. As a result, fewer important messages get delivered and your skin starts to show it. After all, less cell communication means less cell growth and that means thinner, laxer-looking skin. Growth factors to the rescue In the past, experiencing a dip in growth factors and the resultant visible ageing used to be a lot like watching your hair turn grey – a seemingly inevitable part of getting older. Now, however, thanks to incredible Nobel Prize-winning scientific research, we’ve realised we can replicate growth factors, apply them topically and reap the benefits. We know this because our bestselling Dermaheal range is full of them and they’re serving up dramatic results. As each product in the Dermaheal range contains growth factors, they can all help optimise the communication system between your cells, essentially instructing it to behave like much younger skin. The result is a boom in collagen and elastin creation to help you enjoy firmer, plumper, more youthful-looking skin. Then there’s the healing aspect. One of the growth factors in our Dermaheal range – the very one that inspired its name – is called TGF-Beta3. It’s an incredibly powerful protein that promotes scarless healing. What’s even more incredible is that your skin hasn’t seen it since childhood. It’s only now, thanks to the miracles of modern science, that we can invite your skin to behave as it did in its youth. Where do our growth factors come from? Thanks to decades of research, our bioengineers have been able to create exact replicas of your body’s own growth factors. Does this mean they contain human tissue? Definitely not! Our growth factors are made in a lab from specially selected amino acids that are then modified to be identical to those in your body. They’ve been scientifically proven to be 100% safe and, because they’re bio-identical, your body immediately recognises them so they can get to work immediately. We invite you to reap the rewards Want to experience the incredible rejuvenating power of growth factors for yourself? Like we said, our Dermaheal line is full of them. However, our most popular Dermaheal product is Lamelle Ultra Renewal Cream that contains 50% more growth factors than the other products in this range. It also includes a non-irritating form of wrinkle-busting retinol, hydrating hyaluronic acid fragments and a patented cytokine complex. (The latter is a spectacular inflammation fighter and that’s important because, if left unchecked chronic low-level inflammation leads to inflammageing – skin that ages prematurely. Chronic inflammation also creates the perfect playground for acne to thrive and hyperpigmentation to run wild.) In short, as you’re reading this, your cells’ function is slowly declining. But you don’t have to accept it. Once you harness the power of Dermaheal’s growth factors, a more youthful, radiant complexion will be yours to enjoy!  

November 1, 2021
Parenting Hub

Survey shows parents more worried about child consent than Covid-19 vaccine itself

The announcement by the South African government that children aged 12-18 are now eligible for Covid-19 vaccination has brought with it intense discussion around consent and the rights of minors. While this is so far a theoretical concern, given that most children in that age group will need their parents’ help to register for and receive a vaccination shot, a recent survey shows that the efficacy of the jab itself is no longer a sticking point. When gig technology company, M4Jam ran a survey asking adults if they were willing to be vaccinated in late 2020, 32% of the 3000 respondents said they would. 17% believed their community medical facilities could cope with the patient load, and 58% of respondents wanted to wait and see what happened to others who took the jab before deciding for themselves. In August 2021, a follow-up survey found that 56% of South Africans believed medical facilities would cope and 69% said they would happily be vaccinated. In both surveys, leading causes of mistrust and hesitancy were a lack of confidence in both possible side effects and the government’s ability to ensure that the vaccine’s contents were safe and effective. By the end of October 2021, a new dynamic has emerged in the vaccination drive, with parents now able to decide whether their kids should receive a single dose. In a new M4Jam survey, 2498 South Africans answered questions about children and the vaccine, revealing some positive trend shifts from previous surveys. A total of 1886 (76%) of the respondents are parents, which 80% of them said they would get their children vaccinated.. 47% strongly agreed with the statement. 52% of respondents said they had no concerns about children receiving the vaccine, but 74% were concerned that children do not require parental consent to get vaccinated.  64% of the parents said all that mattered to them was how effective the vaccine was in children, although 56% were still worried about possible short and long-term side effects from the vaccine.  “The results show an evolution of opinions in line with widening vaccination rollout and proven effectiveness,” says M4Jam CEO Georgie Midgley. “The more people who are vaccinated or know people who are, and the more those vaccinated people that have steered clear of Covid-19, the more positivity around the use of the vaccine will grow. However, people are still sceptical of the long-term safety of the vaccine as only time can resolve.” 83% of respondents felt children aged 12-18 are too young to make such a decision for themselves. “Again, because this is new ground for the vaccination programme, parents are understandably cautious about any potential differences in effects on children versus what adults experience,” says Midgley. When asked which sources of information parents trusted in deciding to get their children vaccinated: “What was very interesting and encouraging was that only 5% of respondents said they trusted what they read on social media completely. Co-workers and classmates received a similarly low complete trust rating at 9%. The vaccination messaging campaign seems to have made significant headway so that any residual concerns and fears are mostly legitimate by this stage. Parents are more worried about the ability of their children to make important decisions than they are about the vaccine itself,” says Midgley. 

October 29, 2021
Prima Baby

Chicco Oasys 2-3 Evo FixPlus

Chicco, world leaders in baby travel, introduce the brand new toddler seat, the all-round, comprehensive Oasys 2-3 Evo FixPlus – perfect for the forward-facing part of your child’s car travels. Relax and #parentmore knowing your little one is as protected as can get with the rigorous safety standards that come with every Chicco car seat. Oasys 2-3 Evo FixPlus grows with your child and features a new level of safety – the new Safe Pad. The perfect booster seat for toddlers, this group 2/3 car seat is suitable for children weighing between 15 kg and 36 kg (From 3 – 12 years).  Installing the Chicco child safety is easy and done in only a few steps by using your vehicle’s own 3-point belt which makes it perfectly suitable for being installed in almost every vehicle type. In order to gain even more safety and security for your child, you can attach the rigid FixPlus connectors to the Isofix-points in your vehicle. No matter when or how fast your little one grows, the Oasys 2-3 Fixplus Evo car seat always adapts perfectly to your child’s body size. Both height and width can be adjusted independently of each other by using a convenient rotary wheel. At the touch of a button, you can adjust the backrest and seat surface in four different levels until a comfortable position for your little one is created. The integrated cup holder keeps their bottle or sippy cup within arms reach for road trips. If your little one spills on the car seat, no problem! Easily remove the cover and throw it in the wash to restore its slick and pristine look. You can pick up Oasys 2-3 Evo FixPlus from Takealot, Loot, The Kid Zone, Babanino and other participating retailers now.

October 29, 2021
Sudocrem South Africa

Take care of baby’s delicate skin in the early days

One of the most exciting events in life is to bring a new baby into this world!  But little do we know how much pressure it puts on us as new parents, to ensure that we do everything right for this new little bundle of joy.  From worrying about feeding to whether or not this precious life is getting enough sleep, the last thing that mom needs to  worry herself with is choosing the best barrier cream for baby’s delicate bottom. Sudocrem skin and baby care cream can be used on the baby’s bottom from day one.  With its zinc and lanolin ingredients, Sudocrem skin and baby care cream is perfect for not only protecting from nappy rash, but for treating it too.  The hypoallergenic triple-care ointment is so light that it glides onto delicate skin without dragging or pulling.  Because Sudocrem skin and baby care cream has been developed specifically for babies, all the ingredients are designed to focus on the protection of nappy rash. Nappy rash is one of the most common skin conditions of your baby’s early life. It is extremely uncomfortable and is generally linked to wet or infrequently changed nappies and diarrhea amongst other things. In the early stages of your baby’s life, use Sudocrem skin and baby care cream to soothe, heal and protect and moisturise against nappy rash.  Sudocrem skin and baby care cream works in three different ways : A water-repellent base forms a protective barrier that prevents any irritants such as urine and faeces, from coming into contact with the baby’s delicate skin It contains an emollient that soothes sore skin Its cooling properties help ease pain and irritation Sudocrem skin and baby care cream can be applied at every nappy change and this is recommended.  This will help soothe nappy rash if it has occurred, as well as protect your baby’s skin from nappy rash forming.   The best way to use Sudocrem skin and baby care cream? Ensure your baby’s bottom is clean and dry With clean and dry hands, place a small amount of Sudocrem skin and baby care cream on the tip of your finger.  Remember that a little goes a long way Gently massage Sudocrem into the skin using light, circular movements.  Try to avoid rubbing especially if the skin looks irritated and sore What you want to achieve is a thin light, translucent film on the skin.  Repeat the application to the baby’s bottom as often as you need to.  We recommend with every nappy change How do I recognize nappy rash? The baby’s bottom may have red patches or the whole area may appear red The baby’s skin may look sore and feel hot to the touch How do I treat nappy rash? Change wet or soiled nappies as soon as possible. Young babies need changing as many as ten to twelve times a day, whilst older babies at least six to eight times a day Ensure you clean the whole nappy area thoroughly using plain water or baby wipes, wiping front to back Lie your baby on a towel and leave the nappy off for as long and as often as you can, to let fresh air get to the skin Apply Sudocrem skin and baby care cream Moms all over the world have been using Sudocrem skin and baby care cream with confidence for over 80 years. Ingredients should always be checked before use. If  nappy rash persists, seek medical advice. 

October 29, 2021
Koa Academy

Bringing School 2.0 to Life at Koa Academy

Koa Academy embraces a high-contact philosophy where children belong to an 8-person Pod guided by a dedicated teacher.  While timetables are individual and terms are flexible for each family, the Pod gathers together each school day providing opportunities to develop collaboration, critical thinking, emotional intelligence and communication skills.  The Academy is a provider of the South African IEB curriculum and lesson content is sourced from top educational resources worldwide.  Age-appropriate feedback and assessment is embedded in the learning experience so that children can adapt in dynamic ways on the pathway to mastery. “There are options opening up for parents that have just never existed when it comes to educating their children,” says Koa Academy Principal, Mark Anderson.  “It’s becoming easier to truly align your family values with a school community because you are no longer limited to the institution available in your physical neighbourhood.  At Koa Academy we prioritise engagement in small group settings so that real relationships are built and maintained more easily than in larger classes where it is often challenging to connect meaningfully with peers and your teacher.  Parents are directly connected to their child’s teacher, in tune with their child’s school activities and more empowered when it comes to their child’s learning, social and emotional development and their progression through school grades.” The pandemic disruption has made us all question priorities, values and how we can better shape our lives to be in alignment with what really matters to us.  “There’s a new openness to doing life differently, to do life better,” says Mark.  “For families, educating our children well for a productive and fulfilling future is a critical concern.  On the one hand, the new choices emerging in education are inevitable as we all know that transformation in education is long overdue.  However, the pandemic has accelerated this and that is a positive consequence.  From education providers and teachers to parents and children, there’s a welcoming when it comes to having more choices, and better choices.” To find out more about Koa Academy, click here. 

October 28, 2021
Parenting Hub

Are Shorter Working Weeks Feasible?

Autonomy Research Ltd recently released findings of a study they performed across the PCS Scotland trade union and FDA trade union members on the impact and feasibility of shorter working weeks. Findings indicate that a wide range of business areas can afford to move to shorter working weeks. After collecting data from more than 2000 Scottish Government employees, Autonomy found that 87% of employees support the idea of shorter working weeks. 84% of respondents said that they currently have sufficient flexibility within their careers to adapt their current processes for a four-day working week. The report also investigated the benefits of a shorter working week. All indications pointed out that four-day working weeks would lead to a happier and healthier workforce.  Adzuna did a little digging and found that many organisations are giving the idea a go. Here’s what you need to know about the rise of the 4-day workweek! Are Shorter Working Weeks on the Horizon? Although the idea of a four-day workweek might sound like a pipeline dream, automation could make it possible for employees to get the same amount of work done in less time and still meet their goals. We already know that AI and machine learning will disrupt how and when we work, and thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, the shift to new technological adaptations has been sped up significantly. Many companies, like Perpetual Guardian (based in New Zealand), are already realising and reaping the benefits of shorter working weeks. They say that a four-day workweek increases employee satisfaction and company commitment while also reducing stress levels. And contrary to what the sceptics predicted, shortening the workweek doesn’t harm productivity or company performance. Understanding the 4-Day Work Week A four-day workweek doesn’t mean compressing a work schedule. It means that working hours are reduced. Instead of working 35-40 hours over five days per week, employees work around 28 hours across four days and get three days of downtime. Reducing the working week down to merely 28 hours might sound a little radical, but not if you consider how much the typical work week has changed over the last century. Back in 1890, full-time manufacturing plant employees were working an average of 100 hours per week. Luckily, by the mid-20th century, that was down to about 40 hours per week.  And that, as they say, is how the weekend was won. With these stats in mind, reducing our work week down to 28 hours doesn’t seem so radical any longer. What Are the Benefits of Shorter Working Weeks? The idea of a 4-day workweek is still a new concept that’ll become more widely accepted as tech advanced. But many companies are giving it a run for its money, and they see promising results. Here are some of the potential benefits we can expect: Increased Job Satisfaction It almost goes without saying that overworked employees are less productive than their counterparts that work regular hours. New Zealand’s Perpetual Guardian did a trial of the 4-day work week and found that their employees maintained productivity levels. Not only that, but their employees were more satisfied in their jobs. Work-life balance also increased, and so did company loyalty. Higher Employee Engagement Rates Employees that have a better work-life balance are bound to be happier and more committed to their jobs. This might lead to reduced sick leave taken by employees, which enhances productivity levels. Sweden conducted a trial study into shorter working weeks between 2015 and 2017, and the results were positive. Study participants reported better general health and mental wellbeing along with greater engagement. A Reduced Carbon Footprint Reducing the workweek from five to four days could be beneficial for the environment too. Shortening the workweek leads to less commuting and smaller office spaces. A Utah-based study on government employees indicated a significant ecological impact with implementing a shorter workweek. The project saved more than $1.8m in energy costs over the first ten months and reduced about 6,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions just by closing the office building on Fridays. The state estimated that it could save 12,000 metric tons of CO2 if the impact of commuting were added to the equation. That’s the equivalent of 2,300 cars being removed from the roads for a year! Are There Any Drawbacks? The 4-day workweek does have its benefits, but it also poses a handful of disadvantages. Shorter working weeks can only work if the proper support, technology, and workplace culture are already in place. Here’s what else could go wrong: Customer Satisfaction Although the study in Utah showed great environmental, employee, and employer benefits, it took a big knock in the customer satisfaction department. Customers were unhappy about not having access to government services on Fridays. To help solve this issue, companies can use chatbots and AI-powered websites that offer support even when the human workforce isn’t around. Compressing Instead of Shortening the Work Week Many employers think that a 4-day work week would simply mean compressing the hours of a 5-day work week into four days. But employees that are still expected to work 35-40 hours over four days will show decreased productivity rates. It might also negatively impact employee engagement and overall job satisfaction. Employers that want to embrace the 4-day workweek must be able to accept 7 hours of work per day from their employees. In Conclusion Our world might be more digitized than ever before as we embrace the global economy. But we’re not quite ready to adopt the 4-day work week. In the future, this might be one of the best ways to protect and promote the wellbeing of human employees in a workforce dominated by AI, but a lot needs to happen before we reach that point!

October 27, 2021
Good Night Baby

Why making book reading part of your bedtime routine is smart

By now you know that creating a predictable bedtime routine helps set your child up for a better nights rest. A previous blog about Bedtime and Naptime rituals for Toddlers mentioned how reading a book together at bedtime promotes cognitive development as well as bonding between you and your little one. But there is more. Interactive, shared book reading can also support a wide range of early language skills. We as parents tend to think we have to read to our child, but it actually has greater benefits if you read with your child. Children learn the most language during enjoyable back-and-forth interactions with you, their beloved parent. When you read with your child regularly, your child may learn language faster, enter school with a larger vocabulary, and become a more successful reader eventually. How do you read with your child? Follow your child’s lead As mentioned in this blog your bedtime routine must be fun. This is not the time to argue with child. Let your child choose the book she wants to read, even if you have read it umpteen times before. You could even allow your child to hold the book and decide when to turn the page. She is more engaged when she plays an active role in the book reading and an engaged child is a learning child! Make it a conversation You can simply read the story, or you can talk about the characters, or illustrations or plot. Watch your child to see what she points to and make a comment about that. Having a conversation about the book helps your child understand the story better and it exposes her to more complex language. Besides, there is nothing more calming than a quiet conversation with mom or dad before bedtime. Don’t ask questions all the time Remember, the aim is to have an enjoyable back-and-forth conversation. You do not want to test your child’s knowledge here. Pause often and wait for your child to participate, rather than bombarding her with questions. If you do want to ask a question, make sure it is an open-ended question such as, ‘How do you think Mouse felt when he found out the Gruffalo really existed?’ It is never too early to start reading with your child and reading with your child is never a waste. Happy reading! www.talkingtokiddo.com By Lize van der Merwe – Speech Language Therapist with special interest in early language development

October 27, 2021
Good Night Baby

Creating a perfect sleeping environment

Creating a sleep-friendly environment for your child is an essential factor to provide a good night’s rest. Children take time to fall asleep; it depends on how sleepy they feel after their bedtime routine and if their naps during the day were successful. It is vital to ensure that their daytime routines and bedtime routines assist in setting the stage for a good night’s rest. If you are sure that your routine is perfect and that your child’s tummy is full, you also need to consider what your child’s sleeping environment is like, as it also has to be conducive to sleep. Let’s look at a few factors that might play a role: Setting the stage for sleep You need to ensure that your child knows that his/her room is for sleeping only. Try to teach your child that their room is a place of relaxation; create a calm and safe space where they know that they can relax. If their room is too engaging and used as a play area, your child will not understand why he/she cannot play when it is time for a nap. Blue light Creating a relaxing atmosphere for bedtime includes making sure no screens are emitting blue light. This consists of any screens, tablets, or monitors emitting blue light like some video monitors do. This light interferes with the production of melatonin, the sleepy hormone. This can cause your child to struggle to fall asleep and to stay asleep. Please note it is not the colour of the light that matters but rather any LED’s that can emit blue or white light. Blackout curtains Light influences sleep; thus, it is vital to ensure that no light enters the room. Any light shining in from outside will also most likely cause your child to wake up early as it will cause melatonin production to stop. To ensure that this does not happen, invest in blackout curtains or adhesives that you stick to your window to ensure no light peeking through the curtains. Night lights Some toddlers do have night time fears, and this is where a night light comes in handy. Having any light in the room does prevent melatonin production, which is why you have to ensure that you install a natural light if you decide to use a night light. Natural light includes night lights like Himalayan salt lamps (non-LED globes to be used). If you have an older child that can understand more advanced concepts, you can also get a clock that shows you when it is time to wake up. A watch makes it easy for children to know when it is time to get out of bed. White noise If you have a noisy environment or multiple children in the house, then using white noise would be beneficial, both during the day and at night. White noise will drown out outside noises and helps your baby not to wake up from birds chirping in the early hours of the morning. Aromatherapy oils Aromatherapy oils can provide a soothing atmosphere for your child, and may help their little brains relax if they smell a particular scent such as lavender; this helps set the stage for sleep. You can use an aromatherapy oil diffuser in your child’s room during the bedtime routine or use a diluted oil to apply to their body. Bedding Always keep safety in mind when it comes to your child’s sleeping space. Keep loose bedding that your child could get entangled in to a minimum and if you have a child under the age of one year, please keep the risk factors of SIDS in mind. Invest in top quality materials such as cotton or hemp that regulate body temperature. Natural fibres do not cause your child to overheat and is breathable for those hot summer months. Give your child a comfort item such as a taglet (not under 6 months of age) to hold onto as a sustainable sleep association. The ideal temperature for sleep is between 21 and 23 degrees Celsius, so dress your child accordingly and adjust the room temperature if possible. Bottles If your child is old enough to reach for his/ her bottle, do not leave a bottle of milk beside their bed. It is essential to keep safety in mind as they can choke while lying down and drinking, and it also causes tooth decay. Please ensure that your child eats and feeds during the day so that he/she does not make up for lost calories at night. Many factors play a role when it comes to sleep. Creating a healthy sleep environment is one of the building blocks that you need to have in place for your child to sleep like a superhero. Please contact us at www.goodnightbaby.co.za if you need further information or a FREE consultation for us to assess your unique circumstances. By Anneri van Rooyen – Good Night Sleep Consultant

October 26, 2021
Koa Academy

RAISING DIGITALLY SAFE ONLINE SCHOOLERS.

Koa Academy to host free parent webinar The global pandemic has emphasized how important our digital world is to modern life as we pivoted out of necessity to remote working, at-home schooling and online shopping.  Many millions of us got our first experiences of certain digital platforms and applications that have now become part of day-to-day life.  Trends such as online education have been greatly accelerated as many families experienced the benefits of remote learning and noted how successfully their children and teens adapted to learning through well-conceived digital platforms.   This has opened up the opportunities to think about schooling and tertiary studies differently and to take advantage of the greater flexibility and vast choice of high-quality educational programmes that can be accessed online.  As a result, many thousands of South African families have not returned to brick and mortar schools and colleges.  New and better online schools have emerged, and many tertiary institutions have invested in enhancing and expanding their online campuses. If there’s one question that concerns parents more than any other about online education, it’s about the online safety of their children.  While we are adept at identifying threats in the physical world and helping our children reduce those risks, online dangers can be more opaque to parents, and they may worry that more time online might lead to increased vulnerability.  However, CEO and Principal of Koa Academy, Mark Anderson points out that a high-engagement online education platform is specifically designed with safe online spaces which enhance your child’s digital citizenship equipping them to navigate the internet confidently, responsibly and wisely.  This development of digital citizenship is increasingly regarded as a key 21st Century skill for the 4iR world. Parents who want to deepen their understanding of how to keep their kids safe online can join the free one-hour Koa Academy webinar on Tuesday, 2 November from 18h00.  The panel is hosted by Mark Anderson and also features Rachelle Best, founder of FYI play it safe, a non-intrusive, consensual monitoring app that helps parents by adding a layer of security to their child’s online interactions.  They are joined by ICT law specialist, attorney Arinda Truter, an associate at law firm, Dingley Marshall Lewin Inc.  In addition to the presentations there will be a Q&A session enabling parents to present their burning questions to the experts. Across the board, the presenters agree that parent-child communication based on trust is at heart of keeping children safe online.  Just as the issue of safety and awareness of threats in the physical world is an ongoing conversation in families, this needs to happen too in regard to our children’s online interactions.   Best says, “Parents need so see online safety as a holistic concept. Setting up screentime and the relevant age and content restrictions on applications are not enough. Parents need to understand threats and risks in a world where new apps are made available every day, and tech is ever-changing. So, there’s a need for parents to be aware and knowledgeable so that they make good decisions when it comes to keeping their children safe online.  At FYI play it safe, we also believe that keeping your children safer online starts with the relationship with your child. We empower parents with the right level of information to know when their children may need their help. This creates an opportunity to open up conversations with the right information and at exactly the right time.” Attorney, Arinda Truter emphasises that children attending online schools do not face different risks than any other child making use of the internet and engaging with others over social media.  She says, “It’s important for all parents to be aware of the risks presented by online gaming, apps and social media.  It is just part of the modern parenting experience to have knowledge of issues such as cyberbullying, hate speech and sexting, to be aware of privacy concerns and digital footprint, and to understand the law when it comes to the chain of online publishing.” Anderson also points out that positive experiences offered by online schooling give your child the opportunity to build their skills as a literate, responsible digital citizen.  He says, “Koa has thoughtfully designed the online school experience to not only maximise safety but leverage the advantages of being online.  The high engagement of our small Pods with a maximum of eight learners and their teacher gives the kids the perfect environment for healthy relationship-building and online social connection. There is high accountability where people can be themselves and quickly get to know others well. The teacher is also very much in touch with each individual in the Pod.  Parents are encouraged to get to know their child’s teacher and school leadership. We like to keep the channels of communication wide open so that everyone is in the loop.  Live Dashboards show academic progress which keeps the kids accountable to their daily work rhythms and targets, ensuring that they are keeping busy during their school time.  Our SACE- registered teachers undergo regular training and have significant experience in the online space, which is an asset both to the kids and their parents.  Koa has a strong focus on teaching digital literacy which is fed into all of our academic courses, Pod Connect sessions and even online socials. We intentionally teach online socio-emotional skills as well as practical tools for handling potentially unwanted online experiences or content.” Parents who want to learn more about online safety for families, and how to support their children as they gain vital digital literacy and citizenship skills can join the free Koa Academy webinar: Date: Tuesday 2 November Time: 18:00-19:00 Platform: Zoom Host: Koa Academy Panelists from Koa Academy, FYI Play It Safe, Dingley Marshall Lewin Inc To book your spot for this webinar, register here.

October 26, 2021
Wingu Academy

Wingu Academy – challenging expectations about schooling from home through excellence and innovation.

Due to the global pandemic and the subsequent disruptions in the traditional schooling environment, home-schooling, and specifically online schooling, has seen a significant rise. With the concern for their children’s health, coupled with the flexibility and convenience that online home-schooling offers, it has become a viable option for many parents. Wingu Academy arguably has the most advanced distance and blended learning platform in the online space in Africa. Our platform gives educational support to home-schoolers all over Africa between the ages of 5 – 19 years. Live classes and tutorials are presented along with interactive online content. The platform aims to enrich learners with 4th industrial revolution (4IR) skills such as critical thinking, creativity, complex problem solving and online collaboration. Housed at TuksNovation (University of Pretoria’s High Tech Business Accelerator), it has been developed by teachers, UP alumni, and postgraduate students who are experts in their respective fields with additional collaboration with researchers from the Wits School of Education. The ever-evolving Wingu platform provides the internationally recognised British curricula and as of January 2022 Wingu Academy will extend their high-school offering to include the South African CAPS curriculum.  Enrolments are now open for the January 2022 intake! Wingu Academy focuses on a blended learning approach that includes asynchronous (self-paced, student-led) and synchronous (interactive live classes) learning, enriched with animations, video content, infographics, gamification and simulations to cater for the major types of learning styles (visual, auditory, reading/writing, kinaesthetic learning styles)  and implementing constructive feedback in continuous assessments providing a wide variety of choices to support individual learning at home. The learners are exposed to computation thinking from as early as grade 1, and the coding and robotics courses culminate into industry relevant software development certificates for the high school learners, increasing their employability and readiness for the Future of Work. Wingu is also very proud to announce the launch of WinguNet. “The launch of WinguNet has been much anticipated and serves to address the need of stable, high-speed internet in areas where there is poor or no coverage,” says Ian Strydom, Wingu Academy Managing Director. The introduction of WinguNet to the range of services delivered by Wingu Academy further indicates how in tune we are with the needs of parents and students. “This will be introduced to the existing parents and students first on the platform who struggle with connectivity, thereafter being rolled out with the mission of connecting and educating students in difficult-to-reach, isolated areas. This satellite initiative is the first of its kind – just another way that Wingu stays true to their principles of advancing education and enabling excellence,” Strydom concludes. The platform is well suited for full-time learners, global citizens that travel frequently, star athletes that need to focus on training but still want an internationally recognised education, and students that would like to obtain entrance to university degrees either locally or abroad. ‘’We decided to homeschool four years ago when we were wanting to relocate. Although we did not relocate we continued with homeschooling because of the freedom it gave us. The cost and distance of “good” private schools were extremely high and exhausting. With homeschooling we didn’t have to leave home early and spend hours in traffic, the money we saved on school fees, travel expenses and uniforms were spent on extracurricular activities and family outings”, says Melissa Dhunraj, a Wingu parent. Many parents may be worried that their children will miss out on social interaction, but they still get to meet friends and even form study groups as they are not bound by geographical borders.  In fact, Wingu also offers a variety of Clubs varying from fitness, chess to photography and parents have the opportunity to become involved too. “We have been home schooling for a few years and decided to go a more formal route with our children this year. We have been pleasantly surprised with the support and structure that Wingu Academy has offered us, whilst still allowing us the flexibility of being able to travel, to continue our homeschooling friendships and still allow our kids the time to follow their passions. Our children enjoy the social events offered by the school, the staff who make every effort to ensure lessons are fun and interactive, and the new friends that they are making,” says Marlene van der Colf, another happy Wingu Parent. But what do our students say? “My favourite part about Wingu is that we can do school anywhere and we don’t have to wear a mask. I like the homework and announcements so I can be ready before class,” says Ariana age 8, Stage 3. “I enjoy the fact that we can learn online with less pressure and no unnecessary subjects and inapplicable projects.  It gives me more flexi time during the day,” says Conrad, age 13, Stage 8. Student well-being, particularly mental health, is at the heart of Wingu’s core foundation. Our Wellness Hub is expanding to offer professional guidance to both students and parents in areas of concern, as well as leadership initiatives for the learners. Another addition to the Wingu offering is the establishment of Learning Centres. We have identified that there are certain towns, rural or lower-income areas where there is a need for learning centres. The aim is thus to assist these learning centres with developing and growing their business into small independent schools or becoming registered Cambridge Assessments International Education schools. We do so with a special Incubation Programme which offers business development, management and operational support. Wingu Academy’s innovative strategy is at the forefront of equipping students for the 4IR with a forward-thinking strategy of anywhere, anytime, staying connected and offering the future classroom today! Enrolments to start schooling in January 2022 are officially open. There is limited space, so reach out soon. Go to https://wingu-academy.com/book-now/ to book a FREE consultation now!

October 25, 2021
Solarpop

Meet the Magbuddies

Magformers is a magnetic construction toy which allows children of all ages to express themselves through build and play, Magformers is more than just a construction toy.  Once the Mag Buddies join the fun your child’s collection becomes an endlessly versatile playset. Meet the Mag Buddies! Magformers MAG BUDDIES are compact sets that come with Magformers magnetic pieces and a figure, making them perfect to collect. With a total of 4 characters, children and adults can choose their favourite set. This special Magformers product is fun for everyone of all ages. When connected all four sets make a series of mega-mansions for the friends to live in and play happily. Visit Max’s playground. Max the playful character just loves to build and play – and he loves hanging out at his ever-changing playground. Sometimes he puts a swing upstairs, other times he puts the slide in his room.   Max’s Playground, making design changes is super easy – he just smashes it down and starts again – because with Magformers magnetic construction it never takes long to build a new playground layout.  Maggy’s wonderful house. Maggy loves to decorate and build a beautiful new house every day – and she can, using a mix of magnetic shapes and accessories including a door, window, balcony, furniture, a bed, a bath, TV. She picks and chooses how she wants to live.  Sometimes her bedroom is upstairs, other times she builds it at ground level. And making design changes is super easy…just smash it down and start again, because with Magformers magnetic construction it never takes long to build a new home.  Minibot is the world’s hardest-working chef. Every day he builds his very own kitchen to whatever design takes his fancy – then cooks up a delicious meal for his friends in his little oven. Each day this busy bot designs a brand-new kitchen layout using Magformers magnetic construction squares and triangles plus chairs, a table, fridge, oven with sliding drawer, windows, and other fun accessories.  With Minibot’s Kitchen Set making changes is always as easy as pie – you just smash it down and start again – because with Magformers magnetic construction it never takes long to build a new design.  Milo is the luckiest puppy in the world. This pampered pooch lives the high life in his very own mansion. Every day this happy hound decides how he wants to design his home using stairs, windows, a swing door, an outside kennel, a special tree piece, and other fun accessories.  And with Milo’s Mansion Set making design changes is super easy – you just smash it down and start again – because with Magformers magnetic construction it never takes long to build a new layout.

October 25, 2021
Prima Baby

Chicco Ohlala2 Stroller – Black Nite

When you want to make an entrance there is only one stroller that says urban cool with the utmost confidence – the Chicco Ohlala2. In slick Black Nite colouring, this diverse and convenient travel option is an all-round solution when looking for a lightweight, easy-to-fold yet durable solution to shopping, strolling and hanging out with your little one. Easy enough to ‘lift with one finger’, this 3.8kg stroller makes going out with baby so much easier when packing away in cars or accessing stairways. Fully reclining when it’s nap time for baby, you can use the extra coverage of the UV50+ protected canopy to keep harmful rays at bay. With a strong bumper bar protecting from forward falls, baby can hold on and watch the world go by whilst being strapped in with the five-point safety strap. Durable wheels make the Ohlala2 perfect for roads, pavements, malls and hard exteriors. As baby grows, the footrest will make sure they are neatly tucked in and ready to go. Pop your shopping or baby essentials in the large storage basket and be ready to make an impression with this ultra-fashion stroller. Also available in twin mode. Suitable up to 22kgs. Grab one at the reduced price of R1999 from www.shopchicco.co.za while stocks last.

October 22, 2021
FYI Play it Safe

Good news for concerned parents using iPhones – FYI play it safe now available in web browser

FYI play it safe, the app that alerts parents when their children are in potential online danger can now also be used by parents with iPhones.  “In our first release of FYI play it safe, we had the ability to provide the application only to Android-families. We have received many requests from parents who use iPhones to develop a version that can be accessed from their devices. We are excited to announce the release of FYI safe web, making the monitoring of children’s activities available to parents from any web browser on any device. This means that parents with iPhones or iPads will now also benefit from the protection of FYI play it safe for their children,” said Rachelle Best, CEO and Founder of FYI play it safe.  “Although we are continuously updating the words, phrases and emojis we include in our monitoring mechanisms, this release also includes a significant expansion in any drug-related activity, which we believe strengthens the level of comfort FYI play it safe gives to our parents,” continued Best. Privacy remains a top priority and the relevant measures have been put in place and are continuously strengthened for both parents and their children who subscribe to the app. FYI play it safe is not a parental control app, but rather a complementary layer of added security for parents of children between the ages of 8 and 16.   “While tweens and teenagers are focused on having fun and meeting new friends online, parents need to balance the tension between respecting their children’s privacy and navigating the risks presented by social media platforms, gaming, anonymous chat rooms and search engine content.” concluded Best.  Download the app at www.fyiplayitsafe.com and follow the easy three-step sign-up process to start your free 7-day trial.

October 22, 2021
Parenting Hub

Math Major Jobs to Explore Right Now!

It goes without saying that if you’re a math major, you love problem-solving and numbers. But what are your options once you graduate? In short: a lot! To help you narrow down your choices, Adzuna compiled a list of the hottest math major jobs that you can pursue with a math degree. But before we get to the juicy details, let’s examine why this study field is so awesome. Skills Developed by Studying Math There are many essential skills you’ll develop while pursuing a math major. And the good news is that these are primarily transferable skills. Here’s a look at the kind of skills you’ll develop throughout your studies: Analytical and Quantitative Skills Analytical and quantitative skills are, unsurprisingly, the fundamental strength of any math major. The kind of problems you’ll have to solve during your studies requires an analytical eye. And to come to accurate solutions, you’ll need strong quantitative skills. These are skills that all employers value, especially for roles where decisions based on large amounts of information must be made. Critical Thinking By evaluating all types of evidence (or lack thereof), math majors develop critical thinking skills. Their ability to consider all variables ad outcomes to establish a clear and concise opinion is invaluable in just about every job. Problem-Solving Skills Problem-solving skills are non-negotiable for all employers. Potential employers look for people with the ability to not only identify a problem but also assess it and come up with the best possible solution to the problem. Since math majors have experience considering complex problems in various ways, they tend to think outside the box to develop creative solutions. These transferable skills are instrumental across almost all roles and industries. Communication Skills To defend the logic behind their proposals and solutions, math majors develop strong communication skills throughout their studies. Since they often need to explain complex solutions and offer clear reasoning behind their decision-making processes, they have a lot of experience in communication that can be applied to many areas outside of math. Computer Skills Math majors often gain experience in statistical modeling, programming, algorithms, and databases since it can help them solve complex problems. In our digital-first world, computer skills are no longer nice to have but absolutely essential for any job seeker. What are the Best Math Major Jobs? Since they gain so many valuable transferable skills during their studies, math majors can explore a wide range of career options. Here’s a quick look at some of the most popular choices. #1 – Data Analyst Data analysts work with large amounts of qualitative and quantitative information to gain insights. Depending on your position, you might be tasked with collecting data, managing it, and interpreting it to make recommendations that’ll improve business processes. You’ll likely also need statistical skills to get into a data analysis role. But again, this is something you’ll pick up during your coursework. It might be helpful to gain experience in programming languages and software that’ll help you parse and present the data. SQL, Tableau, and even Microsoft Excel are all beneficial to have knowledge of. #2 – Accountant Accountants, as you know, keep track of finances. From reviewing contracts or invoices to reconciling accounts, there are many tasks involved in this role. You might also be responsible for conducting financial reviews, developing reports, and preparing tax filings. Accountants must be very detail-oriented and have a passion for working with numbers. They must also be able to maintain accurate records and have strong problem-solving skills. Adding relevant financial classes to your coursework can help you get your foot into this arena. #3 – Math Teacher If you’re passionate about helping others understand math subjects like algebra, calculus, trigonometry, and geometry, entering the teaching sector might be ideal. As a mathematics teacher, you’ll create lesson plans and develop teaching approaches that cater to various learning styles. You’ll also assess students and provide feedback on their performance. Teaching can be a rewarding career for math majors because you’ll get to share your knowledge and passion for math. For obvious reasons, you’ll need strong communication skills to become a mathematics teacher. To get in, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree in math. If you’re aiming to teach at college level, you’ll have to earn an advanced degree, though. Obtaining a Ph.D. will open up doors for teaching at almost any kind of educational institution. #4 – Market Research Analyst Market research analysts are responsible for extracting data insights that help companies better position their offerings for their audiences. These professionals collect data through surveys in order to identify trends that assist the marketing department’s function. They also do exploratory research to identify ideal brand positioning strategies. Market research analysis might not immediately sound like one of the best math major jobs, but you’ll use much of what you’ve learned throughout your studies in this role. Your knowledge will help you create forecasts, manage datasets, and conduct statistical analysis. You’ll also deploy your quantitative and critical thinking skills to explore opportunities and develop innovative solutions. #5 – Financial Analyst Responsible for evaluating past and current financial expenditures, financial analysts are also tasked with forecasting future financial performance stats for their employer. These professionals make recommendations that can help improve financial outcomes and shape budgeting and investments. In this role, you’ll be doing a lot of research, staying on top of business news, and applying your analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills to help accelerate company growth. When presenting your findings, you’ll also need to deploy your strong communication skills. In Conclusion As you can see, you’ll gain much more than just a math degree as a math major. The transferable skills you’ll pick up during your coursework will benefit many roles in almost every sector or business. Although you might have to gain some practical experience in specific roles to advance up the career ladder, your degree and transferable skills will be enough to land you an entry-level position in the six

October 21, 2021
Parenting Hub

Review: Organic Aromas Nebulizing Diffuser

Organic diffusers are an affordable, versatile, and convenient way to improve your health and quality of life. The organic Aromas Nebulizing Diffuser is a beautiful atmospheric essential that works through the simple process of oil diffusion, which uses differential in air-pressure to turn oil into a vapour that is then spread around a living space. This innovative Nebulizing Diffuser releases a mist of beautiful fragrance of pure essential oils and works together with one of the product’s main features to produce an LED mood lighting that creates a calm and gentle atmosphere.  And… it is truly beautiful to look at making it the perfect accessory to any home or office. The organic Aromas Nebulizing Diffuser uses the Bernoulli’s Principle. It blows pressurised air through a glass pipe and has a convenient knob to adjust the volume of fragrance coming through the nebulizer. The diffuser is quiet and doesn’t require a lot of effort to setup.  Everything is included in the box and we had the unit up and running quickly. Once you load the essential oil into the glass reservoir using the supplied dropper, you can switch the unit on. It is quick to release the fragrance and silent as well as beautiful and mesmerising to look at. Using the turning knob we had the unit on the lowest setting and our home was filled with a beautiful fragrance in no time. Not only is this product beneficial for you, it creates cleaner air. Indoor air quality is another proven benefit and makes room for more health improvement. The essential oils are able to help prevent all that you don’t want around you, including bacteria and fungus that needs to be exterminated.  With the dust and bacteria decrease you are able to breathe with ease, especially during allergy season. Organic Aromas offer a wide variety of essential oils for you to choose. They are concentrated and you do not need to add water to the unit, so a little… certainly does go a long way. The Organic Aromas website have essential oil sets or you can purchase individual oils to your individual preference. As accidents do happen and the glass is rather thin, if ever your unit does break, you could easily replace the glass reservoir, adapter or cleaning pipes. Certainly one of the better features is that the unit automatically switches off after two hours. We do recommend the usage of the diffuser within a well-circulated or open area. The Organic Aromas Magnificent – Nebulizing Diffuser is a fantastic device. It has added great value. All I need is this one nebulizer to fragrance my home or office. The benefits of diffusers are many and can safely be used every day to: Help you relax Promote feeling of serenity Improve focus and clarity Enhance your mood Help clear airways for easier breathing Promote healthy sleep patterns Relief of pain and cramping Visit the Organic Aromas website to purchase your unit today 

October 20, 2021
Toptots Head Office

How to encourage a love of learning

We try to teach our toddlers many things now in the hopes that it will stick with them when they are older. Not all of those lessons will carry through but teaching them to love learning is one that can. This is because the positive or negative thoughts surrounding learning are often derived from an emotional connection to the concept. If your child grows up hearing negative language in reference to reading, writing and learning new things – that emotion will stick with them as they get to school age.  However, if they grow up associating learning to be beneficial, exciting and an accomplishment, they will approach their academic lives with enthusiasm.  Make it exciting As a toddler, learning should not be seen as a chore. For you or your child. If they see that the learning activity is one you are forced to do and don’t enjoy, they will mimic that. So when you are reading them a bedtime story, building a puzzle or lego, helping them draw a picture – do it with the same enthusiasm you would like them to tackle school work in a few years’ time. Answer all the questions Your toddler will probably hit a stage where they follow you around talking non-stop. It is easy to drown this out (no judgement here) and give a noncommittal nod of the head every now and then. This is the part of your child’s development process that gets them thinking in a critical and exploratory manner. Don’t just encourage it, but engage with it too. Try and really listen to what they are babbling about, give them answers they can understand and ask them questions that will make them think about it even further. It is moments like these where a child’s brain will start getting used to thinking outside of the box. Use games and toys Helping your toddler associate learning new concepts while doing something fun will change their way of thinking as they get older. If you want to help them learn new things or develop new skills, try to do it in a way that makes them feel like it is a game rather than just a learning moment. Whether they become an A grade student or not, the love of learning has more to do with their attitude and effort than the results on their report cards. Remember that learning doesn’t just happen at school but also in everyday moments. We need to try to make sure our children are open to receive those teachable life lessons.

October 19, 2021
Good Night Baby

Let’s Talk about PND

In the weeks leading up to the birth of my daughter, I remember waking multiple times a night due to being uncomfortable and all those bathroom breaks! I was thinking this was my body’s way of preparing me for waking through the night to care for my baby— and would get filled with a sense of excitement and also dread. Although my little one was premature, she was a good sleeper (by newborn standards), I still however never got more than a few hours of sleep at a time. I was physically exhausted, but the emotional roller-coaster was worse. I was constantly anxious, having panic attacks, I was distraught because I felt like my life had been unequivocally changed and that I’d never get it back. I cried every day, but could rarely explain why. I was not the mother she needed, I was not coping, I was failing her, myself and my husband. Why could I not rejoice and marvel at the child I had always longed for? At the time I put this down to the baby blues that I knew was very common after having a baby. But weeks turned into months and the feelings stayed and so did my desperation, I was lost and I did not think I would ever find my way back. I had to reach rock bottom before I realized that I needed help that this was not “normal”. My baby blues had turned into full-blown depression, I knew I had to do something!  So I got help, and it was not easy finding my way back. During my journey, there were a few things that helped me find myself again. Get help: Any kind of depression should be seen like any other illness, for example: diabetes.  No one will ever tell you to just sort yourself out if you were a diabetic and it is the same with depression.  It needs intervention from medical professionals South African Depression and Anxiety Group (sadag.org). Make time for yourself:  relax and take a break from your little one. Do something that makes you feel good. Share what you are feeling:  Having someone just listen to how you are feeling can help you work through how you feel in a safe place. Have a support system:  support will play a big part in recovery make sure they know how you’d like to be supported. Very often it is our instinct to take on everything. Allowing others to help can reduce your stress. Make time for friends and family. Spending time with those you love increases your “feel good” brain chemicals. Make meals a priority. The foods you eat can affect your mood. Keep blood sugars stable and ensure you continue to take your postnatal vitamins. Get out and about: going outside in the fresh air and slowly introducing some exercise. It can give you some perspective and time for your body and brain to have a breather. Join a group for mothers. Chatting to others who are experiencing similar struggles can be reassuring and it is also a good social outlet. Get some sleep: A good night’s sleep. This was one of the biggest factors for me. When I started sleeping more, I notice a huge difference in not only my mood but in my child. At the time I did not realize how sleep and your mood are extremely closely related and mounting evidence suggests that the fewer hours sleep you get, the more likely you are to have a mood disorder like postpartum depression. A recent study shows that only 10% of parents get an average of 7 or more hours of sleep a night! This suggests we are at risk of creating an issue not only for us but for our children who need more sleep than we do! If you suspect how you are feeling is more than just crazy post-baby hormones, please reach out for help, you do not have to continue to struggle in silence, you are not alone and there is help available! By Ohara Kydd – Good Night Consultant

October 19, 2021
Wingu Academy

Self-care tips for teens and young adults

Stress, anxiousness, depression and loneliness are now even more prevalent under teens and young adults than ever before. No one really knows the root cause, but it seems to be a perfect storm of several factors. Some experts believe teens now are being raised with unrealistic expectations. Modern media — and social media — also tells teens they should always feel good and show the “perfect” aspects of their lives. As a result, parents neglect teaching their teens the kind of coping skills they need to survive during chaotic and pressure-filled times. Adding to these complexities is that the adolescent brain is still developing, which means a large centre of functionality within the brain has not fully matured. The parts of the brain responsible for emotion and reward develop first. Anna Sidis, a clinical child psychologist, talks about why self-care is critical for adolescents. “The parts of the brain responsible for understanding the consequences of your behaviour – like the frontal lobes – develop much later, possibly not until 20 or 25,” she explains. “So what that means for adolescents is they’re struggling with really big emotions they haven’t had before. They might be sensitive to emotional stimuli and to nonverbal communication, and have difficulty making decisions because their frontal lobes aren’t yet developed.” This results in teenagers making decisions that don’t make sense, or being overly impulsive and not thinking of long-term consequences of their actions. Suffice it to say, this is why making self-care activities a habit or cultivating an actual self-care practice for teenagers is so important to their overall health and well-being. Tools for Self-Care 1. Carve out time. This is the basic pre-requisite for just about all the ways to take of yourself. You need time, and it has to be part of a daily routine. It’s not always easy to set time aside with everything going on in life, but learning to carve it into your schedule is necessary. 2. Meditation. We’ve come a long way from meditation being considered hocus pocus. Mindful meditation has proven to change the structure and function of the brain, and it’s a fabulous way to promote relaxation while reducing anxiety, depression, and stress. It can be learned in-person with an expert, or online (there are plenty of YouTube instructional videos or smartphone apps). This is something you can do anytime in any place, whenever you need it! 3. Yoga. Yoga and other types of Eastern methods of activity involve stretching, improving flexibility, connecting mind and body – all of which are helpful for stress reduction and wellness, and have been used extensively for thousands of years. The best way to learn Yoga is through a studio, but you can also do so from videos online. 4. Exercise. Working out comes in many forms. There’s training for strength, endurance, and aerobic activity (getting your heart beat up). But simply walking 3 km a day is great exercise – plus it gets you outside! Exercise not only gets you physically fit, but it’s a natural way to help decrease depression and anxiety. 5. Get some sleep. Easier said than done, but sleep deprivation is detrimental to a person’s thinking, and their physical and emotional state. Most young people need eight to nine hours of restful sleep to function at their best. It’s not easy fitting this into a schedule filled with academic, social and recreational activities, but it sure has a big payoff. Try to have as regular a sleep schedule as possible, and you’ll generally find that your “biological clock” will remember when to fall asleep and wake up. 6. Creative expression. Choose a creative outlet to convey your thoughts and feelings. This could be journaling, writing poetry, painting or drawing, doing photography, dancing, or playing music. The key here is channelling your emotional state through an art form. And, don’t strive for perfection! Simply immersing yourself in creative arts can ward off adverse thoughts and feelings. 7. Play with a pet. If you are lucky and can have a pet, there may be few better ways to foster self-care. If you have one, you know what I mean. Cuddling with a pet, taking care of them, and feeling their unconditional love is something we rarely experience on such a consistent basis. 8. Meet and communicate with friends. Research has found that meeting with peers and talking about what’s going on with you — including past events you’re still processing — prevents burnout and promotes well-being. Group connections are so important for fostering resilience and releasing chemicals in the brain that support well-being. And the activities don’t have to be just talking. Things like doing art projects together or gaming all work. And despite the pressure to have huge numbers of “friends” or “followers,” it only takes a few special friends to make a big difference in your life. 9. Appreciate nature. Research has repeatedly shown a link between being outdoors and lower levels of stress, depression and anxiety. Time in nature also helps counteract the mood disturbance caused by too much screen time. 10. Turn off smart phones (at least for part of the day). It’s hard. But really, you don’t need it on constantly, as if it’s stitched to your side. You can take a break, even for just part of the day. There may be some withdrawal or anxiety about not being right there for what you think is critical, but just stop and think. How many texts, Instagram stories or other digital communications do you need to see immediately? Very few! Once you try it, you may actually find it refreshing to have a break from the constant notifications. 11. Do something for someone else. Our brains are wired for giving. In fact, the chemicals released by the brain during the process of giving is far more rewarding than when we receive gifts. 12. Have a DIY Spa Day at Home. Teens with a busy schedule can stop and indulge in self-love by having a DIY spa day at home. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy a spa day, either. All you need are

October 18, 2021
Solarpop

The toy that grows as your child does

Since its introduction into the market, Magformers has won the hearts of parents and children alike. More than just an educational magnetic construction toy, Magformers has grown into a brand parents trust, children love and that grows as your child does.  Just as Magformers start the play journey as 2D flat magnetic shapes and transform into amazing 3D structures, so too Magformers has become a journey of growth and change you can explore with your child as they grow and develop. The award-winning design of the Magformers magnetic construction toy helps to explore and develop children’s creativity. At the core of the product, is the concept of 3D Brain Training – which helps children to develop comprehensive three-dimensional thinking through play. The Magformers family of products has something for children as young as 18 months and evolves and grows with your child to their tween years. The wonderful thing about Magformers is that even adults can’t put them down, with the “click” as the magnets meet being just too alluring to resist. Join us as we explore the Magformers family and find the perfect starting point for your child’s amazing Magformers journey. Sensorimotor Stage – 18+ months  From birth to age 3, 80% of a child’s brain development is formed. This development is accomplished through sensory stimulation activities. This positions the Stock-O range perfectly to aid in early development Magformers Stick-O’s is the chunky magnetic construction toy for little hands. Designed to be super fun, safe and durable, kids can have endless enjoyable hours making all sorts of cute and imaginative creations. It’s also a great introduction to the wonderful world of magnets. The Magformers Stick-O collection uses hidden encased magnets to ensure children’s safety and are “tiny hand approved.” The size and shape of the pieces are made to fit perfectly inside toddlers’ hands or in the hands of children with functional challenges. This feature helps develop fine motor skills while playing. Exploration Stage – Age 3-5  During this phase children passionately exlore their environment. This stimulates their curiosity and develops their symbolic thinking. It is at this stage where children engage in imaginative and pretend play. My First Magformers is the perfect guide to assist children in exploring the world around them. Learn 6 different colours, 2 geometric shapes and all 6 Magformers building techniques. Create towers, houses, and the Magformers Magic Ball. Magformers My First Sets are safety tested from ages 18 months+ allowing your child the best start to learning as soon as possible. The My First Line uses a solid colour scheme, compared to a translucent one, as young children’s eyes are still developing and recognise solid colours easily. The learning content that is included with the My First products is specifically designed to help young children learn their geometric shapes and colours as well as developing essential life skills such as 2D to 3D modelling, problem solving and more. The transition from the My First range to the Magformers Basic Plus range is seamless as all the sets are fully compatible and interchangeable. Independent Behavioural Stage – Age 5-7  It is during this stage that children’s actions are triggered by their self-reliance. This is when children truly come into their own and express and develop their own unique ways. The Magformers Basic Plus and Themed Sets are the perfect outlet for children to explore and express themselves creatively during this stage. Unlock the ultimate playtime with Magformers. Selected sets include play cards to lay ideas flat and then roll, pull-up, transform, fold combine and wall to create exciting 3D ideas. The basic principle is that your creativity and, of course, the amount of fun you have while playing is unlimited. The frequent admiring looks of those who get to see your creations are also limitless.  Concrete Thinking Stage – Age 7-12  During this phase, children are busy developing their observational and analytical skills. Children will be able to think critically about their experiences and reproduce those through play. So, what better time than this to click, connect, create, and explore endless construction possibilities with Magformers House Set. Your little one can build anything they can imagine when they use the Magformers Magnetic Rainbow shapes and the character and accessories to create and decorate houses. Each geometric shape contains magnets that never reject, so you’ll always hear the Magformers click. When playtime is over, use the magnetic power to simply stack and store. Compatible with all Magformers, add the Maggy, Milo, Minibot and Max sets, or any of the Town Sets for extended building fun! At every stage of your child’s development, Magformers will be a trusted partner helping your little ones develop and grow, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself joining in on the addictive Magformers fun.

October 18, 2021
Parenting Hub

How to get your child big school ready

For parents and children, the step up into Grade 1 is a time of excitement and great anxiety.  How do you know if your child is ready for this step? Firstly, parents should be guided by qualified teachers to assess a child’s readiness to begin and take the step up into the start of their formal schooling.   What exactly is school readiness? School readiness is a measure of how prepared a child is to succeed at school and involves two types of readiness: a readiness to learn (which is continuous) and a readiness for school (which is associated with a fixed age). School readiness depends on both emotional maturity and scholastic ability. It is split into different areas and, although these areas are separate, they do interact with and reinforce each other. Children need to be developed across these key five areas. 1. Physical and motor development Gross motor, example running, skipping, standing on one leg. Fine motor, example comfortable using a pair of scissors, successfully doing zips and buttons, is able to use cutlery. Perceptual development, both visual and auditory. Taking care of themselves, example manages to go to the toilet by themselves. 2. Emotional and social development A child who is emotionally well-adjusted has a significantly greater chance of early school success. Gets along with peers, can interact within a group or shows an interest in other children, willing to help a friend. Can express feelings and needs. Can share. Can sit still, example long enough to listen to a story. Can concentrate on a task for a reasonable amount of time. Able to deal with frustration in an acceptable way. 3. Cognitive development Can make independent decisions and follow through. Have ideas of their own. Can follow simple directions or instructions. Shows an interest in learning. 4. Language development (includes literacy, listening, speaking and vocabulary) Should be able to communicate effectively in home language. Be able to sequence (retell a story or a set of events). Identify similarities and differences between objects. 5. Emotional maturity Independence. Reasonable control over emotions. Basic problem-solving skills. Confidence. Shows responsibility. Handles separation well Jenny Trollip, Head of Department at St Martin’s Junior Preparatory Phase in the south of Johannesburg, encourages parents to begin getting their child into the routine in preparation for Grade 1. St Martin’s is well-known for their smaller classes, passionate teachers, individual attention, and holistic education, and Trollip offers the following advice for establishing a routine. Establish a morning routine Your child should follow the same sequence of activities each morning so that it becomes an automatic chain of tasks. This leads to a sense of independence on the part of your child. A suggested morning routine could include the following: wake up, breakfast, ablutions, get dressed, collect school bag and lunch, walk to the car. Set up an evening routine The aim of this routine is to calm your child. They can relax knowing that they are prepared for the next day at school. Ideas for this routine could include taking out the school uniform, bath time, quiet play with no screen time, story time and finally bedtime. A Grade 1 child should be in bed between 19:30 and 20:00. Allocate a homework space Your child will require a place to do their homework where distractions are limited. Have specific stationery available so that they can complete the given tasks properly. Create a homework routine, with a specific time, sequence of activities to be followed and end off with packing the school suitcase. Homework in Grade 1 needs to be supervised by an adult who can create a positive environment. Prepare a healthy snack box Discuss nutritious options and treats with your child. Prepare a menu together. Take into consideration that these snacks will have to sustain your child for at least six hours at school. Communication is key When you child starts Grade 1, make sure that as parents you are on the school App and class Dojo, or whatever communication mechanism is used at the school so that you know what is happening and do not miss out on special days. In addition to establishing a routine, parents can take time to prepare their children for this new phase in their lives by Reading to their child. Teaching their child songs, nursery rhymes and poems. Take your children on excursions to, for example, museums. Make regular opportunities for play-dates. Play games so that your child starts recognising colours, numbers, and letters. Cherish moments spent with your child and enjoy their school journey with them. Grade 1 is exciting, and memories made in this year should be filled with laughter and enjoyment.

October 15, 2021
Prima Baby

Chicco Polly Progres5 highchair

Welcome to the world of stylish baby feeding. The champion of all highchairs is back with the brand new, most versatile option yet – the Polly Progres5. As advanced as a highchair can get, this bold and daring red polka dotted high-fashion baby product is designed with convenience in mind so you can #parentmore as you give them the best possible feeding and weaning experience. Allowing you to start feeding with ease from newborn, the Polly Progres5 grows with your child until they are ready to join their family at the big table. And even then, the Polly can come along. The fully-reclining seat is a first for Chicco highchairs. Bottle feed from newborn and allow the chair to continue supporting as your child grows. The  Polly Progres5 has all the convenience of an everyday highchair with superior adjustability and functionality. 4 recline positions with one-hand adjustment and 8 height positions make it easy to bring growing children up to the table. Snap-on highchair with booster tray includes removable liner and stores on rear legs. The highchair seat easily detaches from frame to create the booster and stool configurations.  When it’s time to grow up the fold-away foot rest swings out of the way to create stool configuration. Highly space-saving, the highchair is only 11.5 inches when folded for storage in between meals. And with an extra padded cushion, the Polly Progres5 is the most comfortable seat in the house. Modes: Baby: Reclining seat mode and fully upright mode for baby feeds. Toddler Booster: Highchair seat detaches from frame to create high-back booster. Big Kid Booster: Zip-off extension panel and fold-away arm rests convert booster to a more portable seat. Youth Stool: Highchair frame converts to height-adjustable stool with snap-on seat. With a 12-month guarantee you can rest assured that the Polly Progres5 is the only highchair you will ever use again. Grab them on special for a limited time at www.shopchicco.co.za for R4499.

October 15, 2021
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