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August 31, 2021
Advice from the experts
The devastating effects of cyberbullying in South Africa
The devastating effects of Cyberbullying in South Africa and how Wingu Academy protects and supports Wingu students. Did you know that South Africa has the fourth highest rate of cyberbullying worldwide according to a global survey by YouGov? The survey found that one out of every five teens fall prey to cyberbullying and 84% of classmates know of someone who have been victimized. Sadly, with the rise of the digital age becoming a necessary part in our lives, it’s no surprise that this form of bullying has become one of the biggest concerns for both parents and students who suffer and have to deal with the devastating, often life-long effects. But what exactly is cyberbullying? Cyberbullying is any form of bullying that takes place online including on platforms like WhatsApp, Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram and gaming chat rooms. Young people today are increasingly exposed to many different tools and apps. Thus, it is very easy to produce videos, memes, manipulated photos, or even simple text messages with degrading comments and name calling. Trolling and cyberstalking of online profiles is also rapidly on the rise. According to the South African College of Applied Psychology victims feel isolated, ashamed, hopeless and depressed wondering if the situation will ever change. They are desperately looking for a way out which often leads to thoughts and attempts of suicide. This form of abuse influences a child’s identity, self-worth and often leads to long term effects like the inability to form meaningful and sustainable relationships. Not to mention trust issues and even mental health issues. Parents often don’t know because the victims don’t tell them. They feel ashamed and don’t want their parents to get involved as it would worsen the abuse. What are the main signs parents should look out for if they suspect that their child is a victim of cyberbullying? If a child’s mood or behavior suddenly changes drastically, from being socially interactive to being depressed, anxious and isolated. If they start hiding their devices and/or no longer allow you access to their social media accounts. If their academic performance drastically decreases. If they avoid any form of social interaction. What can parents do to help and support their children? According to Dr Serahani Symington, Child and Adolescent Counsellor and Play Therapy Specialist, the following approach is recommended. It’s critically important to have an open relationship where your child feels safe to express their feelings, concerns and problems. Don’t overreact and stay calm during the discussion. Don’t tell your child to simply ignore the situation as it’s very real to them. They have the need for the abuse to be acknowledged. Ask your child what their immediate need is. Is it to provide comfort or a solution? Co-create a solution with your child to make them feel safe, secure and empowered to handle the situation. Don’t retaliate. Rather address the issue with the school and not with the bully or his/her parents. Never invite the bully into your home, your child’s safe space, to resolve the issue. Monitor and spot check your child’s devices with the narrative that it’s for their own protection and not because you don’t trust them. Look at the ratings, age-restrictions and if possible, experience the games and apps your child interacts with for yourself to look for possible pitfalls and warning signs that could put your child in danger. How does Wingu Academy protect and support parents and students against cyberbullying? “At Wingu Academy we have a zero-tolerance policy against any form of bullying. Our Wellness Hub offers counselling and support to students and parents. By following a holistic approach of creating a culture of inclusivity and high moral values we teach our students to respect their fellow students,” says Managing Director Ian Strydom. Wingu Academy’s Cyberbullying Policy also offers guidelines to students to protect them. Some of the recommendations include: Do not answer abusive messages but save them and report them to the Student Mentor. Do not delete anything until it has been shown to your parents/carers or a member of staff at Wingu Academy (even if it is upsetting, the material is important evidence which may need to be used later as proof of cyberbullying). Do not give out personal details or contact information without the permission of a parent/guardian (personal data). Be careful who you allow to become a friend online and think about what information you want them to see. Protect your password. Do not share it with anyone else and change it regularly. Always log off from the computer when you have finished or if you leave the computer for any reason. Always put the privacy filters on to the sites you use. Never reply to abusive messages. Never reply to someone you do not know. Always stay in public areas in chat rooms. Article by Melanie Foxcroft from MF Consulting. Mobile: +27 82 650 3414 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mfconsulting.co.za
August 31, 2021
What to know about Covid 19 vaccines and skin reactions
As we all know, our skin is our biggest organ, and our skin is affected by EVERYTHING in life – our lifestyle, what we eat, drink, medication, sun exposure and also when we are sick. With this pandemic, a lot of focus has been on the vaccines, and obviously the main focus is to stop the spread of the virus. This, however, leaves a few questions regarding treatment before and after receiving your vaccine. Guidelines has been given to our industry, as well as to the aesthetic medical industry, on timeframes to make sure adverse reactions do not occur. The main aim of this, is to prevent FURTHER inflammation as this is the main reason why we struggle with skin problems. Inflammation is the umbrella of all problematic skin conditions. Ageing is caused by inflammation, pigmentation, acne, atopic skin conditions like eczema, rosacea and skin sensitivity. These all caused by inflammation of some kind! Now, with the Covid 19 vaccine, we are introducing inflammation into the body therefore it could definitely affect our skins too! It can make the skin super-sensitive, it can dry out the skin, cause severe dehydration, it may cause hyperpigmentation etc. We actually don’t know, but based on what we DO know about inflammation, it is necessary that we know how to treat skin in these times. If you have received your vaccine, or are planning on getting your jab, please make sure to support your skin! This can be done in a number of ways. Q: What should we use on our skins to support our skin against inflammation of any kind? A: We need to use medical grade skincare products and ingredients that are well tolerated by the skin, and specifically growth factors and antioxidants to fight against the inflammation that may be caused in the skin. Hydrating, barrier repair as well as sun protection! This doesn’t mean that you need to change your whole skincare routine or product range at home, you would need to only slot in a product like the AQ Active Serum once a day under your day moisturiser! Q: How long before receiving your vaccine should you introduce these ingredients into your skin care routine, if you are not already using them? A: This is quite an open-ended answer, as some medical specialists say 4 –6 weeks and other say 14 days. I think to be perfectly honest, we should rather be safe than sorry, and try to prepare the skin at least 4 weeks prior to getting your vaccine, as this is how long a regular, healthy cell turnover will take in your epidermis. Q: What about recommendations for aesthetic treatments and medical aesthetic procedures? A: For superficial, mild and non-invasive treatments, 14 days before and 2-3 weeks after getting the vaccine… For your more advanced skin treatments such as micro needling, plasma pen, certain chemical peels, laser and medical aesthetic procedures such as botox, fillers and threads etc: 4 –6 weeks before and after getting your vaccine. Q: What types of treatments are totally safe to have done? A: Focus on anti-inflammatory treatments like Growth Factor induced therapy that we refer to as GFIT treatments. This is where we use the AQ Skin Solution Recovery Serum with different modalities. In this case just an application with LED light for about 30 minutes or a light stamping with 0.5mm depth. Certain chemical peels that have anti-inflammatory properties. Calming, healing and antioxidant-type ingredients plus of course hydration and barrier protection. Q: How long after receiving the vaccine should you keep using these ingredients? A: I think it is hugely important to understand that all of us are different and all of us will react or respond in different ways, therefore I would suggest to keep on using these ingredients on your skin for an extended period of time. Q: What do growth factors do in the skin? A: It is very important to use growth factors at a time like this because AQ growth factors allows your skin to heal itself! It will work differently on each person’s skin because it will assess what needs to be done. Some patients have more inflammation than others, or maybe the vascular system within the skin isn’t functioning properly or it’s affected their collagen production. The growth factors will regulate the cell functions and bring it back to its norm, therefore it will work on any and all skin conditions. It basically regulates the different processes within the skin so that the skin can heal itself correctly and be in its healthiest state. Q: What makes AQ Skin Solutions growth factors different to other growth factors on the market? A: The Human Growth Factors found in AQ Skin Solutions is fibroblast-derived, and then cloned in the lab to react the same way your natural growth factors do. We have a Halal Certificate showing that no genetic material from the donor line is utilized within the formulation. Human growth factors will be easily recognised by the cells, meaning no side effects, no contra indications and it can be used on skin of all ages and all skin types. Other growth factor products are derived from plant extracts or some from bacteria. AQ is one of 5 Human growth factor products worldwide, the only HGF range available in Africa! We use between 150 and 200 different growth factor families within each formulation at optimal combinations and percentages to ensure sufficient communication to the cells. Q: Medical-grade skincare is surprisingly affordable, isn’t it? A: There is a misconception that medical-grade skincare is expensive, but the reality is that investing in it will likely save you money in the long run. While you may have to pay a little more upfront, using medical-grade skincare that is tailored specifically to your concerns means you’ll get the visible results you’ve been seeking. Also, because they are highly concentrated with active ingredients, you only need to use a small amount to get your results. Therefore, medical-grade skincare products
August 31, 2021
Masks and Essential Oils
Grabbing a mask before you leave the house has become second nature these days, almost as important as remembering your keys and wallet! While some people only need their mask when they pop down to the shops, others are required to wear one for most of the day, if their job entails close contact with people. The act of mask wearing is not something we have done all of our lives, and while it might seem normal now, it can still cause discomfort or distress in certain individuals. Poor mental focus, anxiety and headaches are a few symptoms that people report after long periods of mask-wearing, but luckily there are solutions to these problems. While we can’t just stop wearing masks, there are a few natural ways to alleviate negative feelings. One such remedy is the use of essential oils. One or two drops of an essential oil onto your mask can greatly improve your mood and reactions to poor effects from a mask. The array of essential oils have various benefits including the following: Lavender oil to reduce anxiety and fight against any tension you may have. Orange oil for calming down and feeling more at ease. Lemon oil to give you energy for the day. Peppermint oil to relieve headaches and open the lungs. Eucalyptus oil to clear the mind and lungs and open up the sinuses. These oils reach the brain through your smell nerves and act to calm you down and make you feel better, as well as reach the lungs to open them up and relieve difficulty breathing. A drop or two of dilute oil onto your mask will work wonders. If this is too strong, you can add a drop to the side of your face for the same effects. Another method to apply essential oils is that of the mask spray. To create this spray, mix distilled water, and about 10-12 drops of your oils of choice Apply 2-3 light sprays onto your mask and let it dry completely. Once this is done, your mask will have a lovely scent which not only smells good but improves your mental state too! Try these essential oils from SOiL Organic Lavender Oil (Lavandula Angustifolia) 10ml – R100 A must for the first-aid box! A versatile oil, Lavender is renowned for its relaxing and calming properties and its ability to relieve headaches and insomnia. Excellent for all skin types, it is also very effective in the treatment of burns and prevention of scarring. Organic Orange Oil (Citrus Sinensis) 10ml – R30 Warm sweet orange has a fresh and fruity aroma which has a refreshing effect. It is useful in treating dry skins and renewing dull complexions. Organic Lemon Oil (Citrus Limon) 10ml – R40 This lively oil with its refreshing citrus aroma is highly antiseptic making it useful in treating wounds and infections. Also useful in the home to clean and deodorise. Organic Peppermint Oil (Mentha Piperita) 10ml – R60 Peppermint is known for its refreshing and stimulating properties. It is said to aid circulation and treat various digestive upsets. Organic Eucalyptus Oil (Eucalyptus Smithii) 10ml – R30 This oil is very pleasant for use in massage blends and steam inhalations. It helps clear breathing passageways and can protect against colds. It cools the body in summer and protects it in winter. Easy Breathe – R65 Expertly formulated by our certified aromatherapist, this blend of essential oils contains 100% PURE and certifed organic essential oils. The combination of Cajeput, Eucalyptus, Peppermint and Clove essential oils help to control pain and fever, congestion and sinusitis All products available online at www.soil.co.za
August 31, 2021
The Best Jobs for Introverts
Have you ever explored jobs for introverts? We’re guessing that’s not exactly a search term you use in your job hunting efforts. But for every kind of personality, there’s a career path that matches characteristics and meets personal and professional goals. Some people thrive in roles that demand daily interaction with others. But others might find this way too draining. If you’re not exactly an extrovert, it might be hard finding a job that plays to your strengths and leaves you feeling energised at the end of the day. But rest assured, there are plenty of amazing careers for people like you! Understanding the Introvert Personality Before we get to the juicy part of this article and list the best jobs for introverts, it’s worth exploring the ins and outs of the introverted personality. Introverts thrive in solitude. This means that social situations can be exhausting for the introverted professional, often necessitating the need for resting and recharging after extended periods of social interaction. Contrary to popular belief, introverts are not shy. They can be, but introversion is not the same thing as shyness. Introverts can still feel confident and comfortable in the presence of others, but they need to pay attention to preserving and conserving their energy when they’re socialising. Why Are Certain Roles Better Suited for Introverts? The best kind of jobs for introverts are the ones that allow them to work independently. Roles with clear expectations, structure, and opportunity for creativity allow these personality types to thrive in the workplace. Even though every job requires some level of social interaction with others, it doesn’t mean introverts can’t flourish. As long as their employers value work-life balance, the opportunities for recharging when they need it should be sufficient. With that being said, join Adzuna as we explore the best career opportunities for introverted personalities! #1 – Content Marketing Manager Content marketing managers develop and execute the content strategies of marketing teams. The verticals they manage can include social media, video, digital, print, and audio content. Working in this role will require you to have a deep understanding of your target audience to drive brand awareness and engagement with your customers. Even though you might be in charge of managing other team members, it’s still an excellent fit for an introvert because there’s a balance of collaborative and independent work. To get into a content marketing management role, you might need a degree. But many companies are more interested in experience in content development and promotion. If you’re fluent in all things content and have a proven track record, you should be able to get your foot in the door. #2 – Editor If you can take a piece of writing from the idea phase through to the working draft and get it ready for publication, a career in editing might just be your ideal fit. Editors are responsible for making suggestions for writing improvements and correcting any grammatical or spelling errors. Many editors partner with writers and other editorial team members to strategise, but the main task of the editing process is a solitary activity, which is ideal for introverts. If you’re keen on becoming an editor, you need a solid foundation in writing, including narrative, style, structure, and grammar. Many editors start as writers, and the majority of them also have degrees in journalism. If you’ve got a degree in English or communications or any other related field, it should be enough to help you land your dream editing job. #3 – Software Engineer We all have images in our heads of how IT employees lead solitary lives, and when it comes to software engineering, that image isn’t too far off the target. Software engineers develop various types of software, and these professionals are problem solvers of note. After identifying potential problems, they design, test, and build software that solves the problem at hand. Since most software engineering tasks include coding, testing, and fixing bugs, much of the work is solo. But software engineers also need to collaborate with their teams from time to time. To get into this field, you might need a specific degree, but your potential employee might be much more focused on your coding skills, which is why you’ll have to sit through a technical interview as part of the hiring process. #4 – Graphic Designer From logos to marketing materials, product packaging, and digital assets, graphic designers develop a brand’s visual assets. Most graphic designers are experts in various design techniques, but most specialize in a specific area like logo design. As a graphic designer, you can work for a company, a design studio that works with various clients, or as an independent (freelance) contractor. If you fancy a career as a graphic designer, you’ll have to collaborate with clients and other team members, so you’re always clear on what’s expected with every project. But aside from a few meetings here and there, you’ll be free to work independently, which is a win for introverts. The best graphic designers are super creative and have a firm grasp of a variety of design programs. You’ll generally gain these skills and experience through degree programs or online learning platforms. #5 – IT Specialist IT Specialists maintain and manage the internal processes and products of the company they work for. This can include troubleshooting, installing and updating hardware and software, and ensuring that everything within the IT department runs smoothly. IT specialists work with other employees to identify problems and answer all questions related to information technology. But there’s also a lot of solo work at play when managing IT systems and fixing any issues. Most companies require IT specialists to hold an IT degree, but some companies hire on skills and experience. This means that you don’t necessarily need a degree to get your foot in the door. As long as you understand IT systems are experienced in the industry, you’re good to go. #6 – Data Scientist Like many other roles within
August 30, 2021
From Babbling to Talking
Parents are excited by every indication of developmental advance shown by their baby. ‘Look, he’s pushing his head up off the mattress!’ ‘Did you see her grab that rattle and hold on to it?’ These advances may not appear to be ‘great leaps forward,’ but they are. And the advances that perhaps produce the greatest delight in parents are those that offer proof the baby is becoming truly human—he or she is producing sounds that will eventually be shaped into words and used in communication. Nothing is more thrilling for parents, and in no activity are they more involved. Although the human infant is born with the capacity to become a talking—and reading and writing—organism, a great deal of loving care and nurture has to take place before this miracle is achieved. The earliest manifestation of this ability is the babbling that we hear babies doing from 2-3 months of age onward. When you go in to pick her up out of the crib, you hear ‘ahhh’ or ‘oooh.’ Chances are you will either repeat that sound or, in a higher pitch, say something like, ‘I think you’re ready to get up.’ With that response, she will kick and thrash about excitedly—and repeat her sounds. If you don’t say anything back to her when she babbles, or frown as you change her wet diaper, she won’t babble as frequently as she would if you had responded to her sounds. Thus, the first absolute necessity for parents who want to help their children move along the ‘Babbles to Books’ trail is responsivity. It’s so wonderful that, if we respond to our children as infants, they will respond to us. Language development moves along through that reciprocal process. Your talking offers much more than encouragement, of course. It also provides a model of the sounds that register in the baby’s world. Research conducted at different sites over the last 30 years has consistently shown that infants in about the first six months of life can discriminate among all the sounds produced in all languages. But they gradually lose this ability and become unable to distinguish between sounds they don’t hear regularly in their home environments. So modeling is a key function for parents in helping their babies learn to produce the sounds that will mean the most to them in their daily lives. The third key component is stimulation. All children babble, even those born deaf. But without responsivity to their efforts and good models to learn from, infants babble less and less. And, when they cease babbling, they are no longer practicing the complicated movements of the tongue and lips and other parts of our anatomical speech mechanism. Furthermore, their brains then have less opportunity to make the connections needed to relate sounds to other sensory information. But, no matter how much they babble, they still have ahead of them mastery of the technique of converting sounds into real words—real words that stand for real objects and real events. Here is where stimulation is so important. Parents need to label objects and experiences for their pre-verbal infants. ‘Would you like your MILK?’ asks mother, stressing the word ‘milk’ and holding out the bottle before offering it. ‘Look, here comes DADDY. Let’s WAVE to him,’ as she takes the baby’s hand and makes a waving movement. (In fact, a wondrously effective way to comfort a crying infant is to hold him close and walk about the house just ‘naming’ or labeling ordinary objects: ‘Feel the WALL; the WINDOW seems cold; the DRAPES are soft.’ Word games, such as ‘Pat-a-cake’ and ‘So Big’ are wonderful during this transition period (from babbles to words), as they allow the baby to do something physically as part of the language game. And don’t overlook reading to your baby as an important technique for providing stimulation. Some people think babies are too young to respond to books, but, if so, they’ve never read the right kind of book to an infant. Simple books, with plenty of pictures and few words to a page, are marvelous. Your local librarian will help you choose several excellent ones. Or, make up your own: snapshots from a family vacation put in plastic holders, with just a few words printed per page, work beautifully, as can clippings from magazines and catalogs. By the time children reach two years of age, a weekly trip to the library should be a must for all children whose parents are truly concerned with fostering language development. Toys are a big help along this trail. Precisely because young children love toys and engage in activities with them during much of their waking time, they are important words to verbalize and get into the system. And talking with toddlers about toys provides an opportunity to bring verbs—much harder to master than nouns—into the conversation. ‘BRING me your truck.’ ‘TAKE the dolly to her bed.’ ‘Do you want to RIDE your horse?’ Children need to have verbs labeled as much as they do nouns. The best-laid plans for guiding children will not be successful, however, unless they are delivered in an atmosphere of love and nurture. If you get upset when your 9-month-old still won’t imitate the gestures for Pat-a-cake after half a dozen sessions and say, ‘You’re going to get it this time—or else,’ forget it. He won’t do it. Sometimes, just about the only language children hear is either criticism or a command. And that kind of language world is not conducive to having a child want to talk. There is a story told about Frederick the Great, King of Prussia, in the early 18th Century. (The story may be apocryphal, but I’ve seen it in many child development texts over the years.) He wanted to know what language children would speak if they never heard language, his theory being that they would speak Hebrew, the language of the Old Testament. To test his theory, he established a foundling home for a number of abandoned children. The caregivers were ordered to
August 30, 2021
Performing in a pandemic: Bonitas announces healthy annual results
Bonitas Medical Fund reported its financial results for 2020, with significantly bolstered reserves of R6.1 billion. Luke Woodhouse, Chief Financial Officer of Bonitas says, ‘The Fund, which has 40 years’ experience in the medical aid industry, had 333 141 principal members and total beneficiaries of 710 157 as of 31 December 2020. This accounts for 14% of the open scheme market, representing 8.3% of total market share.’ Bonitas ended 2020 with an unprecedented surplus of R1.7 billion (2019: R186.1 million). The surplus is the largest ever reported by the Fund and is largely attributable to the suppressed utilisation of non-COVID related claims expenditure. ‘The surplus was also positively impacted by the effective implementation of our strategic pillars, proactive risk management and prudent Board decisions in a unique, but volatile year,’ says Woodhouse. ’Bonitas’s medium-term objective is to sustain solvency levels above the statutory minimum of 25% and to make meaningful, strategic decisions about current reserves in the interests of our members. This while facing significant uncertainty, especially in terms of the cost and prolonged impact of COVID-19, non-COVID-19 utilisation and roll-out of vaccines.’ 2020 performance at a glance: R3 billion gross healthcare result (2019: R1.3 billion) Reserves reaching R6.1 billion (2019: R4.3 billion) A net surplus of R1.7 billion (2019: R186.1 million) Solvency ratio of 32.7% (2019: 24.9%) R51.7 gross recoveries from Fraud, Waste and Abuse (2019: R41.2 million) Strategic purchasing yielded hospital negotiation savings of R346 million (2019: R370.4 million). This is lower than the previous year, in absolute terms, due to lower outflows as a result of COVID-19, including cancellation of elective procedures and a reduction in trauma and major medical related costs An investment income of R316.6 million (2019: R420.1 million) that exceeded CPI Net claims decreased by 4.7% to R14.3 billion (2019: increased by 8.9% to R15.0 billion) Healthcare cost savings initiatives realised savings of R221m – the most significant of these were achieved through the Scriptpharm chronic medicine capitation model 83.0 claims loss ratio (%) (2019: 92.3) The Investment Committee was particularly active given the volatility in equity markets and the market crash that occurred in March 2020. The active management and continued strategic asset allocation approach contributed to a turnaround in investment returns, growing the investment portfolio (excluding cash and cash equivalents) from R5.01 billion in December 2019 to R7.14 billion at the end of December 2020 – delivering an overall return of 4.16%. Although COVID-19 induced severe capacity constraints in the healthcare system, the hiatus in all other areas of healthcare decelerated a long-term trend towards overuse and medical cost inflation. This occurred against an economic backdrop of market volatility, record low interest rates, rising unemployment and declining incomes. The significant surplus capacity was systemic within the healthcare industry. Investments and economic growth In addition to investment volatility, South Africa’s sovereign credit rating was downgraded to sub-investment grade status with a negative outlook by the Moody’s and Fitch ratings agencies. According to the IMF, South Africa’s real GDP contracted by 8% in 2020, but is expected to show 3% growth in 2021, before slowing again. Claims’ expenditure While some categories such as in-hospital admissions experienced a major decline, with a high number of elective surgeries cancelled, there was a marked increase in medicine claims and costs. Under servicing could, however, lead to higher downstream healthcare costs over the long term. The combination of these factors led to lower claims in an environment where Bonitas actively continued to manage costs, promote Managed Care and supervise investment performance. As opposed to other years the key cost drivers were COVID-19 related, including: Hospital admissions, investment in PPE, pathology test costs, home-based care, healthcare support to members in the workplace, medication and deferred elective surgeries. Hospital negotiations This year we participated in the first collective negotiation process on hospital tariffs with five other medical schemes administered by Medscheme. This followed the finding by the HMI that collective negotiations would not contravene the Competition Act. The common tariff resulted in a 3.1% saving in 2021 terms and these savings could exceed R200 million in 2021. In addition, hospital costs and medical specialist costs reduced by 5.4% (2019: increased by 8.9%) and 5.3% (2019: increased by 10.0%) respectively on a per-member-per-month basis. Total claims per-member-per-month declined by 8.7% (2019: increased by 8.1%). Strategic purchasing Cumulative savings since the start of the strategic partnership arrangement with hospital groups in 2017 was R1.247 billion. Growth and retention To retain members under significant financial stress due to COVID-19, members received assistance in line with CMS regulations This had a negligible impact on performance but assisted in retention of members during the worst of the pandemic. COVID-19 also resulted in a marked increase in queries about joining a medical fund as people realised the need for quality healthcare. We experienced a cumulative net decline in membership of 5 610 members (1.7%) in 2020, which compares well against a significant contraction in GDP and increased unemployment. Despite the challenges experienced in 2020, Bonitas acquired 37 814 new members (2019: 50 680). Bonitas also kept increases as low as possible without jeopardising the sustainability of the Fund. There was a competitive weighted average contribution increase of 4.6% – 1.61% higher than CPI whereas, under normal circumstances, contribution increases are set at a minimum of CPI +3,5%. Day hospitals We identified day hospital use as a viable option to improve efficiency and reduce costs. There is minimal disruption to members, speedier recovery times, less risk of infection. Home-based care During COVID-19, home-based care received renewed interest and focus. Not only is it a cost saver but studies have shown that patients recover faster in their comfort of their own homes. Efficiency Discounted Options (EDOs) The four EDOS introduced have been a success – the EDOs cover over 74 000 lives and the principal members who join are around 10 years younger than the average Bonitas member. Members on these plans use network healthcare providers and pay around 15% less for the same benefits. Virtual
August 30, 2021
Do Children Need Multi-Vitamin Supplements?
In an ideal world, children’s supplements would not be necessary as most of their nutrients would come from the food they consume on a daily basis, such as fruit, vegetables, grains and dairy. Today, with busy schedules and fussy eaters, often our children fail to eat enough of the right foods to obtain the necessary amount of nutrients per day. Given the reality of time-crunched parents, those well-rounded, home-cooked meals aren’t always possible. As such, multivitamins are becoming a non-negotiable requirement to maintain our children’s general wellbeing. NutriPure’s Multivitamin Complete is formulated as a soft gummy that makes taking vitamins quick and easy. NutriPure Vitamins are perfect for children of 3 years and older and provide an easy and delicious solution to replenish essential vitamins and minerals daily. Vitamins, taken properly, won’t do any harm as long as they don’t take the place of a healthy diet, which all children need for good growth. Always follow the “rainbow diet” that includes a colourful variety of fruits and vegetables to ensure your children get the nutrients they need and give them a multivitamin as a bonus! Many children struggle with medical conditions, allergies or aversions to certain foods, and miss out on the essential nutrients that well-balanced meals would provide. Very often, children who are lactose intolerant, have inflammatory bowel syndrome or gluten intolerances would have a deficit of vitamins such as A, D and K, and would benefit greatly from a multivitamin to replenish these nutrients. Each NutriPure MultiVitamin Complete contains 11 Essential Vitamins & Minerals: Vitamin D, B6, B12, C, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid and Niacin that helps to metabolise carbohydrates, fats and proteins and are factors in the maintenance of good health (be sure to talk with your child’s doctor before starting a supplement if your child is on medication). NutriPure’s gummy vitamins are a quick and painless solution to taking supplements and are tasty too. As a parent you can confidently give NutriPure gummy vitamins to the whole family, yes, they are available in adults variants too. All variants are 100% vegan friendly, have no sugar coating, are fruit pectin based and contain no artificial colourants, flavours, sweeteners, GMO ingredients or preservatives. NUTRIPURE RANGE FOR KIDS: MULTIVITAMIN Complete (60) – R109.95 NutriPure Multivitamin Complete gummies have been specially formulated into a soft and chewy treat, making vitamins fun and easy for children 3 years and older. Multivitamins help promote the normal functioning of a child’s immune system and promote general well-being. Each NutriPure Multivitamin Complete contains 11 essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin D, B6, B12, C, biotin, pantothenic acid, and niacin. These help to metabolise carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, an outcome key to the maintenance of good health. VITAMIN C (60) – R109.95 Research shows that in the winter months, children are at a higher risk of colds and flu due to the weakening of their immune systems. NutriPure Vitamin C is a tasty and effective solution to help strengthen their immunity during these periods. Vitamin C also helps children maintain a functioning nervous system, a normal energy-yielding metabolism, and reduces fatigue. One NutriPure gummy contains 80mg of vitamin C which is 100% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA). PRO BIOTICS (60) – R153.95 At any age, a balanced intestinal micro-flora is important to keep the body in healthy working order. NutriPure Probiotics are formulated with Bifidobacterium infantis and lactobacillus rhamnosus, two scientifically tested bacteria strains. Each NutriPure gummy contains 1 billion live cultures to help your child boost their daily intake of these beneficial bacteria. They also provide immune support when children are taking antibiotics. IMMUNE SUPPORT + (60) – R109.95 NutriPure Immune Support + contains a unique blend of 6 essential vitamins and minerals that all contribute to the normal functioning of the immune system. Vitamin C, B6, and B12 help to metabolise carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, an outcome key to the maintenance of good health. VITAMIN D Gummies (60) – R109.95 Helps maintain strong bones and teeth and is known to aid in the fight against viruses. Extra soft so suitable for even the fussiest eaters. Vitamin D also contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system, the maintenance of normal muscle function, and the normal absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus. NUTRIPURE RANGE FOR ADULTS MULTIVITAMIN Complete (60) – R134.95 NutriPure Multivitamin Complete has been specially formulated for adults. Each NutriPure Multivitamin gummy contains a balanced dosage of 12 essential vitamins and minerals: vitamin D, B6, B12, C, biotin, pantothenic acid, and niacin. These help to metabolise carbohydrates, fats and proteins, an outcome key to the maintenance of good health. IMMUNE SUPPORT – Vitamins C, D, B6 & B12 (60) – R134.95 NutriPure Immune Support has been carefully formulated with 6 essential vitamins and minerals: vitamin C, D, B6, B12, zinc, and selenium are vital for strong immunity. VITAMIN D – High Strength (60) – R134.95 Helps maintain strong bones and teeth and is known to aid in the fight against viruses. Vitamin D also contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system, the maintenance of normal muscle function, and the normal absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus. APPLE CIDER VINEGAR – Gummies (60) – R159.95 Boost your immune system by taking great-tasting apple cider vinegar gummies. Nutritional highlights: 500mg of apple cider vinegar per serving for immune support and metabolism, vitamin C for immune health, vitamin B6 for energy-yielding metabolism, and vitamin C & B6 to reduce fatigue. A delicious array of vitamins and minerals for every occasion. Stock up, eat up, and stay healthy. Stockist: Dis-Chem & Yooper – limited items available on Takealot, PNP, Spar and Clicks Website: www.nutripure.co.za
August 30, 2021
Go on… make the Switch!
If you are anything like me, you like when a product works seamlessly from one device to another. And while this may be a small feature, it really can make life a little easier. Imagine a life where you can ask your child to immediately disconnect their console from the TV because your favourite show is starting and there are no ooohhhsss or ahhhhh’s because he can continue playing? This is what makes the Nintendo Switch an easy Switch to make. One of the core features of the Nintendo Switch is being able to continue playing no matter what! Your child will be able to switch from the TV and then comfortably to the hand-held console, even to splitting the console up and playing with a friend. Yup that’s right… the Joy-Con (controller) can be split so that friends can play too. By turning your Joy-Con into two units, either party is able to play with either side or with motion control games, one is able to use the Joy-Con much like a Wii remote. However, if you want to purchase another Joy-Con you certainly can. We found a large variety are available in the Nintendo Online Store which makes the experience even more personal. So how many ways can you play? The Nintendo Switch is a “hybrid” console that can be used at home on a TV, and also as a portable console. #1 TV Mode Your gaming experience can start on your television when connected via an HDMI cable. The unique configuration allows the Nintendo Switch to adopt a number of different forms. From either splitting the controller up into two separate Joy-Cons for multi-player games or keep it connected to the grip and play alone. #2 Tabletop Mode With the Nintendo Switch built-in LCD screen one is able to either play hand held or you can detach the Joy-Con Controllers, open the stand at the back of the screen and place it on a flat surface. Perfect for when you do not have a television available. #3 Handheld Mode Easily reattach the Joy-Cons to the unit and play hand held and when you are done simply place the Nintendo Switch in the docking unit to charge…. It has never been easier. The Joy-Con controllers snap to the sides of the tablet making the device a hand-held unit. Accessories and Games? With accessories galore from themed Joy-Cons, cases, HORIPAD and Racing Wheels, you can make your gaming experience everything you ever hoped it would be. With the Nintendo e-Shop, one is able to purchase multiplayer games as well as Free-to-start Games. With all your favourites available in their online store, you could be bouncing around with Super Mario or taking on a Pokemon in no time! Online Membership starts at R52 per month and there is a family membership available for up to 8 members at R459 for 12 months. This ensures that all your gaming data is safely stored to the cloud so that all those achievements unlocked are never lost. The Nintendo Switch can be connected online for a greater Nintendo Experience or download the Mobile App. The Nintendo Switch Online App is designed to enhance your online gaming experience on the Nintendo Switch. You can view your stats, or chat to friends while racing through the streets in your game. The App is available in both the Google Play and Apple App Stores. Cool Features: The unit is easy to transport and with a longer life battery of between 3 and 4 hours, your child will be entertained during load shedding or even a long car trip. Can’t find your Joy-Con? No problem, activate the search for controller feature and you will locate them in no time. The Nintendo Switch is a touch screen. Adjust the menu to dark mode… easier on the eyes for sure! See how long a player has played for. We all had so much fun playing Super Paper Mario, thank you Nintendo for helping us make the switch! This unit is certainly one of the more affordable gaming consoles at a retail price of R7999. You can purchase online at the Nintendo Online Store or at participating retailers. Included in the box: 2x Joy-Cons (left and right) with built-in rechargeable battery Nintendo Switch console Nintendo Switch AC adapter Nintendo Switch dock A Joy-Con grip Joy-Con strap High speed HDMI cable Hand held remote Paper Mario- The Origami king Nintendo’s Paper Mario – The Origami King – is a fun game for individuals aged seven and above. The game centres around Mario and his new friend Olivia. They are tasked with stopping Olivia’s brother, Olly, who is the Origami King. Olly has folded Princess Peach and many other characters into origami shapes. The only exception is the toads, which Mario and Olivia save throughout the game. The main objective of Mario and Olivia is to remove various coloured streamers that enclose Princess Peach’s Castle and which will lead them to Olly. Each streamer level provides a fun new task for the player to go through. As they go through each level, they are able to unlock Vellumentals, which are a group of god-like creatures found in their own Vellumental Shrines and Temples. To gain the ability to use Vellumentals, players need to defeat each of them throughout the game on each different streamer level. A Bibliofold will eventually be revealed to the player. This contains instructions for Olivia on origami folding. This will allow Olivia to Transform into a Vellumental through the corresponding magic circle. The magic circle will allow Mario to also use the elemental powers during a Boss battle and even waive battles where the enemy has a magic circle above its head. As well as collecting toads through the game, Mario and Olivia also collect confetti. They are tasked with repairing the broken world by using the confetti that they collect throughout the game. Once each streamer level is complete the confetti intake of the bag will increase. The increase
August 27, 2021
3Sixty reasons why herbal extracts are becoming the preferred choice to treat women’s health issues
The Salome range, launched in 2020 by South African pharmaceutical company 3Sixty Biomedicine, addresses common women’s health issues. The current product range offering over the counter treatment options is based on herbal extracts to help manage heavy menstrual bleeding, menstrual pain, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and infertility linked to PCOS. Later in 2021 the range is looking to expand its offering to include capsules that treat the symptoms commonly associated with menopause. Even prior to the presence of COVID-19, there was a growing trend by consumers to explore more organic alternatives to synthetic medical treatments. Now it’s become more important than ever for consumers to know what they’re putting into their bodies, which has been the driving force over the past two years for 3Sixty Biomedicine’s product development of the Salome range. Salome Polycos assists with the management of symptoms commonly associated with PCOS by helping to decrease testosterone levels as well as 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. Case studies have shown that these natural extracts are instrumental in helping manage the regulation of ovarian function in PCOS patients. Dysmenorrhea, the technical term for extreme period pain, is also a common women’s health issue that impacts up to 20% of women with their 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 (abnormally heavy flow and prolonged bleeding). 3Sixty Biomedicine created their Salome HMB product to help alleviate this problem. The product also draws on herbal extracts from Capsella Bursa-Pastoris, a medicinal plant also sometimes 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). The full Salome range is available online at Takealot.com and www.3Sixtybiomedicine.co.za, as well as at most pharmacies nationwide and you can even ask for the range from your Clicks pharmacist. Read more about this exciting female health range at https://3sixtybiomedicine.co.za/salome/ and then enter our competition for a chance to win a stylish Salome Hamper consisting of a custom designed Lou Harvey cosmetic bag, Salome Menstrual Pain and Salome Heavy Menstrual Bleeding packs. We believe #yourjourneymatters, so don’t let anything get in your way with the help of the Salome range!
August 27, 2021
Take Your Hair Pick from Our Line-up of Three Multi-award Winning Hairbrush Adapted to Suit Every Hair Type
Ever since the Original — the multi-award winning hairbrush that launched the brand, Tangle Teezer has amassed a growing number of devoted fans and Tangle Teezer siblings. It has been referred to as the magic hairbrush with superior detangling powers. Nobody can quite put their finger on why these hairbrushes work so well, they just do! THE POWER’S IN THE TEETH Well now here’s the answer, the unique and innovative patented two tiered teeth which can’t be found on any other hairbrush in the world! Tangle Teezer’s innovative technology has been adapted across each hairbrush to suit every hair type. Detangling and smoothing without breakage or damage, whatever Tangle Teezer you choose, The Power’s in the Teeth! Thanks to this ground-breaking technology, their prescriptive detangling hairbrushes quickly and gently detangle all hair types and textures with minimum damage, leaving hair soft and shiny. HOW THE TEETH WORK The long teeth detangle, removing tangles, reducing breakage and leaving hair healthier-looking; while the short teeth smooth the cuticle, leaving the hair glossy and frizz-free. It’s as simple as that! From their innovative two-tiered teeth technology and iconic ergonomic palm shaped design, coupled with their cool, bold and fun on-trend colours, Tangle Teezer stands out from the crowd! THE ORIGINAL The Original Tangle Teezer detangling hairbrush isn’t a multi-award winning hairbrush for nothing! A cult classic loved by everyone, it’s ideal for regular hair types, but particularly well-suited to regular or flyaway locks. Detangling wet or dry hair with its two-tiered regular-flex teeth, which glide through the hair with no pulling and tugging, the Original delivers a pain-free detangling experience, leaving tresses tangle-free and super-smooth with increased shine. Boasting a variety of popping hues, the Original is available in coral/lilac, pink/mauve and red/pink which makes for one big beautiful colour clash! THICK & CURLY Adapted for thick, curly, textured and afro hair, Tangle Teezer’s Thick & Curly detangling hairbrush delivers increased confidence in detangling challenging hair types! Using the innovative two-tiered firm-flex teeth – both longer and stronger than the Original, it gently detangles wet or dry hair quickly and easily. The result is less time spent on detangling without any tugging or pulling, minimizing breakage, whilst leaving curls totally tangle-free, healthier looking and super-defined with plenty of bounce. Available in a delightful azure blue and lilac fondant, the Thick & Curly detangling hairbrush will soon be available in a beautiful mint green/lilac fondant colour combo! FINE & FRAGILE The perfect detangling hairbrush for sensitive hair, take the fear out of brushing with Tangle Teezer’s much-loved Fine & Fragile detangling hairbrush. Aware of the numerous reasons someone may have delicate hair, Tangle Teezer was inspired to reinvent its Original design to cater for those who have colour-treated, fine or fragile hair. For those worried about hair loss, there’s no need to be extra careful. Detangling wet or dry hair with its two-tiered soft-flex teeth – they’re 30% softer than The Original – it glides from root to tip with 85% less tugging and up to 5 x less breakage for tangle-free hair. The most recent colour additions to the Fine & Fragile family include; coral/blue, blue/coral, and lilac/mint. Whatever your hair texture, Tangle Teezer has every strand covered for fabulous and healthier hair! All three detangling hairbrushes retail for (RRP R255.00) and are available to purchase at Sorbet Dry Bar and Candy & Co.
August 26, 2021
Careers That Don’t Require Qualifications
It seems like every career out there requires you to have a degree or some sort of qualifications. But in our current economic climate, finances don’t allow all of us to enroll in university degree programs. Regardless of your situation, various career options allow you to get a foot in the door and climb the ladder of success. Some even come with on-the-job training or apprenticeship options to help you gain qualifications while you’re working! To help you get started, Adzuna has put together a list of great job options that don’t require you to have a degree. Virtual Assistant VA’s handle everything and anything from scheduling meetings to booking travel and accommodation. It’s also a great remote working opportunity and one that you can do on a freelance basis. You don’t need much experience to start working as a virtual assistant, but you do need a stable (and fast) internet connection and familiarity with the latest tech like Zoom and Slack. If you enjoy working under minimal supervision and have a knack for supporting others, this might be the ideal job for you! Sales Advisor If you’ve got a knack for sales and you’re friendly and engaging, why not consider a role as a sales advisor? Some companies might require you to have experience in sales before bringing you on board. But there are also various entry-level roles for newbie sales advisors. If you don’t have any qualifications or a lot of experience, start by getting your foot in the door with an entry-level position. Legal Secretary Legal secretaries do legal research, prepare court forms, type legal documents, and handle the schedules of the lawyers they work for. This is an excellent option for anyone that wants to get into the law sector without actually working in a courtroom. To land a role as a legal secretary, you’ll need to be very organised and reliable. Although some roles require extensive experience and qualifications, it’s possible to find entry-level positions as well. Customer Service Agent If you love working with people, a customer service representative role might be your ideal fit. Customer service agents often undergo training to gain a deeper insight into their company’s policy. But aside from basic training, you don’t necessarily need any other qualifications. As long as you’re a strong communicator, friendly, and have a positive team-oriented attitude, you should be good to go. Social Media Manager Everyone uses social media these days, and this includes companies. Since the coronavirus pandemic outbreak, brands have been forced to maximise their online presence, and to do this, they need to make the most of social platforms like Facebook and Instagram. But companies need savvy managers to keep their social media presence in tip-top shape. In most cases, this job can be done from home and on a freelance basis. If you’re smart about it, you can manage social accounts for various companies simultaneously, which allows you to earn great money. Admin Assistant Admin assistants oversee documentation, email correspondence, and phone calls. They might also take minutes in meetings and help with company projects. If you’re unsure of the type of role you want to perform within a company, this can be a great starting point since you’ll have daily contact with just about every department. After gaining some experience, you can always make your way up within the company. Conclusion While the saying “get a degree, get a job” still rings true for many career avenues, it’s not essential for every sector and role. As you can see, there are quite a few great career opportunities out there that don’t require you to have an abundance of qualifications or experience. The majority of entry-level roles require nothing more than soft skills and a strong desire to learn and grow within the company. And if you’re lucky, you’ll find a job that offers in-house training and accreditation that’ll help you build on your list of qualifications.
August 26, 2021
How Can a Second Language Help in My Career or My Child’s Future Career?
Even within our 4 walls at home – the world has become large and accessible. It is no longer the reality that everyone speaks our language or everyone is from our background. The world is changing and progressing and we are more aware of globalization now more than ever. With technology developing as it is – we can be on one corner of the world communicating and doing business with someone in separate countries and different time zones. This means that many businesses are able to stretch out from those in their immediate proximity and the target audience is now international! How does an additional language help me in my career? Most simply – you have a skill that others around you do not have. Not only that – you will be a lot harder to replace. The most important thing about having an additional language is to think of your intention. There is no reason to think that learning Thai for example will help advance your career if you do not work for a Thai company, you aren’t planning on doing business with Thai businesses, or you aren’t planning on immigrating to Thailand (this is not saying that if you have a passion for Thai you shouldn’t learn it! Opportunity may come knocking in many ways!). You should think about what your career is – what your dream company is – and if that company is a foreign country, a foreign country, or if you know they are looking to do business with foreign companies. Immediately this will set you out from other candidates who do not have this additional skill that could seriously help the company with many of their foreign liaisons. What level do I need to be for it to be useful in my career? This is more difficult to answer – most likely most companies won’t really need someone who is just conversational in a language (though the thought is always appreciated!) however – being completely native probably also isn’t extremely needed. The sweet spot would be at a high intermediate level. It would also be good (if possible) to know what sort of company you are working for. If you are working in an import or exports company, knowing vocabulary and the sort of business questions and relations required to do this job would be sort of essential knowledge to know that otherwise wouldn’t be done in a course unless explicitly requested. Let your teacher know this is the sort of field you are going into and would like to do as much vocabulary and grammar etc associated with the field you are planning to work in. What about qualifications? Even if you do not know the field you are going into or what to know – or even if you are learning a language just for the joy of it – You should get some sort of certification behind you to prove you are actually the level you say you are in your application. It can be very difficult to prove to potential employers that you are able to do what you say you are able to do especially if they do not speak the language themselves to “test” you. How can this be done? Well, most simply is doing it either at school or if your tertiary education allows you to also study it. The main thing to remember here is that these qualifications may differ from international standards and may not hold the same weight as some internationally recognised qualifications. Alternatively – Fluent Panda offers courses where you can study towards an internationally recognised exam hosted by various embassies. These courses will prepare you for these international exams. The exam is externally marked and upon passing an exam, you will be issued with a certificate that is INTERNTAIONALLY recognised and certified by the various embassies. The test is also usually the same around the world so you will be tested at an international level. These tests are based on different curriculums as each country follows a different curriculum. Europe follows CEFR whilst places like Japan have their own grading system known as the JLPT. Usually – there are multiple exams to take (Beginner, intermediate, advanced etc). to prove your level of fluency. How do these exams help me? Most notably – these exams open the door of opportunity to different countries. By passing one of these exams – you immediately have an internationally recognised qualification that is recognised WORLDWIDE – not just in one or two countries. It is an indisputable certification to prove your level in any given language. Furthermore – the certification does not expire and can be valid throughout your life without worry of needing to renew at any point once received. These exams are also sometimes required when applying for passports when wanting to immigrate. Including this qualification with your passport submission is sometimes required by embassies for them to have evidence of your ability in the national language of the country you are immigrating to. These qualifications and skills do not only assist in your career but opens many international doors for general options throughout life. How to get started? Contact Fluent Panda for their course times and outlines. State that you are interested in taking the exam and we will help providing you with all relevant curriculum material as well as a teacher that is familiar with the exam in question and understands the different levels that have to be achieved. Fluent Panda has over 32 languages on offer – guaranteeing something for everyone and helping pave the way for future careers!
August 25, 2021
Delicious Vitamins – A treat for daily maintenance
In today’s world, more people are in need of food supplements to support their diets, but do not enjoy taking pills. That’s why Nutripure fruity chews make vitamins easy and painless to take. The delicious tasting Nutripure fruity chews are specially formulated with natural fruit pectin for adults and kids. Here are a few reasons why fruity chew vitamins are so popular: They are easy to take, especially for adults and children who struggle to swallow tablets. They are very convenient, you don’t need to have a glass of water with you, you can take them anytime and anywhere. They are easily digested. They are delicious and come in a variety of fruity flavours. Gelatine Free No Sugar Coating Vegan Gluten Free No Artificial Colours or Sweeteners No Preservatives No GMO Ingredients FOR KIDS: MULTI VITAMIN Complete (60) – R109.95 NutriPure Multi-vitamin Complete have been specially formulated into a soft and chewy treat, making vitamins fun and easy for children 3 years and older. Multivitamins contribute to the normal function of children’s immune systems and the normal function of many other systems in the body contributing to general wellbeing. Each NutriPure MultiVitamin Complete contains 11 Essential Vitamins & Minerals: Vitamin D, B6, B12, C, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid and Niacin help to metabolise carbohydrates, fats and proteins and are factors in the maintenance of good health. VITAMIN C (60) – R109.95 Contributes to the normal function of the immune system* Research shows that in the winter months children are at a higher risk of colds and flu due to the decline in their immune system. NutiPure Vitamin C is the tasty and effective solution to compensate for the deficiency of this vitamin and to contribute to the normal function of the immune system. Vitamin C also contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system, normal energy- yielding metabolism and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. One Nutipure bear contains 80mg of Vitamin C which is 100% of the EC RDA. PRO BIOTICS (60) – R153.95 With 1 billion live friendly bacteria. At any age, a balanced intestinal micro-flora is highly important in keeping the body in healthy working order. The healthy bacterial micro-flora in the gut is a key element for overall well-being. NutriPure Probiotics is formulated with Bifidobacterium infantis & Lactobacillus rhamnosus, two scientifically tested bacteria strains. Each Nutripure bear contains 1 billion live cultures to help your child boost his daily culture intake. Ideal to use every day. Important to take when children are on antibiotics. IMMUNE SUPPORT + (60) – R109.95 A factor in the maintenance of good health* NutriPure Immune Support + contains a unique blend of 6 essential vitamins and minerals that all contribute to the normal function of the immune system. Vitamin C, B6 and B12 help to metabolise carbohydrates, fats and proteins and are factors in the maintenance of good health. VITAMIN D Gummies (60) – R109.95 Helps maintain strong bones and teeth plus is great for the immune system and is known to aid in the fight against viruses. Extra soft so suitable for even the fussiest eaters. Vitamin D contributes to: The normal function of the immune system, the maintenance of normal bones and teeth, the maintenance of normal muscle function, normal absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus. FOR ADULTS MULTI VITAMIN Complete (60) – R134.95 NutriPure Multi vitamin Complete has been specially formulated for adults. Each NutriPure Multivitamin chew contains a balanced dosage of 12 essential vitamins and minerals: Vitamin D, B6, B12, C, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid and Niacin help to metabolise carbohydrates, fats and proteins and are factors in the maintenance of good health. IMMUNE SUPPORT – Vitamins C, D, B6 & B12 (60) – R134.95 NutriPure Immune Support has been carefully formulated with 6 essential vitamins and minerals: Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Zinc and Selenium are all a factor in the maintenance of good health. VITAMIN D – High Strength (60) – R109.95 Helps maintain strong bones and teeth plus is great for the immune system and is known to aid in the fight against viruses. Vitamin D contributes to: the normal function of the immune system, the maintenance of normal bones and teeth, the maintenance of normal muscle function and the normal absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus APPLE CIDER VINEGAR – Gummies (60) – R159.95 A great natural Immune Booster. At last taking apple cider vinegar has been made easy and great tasting. Nutritional highlights: 500mg of Apple Cider Vinegar per serving for immune support and metabolism, Vitamin C for immune health, Vitamin B6 for energy yielding metabolism and Vitamin C & B6 to reduce tiredness and fatigue. A delicious array of vitamins and minerals for every occasion. There is now no excuse not to stock up and maintain your health.
August 25, 2021
Chicco Akita Fix Air 123 Car Seat
We get asked by a lot of parents – what do we do when our baby outgrows the infant car seat that came with our Travel system? What is the best option to keep baby safe? When will we know to “upgrade” to the next level of car seat? In an ideal world, parents will only need one homologated seat that can be used from birth till your child is 12 years of age – but this is not always possible. Often, parents use previously purchased travel systems in the case of a second or third child joining the family or are using gifted items from loving friends and family. Once your baby reaches the age of approximately 9 months, they will have outgrown their infant car seat also known as group 0+ (unless you have a fully homologated option – we have a few in our range that you can research) and it will be time to transition them into a group 1/2/3 seat to ensure they are kept safe in the car. INTRODUCING THE CHICCO AKITA FIX AIR 123 CAR SEAT The Chicco Akita Fix Air 123 is a comfortable and safe solution for children that have grown out of their Gro 0+ travel system car seat and now require a front-facing car seat. Installed either with Isofix connectors or your vehicles 3-point seat belt, this seat can be used from 9 months till 12 years of age. It is imperative that the belts and headrest of the seat be perfectly adapted to your child’s size – there is no one size fits all when it comes to safety after all – but this is simply done as the Chicco Akita Fix can be adjusted simultaneously with just one movement. A seat reducer provides a supportive and comfortable cushion for smaller children. Once your child reaches the age of 4, they are considered tall enough to be buckled up with your car’s own seat belt. The built-in belt system of the child car seat can be dismantled easily – that way, the Chicco Akita Fix can be transformed into a group 2/3 child car seat in no time at all. To ensure the best possible positioning of the lap belt, an additional belt positioner forms part of this versatile seat. Equipped with a side impact protection system for maximum protection, the comfy and elegant Chicco Akita Fix will convince the whole family and remain a loyal companion – for many years. Get yours from any participating baby outlet for R5499.99. For more information head to www.chicco.co.za
August 24, 2021
Tantalising the Toddler’s Taste Buds
Did you know that you can influence your child’s taste buds from when you are pregnant? Starting much earlier than we realised, your baby gulps amniotic fluid in your womb and this healthy eating journey continues during breastfeeding, too. While these opportunities may have passed by the time you have a baby and toddler, it is good to know that there are still practical ways to help the not-so-exploratory little tastebuds discover the wonderful and varied world of flavours. The Spice of Life Gone are the days of boring, bland, and tasteless foods for babies and toddlers. Just like adults, our little ones, too, appreciate flavourful food. It is important that, soon after starting your solid journey, you introduce a range of flavours such as fresh herbs (e.g. mint, basil, thyme, etc.), mixed dried herbs, cinnamon, cumin, curry, garlic, cocoa powder, and the like. Sugar-free nut butter also packs a flavour punch, but always check for allergies first. Stir into a warm bowl of oats in winter or offer up on a slice of wholewheat toast as a snack. Luckily for busy moms, Squish 100% fruit and veg purees come in a range of delicious flavours so exploring many different flavours from baby, toddler and up will be easy for your little one with Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees. Mealtime = Fun Time Children eat with their eyes. Make mealtimes fun, interesting and appealing. Call in the help of your child’s favourite superhero or princess with colourful kiddie-friendly cups, plates, utensils, placemats, and lunch boxes. Cut and arrange assorted coloured fruit and vegetables into interesting shapes and funny faces. Use cookie cutters on wholegrain sandwiches or arrange mashed sweet potato into fun shapes. Squish 100% fruit and veg purees come in a convenient pouch which is safe for your little one to explore eating on their own. Squish is a convenient, tasty meal or a snack, or for older kids, try it on the side for dipping – they’re sure to love it. Game On As any parent can attest, it is a daily struggle to get children to eat their fruits and vegetables. Fruit and vegetables are some of nature’s most perfect foods: rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytonutrients and fibre, highly nutritious for preventing illness and disease and overall health. To encourage variety, print a picture of a rainbow and place on the fridge or in your child’s room. Encourage your child to choose a fruit or veggie each day from a different colour of the rainbow. For example, tomatoes and watermelon are red, berries and beetroot are purple, and mangoes and carrots are orange Rewards systems like using star charts to mark off how many fruit and vegetables are eaten are also a fun game for your child. Place somewhere visible and offer your child a reward when a goal is reached, such as going to the park or an extra story at night before bed. Another fun way to get your child to eat fruit and veg is by offering them Squish 100% fruit and veg purees and pressed 100% fruit and veg juices. The convenient pouches are well-loved amongst mommies and are perfect for babies from the first introduction of solids, right through the weaning process – from babies to toddlers and beyond. And the 100% fruit and veg pressed juices are deliciously refreshing and a good way to get babies, toddlers and young kids to enjoy fruit and veg. Get Green Fingers Children love being outside and getting their hands dirty. Use this to your advantage and build a vegetable garden. If you do not have a garden, windowsills and vertical/hanging gardens are good alternatives. With your child, plant various herbs and vegetables, and, when ready to be harvested, pick the vegetable with your toddler. Little Chef Older toddlers and young children will enjoy being in the kitchen. Let your children watch you prepare family meals and talk to them about what you are cooking. Let them help you set the table, stir ingredients in plastic bowls, and older children can help chop soft vegetables like baby marrow with a butter knife. One at a Time As much as we want to encourage a variety of flavours, it is important to introduce new foods and previously disliked foods one at a time. Children are naturally wary of anything unfamiliar. Always offer up new food with well-liked food to help increase your child’s acceptance of the food. Remember, it can take up to 15 exposures of food before your child likes it, so keep being patient and keep trying. And if all else fails, there is always the Squish 100% fruit and veg puree range with enough delicious flavours to please even the fussiest of eaters.
August 24, 2021
Power Tips on Creating the Perfect Homeschool Environment
With the changes that we have all faced over the last seventeen months, now more than ever before, parents find themselves having to manage their children’s virtual and or home-based education. Despite the many benefits of homeschooling, at-home learning can be challenging for both parents and students. Challenges like creating order and structure in a home learning environment can lead to frustration and even cause students to fall behind on assignments or learning objectives. Your child’s curriculum has many moving parts—and if you have more than one child, that complexity only increases. Teaching your children at home can be an immensely rewarding experience. One of the reasons that many parents choose to homeschool their kids is that they believe they can provide a better education for their children than a public or private school. To provide an outstanding education for your children, you will need to provide an environment that fosters learning. We can help you to keep your kids on track and successfully navigate the ins and outs of independent learning with the following tips. Create a designated learning space While it can be tempting to set up shop at the dining room table or on the couch, these areas aren’t the most conducive to learning. Creating a dedicated learning space can make it easier for children to concentrate on schoolwork. Consider a room that is large and open that has natural light. This dedicated space should be used for schoolwork and no outside activities. It would be best if this room is used solely for schooling otherwise may find that your children lose focus if they have distractions around them. Not all kids like to sit in a chair all day, so perhaps offer different seating options in the room to make the space more comfortable for those who want to sit on the floor or a beanbag chair. You could also offer yoga balls for deskwork. Follow a daily schedule Homeschooling brings a wonderful level of flexibility and spontaneity to a child’s education. However, without a clear structure, it can be easy to get distracted and go off track. Kids thrive when they have a basic structure and routine. Creating a daily schedule will be hugely beneficial in giving your child direction and structure. You can always adapt this schedule as you go along. Pick a system that works for you. Your schedule can be as detailed or as relaxed as you want. The key is having some set routine and structure for you and your child to follow so you can both stay on track. Use Technology Technology plays a considerable role in education, and access to it will make homeschooling that much easier. It enables you to become more productive, efficient, and better communicate with other people. It is, therefore, essential to include the necessities in your homeschool environment. A computer, laptop or tablet, digital calendars, and task managers will be extremely helpful in managing time and progress. Time trackers and cloud-based folders like Dropbox or Google Drive will also be helpful. Information is at our fingertips with internet access so your child will have the ability to research topics and collect information with ease. Map out the school year ahead of time Map out your school year to track progress on your goals and plan out big projects. Breaking up big goals and projects into smaller steps makes them more manageable and you’re less likely to let details fall through the cracks. Setting goals and visualizing your plans can help you stay organized and see your progress at a glance, which makes targets more reachable and less overwhelming. Take learning beyond the classroom One of the best parts of homeschooling, and one of its greatest advantages, is the flexibility to learn outside a traditional classroom setting. Make time for these opportunities in your daily schedule and keep an open mind. Outdoor spaces are excellent learning places for exploring new skills, meeting new people, and experiencing through play. Always look for learning opportunities beyond the classroom and be open-minded about the benefit of learning through a practical example. Collaborate with other homeschoolers It is important to know that you are not in this alone, there are rich and diverse homeschool communities all around the world. It is important and beneficial to connect with other homeschoolers in your area or online to collaborate and share resources. This will not only make the schooling process easier for you, but it will also enrich your child’s experience and expand their educational opportunities in and out of your home. Communicating with other homeschoolers also provides important social opportunities for your child. Leave Time for Breaks It is difficult to work for extended times without a break. When your kids start to get restless or hungry it is a good idea to schedule regular breaks. Morning snack breaks and afternoon exercise breaks allow your kids to get a good balance of work and chill time. scheduling them into your day. While some children might require frequent short breaks, others might like only one or two longer breaks. Read your children and let them help create your schedule in this matter. Learning need not be boring, and neither does your homeschool environment. Always consider what your kids like, who they are, and what are their interests, ideas, distractions, and sources of inspiration to come up with a suitable learning space.
August 23, 2021
Micro-holidaying in the Kia Pegas
Armed with the new Kia Pegas, Calvin Fisher folded his squad of five humans aboard and set off on an overnight escape Pandemics, unrest, lockdowns and load-shedding… 2021 has truly lived up to the old Hollywood adage that sequels seldom improve upon the original. Memories of a world only slightly on fire in 2020 fresh in our minds, I surveyed my family of five, war-torn and weather-beaten, before deciding upon a night of respite. They say change is as good as a holiday but I say a change of scenery is exactly a holiday. So I took to the Internet to browse for an escape. My quest was to find us a night away far from the northern suburbs of Cape Town we call home and found a gem in the coastal town of Fish Hoek just 45 km away. What inspired this? Perhaps the aforementioned factors, but more likely the fact that in my possession I had the keys to a brand-new Kia Pegas compact sedan with a full tank of 95-octane. A sedan man goes on holiday I’m 43 years old, so naturally I grew up on the back seat of a sedan. My formative years were spent on sunny drives to Simons Town, False Bay and, if we were feeling particularly adventurous, as far Durban. The time was spent arguing with my siblings, passing out from beach fatigue and waking up with sticky fingers and cheeks. Despite a glut of SUVs, the idea of loading up a three-box saloon, albeit a compact one, still appeals to me. So there we were, my macro-sized brood loading up a micro-ish sedan about to set off on a micro holiday and that meant folding and piling an array of overnight bags, clothing, snacks and board games into the ample 475-litre boot. Sadly, this meant saying ‘see you tomorrow’ to our Staffies, who had already made themselves at home on the rubberized boot inlay. With our luggage easily gobbled up, it is worth having a conversation about space. The Kia Pegas competes in price with the likes of the Honda Amaze and Suzuki Dezire, but those are tiny things based upon even tinier hatchbacks. In reality, the dimensions of the Pegas, at 4.3 metres long, is more akin to the likes of the VW Polo and Ford Figo sedans, but with more cohesive styling and dimensions. In fact, bugger cohesion, I think the styling is great – sharp and purposeful and with all the design cues intact that make Kia cars so desirable. It closely resembles the Rio Sedan and retains that larger-sedan feel thanks to copious legroom fore and aft derived from a longer wheelbase. It’s capacious, with the three large sprogs comfortably seated behind my wife and I, also quite comfy in the front. A lot can happen in 45 km I’m lucky to report that they all share my choice in music so thanks to Android Auto, we were soon blasting along to ‘70s rock ballads, as one does on a road trip. Well, my household does. Also a perk of the infotainment system’s standard screen-mirroring is the fact that it perfectly integrates with my smartphone’s navigation so there we were, enjoying a well-laid out route to Fish Hoek on the 7-inch touchscreen, with the added benefit of voice recognition for calling out our favourite tracks. Apparently, my propensity for Fleetwood Mac songs was something that needed to be addressed – but that’s for a separate column. And, besides, there was always the steering wheel controls if I felt like overriding their choices. The helm is covered in leather, the seats in artificial leather for easy cleaning because look, I don’t make a habit of eating in cars, but this was a holiday ‘thang’. And the best bagel in the Cape was on our route. A discussion on power The ‘EX’ trim Pegas I had under me is powered by a 1.4 MPI engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission. This makes for mild performance to the tune of 69 kW and 132 Nm, good for a max speed of 170 km/h, but we won’t be trying to achieve that today – rather, taking in the view of False Bay. Now, I realise that if one lives at high altitude, the Reef air might stifle that performance but here at the coast the little four-pot revved cleanly. Gear changes were sharp and satisfying, and the overall demeanour and ride were unfussy, and honest. Like a good car should do. A delightful climax The driveway to our accommodation was steep and winding, the little engine making a strong case for itself, and impressing its driver one final time as it effortlessly dispatched the climb. The boot was easily unloaded and I was left to take in the gorgeous sunset views from Simons Town to Kalk Bay, the smells of the sea air and the good vibes that came with escaping a tedious time with my favourite people. Here’s the thing: my last trip on the back seat of my dad’s sedan was a terribly long time ago. He passed away when I was just 14 years old. This might sound corny, but nothing makes me feel closer to him than my own adventures with my wife and sons. And I’m truly grateful for that. It seems that sedans are still ripe for making memories.
August 23, 2021
How family holidays benefit your kids
Whilst the idea of going on holiday with children can be somewhat daunting, the benefits of spending time together exploring a new destination far outweigh any niggling negatives. “In fact,” Shaun Lamont, Managing Director of First Group Hotels and Resorts, says, “Holidaying as a family gives your children the opportunity to fill their lives with incredible new adventures. And, in addition to giving your kids the gift of making magical, lasting memories with the people they love, it also offers a wealth of benefits that will help shape who your kids will become as adults.” He adds that some of his own best childhood memories are of time spent away with his family. “Family holidays are valued by children, both in the moment and decades later too. I don’t remember what my parents gave me for my 13th birthday, but I can recall, with fondness, a trip we took to Cape Town. In a world where material items are so easily accumulated and tossed aside, there really is no greater gift you can give your children.” And studies confirm this, a research study conducted by the Family Holiday Association in the United Kingdom found that 49% of those surveyed said that their happiest memory was of their family vacation. The study also showed that one-third of the people still clearly remembered their vacations. Shaun shares four additional ways that travelling as a family will have a massive impact on your children: 1. Strengthens Bonds When you go on a family holiday, you leave all the worries of your everyday life behind. Away from the everyday distractions and long working hours, your family will be able to spend uninterrupted, quality time together. Even the simplest experiences such as a meal, can become a cherished memory that brings you closer together. 2. Every day is a learning experience It’s a fact that kids absorb knowledge more effectively through experiential learning, so whether you’re exploring a museum, hiking up a mountain, fishing on the shoreline or visiting a nature reserve, travel brings education to life. This helps your child to be more open minded, adaptable to changing situations and flexible in their habits, providing hands-on problem-solving capabilities they will carry with them throughout life. Visiting new places and doing new things will also ignite your child’s imagination and will even encourage them to try new things and say ‘yes’ to new experiences (yes moms, even new foods! 3. Making new friends No matter where you are, kids will find other kids to play with. South Africa has 11 official languages and yet even when children meet someone they can’t converse with, it doesn’t matter, because play is a universal language. All it takes is a smile and a laugh to break barriers. This intercultural communication will help your child build relationships with new friends. And, in a world that’s dominated by screens, these interpersonal life skills are invaluable as a child grows and develops their sense of self. 4. It teaches adaptability and responsibility Breaking from routine can be a little scary for some mums, but it gives your child the opportunity to adapt to new surroundings and circumstances. Allow them to get involved in the decision making – from what restaurant to choose to what place to visit. If they are a little older, let them be the map navigator. If they are younger, get them to pack their own bags (it doesn’t have to be perfect). You will be teaching them invaluable skills that will stand them in good stead as they grow up. “You won’t ever get the ‘perfect trip’ with picture-perfect postcard memories, so don’t plan for perfection. Instead focus on making magical, lasting memories with your children that will unite you for the rest of your lives.” Photo credit: Family photo created by rawpixel.com – www.freepik.com
August 23, 2021
Most common makeup mistakes and how to avoid them
Have you ever wondered if your day-to-day makeup routine consists of beauty horrors? From wrong blending techniques to clumpy eyelashes. There is a very good chance that your daily makeup routine could consist of beauty blunders, and you may not even know it. Below are three common makeup mistakes to avoid at all costs: 1.Applying makeup in the wrong lighting Hold on! Before applying anything to your face, have a look at the lighting around you. It is best to use natural light as much as possible when applying makeup. Natural sunlight provides the most accurate reflection of your face in a mirror, making it easier to neatly apply the makeup. If natural light is not an option a warm white LED light, which most closely resembles the outside, can be used instead. 2.Applying makeup before moisturising How do you prep your skin? Applying makeup on dry or oily skin can cause flakiness and prevents the makeup from setting correctly on the skin. A great skincare routine can prevent acne and allows your skin to stay hydrated and healthy when applying products on it. Make sure your face is correctly cleansed and moisturised daily. When applying makeup, it is best to use a moisturiser that can double down as a primer to smoothen the skin and keep the makeup in place. Using serums are also always great to incorporate into your skincare routine. CATRICE has some great serums that do different things. There is a Hydro plumping serum with hyaluronic acid which is great for hydration & the skin elasticity. Pore minimizing serum with niacinamide which is great for shrinking pores. Glow serum with vitamin C which is great to brighten up tired and dull looking skin. 3.Wrong foundation shade Blend! Blend! Blend! When purchasing foundation, you can test whether you have purchased the correct foundation shade by applying it to your jawline rather than your arm for the most accurate result. The correct foundation shade smoothly disappears onto the skin while blending and will not look like an extra layer of skin when applying. Straying away from your favourite day-to-day makeup routine can be strenuous, however, avoiding these common beauty errors makes applying makeup 100% more fun! How to Winter proof your makeup The rainy season is upon us, and if you find yourself outside without an umbrella your full face of makeup will suffer as well. That is, unless you take a few extra steps in your makeup process to avoid the smudging that occurs when your face is drenched. 1.Start with a primer Setting your foundation with a good primer sets your face for success throughout the day. A primer will not only make the application of your makeup smoother, but it will also help it last longer by acting as a barrier to prevent foundation, concealer, bronzer, blush, and highlighter from penetrating too much into the skin. Try the CATRICE Tensational 10 in 1 Primer. 2.Use a makeup sponge When applying foundation, CC creams, or BB creams, a damp beauty blender will help buff product into your skin for a longer-lasting look. Try the essence makeup & baking sponge. 3.Utilise the baking technique Use a setting powder and apply a little to your face with the straight end of a beauty brush, leaving it on for a few minutes, then gently wiping it off with a wider brush if you want a long-lasting look. Try the CATRICE Nude Illusion Loose Powder. It has blurring properties which really helps to set the makeup and give it a flawless finish. 4.Use a setting spray Setting spray can be used to increase the lifespan of your makeup look as it helps to add hydration to the skin and refresh lived-in makeup. Try the CATRICE Shake, Fix & Glow Setting Spray. 5.Lock Your Lashes Applying a lash primer before using waterproof mascara will turn any formula into a tear-proof force. Try the essence lash primer. Now, not even a downpour can stop you from looking fabulous! Celebrity Makeup Artist Reveals Top 10 Favourite CATRICE Products Whether you are walking in store or shopping online to pick up a concealer or mascara it is easy to become lost in the variety of options and it’s something every makeup addict has experienced. There is no way to make a definitive list of the best makeup products, but there is a way to get a better idea of what the greatest options are, so we have asked celebrity makeup artist, La’eeqa Yunus for her top ten favourite CATRICE products, and here they are: 1.Pro Neon Earth Slim Eyeshadow Palette 010 I love how versatile this palette is with all the warm brown shades that can be used all year round. 2.Glam & Doll False Lashes Mascara Waterproof 010 Black I love the silicone wand & the staying power of this mascara. No racoon eyes for me. 3.Matt Pro Ink Non-Transfer Liquid Lipstick 090 This Is My Statement It is my favourite because it is mask proof and the deepest red which makes my teeth look extra white. Choosing a red with a blue undertone will always make your teeth look whiter. 4.Volumizing Lip Booster 150 Everyone’s Nude I love a good nude gloss. Apply on the cupids bow & centre of the lips for pout. 5.Kohl Kajal 140 Chocwaves This pencil great for creating a subtle sultry smokey eye. 6.More Than Glow Highlighter 010 Super pigmented and a great addition to your makeup routine. 7. 3 Steps to Contour Palette 010 Such an amazing palette to contour your face & add definition. 8.Blush Box 025 A lovely nude peach shade to warm up the face. I always like to apply blush to the apples of my cheeks & then run the brush across the nose, forehead & chin area. 9.Full Satin Nude Lipstick 040 The perfect nude lipstick. So comfortable on the lips & a shade that can be worn all year round. 10.Shake, Fix & Glow Setting Spray I love that this setting
August 23, 2021
NEW – FLOWER MAGIC FROM MAVALA
A virus has turned fashion codes on their heads. Isolation and social distancing have created new energies and paved the way to an irresistible burst of imagination and improvisation, leading designers to explore new worlds of creation: livestreamed fashion shows, Instagram releases, artful videos, … Fashion is reinvented and gives birth to a fiery blooming of vibrant and flowery colours, a bold and beautiful bunch of optimism. The Spring-Summer 2021 colour trends respond to this urgent need for a joyful palette of colours full of freshness and comfort, able to give us energy and the strength to move forward. Passion and fantasy express themselves in flowery, sunny motifs, vivid red and orange shades, incandescent or sweet rose nuances: it will definitely be a cheerful and liberating season. The 2021 shades are a real treat for the eyes, an exciting feast of magical buds and petals. The FLOWER MAGIC Color’s collection of MAVALA, with its bright, luminous and resolutely optimistic red-and-rose-coloured variation of shades, reveals the floral magic: Faro, an ardent red, true bloom of force and energy Mandalay, a blazing pink, dazzling embodiment of the joy of living Pondicherry,a shining and invigorating coral cultivating good mood Kingston, an incandescent marigold, saturated with sunlight Cartagena, a vibrant fuchsia, sparkling blossom of optimism Lugano,a flamboyant red, quintessence of passion Price R105.00 and available online at www.mavala.co.za
August 20, 2021
Caring for Baby
The following information is to be used as a guide to and at the discretion of the end-user and should not replace a doctor’s opinion. Circumcision care Newborn circumcision is a surgery that removes the loose skin (foreskin) that covers the end of a baby boy’s penis. It may be done for various reasons and usually heals with 7-10 days. Follow the care instructions you were given by your baby’s doctor. Often times they will recommend that you use a small amount of petroleum jelly on the site at diaper changes to prevent irritation. Contact your baby’s doctor if you see blood or pus around the circumcision or if you smell an odour coming from the site. Myths about newborns The following are common myths about newborns: Myth: Don’t touch their “soft spots” – Truth: Known as the fontanels, these areas are a thick protective membrane, not your baby’s brain, so if you happen to touch them gently nothing bad will happen; as with all of your baby, handle that area with gentle loving care. Myth: Baby girls don’t have periods – Truth: Baby girls may have a “mini period” within the first few weeks of life which is the result of the stimulation of their uterus by Mom’s high estrogen levels. If you ever have questions about what’s happening with your baby, contact your doctor. Myth: Babies don’t get acne – Truth: Some newborns will develop acne due to circulating hormones from their mother between 2 weeks and 2 months of age; you don’t need acne creams, just cleanse the area gently. Myth: Babies have flat chests – Truth: Some babies may temporarily have swollen breasts due to their mothers circulating hormones; this can happen to boys and girls. Myth: Sneezing must mean my baby has a cold – Truth: Newborns have tiny noses and often have some congestion, so they may sneeze a lot at first; if they have thick, coloured mucus and are sneezing a lot then they may be developing a cold. Never hesitate to contact your doctor if you are worried about what’s going on with your baby. No question is ever “dumb” if you are worried. Bathing your newborn Your baby doesn’t need a full bath every day, only 3-4 times a week. When giving them a full bath make sure the water is warm, but not hot, by testing the temperature with your elbow – if it’s too hot for your elbow, it’s too hot for your baby. Use mild bath soap made specifically for babies – harsh soaps may dry and irritate their skin. Always keep one hand on the baby while they are in the bathwater. There are some parts of your baby that will need to be washed with mild soap every day, especially their face, chin, neck and bottom. Do not use soap on their belly button (navel) or on a circumcision until it’s healed. Make sure the room you are in to bathe your baby is warm and free of drafts. Every baby is different so don’t hesitate to talk with your baby’s doctor if you have any questions about caring for your newborn. Healthy skin for newborns You don’t need to use lotion or powder on your baby unless it’s been recommended by their doctor. Don’t use fabric softener or bleach on their clothes as these can irritate their skin. Use mild detergent to wash their clothes, making sure to wash new clothing before you put it on the baby. Be careful not to overdress your baby – if you are comfortable in a t-shirt and shorts, your baby will be fine in a t-shirt or short sleeved onesie and a diaper. Diaper care for your newborn Periodically check your baby’s diaper to see if it’s wet or soiled. Change their diaper whenever one becomes wet or soiled. When changing your baby’s diaper, wash their bottom with mild soap and warm water or use disposable baby wipes. Be sure to wash your hands each time you finish changing a diaper. Additional tips for care of newborn For mouth care, wipe you baby’s gums daily with a clean damp washcloth or an infant toothbrush. To prevent scratches, keep your baby’s finger and toenails cut short. Remember that newborns sleep a lot – usually between 16-18 hours a day. Make sure to schedule your baby’s first check-up as recommended by their doctor – it’s usually recommended between 2-4 weeks of age. Umbilical cord care Do not place the baby in bath water until after the umbilical cord stump has fallen off. Keep the umbilical cord stump clean and dry – if it becomes soiled you can clean it with a cotton ball, mild soap and water. Umbilical cord stumps usually fall off about 2-4 weeks after birth – contact your baby’s doctor if this doesn’t happen. If the umbilical cord stump turns red around the base, bleeds, develops coloured drainage or a bad odour contact your baby’s doctor right away since it could be a sign of an infection. Contact your baby’s doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your baby’s umbilical cord stump. Teething pain relief The following information is to be used as a guide to and at the discretion of the end-user and should not replace a doctor’s opinion. To help soothe the pain from teething give your baby a teething ring, a wet washcloth cooled down in the refrigerator, or feed him/her cold foods such as applesauce or yogurt. You can also talk to your doctor about giving your baby acetaminophen (Tylenol) to ease the pain.
August 20, 2021
NutriPure Gummy Vitamins and Supplements
Taking gummy vitamins as a kid is a fun experience because they look, taste, and feel like gummy sweets. When vitamins are similar to their favourite treat, children take them willingly! This is one of the many benefits of NutriPure’s gummy vitamins. While gummy vitamins are usually seen as a remedy for children, there’s absolutely no reason why adults can’t enjoy them too. In addition to children’s vitamins and supplements, NutriPure now offers a full range of adult gummy supplements. There’s no need to dread your tablet box each morning – taking vitamins is tasty and enjoyable with NutriPure. Many of us lack the varied and balanced diet key to a healthy lifestyle. While supplements should not be seen as a replacement for eating and living well, they can provide support when we need it most. NutriPure gummies are vegan, gluten free, and are not sugar coated. They are also free of GMO ingredients, preservatives, and artificial sweeteners and colourants. There are certain groups of people who may struggle to reach their optimal nutrient intake. Vegans, pregnant women, athletes, the elderly, picky eaters, and those following special diets may need help in getting the nutrients they need. In these cases, taking supplements is beneficial for overall health and well-being. NutriPure gummies get their great taste from a natural fruit pectin base. They are also convenient to take as you don’t need water. You can chew and swallow them in a few seconds, without having to worry about them getting stuck in your throat. NutriPure supplements are available in assorted variants. Whether you’re in need of immune support, a boost to your metabolism, or support for your general well-being, NutriPure has a vitamin for you. Once you’ve tried NutriPure, you’ll never forget to take your vitamins again. FOR KIDS: MULTIVITAMIN Complete (60) – R109.95 NutriPure Multivitamin Complete gummies have been specially formulated into a soft and chewy treat, making vitamins fun and easy for children 3 years and older. Multivitamins help promote the normal functioning of a child’s immune system and promote general well-being. Each NutriPure Multivitamin Complete contains 11 essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin D, B6, B12, C, biotin, pantothenic acid, and niacin. These help to metabolise carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, an outcome key to the maintenance of good health. VITAMIN C (60) – R109.95 Research shows that in the winter months, children are at a higher risk of colds and flu due to the weakening of their immune systems. NutriPure Vitamin C is a tasty and effective solution to help strengthen their immunity during these periods. Vitamin C also helps children maintain a functioning nervous system, a normal energy-yielding metabolism, and reduces fatigue. One NutriPure gummy contains 80mg of vitamin C which is 100% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA). PRO BIOTICS (60) – R153.95 At any age, a balanced intestinal micro-flora is important to keep the body in healthy working order. NutriPure Probiotics are formulated with Bifidobacterium infantis and lactobacillus rhamnosus, two scientifically tested bacteria strains. Each NutriPure gummy contains 1 billion live cultures to help your child boost their daily intake of these beneficial bacteria. They also provide immune support when children are taking antibiotics. IMMUNE SUPPORT + (60) – R109.95 NutriPure Immune Support + contains a unique blend of 6 essential vitamins and minerals that all contribute to the normal functioning of the immune system. Vitamin C, B6, and B12 help to metabolise carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, an outcome key to the maintenance of good health. VITAMIN D Gummies (60) – R109.95 Helps maintain strong bones and teeth and is known to aid in the fight against viruses. Extra soft so suitable for even the fussiest eaters. Vitamin D also contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system, the maintenance of normal muscle function, and the normal absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus. FOR ADULTS MULTIVITAMIN Complete (60) – R134.95 NutriPure Multivitamin Complete has been specially formulated for adults. Each NutriPure Multivitamin gummy contains a balanced dosage of 12 essential vitamins and minerals: vitamin D, B6, B12, C, biotin, pantothenic acid, and niacin. These help to metabolise carbohydrates, fats and proteins, an outcome key to the maintenance of good health. IMMUNE SUPPORT – Vitamins C, D, B6 & B12 (60) – R134.95 NutriPure Immune Support has been carefully formulated with 6 essential vitamins and minerals: vitamin C, D, B6, B12, zinc, and selenium are vital for strong immunity. VITAMIN D – High Strength (60) – R134.95 Helps maintain strong bones and teeth and is known to aid in the fight against viruses. Vitamin D also contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system, the maintenance of normal muscle function, and the normal absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus. APPLE CIDER VINEGAR – Gummies (60) – R159.95 Boost your immune system by taking great-tasting apple cider vinegar gummies. Nutritional highlights: 500mg of apple cider vinegar per serving for immune support and metabolism, vitamin C for immune health, vitamin B6 for energy-yielding metabolism, and vitamin C & B6 to reduce fatigue. A delicious array of vitamins and minerals for every occasion. Stock up, eat up, and stay healthy. Stockist: Dis-Chem & Yooper – limited items available on Takealot, PNP, Spar and Clicks www.nutripure.co.za
August 20, 2021
Winter makeup tips for glowing skin and striking eyes
South African summers can bring about harsh weather, and going from extreme heat to icy temperatures, dry air and rain in winter, can wreak havoc on our skin. When winter hits, it’s time to adjust your skincare and makeup routine to accommodate the cold, the wind, the rain and the effects of indoor heating. While there are some pretty standard makeup tips you can follow all year round, one thing is for certain – if you don’t apply and wear your makeup cleverly during the colder months, it can draw attention to dryness, dullness and flakiness (all of which are prevalent in winter!). This winter, our focus is on dewy, glowy skin (yes, this is totally possible to achieve in the heart of winter!) and – because our protective masks aren’t going anywhere – a focus on the eyes. Here’s how to get glowing skin and striking eyes this winter: Prep your canvas You should be applying moisturiser every morning, but if you’ve been skimping, now is the time to pick up the pace. Moisturised skin wears foundation much better, as it provides a hydrated base (which helps with the glow) and a smoother canvas to work on. ZERO’s Day Cream (R399.00) and Night Cream (R399.00) offers intense nourishment and moisturisation in a plant-based, gentle formula. Because your skin likely needs all the hydration it can get, a hydrating primer is your new best friend. We recommend wet n wild Prime Focus Primer Serum (R149.95). This lightweight, ultra-hydrating water-based primer serum refines skin for longer-lasting makeup application, allowing your foundation to glide on effortlessly for a luminous, flawless finish. *Tip: Save your matte primers for summer – in winter you’ll need all the help you can get to create radiance! Avoid powder formulas Powder foundations can make dry skins look dull, and are best saved for the summer months when your skin is more likely to get oily. Matte formulations can highlight flakiness if your skin is dry. So, for winter, select a foundation with a dewy formulation, like wet n wild’s Photo Focus Dewy Foundation (R119.95). Silky and creamy, coverage is buildable from medium to full, and it easily transitions from day to night wear. Ideal for normal to dry skin types, this moisturising formula blends seamlessly, blurs imperfections and helps minimise the appearance of pores for a perfectly smooth, dewy finish. We recommend always applying foundation with a good quality makeup brush, to ensure it blends seamlessly into the skin. The newly-launched Real Techniques The Flawless Base Set (R499.99) contains everything you need for flawless foundation application: four brushes and an added bonus brush cup for your convenience (including the Square Foundation Brush, Buffing Brush, Contour Brush, Detailer Brush and Brush Cup). The Square Foundation Brush is densely packed and unique cut to build custom coverage with liquid foundation – our top product for applying liquid foundation! If you find blending easier with a sponge, try the Real Techniques Sponge Duo Set (R219.99). Boasting flat edges for high definition contouring around the eyes and nose, a rounded side for easy blending on the forehead, cheeks and chin and precision tip for blemish and imperfection coverage, these are the only sponges you’ll use this season. Use highlighter Yes, you can totally pull off highlighter in winter! In fact, it’s one of the best ways add a faux glow to your complexion. Select a highlighter with a pearlescent finish for noticeable glow. We recommend wet n wild’s Megaglo Highlighting Powder (R109.95) to perfectly accent your features. Master false lashes False lashes are the quickest and most effective item to vamp up your makeup and draw attention to your eyes, but lots of women struggle with application. Enter the brand new Kiss Magnetic Lashes: With no glue, no adhesive and no hassle, the secret behind these miracle lashes is its game-changing Magnetic Liner and double strength magnets embedded into each lash. As easy as it sounds, this game-changing product takes the hassle out of false lashes. Simply draw a line along your lash line using the Magnetic Liner and then gently apply the Magnetic Lashes. The Kiss Magnetic Lash and Magnetic Liner can be bought separately or together in a kit for your convenience (R379.95) | Lashes sold separately (R229.95) | Magnetic eyeliner (R249.95). A wintery take on the smokey eye Traditionally, we bring reach for our best shades of charcoal, silver, grey, brown and nude when it comes to a smokey eye on a night out. In winter, you can switch up your eyeshadow shades to create a daytime smokey eye. wet n wild’s 10 Pan Eyeshadow Palettes (R139.95) offer ten super pigmented shadows in one convenient palette. For an office smokey eye, try Rose in the Air, a pretty collection of pinks, nudes and mauves. Some something a little more daring, try Cosmic Collision. Here you can really mix it up with shades of blue, purple, green and earthy shades. The new Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Eye Set (R499.99) is your go-to for every eye look from a soft day shimmer to a bold and striking night get-up. With seven new brushes and a metal lash separator, this kit has your every possible need covered. Get the perfect smokey eye, every time.
August 19, 2021
One-Pot Winter Winners (6 delectable easy recipes)
Looking for some convenient, easy to prepare winning winter dishes that only use one pot to prepare? Look no further! From a simple one-pot roast chicken to a boerewors spaghetti, West African Jollof rice, a chicken veg stew, sausage and baked bean stew or a hearty breakfast and brunchtime snack, with the convenience and goodness of the Rhodes Quality products the goodness sealed in is the goodness you get out in the wholesome recipes for you to make for the whole family with love. Enjoy these convenient and easy-to-make recipes to keep you warm and cosy during the long nights and short days. Jollof Rice A spicy one-pot tomato rice dish from West Africa. Ingredients (serves 4-6) 1 x 400 g can Rhodes Quality Tomatoes Chopped & Peeled 2 red peppers, seeded and chopped 1-2 chillies (Scotch bonnet are authentic) 45 ml (3 Tbsp) sunflower oil 1 onion, finely chopped 4 cloves garlic, crushed 65 ml (1 x 115 g) Rhodes Quality Tomato Paste 750 ml (2½ cups) prepared chicken stock 10 ml (2 tsp) Packo Mild & Spicy Curry Powder 5 ml (1tsp) dried thyme salt and freshly cracked black pepper 500 ml (2 cups) white rice 2 bay leaves to serve: 30 ml (2 Tbsp) chopped parsley Method Place the Rhodes Quality Tomatoes Chopped & Peeled, the red peppers and the chillies into a food processor and blend until smooth. Heat the oil in a large saucepan. Add the onion and fry until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and Rhodes Quality Tomato Paste and fry for two minutes more. Add the tomato-pepper puree and stir. Bring to the boil and then reduce the heat and simmer for ten minutes. Add chicken stock, Packo Mild & Spicy Curry Powder and thyme. Season to taste with the salt and pepper. Simmer for a further 5 minutes. Add rice and bay leaves and stir well. Reduce heat and cover the saucepan with a lid. Simmer, stirring often, until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked. Add extra water or chicken stock if needed during cooking. Remove the jollof from the heat. Remove the lid and leave to stand for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, sprinkle with parsley and serve. Sausage and baked bean stew A quick & easy throw-together meal with delicious pork sausages. Ingredients (serves 4) 15 ml (1 Tbsp) sunflower oil 1 onion, finely sliced 1 garlic clove, crushed 8 frozen pork sausages 1 x 400 g can Rhodes Quality Tomatoes Chopped & Peeled 5 ml (1 tsp) Dijon mustard 160 ml (⅔ cup) prepared chicken stock 1 x 410 g can Rhodes Quality Baked Beans in Tomato Sauce salt and freshly cracked black pepper 60 g (1 cup) baby spinach leaves, washed to serve: mashed potato or fresh bread Method Heat the oil in a large saucepan. Add the onion and fry over low heat until softened. Add the garlic and fry for two minutes more and set aside. In the same saucepan, brown the sausages on all sides. Return the onions and garlic to the pan. Add the Rhodes Quality Tomatoes Chopped & Peeled, the mustard and the chicken stock. Bring to the heat and then add the Rhodes Quality Baked Beans in Tomato Sauce. Continue simmering the sauce until the sausages are cooked through. Season well to taste. Stir in the spinach and turn off the heat. Serve over mashed potatoes or with a fresh bread. Breakfast bacon and potato hash A one-pan easy breakfast or perfect brunchtime meal. Ingredients (serves 4) 4 potatoes, peeled 30 ml (2 Tbsp) olive oil 200 g back bacon, diced 2 spring onions, finely chopped 1 x 400 g can Rhodes Quality Tomatoes Chopped & Peeled salt and freshly cracked black pepper handful of chopped Parsley 4 eggs 65 ml (¼ cup) mozzarella cheese Method Dice the potatoes into even sized cubes. Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan. Add the potatoes and cook until tender, golden and crispy. Add the bacon pieces and fry until crisp. Add the spring onions. Add the Rhodes Quality Tomatoes Chopped & Peeled and bring the sauce to the boil. Season well to taste and stir in the parsley. Reduce the heat to a simmer. Make four wells in the hash and crack an egg into each well. Sprinkle each egg with a little mozzarella cheese. Replace the lid and cook until the eggs are cooked. Serve immediately. Cooking Tip: Replace the bacon with chicken rashers if preferred. One-pot roast chicken A simple roast chicken made with Rhodes Quality Chickpeas is true home-style cooking. The whole chicken cooks in one pot with vegetables and potatoes – making sure that no flavour is lost. Made with Rhodes Quality Chickpeas. Ingredients (serves 4-6) 1 x 400g can Rhodes Quality Chickpeas, drained 65 ml (¼ C) butter 45 ml (3 T) sunflower oil 1 whole chicken, cleaned 10 ml (2 t) fresh thyme leaves 1 medium onion, chopped 4 carrots, chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped 200 g baby potatoes, peeled 250 ml (1 C) prepared chicken stock Method Heat the butter and the oil together in a large heavy-bottomed casserole dish. Season the whole chicken with salt, pepper and thyme and place into the casserole dish. Brown the skin well on all sides. Remove the chicken from the dish and set it aside. Add the onions, carrots and garlic to the dish and fry for a few minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions begin to soften. Add the baby potatoes and stir well to coat. Return the chicken to the casserole dish. Add the chicken stock and place the lid on the casserole dish. Place the casserole dish into the oven preheated to 170˚C and roast slowly for 45 minutes. Add the Rhodes Quality Chickpeas to the vegetables and stir well. Replace the lid and continue cooking until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Your choice: To thicken the sauce, remove one cup of the vegetables together with
August 19, 2021
Chicco Unico Air Car Seat
Purchasing a safe car seat is one of the most important decisions a parent makes long before their precious little one even joins the family. There are many options on the market and the information overload can be supremely overwhelming. The Chicco Unico Plus Air is a super seat that is suitable for us from birth till 12 years of age making it a highly cost-effective choice for parents. There is a reason this car seat is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by over 94 reviewers internationally! The Unico Plus is now a part of the “Air” family making it more breathable and well ventilated – perfect for South Africa’s warm climate! Easy installation either by Isofix or your vehicles 3-point belt A padded reducer provides additional protection for your tiny newborn Side Safety System – ensuring best practice in case of lateral impacts The Unico Plus Air can be purchased at participating baby outlets for R4999.99 – a great investment in your little one’s well-being. For more information head to www.chicco.co.za
August 19, 2021
Intentional Parenting
The term Intentional Parenting has become a hot topic in recent years, but many people are not exactly sure of what it means. Intentional Parenting is a method where parents deliberately plan ways to be present in their children’s lives. And not just physically present – but emotionally, communicatively, and educationally too. While not every moment of our lives can be planned, adapting an Intentional Parenting style helps provide us with ways to bond with our children. Science has shown that when parents deliberately spend time with their children, it assists in future academic achievement, improved relationships, and greater emotional well-being. To children, love equals attention. With the world today being so distracting and parents being busier than ever, children seem to be missing out on the undivided attention that they need. We can’t give all of our attention, all of the time, to our kids. That would be impractical. However, this is where Intentional Parenting comes into play. It is a way to try and plan your life to fit in moments of attention. Whether it be a 10 minute cuddle in the morning before the rush starts, one-on-one story time in the evening or a walk around the block pointing out interesting things – it is these small moments that are not only doable, but will make all the difference in your relationship with your child. Another important aspect of Intentional Parenting is making teachable moments instead of letting them come by naturally. Schedule the time to teach your child to water plants, tie shoelaces, pack away toys, tummy time or help in the kitchen. Not only are you teaching them valuable skills, you will also be setting rules for them. When it comes to Intentional Parenting, setting rules and boundaries is not only about discipline but giving your children stable guidelines with which they can grow. Here are a few ideas on how you can introduce Intentional Parenting to your child’s life simply: Ages 0-4 Join a parenting and child class like Toptots [INSERT FIND A BRANCH LINK] Cuddle and sing songs Read a book Go for a walk Blow bubbles Play pretend games Water plants Ages 5-10 Join a parenting and child class like Toptots [INSERT FIND A BRANCH LINK] Play games Build with Legos or blocks Work on a puzzle Fly a kite Draw pictures outside with sidewalk chalk Throw/kick a ball Bake together
August 18, 2021
Benefits and disadvantages of homeschooling
More and more families are starting to realize the numerous benefits associated with homeschooling. Homeschooling is no longer a stigmatized, isolated learning experience. Through the power of the internet and the rise of online curriculum service providers, homeschooling has evolved into a bespoke educational offering that merges the best elements of a traditional brick-and-mortar school system with the advantages that independent distance-based learning can allow. However, despite the great benefits of homeschooling, there are also certain disadvantages to this approach. Let’s explore some of these pros and cons of a homeschooling approach. Disadvantages A possible disadvantage experienced by a homeschooling parent, is that the parent might become frustrated by having to take on the role of a teacher. Deciphering not only the coursework, but the curriculum outcomes as well, can create a lot of anxiety for parents. Parents might struggle to know whether they are “doing the right thing” or not. Especially in cases where students are older, parents might be intimidated by the difficulty of some of the coursework, as they are not subject experts themselves, but are now expected to teach their children mathematics or physics that they have done 20 odd years ago – or sometimes not at all! In cases like the aforementioned, parents often start to invest in expensive private tutors, which can lead to a high financial burden. However, by making use of an online curriculum service provider, these disadvantages can largely be mitigated. Through a reputable online curriculum service provider, students can have access to subject expert tutors, which eliminate the need for parents to act as teachers themselves. With this in mind, let’s focus on the benefits of homeschooling, and in particular the benefits of online schooling. Benefits 1. Academic flexibility The traditional education system allows for very little flexibility in learning, when in reality, education is not a one-size fits all solution. Some students are very strong auditory and visual learners. Other students might learn best through repetition. Some might prefer learning through practical application. Homeschooling affords an individual the opportunity to learn in a way that suits him/her best, especially if combined with a blended learning teaching strategy – which incorporates live classes and non-live learning elements, such as interactive lessons, quizzes and games, as well as practical project based learning. For students who are professional athletes, or who have globetrotting parents, the flexibility of a homeschooling system is particularly beneficial. Furthermore, in a traditional schooling context, with high student-to-teacher radios, a lot of time is often spent waiting for assistance. Students are often expected to partake in extracurricular school subjects which do not interest them. The flexibility of homeschooling allow students more time to focus on things that truly interest them. Students can progress according to their own ability and interest. 2. Fosters independent learning skills Students who are homeschooled and allowed the freedom to learn in a way that suits him/her best, naturally also acquire the ability to learn more independently. In other words, these students don’t need someone to guide them through all elements of the learning material step-by-step. They are more confident in assimilating academic resources for themselves – a skill which they have honed during their years of homeschooling! This sense of autonomy is an invaluable ‘soft-skill’ that will aid students for years to come, whether at university or at work. Furthermore, students who homeschool with the help of an online curriculum service provider learn how to be adept at using technology, often from a young age. These students learn how to use cloud computing tools to collaborate remotely – an essential future of work skill, which is becoming even more important in an increasingly globalized and interconnected world. 3. Mental health Students who struggle with anxiety, social anxiety or depression, or who were victims of bullying in a traditional school context, can study from the comfort and safety of their own homes. Students have the opportunity to focus on their mental and emotional wellbeing. In small amounts, stress can be good, but the incredible pressure that is placed on students to perform academically – or that they often place on themselves – can become debilitating. There is less pressure on students to conform or fit a traditionally expected mold, which is beneficial to a student’s self-esteem. Students with special needs or learning disabilities might feel especially marginalized in a traditional school setting, and their confidence can suffer. In a homeschooling environment, parents are better equipped to introduce certain interventional strategies to address learning challenges. 4. Social development A fear that many parents who are considering homeschooling have, is the fear of social isolation. Parents fear that their children will not develop social skills or have no friends. However, due to the flexibility of homeschooling, students often have more time to engage in social extracurricular activities or community initiatives – such as joining a sports club, or volunteering at a local shelter – where they can still make friends and interact with peers. For students who make use of an online curriculum service provider, the shift from parent-led to facilitator-led education means there is an even greater opportunity to interact socially. In an online school environment – which essentially emulates some elements of a traditional school environment, such as live classes – students continually interact with classmates and tutors. 5. Higher quality education In traditional classes with high student to teacher ratios, students do not get individualized attention. In a homeschooling context, students can receive more individualized attention, either from a parent or tutor. When making use of a reputable online curriculum service provider, students can have access to a highly qualified subject expert at the click of a button. Furthermore, some parents might want their children to be taught using a different curriculum than the one offered by traditional government schools. In reality though, many parents simply might not be able to afford the cost of a private school that offers such an alternative curriculum. For these parents, homeschooling provides a way to
August 18, 2021
Can Adults Learn an Additional Language?
We already know that learning anything is easiest as child. But does that mean it is impossible for adults? Of course not! It is never too late to start learning! Our biggest barriers at learning a language as an adult can be attributed to a number of factors – such as not enough time or feelings of shyness or embarrassment. As an adult – our main set back is that unlike a child – we now have to focus on learning and also have a number of adult thoughts and emotions that we want to express outright. However, these are mere mental blocks and with a little perseverance can be overcome! How long does it take to learn an additional language? This is a question we offer get – and the short and simple answer is that it is unanswerable! Learning a language is not something that can be quantified – even in your home language – most likely you learn something new about it each day. It is also not easy to say “how long will it take me to be conversational?” because these are all averages. It is also highly dependent on the target language – are there new alphabets and phonetics to learn before getting to learn the language itself? These all factor into the length of a language When you see a course that says “it takes 2 months to complete this course and then you will be at X level” – what happens if you don’t pass? Then is it your own failure or the teacher’s failure? None. Learning something as fluid as a language is something that depends on you as an individual. If you study everyday and expose yourself to various other materials in your target language after your class lesson – naturally your ability will develop a lot quicker than if you only attend class and do not practice or expose yourself out of class – it is both the same amount of work – but your approach to it determines how you progress through the material. Unfortunately – language is a patient game. It is something that if you decide you want to become fluent in – you shouldn’t put a time limit on yourself – why make something long term pressured? The most important thing to define for yourself is what your goal in learning this language will be. Is it to advance in your career? Is it for immigration purposes? Do you want to just be conversational in another language? Once you clearly know what your goal is – set your sights and work towards it. Once achieved, it will be easier to decide if you are still interested in learning the language or actually you feel you have progressed enough and going any further will be unenjoyable. That sounds bleak – does that mean I shouldn’t learn another language if the road to fluency is rife? Of course not! The joy of learning a language is exactly that! It’s that feeling of progression and the feeling of communication and the breakthroughs – it’s the thrill of hearing someone else say something in a different language and understanding them. This is what connects us. The most important thing when learning an additional language is to decide WHY you are learning that language. If you are learning due to a passion, a love, a goal, greater opportunities, immigration, a holiday – WHATEVER the reason – as long as there is a MOTIVATOR that is enough to learn a second language. Because the thing about languages – is that it requires determination. Your motivation will lead your determination. The main thing to remember when learning a language in adulthood – is that it is much like any skill you need to start from scratch – before you can make an omelette – you probably should learn how to cook an egg first – and build from there. Maybe you won’t be able to express your thoughts and feelings immediately – but if you can begin by introducing yourself and your name – you have a basis to build on. There also is something to be said that as wonderful as fluency is – is it what you need? Would you ever need engage at a fluent level? The main thing should be that you are ENJOYING learning the language and seeing your progression. What is the best way to learn a new language? There are many schools of thoughts and ways to argue this – but something that everyone can agree on is the best way to learn a new language is through IMMERSION. You need to IMMERSE yourself in the target languages language, culture, show, music, books, media, ANYTHING. Even if you don’t understand everything – the more exposure the better! It is always said that you will learn quicker if you move to the country where the target language is the main language. Why? Because this FORCES you to engage in that language. You can no longer rely on your experience or knowledge of your home language – you quite literally have to figure out how to communicate. And this is where linguistic breakthroughs happen. Naturally not everyone can up and leave to a country every time they want to learn a new language (though we wish we could!) so the most important thing is to try and expose yourself to as much of your target lesson as possible. Ask your teacher for exercises to do at home – or a recommended show – or a popular band. The most important thing is working on the language everyday – even if just for a couple of minutes. The good starting point for every language is to be sure you understand their reading and writing system so that you can start reading texts and understanding their phonetics as soon as possible. This may be difficult with languages like Mandarin, but practice those characters given in class everyday until they
August 18, 2021
Hand Washing
We are in the middle of 2021 and despite our many hopes, Covid-19 has not gone anywhere. With an unraveling third wave looming over our heads and no mask-less meetings waiting for us in the foreseeable future, it is important to stay healthy, safe, and complying to all hygiene and social distancing regulations. But let’s be real, the inevitable “there has to be a mask in here somewhere” moment must be ranked as the worst treasure hunt in history, and no one enjoys restraining themselves from petting that cute dog you see being walked in the park. Yet, there is one safety precaution that is accessible, easy, and arguable the most important, and that is washing your hands regularly. Even before the ugly head of the coronavirus had reared, washing your hands had been a vital defense against all seasonal flus and coughs. Research has shown that the average person will handle close to one hundred and forty foreign objects every day and touch their face up to fifteen times an hour. This puts your body under a huge risk of encountering germs, dirt, diseases and, in this day and age, the coronavirus. Therefore, washing your hands has never been such a crucial habit to add to your routine! Although, we all know that it would be impossible to wash your hands fifteen times an hour (between each nose itch) or even after every new object you encounter (of which many you may not even notice). As a result, we have narrowed down the list to a few important times to wash your hands; Before & after preparing and eating food After using the toilet After handling garbage After touching pets Before and after caring for someone who is ill Before & after treating wounds After sneezing or blowing your nose. Each wash should last at least twenty seconds -the Happy Birthday song sung twice – and should be a thorough cleanse of your palms, fingers (including the gaps in-between!), fingernails, backs of your hand and all the way down to your wrist. If you don’t have soap and water on hand, hand sanitizer is the ideal alternative to keep you and your family safe during these turbulent times! Try these hand washes & sanitizers products; Earthsap Earthsap East India Islands Liquid soap – R117.95 – is biodegradable, contains no petrochemicals and no synthetic fragrance. Earthsap Orange Valencia Hand Soap – R84.99 – This liquid hand soap is a wonderful addition to any home or office because it’s non-toxic and packed with therapeutic ingredients. Orange and lemon essential oils give you a burst of freshness with their zesty citrus aroma, and they also kill off nasty germs and bacteria. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which takes great care of your skin. And let’s not forget wheat germ, which fights free radicals and replenishes and moisturises your skin. The perfect natural hand wash for your kitchen or bathroom sink. Earthsap Tea Tree Hand Soap – R54.99 – There is nothing quite like tea tree when it comes to getting rid of nasty germs, bacteria, fungus and infections. So it’s no wonder that Earthsap created a lovely natural hand soap using tea tree oil as its key ingredient. Wheat germ was added to ensure that your skin is nourished and hydrated. What’s more, this liquid hand wash is 100% non-toxic – that means no petrochemicals or artificial preservative to dry out your hands. Packaged in a handy pump bottle, Earthsap’s liquid hand soap is ideal for your bathroom or kitchen sink. Earthsap – Lavender & Rosemary Hand Soap – R84.99 – This all-natural hand soap is so gentle and therapeutic; you can use it to cleanse your hands and your face as well. It’s made with a wonderful blend of skin-friendly ingredients and is free of harsh synthetic chemicals, so you don’t have to worry about it drying your skin out. Lavender oil adds a wonderfully calming scent and also keeps germs at bay, while rosemary soothes as wheat germ cleanses and hydrates. Add to your family’s kitchen or bathroom sink, and keep your hands germ-free with a mild natural hand wash; mild enough for sensitive skin. Earthsap – Hand Sanitizer – R49.95 – effectively kills germs naturally. Anti-fungal & Antii-bacterial Stockists: Available at selected SPAR stores, health shops nationwide, Wellness Warehouse and online at https://www.faithful-to-nature.co.za/ Morlage & Yorke is an English heritage brand that is inspired by fine craftsmanship Morlage & Yorke Apothecary Lemongrass & Verbena 500ml Hand Wash – R89.00 – The refreshing scent of lemongrass and clarifying verbena will stimulate and awaken the senses. Allow this hand wash to cleanse your skin leaving it refreshed and delicately fragranced Morlage & Yorke Apothecary White Orchid & Ginger 500ml Hand Wash – R89.00 – Delicate floral notes of white orchid with sophisticated spicy warmth. Enriched with vitamin E to leave the skin feeling smooth, nourished and delicately fragranced. Stockists: @Home Bodycare From Africa Range Thanks to the natural composition that our products are made out of, Bodycare from Africa offers a luxurious Bath & Body range that features key African extracts such as Rosehip Oil, Hemp Seed, Shea Butter, Argan and Activated Charcoal. Bodycare From Africa Shea 500ml Foaming Hand Wash – R74.95 – Enriched with Shea Butter and Vitamin E to cleanse and moisturize Bodycare From Africa African Rosehip Foaming Hand Wash 500ml – R74.95 – Rich in Vitamin E and Rosehip to moisturize the skin, leaving it feeling soft, silky and smooth Bodycare From Africa Marrakech Argan 500ml Foaming Hand Wash – R74.95 – Rich in Vitamin E and Argan Oil to cleanse and moisturize Bodycare From Africa Savannah Hemp Seed 500ml Foaming Hand Wash – R74.95 – Enriched with Hemp Seed and Vitamin E to cleanse and moisturize. Stockists: Dischem (Hand washes only), Pick n Pay ( Shower Gel, Hand washes & Hand creams), Takealot Treemedus Treemendus Tea Tree Hand Sanitiser 100ml – R35.00 – This 100 % natural hand sanitiser is formulated to effectively help reduce exposure to potential disease-causing bacteria.The combination of 2% organic tea tree essential oil in a 70% alcohol solution is designed for use when hand washing is not possible
August 17, 2021
