Advice from the experts
Parenting Hub

Kid approved Mother’s Day recipes -easy and delicious

When kids (and Dads) want to spoil Mom on Mother’s Day, they want to know she’s going to love what they’re making and knowing that they won’t even have to break a sweat it’s going to be sooo easy is just an extra bonus!  Mushroom & Cheese Soufflé Toasts  Makes 4 toasts 15ml oil 150g button or portabellini mushrooms, sliced 3 spring onions, sliced 30ml butter 25ml cake flour 80ml milk, hot 5ml Dijon mustard 50g cheddar cheese, grated salt and milled black pepper 2 eggs, separated 4 slices white bread, lightly toasted 5ml parsley, chopped Preheat the oven to 220°C.  Heat the oil in a pan and fry the mushrooms for 4 – 5 minutes.  Add the spring onions and cook for another minute. Set aside and reserve one third for garnish.  Melt the butter in a pan and stir in the flour and cook for 3 minutes, mixing well.  Add the hot milk and stirring continuously, keep stirring, for 2-3 minutes.  Remove from the heat and stir in the mustard and cheese.  Allow to cool slightly and stir in the egg yolks and reserved mushroom mixture. Season well with salt and pepper.  In a spotlessly clean bowl, whisk the egg whites, using an electric whisk, until soft peaks form.  Carefully fold the egg whites into the mushroom mixture.  Arrange the toast slices onto a baking sheet and spoon the mixture onto the toasts. Bake for 5 – 6 minutes or until golden and puffy. Serve at once topped with the reserved mushrooms and some parsley. Boerewors Stuffed Mushrooms Serves 4-6 as a snack  Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Difficulty: Easy Ingredients 2tbsp coconut oil 250g boerewors, removed from casings 12 Portabellini mushrooms, cleaned, stalks removed and reserved 1 red chilli, finely chopped 150g full-fat cream cheese ¼ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley Method Heat oven to 200°C.  In the meantime, heat coconut oil in a pan and brown the wors mince, stirring often, about 7 minutes.  Finely chop the mushroom stalks and add to the pan with the chilli. Cook for 5 minutes more. Stir in the cream cheese and parsley and taste for seasoning. Pack into the 12 mushroom caps, place into oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, until browned and bubbling. Mushroom and Bacon Salsa Stuffed Avocado Serves 2 Preparation time: 5 minutes Cooking time: 10 minutes Ingredients 100g streaky bacon, cut into cubes ½ red pepper, diced 150g fresh button mushrooms, sliced 1 fresh tomato, diced 2 spring onions, sliced small handful fresh coriander, chopped 1 large ripe avocado, halved  Method Fry the bacon in a pan over medium heat until caramelized, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.  In the bacon fat, cook the red pepper and mushrooms until softened, about 5 minutes. Combine mushroom mixture with the bacon, fresh tomato, spring onion and coriander. Spoon into the avo halves and serve with lime wedges.  Mushroom, broccolini & cracked baby potato tray bake with garlic butter A scrumptious, crowd-pleasing side dish for your next braai. Ingredients: (serves 6) 700g-1kg baby potatoes 125 g butter, melted 30 ml olive oil 1-2 cloves garlic, finely chopped/grated rind of a small lemon, finely grated a generous handful fresh parsley, finely chopped (save half for garnish) salt & pepper at least 250 g portabellini mushrooms 200-300 g broccolini spears olive oil, for drizzling Method: Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender. Drain and set aside. Make the garlic butter drizzle: mix the butter, oil, garlic, lemon rind, parsley in a medium jug/bowl, and season with salt & pepper. Set aside. Arrange the potatoes in a large oven tray, then use the back of a spoon to gently crack them. Add the mushrooms & broccolini, then drizzle with the butter mixture and season with salt & pepper. Bake in a preheated oven at 220 C for 15 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown. Scatter with parsley and serve at once. Mushroom, halloumi & yellow pepper skewers with mint salsa verde Turn everyday veggie skewers into a feast with salty halloumi and a zesty green herb sauce. Ingredients: (serves 4) 1/4 cup (60 ml) olive oil 1 punnet (20 g) fresh mint leaves (save a few leaves for garnish) 1 punnet (20 g) fresh parsley 1 clove garlic, finely grated grated rind & juice of a lemon salt & pepper 250 g portabellini mushrooms, whole or halved about 250 g halloumi cheese, cubed 2 medium yellow peppers, sliced into squares Method: For the salsa verde: put the olive oil, mint, parsley, garlic, lemon rind & juice and some salt & pepper into a small blender. Blend to a smooth pulp. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. For the skewers: assemble the skewers by arranging chunks of mushrooms, halloumi & yellow pepper together. Braai over hot coals or bake in a very hot oven at 220 C for about 10 minutes until golden. Drizzle with salsa verde en serve at once.

My Breastpump

So why do my breasts leak, it is embarrassing!!!

Ok, Mother Nature, why do my breasts leak? Milk stains on my shirt or wet, sticky breasts are not really what a breast-feeding mom needs! It can be so embarrassing or uncomfortable to have a sudden let-down while in the shops or to wake up to wet sheets. So why does this happen? Is it just my bad luck? Is there any way that I can reduce the leaks or at least stop them from showing? Yes, breast feeding mothers can have leaking breasts that can cause some embarrassment but there is also good news. Firstly, you can use a disposable breast pad that comfortably and discreetly fits into your bra that will soak up the leaking breast milk, like the Ameda Moisture Guard breast pads . Secondly, if the truth be told, leaking is common in breast feeding women. It is to be expected and is a good sign that you are well on your way to breast feeding success. To successfully breast feed your body needs to be able to do 3 main steps: Milk production- When the milk is made Milk release- this is called the let-down it is when your milk is released from your milk ducts to your nipple Milk transfer- when the milk moves from your breast to your baby’s stomach   So, in that case if your breast leak, it shows you that your body can do the first two steps: production and release. You are making enough milk to leak, and you can release or “let-down” the milk from your breast.  Sometimes the let-down can happen at the strangest times, like when you think of your baby or hear another baby cry. Your body is so in tuned to your baby that just hearing a cry can signal your body to start releasing milk. The hormone that is the cause of the let-down is called Oxytocin. It helps your muscles to compress and squeeze your milk out your ducts into your nipple and out of your breast. Some mothers get a warning that the let-down is happening and their breast tingle.  The last step is important because it is the final step in your baby receiving the nourishment she needs. This is generally seen as direct feeding or expressing. For information and pricing on the Ameda Breast pumps see our website Do all moms leak? Or is it just me?  Well, not all moms leak but it is common. The good news is that it becomes less frequent as your breast feeding matures. Times when you are most likely to leak breast milk are: In the early days of your breast feeding. You can expect more leaking while your body is getting used to the increasing demands of your baby’s needs. The leaking can start to reduce from 6 to 12 weeks and then generally disappear.  Emotions can also bring on some leaking. This can be linked to hearing a baby cry or thinking or your baby or evening listening to a very touching story.  If you skip a feed and your breast become overfull expect to have some leaking. This is quite common in the first few days back at work. If you have a warm shower, you can expect some leaking If you have an orgasm you can expect to see some leaking or even a bit of spray Ok, So, Leaking is normal, common and actually is a good sign of milk supply, so how do I make it stop? Waiting for 12 weeks might just be a bit too long.  There are a few things that you can do to reduce the amount of leaking but the most effective is to use disposable breast milk pads. The Ameda Moisture Guards are fantastic because they are discreet, ultra-thin and couture to your breast so that no-one will notice that you are wearing them. The Moisture Guards are super soft and will not irritate your nipple. They can absorb up to 35x their weight and can be used over night to help prevent wet sheets. They are the new generation of breast pads that do not have a plastic lining, which keeps moisture on your nipple, which is just gross. They have a woven pattern that helps to move moisture away from the nipple keeping you dry. They also have 2 adhesive strips which keep the breast pad in place so that they do not slip out.  Other ways you can help to reduce leaking are: If you feel like you have started to leak you can press firmly against your nipple with the palm of your hand to stop the follow. This should not be done to often in the beginning of breast feeding as it can interfere with the supply. Have a spare shirt handy in-case you need to change; this is a good practical idea for work.  Choose clothing with light colours and small prints that cover up a multitude of mishaps. Place a bath towel on top of your bed sheet. This will protect the mattress and keep the sheet beneath you dry. Breastfeed your baby before going to bed. This will minimise the amount of milk in the breasts (but remember that breasts are never truly empty).  So leaking breast are normal, and can be expected. The truth is that we should not be embarrassed about leaking breast. However, it is not always that easy to make a joke and carry on especially when you are at work or while you are out and about. The Ameda Moisture Guard disposable breast pads are there for you so that you can feel confident and not worry about any stains on your clothes. You can go out and enjoy your time at work or out with your baby. Breast feeding is an amazing journey to be on and leaking does not need to be a reason to stop.

Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

Gestational Diabetes: Reasons, risks and recovery

Kathy Malherbe speaks to the clinical team at Bonitas Medical Fund to get some insights on Gestational Diabetes (GDM) and tells the story of mother-of-two, Theresa’s (36) experience with Gestational Diabetes. Diabetes is a condition whereby your body is unable, in varying degrees, to produce or respond to the hormone insulin. This causes abnormal metabolism of carbohydrates and elevated levels of glucose in the blood. Diabetes is commonly divided into four types: Type 1, Type 2 (often lifestyle related,) Gestational Diabetes and Diabetes Mellitus. Normally when you eat, your blood sugar rises. The pancreas, a gland deep in your abdomen, releases a hormone called insulin. It helps move sugar from your blood into your cells for energy and storage. In a non-diabetic person, the blood sugar will go back down to normal after eating.   What is Gestational Diabetes? Gestation comes from theLatin gestare, which means ‘to bear’ or ‘give birth to’. Medically speaking it is the period between conception and birth. There are two types of Gestational Diabetes. Women with class A1 can manage it through diet and exercise. Those who have class A2 need to take insulin or other medications. Gestational Diabetes usually goes away after you give birth. But it can affect your baby’s health, and it raises your risk of getting Type 2 diabetes later in life Unlike Type 1 diabetes, Gestational Diabetes is not caused by a lack of insulin but by other hormones produced during pregnancy that can make insulin less effective, a condition referred to as insulin resistance. Gestational Diabetic symptoms disappear following delivery. Why does it develop? During pregnancy, your placenta makes hormones that cause glucose to build up in your blood   and produces a hormone called the Human Placental Lactogen (HPL). HPL breaks down fats from the mother to fuel the growth of the baby. Usually, your pancreas can send out enough insulin to handle it. But if your body can’t make enough insulin or stops using insulin as it should, your blood sugar levels rise and you get Gestational Diabetes. It can lead to insulin resistance and carbohydrate intolerance in the mother.  Who is at risk? About 10% of pregnancies result in Gestational Diabetes. The causes are not known but the risk factors include:  Age-older women  High blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease Obesity Not exercising   Immediate family history of diabetes History of Gestational Diabetes in a previous pregnancy Have had a miscarriage or a stillborn baby Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome It is important to note that there is no definitive way to prevent Gestational Diabetes. Even mothers who have had Gestational Diabetes in a previous pregnancy may not get it with a later pregnancy. Warning Signs of Gestational Diabetes Sugar in the urine Unusual thirst Frequent urination Fatigue Nausea Blurred vision Vaginal, bladder and skin infections. When and how is it detected? In most cases, Gestational Diabetes develops in the second or third trimester (from week 14 to the birth) and disappears after the baby is born. A screening or finger prick blood test can be done at a clinic or pharmacy to give you a snapshot of your blood sugar levels. However, a formal diagnosis requires a blood test and sometimes this will need to be repeated. Gestational Diabetes is detected by using an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) or a random blood glucose test.  The OGTT test is done by a nurse or doctor taking a blood sample from your vein to test the blood sugar levels.  Then you will drink a glass of water mixed with glucose. An hour later you will have another blood test. Your blood glucose level should rise after you finish the sugary drink, then go back to normal, as insulin moves glucose into your cells. If it takes too long to go back to normal you could have diabetes. What the test shows The blood glucose is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Two hours after you finish the glucose drink, this is what your results mean: Below 140 mg/d: Normal blood sugar  (7.8mmol) Between 140 and 199: impaired glucose tolerance or prediabetes (11mmol) 200 or higher: diabetes (11.1mmol) The random glucose blood test is carried out a couple of times to see if your glucose varies widely.  If initially you are not diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes, the test may be repeated at around 24-28 weeks.  What are the dangers? In many cases it can be controlled with a healthy diet and exercise but at least one in ten women will need their blood glucose levels controlled with medication. If your diabetes is not picked up during pregnancy it can cause risks at birth. The most prevalent is shoulder dystocia which is when the baby’s head gets stuck during the birth.  This can cause:  Fractures to the collarbone and arm Damage to the brachial plexus nerves. These nerves go from the spinal cord in the neck down the arm Lack of oxygen to the body (also called asphyxia). In the most severe cases, this can cause brain injury or even death  It can also lead to babies being large for their gestational age which can result in birth complications How can you help yourself? By adhering to an eating programme that is healthy for you and for your baby including:  Eat protein with every meal Include daily fruits and vegetables in your diet Limit or avoid processed foods Pay attention to portion sizes to avoid overeating Exercise regularly. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise 5 days a week. Just remember to speak to your doctor before starting any new exercises  Don’t skip meals. To regulate your blood sugar levels, aim to eat a healthy snack or meal every 3 hours or so. Eating nutrient-dense foods regularly can help keep you satiated and stabilise blood sugar levels. Take your prenatal vitamins, including any probiotics, if they’re recommended by your doctor. Being diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes can be extremely stressful and dangerous to both mother and baby.  It is imperative to have your blood glucose monitored during pregnancy. However, if you are tested regularly, stick to a healthy eating programme and exercise regularly,

Cosmetix

Makeup for teens

If you are a teen or have a teen, the chances are that they are ready to start experimenting with makeup. They are now at the age where they want to start taking care of their appearance & highlight certain features. It’s always so difficult deciding what is appropriate without being over the top. Here are some makeup ideas that will be suitable for a teen where simplicity is key: Focus on the complexion and skin health first. It is never too early to start or have a skin care regime. Make sure your teen is cleansing and moisturizing their skin. A nice gentle face wash and makeup remover should be used to remove all traces of makeup so that pores do not get clogged as clogged pores can cause blackheads and breakouts. Teach your kids from a young age about using an SPF. This is the best thing they can do for their skin. Teens are always going to the beach or hanging by the pool therefore an SPF will protect against the harmful UV rays which will cause pigmentation & premature wrinkles later in life.  Prep your skin. Using a primer will not only even out your skin and make for a smooth surface for your BB Cream or Foundation, but also act as a barrier between your skin and the BB Cream or Foundation and prevent your pores from becoming clogged. Try using the essence prime plus studio protecting +skin perfecting primer which contains an SPF of 20 for added benefit. Finding the perfect base. When it comes to foundation for teen skin, I find that it is not necessary and that a BB cream works just as well. If your teen is looking to cover acne, then rather spot conceal with a concealer and then use the BB Cream all over the face. The goal is to look as natural as possible. Try the CATRICE Clean ID BB Cream. If your teen has a pimple that is red, try covering it with green concealer first which helps to neutralize redness, then spot concealer with your normal concealer.  Try using the CATRICE Colour Correcting Concealer. When it comes to concealer, your concealer should always be a shade lighter than your natural skin tone so that it highlights the under eye. Apply the concealer in inverted triangles under the eye area and blend in well. Try the essence camouflage healthy glow concealer. For brows, you want to keep them full and natural just tamed and neat, so my suggestion is to use a tinted brow gel to comb them in place. Try using the essence make me brow. Choose a colour closest to your natural hair colour. When it comes to eyeshadow, shimmers are great because they are transparent, but earth-tone shadows can work well too. Try the essence brown palette. Apply 2 coats of mascara, using a mascara wand in between each coat to prevent clumping. Use the essence lash princess mascara which is a cult favourite amongst makeup artists. A touch of blush. For blush colour choose a colour you get when you pinch your cheeks. That will be the correct shade for you. essence has a variety of blushes to choose from. A favourite of mine is the essence matt blush.  Sheer lipstick or lip gloss, and that is really it. Try any of the essence ultra last lipsticks or shine shine shine lip-glosses. These will work perfectly to finish off the look.  Your teen will want to experiment with makeup as part of growing up. Help by suggesting the right product and age-appropriate makeup tips. Mothers have a great responsibility here to teach their daughters about makeup. Mothers and teens may even want to go in together for a makeup lesson.

Parenting Hub

MOTHER’S DAY BREAKFASTS THAT TASTE LIKE A HUG THANKS TO SASKO

If there was ever a year to celebrate your mom or the mother figure in your life it would be 2021, so spoil her with a breakfast that not only tastes amazing but is nutritious too with SASKO’s range of LOW GI Added Care breads. Encourage her to put her feet up or lie-in on the morning and thank the most wonderful mom for wearing multiple hats throughout the last 12 months as she’s been home-schooling, working and running a tight ship in the household – all at the same time. It’s exhausting just thinking about it but mom does it with a smile. SASKO has developed a range of recipes that are perfect for health enthusiasts as the LOW GI Added Care range is packed with vitamins, minerals and high in fibre, and is also available in five delicious flavours. Whether mom prefers Seeded Whole Wheat Brown Bread, Whole Wheat Brown Bread, Oats and Honey-flavoured White Bread, Multi-seed Cranberry Brown Bread or the Soy & Linseed Bread, there’s something for everyone. The options really take your breakfast or other meals up a notch in flavour and health. Just like mom prioritises your wellbeing throughout the year, it’s an opportunity to return the favour on Mother’s Day.  Bon Appetit, Moms! Honey and  Oats French Toast Muffins Ingredients 6 large eggs 2 cups milk 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 1⁄2 tablespoons sugar 14 cups cubed SASKO Low GI Honey & Oats White Bread Golden syrup for serving Method Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a mun tin with butter. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, sugar & vanilla extract. Add cubed bread to the mixture and fold until combined and all of the liquid isa bsorbed. Divide the bread mixture into mun tins, pressing it lightly into each cup to compact it. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Allow to cool for 5 minutes, scoop out and serve topped with golden syrup. Seeded Bread Omelettes Ingredients 1⁄2 cup of crumbed SASKO Low GI Seeded Brown Bread 3 eggs Ready-made white sauce Pinch of cayenne Pinch of salt & pepper Method Pour hot white sauce over the breadcrumbs, mixing and mashing them well. Separate the egg yolk and white, whisking the whites until stiff. Whisk yolk of eggs, cayenne, salt and pepper until thick and stir into the white sauce and bread-crumbs mixture. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cut and fold in the stiffly beaten egg whites to the mixture. In a hot, oiled medium frying pan turn in omelette and cook lightly. Set the pan in the oven to dry on the top of the omelette. Remove pan from oven and serve. Linseed and  Soy, Chicken and egg quiche Ingredients 1 kg cooked chicken 6 large eggs 2 cups milk 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground mustard 6 slices, cut into cubes of SASKO Low GI Linseed White Bread 1 cup grated cheese Method In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, salt and mustard together. Stir in the bread cubes, cheese and cooked chicken. Pour into a greased baking dish. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake uncovered at 180°C for 40 min or until a knife inserted comes out clean.

Parenting Hub

Last minute gift ideas for Mother’s Day

Moms are the real superheroes of this world, always putting their family’s needs before their own. Mother’s Day offers us the chance to spoil her, give her some time off and to show our appreciation. Still looking for the perfect gift for Mom? Why not treat her to some pamper products she can enjoy at home – after all, who doesn’t love an at-home spa session?! An all-natural skin regime Mom deserves the best, so why not spoil her with a great quality skincare regime? Clean beauty is all the rage and plant-based skincare products have taken the industry by storm. ZERO is the latest brand to do so – offering fantastic natural ingredients in vegan formulations that hydrate, nourish and protect the skin without the presence of artificial preservatives or chemicals. ZERO Face Wash (R299.00) is a gentle gel cleanser that can be used twice a day to remove makeup, dirt and impurities. ZERO Day Cream (R399.00) and Night Cream (R399.00) deeply nourish and moisturise the skin. Filled with shea butter, coconut oil and green tea extract, these moisturisers leave skin looking and feeling refreshed. If you want to treat her to the full range, why not include the ZERO Eye Cream (R299.00) and Scrub (R299.00) in her gift? The eye cream has a rich formulation that intensely nourishes the delicate eye area, while the scrub gently yet effectively helps to eliminate dry and dead skin cells without harming the skin.  At-home mani Whether Mom loves a bright or colourful mani, or prefers to keep her nails nude, she’s bound to love home manicure products. If she’s a no-fuss kind of person, then Kiss Gel Fantasy Nails (from R162.00) are just for her. These ready-to-wear nails offer an instant gel manicure and can either be applied with glue or adhesive tabs (both are included). They last for up to seven days, and are available in a variety of colours and designs. If Mom loves shaping, filing, painting or buffing her own nails, you might want to treat her to some home care items.  Kiss Freesia Cuticle Oil (R132.99) and Kiss No More Cuticles Cuticle Remover(R122.49) will ensure soft and neat cuticles, while Kiss Diamond Strengthener (R132.99) and Glass Shine Top Coat (R132.99) will ensure strong, healthy nails and long-lasting nail colour.  Pretty By Flormar Nail Enamels (R32.95) offer long-lasting colour and quick drying formulations in a variety of shades. They’re really affordable too, making it possible to spoil Mom with more than one shade. If Mom (like everyone else right now!) is battling with dry hands, the ZERO Hand & Nail Cream (R299.00) makes a great gift option and rounds off your manicure set. Pampering hair care Pampering hair care products are always a good idea! And top of the list would be a luxurious hair mask. If Mom’s hair has recently taken a bit of a beating, we recommend Marc Anthony’s 12 Second Miracle Treatment (R194.99). It contains apple stem cells, biotin and grape seed oil to revive dull, damaged, slow-growing hair and even helps protect against heat and breakage.  OGX Coconut Miracle Penetrating Oil (R219.95) revives not just your hair, but also your senses. This rich oil helps to calm frizz and tame flyaways, leaving hair silky soft and shiny, all while offering a gorgeous coconut scent.  To restore lost moisture, we recommend Hask Argan Oil Intense Deep Conditioning Hair Treatment (R74.95). It goes to work on dry and damaged hair to restore lost moisture and prevent breakage. This intense conditioner also nourishes hair and keeps it looking healthy and shiny. To restore damaged hair, try Cantu Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque (R54.95). Designed for curly, coily and wavy hair, this intense treatment is formulated without harsh ingredients to repair, restore and strengthen. If Mom has curly hair, she’ll love the Mango & Marula range of products by The Perfect Hair. The Mango & Marula Deep Conditioner (R89.99) is enriched with mango butter, castor oil, and marula oil to give your hair an intense moisture boost, leaving it wonderfully soft.  A good quality detangling hairbrush makes a great gift – especially for Moms with longer hair. The classic Wet Brush Detangler in Black (R170.00) is made with patented IntelliFlex bristles that work through hair easily and effortlessly without breakage or pain. Beautiful makeup As life slowly starts getting back to normal, and we find ourselves out and about again, we have the perfect excuse to spoil Mom with some new makeup. To help her achieve all her eye makeup goals, we recommend wet n wild’s Colour Icon 10 Pan Eye Shadow Palettes (R139.95). Each palette contains sultry, glimmering as well as subtle shades, allowing Mom to get creative. wet n wild is renowned for their Megalast lip products – if Mom likes her lipsticks, she’ll adore the wet n wild Megalast Matte and High Shine Lipsticks (R99.95). They offer fantastic colour payoff and longevity.   If you’re looking for makeup that’s as pretty in its packaging as it is on your skin, we recommend spoiling her with Pretty By Flormar’s Baked Bronzer (R139.95), Baked Blush (R164.95) or Baked Highlighter(R149.95). Produced via special baking technology, these products add a beautiful luminous glow to the skin and are richly pigmented. A great quality blush brush like the Real Techniques Blush Brush (R246.99) is the perfect companion to a pretty blusher.

Prima Baby

CHICCO 2-IN-1 ELECTRIC STERILISER

Chicco is a full 360-degree approach to all things baby. Every item that comes from Chicco is vigorously tested through the Chicco Observatory Laboratory in Como, Italy for perfect quality control. Chicco has been a leading name in the baby products industry for over 63 years and continues to stand by its commitment to parents globally to provide the best products so they can #parentmore and enjoy life. The Chicco 2-in-1 Electric steriliser is one of the best-selling items from the Chicco Nursing catalogue. Using steam for its efficacy, the steriliser works in minutes to neutralise all household germs from your little ones bottles, teats, teethers and cups. If the steriliser remains closed, it offers 24-hour protection against germs. A practical solution that only takes water and a few minutes to work, it even has a Safe stop function that will naturally turn the machine off if forgotten. Look for the Chicco 2-in-1 Electric Steriliser and rest assured you are doing the very best for your little ones health and safety. Also available in a microwave version that works on the same principle. Available at Takealot, Loot, Clicks Baby Club, AZ Baby, Babanino, The Kid Zone and various other retails now.

Tilda Timmers

THIS IS POSTPARTUM: A message for Maternal Mental Health Week

Have you just had a baby and feel ashamed that you’re not feeling as blissful as you thought you would be? Do you feel afraid and alone? Do you feel like no one understands you, or that people think you’re not a good mother?  Do you cry with pain during breastfeeding but grit your teeth because of your mother-in-law’s comments? Do you scroll through endless Happy Mummy Instagram accounts, wondering what the hell is wrong with you? If you answered yes to any of these questions, please know you’re not alone. Whether or not your symptoms fit a specific diagnosis, the bottom line is this: You don’t feel your best right now, and you want to feel better. Being a mum is hard. For every woman. Even the ones who look like they’ve got it totally sorted. (Especially those ones?) After giving birth to my oldest daughter, Livia, I was as far from that image of a proud, radiant new mum on cloud nine as it is possible to be. I felt like my throat was being squeezed and I couldn’t get any air—like I was slowly drowning. It was as if someone had thrown a huge, dark blanket over me. When I looked at my baby, I was both madly in love with her and filled with terror. What if something happens to her? The anxiety was oppressive and I became more insecure every day. I didn’t know what to do about how I felt and, bit by bit, I lost myself. Eventually I was diagnosed with postpartum depression (PPD). Wanting to be the perfect mother had paralysed me. What makes PPD worse is that it’s so hard to talk about. But speaking out is vital. That’s why I’m advocating for Maternal Mental Health Week in May to be a globally recognised day for talking about the challenges new parents face when their baby is born. Causes of PPD The risk of a woman suffering from depression triples in the first month after delivery, compared with childless women of the same age. Fluctuating hormones make mothers more vulnerable to depression, but difficult psychosocial conditions also increase susceptibility. Such conditions might be one of the following: You have a bad relationship with your parents. You have lost your mother or a key figure in your life. Your parents or close family live far away. You want to keep everything under control. You have very high expectations of yourself and of life in general. You have an argument with people in your social circle. You have problems at work. You have financial difficulties or debts. You are in a toxic relationship and/or have experienced domestic violence. You have had mental health issues in the past. Signs of postpartum depression (if these symptoms last longer than 2 to 4 weeks, ask for help immediately) You’re irritable. You can barely concentrate. You feel dejected. You sleep badly, even when your baby is asleep. You eat a lot or very little. You think about suicide or death. You have difficulty concentrating and making decisions. You lose interest in the world around you and no longer enjoy the things that used to give you pleasure. You feel that everything takes a lot of effort; you don’t want to be asked for anything. You feel that you’re outside of life. You have negative thoughts and feelings about motherhood. You cry a lot and often during the day. You’re unreasonable and unkind to people in your immediate environment (family, friends, colleagues, etc.). You feel incredibly insecure and you put an enormous amount of pressure on yourself. You experience intrusive thoughts. For example: You vividly visualise throwing your baby down the stairs or choking your child. It’s important to know that many women can also suffer from prenatal depression during their pregnancy. It’s thought that lack of social support and presence of marital discord may increase the likelihood of this type of depression. Sadly, this is currently a neglected topic, with little research from which to draw guidelines and recommendations. Much more work needs to be done in this area. However, many of the recommendations given to women with postpartum depression are also relevant if you’re suffering from depression before you’ve had your baby. Seek help as soon as possible. Talking to someone is a brave and important step. Choose someone you feel comfortable with and tell them what’s bothering you, what you’re up against, and what you’re really embarrassed or ashamed about. Choose someone who can listen well without judgement; someone who accepts you exactly as you are. First choice might be your partner, if you have one, but if you find that too difficult, choose a good friend, your sister, your mother, or that dear neighbour who always gives you good advice. Here are some conversation openers you could use: I don’t need you to say anything, I just need you to listen to me until I’m finished talking. I haven’t been feeling well lately and I think I need professional help. I have a problem that’s been really bothering me, and I’d like to talk to you about it. Ever since I gave birth, I worry all the time and I don’t know how to stop. Maybe the other person will reach out and grab your hand or give you a hug. If you can, try and accept these warm and loving gestures. You deserve it so much. If you’re reading this, please speak up. Please share your story at home, with loved ones, friends, and the new moms you meet. Maternal Mental Health Week is from May 3-9 and World Maternal Mental Health Day is May 5. Join us in campaigning for this day to be a globally recognised day dedicated to talking about the challenges new parents face when their baby is born. You’re invited to get real about motherhood by sharing photos and posts on social media that show the real face of motherhood. Hashtag  #maternalMHmatters #MMHWeek2021 and #MakingOverMotherhood to draw

Parenting Hub

Why We Love Eggs When Weaning

The first bath. The first sleepover at granny. The first giggle. And now, the first taste of food as you wean your baby onto solid foods. Too low in energy, protein and minerals like iron and zinc, the ability of breastmilk alone to meet the increasing nutritional needs of a growing baby starts to become limited. The World Health Organisation1, supported by the South African Department of Health2, encourages that babies start solid food from six months. This is an optimal time when your baby’s gut and kidneys are physiologically mature enough to handle this newfound solid food. Starting solids can be very confusing for parents with questions like what to eat, how much and when?  With all this concern, the good news is there is one less food to worry about – eggs. Nutritious, delicious, affordable, and highly versatile, the simple egg is an easy and suitable option to introduce to your baby from early on in your weaning journey. Allergy Awareness Many parents understandably worry about introducing potentially allergenic foods like eggs to their baby’s diet. The truth is that the risk of food allergies is far less common than believed – a mere 3 in 100 children, according to local data.3 Despite this, many parents choose to delay the introduction of food allergens. The opposite is recommended though. Baby experts now suggest that parents introduce potential allergenic foods as soon as weaning is started. Supporting this is the fact that the early introduction of eggs to a baby’s diet is associated with reduced egg allergy risk, according to research.4,5,6 Brain Boost Findings from a South American study7 suggests that eating eggs early in childhood could contribute to healthy brain development and function. Researchers think that this is because of choline, an important nutrient for optimal brain and nervous system function. Did you know that just one egg contains all the choline that a weaning baby of six months needs? Eggs also package other key nutrients for brain health, like protein, iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and biotin. Grow Baby, Grow There is a lot of research showing that egg-eating youngsters may have better growth and development.8 This is linked to diets low in choline possibly increasing stunting in young children. The early introduction of eggs, one of the best food sources of choline, can greatly improve a baby’s growth. Added to this, we know that eggs are high in good quality protein. Protein provides the building blocks for muscle, growth, and a healthy immune system for growing, busy little bodies.  Now while good growth is important, maintaining a healthy weight is just as key. Worrisome local statistics show that boys who are obese at 4 – 8 years are 20 times more likely to become obese teenagers and girls who are obese at 4 – 8 years are 42 times more likely.9 In a 2015 study, when children (aged 8 – 12 years) had eggs for breakfast, 32% reported feeling fuller and 14% felt less hungry, which is why eggs may help manage weight in older children.10 Whether plain or mixed with vegetables and cheese, well-cooked whole eggs are recommended for your baby’s diet. Omelettes, scrambled eggs or French toast, these easy egg recipes will be a great start to your child’s journey of healthy eating. Remember, it’s important to always offer your baby age-appropriate purees and soft foods, which will differ from young babies just starting out with solids to older babies with more practice in their newfound eating skills. Like EGGcellentFood on Facebook and follow us on Instagram eggcellentfoodsa , for further information visit www.sapoultry.co.za SCRAMBLED EGG Serves: 1 Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 3 – 4 minutes Ingredients: 1 egg 2 tablespoons milk 1 teaspoon (5g) butter Method: Combine the egg and milk in a small bowl and whisk. Heat the butter in a small non-stick frying pan, cook the egg mixture over a low heat stirring until cooked. Do not use a high temperature or the egg will burn and stick to the pan.  Transfer to plate and allow to cool slightly before serving, always test the temperature of the food before giving to baby. BASIC OMELETTE Serves: 1 Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 3 – 4 minutes Ingredients: 2 eggs 2 tablespoons milk 1 teaspoon (5g) butter Optional – 50g white cheddar or a small portion of cooked, soft vegetables e.g., mushrooms, onion or spinach. Method: Combine the egg and milk in a small bowl and whisk. Heat the butter in a small non-stick frying pan, cook the egg mixture over a low heat. Do not use a high temperature or the egg will burn and stick to the pan.   Using a spatula “pull” the egg mixture gently to the centre of the pan, do this until the egg is cooked and the omelette set, it will look like a thick pancake.  If adding cheese or vegetables, add now.  Fold the omelette over. Transfer to a plate and allow to cool slightly, cut into bite sized pieces before serving. Always test the temperature of the food before giving to baby. FRENCH TOAST WITH BLUEBERRIES Serves: 1 Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 5 – 6 minutes Ingredients: 1 egg 2 tablespoons milk ½ teaspoon vanilla essence  Small pinch cinnamon 1 slice day old bread 1 tablespoon (15g) butter or oil Method: In a bowl, mix together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla essence. Heat the butter or oil in a non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. Dip bread into egg mixture and coat both sides well. Put dipped bread into hot pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden. Serve warm with a spoonful of cream cheese or with sliced banana or blueberries. Tip: You can use up any leftover bread for this recipe. Try sliced French bread, fruit loaf or multigrain bread for something different. References 1.      World Health Organisation. Guiding principles on for complementary feeding of the breastfed child. 2001. Available from:https://www.who.int/nutrition/publications/guiding_principles_compfeeding_breastfed.pdf. Accessed 29 March 2021. 2.      Department of Health, South Africa. Infant and Young

Hannah Brauninger Occupational Therapy

Let’s Talk Left-Handedness

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

RediscoverDairy

Dairy and Children: A healthy Combination

Good nutrition affects children’s health and well-being throughout their development, from the time of conception right up to adolescence. Encouraging healthy eating and exercise patterns in childhood already sets the stage for habits that will endure throughout their life. The key to health Registered dietitian at Rediscover Dairy, Maretha Vermaak, says: “Eating well helps children develop lively minds and strong, active bodies, improving their ability to listen and concentrate.’  A healthy eating pattern includes a variety of foods across all the food groups.”  Consider these guidelines to give children the energy and nutrients they need: Offer plenty of vegetables and fruit every day and include beans and legumes in meals at least three times a week.  Make unrefined and minimally processed starchy foods part of most meals to ensure sustained energy. These include wholegrain bread, cereals or porridge and root vegetables such as potatoes and sweet potatoes. Include milk, amasi or yoghurt in every day’s meals and use other dairy products such as cheese and flavoured milk to help children meet their calcium needs. Lean meat, fish, chicken, eggs or meat alternatives such as peanut butter or cheese can be eaten daily. Dairy: a source of essential nutrients for children Dairy products are an important part of a healthy balanced diet, helping to improve our overall nutrient status. Health authorities across the world recommend daily consumption of milk and dairy products during all life stages. Children and adolescents specifically are encouraged to have 3–4 servings of dairy every day. Milk and other dairy foods deliver a unique package of many nutrients important for children’s development. These include high-quality protein, minerals such as calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc and iodine, and vitamins A, B12 and B2. Having dairy products also contributes to good physical and cognitive development, keeping healthy and establishing good eating habits for life. During childhood and adolescence, bones need high-quality protein and calcium to become strong. Dairy products such as milk, amasi, yoghurt and cheese are naturally rich in both these nutrients.  High-quality protein in milk and dairy foods contains many essential amino acids and bioactive ingredients, which help children grow and develop strong, healthy muscle tissue.  Dairy is for everyone There is a dairy product to suit everyone’s taste and dietary preferences. Here are some easy tips for making 3 servings of dairy part of your family’s daily diet: Have cereal with milk or flavoured milk at breakfast. Make a fruit smoothie using fresh fruit, yoghurt and milk. Cheese and yoghurt are convenient snack options. Have cold milk, flavoured milk or drinking yoghurt instead of cold drinks or energy drinks. Prepare sauces with milk or amasi or add them to soup. Stir smooth cottage cheese into soup or mashed potatoes. Spread cottage cheese on wholewheat bread or rolls.  Enjoy fresh fruit together with cubes of cheese.

Advtech Group

Anxiety at school: helping your child survive and thrive

Anxiety at school is not a new phenomenon; however, educators and parents alike recognise that there has been a significant increase in the prevalence of anxiety among children in the past year, as a result of Covid-19, pandemic lockdowns, and measures to ensure the safety of children who are back at school or in the process of returning.  Anxiety is not to be dismissed or taken lightly, but the good news is that parents and teachers can take steps to ensure they firstly, recognise red flags in children and then respond appropriately, should there be concerns that a child is taking strain emotionally, an education expert says. “Teachers and parents can recognise the onset of anxiety when a sudden change in behaviour becomes apparent and continues for at least three weeks or longer,” says Dr Jacques Mostert who holds a PhD in Psychology of Education and is Brand Academic Manager at ADvTECH, SA’s leading private education provider. Dr Mostert is globally renowned in his field, and has conducted experiential research in education in Denmark, the UK, South Africa and The Netherlands. He says some of the signs to look out for include inattention and restlessness; attendance problems and clingy kids; disruptive behaviour that is not typical of the young person; trouble answering questions in class; an increase in problems generally, which could include a marked downturn in academic performance in certain subjects where usually there wasn’t a problem and if non-neurotypical difficulties are ruled out, such as ADHD or dyslexia. Finally, if a child starts avoiding socialising or group work, attention must be paid.  “Anxiety is your body’s normal reaction to perceived danger or important events,” says Dr Mostert. “It is like your body’s internal alarm system that is set to alert you of dangers that may be life threatening and it helps your body to prepare to deal with danger. However, your internal alarm is not very good at recognising whether the danger you may face is indeed life threatening or not. For example, your body reacts by becoming nervous about being late to school and seeing a big spider in the bathroom in the same way. Neither are likely to cause real damage, yet your body remains alert and ready to run away in either case.”  Dr Mostert says anxiety or feeling nervous are normal emotions and can be expected during times of transition and change, especially during times of unprecedented disruption like the current Covid-19 pandemic. “The news and social media are filled with reports of the danger of Covid-19, the virility of the virus and how to stay safe from infection. This is especially true for children and teens going back to school after their normal routines have been disrupted. Even young children who don’t watch news still pick up on the concerns of the adults around them, and constantly have safety measures reinforced in a way they were not before 2020.” Many parents also remain concerned regarding children’s safety from the virus at school. “While you as parent may be stressed about safety and Covid-19 safety procedures, this can be put in context by considering the excellent track records of schools where children have returned.” If a parent has concerns about the anxiety of a child following the identification of symptoms which persist over weeks, they need to start tackling the problem at home, as the first line of response, says Dr Mostert. “Routine is key in this. The first important step is to reinstate regular routines, including in the morning and evening. Nobody copes well when they are tired or hungry. Anxious children often don’t feel like eating breakfast, they might not feel hungry, or become nauseous after eating breakfast, so start making sure that your child gets back in the habit of getting some nutrition before heading to school. “Also, make sure that your child wakes up early enough to avoid rushing to get to school. This of course means that you must ensure that your child goes to bed early enough, at a regular time. If your child spends hours before going to sleep on a device or social media, this is a habit that needs to end. It is not healthy for children or adults, for that matter.” Dr Mostert notes that if a child becomes unusually quiet, or starts to ramble, this can also be an indication that they are anxious about returning to school.  “Children often seek reassurance that bad things won’t happen in order to reduce their worry. Rather than dismissing this behavior or becoming frustrated with them, acknowledge their fears. Avoid making light of their (and your own) anxiety by, for instance, saying there’s nothing to be worried about or that they’ll be fine. Instead, listen to them, acknowledge their feelings, and encourage your child to work through ways of solving their concerns with your assistance.” In addition, there are practical ways to deal with anxiety in the moment, which include: Practising deep breathing Taking a break and going outside Talking about anxiety openly and objectively Getting moving Walking and talking Practising positive thinking and keeping a gratitude journal Trying to eat as healthy as is possible and drinking enough water “When dealing with an anxious child, it is very important not to lecture or interrupt them, or to jump to conclusions or mock their fears. “Instead, practise being a good listener, remain positive and retain a sense of humour, give positive feedback and reinforcement, aim to see fears from the child’s perspective. Helping your child through anxious periods is possible and an important part of their growth towards maturity. And, if your own efforts to help them do not yield results, there are many qualified and compassionate professionals who can help child and family get back on track. “Adults should keep in mind that they play an important role in supporting children during this time to direct attention away from the concerns about friends, teachers, homework and Covid-19, by instead directing their thoughts toward the positives of seeing their friends,

Lamelle Research Laboratories

Trust Lamelle for Mother’s Day pampering with REAL results

Raising a little person is one of the most rewarding things anyone could do. But it’s also stressful, short on sleep and unrelenting. Also, any mom will be quick to tell you that kids always come first. When you’ve got a “to-do” list as long as your arm, a hot bubble bath or a day trip to a spa isn’t going to be a priority. Happily, you’re finally all grown up, Mother’s Day is fast approaching and it’s a great opportunity to show your mom just how much you appreciate her. Still, while a pamper session is always a welcome gift, why not spoil her with a treatment that makes a visible difference? To help you out, we’ve put together a little list of our favourite and most effective rejuvenating professional treatments to help your mom look and feel her best.  Get your glow on At Lamelle, we’re proud of our reputation as the peel pros. We offer several of them and top pick for more mature skin would include our Alpha Peel and Retistore Peels.  The Alpha Peel makes use of glycolic acid, a popular alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. As it’s a smaller sized molecule, it’ll penetrate more deeply into your mom’s skin. This means it might tingle for five minutes or so, but it isn’t going to be painful. Immediately afterwards, her skin might be a little flushed and sensitive but within minutes she’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous glow and a wonderfully smooth texture. Better yet, an Alpha Peel doesn’t’ involve any downtime. Your mom can get straight back to business as usual, albeit with post-treatment skincare instructions from her therapist.   As far as our Retistore Peels go, you’ll have two to pick from. The original Retistore Peel is less aggressive and suitable for those with darker skin concerned about pigmentation and dullness. Retistore Plus is twice as powerful and best for those with lighter skin that are more worried about lines, wrinkles and sagging. Whichever you choose, both retinol-based peels will serve up full epidermal restructuring with minimal social downtime.  After the application of a five-minute prep solution, your mom’s professional skin therapist will apply the restoration serum that’s to be left on after your mom leaves the salon – for 6 to 12 hours afterwards, depending on the condition of her skin. Don’t worry, neither solutions will tingle but your mom might notice a little sensitivity on the first day following the treatment. Days 2 to 5 might mean a little fine flaking and then, by day 7, she can expect to enjoy plumper, more radiant and very-hydrated looking skin.  Firm it up!  The big difference between younger skin and more mature skin is that the former has a lot more collagen. This is the protein that gives our skin its youthful-looking firmness. As our collagen supplies dwindle as the years march on it’s important to preserve what we’ve got (hello sunscreen!) and encourage what we have to proliferate. One of the best ways to do this is via collagen induction therapy (CIT). This is one of Lamelle’s most popular treatments. It involves using a skin needling device, to create multiple micro-injuries to the skin. (Don’t worry – we use a numbing cream so your mom won’t feel a thing!) This inspires a healing response from your skin and the result is a bloom of fresh, new collagen to replace the old, damaged tissue. The result, after a series of treatments, is an improvement in fines lines, texture and even scarring.  In short, if you’re looking to give your mom a pampering in-salon experience, but want her to enjoy real results – Lamelle has you covered, both for Mother’s Day – as well as forever!   www.lamelle.co.za @lamellersa

Parenting Hub

Shaping your children’s attitude to money

Most parents will agree that teaching children about money is important, but what and how should you be teaching them and at what age? It’s an inherent part of parenting. Most children’s attitudes to money are shaped by their parents, whether you pro-actively pass on information or they just copy what you do. It’s also not something you can leave too late. A University of Cambridge Study, commissioned by the UK’s Money Advice Service, found that in that country children’s money habits are formed by the age of seven.  Shafeeqah Isaacs, head of financial education at financial services provider, DirectAxis, canvassed some of her colleagues with children of different ages about some age-appropriate lessons to help children become financially responsible adults. Age 3 – 5: You can’t always get what you want, right now We live in an era of instant gratification, from takeaway foods to online shopping. While your three-year old isn’t likely to be ordering Uber Eats during naptime, teaching children early that some things are worth waiting for may prevent them racking up credit-card debt on trendy clothes or the latest tech later in life. Set attainable goals. For example, if your child wants a particular toy explain they’ll have to save for it. Have a savings jar or piggy bank into which you can put birthday money or small rewards for helping out, good behaviour or achievements.  Try to set them up for success by making sure the goal is achievable and they don’t have to wait for months and lose sight of what they’re saving for. Each time your child adds money to the saving jar, help him or her count it and work out how much more is needed to reach the goal. Age 6 – 10: You’re responsible for the financial choices you make You can teach your children the basics of financial decision-making by explaining financial priorities. For example, you can tell them how when you get paid, you first need to pay bills such as the home loan or rent. Then you need to buy groceries. If you do this carefully and don’t spend money on things that are too expensive or which you don’t really need, you’ll have some left over. Some of this you can save and some might be used to do something fun together. Practical experience is the best way of driving these lessons home. When they earn pocket money for doing household chores, help them work out a budget. First, they’ll need to pay bills, such as contributing to a pet’s upkeep. Take them along when you buy the groceries. If they want something special get them to contribute to that as part of their grocery spend. Remind them not to spend all their money as they’ll need to save some. Hopefully, if they’ve not spent too much they’ll have a bit left over to treat themselves.  “The point is to give children a practical understanding of how to manage money using examples that are familiar. The more you can do this the better, as they’re far more likely to grasp this than abstract explanations,” says Shafeeqah. Ages 11 – 13: The sooner you start saving the sooner you’ll reach your goals At this stage you can introduce the idea of saving for long-term goals. Perhaps set a goal for something more expensive that he or she really wants. Often at this stage children are reluctant to save because they want to buy things such as snacks at school or more airtime. By setting a bigger goal you can teach them that the opportunity cost – what they need to give up – will enable them to save more and reach their goal faster. You can also teach them about compound interest: how by saving over a longer period, they benefit from the compounding effect because they earn interest on the money they’ve saved as well as the accumulated interest. For more information about compound interest visit: https://www.directaxis.co.za/find-an-answer/what-is-compound-interest Of course, when saving larger amounts of money, it’s sensible and safer to replace the piggy bank or savings jar with a bank account. Some banks, such as FNB, offer no-fee transactional accounts for children. This will also teach them how to manage a bank account. Ages 14 – 18: Understand how to borrow sensibly As children grow up their earning potential increases. They may graduate from doing household chores to getting a casual job. Typically, their expenses also increase. They may want to buy a scooter or motorbike to get around or even save towards a car.  At some point they’ll probably ask to borrow money. When they do, set a goal in terms of what they’ll need to earn before you’ll match them or lend them the remainder. Work out a reasonable period for the loan and a repayment schedule and charge them moderate interest. Explain there’ll be penalties if they miss payments and that you’ll also be less likely to lend them money in future. While they may not immediately appreciate it, you’re teaching them the benefits of paying what they owe and also how to build a good credit record. As they get older you can use a similar approach to teach them the difference between good and bad credit, such as loans to fund tertiary studies or start a business as opposed to borrowing money to fund an unaffordable lifestyle.  As a parent, teaching children about money isn’t something you’ll ever stop doing. Perhaps the most important lesson of all is to remember that you are a role model. “If you’ve ever heard a child use a grown-up word or expression they didn’t learn in school, you know they suck up everything around them. The same applies to how they learn about money. Remember that and the influence you have not just in terms of what you teach them, but your own financial behaviour,” says Shafeeqah.

Parenting Hub

COVID19: health & cleaning tips for pre-schools and childcare centres

There has been a lot of debate around small children and the role they play in the spread of Covid-19. With earlier studies suggesting that children do not contribute much to the spread of coronavirus, new studies are now showing that children could be capable of spreading infection. According to the South African Paediatric Association, children without underlying conditions are less likely to get sick if infected by the virus or will show milder symptoms such as low-grade fever, fatigue, and cough compared to adults. “As the saying goes, rather be safe than sorry. While the debate goes on there are many parents who find themselves in a catch twenty-two situation, having to go back to the office or being an essential worker and having to make sure their young children are taken care of in a safe environment,” says Emma Corder, Managing Director of industrial cleaning products manufacturer Industroclean. So, what are the steps that need to be taken to make sure that the entire family stays safe during these times? Corder says regardless of the current debate about the effects that the virus can have on younger children, the issue of hygiene in childcare facilities has been topical long before the pandemic arrived on our shores. Anyone that is concerned about the health and safety and wellbeing of children, parents and staff members would agree that the most important step is to reduce the spread of germs and to clean throughout the day. For Parents: “Before making the decision to send your child to back to childcare facilities, talk to your paediatrician or family doctor. We can help you make the best choice based on your child’s medical and immunization history, your family circumstances, and by checking that your child’s growth and development is on track,” says Western Cape based paediatrician Dr Tamryn Phelps. She adds that making frequent hand washing a norm in your household is a must, as children learn by example. Next is connecting with the caregiver: you want to be comfortable with how the centre plans to clean and disinfect, screen children and staff for symptoms, and handle illness. For playschools: Creating a clean and hygienically safe play centre that hosts very young children with little understanding on following instructions and who spend more time on the floor, will require you to clean and disinfect open spaces: Develop your plan.  Implement your plan. Maintain and revise your plan. It is also key for teachers and caregivers to know the difference between cleaning, disinfecting and sanitizing, when it comes to creating a clean and safe home and play centre. Cleaning involves the physical removal of dirt, germs and debris by scrubbing with soap or detergent and water. Disinfecting and sanitizing, on the other hand, involves the application of a recommended product cleaner that specifies that it kills 99.9% of germs. What are the correct or appropriate products to use in the workplace and around the home, and does this differ when you are cleaning a play centre area? “The overuse of bleach can also have side effects on children. Most bleach products remain on surfaces and may emit fumes if not used correctly, also bringing with it the risk of possibly causing respiratory illness. This means it is critical that you follow the precise instructions on how to dilute and use the chemicals,” explains Corder. It should also be taken into account that cleaning and sanitising will be done more frequently, so plan accordingly, and ensure staff including the kitchen staff undergo comprehensive training on the correct procedures to be followed. Remember these best cleaning practices: Prepare for cleaning and disinfecting. Correct PPE for cleaning. Use all chemicals correctly. Cleaning equipment must be clean. Do the Job. Clean from top to bottom. For normal cleaning use the spray and wipe method. Colour code all cleaning materials to prevent cross contamination. End of Task Dispose of dirty water and waste according to safe procedures. Wash and dry all equipment before storing it in a clean space. Dispose of all PPE wear before washing up. Play Areas: Identify detergents best suited for play area equipment. Consult manuals that came with the play area equipment for information on how to best care for it. Outdoor playground equipment should be pressure washed at least once quarterly, to get rid of grime that builds up, especially on equipment like swings and monkey bars. References: ·         https://paediatrician.co.za/position-statements

Impaq

You’ve got a friend in me

Friendship is essential at almost every age, and making friends is an important developmental goal for children. In fact, making friends creates important contexts in which children can learn and practice social, communicative, and emotional development skills. The 5 Cs of friendship for children Compassion: Children who have close friends learn to have compassion and empathy for others because they build a meaningful friendship beyond surface-level social skills. Empathy and compassion are the roots of kindness, and children who learn the importance of these skills tend to be friendly and kind to others. Confidence: Friendships help children build self-esteem and can even provide a barrier against bullying. Healthy friendships can also empower children as it turns peer pressure into a positive force.  Conflict resolution: When conflicts inevitably arise, it can be difficult for children. But getting their feelings hurt and making mistakes is all part of the learning process. Not only is it normal for children to argue at times, but it is also a valuable learning opportunity as it teaches them to listen to and respect other points of view. Courage: When children have a friend to confide in as they ride the rollercoaster of childhood, they are better able to cope with and bounce back from challenges and setbacks. In addition, they learn to face problems and work through issues together.  Connection:Growing up, children deal with several stresses and worries. They may struggle to verbalise their feelings and, as such, may choose to keep their emotions to themselves. Having close friends afford children the opportunity to work through their worries and stress with someone who can relate. Developing a deep connection with another child in this way can be very powerful for children. Let them be themselves  Although friendship is an integral part of life, not all children need or want many friends. While some children are outgoing and love to have a lot of friends, others are more suited to having one close friend or a small social circle. It is important to let your child be who they are and celebrate their unique personality and specific needs.  If your child struggles socially or has trouble making and keeping friends, there is no need to worry. It may simply be that they have not had enough opportunities to make friends. Getting children involved in activities with children their age who have similar interests can be a great way to find friends for your child. However, when taking this approach, be sensitive to your child’s energy level and personality.  Also read: Can homeschoolers take part in extracurricular activities? Gifted children often have problems making friends with children their own age and may prefer to be around adults. Of course, a medical condition such as anxiety, ADHD, autism, or selective mutism could also affect your child’s social relationships. Finally, if your child suffers from stress, depression, a learning disability, or even bullying, this too could influence their ability to establish friendships. Teen friendships As children become teenagers, friendships become increasingly important. During their teenage years, children are figuring out who they are beyond the family. It is crucial for them to feel a sense of belonging and acceptance from their peers.   As with younger children, shared interests, attitudes, social struggles and being in circumstances that may resemble their own are some of the foundations for teen friendships. In adolescence, having close connections can help teens learn about trust, respect, acceptance, and intimacy, all of which are important concepts to understand as they enter adulthood. Also read: What to do when your teen wants to start dating Of course, close friendships also offer a host of other benefits for teens, including: Improved self-esteem. Lower rates of anxiety and depression. Stronger emotional regulation skills. A happier, more optimistic outlook. Greater empathy towards others. Feelings of trust. Better cognitive function. Remember that friendships – at any age – are full of ups and downs. So, if your child or teen is going through a slump, try not to be too worried. Making friends and being a good friend are skills that can be learned, so focus on helping them build and practise their friendship skills.  By Danielle Barfoot

Parenting Hub

Interview questions to ask a prospective employer

Ensuring that you are thoroughly prepared for an interview is one of the most essential things to do if you’re looking to land a new job. Even though these initial meetings can be unnerving, knowing what interview questions to ask a hiring manager will help you feel and look prepared. Employers want to establish whether you are the right candidate for the role during interview sessions. But it is equally as important to find out if the company is the right fit for you. That being said, Adzuna, an online job aggregator, put together a list of important questions all job seekers should ask during the interview. A roundup of the most important interview questions to ask Meeting the interviewer The hiring manager or interviewer is the first point of contact you’ll have with the company, so it’s a good idea to get to know them and understand their role. Here are some basic questions you can ask them after introductions are out of the way: What does a typical workday look like for you? What do you love most about your job? Do you have any specific goals for yourself, your team, or the company over the next five years? Defining your role Some job descriptions are pretty concise, so be careful not to ask about topics that might have already been covered in the original ad. But beyond general duties, here are some questions that can help you uncover finer details about the job: What can I expect my first week on the job to look like? How does the role I’m applying for contribute to the company’s overall success? Are there any shadowing opportunities available to help me better understand the day-to-day responsibilities of the position?  Uncovering the company culture Company culture is a big deal because it influences everything from benefits and perks to office politics. Here’s a look at what you need to gain a better understanding of: What does the work culture look like in this company? Are there any benefits that focus on work-life balance? Do you have a telecommuting policy in place? Are employees expected to work outside of office hours frequently? Digging into company goals You probably already know a little more about the company after doing your homework. Here’s a look at the interview questions to ask to help you dig a little deeper and ensure your goals match with that of the company: What mission does the company have? How do other employees view the company and its management staff? What image do you want to create in the minds of your past, current, and future employees? Measuring the management style If you have a clear understanding of what is expected of employees and how they are managed, it’ll be easier to decide if the role is a match for you. Here’s what to ask: Are employees allowed to assist with goal setting? What is the company’s approach to measuring success? When are employees expected to provide updates on their progress to management? Are employees evaluated on their performance annually? Establishing opportunities for growth Obviously, we all want to grow in our careers, and it is essential to determine if this new position allows for growth. Here are some questions that’ll help you understand just how far this position can take you: Does the company provide training opportunities for its staff to enhance their skills and experience? Are there any advancement opportunities on the table? When it comes to promotions, what are the opportunities? Final Thoughts When preparing your interview questions to ask a hiring manager, keep in mind that the main goal is to determine if the role and company are a good match for your skills and experience. Ask the right questions so you appear enthusiastic and eager to start in the new role. Listen to the answers the interviewer gives you with intent. Quality leaders won’t be afraid to answer meaningful questions and provide potential candidates with the kind of information that’ll help them thrive in the role at hand.

Prima Baby

Tolo Baby Musical Activity TV and Tolo Baby Rainbow Stacker

Tolo Baby is a gorgeous new range of gifting and baby toys that will not only entertain your little one, but educate and assist with development during play. Perfect for baby showers, these beautiful, simple toys bring a touch of class into your little ones life. The Musical Activity TV is perfect from newborn and can be placed in your baby’s crib at eye level to see the bright moving gadgets. The squeaks, rattles, moving dials and abacus create a fantastic way to interact with your little one. As they grow they can touch and use their motor skills to engage with animals and sounds. As they develop they will be able to wind up dials and play music all by themselves. The Rainbow Stacker cups are great from 6 months upwards. Show your infant how to stack the cups and have fun building them and knocking them over. The cups also float in the bath and baby can play by scooping them up and pouring water out. When slightly older the child can start using the cups to understand colour differentiation and word association. Also great for sandcastles at the beach. Beautiful soft colour palettes make Tolo Baby toys suitable for all baby nursery décor and genders. Tolo Baby is available at selected Kids Emporium stores, Takealot, Babanino, Clicks Baby Club, Hamleys and The Kid Zone.

The Baby Academy

Antenatal Advice: The secrets of sleep in pregnancy

Spoiler alert….A lifetime of being obsessed with sleep starts now!Whatever your stage of pregnancy, chances are your sleep has been somewhat interrupted. Be it nausea, restless legs, inexplicable temperature fluctuations, or night time baby disco, the obstacles to a good nights shut-eye can seem endless. To learn about how to put baby your baby safely to bed, you can sign up for our Free Baby Care Workshop, where our expert Midwife will give you all the information you need. You can book your place here.  Here I’ll share my top tips, as a Midwife and mum, to getting the best night’s sleep possible. Smart hydration. Getting 2 litres of water every day is extra essential in pregnancy. Being well hydrated fends off dizziness and keeps the bowel happy, but night time wee trips are bound to disturb your sleep. The effects of hormones on the bladder in early pregnancy and the increased blood flow in later pregnancy mean the urinary system is in overdrive. Try to get your intake in earlier in the day, keeping fluids to a minimum from 2 hours before bed to reduce nocturnal loo trips. Whatever the time of year, pregnant women usually feel warmer than usual at night. This can cause night time disagreements with partners as the duvet is discarded and windows flung open. Try sleeping on top of your normal duvet with a light tog single duvet or sheet just for you, while your other half stays cosy. Lone sleepers have the luxury of kitting the bed out to suit them; try light layers that can be peeled off as required. Restless legs and cramps are common in pregnancy. Again, hydration in the day is crucial, and there is significant research to show that magnesium supplementation will aid in leg cramps and is safe in pregnancy. Most pregnancy multivitamins contain 40-50% of the recommended daily intake of magnesium, and additional dietary intake should also help in the form of foods like green leafy vegetables such as spinach, nuts and seeds and dark chocolate (yay) Invest in a maternity pillow. These need little explanation; just treat yourself! Supporting your bump, helping you get comfortable on your side (blood flow to baby is best on your left side due to the anatomy of your vascular system), which will double up as a breastfeeding pillow, even a baby nest when little one is just learning to sit up and needs some crash mats! If nausea is an issue for you, keeping a small snack by the bed will usually help. If you feel sick at night, an empty tummy makes matters worse. A plain biscuit or salty cracker to nibble on should settle the ill feeling. If nausea is new or is accompanied by pain or a temperature, get to your GP without delay. You could have a kidney infection—the joy. Insomnia in later pregnancy is very common, even when no obvious cause can be identified. You’ve done all your troubleshooting, and you’re still lying awake! Some say it’s mother nature preparing new Mums for night feeds. Whatever the cause, it’s exhausting. When many Mums are working until 38 weeks, switching to herbal tea like camomile is a good idea and has some relaxation tracks ready. Try not to get too stressed about not sleeping, and remember to talk to your Midwife or GP at your next antenatal visit if you feel you are sleep deprived; you may need some time off work. To learn more about sleep and a whole host of other topics, please join us at our Free Baby Care Workshop, where our Expert Midwife will talk through topics such as how to care for your baby’s cord, nails and how to put baby to sleep safely. You can book your free place here.

RediscoverDairy

Dairy hacks to get more goodness, for much less

Winter is approaching in this second year of the pandemic, and the ongoing threat of COVID infection combined with the advent of colds and flu season has us doubling down on the best ways to support immune function.   While no foods or dietary supplements can prevent COVID-19 infection, good nutrition plays a significant role in building a strong and healthy immune system. Wholesome dairy products play an important role in healthy diets, and this is why dairy is recommended by food-based dietary guidelines around the world. Evidence from ongoing research suggests that nutrient-rich dairy products can support a healthy immune system. These nutrients found in dairy, are important for optimal immune function:  High-quality protein  Vitamin A Zinc Selenium Vitamin B12 In addition, many fermented dairy products contain active bacterial cultures such as probiotics, which may support healthy gut microbiota. The gut microbiome plays an essential role in building and maintaining the immune system. In our efforts to prevent sickness in the family, it makes sense to ensure that dairy is part of our daily eating regime.  However, infrequent shopping trips due to COVID, as well as budget constraints may well be impacting on how much dairy is available in the home.  Rediscover Dairy has shared these hacks to help you easily get dairy in your family’s diet, at least three times a day, for less. Dairy budget hacks Across the many dairy options available, there are quality products across a wide range of price points.  If your budget has got tighter, check out the more affordable dairy ranges – you certainly don’t have to choose a luxury, or even mid-priced cheese to give your family a delicious cheesy meal or snack.   Shop the specials and buy cheaper bulk or ‘two for one’ options whenever you can:   Larger tubs of yoghurt often offer more value for money and can be decanted into smaller containers for a snack or lunchtime treat.  Although yoghurt has a long fridge life, if you do find you have surplus it freezes well and makes fantastic healthy frozen treats, such as iced lollies for kids. Big blocks of hard cheeses such as cheddar and gouda usually offer good value for money.  Grate it all before its use-by-date and freeze the surplus in smaller quantities for quick and easy use.   Butter is frequently on special, enabling you to buy extra units which you can freeze. Dairy storage hacks Food waste is a major drain on the household budget, so actively prevent dairy foods from going to waste in your house through meal planning and proper storage.   Fresh milk, fresh cream, sour cream, butter, maas, buttermilk, yoghurt and many cheeses can all be frozen so that they’re available for much longer than the use-by-dates: Fresh milk freezes well but should be defrosted in the fridge.  Cream, sour cream, maas and buttermilk can be frozen, but are best used for cooking once defrosted.  If you have reduced your shopping trips because of COVID, buy long-life dairy products that can be stored over the long term in the pantry.  There’s a range of long-life milks available, as well as long-life cream.   Glass jar cheese spreads can be kept in the pantry until they are opened, and then still have a long life in the fridge.  They are not only good for snacks and sandwiches but can be used in cheeses sauces and as toppings. Substitute longer life dairy products – for instance, fermented dairy products such as buttermilk, maas, yoghurt and kefir naturally have longer fridge shelf life than fresh dairy products due to the activity of the gut friendly bacteria.  They can all be great substitutes for fresh milk in many baking and bread recipes.  You can also easily find many delicious recipes where they are the featured wet ingredient. Store cheeses in a dry, airtight container in the fridge.  Add a paper towel to absorb any moisture.  If mould does develop on the outside of cheese, simply slice it off at a depth of 0.5 to 1cm. Give new life to the natural rinds of hard cheeses such as pecorino or parmesan by adding them to your winter soups while cooking.  They are completely edible, and as they simmer in the broth impart a delicious umami, cheesy flavour.  Do-it-yourself cottage cheese The whole family loves cottage cheese and it is incredibly easy to make at home, using only two ingredients! You will need: 2 litres full-cream milk 500 ml maas A muslin or cheese cloth Method: Mix together the milk and maas and cover. Let it stand in a warm place and allow to curdle. Do not stir. This process can take up to 24 hours, so be patient. Line a colander with the clean muslin cloth or cotton dishtowel and suspend it over a bowl.  Once your mixture has curdled, gently ladle the curds into the lined colander to strain the curds from the whey over the course of the next few hours. Gently stir the curds every so often to help it along. Scoop the cottage cheese into a clean bowl, cover and refrigerate. It is ready for use. You can add flavours of your own choice for savoury or sweet uses.   Homemade cottage cheese can be the star of a delicious and healthy breakfast or lunch.  For more delicious, dairy-inspired family treats visit https://www.rediscoverdairy.co.za/resources-and-tools-2/tasty-treats/

Parenting Hub

Disappearing Careers: What to do if your job vanishes!

According to Oxford Economics, disappearing careers is something we all need to pay attention to. Tens of millions of jobs are at risk of being lost to AI, particularly those in the manufacturing and service industries. Experts forecast that software, advanced robotics, and other tech will replace human employees with computerised counterparts that are speedier and cheaper. On top of the robots, disappearing careers will also be fast-tracked by economic downturns and outsourcing, creating unstable environments for workers across a wide range of industries. Could your livelihood be at stake? If that is the case, you’re probably less interested in the way than what actions you can take to prepare. The online job aggregator Adzuna gives us a look at what to do if your job is on the line. Tips for planning a new career #1 Make an income-generating plan Instead of searching for another full-time job, be on the lookout for ways to make money in the short term. If you’re a probable victim of disappearing jobs, this is even more important. To make money while you’re busy figuring out your longer-term plans, here are a few options you might want to consider: Temporary jobs – Seasonal or temporary jobs can fill a financial gap and help you stay active and relevant in the job market. Gig work – On-demand apps like Uber offer flexible employment opportunities for drivers, shoppers, babysitters, virtual assistants, and more. These jobs are typically easy to schedule around other jobs and responsibilities, making them ideal pocket fillers. #2 Upskill ASAP If your transferable skills and experience can’t help you bridge the gap between your current role and the impending AI takeover, improving your employability score might be the solution. Completing certificate programs can get you into other high-paying positions like web development. Typically, these programs take a few months to complete and cost significantly less than an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. #3 Craft a long-term plan It may make sense to go back to university and gain additional degrees or certifications. But you might also be able to develop new career skills on the job too. Whatever direction you take, it really pays to investigate your options and make time to build a new career path. Here’s what career-planning includes: Self-assessment: You need to have a solid understanding of your interests, aptitudes, and values to find the perfect new career. Online assessments like 123Test and Career Explorer are great tools that can give you a push in the right direction. Research: After you’ve come up with a list of possible occupations, you need to do your homework. You can search specific job titles on Adzuna to discover data pertaining to average salaries and where these jobs are geographically located. Exploration: Now is the time to leverage your network so you can learn more about what it’s like to do the jobs you have in mind. Get as much as possible information about the little-known truth about these jobs and insider tips to succeed in each of them. Get ready to grow! People between the ages of 18 and 52 change jobs about 12 times during their working lives. There are already hundreds of disappearing jobs, a problem created by the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, and during these turbulent economic times, it’s a safe bet that most of these are involuntary. To thrive (and not just make it to the other side), you must brace for sudden career shifts and a gradual change in requirements. The skills you use to do your job today might be obsolete tomorrow. Your safest bet is to keep upskilling and plan for a lifetime of growing and learning. Every career will eventually change, even if it doesn’t happen abruptly, so you need to be ready to change with yours!

Parenting Hub

Buy less and experience more in 2021

If anything, COVID-19 has taught us that life is short. It is important to make the most of our time by living a fulfilling life, doing the things that bring us joy, with the people we love. Rioma Cominelli, Director at First Loyalty Plus, believes that material possessions are fleeting, but the memories that come from our experience together, last forever. “Memories come from experiences, adventures, and the time we spend together. They are far more valuable than any item we will buy.” Research shows that when we buy something new, we believe it will make us happier. And, it may for a while. “We’ve all felt it; the excitement of saving for a big-ticket item, the elation that comes with finally buying it and the joy you feel when you use it for the first time. Over time, however, we adapt to having it in our lives, and the delight it once brought us, wears off,” Rioma explains.  Research also reveals that whilst people’s satisfaction with the things they bought goes down over time, their satisfaction with experiences they spent money on, goes up. “Things get old, they break and get thrown out, but experiences connect us and form part of who we are.” Whilst some experiences cost nothing, like hiking up a mountain with close friends or having beach days or park days with the children. Others, like holidays, hot air ballooning or meals out have a price tag attached. “So,” Rioma says, “in order to have enough money to spend on new experiences that will leave you with memories to cherish and stories to tell, you need to spend less on stuff. It’s a simple equation: buy less to experience more.” She offers these three ways to buy less and experience more in 2021: 1. Stop unnecessary shopping: Have you ever walked into the shop for one specific item, only to come out with a full trolley? You can overcome this hurdle by leaving your card at home and only taking enough money to purchase the item/s on your list (yes, you need to also shop with a list!) If you are someone who can’t resist a good sale (whether you need the items or not), unsubscribe from all your favourite store newsletters and avoid ‘wondering’ around malls at all costs! Get in and out as fast as possible to reduce temptation. 2. Be content with what you have: The first step to being content with what you have is to stop comparing yourself to others. And then, shift your mindset by writing all the things that you are grateful for — it could be as simple as having a roof over your head, a bed to sleep in, or clothes in your cupboard. After writing everything down, you will be surprised at how much you actually have. Practice this exercise often, and you will get into the habit of contentment soon enough. When you realise that all you have in your life is enough, the urge to have more ‘stuff’ will soon start to dissipate. 3. Identify experiences: The key to investing in experiences is to create a list of where you’d like to go, what you’d like to do and who you want to experience them with. You can start your list today and build on it; whether it’s as adventurous as bungee jumping or sky diving, or as effortless as a picnic or a holiday — whatever it is, write it down. Then, once you have a list, prioritise which one you’d like to do first. If you don’t have the money for the experience straight away, book it, then start saving towards it. Booking it means that you have now committed to paying the price instead of splurging on possessions you don’t need. You can also do more for less by signing up for a loyalty programme. For example, for R125 a month, you can save up to 50% on experiences with First Loyalty Plus. “The perpetual cycle of buying stuff is unlikely to lead to long-term satisfaction. So next time you feel the need to indulge in retail therapy, plan a romantic weekend away with your spouse or shark cage diving with your mates instead and discover the job that comes with making lasting memories,” concludes Rioma.

Parenting Hub

How to ditch your device and go on a digital detox

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in many of us staying indoors for days, weeks, and even months on end. When we weren’t working online or joining an online class, we were binge-watching the latest series on Netflix, scrolling through social media, or playing online games. We have been spending most of our time staring at screens, but now might be a good time to take a break and consider a ‘digital detox’. Did you know? According to a study, South Africans spend an average of 8 hours and 25 minutes online each day. What is a digital detox?  You have probably heard of a ‘detox’ diet – a specific diet in which people cut out certain foods, supposedly to cleanse the body. A digital detox works in much the same way and requires you to take a break from technology to cleanse your mind. Going on a digital detox requires you to abstain from, or limit the use of, devices and platforms such as: Cellphones Laptops TVs Gaming consoles Social media  Benefits of a digital detox In our constantly connected world, embarking on a digital detox can have many benefits, including: Reducing stress Trying to keep up with a constant barrage of emails, text messages, and notifications can lead to increased stress. Taking a digital hiatus can help you relax a bit and reduce the constant pressure to be online and respond to others.  Increasing attention span The persistent beeping of notifications can not only make you more stressed but can also distract you from the tasks you have to complete. A study has found that more time spent using digital devices was linked to increased symptoms of ADHD (although symptoms of ADHD does not necessarily mean an ADHD diagnosis). A digital detox can help you focus on the task at hand and not distract you with unimportant notifications. Also read: Might my child have ADHD Connecting with family and friends Putting away devices can help you be more present and give your full attention to family and friends. Studies suggest that the overuse of smartphones in social contexts can decrease the quality and quantity of social interactions.  Even if you still need to resort to Skype or Zoom calls to connect with loved ones due to the coronavirus, you can make these moments count by focusing on one device or online platform at a time. If you are chatting with someone via video call on your laptop, don’t also scroll through Instagram on your phone at the same time. Focus on engaging with and really listening to the person with whom you are speaking.  Getting more sleep Evidence suggests that children who use digital devices at bedtime have worse sleep quality and quantity than children who do not use a digital device before bed. A digital detox can allow you to channel all the hours spent in front of a screen towards healthier habits such as unwinding at the end of the day by taking a bath, reading a book, and getting enough sleep. Also read: Why sleep is important for better academic results Avoiding the comparison game  Children, especially teenagers, who are becoming more aware and conscious of themselves and their peers are likely to start comparing themselves to the curated lives they see on social media. Comparison can ultimately lead to symptoms of poor mental health such as anxiety and depression. Taking a break from seeing the ‘picture-perfect’ lives of others can help you realise that social media is not always an accurate representation of people’s lives. Tips for embarking on a digital detox Now you know what some of the benefits of a digital detox are, you might be wondering how to start. Here are some tips on what to do when you are ready to ditch your digital devices (if only for a little while): Set realistic goals Make sure to set goals that are achievable. If you have to work online or attend online classes, going off the grid for a month might not be feasible. Instead, start small by logging out of social media for a few days or doing a mini-detox in the evenings by refraining from using your devices.   Set limits If you cannot disconnect completely, setting limits on digital connections can positively affect your mental wellbeing. You can start by reducing the number of hours you spend on your laptop or social media. Plan fun activities around these hours to ensure that you look forward to putting your phone down. You can also block specific sites on your laptop or put your phone on airplane mode to ensure that you are not distracted by notifications. Remove pop-up messages If your social media notification settings alert you with on-screen messages or tones, you will likely check your apps whenever you get an alert. Start your digital detox by turning off push notifications on your phone and set a time limit, like 30 minutes a day, in which to catch up on what you’ve missed.  Did you know? Research suggests that limiting your social media use to approximately 30 minutes per day can significantly improve your wellbeing. Choose your detox A digital detox can look different for everyone – you can decide what type of digital detox you want to do. Verywell Mind provides some ideas below: A digital break: avoiding all technological devices for a short period of time, such as a day or a week. A device-free day: avoiding all digital devices for one day of the week, e.g. going device-free every Tuesday. A specific detox: restricting access to a particular app or game. A social media detox: restricting or eliminating social media for a set period of time. Detox at specific times Promote enjoying screen time only when real-life chores are done. Reward your child or yourself with an hour of screen time after chores have been completed. Remember to avoid screens close to bedtime. Also read: Parents, here’s how screen time can work in your favour While

Parenting Hub

Everything you need to know about micro-needling

Micro-needling is a multi-purpose, minimally-invasive treatment that tackles everything from acne scars, to wrinkles, to stretch marks. It was first practiced in the late 1990s, but it is only recently that is has become widely accessible and popular.  What is micro-needling? Micro-needling is the insertion of micro-fine needles into the skin. The needles enter the skin at surface-level depth, puncturing the skin to stimulate the body’s collagen production. Collagen is an essential protein that helps keep our skin looking youthful, firm and smooth. Our bodies produce collagen naturally, but as we age, our production of collagen decreases and this contributes to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.  The tiny punctures created by micro-needling are experienced as “injuries” by the body, and these injuries prompt the body to ramp up its collagen production in order to heal the skin. The body produces and sends healing agents collagen and elastin to the skin to facilitate the healing process. The healing process that takes place does not just involve the healing of the needle prick sites; the collagen and elastin also get to work helping the skin recover from a variety of other concerns.   Micro-needling has shown incredible results in reducing wrinkles and fine lines, acne and acne scars, pigmentation, stretch marks, rosacea and uneven skin texture. The procedure breaks down old tissue and triggers the production of new elastin and collagen for healthier skin, which is how it is able to reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Pulse Dermatology & Laser makes us of the Eclipse MicroPen, the most advanced medical-grade automated micro-needling device on the market. How is MicroPen different from dermal needling rollers? Not all micro-needling procedures are equal. Automated micro-needling devices move in a vertical direction for better precision when treating the skin. This also prevents the risk of creating micro-tears in the skin. At Pulse Dermatology & Laser, therapists use a combination of a glide and stamping technique to ensure that it is completely vertical, which ensures better results. How is the procedure done? A sterile cartridge containing 12 tiny micro-points is attached to the Eclipse MicroPen. Your Pulse skincare professional will apply a hyaluronic acid and protein product as well as sterile mesothetic solutions based on the patient’s needs (for example vitamin A or C), to the skin. This medical skin cocktail is mixed by your therapist to ensure customised treatment for your needs and concerns. In many cases your therapist will combine the needling with a peel for collagen production, which is immediately followed by face mask under an LED light to heal and nourish the skin.  Typically, the skin has a radiant glow immediately following an Eclipse MicroPen micro-needling session.  Does it hurt? Your therapist will apply a very good numbing agent to your skin before the treatment to ensure you do not experience any discomfort.  Is there any downtime? Do not book a hot date on the day of your procedure! Your skin will be red and you will be sent home with a tailor-made mask on, which means you cannot touch your skin for the rest of the day. Are there any risks? Provided you follow the after-care guidelines, your skin will recover fairly quickly. After the procedure you need to be extremely vigilant with wearing sunscreen. You should also avid touching your face, as bacteria from your hands can cause a slight infection.  How often should you have the procedure done? This procedure can be done once every four weeks. Micro-needling is more easily accessible than ever, and is a much more affordable treatment than some of the alternatives out there. It has the ability to diminish and minimise imperfections, while delaying the signs of ageing and giving the skin a healthy and radiant glow.  To book a treatment, or find out more, visit http://pulsedermatologyandlaser.com/, email [email protected] or call 021 914 0447.

Parenting Hub

Are our children spreading the Coronavirus?

While there are widespread reports that children experience milder symptoms and suffer fewer complications from the coronavirus than adults, paediatricians are warning that the issue is much bigger than previously thought.  “It seems that the number of children infected with the virus in South Africa is higher than what we believe it is. While it is true that children do not seem to be as adversely affected as adults by the virus, we are seeing a large number of children who are asymptomatic, and this is worrying because they could be spreading the virus,”  cautions Dr Iqbal Karbanee, paediatrician and CEO of Paed-IQ BabyLine,a trusted telephonic medical advice service for the first 1000 days of a child’s life, starting from conception to birth and beyond.   Data suggests that children under the age of 18 years represent about 8.5% of reported cases, with relatively few deaths compared to other age groups. News reports are now suggesting that children may also be more susceptible to the new strains of the virus, without serious consequences. However, there is very limited data available on the number of children who are asymptomatic.   “This is why it is important for children to practice social distancing and hand-washing, even if they do not appear ill, as they can pass the disease on to family members, or others,” says Karbanee.   People aged 60 and older or with existing health conditions remain the most vulnerable to the coronavirus. That includes people with conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease and chronic respiratory conditions.  Dr Karbanee says that there have also been few pregnant women who have had complications as a result of the virus, and those who have had the virus have gone to have babies who have been fine.   But should pregnant women consider getting the vaccine?   “If you are a high risk patient and pregnant, I urge you to consider taking the vaccine, provided that you have discussed it with your doctor,” says Dr Karbanee, adding that high risk includes being overweight, being diabetic or having a lung disease.    He says that, given the risk of complications from COVID-19 should a mom-to-be a high risk patient, the vaccine offers a relatively safe guard against the Coronavirus.   “The vaccine is not a live virus-based vaccine, unlike the Polio vaccine for example. This vaccine is made from a protein extract from the virus, which, when you get exposure to it, lowers your risk of getting extreme symptoms. There have been very few side effects recorded by those who have taken the vaccine.”  Karbanee says that each case should be seen on its individual merits and if pregnant women are concerned, they should discuss their worries and the possibility of getting the vaccine, with their doctor and medical team. 

Cosmetix

HELLO, GOOD STUFF!

HELLO, GOOD STUFF! is the perfect match for any beauty addict who loves to keep it simple, more natural, and effective. The six new products are packed full of at least 90% natural ingredients that pamper the skin and give it a beautiful natural look – all under the motto “Clean Beauty”: All products in the range are vegan and do not contain microplastics, parabens, PEGs or mineral oil. Because what is good for nature is also good for you – and your skin!  HELLO, GOOD STUFF! FACE SERUM A radiant complexion is guaranteed with this Face Serum! The formula with pineapple extract provides intensive moisture, leaving behind a beautiful glow and a delicate pineapple fragrance. 97% Natural in gredients – Without silicones HELLO, GOOD STUFF! 3in1 FACE MIST Spray it on! The skin on your face will not want to miss this Face Mist with natural watermelon extract: With just one pump of spray, the fruity scented formula moisturizes, sets the make-up in place, and refreshes the skin.  90% Natural ingredients – Without silicones HELLO, GOOD STUFF! MATT & GLOW BRONZER Sun-kissed skin, here we come! Simply applied with a brush, the 2in1 duo bronzer with cocoa butter creates a softly tanned complexion, mattifies the face and neckline and sets radiant accents, as it combines a breathtakingly matt and a beautiful pearly shade. The bronzer with a pleasant cocoa fragrance is available for light and medium skin types. 99% Natural ingredients – Without silicones HELLO, GOOD STUFF! FACE PRIMER A primer with natural ingredients that intensively nourishes the skin and extends the durability of make-up? No problem with the HELLO, GOOD STUFF! FACE PRIMER by essence. The silicone-free formula with natural hemp seed oil, valuable aloe vera extract, glycerin and hyaluronic acid provides the skin with optimal moisture and is quickly absorbed. The result: perfectly cared for and refreshed skin with a soft glow that shows off your favourite foundation to its best advantage.  98% Natural ingredients – Without silicones HELLO, GOOD STUFF! TINTED BEAUTY CREAM Here comes one for all! The new TINTED BEAUTY CREAM of the HELLO GOOD STUFF! range skillfully highlights the individual beauty of every skin. The softly tinted, nourishing day cream with natural cactus blossom extract, hyaluronic acid and glycerin provides moisture for 24 hours, makes slight skin irregularities disappear and is easy to blend. The texture is ultra-soft on the skin and is so light that beauty queens can not only see the natural look but also feel it.  90% Natural ingredients – Without silicones HELLO, GOOD STUFF! VOLUME MASCARA Time to let your eyes shine – with the new HELLO, GOOD STUFF! VOLUME MASCARA. The nourishing texture with coconut oil and vegetable waxes nourishes and strengthens the lashes, gives them beautiful volume and immerses them in deep black. 90% Natural ingredients – Without silicones

The Baby Academy

Caring for your baby: A baby bath

My hubby Steve used to take the lead on the baby baths… I was breastfeeding, so it was an excellent little opportunity for him to have a little 1:1 time with the guys when they were small. Initially, it was, of course, a bit’ fingers and thumbsy’ for him as newborn babies can seem so small and delicate; however, about 2 or 3 baths in, he was a pro.  Parents-to-be generally have so many questions about bathing a newborn baby e.g.: How often? What temperature? Should I use a product in the bath?Let me talk you through a simple step by step… and we will do the full demo as always in our Free Baby Care Workshop, which you can book here. Step 1Grab everything you need: Have everything you need ready to rock before you even think about picking up your baby. You will need a baby bath (or the good old fashioned sink while baby is still small enough), 2 x soft towels, a handful of cotton wool pads, a sponge or cloth, 1 x fresh outfit (a vest and a Babygro +/- a cardigan depending on the weather), 2 x fresh nappies (always good to have a spare) and you are good to go. Step 2 Filling up the bath: If you are bathing the baby yourself, I would suggest you use the sink or fill the bath slowly, filling and re-filling a jug of water… as we don’t want new Moms lifting anything too heavy (like a bath full of water) for the first six weeks. Correct water temperature is 37’C…. The baby has been soaking in a bath of body temperature amniotic fluid for the past nine months, so 37’C is ideal and very familiar for your baby!! Step 3 Face and Hair: We bathe babies in sections for a couple of reasons, firstly it’s easier for the person washing the baby and secondly, we feel they won’t lose as much heat. How do we do this? We undress baby, leaving just the nappy on, and we wrap baby up in a lovely soft towel… almost like a swaddle. We lift baby up, supporting the nape of his neck with one hand, and his body (which is wrapped up in the towel) is tucked between the elbow of the same hand and your hip… see picture. We then use plain water from the bath and a cloth or a cotton wool pad to wash baby’s face and then hair. We try to avoid any shampoo/product for the first 4-6 weeks to give your baby’s delicate skin a chance to adjust. Step 4 Baby’s Body: Once baby’s hair has been towel-dried, we take baby out of the towel, taking off the nappy and slowly lower baby’s body into the bath (holding baby securely-see pic). Babies don’t like surprises, so be mindful of this being slow and gentle and chatting to baby all the time. Use a sponge or cloth to wash baby down, and then leaning baby forward, you could do the back and bum. Dry baby well using a soft towel, then remove baby from the damp towel you just dried him with, wrap him in a nice dry towel and give him a big snuggle to let him know we are all done.And that’s it… all done. Generally, we spend more time prepping and cleaning up after the bath than the actual bath itself. And we recommend in the early days to just bath them once a week.  You are welcome to sign up for our FREE Baby Care Workshop, where you will see our Expert Midwife bathe a baby, plus talk through a whole host of informative topics about caring for baby. Click here to book your free place. 

Parenting Hub

A comprehensive approach to mental health is a no-brainer for student residences

With more than 30% of university students confirming that they had experienced a common mental disorder in the preceding 12 months, with 20% having experienced common generalised anxiety disorder, it’s clear that academic institutions and student residences must place a priority on students’ mental health.  Furthermore, nearly three quarters of UCT students said cited mental ill-health such as anxiety and depression being their greatest challenge during the COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020, followed by disconnection from peers and lecturers, and a lack of quiet places in which to study. Students’ mental health in the COVID-19 environment has been further impacted by loss of income in their families due to job losses, grief after deaths among those dearest to them, and academic pressure with the move to online learning.  Concerns about family safety and wellbeing also impact students’ mental health, with many NSFAS-funded students sharing their NSFAS meal allowances with their families, leaving the students hungry and destitute, with heightened anxiety or depression. The risk is even higher for students in historically excluded and marginalised sectors of the population, particularly women, those of atypical sexual orientation, and disabled people. “Students turn to formal structures like residences for senses of structure and support, and from the collegial learning environment that offers the reassurance of time spent with others that have similar goals and objectives,” says Millet Nkanyane, ResLife manager at Respublica Student Living. “We have noticed an increased need for psychosocial support among our students, who have had to deal with the complexities of online learning, family stress and trauma as a result of the pandemic and its impacts, all in addition to navigating their way through the challenges of tertiary education.” Nkanyane has been forging new paths in student support with Respublica’s ResLife programme at its 10 purpose-built residences in Johannesburg, Midrand, Pretoria, Bloemfontein and Cape Town for six years, and emphasises that student accommodation must offer so much more to students than a roof over their heads – particularly in the current challenging environment. “Parents and funders should choose a student residence that gives students everything that they need to be able to focus on their lectures and assignments – particularly first-years who away from home for the first time ever,” she says. “The current environment also makes it essential to offer specialised COVID-19 wellness support, whether it’s to support students who have contracted the virus, or to help detect mental illness and in turn to support those students too.”  Furthermore, students must have access to quiet study spaces, unlimited internet access, and sufficient facilities to prepare their own food – or to buy it, if needed. A residence that has uninterrupted power provided by on-site generators in the event of load-shedding, also helps reduce students’ stress. “A strong ResLife programme will also help students learn positive ways of coping with the complexities of student life, whether it’s figuring out how to make new friends in a socially distanced environment, or knowing that they have someone to turn to if they are struggling with mental health,” Nkanyane adds. She adds more senior students can be very effective mentors to their younger counterparts, if trained properly, and that support from the likes of the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is essential to the success of any student support programme.

Parenting Hub

AQ Skin Solutions: A solution for hair loss

Successful hair re-growth treatments are worth their weight in gold, but they are often hard to come by. For this reason, many hair loss treatments are only administered by doctors. AQ Advanced Hair Complex+ has the solution. Causes of hair loss Hair loss is a common concern among men and women of all ages and ethnicities. There are various reasons as to why you may be experiencing it, and in most cases, you will need to consult an expert in order to determine the cause.  Factors influencing hair loss: Genetics Hormonal changes Stress Illness Auto-immune disease Certain drugs Malnutrition Environmental factors Traction A build-up of hormones and loss of nutrients can cause the follicle to harden and thin, which may lead to the thinning and shrinking of the hair shaft. Eventually, the hair can no longer grow out of the scalp, causing the scalp to become exposed. The hair loss then spreads, leading to male or female-pattern baldness. The good news, is that when hair follicles are still present, even in a dormant state, it is possible to prevent and reverse hair loss. Get to the root of the problem with AQ’s follicle-stimulating formula: AQ Skin Solutions Advanced Hair Complex Plus. “AQ SKIN SOLUTIONS® ADVANCED HAIR COMPLEX PLUS was created to address aging hair follicles and hair loss by employing patented human growth factor technology to promote healthy hair.  Stem cells lining the hair follicles are crucial for the production and maintenance of hair.Supplementing with growth factors and active ingredients provides support to these stem cells so that hair can thrive, holding on to healthy hair, longer. AQ’s advanced formulation works by nourishing hair follicles to a more functional and healthy state with Growth Factors, active ingredients and fruit oils. This product aims to improve the overall condition of the scalp and damaged hair follicles, while trying to increase the circulation of select growth factor proteins found in your healthy hair follicles.  This process can allow for a normal hair growth cycle that leads to improved overall hair quality.” — Dr. Ahmed Al-Qahtani(Founder & President, AQ Skin Solutions) AQ Hair Complex:  The AQ Hair Complex is used for GFIT (Growth Factor Induced Therapy) treatments of the scalp. It is a pharmaceutical grade, hormone-free growth factor formula that is safe for men and women. It is designed to nourish the follicle, deliver growth factors and nutrition to the scalp, and restore damaged follicles by promoting increased circulation. The result is improved hair quality, texture and growth cycles. But how does it work?  The treatment (in clinic) 0.5mm Dermastamp (a handheld device with 140 titanium needles) is used to create channels into the scalp for growth factor delivery. AQ Hair Complex is applied. The treatment takes 15 minutes and there is no downtime.Five treatments are performed one week apart, followed by a resting period of five weeks. Another five treatments are then performed over five weeks.   The home treatment Use AQ Skin Solutions Advanced Hair Complex Plus at home after your professional GFIT treatment. 1ml of product is used every second night in between weekly treatments. Directions Wash hair and scalp with shampoo (preferably in the morning). Dry hair and scalp and apply the serum in small doses to the area(s) of the scalp you wish to treat. Massage the area(s) of application for a minimum of five minutes. Leave hair unwashed for a minimum of eight hours (preferably overnight). Repeat steps 1 – 3 every other day until all five vials have been used. The combination of the professional treatment and home care kit will target the problem at the root, to help prevent hair loss. You can expect: Improved hair quality by improving and restoring the health of each hair follicle.Improved hair quantity.Improved hair texture.Improved and healthy growth cycles. The AQ Skin Solutions Advanced Hair Complex Plus home kit contains 5 vials, and retails for R4400. One box will last for 60 applications. Learn more here: http://aqskinsolutionssa.com/aq-advanced-hair-complex/. 

Parenting Hub

How to start the 2021 school year with confidence

The new academic year has begun and, after a year like 2020, it’s no wonder stress levels are already high and confidence in the 2021 school year launching without a hitch is low. As learners, you’ll need to stay flexible in your outlook. “It is more important than ever to start your school year on a confident note and, although confidence does not come easy to everyone, these tips from our team at The Answer Series (TAS) should help learners to start the school year feeling more confident, in control and ready to take on any unexpected outcomes,” says George Eadie, CEO of TAS. Let’s dive straight into 7 ways to start the 2021 academic year with confidence. 1.    Feel positive, think positive, act positive, be positive Set an intention for 2021 to be the year you adopt a positive mindset – or at least work on being mindful about any negative thoughts that, if left unmonitored, can start shaping how you feel and even who you think you are. 2.    Be prepared for 2021 You cannot control how the academic year will take shape, but you can control how you behave, react and take responsibility for your learning. Have regular contact with your teachers and classmates about academic material and use study guides that are proven and trusted like The Answer Series. These sorts of comprehensive study guides will take the pressure off whilst you move between physical learning in the classroom and remote learning at home. 3.    There’s nothing like a good friend Lean on your good friends for support and schedule time to check in with them too. Be a good friend by being real, honest, kind, and dependable, and don’t be shy to ask your friends for help if you feel anxious. Watch out for the warning signs of early depression and anxiety in your friends too, and act with care and compassion if you notice that they are struggling. 4.    Forget about mistakes made in the past Everyone makes mistakes in life – it’s only human. Remember that you will not be able to please everyone. Of course, set high expectations for yourself and always do your best, but remember that half the road to success is failing and learning to bounce back from adversity. Learn from your mistakes and move on. 5.    Don’t sweat the small stuff Ask yourself if what you are stressing over will matter tomorrow, next week or a month from now. If the answer is ‘no’ or even ‘maybe’, leave it behind you. If the answer is ‘yes’, set short-term and long-term milestones that are attainable and realistic to achieve within the time period you have set out for yourself. And remember, if you’re worried about your studies, additional textbooks, online resources and study guides from TAS are a great way to stay on top of your work, whether at home or in the classroom. 6.    Face your fears It is natural that the uncertainty of the year ahead might instil fear in you. Remember that to be afraid of something is a state of mind. Every time you confront a fear you change that state of mind and, in the process, you gain courage and confidence. Control what you can. Ask your teachers for a breakdown of the term’s work and create a weekly study timetable as if you were studying for exams but adjust it to homework and day to day learning. 7.    Dress for success Jenny Campbell, a mathematics author at TAS, suggests that teachers focus on looking after themselves, so they can continue to support their learners. Campbell said: “To function optimally at school and after school you need to ensure that you look after yourself by eating well, sleeping well, getting some form of exercise, switching your mind off school for a part of the day, and having me-time.” Learners can do the same. If you feel healthy and well kept, you will feel more confident and will in turn attract the same energy. Eat healthily, create an exercise routine – and make sure you stick to it – and put effort into how you look when you get ready for school.       Remind yourself often: The most beautiful thing you can wear is confidence.

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