NB Hearing & Balance

Back-to-School Hearing Health Checklist for Children

Why Hearing Health Matters for Speech and Language Development The start of a new school year is an exciting time for children and parents alike, especially after a long holiday! New stationery, fresh uniforms, getting back into the swing of the Monday to Friday school routine, and a sense of possibility fill the air. While shopping lists usually include notebooks, backpacks, and shoes, there is one essential item that is often overlooked: your child’s hearing health. Hearing plays a vital role in how children learn, communicate, and connect with others. Undetected hearing difficulties can affect speech and language development, academic performance, and even confidence in the classroom. We’ve developed this back-to-school checklist to help prepare your child for success, with a special focus on why looking at your child’s hearing health should be part of every child’s school-readiness plan. A Back-to-School Checklist for Parents 1. Stationery and School Supplies Make sure your child has the basic tools they need to learn: Having the right supplies helps children feel prepared and confident from day one. 2. Vision and Hearing Checks Many parents remember eye tests but forget hearing checks. Yet children spend most of their school day listening to teachers, classmates, and instructions. Why hearing checks matter: A hearing screening before school starts can identify problems early, when support can make the biggest difference. 3. Speech and Language Development Check Clear hearing supports clear speech. If a child struggles to hear certain sounds, they may: If you notice that your child is not speaking as clearly as expected for their age, a hearing test is an important first step. 4. Classroom Readiness Skills Children with good hearing are better able to: When hearing difficulties go unnoticed, children may seem distracted, shy, or frustrated, even though they are trying their best. 5. Health and Wellness Check A general health check can support overall learning readiness. This includes: Hearing health fits into this wellness picture and is as important as physical health. Why Hearing Is Key to Speech and Language Development From birth, children learn by listening. Hearing helps them recognize sounds, learn words, and understand how language works. At school age, this becomes even more important as learning relies heavily on spoken instruction. If a child cannot hear clearly: Even temporary hearing issues, such as frequent ear infections or fluid in the ears, can affect learning if left untreated. Signs Your Child May Need a Hearing Test Not all hearing difficulties are obvious. Look out for these signs: If you notice any of these, then we recommend a hearing test. Set Your Child Up for Success This School Year Back-to-school preparation is about more than supplies; it’s about giving your child the best possible foundation to learn, communicate, and thrive. Including a hearing test on your checklist can only support your child’s academic and social development. At NB Hearing and Balance, we are passionate about helping children hear clearly and reach their full potential. Our experienced audiologists provide gentle, age-appropriate hearing tests and school screenings designed to support speech, language, and learning success. Contact us if you have any concerns or would like to schedule a hearing test at a branch near you.

January 5, 2026
Cartoonito

AbraCartoonito: Magic & Mayhem!

AbraCartoonito is here! From Monday 29 January 2025 to Friday 2 January 2026, enjoy a magical mix of movies and series that will entertain kids and families alike. Movies: Tom & Jerry: The Magic Ring, Tom & Jerry and the Wizard of Oz, Tom & Jerry: Back to Oz, Scooby-Doo! Abracadabra-Doo, Scooby-Doo! And the Goblin King Series: Masha and the Bear, Care Bears: Unlock the Magic, Zig & Sharko, Lamput, Batwheels, Grizzy & the Lemmings, Mr. Bean: The Animated Series, Barney’s World, Silly Sundays, Lucas the Spider, Baby Looney Tunes, Looney Tunes Cartoons, Bugs Bunny Builders Tune in Monday to Friday @ 15:30 CAT on Cartoonito Channel 302 for non-stop magical fun! Don’t miss out – Big Laughs and Fun Adventures make Kids Happy!

December 26, 2025
DIBBER SA

What Parents Should Look for in a Preschool: The Power of Play-Based Learning

“As the year draws to a close, parents face the significant decision of choosing the right preschool for their child in 2026. This choice lays the foundation for your child’s early learning journey, and it deserves careful thought. As a preschool educator, I believe parents should prioritise a nurturing, safe, and developmentally appropriate environment that fosters growth through play-based learning. Here’s what every parent should consider when selecting a preschool and why play-based learning is so vital at this stage. What parents want and need from a preschool  “Parents of preschool-aged children share common priorities when choosing a school. Above all, they seek a safe and secure environment where their child feels cared for and protected. This includes a clean facility, vigilant supervision, and protocols that prioritise child safety. Equally important is a nurturing atmosphere with qualified, compassionate teachers who understand the unique needs of young learners. Parents also value a curriculum that balances fun with foundational skills, preparing children for future academic success while fostering their individuality.  “Clear communication between the school and families, affordability, and a convenient location are practical considerations that ease the daily demands of parenting. Ultimately, parents want a preschool that aligns with their values and supports their child’s social, emotional, and intellectual growth. The Importance of Play-Based Learning  “At the heart of an exceptional preschool experience lies play-based learning, a cornerstone of early childhood development. Play is not just fun; it’s how young children naturally explore, learn, and grow. Research, including studies from the American Academy of Pediatrics, underscores that play-based learning supports brain development, executive function, and long-term academic and social success far more effectively than overly academic approaches in the early years. “Through play, children develop cognitive skills by engaging in activities like building structures, solving puzzles, or pretending in imaginative scenarios, which introduce concepts like math, spatial awareness, and problem-solving.  “Socially and emotionally, play teaches children to share, collaborate, and navigate conflicts, helping them build empathy and resilience. Physically, active play – whether climbing, drawing, or manipulating objects – hones motor skills and coordination. Language skills flourish as children engage in storytelling or conversations during play, laying the groundwork for literacy.  “Most importantly, play fosters confidence and independence, allowing children to make choices, take risks, and learn from mistakes in a supportive setting. This joyful approach to learning sparks a lifelong love for discovery, ensuring children enter formal schooling with enthusiasm and curiosity. Choosing the right preschool  “As you visit preschools this season, look for environments where play is central to the curriculum. Observe whether teachers encourage creativity and exploration, whether the space feels warm and inviting, and whether the school communicates openly about your child’s progress. Ask how the programme supports your child’s unique needs and fosters their social and emotional growth alongside early academics. A great preschool will feel like a second home for your child – a place where they are safe, valued, and inspired to grow through the magic of play. “Choosing a preschool is a deeply personal decision, but by focusing on safety, nurturing care, and the proven benefits of play-based learning, you can feel confident in setting your child on a path to thrive. Take the time to explore your options, trust your instincts, and choose a school that feels right for your family. Your child’s early years are a precious opportunity to build a strong foundation for their future”. Ursula Assis is the Country Director for Dibber International Preschools, with extensive experience in early childhood education.

December 23, 2025
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

Putting together your birth plan

As you enter your third trimester you’ll have probably done a fair bit of research on the birth process (if this is your first) and may have a good idea of what you want before, during and after delivery. There are many options and opinions, from whether or not you want pain medication to how many people you would like supporting you. However, trying to keep track of your choices during labour may be tricky, which is why you’d put together a birth plan. So what exactly is it and how do you put one together? Why should I put together a birth plan?  Your birth plan is your choices or preferences before, during and after labour and delivery. While things may not always go according to plan, having your preferences written down and communicated means you, your midwives and doctor have a more mutual understanding. However, if your pregnancy doesn’t go accordingly, you need to be prepared to make adjustments on the day. What should be in my birth plan? Your birth plan is how you’d like everything would go in the best-case scenario. Your birth plan will also have to take into consideration what is available at the hospital or place where you are giving birth. Some birth plans are very basic, just outlining a simple overview, whereas others may be far more detailed and in-depth. The choice is yours. Typically a birth plan will include before, during and after labour and birth preferences. Such as who you want to assist you during birth, whether or not you want any pain medication,  you birthing positions, and requests for newborn care, such as skin-to-skin time. How can I learn more about the birth process?  If you feel like you need to top up your birthing knowledge before putting together a plan they are a few ways you can go about this. Joining antenatal classes are a good way to learn more and to meet other women in your position. Chatting to friends or family who has been through the birthing process themselves is another good way to see what would work best for you. If you and your partner are having a baby together, keep them in the loop as well. Find out what they expect during labour and you can chat about what you want, and what role you see them playing in the process.

December 23, 2025
Rush Extreme Sports

The Ultimate Teen Holiday Fun & Screen-Time Alternative

School’s out, and the screens are on It happens every year. The holidays arrive, and within a day or two, your teen has vanished behind a screen. Between TikTok, Netflix, and gaming marathons, it’s easy for the days to blend into one long scroll. But what if you could offer something that’s just as exciting, and a lot more active? That’s where Rush Indoor Trampoline Park comes in. With parks in Claremont, Cape Town and Greenstone, Johannesburg, Rush gives teens a reason to get off the couch and back into the real world. It’s the kind of fun that gets their heart racing, boosts their mood, and keeps them smiling all day. Why teens love Rush It’s real-world fun again At Rush, it’s all about movement and laughter, no filters, no screens, just real fun. The parks are packed with interconnected trampolines, foam pits, climbing walls, and dodgeball courts that give teens space to jump, flip, and move freely. Whether they’re learning a new trick, challenging friends to a jump-off, or just bouncing for the pure joy of it, Rush helps them rediscover how good it feels to actually move. And let’s be honest, it’s hard to check your phone while mid-air. It’s the perfect hangout spot Rush isn’t just for jumping, it’s a social space too. Teens can come in groups, meet up with friends, and spend the day doing something fun together. The vibe is always upbeat, the music’s good, and the atmosphere is full of energy. It’s the kind of place where friendships grow, laughter echoes, and memories are made without anyone staring at a screen. Plus, parents can relax knowing it’s a safe, supervised space with friendly staff always on duty. It’s great for body and mind We all know how easy it is to fall into a holiday slump. Too much sitting around can leave teens tired, restless, and disconnected. Trampolining is a fun, low-pressure way to get moving again. It improves balance, coordination, and fitness without feeling like exercise. More importantly, it releases endorphins, those natural feel-good chemicals that lift your mood and reduce stress. According to research published by the British Journal of Sports Medicine, just 30 minutes of moderate physical activity a day can significantly improve mental health and overall wellbeing. source So yes, a jump session at Rush can do wonders for both body and brain. Why parents love it too As much as teens need a break, parents do too. Rush makes it easy to keep everyone happy. You can grab a coffee at the on-site café or join in for a bounce (yes, parents are welcome too). It’s a win-win for the whole family. Simple ideas for a screen-free holiday If you’re trying to cut down on screen time these holidays, here are a few easy ideas to mix things up: A few hours of jumping can turn any slow day into an instant mood booster. Two cities, same great energy Rush Claremont (Cape Town)A vibrant, all-weather venue with trampolines, foam pits, and climbing walls, perfect for groups of teens and families. Rush Greenstone (Johannesburg)A spacious park packed with high-energy zones, ideal for older teens who love competition, games, and showing off new tricks. Both parks are open throughout the holidays and are ready to keep the fun going from morning till evening. Ready to make the holidays fun again? Screens will always be there, but the laughter, excitement, and memories your teen makes at Rush will stick around much longer. So, this holiday season, swap endless scrolling for jumping, movement, and real connection. Whether it’s a spontaneous day out or a planned group hangout, Rush Indoor Trampoline Park is the ultimate way to keep teens active and happy. Unlimited Rush – Holiday Special Make the most of the school holidays with Rush’s Unlimited Rush special – the perfect blend of fun for the kids and flexibility for parents. For just R215 per person, kids can enjoy unlimited weekday jumping and play sessions throughout the holidays, giving them hours of safe, high-energy entertainment while parents catch up on work or relax at the park café. It’s unbeatable value for an entire day of excitement, laughter, and movement. Find out more at Rush Unlimited Rush. Plan your visit today: https://www.rushsa.co.za/activities/

December 22, 2025
Wingu Academy

Why Parents Are Choosing Premium Online Schools in 2026: Safety, Governance, and Student Experience

The global shift toward online and hybrid schooling has accelerated dramatically in the last five years. Parents are no longer motivated only by technology or flexibility; many are seeking safer, more predictable, and academically transparent environments for their children. The Safety Imperative Across South Africa and internationally, school-based safety concerns continue to rise: For many families, online schooling offers: Wingu Academy’s learner base includes students who left unsafe environments as well as athletes, artists, and high-achieving students seeking flexible, structured alternatives. A Social Experience Built for the Modern Student Parents often express concern about socialisation—but the latest research shows online schools with intentional design outperform traditional models. Wingu learners benefit from: This creates measurable social health. Academic Credibility in an Expanding Sector With media reports highlighting fraudulent online providers, parents increasingly demand transparent academic systems. Wingu provides: This level of clarity is rare even among traditional schools. Governance That Meets (and Exceeds) National Standards Umalusi’s non-negotiables are welcomed by Wingu and already fully met. In most categories, Wingu goes beyond the requirements by: Leading South Africa in Educational Innovation Wingu’s management systems include: These practices reflect the school’s long-term strategy:To be the most academically rigorous, student-centred, and future-focused online school in South Africa.

December 22, 2025
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