Advice Column - Parenting Hub

Leading Expert Advice from Curro Online

Advice from the experts

IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SPF 30 AND SPF 50

With the amount of skincare knowledge now freely available, it is a known fact how important and essential applying a sunscreen is everyday, especially with skin cancer becoming the most common form of cancer among people. As we know, SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, which is the measure to determine how well sunscreen is able to shield against UV rays. UVB rays are responsible for producing sunburn. The UVB rays also play the greatest role in causing skin cancers, including the deadly black mole form of skin cancer (malignant melanoma). We also know that we need a high SPF factor to get adequate protection from the sun – but is there really a difference between an SPF 30 and a SPF 50? What’s the real tea on SPF? The SPF number on any skincare product is listed on the front of the packaging to tell you how long the sun’s UV radiation would take to redden your skin. Which we know as sunburn. Sunburn over time is known to cause premature ageing, suns spots and in extreme cases skin cancer. With the earth’s atmosphere also being reduced due to global warming, the sun’s rays are a lot more potent and can have an even greater impact on the skin over a shorter period of time. Skin cancer can be significantly reduced by using a sunscreen 365 days a year, starting in early childhood. Tumi Lehutso at Fundamentals Skincare says, “When choosing the right SPF for you and your family, it is important to note that the number in the SPF is a ratio (SPF 15, 20, 30, 50) and all have the same physical protection within the burn time. Burn time is classified as the time you start damaging cells. It is important to note that every single skin has a different burn time. SPF 50 has a longer protection time until the burn time than SPF 30 for example. On a daily basis you need to be using a SPF of at least 30 and no less – as a SPF 30 and SPF 50 provide more than enough protection for your skin.” For an office day spf 30 is perfect. Another box that needs to be ticked when choosing a sunscreen is checking whether it is broad spectrum – this means that it provides protection against the sun’s UVA (aging) rays and UVB (burning) rays, which helps prevent skin cancer, early skin aging (premature age spots, wrinkles, and sagging skin) and sunburn. If it’s not broad spectrum, it won’t provide overall protection. Lastly, there are different types of sunscreen you should know about: Mineral also known as inorganic filters. Mineral sunscreen works by creating a physical barrier that reflects and blocks the suns energy and UV rays. Normal active ingredients is zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. It is gentler on sensitive skin and better for hyperpigmentation and melasma. A mineral sunscreen can be formulated to not have a white cast such as the Fundamentals Skincare sunscreen. Chemical also known as organic filters. Chemical sunscreens works by absorbing the suns energy and UV rays. This is done through converting the rays into heat and releasing them from the skin. Active ingredients include oxybenzone, avobenzone and homosalate. A chemical sunscreen is normally sheer and clear in appearance and is used in oils, serums and sprays. “As long as you’re using sunscreen correctly, you’re doing it right. Use daily and reapply often should be your mantra,” concludes Lehutso. For more information: Shop: https://fundamentals-skincare.co.za Instagram: @fundamentals_skincare Tik Tok: @fundamentals_skincare Facebook: @FundamentalsSkincare

June 14, 2022

Disney and Pixar invites families to the cinemas this youth day weekend as it gears up for its biggest film release of 2022 – Lightyear

Disney and Pixar will be releasing its highly rated film “Lightyear” in South African theatres just in time for families to enjoy this upcoming youth day weekend from Friday 17 June, 2022. The movie is a great watch for both parents and children, as it explores the different facets how we as individuals can view the world. Life is never what we plan for and things don’t always go the way we want it. But this movie is all about not dwelling on the past and wishing that things were different—that seems like a waste of time. The movie teaches both adults and the youth that in spite of bad things and bad decisions that we need to rather focus on doing what is best with where one is right now and making the most of one’s time. As individuals we make bad decisions, but if we spend our lives regretting those bad decisions instead of investing in what’s in front of our eyes, is that really living?” Filmmakers called on actor Chris Evans to voice the accomplished Space Ranger, Buzz. “Lightyear” also features the voices of Uzo Aduba as his commander and best friend, Alisha Hawthorne, and Peter Sohn as Buzz’s dutiful robot cat, Sox. Keke Palmer, Taika Waititi and Dale Soules lend their voices to the Junior Zap Patrol’s Izzy Hawthorne, Mo Morrison and Darby Steel, respectively, and James Brolin can be heardas the enigmatic Zurg. The voice cast also includes Mary McDonald-Lewis as onboard computer I.V.A.N., Isiah Whitlock Jr. as Commander Burnside, Efren Ramirez as Airman Díaz, and Keira Hairston as Young Izzy. “The faster I fly, the further into the future I travel. I get it.” – Buzz Lightyear PRODUCTION NOTES Every cinephile loves a good hero—someone to admire, someone to root for. Heroes overcome insurmountable obstacles to save the day. And the best heroes—the ones who live on long after their films hit the big screen—are, at heart, human. They have flaws and fears—they’re utterly relatable, even as they soar to greatness. Buzz Lightyear is such a hero—in fact, he’s the kind of big-screen phenomenon that inspired a successful line of toys. That’s what filmmakers pictured when creating the character for Pixar Animation Studios’ 1995 feature film “Toy Story.” That story placed Buzz Lightyear—the toy in this case—center stage as the brand-new, highly sought-after action figure that gives vintage pull-string Sheriff Woody a run for his money as Andy’s favorite. Fast forward 21 years, and director Angus MacLane found himself asking: What movie inspired Andy to beg for a fancy toy with lasers, karate-chop action and aerodynamic space wings? “‘Lightyear’ is the movie that Andy, his friends and probably most of the rest of the world saw,” says MacLane. “I wanted to make something that felt true to those fun, big-budget popcorn films.” A sci-fi action-adventure and the definitive origin story of Buzz Lightyear, “Lightyear” follows the legendary Space Ranger on an intergalactic adventure. “I did a lot of research, breaking down the nature of genre thrillers,” says MacLane. “I knew Buzz would have to face a big problem, and I liked the sci-fi element of time dilation. There’s a rich history of character-out-of-time heroics: Captain America, Flash Gordon, Buck Rogers, to name a few. “They say you can’t live in the past, but what if you could?” continues MacLane. “We all wonder what it would be like to go back in time, but instead we’re jumping forward in time. That’s the truth I wanted to build for ‘Lightyear’—nostalgia for the past while rapidly jumping into the future.” According to producer Galyn Susman, Buzz Lightyear gave filmmakers a rich opportunity for exploration. “Ever since we met the character, Buzz has had this inherent and interesting tendency to view the world in a unique way,” she says. “His version of reality is never quite the same as everybody else’s, and there’s something superentertaining about that. “He’s an aspirational character,” Susman continues. “And the world really needs more aspirational characters right now.” The film kicks off with accomplished Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear, his commander Alisha Hawthorne and a crew of more than 1,000 scientists and technicians heading home from their latest mission. Approximately 4.2 million light-years away from Earth, a sensor signals their proximity to an uncharted but potentially resource-rich planet. Buzz makes the call to reroute their exploration vessel (aka the Turnip) to T’Kani Prime—a swampy planet with aggressive vines and giant swarming bugs. Efforts for a quick exit go horribly awry, culminating in a crash that shatters their fuel cell, leaving Buzz, Alisha and their entire crew stranded on the less-than-welcoming planet. “Buzz is the guy who’s been at the top of his game for a while,” says executive producer Andrew Stanton, who contributed to all four “Toy Story” films. “We’re witnessing in this movie his first fall from grace. He’s never experienced that before.” Marooned on the decidedly hostile planet, the crew settles in for the long game. Says Jason Headley, who’s a screenwriter on the film, “Nobody’s going anywhere until the resident scientists can create a new ‘hyperspeed’ crystal that holds up to a test flight. It’ll be years of trial and error.” Buzz blames himself. “Burdened with the guilt of having made a critical mistake, Buzz is consumed by the desire to rectify it,” says Susman. “Our story takes place in space—but it’s still something we all face at some point or another. We make bad decisions, but if we spend our lives regretting those bad decisions instead of investing in what’s in front of our eyes, is that really living?” Adds MacLane, “Life is never what we plan for. It’s not about dwelling on the past and wishing things were different—that seems like a waste of time. While Buzz is obsessed with righting his wrong, Alisha decides that she’s going to do her best with where she is right now. She wants to make the most of her time regardless of what planet she’s on.” Time. Among Buzz’s battles with guilt, technology, chemistry

June 13, 2022

TICKETS FOR MARVEL STUDIOS’ “THOR: LOVE AND THUNDER” NOW ON SALE

OPENING IN CINEMAS FROM THURSDAY, JULY 7 AT 7PM Starting today, fans can purchase movie tickets to Marvel Studios’ “Thor: Love and Thunder”, including shows on Thursday, July 7 at 7pm, a full day before the film’s release. Marvel Studios’ “Thor: Love and Thunder” finds the God of Thunder (Chris Hemsworth) on a journey unlike anything he’s ever faced – one of self-discovery. But his efforts are interrupted by a galactic killer known as Gorr the God Butcher (Christian Bale), who seeks the extinction of the gods. To combat the threat, Thor enlists the help of King Valkyrie (Tessa Thompson), Korg (Taika Waititi) and ex-girlfriend Jane Foster (Natalie Portman), who – to Thor’s surprise – inexplicably wields his magical hammer, Mjolnir, as the Mighty Thor. Together, they embark upon a harrowing cosmic adventure to uncover the mystery of the God Butcher’s vengeance and stop him before it’s too late. Directed by Taika Waititi (“Thor: Ragnarok,” “Jojo Rabbit”) and produced by Kevin Feige and Brad Winderbaum, “Thor: Love and Thunder” opens in U.S. theaters July 8, 2022. “Thor: Love and Thunder” is opening in cinemas across the country from Thursday, July 7 @ 7pm.

June 13, 2022

TELLING OUR OWN STORIES TO IGNITE A LOVE FOR READING

Former secretary general of the United Nations, Kofi Annan, once said that “Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope. It is the road to human progress and the means through which every man, woman and child can realise his or her full potential,’’ yet for millions of South African children, that bridge seems inaccessible. While the literacy crises in South Africa continues, many experts agree that learning to read in one’s mother tongue can helps combat this issue. According to early literacy specialist, author, and translator, Dr Xolisa Guzula, ‘’Research shows that children learn better when they are grounded in their mother tongue.’’ However, what exacerbates the problem is that most kids only have access to books that are not in their home languages. Only 2% of children’s books published commercially in South Africa* are in local African languages. In a country where approximately eight out of ten people speak a home language other than English, creating relatable stories in indigenous languages is critical if we hope to improve childhood literacy. Cadbury Dairy Milk has always been a brand steeped in the spirit of generosity and pioneering social impact. Cadbury remains committed to its mission of igniting a love for reading in the next generation by making homegrown stories more accessible in their home language. The Homegrown Stories initiative is the latest step in a long-term social mission to grow, co-author, distribute and inspire relatable children’s stories in all 11 official South African languages. Last year, Cadbury Dairy Milk asked the public to translate words into their mother tongue. A team of young local authors then weaved these words into exciting new stories. To date over 500 stories have been translated and made available for download from the Cadbury Digital Library with an additional 45 000 books printed and distributed directly to the children who needed them the most. South Africa is a nation of natural storytellers, crafted through our shared experiences and diversity. This year, Cadbury is encouraging South Africans to tap into their innate storytelling abilities and, by using their everyday interests and experiences as inspiration, generously share a homegrown story in their beloved home language. ‘’With a goal to increase the number of homegrown stories, available in all local African languages, to 1,000 by the end of the year. What better way to advance this mission than by bringing South Africans from all walks of life together to participate in a collective labour of love. Together a small generous act of sharing a story can create lasting impact on a child’s life. An authentic story can encourage a child to want to read more, which in turn can open new worlds and introducing opportunities for the next generation. By sharing our own homegrown stories, we are hoping to create a space where our children can see themselves reflected in the books that shape their childhood.” Lara Sidersky, Mondelez SA Category Lead for Chocolate. Telling our own stories Representation and resonance are important aspects in the literacy journey. When children can see themselves reflected in stories it aids comprehension and encourages enjoyment of the reading journey, which in turn promotes a culture of reading. Professional storyteller and author Baeletsi Tsatsi agrees, ‘’By telling relatable stories to our children, we give them a sense of their place in the world and let them know that they matter and their experiences matter. If we want children to fall in love with reading and themselves, then it is paramount that they see themselves in the stories they read, and this is a beautiful way to do that.” Dr Guzula continues, “The importance of children being able to relate to the stories we tell them cannot be overstated when it comes to developing a love for reading. Nurturing the enjoyment of reading also puts a child at an advantage when they reach school going age.” To amplify this enjoyment Cadbury commissioned local illustrator, Russel Abrahams aka Yay Abe, to incorporate his contemporary design style into creating engaging, impactful Cadbury Story Edition packs to launch the Homegrown Stories journey. Creating Impact through accessibility Cadbury Dairy Milk has partnered with several like-minded organisation and distributors to ensure these stories reach all children, both physically and virtually, in languages that they understand. Alongside community radio stations, who provide an ideal storytelling platform, Cadbury has also partnered with Qualibooks, a leading provider of curriculum-based library and other educational resources to schools and communities. Chris De Beer, a director at Qualibooks, adds, “There is clearly a demand for literature in African languages that needs to be provided for. The number of stories being read after school via our KiBooks online platform clearly shows that we are helping children develop a love of for reading in their spare time. If we can help cultivate that by providing them with more titles that speak to their lived experiences, we have no doubt that we can do our bit to improve childhood literacy in this country.” How South Africans can play a role Cadbury Dairy Milk is asking the public to join them and help children fall in love with reading by sharing an authentic Homegrown Story. Look out for the Cadbury Homegrown Story Edition packs for all the details on how to unlock your stories. Simply scan the QR code on pack to open WhatsApp and follow the prompts to share a story in your beloved home language either via voice notes, typing your story ending or uploading a PDF. You can also visit the Cadbury Digital Library or see your story brought to life through the interactive AR lens. Visit cadbury.co.za and join the #CadburyHomeGrownStories conversation: @CadburyDairyMilkSA (Facebook) @Cadbury_SA (Twitter and Instagram) Scan QR code to access Cadbury Digital Library:

June 10, 2022

Which breast pump is the best for me?

Deciding on which breast pump to buy can be difficult as there are so many breasts pump to choose from. How do you separate the quality breast pumps from the cheap and ineffective ones? There are different types of breast pumps from manual to electric, single to double, open and closed, general, fitted and hospital grade. By knowing what you need from your pump, you will be able to find the pump that is the best fit for you. It should fit you well and be comfortable. It should be able to empty your breast quickly and effectively. Have good service and spare parts available. A good warranty against motor issues. How do you know if a pump can do all of this? These are the questions to ask. How many different flange (the part that goes over your nipple) sizes are compatible with the pump? All pumps come with a standard flange size. However, if you want to be confidant that you will be able to get a flange size that fits you, lookout for brands that offer a variety of flange sizes, like with the Ameda breast pump range. The Ameda Flange size range is 21mm, 22,5mm, 25mm(standard) 28,5mm, 30,5mm, 32,5mm and 36mm. This gives you a large range to find your perfect fit. My Breast pump we are able to supply from 17mm when using our hands free cups. How do you know that the pump will be comfortable? After making sure that you have the correct flange fit you need to be able to find the correct setting/ suction on the pump. Check if the pump has a variety of setting. Does it have 2 phase pumping? This means that there are specific settings for stimulation (helps you to release your milk-let down) and expression (when you empty your breasts). You need to be able to find your best setting for the pump to effectively empty your breasts. The Ameda Mya Joy has 2 phase pumping with 6 levels for stimulation and 12 levels for expression. What research was done to create the pump? Ameda is the oldest breast pump company and has always work to create comfortable, effective and safe pumps for both mom and baby. Breast pumps are designed to empty the breast by mimicking both the suction pressure and frequency of a baby’s suckling. Ameda has done extensive research on which are the best setting and which combination of suction and vacuum work best together. Research has shown that during the expression phase a pump should be able to cycle between 40-60 times in a minute. This will be most effective at removing milk, keeping your prolactin levels high and your milk production up. Any breast pump that has a suction level of 150mmhg (general pumps found in pharmacies) will be ineffective at emptying your breast and could result in decrease milk production if used for exclusive pumping. Also, if a pump has suction that is too high (250mmhg) can cause nipple pain. The Mya Joy is a hospital grade breast pump that has specific suction and vacuum levels that has been research for the best expression result. The cycles per minute are also specific for comfort and emptying the breast. The Ameda Mya Joy has the following specs: Suction Levels Stimulation: Approx. -40~-170mmHg Suction Levels Expression: Approx. -50~-250mmHg Vacuum Levels Stimulation: 6 Levels Expression: 12 Levels Cycles Per Minute Stimulation: 80~120 C.P.M. Expression: 20~65 C.P.M You can see that the Mya Joy falls well with in the ideal ranges and allows you to individualise the pumping session so that you will be most comfortable. Is this pump portable? With more moms working and needing to pump at work having a portable breast pump is important. The Ameda Mya Joy is a portable breast pump that can clip onto your belt or fit into your pocket and is ultra-quite which allows you to pump anywhere anytime that you need to. My breast pump now has hands free kits that fit the Mya Joy and allow you to place your flange into your bra for even more privacy. Is the pump an open or closed system breast pump? Closed system breast pumps are the safest to use. This means that your breast milk is kept separate from your pumps tubing and motor. The reason that this is important is that if milk or moisture gets into your tubing or motor it is very difficult to clean. Thus, mould and bacteria can thrive and then they can contaminate your breast milk. With a closed system this will never happen as a closed system pump keep the motor separate form the milk collection and there can be no cross contamination. This is a special feature of the Ameda Mya Joy and the reason for its flange shape. Is the Pump a Double or Single? The reason for having a double pump is to save you time and it may also help you increase your breast milk supply. If you need to pump 20 minutes for breast with a single pump that will be 40-minute session each time you pump. If you needed to pump 3 times a day, then that would be 120 minutes where as with a double pump you would only need to pump 60 minutes for those 3 sessions. This is a massive time saver for mother that need to pump often or have returned to work. How much do I need to invest with this breast pump? The cost of the breast pump needs to fit into your budget, however it may be worth saving up a bit to get a pump that is going to be comfortable and effective rather than buying an ineffective breast pump. However, there are hospital grade pumps on the market that are more affordable than others like the Ameda Mya Joy breast pump. It has a nappi code so you are able to claim back from some medical aids depending on your saving and plan.

June 10, 2022

Quick meals and treats using pureed fruit and veg

Fruit and veg purees are a quick and easy way to add natural goodness to your toddler’s mealtimes. These yummy recipes all include Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees, which means you can simply grab a pouch from your pantry or fridge and get cooking – how convenient is that? Cheesy Veg Balls Little ones love finger foods – and these nutritious and delicious veggie balls are perfect for a meal on their own or as on on-the-go snack when you’re out and about with your child. We made these using a whole sachet of Squish 100% Mixed Veg Puree, but you can switch it up and use any of your child’s favourite Squish flavours, including Butternut + Carrot and Apple, Sweet Potato + Sweet Corn. Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees contain no nasties, which means they’re free from preservatives, colourants and flavourants and have no added sugar or starch. Ingredients 1 cup cheese 1 x 110ml Squish 100% Mixed Veg Puree ¼ small onion finely grated 2 cups breadcrumbs (simply put several slices of bread into your processor and blitz) ½ cup wholewheat flour 2-3 large courgettes, finely grated 2 large carrots, finely grated ½ clove garlic grated, finely grated 2 tablespoons olive oil/coconut oil 1 teaspoon dried herbs Method Combine all the ingredients then leave to rest for 20 minutes. Roll into small balls. Place on a baking tray lined with baking paper and bake in a preheated oven at 180 °C for 20-25 minutes. (If you have an air-fryer, 10 minutes tops.) For a dipping sauce, simply mix some full-cream plain yoghurt with Squish 100% Veg Puree. Veggie Mac and Cheese The great thing about Squish 100% Veg Purees is that they allow you to add veggie goodness to some of your children’s favourite meals, like scrambled eggs, bolognaise, or this delicious mac and cheese. It’s a good idea to double this recipe so that you can freeze the extra portions and have a whole batch of ready to heat-and-eat meals for those evenings when you’re short on time. And because every toddler loves mac and cheese, they’re great to have on hand when your little one has friends over for a playdate too. Ingredients 1 x 110 ml Squish 100% Butternut + Carrot Puree 250 ml (1 cup) milk Salt and freshly cracked black pepper 250 ml (1 cup) cooked macaroni pasta, drained 125 ml (½ cup) cheddar cheese 65 ml (¼ cup) cream cheese 1 ml (¼ tsp) ground nutmeg 65 ml (¼ cup) breadcrumbs 15 ml (1 Tbsp) butter Method Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Mix the Squish Puree and milk together, then add the drained pasta. Add the cheddar and cream cheeses and stir well to combine. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Spoon into ramekins, top with breadcrumbs and a dot of butter. Bake in an oven pre-heated to 180°C for 20 minutes or until lightly golden and crisp. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Apple, Cinnamon and Rice Pudding This rice pudding is perfect for winter – it’s warm, nutritious, and full of flavour. Add even more fruity goodness by topping with sliced banana and a sprinkling of raisins. You can try different variations on this rice pudding by using a combination of different Squish 100% Fruit Purees – this is a great opportunity to finish up any half-pouches in your fridge. For a dairy-free option, you can use almond milk instead. Remember, even children with special dietary requirements can enjoy Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees – they’re free from egg, soya, wheat, nuts, dairy, and gluten. Only Squish 100% Fruit Yogi Purees contain cow’s milk. Ingredients 750 ml (3 cups) milk pinch of salt 30 ml (2 Tbsp) coconut sugar or brown sugar (optional) 2.5 ml (½ tsp) vanilla essence 100 g (½ cup) white rice 2.5 ml (½ tsp) ground cinnamon 1 x 110ml Squish 100% Apple + Banana Puree Method Place milk, salt, sugar (if using) and vanilla essence into a saucepan and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to a low simmer and add the rice and cinnamon. Cook stirring occasionally for 40 minutes or until the rice is tender and the pudding thick and creamy. Remove from the heat and stir in the puree.

June 10, 2022

Struggling with infertility? Prelox for men can improve the health of your sperm

As a man, chances are you’ve spent a period of your life ensuring you don’t impregnate your partner. But what happens when the time is right to make a baby? Only couples trying to conceive without success will know the true frustration of fertility problems. However, they’re definitely not alone. According to the World Health Organization, data suggests that as many as 186 million individuals are affected by infertility. In the eyes of many, infertility is considered a “women’s problem” but this is hardly the case. In fact, global statistics suggest that just as many men experience fertility challenges. Fortunately, many of these issues can be resolved – sometimes with something as simple as making a few lifestyle changes. For example, heavy alcohol use, smoking cigarettes, abusing drugs and being overweight can all negatively impact the health of your sperm. Still, if you’re already living on the straight and narrow without any success in the baby making department, you might want to consider a science-backed supplement that could make a dramatic difference in as little as one month – Prelox by Lamelle Pharmaceuticals. Potent and proven Created by Lamelle Pharmaceuticals, Prelox is proven to deliver significant improvements in male fertility with no negative side effects. It does this by improving the health of your sperm and increasing its number as well as its motility. (The latter is important because it has a long way to travel, so it needs a healthy “tale”, allowing it to journey all the way to the ovaries. Your sperm also needs to have a well-formed head so that it can anchor itself in an egg.) One double-blind clinical trial revealed that, after taking Prelox for just 30 days, men generated a whopping 93% more healthy, well-formed sperm and saw a 55,5% improvement in motility. It also improved the concentration of healthy sperm by an amazing 83%. It’s all about oxidation We all know that consuming a range of antioxidants is vital for good health. This helps neutralise damaging free radicals that negatively affect every cell in our bodies, including those of your sperm. This is why Prelox contains Pycnogenol, a powerful antioxidant that can help you create strong, healthy sperm that’s up to the task of travelling as well as successful implanting. It also contains L-Arginine, an amino acid that stimulates your body to produce more endothelial nitric oxide (e-NOS). Studies have shown that e-NOS can have a significant effect when it comes to stimulating sperm motility. In a way, you could think of it as a pre-race triple espresso for a sluggish sperm! The bottom line In short, if you’ve been struggling with infertility, it’s always a good idea to chat to your doctor as many things can contribute to this all too common problem. However, in many cases, this can be rectified with the simple yet ingenious patented supplement, Prelox. You’d only need to take two capsules a day and there are no negative side effects to worry about – only the proven fact that it improves the health of every cell in your body, including that of your sperm. With nothing to lose and everything to gain – including a precious bundle of joy – it makes sense to want to reap the benefits. www.preloxrange.co.za

June 10, 2022

A Special Surprise for Burn Care Trust

This month the Parent and Baby Brunch podcast series, in partnership with Epi-max, surprised guest Dr Nikki Allorto with a R20 000 donation to the Burn Care Trust. The Burn Cure Trust is a KZN-based organisation playing an invaluable role in the South African healthcare system. Founded by Dr Allorto, the Burn Care Trust offers support and guidance to parents on how to react to burn emergencies at home. Parent and Baby Brunch founder and presenter Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp was so moved by the work done by the burns team that she, coupled with Epi-max, made a R20 000 donation. Burns to children and infants, while at home, are unfortunately commonplace. Some preventative tips include: When running your child’s, run the cold water before the hot water Tuck away the power chord of the kettle to prevent tugging from inquisitive kids Turn the pot handles towards the back of the stove so they cannot be reached Watch the video here: https://fb.watch/dwakiPRAtX/ Parent + Baby Brunch was founded by Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp. The content portal is best known for its parenting podcasts, regularly ranking as the number one locally-produced parenting podcasts in South Africa. “The concept was born shortly after I had my first daughter”, says Elana. “Like the adage write what you know, I created the Parent + Baby Brunch community after experiencing first-hand what mothers and fathers of newborn children were experiencing. I was on a whatsapp group with my just-turned-parent girlfriends at 2am, everyone complaining about anything from sore nipples to back-aches. I knew there weren’t sufficient support groups out there, and so I started one!” Several years later with over 100 podcasts and 200 000 total lifetime channel listens under her belt, the popularity of the Parent + Baby Brunch podcasts continues to grow from strength to strength with thousands of streams per month across South Africa, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Israel and many more nations. More about Elana: Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp is a popular media personality and businessperson. This mompreneur presents a daily radio show on Jacaranda fm in Gauteng, is an actress and contributor on TV, and regularly hosts corporate events.

June 10, 2022

5 Reasons why tissue oils are better than body lotions

When it comes to caring for our skin, there are plenty of formulas to consider. Body lotions, creams, butters and oils all strive to serve the same purpose: To moisturise, soften and nourish the skin. And while they all have merit, there is one specific type of body care product that outshines them all: tissue oil. Tissue oil has been clinically proven to moisturise dry and dehydrated skin, to minimise the appearance of scars and stretch marks and to enhance the functionality of the skin’s moisture barrier. It has the ability to help speed up the healing of scars, improve the skin’s water holding capacity (which is essential to retain moisture) and increase its elasticity. But more than just a treatment, tissue oil is also an excellent everyday moisturizer. All things considered, tissue oil is arguably a better option for everyday body care than a cream or lotion. In order to understand why, we need to consider the differences between the two. Both tissue oil and lotion / cream is meant to moisturize the skin, but they do so in different ways. Tissue oils help re-introduce lost moisture into the skin. Skin is lipid-loving, so when a tissue oil is massaged into it, the skin “drinks” it, absorbing it eagerly and quickly. It works as an emollient to seal in moisture, and in the process, help prevent water loss. Lotions and creams are part water-based, and are used to increase the skin’s hydration by directly providing water to the skin. Essentially, they work to help prevent water from leaving the epidermis (the top layers of the skin) and provide water to hydrate and plump the outermost layers of skin cells. What makes a tissue oil better than a body lotion? It provides a better protective barrier to dry skin. This is because its formula is more occlusive than that of a lotion. Lotions (especially those with lighter formulations) tend to evaporate after being applied to the skin and don’t offer the same deep nourishment and skin barrier protection you get from a tissue oil. Tissue oil is usually “cleaner” and contains fewer ingredients. While the majority of lotions and creams contain a lot of additives, tissue oil is far less likely to contain questionable or potentially harmful ingredients. It usually comprises of no more than a handful of oils and naturally-derived ingredients. Skin loves oil. Our skin’s barrier is held together by fats (also known as lipids) and essentially, epidermal lipids are the cement that holds skin cells together. When tissue oil is absorbed by the skin, the top layers of our skin treats this oil as its own, resulting in an intensely moisturised effect. Tissue oil is clinically proven to minimise the appearance of stretch marks. Global research suggests that up to 90% of people will develop stretch marks at some point in their lives. While body lotions go a long way in providing moisture, they’re not known for their ability to treat stretch marks. When applied regularly, tissue oil can help fade and minimise the appearance of stretch marks. It is more versatile. Tissue oil can be used all over the body, and offers more alternative uses than body lotions or creams. It functions as a cuticle oil, hair oil, lip treatment, massage oil, and more. Bramley’s popular Lavender Tissue Oil has re-launched in a larger 250ml bottle, meaning you can enjoy this nourishing body treat for longer. Retailing at R39.99 for 250ml, this consumer favourite is not just effective at treating your skin’s needs, but it’s also ultra-affordable. Looking for a gift set? Shop the new limited edition Bramley Magnolia Sensitive Skin Gift Set for only R39.99. This promo is valid exclusively at Pep stores, until 15 May 2022 (while stocks last). Magnolia Tissue Oil Sensitive Skin products are created using our exclusive Bio-Pharm Oil to intensely moisturise the skin, as well as Argan, Olive, Jojoba and Vitamin E oils. The products are formulated specially to suit the needs of sensitive skin, which includes intense moisturisation and nourishment. The gift set contains the following dermatologically tested products: 100ml Sensitive Skin Tissue Oil Spray This convenient, easy-to-use spray is enriched with a variety of 100% natural oils, for intense nourishment. It’s non-greasy and easily absorbed and packed with antioxidants and vitamins. It can be used as a treatment for the improvement and appearance of scars, stretch marks, dehydrated skin, cuticles, hair and scalp, and also helps slow down skin ageing and improve skin tone. 50ml Sensitive Skin Tissue Oil Serum This silky touch, non-greasy and easily absorbed oil-serum has a thicker base compared to oils, lotions, creams and body butters, and penetrates deep into your skin and intensely absorbs deep to the dermis. Highly concentrated, this active oil-based gel is enriched with antioxidants, vitamins and 100% natural oils for intense nourishment. It restores firmness and elasticity, improving the skin’s health. Bramley’s luxurious scented tissue oils are the number one selling tissue oils in South Africa, and with good reason. Enriched with Bio-Pharm oil, their very own unique ceramide blend, Bramley Tissue Oils maintain a healthy appearance of the skin, assist in the treatment of scars and stretch marks, hydrate and keep skin smooth and supple. The ceramides improve the skin’s water holding capacity and provide structural integrity, ensuring healthier, happier skin. These oils also contain vitamin E, which is known for its healing, soothing and antioxidant properties. Cosmetic-grade body oils such as Bramley’s Tissue Oils are not slippery or sticky, and have a light texture that is easily absorbed by skin. This means you don’t have to worry about an unwanted residue or oily feel on the skin. They’re lightly scented with delicate natural ingredients like lavender, magnolia and cocoa, to name a few, and are easy on the pocket. Shop Bramley Tissue Oil at Pep Stores nationwide. Learn more at https://bramleycosmetics.com/. Instagram: @bramleycosmetics Facebook: Bramley Cosmetics and Toiletries

June 10, 2022

The SMILEstones at the heart of every Fisher-Price toy

The first giggle, the first time they roll over, their first steps… your little one will reach such joy-inducing milestones – or SMILEstones – in the first few years of their lives. To Fisher-Price, these development skills are so important, they sit right at the very heart of the Play Lab child research, where toys are put through their paces by the real experts: the kids! Whether it’s an overhead gym for a newborn, a crawl-with-me toy for a six-month-old, a walker for those first steps at 12 months or characters that spark imaginative play for toddlers. Each toy is designed with Fisher-Price’s Early Childhood Development & Learning (ECDL) Framework at its core, upholding the brand’s commitment to babies’, toddlers’ and preschoolers’ physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. It provides development teams with a framework to create products that are fun, engaging, and that also supports children’s learning. And this in turn makes play so much more than play – and toys, so much more than toys. Deborah Weber, PhD, Director of Play and Early Childhood Development Research at Fisher-Price, said: “The reason we created a framework of skills was to provide the development teams with a subset of skills that the children are acquiring at different ages and stages, for the toys they are designing and the ages they are designing for. “We want to have a well-rounded offering of toys for families to help foster children’s development in each area – social, physical and cognitive development. Ensuring we have toys to pick and choose from that can really help foster that whole child in each area. “We also provide examples of what type of toy features or play patterns help foster and develop those skills, so the designers can incorporate them into their toys. “So for example a toy suitable for a six-month-old that will grow with them up to 36 months – this framework shows us the types of skills children have to play with the toy and these are the types of features to integrate into that toy to foster that type of skill acquisition. “It’s about providing that foundation for whole child development, it’s also providing an opportunity for children to engage and play and have a great experience and love it, using toys as tools through learning, because as we know children learn through play. “One of the things that really helps our parents or gift givers is providing that developmentally appropriate age grade on toys, to give them guidance in terms of when to buy the toys for different ages and stages. “We also offer different ways to play with their child. We offer up that play-based experience that also provides that optimal magical moment where they actually encounter a smilestone. “Like their first smile or the first time they clap. “It’s not just about the rolling over, sitting up, walking – the smilestones are all about those magical milestones of clapping their hands, of playing peekaboo, of their first word, of that first vocal connection. “When parents or caregivers experience these little milestones, it makes them smile. And for us, it’s all about celebrating childhood and the milestones, and because every time a child reaches one or shares one, everyone smiles.” Developmental smilestones, and the toys designed for them 0-3 months: During this time, your little bundle of joy will begin to return emotions, smiles and holding eye contact. They’ll also be able to lift their head, extent their legs and briefly grasp objects. In terms of cognitive ability, babies will be able to look at objects, listen to sounds and recognise smells. How to play: Give your little one objects for watching, about 8-10 inches from their eyes. Choose toys with different textures and shapes for babies to feel, and put them within reach so they can swat with their hands and feet. 3-6 months: You can expect your baby to start giggling around this time, while playing, and they’ll even start to imitate your facial expressions too. Little ones will be able to turn their heads in all directions and begin to roll over. They’ll also imitate sounds and actions, they will like feeling different textures and be curious to examine objects too. How to play: Play peek-a-boo, or use moving objects paired with sounds and/or lights. Choose a variety of textured materials, and look for toys with a high contrast in bright colours. 6-9 months: Around this time, your little one will start to recognise family members, and they may throw kisses to familiar people. Watch them as they begin to clap their hands and sit up without any support. They’ll like repetition, and be able to follow one-step instructions such as smile or wave. How to play: Try objects that move such as balls or toys with wheels. Babies also love pictures of objects or people in book format, or colourful patterns. They love exploring on their own, pushing buttons, pulling objects and touching different textures. 9-12 months: Start to play games such as hide and seek or peek-a-boo – your little one will like it. Around this age, they’ll begin to crawl, cruising along furniture and turning the pages of a book. They’ll be able to point to named objects and understand simple commands. How to play: Opt for busy activity toys with lots to explore, as well as toys that allow and encourage little ones to sit up, cruise, and start walking. Toys that encourage crawling, such as balls, things that move or vehicle play, are also ideal at this stage. As are toys that encourage early role play, hide-and-seek games, and games of give and take. 12+ months: Making their way to toddlerhood, little ones will be able to show affection with hugs, smiles and pats – especially towards parents. You’ll need to keep your camera to hand, as around this age your baby will take their first steps towards becoming a confidence walker. They’re off! Babies at this age love to explore

June 9, 2022

Crafty Ways To Solve Your Boredom Blues

One of the great conundrums any parent faces is how to keep their kids stimulated. Regardless of how many toys they have, what their screen-time limits are or how many books they still have to read, the boredom blues always manage to strike when parents least expect them to. Fortunately, arts and crafts not only turn boredom into hours of fun, but they are also a great way to bond and practice mindfulness with your kids as well. With a few clicks or a walk down some well stocked aisles, you and your kids can bring all of your arts and craft dreams to life while breezing through your boredom. Home graffiti: The best part about creating your own art is that it is yours. It holds sentimental value. It is part of what ends up making your house a home. One of the best and most fun way to do this is by creating some unique wall art. What you will need is: Fired Earth paint, which is exclusively available at Builders, in a colour of your choosing A step ladder An extender pole Assorted acrylic paints A roller tray and brush Paintbrushes Drop sheet, masking tape and double-sided tape Cloth Adhesive glue Chalk Scissors, goggles and gloves Permanent marker What you’re going to want to do first and foremost is don your protective gear and cover all of the parts of the room that you don’t want to have to scrub clean later. Next apply the background colour to the wall. It is a good idea to have a general sense of what you want you want your masterpiece to look like. From there put your creative juices to work paint with panache. If you lucky that should keep everyone busy for a couple of days. For a step-by-step guide click here. A fun, but less paint intensive, take on this may be to create your own poster wall. There are few things this generation loves more than being unique and curating a wall full of your child’s favourite posters is about as unique as it gets. This idea will also probably appeal more to your teen since finding interesting and quirky ways to express themselves is the hallmark of their age group. If you gather yourself a paintbrush, some wallpaper adhesive, a variety of your favourite posters and a few other items readily found at your local Builders, you can easily create a feature wall that is as distinctive as your Gen Z is. Make your own masterpiece: All it takes to discover that your little one may be the next Nelson Makamo or Lady Skollie is a paint brush, some canvas, and a little paint. Research has shown that unleashing your self-expression on canvas is not only fun but has mental health benefits for both you and your child. Chalk it up: Chalk boards are not just a useful resource for teachers, when used in the home, they can be a fun surface for kids draw on without ruining the walls. Trying to figure out where one would even buy a chalk board in the first place is a lot harder and a lot less fun than simply making your own. All you need is: Some old photo frames Spray on primer Black chalkboard spray paint From here prep your photo frames by carefully removing the glass and applying primer in light and even strokes to both the backing boards and frames. Allow them to dry before adding a second coat. Once your backing boards are dry, you can put them back into the frame and voila, a new chalk board. For an in-depth step-by-step guide click here The best part about arts and crafts is that they don’t just have to be confined to the holidays. You can break them out on weekends, at children’s parties, whenever you feel like doing some fun bonding or if you just want to relieve some stress. Regardless of what the occasion, Builders has the tools for you.

June 9, 2022

Online schooling – how to set your child up for success

Online schooling is on the rise in South Africa, and more families are opting for the flexibility and other benefits of at-home learning. However, it’s important for parents to be mindful of providing a child-friendly workspace that is conducive to learning. A safe, comfortable and well-organised environment is essential for your child to thrive at their online school. When lockdowns in 2020 shut schools down, architect, Henriette Frohlich opted for online school for her son, and saw how fellow parents were struggling to set up suitable workspaces for their children at home. She realised that there was a great need for affordable child-friendly workspace furniture that was locally made. Alongside her husband Markus, an engineer, they started work on designing and producing smart and adjustable furniture and launched HF Design. Henriette says, “Most parents embrace the need to invest in a good curriculum, but few pay attention to their child’s learning environment. We encourage parents to create workspaces for their children that are accessible. That way your child can control his/her own learning experience and journey, without having to be directed/guided by parents. Also think about improving lighting, reducing noise and ensuring your child is sitting comfortable on workspace furniture that is made for his/her bodysize. That way your child will be set up for a lifetime of learning.” Henriette and Markus will be joining Koa Academy Principal, Mark Anderson as well as Occupational Therapist, Nasreen Cariem for a free parent’s webinar ‘Setting Up for Home Learning Success’ on Tuesday, 14 June from 7:30pm to 8:30pm. Nasreen says that parents of at-home learners need to be on the lookout for the tell-tale signs that the child’s workspace is not working well for them. “Be aware if your child is regularly distracted and inattentive, or not completing tasks,” she says. “It’s also important to hear them if they are complaining about their learning set-up. It can be easy to assume that children may be acting out or presenting excuses, when in fact their struggles with their learning environment are real and need to be addressed so that they enjoy being in their workspace.” Mark highlights a fundamental for at-home learners – “Emotional safety is key,” he says. “This is the parent’s number one job for a child learning at home and will be the greatest indicator of the child’s academic success. We all learn best when we feel secure and in control. When you are setting up your child’s learning space, consult them! They need to be personally invested in their own workspace. Set your child up in a space that is calm, clean and has good lighting. It doesn’t have to be dead quiet, but it does need to be controlled. Give them a dedicated space for their learning where they can store everything they need, such as their computer and stationery. It doesn’t have to be big, but it does need to be theirs. This is particularly important for younger learners who are still mastering the practicalities of executive functions like following a schedule and meeting deadlines.” Henriette highlights 3 basics for an at-home learner’s workspace: The most important thing is lighting – “If your child is struggling to absorb the content, they will lose interest quickly. Bad lighting may also contribute towards poor eyesight later in life. Many parents place their child’s desk near the window, which can lead to blinding natural light or overheating of the work area. Best is to position your child’s desk perpendicular to the window, allowing natural light to fall on the desk. Natural light is the best, followed by indirect light. The second most important thing is comfort – “Your child must sit comfortably at their desk. The desk and bench or chair should be set at the right height, so as to strengthen core muscles and prevent slouching and discomfort. If a child is not sitting comfortably, they won’t sit for long.” The third most important thing is noise management – “Is your child’s workspace in an area that is shielded from disruptive noises? You can use room dividers such as plants, bookshelves, screens or curtains to create a private space for your child and make quality headphones available for online sessions if they are sharing space with other members of the family. Ensure that your child can control the noise in their area, so that they can focus and concentrate when necessary.” There is no one size-fits-all when it comes to creating an optimal at-home learner workspace, and solutions are going to differ from home to home, and learner to learner. Nasreen agrees with Henriette’s top priorities. She says, “For both older and younger learners, a well-organised space with adequate lighting is of utmost importance. An environment which is relatively free of distractions helps to enable concentration, and a comfortable chair and desk with the right ergonomics will allow for prolonged sitting as well as writing comfortably. The child’s work area doesn’t have to be expansive but there should be adequate space for school materials, stationery and online devices. In making set-up choices, parents need to consider their children’s particular needs and learning styles. Some siblings work well sharing the at-home learning space, others may be territorial and do better on their own. For some children, having the family around in the background promotes accountability and ensures they don’t feel lonely, while other focus better if they are on their own. Obviously, the family’s resources in terms of space available, furnishings and storage systems also need to be taken into consideration.” Parents of at-home learners have a host of questions when it comes to setting up and organising a workspace for their child. Should siblings share an at-home learning space? Is it okay for my child to do their schoolwork on their bed? Is an entry-level laptop adequate for online school? What are the best storage hacks for school materials? I’m working from home, should my children share my workspace so that I can keep an eye on them? Mark, Henriette, Markus and Nasreen will be unpacking the answers at the ‘Setting Up For Home Learning

June 8, 2022

HOW TO APPLY TO UNIVERSITY WITH CAMBRIDGE QUALIFICATIONS

This is an exciting time for South African matriculants as they complete the final stage of their school career and prepare to enter the next phase of their academic life. We are delighted to see how our students have excelled academically and are now submitting their applications for a place at university next year. GUIDELINES We share here some guidelines to help students and parents with the process of applying for university entrance. 1. Choose a course of study The first step is to select your preferred course of study, and to have a second or third option to include in your application. 2. Choose your university You will need to check which universities offer your preferred undergraduate degree. It is a good idea to apply to more than one university to keep your options open and to improve your chances for a successful application. 3. Check the admission requirements 3.1 Check the conditions and requirements to gain exemption for entry to South African public universities and make sure that you meet the requirements. The Cambridge University Recognition South Africa document provides a summary of the Universities South Africa (USAf) minimum admission requirements for exemption for Bachelor Degree purposes. You can download this document from: https://globalvillageint.com/index.php/academics/university-admission. The exemption requirements are also generally stated in the university’s undergraduate prospectus or undergraduate admissions requirements document. 3.2 You also need to check the minimum requirements for your specific degree and make sure that you will meet these minimum requirements. Each university faculty has different subject and grade requirements. Cambridge students should check the university’s faculty requirements for international schools/applicants with non-South African school-leaving qualifications. Contact the university Admissions Office or search the university’s website for admission requirements for undergraduate international curricula/admission criteria for applicants with non-South African school-leaving qualifications. These requirements are set out in the Undergraduate Prospectus by some universities. You can view available university faculty requirements for 2023 at: https://globalvillageint.com/index.php/academics/university-admission 3.3 Certain universities require that students write the National Benchmark Tests (NBT). Check the requirements of your selected university and faculty to see what is required for your application. For more information about the National Benchmark Tests: Visit: https://www.nbt.ac.za/ Call 021 650 3523 4. Apply for admission Applications for admissions have opened. It is important that you check the application closing dates and that you apply as early as possible. The closing dates for applications vary for each university and for different courses. You should consult your university of choice to find out the closing date for applications. Applications for some courses and universities close as early as 30th June, so we suggest that you complete your application as soon as possible. Admission to non selection programmes in some university faculties is based on the availability of places and when the available number of places for a specific programme have been filled, the programme is closed for further applications. You will need to submit your GCSE certificates (and AS certificates if already completed) in the application process and should have these available to scan and upload according to the university’s requirements. You will also be required to give the university an indication of the subjects for which you are still expecting results, by uploading some form of official proof of these subjects. Each university has their own requirements, but this can generally be a report, a letter from the school or a Statement of Entry, with the level (GCSE, AS or A-level) on which each subject is taken, clearly indicated. Once your application has been registered, the university will advise you of the next steps. 5. Apply for financial assistance, scholarships and bursaries You can search your preferred university’s website for funding/financial assistance/aid or call them to find out about available financial assistance, scholarships and bursaries. Check the application opening and closing dates and the documents required, to allow enough time to get all the documents ready to submit your application in time. NSFAS Students who wish to study or are already studying at a public university or TVET college and come from a family with an income of R350 000 or less, qualify for a government bursary offered via the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). The bursary covers amounts for accommodation, living allowance, transport and learning materials, aligned with the approved latest DHET guidelines. All South African citizens, SASSA grant recipients, applicants whose combined household income is R350 000 or less per annum, persons with disabilities whose household income is R600 000 or less per annum and students who started studying before 2018 whose household income is R122 000 or less per annum, qualify. Applications for 2023 are open 1 September to 30 November 2022. For more information: Visit: www.nsfas.org.za Call the toll free number:0860 0067 327 Email:[email protected] You can also search the university’s website for funding/financial assistance for more information. University Financial Assistance, Scholarships and Bursaries Each university has additional funding programmes to assist students. Merit, sport and other bursaries are administered by each university. Search the university’s website for university managed student funding/financial assistance and university administered bursaries or scholarships or contact the university to find out more. External Funding Funding is also available from companies and organisations outside of the university. Information can be obtained through a google search. Try these websites: 6. Find accommodation Each university offers a variety of housing options such as university residences, rooms, apartments, etc. Contact the university’s Student Accommodation Office to find out more. Private accommodation is another option. Students can consider staying in a privately run student housing centre, a student house, an apartment or in a room in a private residence. Most universities assist students to find private accommodation. Students should contact the university’s Student Accommodation Office for assistance. Students can also search the internet for private accommodation options or contact local student accommodation agents or estate agents. MATRIC EXEMPTION Students who intend to register at a South African University, need to apply for exemption for degree studies upon receiving their final results. For

June 8, 2022

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST MOISTURISER FOR YOUR SKIN

New generation skincare is smart, well-tested and researched, aimed at improving your skin concerns through using the right active ingredients. Looking like a glazed donut before bed is the new skincare ‘must-do’ with the idea of applying active ingredients on your skin at night letting them seep into your pores overnight leaving you glowing in the morning when you rise. Which is true – but you can get this by using one or even two products instead of your entire skincare vanity. It’s time to practice smart skincare. A moisturiser by definition is used on the skin to prevent dryness. Then – how do you filter through the million different moisturisers on the market and choose the best one for your skin? The answer is simple – know your skin type and skin concerns. Once you know this, its as easy as hop skip and jump right onto the perfect formulation of moisturiser for you! The ART of being SMART There are two active ingredients you need in your moisturiser – Ceramide and Raspberry Extract. Here’s the tea on these two smart ingredients: Ceramides are a class of fatty acids called lipids. They’re naturally found in skin cells and make up about 40 to 50 percent of the outer layer of your skin (epidermis). Ceramides are important for retaining your skin’s moisture and preventing the entry of germs into your body. Ceramides are produced naturally by the body in the sebaceous glands but sometimes our body can run short of of them – especially as we age. Therefore, we need this ingredient in our creams and moisturisers to help pick us up where needed. It’s a skincare fundamental and suitable for all skin types. Shop the Ultra Hydrating 1% Ceramide Cream. A ceramide cream can be used morning but recommended for night after your serums as a last step in your skincare routine. Remember to cleanse, tone and apply those serums before moisturising. Raspberry Extract – yes you heard right! Extract from the raspberry plant has been studied and shown to promote skin hydration and cell protection as well as provide anti-oxidnt protection when used in skincare. The red extract from the raspberry plant prevents cells from losing excessive water, therefore providing anti-ageing properies and dryness prevention. It can also alleviate direct photodamage to the skin caused by UVB exposure in turn also protecting against inflammatory responses. Another skincare fundamental that is lightweight, moisturising, suitable for skin types and can be used day or night. Apply before your SPF and after your serums. Shop the 1% Rasberry Extract moisturiser. Choose these active ingredients in your moisturisers and you won’t go wrong. Tumi Lehutso at Fundamentals Skincare said: “Smart skincare is vegan, fragrance-free, cruelty-free, cosmeceutical grade and a fraction of the price with absolutely no compromise on formuation and ingredient quality. Skincare is for everyone and should be inclusive. The trick to effective skincare is knowing what type of skin you have and then using the correct products, with the correct ingredients and formulations to accurately treat your skin concerns that is also friendly to your specific skin type. When visiting the Fundamentals Skincare website you will have access to a skincare questionnaire that helps you figure out your skin type and further help is available through the Free consultation booking form. Its all about giving your skin the essentials it needs for good health.” For more information: Shop: https://fundamentals-skincare.co.za Instagram: @fundamentals_skincare Tik Tok: @fundamentals_skincare Facebook: @FundamentalsSkincare

June 8, 2022

MEMORY – take note of the role of MUSIC!

Have you ever heard a song and it has brought back a memory? That memory may include the place where you heard the song, what you were doing at the time, how you felt and sometimes even a sensory trigger, like the memory of a certain taste or smell. The effect is so profound that a heart-warming movement called “Music and Memory” creates personalised playlists for residents with dementia in nursing homes. Apparently, the response is incredible! Eyes light up and bodies start to move with the rhythm, as the music awakens memories of forgotten lives. All this from a piece of music! So why does music impact memory so profoundly? Neuroscientists have analysed the brain mechanisms related to memory, finding that words set to music are the easiest to remember. We can all relate to that – just try and remember anything set to a tune and your powers of recall will be stronger! Apparently, the hippocampus and the frontal cortex are two large areas in the brain associated with memory and they take in a great deal of information every minute. But, we all know from experience, that retrieving all that information is not always easy. However, the structure of a song helps us to remember, because it provides a rhythm, rhyme and sometimes alliteration, which helps to unlock that information with cues. The cues can also include things like the melody, emotions or images that the song lyrics evoke. Neuroscientists are constantly discovering more and more about how music affects memory. A 2009 study done by cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Petr Janata at the University of California, found a potential explanation for the link between music and memory by mapping the brain activity of a group of subjects while they listened to music. Dr. Janata found that songs linked to strong emotions and memories corresponded with fMRI images that had greater activity in the upper part of the pre-frontal cortex, which sits right behind the forehead. This suggests that this area of the brain, which is also responsible for supporting and retrieving long-term memories, acts as a “hub” that links together music, emotions, and memories. The soundtrack of our lives … Janata explains that listening to a piece of familiar music “serves as a soundtrack for a mental movie that starts playing in our head,” calling back memories of a particular person or place. What about music in the brains of children? Over the past 14 years of using music as a catalyst for learning at our Wriggle and Rhyme music classes, we’ve seen, first hand, how music-based activities affect children’s brains. The responsibility to fill children’s brains with positive, learning experiences is not one that we take lightly. We recognize that because our programs are set to music, we are building memories that may last a lifetime. Music education is therefore both a privilege and an exquisite burden! Whether you’re a parent, caregiver or educator, bear that in mind! When it comes to music, everything that you expose your child/ren to needs to be done intentionally, with purpose. You could be impacting your child’s memory for the rest of their lives! So, can I encourage you to build musical memories that evoke rich, joyful experiences for years to come? Because, when it comes to memory, we need to take note of the role of music! Musical resources Wriggle and Rhyme has a range of musical stories which you can access on your favourite streaming service (Apple music, Spotify, iTunes, etc.) or take a look at www.wriggleandrhyme.co.za/our-music . We also have fun, musical episodes on our YOUTUBE channel “Wriggle & Rhyme SA”. Our baby and toddler music classes are available in Cape Town – RONDEBOSCH, CLAREMONT, MELKBOSSTRAND and MEADOWRIDGE. Our pre-school music classes take place at partner pre-schools across the Mother City.

June 7, 2022

DISNEY+ UNVEILS KEY ART AND LAUNCH DATE FOR MARVEL STUDIOS’ “I AM GROOT” SHORTS

Today, Disney+ announced that the latest Marvel Studios addition to their exciting summer lineup, “I Am Groot,” will launch on August 10. “I Am Groot” is a collection of five original shorts starring Baby Groot, everyone’s favorite little tree, and will feature several new and unusual characters. All five shorts will be available for viewers to watch upon launch. There’s no guarding the galaxy from this mischievous toddler! So get ready as Baby Groot takes center stage in his very owns series, exploring his glory days growing up—and getting into trouble—among the stars. Vin Diesel, who is the voice of Groot in the “Guardians of the Galaxy” franchise, voices Baby Groot. The writer/director is Kirsten Lepore, and the executive producers are Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Brad Winderbaum and James Gunn.

June 7, 2022

Estate Planning: Caring For children with special needs

Proper estate planning is one of the most important things you can do for your children. Not only does it spare them the anxiety of having to tussle over your estate while mourning your loss, but it can also serve as a final parting gift from one generation to the next. Despite this, 70% of South Africans still do not have a will in place. This is especially concerning for the parents of the roughly 3 million South Africans who live with disabilities. Louise Danielz, Chief Operating Officer of Sanlam Trust says, “Regardless of your income bracket, it is important to get a professional to help you draft a will. For parents who have children with serious disabilities, estate planning is even more crucial as these children may not ever be able to work and provide for themselves. In these scenarios, trusts are key to ensuring your loved ones are properly provided for, for the rest of their lives, should you not be there to do so in person.” Providing for your disabled beneficiaries after you are gone The most important thing about planning for your child’s future in the event of your passing is making sure that their unique needs are considered. Putting measures in place while you are still alive, and understanding the practical implications of those arrangements, is very important. Danielz suggests doing the following as soon as possible: Ensure you have a valid will: Passing away without a valid will that makes provision for your minor children runs the risk of having their inheritance paid over to the Master of the High Court until they turn 18. This could potentially put their standard of care at risk Nominate a guardian for your minor child(ren): Choose someone you trust to carry out your wishes and care for your child in the best way possible. This can become tricky and time consuming if you have not made adequate plans or had the proper guidance. Above all, get expert advice: If you do not do adequate planning, funds due to minor beneficiaries could be paid to the Master’s Guardian Fund. To avoid this, it is best to set up a testamentary trust in your will to cater for them. Why you need a trust Having a trust is key if you want your estate to be administered, managed, and executed in the best way possible for the beneficiary. Being part of a trust ensures that a dedicated administrator, in conjunction with an elected guardian, acts with due care and diligence in administering the funds in their capacity as trustees. This means that the administrator will consider the maintenance needs of the beneficiary, engage with the guardian, and invest the funds appropriately. Danielz says, “With Sanlam Trust, a dedicated administrator is appointed to engage with the guardian, so that they work together within agreed guidelines to take care of the beneficiary’s immediate and future educational needs if possible. If there is a need to consult with a caregiver, for example an occupational therapist, to make the best decision for the beneficiary, then this will be done.” With the right planning, parents can take care of their disabled loved one long after they have passed on. Danielz concludes, “Planning gives you peace of mind and it also creates continuity and support for your loved ones. It is all about understanding what you want and how this can be achieved.”

June 6, 2022

STUDYING FROM HOME: HOW TO STAY FOCUSED

Technology and easy access to resources have made studying from anywhere a breeze but choosing a space to bunker down at can be subjective. So, think carefully about the variables involved when considering the library, café a friend’s house or your room. The right space can make all the difference. How does your environment affect your studying? Learning environments play a crucial role and different factors can affect learner’s learning ability. Things like seating, light, sounds and even colour have an impact on the way we study, how much we remember and how efficient we are. Positive environments help learners stay engaged, motivated and give learners an overall higher learning ability. So, when it comes to different environments think of the variables and whether or not they work for you. The best and worst places to study? What works for some may not work for others and while some learners thrive in a busy café other require the quiet of a library or the comforts of home. Make sure that the spots you settle on are conducive to your method of learning, allow you to concentrate, and are free of distractions. Collaborative learning: you’ll settle for spots like libraries, study groups or revision groups. While effective, be strict when it comes to organising your time and get don’t beat around the bush – it can become easy to lo lose focus if you’re not intentional, especially when you’re a group of friends. Independent: If you prefer making the most of your own study time, spaces that are comfortable and designed for you are more your speed. Places to avoid: Spots that are known and associated with socializing always tend to make students work harder than they need to because they’re so focussed on trying to stay focussed. Your bed (or the couch) are spots that your brain associates with relaxation and can make it incredibly difficult for you to get into the groove of studying. Benefits of studying at home Benefit 1: Your space Being in your space, surrounded by familiar things and being able to set up your routine can be both freeing and comforting at the same time. A more relaxed environment decreases stress levels which means you absorb information more effectively. Benefit 2: Everything you need Along with comforts, home can come with everything you need; food, pens, papers (thanks mom) and when you have everything at your disposal you spend less time scrambling to find ods and ends and more time behind books. Benefit 3: You can be you The solitude of your room allows you to read aloud, repeat the material constantly, and listen to the music you want to listen to. Plus, you avoid hearing someone’s music escape through their headphones altogether. Your space gives you the freedom to absorb information your way. Benefit 4: On your own time Regardless of the various tell tales that highlight which times are the best for studying, you can implement what your best study time is when you’re in your own space. Unlike a library with closing hours, your home is open any time of day. So being an early bird or night owl can work whenever you want. Benefit 5: Productive Your study breaks can be productive, two birds with one stone as they say. You can complete a few house chores and task an exercise circuit or tick something off of your own to-do list. Sure, going for a run mid-library session is doable, but that might mean getting back to the books in sweaty gym attire – when you’re home you can at least freshen up! Being in your own space and having your own time may require some structure or help and learning and revision platforms can be a great way to help learners stay the course. Paper Video is an online revision platform that focusses on helping grade 8 to 12 learners improve their Maths, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and Accounting. Learners can access past exam papers and work through the different subject with step-by-step video guides. Try Paper Video for yourself or find out more by visiting www.papervideo.co.za Stay focussed while studying at home Now we’ve managed to build a strong case for studying at home, or at least we’d like to think we did, and while it seems convenient, the home comes with its own set of challenges. Procrastination, distraction, lack of organisation and sharing the space with family members – things can get pretty loud and in your face. So here are a few things to bear in mind when choosing your home as your study safe haven. Tip 1: Remove distractions Homey comforts bring distractions like television, iPads and cell phones. Avoid devices at all cost and find a designated study spot that puts you out of harm’s way. If you know family members are going to be up and about, avoid common areas like the lounge or open dining room areas. Tip 2: Dedicate a space to study in Our brains need structure and a designates study space works as a notice board for your brain that says “hey, we’re sitting down in this spot, which means it must be time to study.” It’s not a good idea to work in your bed or sofa, spots where your body is known to tune out. Check out how you can set up your study space here: Tips for your at home study space. Tip 3: A change of pace Create breaks in your routine and make things interesting for yourself. Go for a run, take a break and play a memory game or get a few chores out of the way. If you give your brain a break it will reward you by working more efficiently. Tip 4: Manage your time Set a timetable for yourself, block out your time and set timers if you have to. Studying at home takes self-discipline and you need to keep yourself accountable. Set reasonable limits for how much time you spend studying each day and break your

June 6, 2022

Failure to ovulate? Ovaria by Lamelle Pharmaceuticals could be your simple fertility solution

As the creators of Ovaria, a leading ovarian-health nutritional supplement for women with PCOS, we know your ovaries are an amazing organ. While they’re merely the size of an almond, they can hold up to millions of eggs. Not all of these will mature to become – quite literally – ripe and ready for fertilisation but the average woman can expect to release around 300 to 400 of them. But what happens when you don’t? Many women experience regular periods, but they’re not necessarily producing eggs. It’s only when they start trying to get pregnant – and failing – that they realise they might be dealing with a fertility issue. If this is your situation, your doctor might diagnose you with failure to ovulate. While the term might sound scary, this condition is often reversible. It’s also extremely common. As many as 40% of all women dealing with fertility issues are failing to ovulate and it can be caused by several factors. These include gynaecological conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endocrine problems like a thyroid condition and even your weight. The one thing that all these conditions have in common is unregulated hormones. (Yep, it’s true. Having too little or too much body fat can affect your hormone levels to the point that they can’t help your body produce an egg.) Bring back the balance If you suspect you’re simply not ovulating, you should always chat to your doctor. They’ll be able to run a series of simple tests that will give them a clear idea of your hormonal profile and ovarian health. As far as treatment goes, this will always depend on what’s causing your hormonal imbalance. Potential options include taking oral medication or hormone injections. You might also need to make lifestyle changes to help you manage your stress levels and weight – two things that don’t require a prescription pad. However, if you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS, you might also want to consider a cutting-edge supplement like Ovaria. It’s clinically proven to increase the ovulation rate of PCOS sufferers in just 16 weeks! How does it work? Made from naturally-occurring ingredients, Ovaria contains Myo-inositol, a member of the vitamin B-complex vitamin group as well as the mineral Chromium. Together, they can activate the signalling pathways that regulate your thyroid hormones as well as how your body uses insulin. The latter is important as research shows that women with insulin resistance (an impaired response to insulin that results in high blood sugar) are at a much greater risk for fertility challenges. Also, by regulating your insulin levels, you’ll improve your ovaries function and this normalises your androgen carriers, thereby regulating the male hormones in your body. Ultimately, your hormones are always entwined in an intricate ballet. If one of them is off-kilter, it’s always going to have a knock-on effect on the other. This is why, by normalising your insulin, you can reduce your androgen levels. And the result? It’s often the normalisation of the menstrual cycle and enhanced fertility! Spotlight on insulin For the record – an irregular period and a struggle with fertility – are both symptoms of PCOS, along with weight gain, acne and unwanted hair growth. This makes sense because 80% of women with PCOS also have insulin resistance. Still, even those who don’t have insulin resistance, will struggle with insulin resistant ovaries or ovaries that are challenged by how they use insulin – as well as well as higher than normal androgen levels. As Ovaria addresses all of these things, it’s become a leading supplement to help PCOS sufferers manage their condition. The bottom line Ultimately, if you’ve been trying to get pregnant and find it to be an unexpected challenge, it’s time to see your doctor. Many things could be causing your problem and it might even be due to your partner’s health, not yours. But if you have been diagnosed with PCOS or insulin resistance, consider taking Ovaria. It’s natural, non-prescription and very safe – and has helped to change the lives of many women around the world. So why not yours? www.ovaria.co.za

June 3, 2022

Nia-Sol by Lamelle: A proven way to reduce your risk of Actinic Keratosis

One of many great things about living in sunny South Africa is the weather. Each year, we get an average of 2 500 hours of sun! Alas, along with the beautiful braai weather comes the bad – a high incidence of actinic keratosis (AK), a pre-cancerous lesion caused by unprotected sun exposure. What makes this type of lesion especially worrisome is its inclination to convert to squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the second most common form of skin cancer. Within 10 years, as many as 10% of AK will convert to this potentially deadly disease. Know your risk Did you know that the diagnosis or treatment of AK is the third most typical reason people see a dermatologist? While it’s extremely common, those most at risk for an AK that could turn into cancer are fair-skinned and over the age of 50 with existing AKs or a history of a weakened immune system, such as transplant patients. Interestingly, men are more at risk than women. While being diligent about sunscreen is vital, research has shown this isn’t enough to ensure the very best protection. This is why Lamelle Pharmaceuticals has developed Nia-Sol, an innovative inside-and-out protection system to significantly reduce the risk of actinic keratosis and pre-cancerous lesions. Get two-part protection The result of extensive research regarding sun protection, the Nia-Sol system is a two-part defence. Your first “weapon” is a capsule containing nicotinamide, a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. This is important because both free radicals and inflammation are associated with the progression of AK to SCC. Thus, it’s little wonder that, when taken orally, nicotinamide is associated with a lower incidence of AK. It also helps increase your skin’s cellular energy, giving it the boost it needs to perform essential nucleotide excision repair (NER). While this sounds complicated, it’s a natural process that “snips” out dangerous dimers – kinks in your DNA that can morph into cancer. Another plus? Nicotinamide is proven to inhibit UV-related immunosuppression, essentially damage to your immune system caused by unprotected sun exposure. The second part of the Nia-Sol system is to be applied topically and you can choose from a light textured Gel or the Lotion which is more suitable for larger areas of skin affected by AK’s and sun damage. It also contains that superstar antioxidant, nicotinamide, along with Photolyase, a DNA-repair enzyme with the ability to seek out and correct dimers by 93%! It also reduces MMP-1, an enzyme that damages your skin’s collagen, by 90% while minimising post-actinic damage. The bottom line At the end of the day, new Nia-Sol Lotion, Gel and Capsules by Lamelle Pharmaceuticals are a proven way to significantly reduce your risk of AK and conversion to nonmelanoma skin cancer. It’ll also improve the appearance of red, flaky, rough patches of skin and help maintain your skin’s elasticity while protecting and improving its internal structure. If you fit the risk profile, have been diagnosed with AK or have had a ‘sun damage’ related rough spot removed from your skin, don’t take a chance that could potentially result in deadly consequences. Rather use the very best protection – and pair it with our world-class sunscreen Lamelle Helase 50+ – so you can get back to making the most of your days in the sun. If you fit the risk profile, have been diagnosed with AK or have had a ‘sun damage’ related rough spot removed from your skin, don’t take a chance that could potentially result in deadly consequences. Rather use the very best protection – and pair it with our world-class sunscreen Lamelle Helase 50+ – so you can get back to making the most of your days in the sun. Available at Clicks and online www.lamellepharmaceuticals.co.za www.niasol.co.za

June 3, 2022

Ms. Marvel

Marvel Studios’ “Ms. Marvel” is a new, original series that introduces Kamala Khan, a Muslim American teenager growing up in Jersey City. An avid gamer and a voracious fan-fiction scribe, Kamala is a Super Hero megafan with an oversized imagination—particularly when it comes to Captain Marvel. Yet Kamala feels like she doesn’t fit in at school and sometimes even at home—that is, until she gets superpowers like the heroes she’s always looked up to. Life gets better with superpowers, right? U.S. Premiere: June 8, 2022 Cast: Iman Vellani, Matt Lintz, Yasmeen Fletcher, Zenobia Shroff, Mohan Kapur, Saagar Shaikh, Rish Shah, Fawad Khan, Laurel Marsden, Arian Moayed, Adaku Ononogbo, Alysia Reiner, Azhar Usman, Laith Nakli, Nimra Bucha, Travina Springer, with Aramis Knight Directed by: Adil & Bilall (Adil El Arbi & Bilall Fallah) [Episodes 101 and 106], Meera Menon [Episodes 102 and 103], Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy [Episodes 104 and 105] Head Writer: Bisha K. Ali Executive Producers: Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Brad Winderbaum, Adil & Bilall, Bisha K. Ali, Sana Amanat Co-executive Producers: Trevor Waterson, Freddy Syborn Supervising Producer: Jenna Berger Production Company: Marvel Studios

June 3, 2022

Rise

Audiences have never seen a story like that of the Antetokounmpos. After emigrating from Nigeria to Greece, Charles and Vera Antetokounmpo (Dayo Okeniyi and Yetide Badaki, respectively) struggled to survive and provide for their five children, while living under the daily threat of deportation. With their oldest son still in Nigeria with relatives, the couple were desperate to obtain Greek citizenship but found themselves undermined by a system that blocked them at every turn. When they weren’t selling items to tourists on the streets of Athens with the rest of the family, the brothers– Giannis (Uche Agada) and Thanasis (Ral Agada)– would play basketball with a local youth team. Latecomers to the sport, they discovered their great abilities on the basketball court and worked hard to become world class athletes, along with brother, Kostas (Jaden Osimuwa). With the help of an agent, Giannis entered the NBA Draft in 2013 in a long shot prospect that would change not only his life but the life of his entire family. And last season, Giannis and Thanasis helped bring the Milwaukee Bucks their first championship ring in 50 years, while Kostas played for the previous season champs, the Los Angeles Lakers. “Rise” stars Dayo Okeniyi, Yetide Badaki, Manish Dayal, Taylor Nichols, introducing Ral Agada and introducing Uche Agada. The film was directed by Akin Omotoso (“Vaya”), written by Arash Amel (“A Private War”) and produced by Bernie Goldmann (“300”). Giannis Antetokounmpo and Douglas S. Jones served as the executive producers. U.S. Premiere: Friday, June 24th Director: Akin Omotoso Written by: Arash Amel Producer: Bernie Goldmann Cast: Dayo Okeniyi, Yetide Badaki, Manish Dayal, Taylor Nichols, introducing Ral Agada and introducing Uche Agada

June 3, 2022

DISNEY+ WELCOMES MARVEL STUDIOS’ “DOCTOR STRANGE IN THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS” ON JUNE 22

Disney+ announced today that Marvel Studios’ “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” will begin streaming exclusively on Disney+ June 22. Watch the new online spot to see a special “fan thank you” from Benedict Cumberbatch, Elizabeth Olsen, Benedict Wong and Xochitl Gomez. In Marvel Studios’ “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,” the MCU unlocks the Multiverse and pushes its boundaries further than ever before. Journey into the unknown with Doctor Strange, who, with the help of mystical allies both old and new, traverses the mind-bending and dangerous alternate realities of the Multiverse to confront a mysterious new adversary. “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” stars Benedict Cumberbatch, Elizabeth Olsen, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Benedict Wong, Xochitl Gomez, with Michael Stühlbarg, and Rachel McAdams. The film is directed by Sam Raimi, and Kevin Feige is the producer. Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Eric Hauserman Carroll, Scott Derrickson and Jamie Christopher serve as executive producers. The screenplay was written by Michael Waldron. “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” released in cinemas on May 6, 2022.

June 3, 2022

ALICE’S WONDERLAND BAKERY,’ A DELICIOUSLY FANTASTICAL ANIMATED SERIES FOR PRESCHOOLERS, PREMIERES THIS JUNE

Disney Junior’s ‘Alice’s Wonderland Bakery,’ Inspired by the Beloved Classic, Premieres Saturday, 4 June 2022 on Disney Junior Craig Ferguson, Eden Espinosa, Jon Secada, Bobby Moynihan, Ana Gasteyer, Donald Faison, Yvette Nicole Brown and Vanessa Bayer Among All-Star Guest Voice Cast Disney Junior’s “Alice’s Wonderland Bakery,” a fantastical animated series for pre-schoolers and their families inspired by the world of “Alice in Wonderland,” premieres this Saturday, 4 June 2022 on Disney Junior, DStv channel 309 at 08:30. A vibrant new take on the classic 1951 film, the series centres on Alice, the great-granddaughter of the original heroine and a budding young baker at the enchanted Wonderland Bakery, where her magical treats help bring a new generation of friends and families together. Featuring reimagined versions of familiar iconic characters and introducing memorable new ones, the series stars newcomer Libby Rue as the voice of Alice as well as a slew of celebrity guest stars. See the trailer to the series here. Each episode of “Alice’s Wonderland Bakery,” comprised of two 11-minute stories, centres on Alice’s magical recipe adventures with her best pals, who join her in the bakery to whip up whimsical cakes and treats for friends and neighbours with enchanted kitchen tools and ingredients to help them. “With so many already familiar with the magic and whimsy of the classic story of Alice in Wonderland – we are sure that this wonderful new series will delight and captivate a new generation of fans,” says Christine Service, Senior Vice President and General Manager of The Walt Disney Company Africa. “Disney Junior is delighted to introduce this series that celebrates the culture and creativity of food, highlights self-expression, and imparts age-appropriate social and emotional lessons about friendship, collaboration, and the importance of community,” she adds. Geared to kids ages 2-5 and their families, “Alice’s Wonderland Bakery” features Alice’s recipe adventures with her best pals—Fergie, a white rabbit; Hattie, her madcap friend; and Rosa, the Princess of Hearts, as well as her great grandmother’s magical cookbook, Cookie. Alice is inquisitive, persistent and resourceful as she experiments with her baking and invents out-of-the-box solutions for problems that arise. Food is an important part of Alice’s identity, connecting her family from generation to generation and allowing her to discover the distinct family heritages of her friends, each with a wide array of tastes and traditions. In addition to Rue, the lead voice cast includes Abigail Estrella (“How the Grinch Stole Christmas!”) as Princess Rosa, the Princess of Hearts and Alice’s most artistic friend; CJ Uy (“The Ball Method”) as Hattie, a “mad-hatter” boy and Alice’s silliest friend; Jack Stanton (“Outmatched”) as Fergie the White Rabbit, Alice’s best friend and biggest fan; Secunda Wood (“Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous”) as Cookie, the magical cookbook that once belonged to Alice’s great grandmother; and Audrey Wasilewski (“Mad Men”) as Dinah, Alice’s pet cat who is always at her side. Max Mittelman (“Spider-Man”) recurs as Cheshire Cat, Alice’s mysterious and playful friend and one of the most iconic Wonderland characters. “Alice’s Wonderland Bakery” is produced by Disney Television Animation. Emmy® Award-nominated Chelsea Beyl (Peabody Award-winning “Doc McStuffins”) is executive producer, and Frank Montagna (“Elena of Avalor”) is co-executive producer and art director. Ciara Anderson (“Harley Quinn”) is producer, Lisa Kettle (“Mira, Royal Detective”) is story editor, and Emmy-nominated Nathan Chew (“Elena of Avalor”) is supervising director. The writing team consists of Melinda LaRose (“Vampirina”), Michael Rodriguez (“Sharkdog”), Marisa Evans-Sanden (“Fancy Nancy”), Stuart Friedel (“Clifford the Big Red Dog”) and Sara Karimipour (“Ryan’s Mystery Playdate”), and episodic directors are Steven Umbleby (“Monsters at Work”) and Arielle Yett (“The Chicken Squad”). Emmy winner John Kavanaugh (“Sofia the First,” “Elena of Avalor”) serves as the series’ songwriter/music director and Matthew Margeson (“Rocketman”) is composer.

June 3, 2022

Alice’s Wonderland Bakery – Episodic Synopsis

Episode 1 “Unforgettable Unbirthday” – After presenting a birthday cake for Princess Rosa goes wrong, Alice finds the perfect solution and surprises her with an unforgettable Unbirthday Cake. *Broadway star Eden Espinosa (“Wicked”) guest stars as the Queen of Hearts. “Picnic for One” – The Cheshire Cat puts in a colossal order with Alice for a picnic that he is hosting in the Tulgey Wood, but when Alice and friends come across him in the woods, it seems his party might be a bit lonelier than he let on. Episode 2 “Try Again Tart” – When Hattie wins the Queen’s tastiest tart contest, he needs help with trying to recreate his dish. “Pie Pressure” – When Alice becomes overwhelmed with orders at the bakery, Fergie offers to help but cuts corners to meet deadlines, and his pies turn into a pie-tastrophy. Episode 3 “No Palace Like Home” – Princess Rosa invites Alice, Hattie and Fergie for a royal sleepover at the Hearts Palace, but when Hattie’s bedtime routine is disrupted, Alice knows just the thing to make him feel better: a taste of home. “A Royal Remembrance” – After an attempt from Rosa and Alice to recreate a beloved recipe for Rosa’s Abuelo, the King of Hearts, doesn’t turn out as planned, Abuelo assures the girls that the most important ingredient was the love they made it with. *Multiple GRAMMY® Award winner Jon Secada guest stars as the King of Hearts. Episode 4 “Alice’s Stormy Afternoon” – Alice makes a treat for Mother Rose’s baby buds but goes overboard with a special ingredient. *Broadway star Mandy Gonzalez (“Hamilton”) guest stars as Mother Rose. “Into the Tulgey Wood” – Rosa’s first camping trip goes awry when the Card Guards insist on accompanying her, and their overprotective nature interferes at every step of the way. Episode 5 “Gallymoggers Granola” – When Hattie eats too much of Cheshire Cat’s granola, he starts to disappear just like Cheshire, so Alice must find the perfect recipe to bring him back. “Sour Grapes” – Rosa attends her first Great Grape Picnic, where she tries new foods with Alice’s and friends’ help. *WATCH ALICE’S WONDERLAND BAKERY ON DISNEY JUNIOR, DSTV CHANNEL 309, EVERY WEEKEND AT 08:30AM

June 3, 2022

These are the changes you need to make to your beauty routine when the temperature drops

When it comes to beauty, there’s more to a season change than swapping out shades of eyeshadow and lipstick. As it gets colder, you need to take into account that changes in temperature can have a major effect on the skin. This affects not only the health and texture of the skin, but also your makeup application. Make these small changes to your daily beauty routine to keep your skin soft, healthy and moisturised as we head into the colder months. Increase hydration We typically associate dry and dehydrated skin with winter, but our skin can start to lose moisture from the beginning stages of autumn. If your summer skincare regime consisted of lighter lotions and gel cleansers, you might want to switch to richer creams and milky or creamy cleansers for the colder months. Look for products containing hyaluronic acid, an excellent hydrator that helps add and lock moisture into the skin. We recommend Creightons H2O Boost Overnight Mask (R169.95). This nourishing cream with hyaluronic acid a works overnight to improve skin’s elasticity and intensely hydrate, so you can wake up to a dewy, revitalised complexion. Add a serum to your skincare regime If your regime doesn’t already include a serum, now is the time to add one. Applied after cleansing / toning and before your moisturiser, serums contain targeted ingredients that help address specific concerns, be it dryness, pigmentation or breakouts. For an added hydration boost, invest in a good quality serum and allow it to absorb for a minute or two before following with a hydrating moisturiser. If your complexion tends to get a little dull during winter, try a radiance-promoting serum like Creightons 2% Vitamin C Serum (R139.95). It melts into the skin releasing beneficial ingredients like vitamin C, natural fruit acids and enzymes, to hydrate and enhance your natural glow. If hydration is a bigger concern, try Creightons H2O Boost Hyaluronic Serum (R179.95). It helps instantly boost the skin’s hydration levels and renews dehydrated skin. Don’t forget to exfoliate Regular exfoliation is beneficial all year round, but it’s especially important in autumn and winter when skin gets drier and is more likely to experience clogged pores due to dry and dead skin cells accumulating on the surface on the skin. Instead of a physical scrub, we recommend using an exfoliating pad that contains a chemical or enzymatic exfoliating ingredient. It’s gentler on the skin and offers a deeper exfoliation. NIP+FAB Glycolic Fix Daily Cleansing Pads (R379.95) are soaked in 2.8% glycolic acid to retexture, resurface and exfoliate the skin for a smoother-looking appearance and increased radiance. Switch to liquid makeup formulas Powder foundation, blush, bronzer and highlighter is great during summer, because the powder formula helps absorb some of the excess moisture and shine on the skin. It also stays in place better than liquid formulas do, as it doesn’t melt as easily when exposed to heat. In winter, you may want to swap out your powder formulas for liquid formulas, as they are more hydrating on drier winter skin. Plus, if your skin is already a little bit dry, a powdery texture will exaggerate the dryness, leaving your skin texture looking flaky. We recommend wet n wild PhotoFocus Dewy Foundation (R129.95) for a dewy finish that will enhance your skin’s radiance. Replace your mattifying primer with an illuminating or hydrating one Mattifying primer formulas are great to control shine during summer, but in winter they can leave skin looking dull. Opt for a hydrating or illuminating formula instead. After all, skin needs a little bit of help when it comes to maintaining its luminosity in the colder months, plus the more hydration you can sneak into your regime, the better. Try wet n wild PrimeFocus Primer Serum (R149.95). This lightweight, ultra-hydrating water-based serum creates the perfect canvas for a smooth, even complexion, allowing your foundation to glide on effortlessly for a luminous, flawless finish. Go for gloss Matte lipstick looks fantastic, but it can have a drying effect on even the most supple of lips. If your lips are prone to dryness, flaking or cracking during winter, swap out your matte lipstick for a glossy formula instead. Glossy lipsticks typically offer more hydration and don’t have a drying effect. Try wet n wild Megalast High Shine Lipstick (R99.95), a nourishing, luscious lipstick infused with lip-loving ingredients including murumuru butter, mango butter, and sunflower and watermelon seed oils. If lip gloss consistency is more your thing, try wet n wild Megalast Liquid Catsuit Hi Shine Lipstick (R109.95). It combines the comfort and shine of a gloss with the high-pigment of a lipstick, giving your lips brilliant, high-shine and ultra-pigmented lip lacquer to deliver a mirror-like gloss finish. It’s infused with lip-loving ingredients to provide superior moisture.

June 3, 2022

NEW AUTUMN WINTER COLOUR COLLECTIONS – ICONIC & COLOR VIBE WITH ADDED SILICON

What is silicon (silicium)? Silicon is the chemical element with atomic number 14, symbol Si. It is the 2nd most abundant element in the Earth’s crust, after oxygen (about 26%). It does not exist in nature in a free form, but in the formof silicon dioxide (SiO2) as amorphous silica (in sand), mineral silica (quartz, …) or other silicates (kaolinite, mica, …). Silicon is one of the beneficial minerals specifically absorbed by plants and is essential for their proper growth. It is present in human connective tissues (skin, aorta, bones, hair, tendons, …). The benefits of silicon Silicon plays a major role in the resistance and flexibility of connective tissues. In the skin, it has a protective effect by strengthening the skin barrier, accelerating the healing processes and improving the clinical signs associated with age as well as the quality of nails and hair. In the body, only organic silicon can be assimilated. Organic silicon derivatives are therefore of particular interest in cosmetic products, because they allow the bioavailability of silicon in the skin, hair andnails, in order to strengthen them. As a reminder, inorganic silicon (example: silica, talc, mica, …) only gives a mechanical protective effect as a mineral filler. Silicon at MAVALA Inorganic silicon is found in particular in Mava-White, Color-Matt and Ridge Filler. Organic silicon is now present in the two new nail polish collections – Iconic Color’s and Color Vibe Collection, in the form of an organic silicon derivative (INCI: Dimethyl Oxobenzo Dioxasilane). Byincreasing the level of silicon present in the nails, it thus contributes to improve their quality and resistance. THE ICONIC COLLECTION – R105 ex VAT ICONIC Color’s, iconic and timeless elegance, with a contemporary touch! The fashion of the Autumn/Winter 2022 catwalks gives pride of place to natural,comforting shades that inspire confidence and balance… A peaceful lull after the storm… We wander with delight through a universe of earthy hues. A minimal chromatic palette ofcream, ochre, cho- colate and caramel, mixed with terracotta and sand colour gradients, adds a few touches of light to a range of more neutral mineral shades, inspired by the wonders of nature. Timeless camel, warm and chic, is flirting with everlasting grey, which strikes out as the utmost charming asset of the season, while beige harmonizes this sweet symphony of classic colours. In this natural shelter of generous shades and fabrics, the woman of the moment finds thepower to recharge her batteries. Carried by this deliberately comforting lightness, she canexpress her personality in a chic and slightly sophisticated style, infused by contemporary city life. Like her, you will naturally let yourself be tempted by the ICONIC Color’s collection ofMAVALA, with its immi- nently iconic shades, which fully embodies this desire to combine comfort and elegance: Inverness: A deep slightly pearly grey, everlasting like a shimmering Scottish loch in the starry night Detroit: An intense blue-grey, softened light through the winter clouds over an American metropolis Manaus: A sultry deep red, voluptuous like the upbeat energy of a Brazilian night Muscat: A woodsy tan red, rooted in an untouched nature of the Thousand and One Night’s realm Rangoon: A shiny burnt henna, endless splendour of an Asian treasure Salamanca: A delicate sandy beige, sweet invitation of wandering through the lanes of an Hispanic city THE COLOUR VIBE COLLECTION – R105.00 ex VAT Driven by the desire to challenge the status quo, the beauty artists are turning the runway shows of the Autumn/Winter 2022 into a striking kaleidoscopic firework. On the catwalks, a deluge of pop and colour block creates a fearless rainbow, under which transgression is the rule. Everything is permitted, thus everything is possible. Make way for bright, vibrant, explosive shades that convey an obvious thirst for life. Fiery and electric hues of blue, violet, pink and vermilion are on stage with fluorescent colours. Unusual greens, deep and powerful, invite themselves to this so colourful party and embody self-assurance and poise. Unusual forms and materials fusion with very expressive shades and dispense doses of joy in small dashes of colour, like these ultra-colourful and wacky accessories that add pop to any outfit. This 100% colour trend, emblematic of the digital generation, is divinely instagrammable. Making new experi- ments, daring dissonance, breaking codes: in this pop and clubhouse atmosphere, there is no half-measure. Dream or reality? It doesn’t matter! The lack of freedom and spontaneity during this too-long confined game has given birth to a liberating energy where diversity and positivity merge to metamorphose the world… It is up to you now to play and to invent your own codes, with the COLOR VIBE Collection of MAVALA, with its breathtaking and audacious flashy shades: Red Red: A dazzling red red, incarnation of life in full swing Grass Green: A deep and powerful green, reminiscence of nature saturated with water and light Pushy Purple A luminous and joyful violet, the happiness of regained liberty Mellow Yellow: A soft mimosa yellow, magnificently sunny Bold Blue: An intense cerulean blue, the energy of wildest dreams Party Pink: A sparkling and luminous pink, euphoria of improvised parties STOCKISTS : Mavala is available online at www.mavala.co.za, www.takealot.com, Dischem and Clicks stores nationwide

June 3, 2022

MATRICS: 3 CRUCIAL MID-YEAR FACTS TO KEEP IN MIND

As Matric mid-year exams kick into high gear this week, it is important for students to get an eagle’s eye view of the significance and importance of these exams – to provide them with perspective regarding the assessment’s role in the greater scheme of their final year, as well as their prospects post-Matric, an education expert says. “Matric students often tend to look at final NSC exams and think that is the big one on which all attention should be focused, but that is only part of the story,” says Nola Payne, Senior Head of Programme at The Independent Institute of Education, SA’s largest and most accredited private higher education provider. “In fact, Matric mid-year exams have a unique significance in the big picture and should not be viewed as merely a trial run for final exams, because it plays its own medium to long term role – in various ways – in the outcomes and prospects for Grade 12,” Payne says. She says the mid-year exams will be more demanding than any exams written before in one’s school career, and provide a good indication of what will be expected from students in their finals, while also providing valuable insights into how they should approach the rest of the year. “The mid-year exams allow students to hone their skills as well as identify gaps in their knowledge and understanding,” says Payne. She adds that in addition to serving as a dry-run for finals, students writing mid-year exams should also keep the following in mind: 1. YOUR MID-YEAR PERFORMANCE IS IMPORTANT Mid-year marks are important primarily for two reasons: firstly, because they contribute to a student’s year mark and secondly, because they can use these marks to get provisional acceptance when they apply to a university. This means learners must do as well as they possibly can in these exams, to hedge their bets should they face unexpected challenges later in the year. Learners who did well in Grade 11 can already use those marks to apply for higher education, but ultimately an institution will only give final admission based on final marks, and Matric mid-year exam marks contribute to these. Performing well in your mid-years also gives you a confidence boost as you move into the final stretch of the year, because you can focus your effort where it is really needed, rather than having to keep working on parts of the curricula that you should already have mastered. 2. BUT… YOUR MID-YEAR PERFORMANCE IS NOT THE FINAL WORD ON YOUR PROSPECTS Although a good mid-year performance is undoubtedly tremendously beneficial, not doing as well as you hoped does not signal the end of the road. It should be kept in mind that after the mid-years, you still have several months to throw everything at your studies and that with focus and a concerted effort, you can substantially improve your performance towards the end of the year. In this respect, your mid-years will provide valuable insights for you to use when strategising the rest of the year. With the help of your teachers, tutors and school support systems, you can use your performance to develop a framework for the rest of the year to ensure that you address those areas you found challenging and which impacted negatively on your performance. It might also be that your mid-years show definitively that your plans for next year might need some additional consideration. If, for instance, you wanted to do a qualification at an institution for which you are most definitely not going to qualify no matter how much time and effort you put in, you are now able to objectively consider your plans and devise a new strategy by researching your options and speaking to student support services at higher education institutions. This will allow you to take the pressure off yourself if your vision was not aligned with reality, and help you to find a path better suited to your unique skills and strengths. 3. YOUR MID-YEAR EXAM SIGNALS THAT YOUR STUDY APPLICATION DEADLINE IS TICKING With the increased competition for tertiary study space, particularly for popular and respected institutions and qualifications, it is important that learners apply for higher education opportunities as soon as possible. This might not seem like a priority when studying for your exams, but if you are serious about pursuing studies after school it must not be left for much longer. Thousands of Matrics have already applied for higher education, and if you have not yet joined their ranks, you need to do so sooner rather than later. As the year progresses and the final exams start to loom, you will be even less inclined to spend time and energy on investigating your study options. It is therefore ideal for those who have not yet done so, to use their June holidays to go visit higher education institutions – whether online or in person by appointment – to discuss various offerings and their related career paths. When doing so, remember that it is also important to ask institutions about their post-graduate support and work-integrated learning components in their curricula. “This is a really exciting time in the educational journeys of students. Yes, it is challenging and the cause of much nervous excitement at times, but you are truly now putting the finishing touches on your school career as you prepare for the next part of your life and entering adulthood,” says Payne. “As the saying goes, we need to be able to walk and chew gum at the same time, and this holds true for Matrics right now. You need to do your absolute best and focus right to the end during your mid-year exams, but at the same time you need to constantly review your strategy and adjust your path as necessary. You also need to consider how you are now walking towards your future, and put in place the building blocks to get there.”

June 3, 2022

How much money do you need to survive?

With the rapidly rising cost of living, it may not be clear how much money South Africans need to survive, both while earning a living and in retirement. JustMoney.co.za, which helps South Africans to inform themselves about personal finance, researches some basic expenses and their current costs. There’s also general advice on stretching those rands and staying afloat. Gareth Price, founder of both Cloudworx and Investmint, and CFO at BackaBuddy, says that people have different ideas about what it means to survive financially. He explains that, in general, households should prioritise the basics, such as food, rent, transport, electricity, education, burial insurance, debt repayments, basic hygiene and medical products. He believes that, on average, these costs add up to R7,000-R9,000 per month. “If you want to move into the middle class, school fees and rent become more expensive, and you may choose to purchase a car rather than relying on public transport. On top of this, you may take out medical aid and perhaps invest in a savings plan. Here, you’re looking at an income of between R35,000 and R45,000 per month,” says Price. He notes, however, that the vast majority of South Africans earn less than R3,500 a month, with only the top 1% earning around R45,000. To put this into context, a state old age pension grant offers a maximum of R1,890 per month, or R1,910 if you’re older than 75 years. Putting a value on retirement Christelle Louw, advisory partner at Citadel, says that to retire sustainably and securely in South Africa, you will need at least 20 to 30 times your required annual expenses as accumulated capital over your lifetime. According to Statistics South Africa’s employment report for the fourth quarter of 2021, the average worker’s salary in South Africa is R23,982 per month. This amounts to R287,784 annually, which would require a minimum of R5,755,680 (R287,784 multiplied by 20) for a sustainable retirement. Louw adds that financial independence is only achieved by 6% of the population, and that 94% of South Africans will not be able to sustain their income from their savings. This means that their lifestyles will have to be adjusted downwards during retirement, such as living in a smaller home. Shafeeka Anthony, marketing manager of JustMoney, says that the Covid-19 pandemic, job losses and price hikes for household goods and services have exacerbated many people’s already perilous financial situations. South Africans have numerous concerns, from security, electricity and transport, to quality education for their children. “It is absolutely vital to assess your financial situation honestly, and to put a plan in place. Getting back to basics and focusing on essentials is the only way that most people will cope with their present needs, let alone growing investments for when they can no longer work.” Anthony offers the following advice, based on tried and tested fundamentals: 1 – Work out a budget: Track money coming in, versus your regular monthly bills and variable expenses – those that change from month to month. Bank and credit card statements are a helpful place to start. Soon you will see where your money goes, and where you can cut back. 2 – Forget brand loyalty: Draw up a weekly shopping list and buy your supplies where you will get the best value. Try out a different grocery brand, you may be pleasantly surprised at the savings. Avoid popping into convenience stores for a few items, this comes at a price. 3 – Reduce your debt: Firstly, debt is acceptable if it takes a form such as a home loan to purchase your own property. Debt is bad it you borrow money to buy the latest gadgets. If more than a third of your income goes to paying your debt, and you find yourself taking out loans to get through the month, get help before a legal process is started against you. Professional debt review companies will advise you on debt relief and protection from creditors. 4 – Save: It is essential to save, even if it is only a small amount every month. For example, stop buying coffee take-outs, and cancel a gym membership that you hardly use. Allocate these amounts to a separate account, and you will be surprised at how these add up over a year. 5– Build an emergency fund: An emergency fund of at least three months’ income will help mitigate the need to take on debt, or liquidate investments during cash-strapped times. 6 – Check your medical aid: Read over your medical aid plan to ensure it still meets your needs. Inform yourself about, and use, the benefits. 7 – Maintain Insurance: It’s always best to prepare for life’s unexpected events. Shop around to get the best deal, but do insure your property and vehicle with a reputable company that should pay out when required. 8 – Grow your income sources: Many people are taking on additional part-time work, from book-keeping to teaching English. Online learning has also made it easier to build your skills and qualifications. Explore new ways to boost your income. 9 – Stay money-motivated: Checking how well you manage to stick to your budget at the end of every month is the most important part of the exercise. Plan for a little treat if you come in on target. “When we have become used to living a certain way, and enjoying a certain standard of living, the idea of making changes may feel very uncomfortable at first,” says Anthony. “Taking on debt or eating out regularly may seem completely normal. However, making some changes is the only way that many people will be able to cope with the rising cost of living, and still have funds left over for retirement. “When planning how to adapt and trim expenses, it helps if you think of the process as taking control of your life. Focus on your long-term goals. Being debt-free is great for your bank balance and your mental health and you are better positioned to realise your dreams.” JustMoney provides busy and digitally savvy South Africans with easy access to financial products,

June 3, 2022

Infertility – Empower yourself: have the conversation

It is estimated that globally, infertility affects 8–12 % of women who are 20–44 years of age.1 Physiological causes in men account for 20–30 % of cases of infertility and physiological causes in women for 20–35 %, while 25–40 % are due to issues in both partners. In 10–20 % of cases, no cause is found.1 Women starting their families at an older age is one of the most common explanations for infertility today.1 It is vital that those facing infertility issues empower themselves by having the necessary conversation about fertility treatment with their partner and doctor, because there are interventions if treatment is sought sooner rather than later. What is infertility? Infertility is defined as failure to establish a clinical pregnancy after 12 months of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse or due to an impairment of a person’s capacity to reproduce, either as an individual or with his/her partner.2 If the woman is older than 35, she and her partner should seek an evaluation if they have not been able to conceive after six months.3 Causes of infertility All of the steps during ovulation and fertilisation need to happen correctly in order to get pregnant. Sometimes, issues that cause infertility in couples are present at birth, and sometimes they develop later in life – they can affect one or both partners. Causes of male infertility may include abnormal sperm production or function, problems with the delivery of sperm, overexposure to certain environmental factors (including cigarette smoking, anabolic steroid use, marijuana, alcohol, and certain medications), and damage related to cancer and its treatment.3 Causes of female infertility may include ovulation disorders, uterine or cervical abnormalities, fallopian tube damage or blockage, endometriosis, early menopause, pelvic adhesions (bands of scar tissue from pelvic infection, appendicitis, endometriosis or abdominal or pelvic surgery), and cancer and its treatment.3 Infertility during the COVID-19 pandemic The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in increased distress among many people – particularly those already experiencing major stressors in their lives such as problems associated with fertility.4 Dr Sulaiman Heylen, President of the Southern African Society of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecological Endoscopy (SASREG), says: “Many women who may have been trying to conceive for 3–4 years and needed fertility treatment, but couldn’t access it because of COVID-19 lockdowns, have experienced higher levels of anxiety during the pandemic due to treatment delays. This, in turn, is associated with more negative emotions, lower expectations of future pregnancy, and greater stress and depressive symptoms.” Recent studies on perceptions of the COVID-19 pandemic among women with fertility issues, have showed that although women with fertility problems have perceived the pandemic as negative and disruptive, those who have higher optimism may be less affected.4 Dr Heylen says: “Empowering yourself through gaining knowledge is a great way to boost that optimism. For those facing infertility issues, this entails having the necessary conversation about fertility treatment with their partner and doctor. Fertility starts a slow decline when women are in their twenties – but about half of the women who come to fertility centres are already over 35 years of age. It is at age 35 that one starts to see a more rapid decline in fertility.” “Women would be far better served by investigating fertility options and fertility preservation earlier in their lives. Even if they only plan on having a family later, they can make sure that they are aware of steps that they can take, such as freezing their eggs to try to preserve their ability to have a child later on.” Dr Heylen says that while COVID-19 had a major impact on fertility care through lack of access, the rebound effect is that fertility facilities have never been busier. “Women are feeling more comfortable now to proceed with fertility treatment. Doctors also know more about COVID-19 in terms of impact on pregnancy health and fertility, and that it does not cause abnormalities in pregnancy, nor miscarriage, unless the case of COVID-19 is very severe,” says Dr Heylen. “We have seen many women who have had COVID-19 in the first trimester, and they have been absolutely fine – which is marvellous news. Women may also be safely vaccinated against COVID-19 during fertility treatment, as the vaccine has been proven to have no impact on fertility,” says Dr Heylen. Treatment options Many people may delay fertility treatment because they fear the costs associated with in vitro fertilisation (IVF); however, there are a number of treatment options other than IVF that can improve the chance of conceiving. The treatment that will be recommended depends on factors like the cause of your fertility issues, your age, and your preferences. Options include fertility drugs to stimulate ovulation; surgery to fix a uterine condition, such as endometriosis, fibroids, or blocked fallopian tubes; intrauterine insemination, where sperm is placed directly into your uterus during ovulation; IVF, where sperm and egg are placed together in a lab until they form an embryo which is then implanted into your uterus; and intrafallopian transfer, where the sperm and egg or a fertilised egg is placed into the fallopian tube.5 “Women and men should continue with their journey towards parenthood – it is absolutely possible despite COVID-19. Time and age are of the essence when it comes to more positive fertility treatment outcomes, so we always encourage people not to delay. The important thing is to have the necessary conversation with your partner and your doctor – and to empower yourself with knowledge about your situation and the options that are available to you,” says Dr Heylen. Visit a fertility clinic near you to speak to a doctor about the options available to you and your partner. For more information, visit www.merckfertilityjourney.co.za #WorldInfertilityMonth #DontDelay #EmpowerYourself #Merck #Havetheconversation

June 3, 2022

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