Advice Column - Parenting Hub

Advice from the experts

Essential check-ups for women

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), known as lifestyle diseases, pose some of the biggest threats to the health of South Africans. They are a result of the way we live, combined with genetic, physiological, environmental and behavioural factors. The most common are hypertension (or high blood pressure), diabetes and obesity. It is imperative to have regular or annual check-ups. Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund, offers advice about these tests and others specifically for women. Weight and BMI Almost 70% of women in South Africa are overweight or obese. The Body Mass Indicator (BMI) is used to check if you are a healthy weight. To calculate your BMI: Divide your weight in kilograms (kg) by your height in metres (m) Then divide the answer by your height again Good to know Underweight <than 18.5 Normal weight 18.5 to 24.9 Overweight 25 to 29.9 Obese 30> Diabetes With over 4.6 million people in South Africa living with diabetes, it’s important to check your blood glucose. There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. They are different conditions but are both serious and need to be treated and managed properly. One of the biggest problems with diabetes is when it remains undiagnosed. This can lead to blindness, heart attackstroke, kidney failure, impotence and amputation so it’s vital to be checked. Blood pressure Hypertension (high blood pressure) is when blood pressure stays elevated over time. It is often referred to as the ‘silent killer’ since nearly 33% of people who have it, don’t know it. If your blood pressure is too high, it puts extra strain on your arteries (and your heart) and if it’s not treated, hypertension can cause kidney failure, eye problems and heart disease. Good to know Range Normal 120/80 to 129/84 Upper end of Normal 130/85 to 139/89 Mild hypertension 140/90 to 159/99 Moderate hypertension 160/100 to 179/109 Severe hypertension More than 180/110 Besides testing for these three main NCDs, Dr Mkhatshwa also advocates specific checks for women. A Mammogram From the age of 18 you should do regular self-examination of your breasts, if you see or feel any changes, consult your doctor immediately. Early detection increases the chance of survival and can save your life. Some doctors recommend having a mammogram, every two years from the age of 40, others believe you only need to start at 50 years of age. A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray which radiologists analyse to look for changes in breast tissue. Although the greatest risk for breast cancer is age, women can get breast cancer from a very early age. Cervical cancer South Africa has a high rate of cervical cancer, this has been attributed to the fact that not enough women are screened regularly. Screening can detect early changes in the cervix which can be treated and save your life. Screening includes: Pap test (pap smear) which looks for cell changes (pre-cancers) in the cervix that may progress to cancer if not treated. The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test. Looks for the virus that causes most cervical cancers It is recommended that between the ages of 21and 65, women should have a pap smear every two years and, from the age of 30 onwards, a pap smear and HPV test can be done every 5 years A vaccine has been developed to protect women from getting HPV. It is administered free of charge, annually, to girls between Grade 4 and 7 (9 to 12 years of age) in all government schools. The HPV vaccination can be a cost-effective strategy in lowering the cervical cancer risk among women in South Africa. Bone Density As you age, your bones become thinner and weaker. Over time this can lead to a condition called osteoporosis. If you’re aged 65 or older a bone density test is recommended. Called a DEXA scan, the frequency of this screening varies depending on your bone density and other risk factors. Your doctor may suggest you have this test earlier if you: Broke a bone in the past Have taken steroids for a long time Have rheumatoid arthritis Are underweight Have a parent who has broken a hip after a minor injury Treatment for osteoporosis is available – usually the first choice is Bisphosphonates. Colorectal Cancer Screening These tests look for cancer in the colon or rectum by checking for tissue growths, called polyps. If you don’t have an elevated risk for cancer, then you should start having these tests when you turn 45. A colonoscopy, where the doctor looks at your entire colon, should be done every 3-10 years depending on what is found during your exam. A Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) should happen annually. The FIT is also a screening test for colon cancer which tests for hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of cancer. Skin Checks Skin cancer is caused by the abnormal growth of skin cells – usually on the skin that has been exposed to the sun but not always. There are three major types of skin cancer: Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Examine your skin carefully at least once a month and, if you are prone to getting lots of moles, go to a dermatologist and have the mole ‘mapped.’ If skin cancers are found early and treated, they are almost always curable. If you have a history of skin cancer in your family have your skin checked regularly by a doctor. Remember early detection of any of these conditions can save your life, so remember to go for regular check-ups with your doctor.

August 19, 2022

Tips on Time Management for Online Homeschooling

I have been teaching in an online space for almost two years. Before I took the giant leap to teach little ones from home, I taught in a brick-and-mortar classroom for five years. However, the online space differs tremendously from most aspects of a traditional schooling system, like having large classrooms, precisely timed tasks, and academic interruptions – to name a few. The one skill that remains mandatory in any academic space is the importance of time management. I work solely in the Foundation Phase and often tell my parents, “We are partners in this journey!”. I cannot give adequate feedback if the expected submissions based on our system’s goals and standards are not timeously managed. Over these past two years, my most valued input thus far has been giving parents and students advice on how best to manage their time on an online homeschooling platform. A few tried and tested tips and tricks add real value to students during their school day. Whether you are new to our homeschooling community or part of the furniture, I hope these time management tips can help you and your child avoid unnecessary additional stress. At Evolve Online School, we strive to create independent learners who can take control of their academics. So, let us dive into a list of my four top time management tips: Tip #1: Set an Alarm for 5 or 10 minutes before an online class starts Our little ones are still learning to navigate the online platform, and we do not want to add the construct of time into the mix! Setting the alarm solves this issue immediately. The five or ten minutes before; will allow the student to get comfortable in their favourite workspace, take any toilet breaks, or gulp down some water to be hydrated and fully ready to concentrate for the entirety of their lesson. Tip #2: Create a visual calendar board in their workspace. This isn’t only a great way to incidentally learn days of the week and months of the year but also allows the student (and parent, for that matter) an opportunity to know; “What’s next?”. When a student has an assignment, count 2-3 days on their calendar and pop this assignment in! Remember, as a homeschooling parent, you ultimately know what is best. If you know the student will benefit from completing their work on the same day, mark it on their calendar! However, if they may need additional time to re-visit the subject matter, the flexibility of the online space allows for just that. Keep in mind not to procrastinate with no academic reasoning behind the decision. Tip #3: A daily ‘to-do’ list. In the Foundation Phase, organised folders are available with academic work set for the day. These folders are usually made available to students before their academic day begins. My tip is to set up a whiteboard, separated into their different subjects, with check-listed work for the day. Again, knowing your child’s daily academic capability is; gives them a goal to reach. For example, ‘For every two activities you complete, you may get a 10-minute break’. This allows for essential brain breaks throughout their day and gives them a goal to reach daily! Tip #4: Keep your Adventure Boxes safe and sound! Looking at the way the Evolve Online homeschooling curriculum has been set out, the Synchronous time is not as flexible as the asynchronous time. Even though the recordings can be watched afterwards, the fact remains that the student needs to be prepared for their online learning classes. Evolve Online has revolutionised the ‘online’ space by acknowledging the importance of tangible learning in the Foundation Phase. Our fun-filled adventure boxes are a perfect example of how learning through play is visible as the golden standard in Early Development education. Items from these boxes may be called upon during their lessons. In the past, I have found that students running around searching high and low for their items is a massive distraction during class and often ends with the pupil unable to find their resources and unable to engage in the lesson with their peers. My advice would be to re-purpose your boxes and organise them into categories. Examples of categories can be Literacy, Numeracy, Arts and Crafts, Stationary etc. This way, when their literacy lesson alarm goes off, they know to grab their Literacy related content from the adventure box and get ready! Remember, when you’re done having fun, pack it up! Here at Evolve Online, we strive to encourage independence. This may take a few failed attempts of a forgotten alarm here or a misplaced adventure box item there, but that’s okay, as long as the time management goal is consistent. When the parent alone is the only time manager, all the child learns is, ‘you do it better than I do, so I’ll let you do it!’ Instead, attempt to put the necessary time management skills into place and watch how the learner will slowly but surely become a manager of their own time! Jamie Lawrence • Jun 22, 2022

August 19, 2022

Matrics – it’s not too late to apply to study overseas

Overseas university application deadlines are less than four months away. Matrics wanting to study overseas, often only start thinking about their applications towards the end of their final school year. With universities like Harvard setting record-low acceptance rates in 2022, Grade 12’s have no time to delay on getting started with their applications. “When it comes to applying to study abroad, especially to competitive universities, you should ideally give your application at least an 18-month lead time. Matrics who are only getting started now can still apply but they haven’t left much room for error,” says Rebecca Pretorius, Country Manager at Crimson Education, who specialise in assisting local students with the process of applying to the world’s top-ranked universities. In addition to a tight timeline, local students need to consider the competitiveness of international universities and applicants. Around the world, application numbers are on the rise, while admissions rates are dropping every year. At Harvard, a record number of applicants applied for spots in the class of 2026, while the acceptance rate fell to 3.19% – the lowest since it was founded in 1636. To unpack international admissions for local matric students, Crimson Education hosted a free online event earlier this month – with the aim of helping matrics on their application journey. As part of the event, they covered application deadlines, strategies for essay writing, preparing for standardised tests, and university and course selection. The event also outlined some of the most common mistakes made by local students when it comes to applying abroad. “Students generally apply to too few schools, or to the wrong schools for their profile. Many top, competitive schools are missed, because students and families don’t have the insight that domestic students do into the university landscape, the choices available to them, or even the how they stack up against other applicants in the areas that count – including extracurriculars, subject choice, standardised test scores and more,” says Pretorius. Getting help with the basics is the best place to start when it comes to getting started this late in the year; “The application process to overseas universities is complex and time-consuming. While you can ask a friend, parent or teacher to check your personal statement, for example, they likely won’t know how to evaluate your work to the standard of admissions officers at these top institutions. This is even more true for more nuanced parts of the admission process, such as declaring a major or applying for financial aid,” says Pretorius. “To give yourself the best chance of getting into your dream university, make sure you give yourself enough time and get the right support. Realistically, you only get one shot, so do it right the first time around,” says Pretorius. Through a team mentorship model, Crimson connects learners with admission strategists and tutors to assist with the application process for top-ranked universities in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Europe, and Australia and New Zealand. The global company offers a range of application year programmes, designed to address specific aspects within the process of applying abroad. Crimson also offers regular information evenings and weekly SAT workshops around the country. For more information, visit www.crimsoneducation.org/za.

August 18, 2022

Let’s Flip With UNO FLIP!™

Buckle up and brace yourself for the next iteration of classic UNO™: UNO FLIP!™. It’s the matching game we all know and love, plus some exciting new twists – like a double-sided deck, special FLIP card and tougher penalties – that give classic gameplay a real competitive edge. Each deck has a ‘Light Side” and a ‘Dark Side’. The ‘Light Side” plays like classic UNO™, and the ‘Dark Side’ is where the penalties are super tough. Play the FLIP card and all cards in your hand, the draw pile and draw deck are flipped over to reveal an entirely new set of numbers and colours on the opposite side! The holder of the FLIP card determines whether or not you play on the Light Side or Dark Side of the deck — and when you switch it back around. The Dark Side of the deck includes new action cards that really shake things up, like Draw Five and Skip Everyone cards Strategize to rattle your competition and be the first to get rid of your cards to win. When you’re down to one card, don’t forget to shout ‘UNO!’ This fun family card game is perfect for 7 year olds and up. Product features UNO FLIP!™ is the classic card game you know, now with an exciting new twist! A double-sided deck and special FLIP card give classic gameplay a competitive edge. Play the special FLIP card and all cards are turned over, including the draw pile, to reveal an entirely new set of numbers and colors on the opposite side. UNO FLIP!™ also includes fun new action cards, like Draw Five and Skip Everyone. This fun family card game is perfect for adults, teens and kids 7 years old and up. Available at all participating retailers and toy stores with a RRP of R139.99

August 18, 2022

Engineering 101 : How to choose a degree programme for 2023

Engineering has long been a popular field of study for school leavers because of the high demand for qualified and experienced professionals in this field, the diversity of options within the field, and the interesting and varied nature of life as an engineer. However, contrary to the road to career success for prospective engineers of the past, study options have increased dramatically from the historically limited public university offering, and those who are interested in this field should ensure they consider all their options so as to align their chosen branch of engineering with their personal goals, as well as their ability to make an immediate and positive contribution in the workplace, beyond mere academic and theoretical knowledge, an education expert says. “The specifics of admission requirements for various institutions vary, but it’s safe to say that if you are great at maths, physics and chemistry and have a good command of English or the language of instruction of the institution, engineering is an excellent and sustainable choice of study,” says Neil Manson, Head of School: Engineering, Science and Health at The Independent Institute of Education, SA’s largest and most accredited private higher education provider. Manson notes that perceptions of a career in engineering can be quite limited, but that it is worth noting that the day-to-day life of an engineer – whether in public or private sector – incorporates many different facets depending on specialisation, which can include: Designing materials, components, systems or processes, Planning the capacity and location of infrastructure, Investigating, advising and reporting on engineering problems, Improvement of materials, components, systems or processes, Managing or operating plants and processes, Managing implementation or construction projects, Implementing designs or solutions, Research, development and commercialisation of products, Education, training and development of engineering personnel, Postgraduate studies, research and teaching. “Furthermore, students who graduate with an Engineering degree have valuable and sought-after knowledge, skills and attributes that enable them to work and excel in multi-disciplinary projects and easily expand into other industries, such as banking, insurance, ICT and many others,” Manson says. Manson says the non-negotiable boxes that need to be checked when investigating which engineering degree to pursue and where, is to ensure that accreditation with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) is in place and that the institution is accredited with the Council for Higher Education (CHE). “It is also then important, after those matters have been dealt with, to find an institution that has a close link with industry and that the curriculum is contemporary and updated. While engineers are in high demand, companies are also careful to scrutinise the quality of qualifications, an institution’s reputation for producing work-ready graduates, and the likely ability of a graduate to consistently perform at the highest level. “Engineering is a complex field and engineers carry a lot of responsibility – sometimes life and death responsibilities – on their shoulders. So it is important not only for satisfying employer demands, but also for developing and empowering yourself to be able to fulfil your duties with confidence, that you find an institution and qualification where the classes are small and you can receive individual attention that goes beyond just covering the theory. “Ask prospective higher education institutions for a tour of their campus facilities, and look out for up-to-date facilities and laboratories, inspiring campus grounds, and modern programme design.” Prospective students should also enquire about a faculty’s focus on sustainability, its level of industry engagement, its focus on real-life communities in its curriculum, its focus on entrepreneurial development and the extent to which it provides its students with collaborative research opportunities and industry interaction. “Engineering is a tremendously rewarding career and opportunities will continue to grow locally and globally even during tough economic times. Matriculants with the academic ability to be successful, and a keen interest in the field, would do well to investigate their opportunities and find the perfect fit within the field for them, as well as the right institution to develop them holistically and help them get ready to contribute upon graduation.”

August 17, 2022

Everyone snacks, but not everyone thinks before they snack!

Our on-the-go lifestyle has made snacking a way of life for adults and kids. When it comes to snacking, you want to satisfy your child’s hunger and taste buds, but still help them make smart choices, shifting the focus to mindful snacking. Mindful snacking means being conscious of meeting nutritional needs; adding functional benefits like increasing energy, controlling appetite and getting the nourishing goodness from fibre, protein, vitamins, minerals and probiotics; but still providing guilt-free pleasure and indulgence. Dairy is a very accessible and affordable snacking option to include. There are a variety of dairy products available that make ideal snacks, like yoghurt, cheese and flavoured milk. Here are five reasons to choose dairy as a snack: Dairy products are convenient, tasty and versatile snacks that are ideal for any time of day, especially when you are rushed. Dairy products are a source of key nutrients. You need nutrients every day to keep your body healthy. Children love the taste of dairy. Include it in their lunchbox. Dairy products contain lots of nutrients in a single product, which is money well spent. Milk and flavoured milk are ideal thirst quenchers after school sport. Maretha Vermaak, registered dietitian at Rediscover Dairy says: “Choose maas, milk, flavoured milk or drinking yoghurt as a beverage; add cheese to any sandwich or serve crackers and cheese as an afternoon snack; eat yoghurt in between meals and freeze the yoghurt in summer for a yoghurt lolly; and don’t forget to add fresh fruit to your yoghurt snack.” Planning for your weekly snack allocation will ensure that there is always a healthy snack available and will save you from those ‘I’m so hungry’ stops at stores and unplanned snack spending. Follow Rediscover Dairy on Instagram and Facebook for more dairy ideas, tips and recipes.

August 17, 2022

Goodness-packed lunchbox fillers

A nutritious and delicious lunchbox is essential to see your little one through the day. These quick and easy prep-ahead snacks are packed with Squish goodness and will take the hassle out of filling your child’s lunchbox every morning. Add a Squish 100% Pressed Juice box to their lunch bag to help keep your toddler hydrated as they go about their busy day. SQUISH BAKED BREAKFAST BARSSQUISH BAKED BREAKFAST BARS These breakfast bars store really well in a sealed container, which means if you bake a batch on the weekend, they should see you through the week. We’ve used Summer Berries in this recipe, but it works just as well with any of the many Squish flavours. Try Pear + Prune; Pear, Butternut, Yoghurt + Mango with Cinnamon; Apple + Guava; or Fruit Salad. Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees are made used quality ingredients and are free from preservatives, flavourants and colourants. Ingredients 1 x 110 ml Squish 100% Summer Berries Puree 750 ml (3 C) quick oats 125 ml (½ C) sugar 2.5 ml (½ tsp) salt 5 ml (1 tsp) baking powder 5 ml (1 tsp) ground cinnamon 125 ml (½ C) butter, melted 2 eggs Method Place the dry ingredients into a large bowl. Mix together the puree, butter and eggs. Add the puree mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until well blended. Line a baking tray with baking paper and spoon in mixture. Flatten with the back of a spoon. Bake in an oven that has been preheated to 180°C for 25 minutes or until firm to the touch. Leave to cool slightly then cut into fingers. TIP: These breakfast bars are also delicious crumbled over some natural yoghurt and topped with Squish 100% Fruit Puree. SQUISH FRUIT AND SPICE LOAF This moist tea cake stores well in the fridge so you can simply slice off as you need. The loaf is packed with grated carrot too, which is high in fibre, Vitamin A and beta-carotene. Ingredients 1 x 110 ml Squish 100% Pear, Butternut, Yoghurt + Mango with Cinnamon Puree 125 ml (½ C) Squish 100% Apple Juice 440 ml (1¾ C) cake flour 250 ml (1 C) sugar 5 ml (1 tsp) cinnamon 2.5 ml (½ tsp) baking powder 5 ml (1 tsp) bicarbonate of soda 125 ml (½ C) grated carrot 2 eggs 125 ml (½ C) sunflower oil Method Sift the flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder and bicarbonate of soda into a large bowl. Add the grated carrot. Mix together the eggs, oil, juice and puree. Add to the dry ingredients and beat well to mix. Pour the batter into a loaf pan that has been sprayed with non-stick spray. Bake in an oven preheated to 180°C for 35 minutes or until the loaf is well risen and a wooden skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean. Turn out and leave to cool. TIP: Use a frozen Squish 100% Pressed Fruit Juice box as a lunchbox cooler. Your child can then enjoy it later in the day once it has melted. CHEESY VEG BALLS These tasty little balls are so moreish, and they’re packed full of healthy veg! They’re a great way to use up half-empty Squish 100% Veg Purees you might have in your fridge – just make the quantity up to 110ml. All Squish Puree pouches come with a resealable screw-on lid, helping you cut back on food waste. Just use what you need, then pop in the fridge for later. Ingredients 1 cup cheese 1 x 110ml Squish 100% Mixed Veg Puree (or any flavour you please) 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 Tbsp olive oil/coconut oil 1 tsp 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. For a dipping sauce, simply mix some full-cream plain yoghurt with Squish 100% Veg Puree. TIP: These can also be cooked in an air-fryer – 10 minutes tops. • Looking for more toddler-friendly lunchbox inspiration? Click here.

August 17, 2022

How Does Juvenile Arthritis Affect Children?

Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, highlights Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). What Is Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis? Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is also known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. It is the most frequent form of arthritis in children. “The condition can result in lifelong joint damage. It makes daily living difficult for children,” says Murray Hewlett, Affinity Health CEO. “Some children with arthritis experience lifelong remission. The illness may no longer be active despite the absence of a cure. But others suffer from persistent pain, stiffness and joint swelling. Recurring symptoms may last days, weeks or longer.” What Are The Symptoms And Indicators Of Juvenile Arthritis? Symptoms may fluctuate over time. There may be periods when symptoms worsen, referred to as flares, and times when they improve, referred to as remission. Among the symptoms are:2 Pain Joint discomfort Swelling Lymph node enlargement Fever Rash Tiredness Loss of appetite Irritation of the eyes What Causes Arthritis In Children? Arthritis can affect children of various ages, races, and ethnicities. Experts are still undecided on the exact cause of juvenile arthritis. Individual cases of juvenile arthritis are likely caused by genetic factors, environmental exposures, and the child’s immune system. How Is Arthritis In Children Diagnosed? A physical examination diagnoses arthritis in children, combined with X-rays and laboratory testing. If you suspect your child has arthritis, your family health care practitioner may refer you to a rheumatologist who specialises in childhood arthritis and associated diseases. A physical therapist to preserve your child’s joint flexibility, range of motion, and muscle tone. “It’s important to note that there is currently no cure for juvenile arthritis, but with early diagnosis and aggressive treatment, remission is possible,” adds Hewlett. “The focus of treatment is on reducing pain and inflammation, enhancing function, and preventing further harm.” The Different Types Of Arthritis In Children Juvenile arthritis can affect a single or several joints. There are various subtypes of juvenile arthritis, although systemic, oligoarticular, and polyarticular are the most common.3 Symptoms determine the type of arthritis your child has, the number of joints affected, and if fever and rashes are present. Complications Juvenile arthritis is associated with several severe consequences. However, keeping a close eye on your child’s condition and obtaining proper medical treatment can significantly lessen the likelihood of these complications: Eye issues: Some types can induce irritation of the eye. This illness can lead to cataracts, glaucoma, and possibly blindness if left untreated. Eye inflammation commonly occurs without symptoms; hence children with this disorder must get regular ophthalmologic examinations. Growth issues: The onset of juvenile arthritis might hinder your child’s growth and skeletal development. Some therapeutic medicines, primarily corticosteroids, can potentially decrease development. Lifestyle And Natural Treatments Parents and caregivers can assist children in learning self-care strategies that reduce the severity of juvenile arthritis. Techniques include: Regularly engaging in exercise: Physical activity is essential because it increases muscular strength and joint mobility. Swimming is a fantastic option since it causes minimum joint stress. Hot or Cold Applications: Many youngsters with juvenile arthritis have morning stiffness. Some youngsters respond to cold packs, especially after physical exercise. But, most youngsters prefer warmth, especially in the morning, such as a hot pack, bath, or shower. Healthy Eating: Some children with arthritis have low appetites. Others may get weight because of drugs or inactivity. A nutritious diet can aid in maintaining a healthy weight. So, adequate calcium intake is essential. Children with juvenile arthritis are at risk for developing the following conditions: Brittle bones due to the use of corticosteroids. Limited physical activity. Excessive weight-bearing.

August 16, 2022

A new mom deserves all the help she can get!

The line on a pregnancy test; the line on a COVID antibody test; the line on an ovulation test etc. All these lines on tests indicate a positive or a negative result. In the same way, the wetness indicator is a line that indicates when your #babynappies are wet. A wetness indicator is a pH indicator which changes colour depending on the acidity or alkalinity in the urine that is in the nappy. These lines appear yellow when the nappy is dry, but the slightly alkaline pH of urine causes its colour to change from yellow to blue. This is a useful feature which can save you time, money and spare you unnecessary stress. Hi Baby Premium Nappies and Pull Ups have a super absorbent core keeping baby’s skin dry and safe from exposure to excess moisture. This is wonderful, but the nappies are so absorbent that you can’t always tell whether or not baby has passed urine. The wetness indicator will change colour providing the caregiver with peace of mind that baby has passed urine; or prompting them to be alert to the fact that there has been some action in that nappy. Are you changing the nappy because it needs to be changed or are you changing it out of habit? The wetness indicator on Hi Baby’s premium nappies and pull ups will save you time, money, and unnecessary nappy changes. Until Next Time, Sr Jessica Bredenkamp (Registered Midwife (BCur) & Mom)

August 16, 2022

Could this just be the world’s first infinitely interchangeable kid’s sneaker?

There’s a new buzz around the playgrounds of Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durbs (Bloem too!) as JoyJoy Kids’ Sneakers make their way to hundreds of South Africa’s little feet. ‘The world’s first insanely cool sneaker’ qualifies as an interchangeable kaleidoscope of fashion-fun as kids ages 3-12 get to snap on, snap off and swap out their choices of shoe design. Ready to impress, JoyJoy hits the online space this Winter with an addictive collection of shoe reverie that will affect (and improve) the carpool, the playground, the classroom, Saturday parties, extra lessons and extra – everything. Started by Mompreneurs, Jade Kirkel and Daniella Silbermann – on a lounge floor somewhere between a playdate and a bottle feed. This fresh, interchangeable sneaker allows kids the freedom to experiment with their unique sense of style: to change their look and their mood, in a snap – and to ultimately help build their self-confidence on and off the playground. “We intended to think of everything along this journey, ” says Dani Silbermann, Co-founder of JoyJoy, “the comfort factors, the confidence factors, the convenience factors and the fashion factors – but mostly, the JOY factors of wearing shoes at a young age.” “Beyond that – we also wanted to build a fashion brand that would make our little ones feel in charge of their feelings and their style choices,” adds Jade Kirkel, Co-founder of JoyJoy. “Imagine a pair of sneakers that gets kids excited about wearing shoes, and, at the same time, makes mom or dad feel like they’ve won the war in the ‘dress-myself department’; that’s what JoyJoy does,” says Kirkel. But that’s not the only problem this sneaker solves: it saves on money (and tantrums too). For parents, a trip to the shoe-shelf is no fun feet, with kids’ needing to replace their shoes more often, due to wear and tear or fashion trends. JoyJoy relieves this with the convenience of just one quality pair of white sneakers and 100’s of ways to wear it. The fun won’t ever end in this theme park of shoe exhilaration and gone will be the days of tying laces. Designed to meet young girls and boys where they’re at, all JoyJoy Snap Packs are themed to suit a day in the life of a little grown up: from The Sweet Life to Snap Dragon to Play it Cool to Princess Squad, Goal-Getters and, even, The Chill Out Snap Pack – kids can’t go wrong with changing their minds, hearts or vibes in a moment. Better yet, besties will have a roaring time swapping out their snaps for their best days ever. And when the day goes wrong? And the shoe doesn’t fit (by foot size nor fashion sense), guess what – they don’t have to wear it! Knowing the inevitable frustration that comes with fussy pirates and mermaids, Jade and Dani offer a problem-free Joylosophy with their J.S.I.B promise – JUST SEND IT BACK. No laces attached. Too big? Too small? The glitter’s come off? The shark looks funny? Want a last- minute crown and not a dragon? No fashion faux pas is too little nor too big for these Moms on a mission to serve joy. Parents can easily reach out to the JoyJoy team for a return or refund. Undoubtedly, Jade and Dani have made it their sole mission to impress little big humans and to remove the grudge from shoe-wearing. Even the parents at home might have shoe envy (sorry folks, no adult sizes yet!). Where to start? The JoyJoy Starter Box is Mom and Dad’s first port of call along the JoyJoy journey, picked and packed and delivered straight to your door. The Starter box includes a pair of signature white JoyJoy sneakers (which can be worn on their own) and a Snap Pack of mix and match snaps of your choice. The starter box retails for R799 including free delivery (yay more added joy!). Once you have your signature base JoyJoy sneaker, you have now opened up a world of infinitely interchangeable snaps. Snap Packs are a mixer-matcher dream and are released regularly in collections of three Velcro snaps per pack. Here’s a SNEAKer Peek: The Ice Cream Starter Box: Pair of White JoyJoy Sneakers Ice Cream Patch Snap Purple Glitter Snap Gold Glitter Snap Butterfly Starter Box: Pair of White JoyJoy Sneakers Butterfly Patch Snap Purple Glitter Snap Navy Glitter Snap Shark Starter Box: Pair of White JoyJoy Sneakers Shark Snap Patch Red Snap Grey Snap JoyJoy is your child’s answer to confident dress-sense and self-awareness; giving them the freedom to stand up and stand out; the power to express their feelings through fashion and to choose and change their vibe, style and mood – as many (many) times as they like. Go on, add to cart Mom. Shop JoyJoy online at www.joyjoy.co.za

August 15, 2022

She-Hulk: Attorney at Law

A new comedy series starring Tatiana Maslany as She-Hulk/Jennifer Walters, a lawyer who specializes in superhuman-oriented legal cases. Directed by Kat Coiro (Episodes 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9) and Anu Valia (Episodes 5, 6, 7) with Jessica Gao as head writer, “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law” follows Jennifer Walters as she navigates the complicated life of a single, 30-something attorney who also happens to be a green 6-foot-7-inch superpowered hulk. The nine-episode series welcomes a host of MCU vets, including Mark Ruffalo as Smart Hulk, Tim Roth as Emil Blonsky/the Abomination, and Benedict Wong as Wong.

August 15, 2022

The importance of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is best for babies. Breastmilk is made especially for your baby by you, so it has everything your little one needs for their first months of life. At Junior Colleges, we recommend that you breastfeed your baby for as long as possible, and we will assist you as much as possible through this period of your life while your child is at our school. There are advantages and disadvantages to breastfeeding that we have listed to assist you with your decision. Advantages for the Newborn Baby Breast milk is a complete food for the baby. It is well-balanced and provides water and nutrients. It is easy to digest. During feeds, there is a bonding between mother and child. The milk changes according to the specific need of the baby. High protein content encourages brain development. Protects against infection as antibodies are passed from mother to child. Less nappy rash, colic, gastric disturbances, and constipation. Lower risk of cot death. Advantages for the Mother Mother will regain her figure quicker. Lower risk of breast cancer. Easy to travel with the baby. Always fresh. Always in sterile containers. Always at the right temperature. Breast milk is free of charge. Disadvantages Daddy cannot be as involved as with bottle feeding. Mommy may have limited movement and activities. Poor techniques may cause nipple problems and painful feeding. Any mother’s medication, drugs, or alcohol use may affect the baby she is feeding. Breastmilk digests quicker than formula, and the baby may need more frequent feeding. Breastfeeding and the Working Mother Usually, the working mother will feed early in the morning when the baby wakes up; during the working day, she should express milk into sterilised containers and keep it in the fridge. She should feed as often as possible in the afternoon and evening to keep up the milk supply. Remember, the more you feed, the more milk your body will produce. The baby may also demand more feeds during the night, which can be quite difficult if the mother gets up early the next morning to go to work. Breastfeeding is Still Best Breast milk is the best choice for the newborn baby. It is the perfect first food, and the mother should try her best to breastfeed her baby if possible. Babies only need breast milk during the first few months of their lives.

August 15, 2022

LEGENDS OF SPARK

Tick-Tock Racetrack, up for the challenge? The engines on Tick-Tock Racetrack are revving loud and proud, and our hero Spark is bustling busy in August. Watch all the new episodes that will take you around tight new turns of fun! You will be able to join in the celebrations for Spark’s birthday and find out where Flash disappears to when he goes missing. There’s also panic when the repair shop receives a mysterious package that appears to be a ticking time bomb. When the town becomes covered in fog, it’s up to Spark to complete the Tick-Tock Racetrack challenge to disperse it. But that’s just the starting line in the line-up, so tune in and start your engine! PREMIERE: Monday, 15 August 2022 TUNE IN: Monday to Friday @ 17:00 CAT Also available on DStv Catch Up

August 12, 2022

Virtual Social Anxiety: Support for Online Learning

We can all relate to feeling nervous or anxious, child or adult. Social settings, whether in the virtual space or a physical “meet-up”, seem to be a significant cause of this! In today’s uncertainty, children are the ones that are experiencing social anxiety at its core. Moving back and forth between the virtual and physical space has undoubtedly influenced our children’s socialising ability. Children have shifted from everyday social experiences such as meeting at school to a virtual experience where social connections are harder to make and may require intervention from a parent or teacher who can feel uncomfortable. Feeling disconnected or isolated can happen in both a physical and online environment as revolutionary as online learning or online home-schooling, those involved need to be aware of the importance of social connections. Being in the comfort of our home allows learning to happen in a truly comfortable environment. Due to this, children can experience higher levels of virtual social anxiety when needing to connect with their peers outside of the learning environment. As a parent, it is essential to combat these developments or move and work towards remedying them once they have been identified. The following behaviours can be signs of social anxiety and should be monitored: They lack the desire to connect and communicate outside their immediate family circle. Showing significant discomfort when communicating with others on a personal level, beyond learning and teaching content. Showing an increasing lack of desire to interact with children of their age in a “real-life” setting. Hiding away. Not wanting to talk or play. However, providing opportunities and creating expectations can be a healthy way to overcome or combat the development of social anxiety. Some coping strategies for online learning and creating a space that fosters social interaction may be: Getting out of their “comfort space” to go for walks. Going to a library where there are opportunities to talk to and see other people. Participating in non-academic activities and even something as simple as getting involved in community projects. More particularly, creating opportunities for them to connect with children with the same or similar interests is an effective way not to force social interaction but rather encourage it, as this will be the best footing when overcoming the discomfort of social anxiety. Written by Cherie Pieterse – Evolve Online School Activator

August 12, 2022

How to maintain a healthy skincare regime on a budget

As the cost of living rises, it’s becoming increasingly important to find affordable skincare products that don’t skimp on efficacy. The majority of South Africans are feeling the pinch right now. With fuel prices at an all-time high, food prices increasing by the day and the cost of electricity continuously going up (despite constant loadshedding!), there’s a little too much month at the end of everyone’s money. For a lot of people, this means cutting back on expenses and finding more affordable alternatives for pricey items. For some, it has meant adjusting their beauty routines: from purchasing fewer products to switching over to more affordable brands, women are finding ways to maintain a beauty regime without a hefty price tag. There’s a common belief that if a product is expensive, it has to be good. But what science shows us, is that this is not necessarily true. While some ingredients are innately expensive to produce and ramp up a product’s price tag, it’s not the only factor determining pricing. Marketing budgets, advertising campaigns, packaging and celebrity endorsements all add up, often putting a high cost behind products that would otherwise be more affordable. When we consider how “good” a beauty product is, we should be looking at its ingredients and efficacy in isolation, without taking the other factors into consideration. After all, that’s what it’s really about, right? The same goes for more affordable products: a reasonable price tag does not necessarily mean inferior quality. There are some incredibly effective, top quality ingredients out there that are not expensive, and allow brands to produce affordable skincare products that deliver on their promises. But how can you know which is which? In a beauty industry that’s flooded with product options, we recommend always looking to ingredients first. Do your research and find out which ingredients offer the results you’re after, and then determine which products offer the most bang for your buck. One of the best affordable skincare ingredients on the market is Bramley’s Bio-Pharm Oil, used in their much-loved tissue oils. Bramley’s very own unique ceramide blend, Bio-Pharm Oil, enhances the functionality of the skin’s moisture barrier, keeping moisture locked in. The use of Bio-Pharm Oil gives the tissue oils a modern scientific treatment to maintain the healthy appearance of the skin. The ceramides influence the water-holding capacity of the skin and provide structural integrity. Bramley tissue oils are suitable for all skin types and provide best results when applied daily over a period of time. Bramley’s tissue oils also contain another very affordable and highly effective ingredient – vitamin E. Known for its healing and antioxidant properties, vitamin E also helps skin cells repair, softens skin and protects cells from damage. Bramley’s tissue oils are the number one selling tissue oils is South Africa for a reason: Not only are they highly effective at nourishing, moisturizing and softening the skin, but they are affordable, multipurpose and versatile, meaning you only need to buy one product to cover a variety of needs. In a time when we could all do with a little bit of relief when it comes to spending, Bramley’s tissue oils are the answer to maintaining your beauty regime at an affordable price. Use it on your skin Apply a few drops onto a cotton pad and use it as a makeup remover. Apply to dry and cracked lips to soften and moisturise the skin. It can be applied to the skin to help fade dark marks. Use it on your body It can be used as a massage oil. It can be used to minimise the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Use for cracked heels (apply some onto feet and put socks on before bed). Apply it to your cuticles and nail beds to promote healthy nail growth and softer cuticles. Use it as a bath oil – simply pour a few drops into your bath water. Apply before and after shaving your legs to soothe irritation. Mix some tissue oil into your body lotion or butter and apply all over for silky soft skin. Mix some sugar crystals with tissue oil to make your own body scrub. Use it on your hair Use it as a deep treatment to moisturise and soften hair. Apply to your lash line and eyelashes before bed to help promote longer, healthy lashes. With so many uses, it’s easy to understand why Bramley tissue oils are the number one choice of South Africans.

August 12, 2022

Pool safety on housing estates and gated communities

Eliminating risk and ensuring compliance The estate lifestyle in South Africa has boomed in recent years, creating high demand for family properties on estates. While these communities are favoured for security and convenience, estate homeowners with pools have slightly different factors to consider when it comes to child safety and pool maintenance, according to PowerPlastics Pool Covers. The most important factor for estate pools is ensuring child safety and preventing drowning accidents. In fact this is a regulatory issue, governed by the SABS through its building Standards. Where there are no individual boundary walls or fences enclosing each property in an estate, the pool can be considered a drowning risk. According to the safety Standard (SANS 10134), pool safety must be provided on each property. The most effective way to address this is with the SABS-certified PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover that comes with a safety certificate. A homeowner can be asked to prove compliance at any time, including when selling the property. PowerPlastics Pool Covers was the original company to design what is now the best-selling solid safety cover in South Africa. Compared to other safety methods like fences or nets, this cover forms a complete barrier over the water, allowing for safety as well as reduced maintenance costs. Water saving and water management becomes important where estates are developed around natural ecosystems and residents have sustainability to consider too. One can’t simply let backwash pool water drain into the ecosystem as the chlorine poses a threat to the natural ecosystem. Either the chlorine must be greatly reduced or eliminated, or the waste water must be dealt with in via another responsible process. In summer, the average pool can lose up to 105 litres a day to evaporation. With a solid safety cover, evaporation is curtailed almost entirely, and chlorine demand can be reduced too, given that the water is kept clear of dirt and debris. Pump time can also be decreased, allowing for power savings. The cover ticks all the boxes on child safety as well as sustainability. Compared to the old covers and nets that used hooks and eyelets, the cover is simple to use. It can also be semi-automated for further convenience. The cover supports 220kg and uses a baton and ratchet system to create the tension with no fiddly hooks and eyes. A range of colours allow it to blend in with the home’s outdoor area. There is also an option to print custom content on the cover, such as graphics and photos for user-inspired flair. It is important to note that pools with elaborate designs and features can be tricky to cover with a solid safety cover. The decking or coping should not be restricted by rocks, fountains and flower beds. However, PowerPlastics Pool Covers has a Special Projects team that can design covers for these trickier pools. Order your pool cover today and don’t take chances. Anyone can drown, no one should! Learn more about the PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover https://powerplastics.co.za/powerplastics-solid-safety-cover/ Get valuable safety tips from TopStep, the home of pool safety – a PowerPlastics Pool Covers educational resource for drowning prevention and pool safety. www.topstep.co.za You can also download the TopStep Child Drowning Prevention Handbook. If you need a better understanding of the safety compliance regulations, contact PowerPlastics Pool Covers who will take you through it. www.powerplastics.co.za

August 11, 2022

TIME MANAGEMENT FOR KIDS: HOW TO HELP YOUR KIDS EXCEL

Time management for kids is a life skill that can set them up for success. It is particularly important for children to learn time management at an early age in order to be successful in their education, as well as other areas of life. Having time management skills as a child is important because it allows them to focus on priorities and accomplish tasks without feeling overwhelmed. But how does one establish good time management skills? We put together some steps to help you work with your child to develop these essential skills. 1. Help them become aware of their time It’s important to remember that time is limited. When considering all the tasks to complete, break them down into sections by prioritizing and planning. Talk with your child to help them know what is urgent and important to ensure that is where they begin. Explain the breakdown to your child to show them that time is being allotted for different topics such as school, extracurriculars, family events, etc. 2. Define priorities It helps to know what needs to or should get done. For school activities, make sure to have discussions with your child’s teachers or review the assessment information that comes home to know the main areas that need attention. Talk with your child to help them understand the importance of each task and then develop a routine that will ensure enough time is set aside for each activity. Discuss these priorities and let them know that their schedule can be made to give them time to focus on these tasks. 3. Create a schedule and develop a routine Once you have an idea of what to focus on, create a daily and weekly schedule together with your child. Make this process fun! You can do this by allowing them to work on a visual board with pictures or writing down the time slots on a calendar and colour-coding, adding stickers or decorating it with drawings. 4. Break down goals A schedule will help plan time, but what is done in that time depends on your child’s goals. Compile a checklist to encourage them to know their goals and work independently to accomplish them. For example, if your child needs to learn three new maths concepts, they may need to focus on assignments that help master them. In other words, they may need to read and practice examples in the textbook. It may even be chores that should get done after school. Plan out the goals to know what to focus on in the timeframe. This will help them feel less overwhelmed and help to track progress for each goal. 5. Track progress and reflect on time spent As your child continues to complete tasks, track their progress to see if there are any areas for improvement or accomplishments to celebrate. Together you can reflect on what happened within the time frame to see if they need to reassess their time in the future and understand how to plan accordingly. Also, your child can see how their time well spent led to an achievement, which will encourage them to continue setting aside time and planning for future goals. 6. Celebrate even the small wins One of the biggest motivators for kids when it comes to time management is celebrating small wins. Completing tasks and becoming closer to the main goal is a huge accomplishment! Be sure to celebrate the successes by praising your child and encouraging them to continue making strides while managing their time. Seeing that their hard work resulted in something positive will make them more inclined to continue these efforts in the future. The Takeaway Time management for kids may seem like a challenge, but it is beneficial to establish this life skill early with them. Focusing on these steps when completing schoolwork is a great place to begin, as other tasks will likely fall into place throughout the process. Being able to manage time as a kid will help them feel less overwhelmed and in turn make them feel more accomplished and confident in completing tasks throughout all areas of life. The Kumon Maths and English programmes not only help children to improve academically but also develop other life skills which including goal-setting. Should you be interested in learning more about Kumon and how it can support your child, visit www.kumon.co.za This article is taken directly from the KUMON NORTH AMERICA website: https://www.kumon.com/resources/how-to-help-your-kids-with-time-management-skills/

August 11, 2022

HOW TO ENROL FOR CAMBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL EXAMINATIONS

Benefits of a Cambridge Education A Cambridge education gives students the skills they need for life and helps them achieve in their schooling, university and work. Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) qualifications are accepted by South African and international universities, including Harvard, Cambridge and MIT, and are valued by employers across the world. An International Qualification Cambridge programmes and qualifications are followed by almost a million students aged 5 to 19 (and older) in 160 countries. Whilst the Cambridge curriculum is taught in over 10 000 schools worldwide, students who don’t attend a Cambridge school can enter for the CAIE exams as private candidates. There are many students in South Africa and in other countries who successfully acquire CAIE qualifications as private candidates. Academic Pathway In previous articles, I discussed the importance for students to plan their academic pathway to ensure that they keep their options open for matric and university exemption with Cambridge International qualifications and for possible future careers. For guidelines and information, please click here The Cambridge pathway comprises the stages Primary, Lower Secondary (Stage 7 to Stage 9), Upper Secondary (IGCSE) and Advanced (AS & A Level). We encourage our students to start following the Cambridge pathway from the lower secondary years to build their foundations, but it is not a requirement for students to complete a formal lower secondary course before starting an IGCSE course and to enter for the IGCSE examinations. It is also not a requirement for students to write the IGCSE examinations before starting their AS and A Level courses. However, we strongly encourage students to first complete their IGCSE courses and to write the IGCSE examinations. Not only does this prepare students in the Cambridge instructional and assessment approach, but universities require students to submit their certificates for admission to university during their last year of school. The latest results most students have obtained at this stage, are their IGCSE’s. By achieving high IGCSE results, students greatly increase their chance of successful admission into undergraduate courses, and particularly for admission into selective programmes. Enrolling as a private candidate If you don’t attend a Cambridge school, you should enter for the CAIE exams as a private candidate. There are many schools in South Africa and in other countries that accept and register private candidates for Cambridge exams. 1. Find a Cambridge school that accepts private candidates We suggest that you find a Cambridge school where you would like to enrol for the CAIE exams about six months prior to your intended exam sitting. South Africa falls in administrative Zone 3. There are two exam sittings a year, June (April to June) and November (September to November). To find more information and to search schools and their contact details, click here Contact the school and request that they include you in their mailing list for entries for the upcoming examination series. Enquire about their examination registration dates, fees and any other requirements. The school will then communicate any further information and arrangements regarding the upcoming examinations with you. 2. Register for the upcoming examinations Once their exam registrations open, you need to make arrangements with the school and liaise directly with them to ensure that they register you for your required examinations. Make sure you receive the entry form, subject price list and school policy for external candidates from the school. The school will also assist you with any exam-related queries, such as special arrangements. Contact the school should you have any further questions once you have gone through the documents. You will need to complete and return the entry form and make payment of the fees to the school. The completed entry form, ID document and proof of payment needs to be returned to the school. 3. Communication regarding upcoming examinations You should receive a Statement of Entry from the school, with your entry details and all relevant information regarding the examinations. It is your responsibility to arrive on time for each examination with the required documentation and proof of identity. 4. Communication regarding exam results The results for the June examinations are released in August and the results for the November examinations are released the following January. You should receive communication from the school regarding accessing your Provisional Results when these are due to be released. The communication should also include information regarding the process for collecting your official Statements of Results which generally arrive about three weeks after the release of the provisional results. You should also be advised of the process to collect your official Certificates, which generally arrive from Cambridge about two months later. 5. File your documents securely Once you have collected your official Statement of Results and Certificates, we advise that you scan and copy these, and file them securely. You will be required to submit your official documents in the process of applying for matriculation exemption, university or college admission and for job applications. We suggest that you keep the original documents in a secure place such as a wall safe. After all your hard work and study, you acquired a valuable international qualification, which will open doors to universities worldwide and which has got you future ready so that you can forge your own independent paths in the world. We wish you well as you venture into the next exciting stage of your life. ABOUT CAMBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) is part of the University of Cambridge and provides international education qualifications for children worldwide. FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR OF GLOBAL VILLAGE COLLEGE Tracey Howard is the founder and director of Global Village College. She has experience and expertise in education and organisation development and consultancy, which equips her to understand the human capital requirements of organisations and to facilitate solutions for today’s students who are eager to learn the skills they require to thrive in our rapidly changing and competitive global world. Tracey holds a MSc in Organisation Development and Consultancy from

August 11, 2022

MEET KOA ACADEMY

Online schools are not all the same. Technology in education is rapidly evolving, digital education is ever-expanding and new and improved models of online schooling are providing families with far more choice when it comes to their children’s education. In South Africa this year, online schools have experienced record-breaking enrolments. Koa Academy is the realisation of the vision of Mark Anderson that he calls ‘School 2.0’. As Koa’s Principal and Co-founder, Mark has unwavering focus on providing today’s children with an education that truly prepares them for the real world. “That’s a world with a significant, continually advancing digital realm and workplaces set in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” he says. “We’re educating kids for the fastest-changing world humans have ever known. They need to learn different skills and have different learning experiences from the generations before them. At Koa, we’re educating digital natives to be digitally literate.” What makes Koa Academy unique though, is its focus on high engagement. Learners attend school in 8-person Pods with a dedicated teacher who has an extraordinary opportunity to know them well. The school day starts with a Pod Connect session focused on socio-emotional learning and small group connection. Koa teachers curate globally sourced learning content that plays to each child’s strengths as they progress through the IEB curriculum. Subject specialist teachers are available for one-on-one and workshop sessions that promote academic achievement. Learners, teachers, and parents easily keep track of learning progress through individualized dashboards and timetables. The school community comes together for online assemblies, expert presentations, student-led clubs and expos, as well as in-person social events. Mark says, “At Koa, we root learning in real-world issues. We follow a mastery-based approach, so no one gets left behind or goes through school with frustrating learning gaps. Age-appropriate feedback is ongoing, and assessments are meaningful because they are embedded in the learning process. Our dedicated teachers facilitate content at each child’s own pace, and there is focused academic support exactly when it is needed. All this leads to the development of flexible and agile lifelong learners who are mastering the skills most needed for them to succeed in future work and citizenship.” Discover Koa Academy here.

August 10, 2022

LISTENING SKILLS – take note of the role of MUSIC!

You may have read the subject of today’s article and chuckled to yourself. As MUSIC is primarily an auditory experience, of course music has a role to play in promoting listening skills, you might be thinking! But, what I want to expand on today is not just “listening skills” in its most generic form, but AUDITORY PROCESSING. So, what is Auditory Processing and why it is so very important in a child’s development? What is Auditory Processing? Auditory Processing is the natural process of taking in sound through the ear and having it travel to the language area of the brain to be interpreted. In other words, Auditory Processing is “what our brain does with what the ear hears” (Katz). Why is it so important? Imagine this scenario: your child’s pre-school teacher tells him / her that show-and-tell is coming up and they can bring something to share with the class. She then goes over what is appropriate to bring and what is not. Your child must first use their auditory system to acknowledge that they know what show-and-tell is and how it works. Then, your child must use their auditory system to remember that the teacher said show-and-tell was this Friday. They then have to retain what was appropriate to bring and what was not. Finally, they must use their auditory system to store that information and recall or repeat the details to you when they come home from school. Acknowledge-Understand-Retain-Recall-Repeat So, Auditory Processing is not just important, it’s critical to our living and learning! Auditory Processing Disorder is a huge “buzz word” in education at the moment, and the impact of music education in assisting with this, is well known. (External reference – https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/central-auditory.html) Music and Auditory Processing Music strengthens the AUDITORY CORTEX, the part of the brain’s temporal lobe that processes aural information. This means that exposing your child to music-based activities from early on, can positively impact their auditory processing skills. Though scientists don’t yet fully understand the many ways music helps auditory processing and other cognitive skills, they do believe that participating in music-based activities in childhood lays down a neural scaffolding, or framework from which other, similar abilities can grow. Music challenges the brain to look for patterns and to differentiate tones, at a range of speeds. The brain also has to process different sounds in one piece of music simultaneously – picking out the melodies and harmonies. There are also deep-seated interactions between music and the way it is heard by the brain, that stimulate neural connections. FMRI scans show that when movement is added to the music-based activities, a fireworks display goes off in the brain! Movement-based activities help your child’s brain become a “whole” brain. These activities work the left and right sides of the brain to build those neural connections, while also building the brain from top to bottom and back to front. These are the areas that improve expressive language, retention, comprehension, emotional grounding, fight or flight responses, reasoning, critical thinking and much, much more. So, it makes sense that when you add music to movement, there’s the opportunity to really intensify the learning experience … That’s exactly what we aim to do with our Wriggle and Rhyme music and movement programme! We use the amazing medium of music as a catalyst for a vast range of learning and developmental skills. Take note of the role of MUSIC in developing LISTENING SKILLS 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.

August 10, 2022

Tips for longer-lasting fragrance

Have you ever sprayed your favourite perfume, only to find the scent disappeared after a couple of hours? It is common for fragrances with light, fresh notes to disappear faster than fragrances with heavier oriental, floral or woody notes. However, the longevity of your fragrance is not just dependent on its composition – it’s also largely dependent on how you use it. Follow these simple tips to ensure you get the most out of your fragrance and increase its longevity: Know your EDT from your EDP Most fragrances are either an “EDT” – eau de toilette, or an “EDP” – eau de parfum. An eau de toilette typically contains around 8-15% fragrance oil which lasts around 4-6 hours, in comparison to an eau de parfum which typically contains 15-30% fragrance oil and can last up to 8-10 hours. An eau de parfum therefore has a higher concentration of fragrance oil, meaning it will typically last longer on the skin. If you prefer not to reapply your fragrance during the day, then an eau de parfum is your best option, as it typically lasts for most of the day. For him, try: Mercedes Benz Sign Eau de Parfum (R1895.00 for 100ml). A fougere oriental, this fragrance features top notes of cardamom and pink peppercorn, heart notes of aromatic lavender, orange blossom, rose geranium and base notes of tonka bean, white musk and cashmere. For her, try: Mercedes Benz For Woman Eau De Parfum (R1495.00 for 60ml). It’s an enchanting, luxurious, unexpected fragrance created to accentuate and exalt a woman’s personality with a rich, sophisticated accord composed of sandalwood, vanilla, musk and cashmere woods. Moisturise your skin Moisturised skin holds onto fragrance a lot longer than drier skin. To make your scent last longer, we recommend applying a fragrance-free body lotion all over before you begin spritzing. Apply your fragrance after a shower The steam from a shower helps open the aroma of your fragrance: When you get out of the shower, your skin and body temperature is high, and heat helps diffuse fragrance. In addition, clean post-shower skin is free from sweat, oil and impurities which can interfere with your fragrance. Layer your fragrance If you have a shower gel or scented body lotion or oil of the same scent as your fragrance, layering these products will increase the longevity of your fragrance, and may also enhance your fragrance. Love an uplifting scent? Layer your fragrance with Superdry Re:Vive Body+Hair Wash (R95.99) and Superdry Re:Vive Body Spray (R79.99). Invigorating and zesty, this duo is powered by notes of cardamom and lemon. Prefer a marine-inspired scent? Try Superdry’s Pacific Men’s Body+Hair Wash (R95.99) and Pacific Men’s Body Spray (R79.99) features oceanic citrus marine notes and masculine mineral depths for a fresh, marine-inspired scent. Don’t rub your wrists together If you apply fragrance to your wrists, you may feel an instinctual urge to rub them together, but in doing this, you can make the top notes disappear faster. Not only does this affect the fragrance’s longevity, but it also alters its scent. Store your fragrance correctly Exposure to light and heat can chemically alter your fragrance. Maintain its scent and longevity by storing your fragrance correctly. Store your fragrance in a cool and dark place. As tempting as it is to keep it on your dressing table, exposure to sunlight and humidity can cause unwanted chemical reactions to occur. We recommend keeping it in its original bottle, in a drawer or cupboard not too close to a bathroom where it can be exposed to steam. Apply to your pulse points Experts recommend applying fragrance to your pulse points as your skin is the thinnest at these points, meaning the veins are closer to the skin, making these areas warmer. Essentially, pulse points are like mini radiators, and heat helps diffuse fragrance. Pulse points are found on the insides of your wrists and elbows, behind your ears, on your neck and the back of your knees. A few spritzes of Rockford Homme Wild Black Eau De Toilette (R425.00 for 100ml) on the wrists is all you need for all-day fragrance. This oriental, warm fragrance features ginger and citrus notes at the top, cinnamon and incense in the heart and leather and amber bottom notes. Don’t spray regular perfume in your hair The temptation to spray perfume in your hair is very real – after all, it holds fragrance longer than skin does. But most fragrances have a high alcohol percentage, and alcohol is dehydrating. Because dryness and dehydration is such a common hair concern, it’s best to avoid spraying your fragrance in your hair. Instead, opt for a hair mist or hair perfume. Formulated without drying alcohol, hair perfume is safe to use and won’t damage or dry your hair. Try Curls In Bloom Hair Perfume (R69.95). A light and nourishing formula that delicately scents the hair with green apples, lily of the valley and sandalwood, it also fights frizz, leaving hair soft and nourished throughout the day.

August 8, 2022

ASTHMA

Asthma is one of the most common chronic illnesses, affecting over 339 million people worldwide. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), asthma kills around 1 000 people every day and the prevalence is rising. South Africa is ranked 25th worldwide for asthma prevalence and is ranked fifth for asthma mortality. The lack of appropriate diagnosis, treatment or access to care may be important considerations in tackling asthma morbidity and mortality in South Africa. What is asthma? Asthma is one of the most common respiratory complaints in the world where your airways – known as bronchial rubes – become inflamed. This swelling or inflammation makes the airways extremely sensitive to irritations and increases their susceptibility to an allergic reaction. In an allergic reaction, the airways swell and the muscles around the airway tighten, making it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. It affects approximately one in 10 children (10%) and one in 20 adults (5%) and can occur for the first time at any age, even in adulthood. Although asthma usually begins before the age of five, a few children affected will ‘outgrow’ it during their teenage years but it usually persists if contracted in adulthood. Asthma tends to run in families, as do related allergic conditions like hay fever and eczema Signs and symptoms Asthma is often under-diagnosed and under-treated. If you fail to recognise and avoid triggers that lead to your tightened airways, you may have an asthma attack, feel respiratory distress or experience a life-threatening situation. So, it’s important that you know how to avoid the triggers and recognise the signs of this condition to enjoy a better quality of life. Symptoms can range from mild to more serious depending on the severity of the illness but include: Coughing that does not subside and gets worse at night Wheezing Shortness of breath Tightness or pain in the chest What causes asthma? The exact cause of the asthmatic process is not well understood but it is thought to be triggered off by an allergy or when the lungs are irritated by something in the air. Research shows that the risk facts are a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental exposure to inhaled substances and particles that may cause allergic reactions or irritate the airways. These include indoor allergens – such as dust mites and pet dander in the home, outdoor allergens – such as pollen and mould as well as tobacco smoke and air pollution. Other triggers can include cold air, stress or physical exercise. Certain medications, such as aspirin and other non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs and beta-blockers (which are used to treat high blood pressure, heart conditions and migraine) can also set off an asthma attack. Factors associated with asthma prevalence or disease severity in South African children include the adoption of an urban lifestyle, atopy (a genetic predisposition),obesity, respiratory infection, or exposure to industrial pollution or tobacco smoke. Treating asthma Asthma can be life threatening when left untreated and cannot be cured but, with the right treatment most asthmatics will lead completely normal lives. The aim of treatment should be to make the lungs and breathing tubes as normal as possible so that there are minimal symptoms and as little disruption to ordinary life as possible. Get help Bonitas Medical Fund says, ‘If you are experiencing asthma symptoms or think you might have asthma, it is important for you to talk to your GP. This will help you establish if your symptoms are linked to asthma or whether something else is causing them.’

August 8, 2022

GIRL POWER GO! WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH, THE GIRLS GET GOING!

This Women’s Month line-up is packed with Girl Power Go!From a crazy girl’s night out with Starfire and Raven in Teen Titans Go! to our favourite sisterhoodDC Super Hero Girls, tracking a mysterious warrior, powerful women are our stars.In The Amazing World of Gumball, Anais faces her bully, and in Craig of the Creek, Kelsea takes on a terrifying quest. Stay tuned for the Lego DC Super Hero Girls: Super-Villain High movie, where the girls discover a new high school for villains and must rescue the students from their own fate! Get ready for this girl power stunt, only on Cartoon Network Africa. TUNE IN: Tuesday, 09 August @ 09:55 CAT

August 8, 2022

I Am Groot

“I Am Groot” is a collection of five original shorts starring Baby Groot, everyone’s favourite 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 centre stage in his very own 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, is the voice of Baby Groot. 10 August

August 8, 2022

Let’s make tummy time fun

Make tummy time even more fun for your baby with this Fisher-Price Music & Vibe Sloth Tummy Wedge. The two respositionable activity toys, which include a BPA-free leaf teether and colourful clackers, will encourage your little one to lift their head and push up to play with them, while strengthening their neck and core muscles. They can enjoy exploring the textures of the large, friendly crinkle sloth face with his soft “hair” as gentle music and vibrations play for up to 10 minutes to calm them and give them extra comfort. From birth and up. Keep your little one engaged during tummy time with this fun Fisher-Price Music & Vibe Sloth Tummy Wedge toy.The two repositionable activity toys will encourage your baby to lift their head and push up to engage with them, while strengthening their neck and core muscles. Your baby will enjoy exploring the large, friendly crinkle sloth face and his “hair” as comforting music and vibrations play for up to 10 minutes.The two activity toys featured within this Fisher-Price interactive toy for babies, are a BPA-free leaf teether and colourful clackers.Machine washable (with electronics removed).

August 5, 2022

Step up to support breast feeding

At My Breastpump we celebrate World Breast Feeding week every year from the 1-7 August. This year the theme is “Stepping up to support breast feeding”. During the pandemic the support for breastfeeding dropped drastically. Mothers were not able to have face to face support groups, some antenatal preparation classes were cancelled or moved online, partners were not able to attend doctors visit or sometimes even attend the birth. Some mothers were all alone in the hospital until discharge. Mothers were then further isolated after giving birth in order to protect their new born from exposure to Corona Virus. All of these practices resulted in less breast-feeding support for mothers and their families. Now is the time that we need to start bring back all the different types of breast-feeding support that we know works and is enjoyed by mothers but also to learn from the new ways of supporting mothers that we learnt due to the pandemic. Over the last 2 years, My Breastpump has supported mothers by running Online breastfeeding and pumping workshops with our lactation consultant. Assisted with antenatal classes. Attended many of the baby shows country wide, chatting to mothers about breast feeding and pumping. Collaborated with Little Little Prem with online classes for mothers that have just had premature infants to help and support them. Write breastfeeding article that are published monthly on Parenting Hub. Our goal is to support mothers by giving them correct and valuable information around breast feeding and pumping so that they are confidant and able to breast feed. Hacks for mothers who want to breast feed or pump: 1. Start learning about breast feeding while you are pregnant The more that you know about breast feeding the better equipped you will be and, more able to make informed choices about how your baby is fed. 2. Talk to your partner about how they can support you to breastfeed Studies have shown that when a mother has a partner that support breast feeding, they are more likely to have a successful breast-feeding relationship. There are many different and supportive roles that partners can play with breast feeding. Some examples are: they can support and help with latching, make sure the mom is comfortable and well hydrated during feeds, change nappies and do bath time so that mom can rest. 3. Understand how breast milk is made By understanding breast milk production this can really help you with your breastfeeding. You will be able to increase your milk supply, manage engorgement and know that your body responds to your baby’s needs. Learn about prolactin and oxytocin and how they make breast milk. Learn how to “flip on” your body’s breast-feeding switch. This will make you more confidence with your breast milk making abilities. 4. Learn how to breast feed with a deep latch Learning how to breastfeed comfortable is key to enjoying breastfeeding and also a good milk supply. Learn how to hold your baby so that you will be able to get a nice comfortable deep latch. This will help to make your feed time shorter while ensuring that your baby gets enough breast milk. A deep latch also prevents pain and many of the other complications that can happen with a shallow latch. 5. Know how to monitor your baby to see if they are getting enough milk Many mothers worry that they are not giving their baby enough milk or that her baby is hungry. With breast feeding there are ways to monitor how her baby is feeding and to check if they are getting enough milk. 6. Know what to look for in a breast pump for best results Learn the important features and specs of the breast pump so that you are able to buy the wright breast pump for you. Features that you should consider when buying a breast pump are: closed system, warranty duration, hospital grade and double, so that you can make the best-informed choice which you purchase your breast pump. So many mothers end up buying a second pump because the first one was not working correctly. See an article here for more information 7. Learn how to store and manage your breast milk stash Storage of expressed breast milk is really important that you do not want any of your milk to go to waste or use a breast milk storage bag that might burst while in the freezer. See more about building up your breast milk stash 8. Know when to ask for help and who to ask As moms we are told we can and should do every thing but this is not true. When we need help, we just need to ask for it. The same is true with breast feeding and pumping. Asking for help can save your milk supply, increase your confidence and let you enjoy being a breast-feeding mom. Pop us a message and we will help you find a lactation consultant near you. 9. Find out from work what the HR policy is for when you return to work with regards to expressing In South Africa there are recommendation that woman returning to work after having their baby should have breast feeding breaks and these breaks should be in a clean and safe area. Ask your HR before you go on maternity leave what the policy is so that you are prepared and ready when you go back to work. If there is no policy, then you can work with them to make sure that you are able to express your breast milk. Read more about Work place and breast feeding balance 10. Take one day at a time Taking one day at a time and living in the moment is a great way to spend your maternity leave. Focus on what you have achieve today with your breast feeding and you will be surprised how quickly the time flys by. If you are expecting a baby or new to breast feeding you are

August 5, 2022

SCREENTIME: BALANCING THE BENEFITS VS PERILS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN

Screens have become ubiquitous among young children, whose often exhausted parents need their child entertained and engaged while they work, go out or take some much-needed me-time. Whereas parents used to lug around huge bags filled with toys in the past, these have now been replaced by bright, responsive and, frankly, more compelling devices. The screentime debate got virtually muted during Covid, as parents needed the electronic nanny more than ever, and kids moved onto their devices for schooling. But the time is right again to have a discussion not about cancelling screentime, but about how to strike the right balance between screentime and green time, as well as the differences between different kinds of screentime as children, continue their educational journeys online to a significant degree, an education expert says. “We need to avoid the scaremongering and bad science that leads to an unbalanced understanding of the importance of screens in today’s educational ecosystem and instead consider the specific types and uses of a screen when deciding on how to strike a balance in terms of screentime,” says Colin Northmore, Principal at Evolve Online School, a brand of ADvTECH, Africa’s largest private education provider. Northmore points out that the issue of screentime has become more vexing than ever before, as the “relaxation” type of screentime has now become augmented by “educational” screentime, and parents struggle to make a call on where to draw the line. “Most research recommends that children spend no more than 1 to 4 hours a day looking at a screen. As an online school, one could say that we have a vested interest in arguing that screentime is not harmful. However, the truth is that like most things in life, it is a bit more complicated than that because screentime as a catch-all phrase is not a useful measurement on its own,” Northmore says. “Additionally, as many students are in front of a screen for educational purposes – would that be considered screentime or not? The answer lies in defining three different types of screentime: passive, active and engaged.” PASSIVE SCREENTIME is when the person is watching a screen for entertainment reasons without interacting with the content physically or cognitively. Typical examples are watching television or YouTube videos. It can also include some games that require routine and easily learned responses, like various popular games in the app stores. Unfortunately, where an online school uses mostly pre-recorded lessons or lectures, those should fall into the ‘passive screentime’ category. Northmore says passive screen time should be limited to one hour a day for younger children. ACTIVE SCREENTIME requires the viewer to interact with what is on the screen. Many computer games fall into this category. Documentaries can also sometimes be considered active if the student takes time to make notes about the content or debate it with family or classmates. Online classes are considered active if the teacher’s process requires children’s full attention (but not necessarily active participation). Some apps used for mathematics, reading and grammar practice can also lead to a child actively using a screen. Active screentime can be rationed at 1 to 3 hours a day, depending on the length of and spacing between sessions. Grade 0 to 3 students should not spend more than 30 minutes in any active session. COGNITIVE SCREENTIME requires active engagement from the participant and should form the bulk of an online school’s teaching, failing which this time should be allocated to passive screentime. Northmore says meaningful online schooling should use systems that make it possible to interrupt the video and ask questions before the viewing can continue. Teachers can then decide if the answer is correct before the video proceeds. If necessary, the video can be rewound to require children to watch a piece repeatedly until they demonstrate understanding. Students can spend between 2 to 4 hours a day on cognitive screentime activities. “It is important to ensure that the screentime that your child is exposed to is a combination of the three types and that schooling isn’t automatically considered cognitive screentime when it is, in fact, passive screentime,” says Northmore. He adds that parents should also keep in mind that children need, in addition to time spent on screens, green time, team time and Dreamtime. Green time is outside time without devices – the backyard, park, or sports field. Kids need outside physical activities, and ideally, an online school should provide opportunities for such just the same as a physical school would do, such as assigning tasks requiring students to get outside to find answers. Team time is also essential, particularly in the online schooling environment, which can be isolating if not actively supported. Dreamtime develops a child’s imagination and is the most powerful tool for overcoming obstacles and finding creative solutions to seemingly unsolvable problems. Mindfulness exercises and imaginative play are crucial to developing the imagination, and even online schools should actively include Dreamtime in curricula. “Parents must carefully consider the approach of screentime pedagogy in an online school or not. Screentime cannot be regarded as valuable learning time if it is mainly paper behind glass. Children still need social interaction and collaborative learning. “So when making the call on screentime limits for children, parents need to carefully weigh up the categories into which their child’s screentime falls every day, and make their assessment accordingly.

August 5, 2022

HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 2 – WHAT ARE YOUR MOST “MONSTERIFIC” MOVES?

Take in this treat of a monster boot camp movie on Cartoon Network. Ever since Mavis, Dracula’s daughter, became a mom, he has been the happiest vampire grandpa in the world! His toddler monster grandchild, Dennis, is the apple of his vamp eye. So much so that even his monster-only hotel policy has relaxed, and he now allows human guests to visit. But behind closed coffins, he’s secretly worried because his adorable half-human, half-vampire grandson isn’t showing signs of being a vampire. When the time comes for Mavis to take a trip to visit her in-laws, “Drac” takes his chance to test and train Dennis to be a “vamp”, and the boot camp rampage begins. TUNE IN: Monday, 08 August @ 09:55 CAT

August 5, 2022

ZIG & SHARKO

Singing seashells! It’s marvellous Marina! Marina, the mermaid with the merry laugh and melodious voice, is singing her way into the spotlight this Women’s Month. In this special two-day Zig & Sharko marathon, Marina is simply adorable! She may live on a rock in a heavenly lagoon, but her days are filled with excitement, and she has so many suitors! A castaway, a fisherman and even King Neptune himself. Boomerang can’t wait to bring you these episodes full of her playful stories. And while her melodies make her a superstar singer, watch out because there is a rumour that another mermaid might show up in the lagoon. PREMIERE: Monday, 08 August 2022 TUNE IN: Monday & Tuesday @ 07:30 CAT

August 5, 2022

Natural organic oils vs mineral oils

Here’s why knowing the difference could have major benefits for your skin. With such a big variety of oils on the market these days that it’s important to gain an understanding of what each type of oil is, and what it does, so that you can use it to your advantage. After all, not all oils are created equal, so it’s important to know what you’re putting on your skin. Two of the most common oils used in cosmetic products are natural organic oils and mineral oils. Different in their make-up and origin, they’re often put up against one another in the quest to find the best skincare treatments. Understanding the differences between them will help you make an informed decision – and it could save the health of your skin! Natural organic oil What is it? The term “organic” is often misused in the beauty industry, leading to confusion and misinformation. An ingredient or product is “organic” if it adheres to certain standards and requirements during the sourcing, production and processing phases. This includes practices like avoiding the use of prohibited substances (for example pesticides) and other potentially harmful additives. Natural organic oils are oils sourced organically, from organically-grown plants, fruits, nuts, flowers, bark, leaves, roots and stems. These oils are highly concentrated and filled with natural nutrients. Pros These oils absorb into the skin quickly and can actually penetrate the skin through pores and the intracellular matrix. Natural organic oils offer a wide variety of skincare benefits. They may be moisturising, antimicrobial, soothing, clarifying, detoxifying, balancing and rejuvenating. Natural organic oils are free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives and are safe to use on skin. Many of these oils have been used for centuries, providing us with the peace of mind that their long-term use is safe and beneficial. Organic farming practices are eco-friendly; they help restore soil health and prevent harmful chemicals from entering water sources and soil. Cons Natural organic oils may be more expensive than other oils. In a very small percentage of people, the use of certain natural oils may lead to skin sensitivity or irritation. The terms “natural” and “organic” are not well-regulated, and are often used in misleading ways. When purchasing natural organic oils, make sure you are buying from a reputable brand that’s transparent about the source of the ingredients. Mineral oil What is it? Despite being a popular ingredient in cosmetic products, mineral oil is known to arouse quite a bit of suspicion. It is, essentially, a derivative of petroleum (as in crude oil). But unlike untreated crude oil, mineral oil is highly refined and stripped from potentially harmful carcinogenics like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons before it is used in cosmetics (mineral oil is popularly used in antiperspirants and moisturisers). Despite being refined, there is still a lot of concern over the trace amounts of chemicals present in mineral oils, and their potential to pose health risks. The pros Mineral oil has the ability to protect the skin’s natural barrier and to lock in moisture. It has hydrating, softening and smoothing properties. It is well-tolerated and inert, and while some plant-based oils may cause irritation, mineral oil is unlikely to trigger sensitivity or irritation. It is inexpensive. The cons Depending on its level of refinement, mineral oil may be comedogenic, meaning it can clog pores, causing blackheads and breakouts. It is highly occlusive, which has led to concerns that it may prevent toxins from leaving the body through the skin. There are concerns over the trace amounts of chemicals present in mineral oil, which are present despite the refinement process. It is derived from a non-renewable resource. While it is effective at forming a thin barrier on top of the skin to prevent moisture loss, it can leave a heavy feel on the skin, so it needs to be combined with other ingredients to improve its cosmetic appeal. While we know that mineral oil goes through a refinement process, some companies use more refined mineral oil than others, and as a consumer, it is very difficult to know how refined the oil in your product is. If not highly refined, it may include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are carcinogenic. Typically, mineral oils used in the USA are not as refined as those used in Europe. Medical News Today recommends*, “People should avoid buying products that contain mineral oil unless the label states that it is fully refined as white petrolatum or white mineral oil. White mineral oil is highly purified and meets specifications to ensure that it is safe to use in over-the-counter products.” Considering both the pros and the cons of natural organic and mineral oils, it is clear that natural organic oils are not only better for your health, but also for the environment. Looking for top quality natural organic oils to nourish and protect your skin? BaoCare is a proudly South African skincare brand that harnesses the power of organic baobab oil to offer consumers 100% natural healing baobab oil serums suitable for the whole family. Why baobab oil? The baobab tree is known for offering an abundance of treasures, with almost every part of the tree (roots, leaves, fruit etc) being utilised by people living around it. The discovery of the beauty benefits of baobab oil has led to this natural oil gaining international recognition and popularity in the beauty industry. A lot of lotions and moisturisers on the market are water-based, which means that they require added stabilizers, synthetic preservatives, performance enhancers and fragrances to keep them stable and improve the user’s sensorial experience. Natural organic oils rarely need any of these additives, and baobab oil in particular is a very stable oil that does not require preservatives (it has a natural shelf-life of two years or more!). Baobab oil is a naturally light oil made up of very small molecules and therefore absorbs quickly and easily into the skin. It leaves your skin with a soft satiny finish without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue. It’s one of

August 4, 2022

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