Parenting - Parenting Hub

Advice from the experts

Debunking Common Myths About Baby Fevers

When your baby feels a bit warmer than usual, it’s natural to worry. But most fevers aren’t something to panic about. Trusted1 by parents to fight their little one’s pain and provide relief when needed most, Panado®’s Paediatric Range of syrups are ready to work immediately.2 What Causes A Mild Temperature? A fever can feel worrying, but it’s usually a sign that your baby’s body is working just as it should to fight off infection. Remember, a fever isn’t an illness on its own.3a When your tot’s temperature rises, it usually means their immune system has sprung into action and is sending out white blood cells to fight off and destroy invading bacteria and viruses.3b Your baby’s temperature can rise for all sorts of harmless reasons. Most of the time, it’s down to common bugs like colds,4a flu,4b or ear infections.4c Sometimes it happens after the administration of a vaccine4d or simply from being a bit too warm from hot weather or too much clothing.4e Teething can also make babies feel slightly hotter than usual.4d Of course, when your little one feels uncomfortable, all you want is to help them feel better, quickly and safely. The Power To Fight Their Pain Panado® Paediatric Range contains paracetamol, 5a one of the world’s trusted medicines for relieving pain and fever and backed by over 150 years of clinical use.5b Syrups are a reliable and convenient solution for pain and fever relief, eliminating the challenges associated with suspensions.2b The medicine is already dissolved, so there’s no need to worry about uneven doses.2c This ensures accuracy every time, making life just that little bit easier for parents. For the tiniest family members, Panado® Peppermint Syrup,6 suitable from birth, combines effective relief with an improved taste7 which makes dosing smoother and more pleasant. Panado®’s paracetamol-based Strawberry Paediatric Syrup10 now in convenient single-serve sachets, offers on-the-go relief for unexpected pain and fever in babies and children. Newly launched, each sachet contains a 5 ml dose, making it easy to dose and is small enough to carry in your pocket. And for babies from three months old, Panado® Infant Drops8 – recognised as Product of the Year 2025 in the Child Health category9 – provide precise dosing and easy administration, helping parents deliver the right amount every time. For added peace of mind, parents can scan the QR code or use the online Panado® Dosage Calculator at https://panado.co.za/dosage-calculator, which adjusts the dosage based on a child’s age and weight. This extra step helps ensure the right dose every time. New Look, Same Trusted1 Relief The Panado® Strawberry Syrup10 pack makes life easier for parents, with clear pain relief guidance. It helps you spot the right option in seconds, because when your child isn’t feeling well, you want to act fast and with confidence. Part of South African Family Life for Generations Panado® works fast11 and has been passed down through generations and is trusted1 by families across the country. So next time your baby feels warm to the touch, try not to panic. WithPanado®, you’ve got trusted1 pain relief on your side, helping you comfort your baby confidently – from day one. Panado® products are available from Baby City, Pick n Pay, Checkers including Hypers, Shoprite, Clicks, Dis-Chem and independent pharmacies. For more information, visit:https://panado.co.za/ and join the conversations on Facebook. For references and legal disclaimers, visit https://panado.co.za/references. Embrace the Winter Warrior within, with Panado® As we brace ourselves for the winter months, it’s wise to be prepared. Adcock Ingram’s Winter Warriors 2026 Campaign offers a range of products aimed at combating common cold and flu symptoms. With trusted brands like Cepacol®, Panado®, Compral®, ProbiFlora™, Gummy® Vites and ViralGuard™, you can arm yourself and your loved ones against the seasonal sniffles. Approval ticket #02.20261000004802. February 2026.

May 21, 2026

Protecting Hearing from Newborn to Adulthood

We live in a country where daily life can include everything from bustling taxi ranks and construction noise to loud music and community events, and protecting your hearing is not just important; it is essential across every stage of life. The reality is that noise-induced hearing loss is permanent but often preventable with appropriate precautions. At NB Hearing and Balance, we believe that building good habits early and maintaining them over time can make a meaningful difference. Why Noise Awareness Matters Sound is measured in decibels (dB), and prolonged exposure to sounds above 85 dB can increase the risk of hearing damage. For context, busy traffic or a minibus taxi ride can reach this level, while concerts, nightclubs, and even some religious services can exceed 100 dB. Other cultural and social environments often celebrate music and community gatherings, both important aspects of life, but they can also increase the risk of long-term hearing damage if precautions are not taken. Protecting Hearing from the Very Beginning: Newborns and Infants Did you know that newborns have highly sensitive auditory systems, and early exposure to loud environments can be harmful? In addition, identifying hearing challenges early is critical for speech and language development. Tips for newborn hearing protection: Early Childhood and Primary School Years Our school environments can sometimes be noisy, and children may also be exposed to loud music through headphones, tablets, or shared devices. At this stage, education and habit-building are key. Tips for protecting young ears: This is also the stage where early signs of hearing or auditory processing difficulties may become noticeable, particularly in classroom settings. Teenagers and Young Adults: High-Risk Years Teenagers and young adults are among the most at-risk groups for noise-induced hearing damage. Social activities often include loud music, whether through headphones, clubs, festivals, or car sound systems. Often, music and nightlife are vibrant parts of youth culture, and awareness becomes especially important. Practical strategies: Temporary ringing in the ears (tinnitus) after a night out is a possible early warning sign and should not be ignored. Adults in the Workplace and Daily Life It is not unusual for many to be exposed to occupational noise, particularly in industries like mining, construction, manufacturing, and transport. Even outside of formal workplaces, daily exposure to traffic, generators during load shedding, and urban noise can add up. Workplace and lifestyle tips: Employers also have a responsibility to implement hearing conservation programmes, but personal awareness remains crucial. Older Adults: Maintaining Hearing Health Hearing changes can naturally occur with age, but lifelong noise exposure can accelerate this process. Untreated hearing loss in older adults is linked to social isolation, reduced quality of life, and even cognitive decline. The good news is that proactive care can help maintain hearing and overall wellbeing. Key considerations: A Lifelong Commitment to Hearing Health Protecting your hearing is not about avoiding sound; it is about managing it wisely. Consistent actions can have a lasting impact. Whether it is lowering the volume, wearing ear protection, or scheduling a hearing check, these steps help preserve one of our most important senses. Hearing connects us to people, to environments, and to experiences. Taking care of it should be part of everyday life. Our audiologists are here to help and have convenient locations across Cape Town. Contact us, we are here to listen.

May 12, 2026

Helping Your Child to Create Consistency

Consistency is one of the surest roads to success in any sphere of life. Being disciplined enough to show up and do the work required to achieve an aim or complete a project will all but guarantee seeing the results you want. However, where do we learn what consistency means, and how to achieve it? What are the steps to follow? Lack of consistency is one of the things many of our learners struggle with, and if we are being honest, the same holds true for us as adults. But what is consistency? What does it actually mean? Consistency, in this context, refers to regularity and reliability. Doing the work you have taken responsibility for so that others can count on you. Delivering that which you have been tasked with doing in a timely way, and at the level of quality and completeness that makes it effective. Or showing up for someone in a way they can count on. If you, as a parent, miss picking your child up from school or activities every so often, it means they can’t feel safe in the knowledge that you will be there at the agreed-upon time and place every time. Likewise, if a learner is expected to be in class every day at a certain time but they only show up randomly, their attendance is inconsistent. The question is how to instil this sense of consistency in our young learners. Simply providing the tools and the encouragement is not enough. Teaching them how to study, but not how to keep showing up every day from the first to the last day of school, is not sufficient. So how do we teach our learners to become consistent and reliable, to show up for themselves and others? One very useful method of practising and instilling consistency is the notion of taking just one small, initial step. Doing one meaningful thing, however small, that takes you in the direction of your goal. For example, let’s say we have a learner who tends to procrastinate doing homework. Often, they experience a degree of task paralysis, where they put off even getting started because the project is too overwhelming, or seems too hard, or just not really fun. One way of bypassing that feeling of paralysis is with the 5-minute rule. It’s such a negligible amount of time that your brain can’t really push back against it too much. Learners can literally set a timer for five minutes, get all their materials together and start the timer when they start working. More often than not, when the timer goes off, they will continue working because they feel that they’ve just started or that it’s not so bad once they get into the flow . EduHelp founder, Melissa van Hal, talks about breaking the task down into smaller steps to overcome resistance or overwhelm in her booklet, Proactive Steps (2025). If it still feels like too much, break it down even further. Physically move towards the area where you will do the task. Pick up one tool (like a pen or a notebook) that you will use for the task, and just interact with it. Say to yourself out loud, “I will start by doing …”. These are all small steps that get your brain ready to perform the task before you actually sit down to do it. It primes your brain to start thinking about how to do the task, instead of the difficulty of getting started on it. But how does this relate to consistency? Accomplishing tasks, doing chores, and checking items off a to-do list all trigger the brain’s reward system. When this system is activated, it releases dopamine, the brain’s feel-good hormone. This is the same hormone released through likes on social media, and game designers specifically build lots of small rewards into games to keep people playing for longer and coming back more often. When we break our tasks down into smaller, more manageable steps and execute these, the dopamine released enhances our positive feelings about the task and ourselves, prompting us to take another step. We can encourage our learners (and ourselves!) to make physical to-do lists with the steps needed, as checking items off that list adds an extra boost of self-confidence and accomplishment. However, it’s important to pay attention to when feelings of overwhelm and the desire to procrastinate come up. This can alert you to what your triggers are and help you to work around them with self-compassion. Taking the time to celebrate the small wins, giving yourself a mental pat on the back or a quiet “good job!” can be the impetus for taking one more step toward your goal. The more you practise this, the better your results will be, and the more likely you are to start your next task that little bit more easily. Consistency is not only a requirement for success in our professional lives, it also builds trust in our personal lives and shows people that they can rely on us. As such, it is one of the most vital skills to learn, and instilling it at an early age is one of the best lessons we can teach our children. If your learner is struggling with consistency, feels anxious or overwhelmed by tasks and projects, or just cannot seem to get started, reach out to us on eduhelp.co.za and let’s chat about how we can support you and your learner on their educational journey. Also, check out my related article titled Consistency vs Cramming on our blog page. With a little bit of strategy and encouragement, you can help your learner to become more consistent and boost their self-confidence to boot!

May 11, 2026

Managing Exam Stress & Preparing Smart: A How-To Guide

Exams can feel overwhelming for any learner, but for many, especially neurodivergent learners (such as those with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, or anxiety), the pressure can be even more intense. The good news is that stress doesn’t have to take over. With the right strategies, preparation, and support, you can approach exams with confidence and control. This guide is designed specifically for South African learners, taking into account curriculum demands, and common challenges faced in classrooms. Understanding exam stress Exam stress is your body’s natural response to pressure. A little bit can help you stay alert, but too much can lead to: For neurodivergent learners, these feelings can be stronger or show up differently, for example: Understanding how stress affects you is the first step in managing it. Why early preparation matters Cramming the night before doesn’t work well for most learners, and it’s especially difficult for neurodivergent brains that benefit from structure and repetition. Preparing early helps you: Step 1: Start early (even if it’s just a little) You don’t need to study for hours every day. Start small: Tip: Break work into chunks. Instead of “Study Natural Sciences,” try: This is especially helpful for learners who feel overwhelmed by big tasks. Step 2: Create a flexible study plan A study timetable helps you stay organised, but it must be realistic. Here are some good timetable habits: For neurodivergent learners: Use visual planners or colour-coded schedules Try apps or alarms for reminders Keep routines consistent (same time, same place) Step 3: Study smarter, not harder Not all study methods are equal. Passive reading is one of the least effective. Better techniques include: Neurodivergent-friendly strategies include: Step 4: Adapt study methods to your brain There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach. If you have ADHD: If you are autistic: If you have dyslexia: Step 5: Manage stress in healthy ways You can’t eliminate stress completely, but you can control how you respond. Simple techniques that help include: Avoid: Step 6: Take care of your body Your brain works best when your body is supported. For many learners, especially neurodivergent ones, fatigue can make focus and emotional control much harder. Step 7: Ask for support You don’t have to do this alone. Speak to: In South Africa, many schools also offer concessions or accommodations for learners with diagnosed learning differences, don’t hesitate to ask about these. Step 8: Focus on progress, not perfection Exams are important, but they don’t define your worth or your future. Instead of thinking: ❌ “I must get everything right” Try: ✅ “I will do my best with the preparation I’ve done” Final thoughts Exam stress is real, but it’s manageable. The key is starting early, finding study methods that work for your brain, and taking care of yourself along the way. For neurodivergent learners especially, success doesn’t come from doing things the “normal” way, it comes from doing what works best for you. You are capable. You are not alone. And with the right strategies, you can handle exams with confidence.

May 8, 2026

Putting together your birth plan

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

May 7, 2026

The Youngest Heroes of Gotham Return!

Batwheels powers up for a super-charged third season premiering on Monday, 4 May on Cartoonito Gear up, Gotham! The wheels are back in motion as BATWHEELS launches its third season on Cartoonito, rolling onto screens Monday, 4 May on DStv channel 302. While helping Batman, Robin and Batgirl defend Gotham, Bam, Redbird, Bibi, Batwing and Buff are thrust into hilarious hijinks and jaw-dropping action as they learn important lessons about teamwork, friendship, and so much more. Batwheels, a lively team of thinking, talking, crime-fighting vehicles, always put their best wheels forward as they take on Gotham’s most notorious troublemakers. Season 3 dials up the action with high-stakes missions, unexpected team-ups, exciting upgrades and even space-level challenges. These new adventures mark some of the Batwheels’ most dynamic and ambitious missions yet. At its core, the series continues to champion friendship, teamwork, self‑confidence and problem‑solving, told through the eyes (and headlights!) of kid‑like vehicles still learning the rules of the road. Led by Bam, the Batmobile with a strong sense of justice, the crew includes Bibi, Redbird, Batwing and Buff, guided by the Batcomputer and kept in top shape by the ever-chaotic MOE as they discover what it truly means to be heroes. The Batwheels crew is joined once again by their mischievous rival squad, the Legion of Zoom: Badcomputer, Prank, Ducky, Jestah, Quizz, Snowy and Kitty, who bring fast-paced, comedic chaos to every chase. Alongside these villainous vehicles, the series also features iconic characters from the Batman universe, including Batman (voiced by Ethan Hawke), Robin, Batgirl, Joker, Harley Quinn, Mr. Freeze, Penguin, Toyman, Poison Ivy and Catwoman, ensuring Gotham’s streets are always full of familiar faces, big personalities and even bigger adventures. Produced by Warner Bros. Animation, Batwheels is steered by a powerhouse creative team, including Creator, Developer & Executive Producer Michael G. Stern, and Executive Producer Simon J. Smith. Season 3 rolls out 28 episodes in total – 26 high-energy 11’ missions and two extended two-part specials, each running at 22’ each. Since its debut in 2024, Batwheels has raced ahead as the DC universe’s first preschool expansion. It reached 100 million individuals on linear channels globally and became the #1 show on the Cartoonito Global YouTube channel, generating 523M+ views across WBD Kids YouTube channels. Across its first two seasons, the series established the Batwheels as breakout preschool heroes, inspiring young viewers with action‑packed stories rooted in teamwork, bravery and kindness. Its standout storytelling has also earned industry recognition, including a 2024 Annie Awards nomination for Best Animated Television/Media Production for Preschool Children. Catch Batwheels Season 3 from 4 May @ 15:30 on Cartoonito, weekdays on DStv 302 — buckle up for the ride of the season.

May 4, 2026

Tiny Hands, Forever Held: The Beauty of Newborn Casting

There is something indescribably special about the first few weeks of a baby’s life. The way their tiny fingers curl around yours, the softness of their skin, the quiet moments that seem to pass far too quickly. As parents, we often wish we could pause time — just for a moment — to hold onto these fleeting details forever. Newborn casting offers exactly that. This delicate art form captures the intricate details of your baby’s hands and feet in a way that photographs alone simply cannot. Every crease, every tiny nail, every soft curve is preserved in a timeless keepsake that tells a story words often cannot express. It is more than just a mould — it is a memory, frozen in time. Many parents discover newborn casting when they realise just how quickly their little one is growing. In what feels like a blink, those tiny hands become busy little explorers, and those curled-up toes begin to take their first steps. Casting allows you to hold onto the very beginning — the stage where everything is still new, fragile, and incredibly precious. Safety, of course, is every parent’s first concern. Professional newborn casting uses gentle, skin-safe materials that are specifically designed for delicate newborn skin. The process is quick, non-invasive, and carried out with the utmost care, ensuring baby remains comfortable and calm throughout. Beyond the emotional value, these casts become treasured heirlooms. Displayed in your home, they serve as a daily reminder of just how small your baby once was. Over time, they become part of your family’s story — something to look back on, to share, and to pass down. At Nadine Dutton Casting Studio, each piece is created with patience, precision, and a deep understanding of how meaningful these moments are. Every casting session is approached with care, ensuring both baby and parents feel at ease, while creating a bespoke piece that is as unique as your child. Because some moments deserve more than just a memory — they deserve to be held forever.

May 4, 2026

Swizil app offers a new kind of photo sharing, built for privacy and real connection

Swizil is rethinking photo sharing online. Designed for people who want to create, store and share their moments in a space they truly control, Swizil replaces the noise of public feeds with a calmer, more personal gallery, visible only to the people who matter. Privacy sits at the heart of the app. Every post stays within invited circles of family and friends, or smaller private groups. There are no public follower counts and no algorithms – each person chooses exactly who sees their photos. And when a moment does deserve a wider audience, it can be sent directly from Swizil to social channels such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or WhatsApp in a single step. Swizil brings sharing back to what it was meant to be: real connection. It’s for parents who want to post their children’s milestones safely, for people tired of performing online, and for anyone who wants a digital space that feels genuine rather than judged. The app is designed to feel easy and natural from the first tap. Smart features like auto-captions and instant collections help keep galleries organised and searchable, while pre-set filters and hashtags allow users to shape each post in a way that reflects their own style. For a daily spark of inspiration, users can even select and change their in-app persona to match their mood, bringing a subtle creative lift to the everyday. Swizil. Worth sharing “I built Swizil because sharing stopped feeling real. Somewhere along the way, we turned our moments into content. I wanted to bring it back to something simple – a space that feels personal again, where what you share actually means something.” – Cheryl Shorney, Founder of Swizil

May 4, 2026

Redefining play: Creating inclusive spaces for children on the autism spectrum

In a move that reflects a growing shift to combine enjoyment with personal growth, social connection and community impact, Rush, an indoor playpark, has invested in specialised autism training for its teams. ‘We recognise that traditional high-energy environments can be overwhelming for some neurodivergent children,’ explains Richard Poulton, National Brand Manager at Rush. ‘So we partnered with by Autism Western Cape to equip our staff with the understanding and practical tools needed to better support children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families.’ ASD is a neurological condition that affects how individuals communicate, interact socially and experience the world. In South Africa, approximately 1 in 31 children are diagnosed with ASD, highlighting the need for more inclusive public and recreational spaces. The team behind Rush then took meaningful steps to ensure that play is accessible to all children, including those on the autism spectrum by hosting a free dedicated, neurodivergent-friendly open day, at Rush in Claremont on Wednesday, April 29. Around 200 children – aged between 3 and 16 – together with their parents and caregivers attended. Space for every child to play The open day was designed for families within the ADHD and autism community. By adjusting the environment from sensory stimuli (no music or televisions), including chill tents and ensuring trained staff were present, Rush created a space where children could have fun on their own terms, free from pressure or overstimulation. ‘Play is a fundamental part of childhood development but for many families navigating autism, finding safe and supportive environments is not always easy,’ says Julia Iles from Rush. ‘This initiative is about removing barriers, not just for a day but as part of a longer journey towards more inclusive spaces.’ Why play and movement matters Beyond its social benefits, play, particularly activities like trampolining, can offer meaningful developmental support for children on the autism spectrum. Research shows that trampoline-based activities can: For some children, the rhythmic motion of jumping can also serve as a form of self-regulation, helping them manage stress, anxiety or sensory input. A collaborative approach Autism Western Cape played a central role in facilitating both the training and coordinating the upcoming event. ‘True inclusion starts with understanding and responsiveness,’ says Roshan Subailey of Autism Western Cape. ‘By investing in training and creating spaces like this, Rush is demonstrating what it means to move beyond awareness towards meaningful, everyday inclusion. These initiatives show how organisations can create environments where neurodivergency is embraced and supported.’ From awareness to action While awareness of autism has grown, practical inclusion remains a challenge, particularly in leisure environments designed around noise, movement and stimulation. The training programme addressed this gap head-on and provided staff – from front-of-house teams to court monitors – with foundational understanding of autism, including: ‘The training really shifted our perspective. We feel more confident now in how we approach and support children who may experience our spaces differently,’ says Shameerah Toffey, team leader at Rush. Looking ahead While this open day marks an important milestone, Rush sees this as part of a broader, ongoing commitment. ‘We’ve always believed in the power of play to bring people together. ‘Beyond the social, mental and physical benefits of play, there is something incredibly rewarding about watching children simply being themselves. For our teams, that joy becomes more meaningful when working with children for whom play does not always come easily. Creating an environment that feels softer, gentler and truly safe, allows them the freedom to relax, engage and enjoy play their own way. ‘This is not a once-off involvement,’ Poulton adds. ‘It’s about creating inclusivity into how we think about play, design our spaces and engage with every family who walks through our doors feels genuinely special.”

May 1, 2026

Pocket-Sized Reassurance for Life’s Unexpected Moments

Panado® knows that pain and fever in children never happen in just one place and often start without warning. You can schedule playdates, swimming lessons and dentist appointments, but you cannot schedule pain and fever. You can colour code the calendar and set reminders on your phone, but you cannot predict when pain and fever will strike. One minute, your child is perfectly fine, racing around the playground or chasing butterflies in the park. The next, they are flushed, clingy and telling you something hurts. Many children will experience cold and flu symptoms, fevers, teething, toothache, and the odd sore throat, yet they can still catch you off guard. While you cannot prevent every virus or growing pain, you can control how prepared you are when pain and fever show up with Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets.1 Designed for real-life parenting moments, each sachet contains a single 5 ml dose of Panado® Strawberry Syrup, powered by paracetamol, an ingredient with more than 150 years of clinical experience2. The sachets are sealed, hygienic, compact and easy to store or carry, making them perfect for travel and everyday outings. Containing the same trusted3 formulation, strength and berry nice flavour parents know, Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets are ready to work immediately4 and are suitable for babies and children from three months and older. When needed, you tear or cut it open, measure the correct dose using a syringe or medicine measure, administer it and discard any remaining liquid. To support safe and accurate use, dosage is calculated according to a child’s age and weight. Parents can check the Panado® dosage calculator at panado.co.za/dosage-calculator, or scan the QR code for guidance. This helps take the guesswork out of dosing and gives extra peace of mind. The medicine cabinet Your medicine cabinet is often the first place you turn when your child feels unwell. Keeping Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets1 there means you are prepared without scrambling through drawers in the middle of the night. The nappy bag The humble nappy bag holds wipes, nappies, snacks, toys and at least three things you forgot were in there. Toss in a few Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets1, and you’re set for unexpected temperature spikes on the go. Handbags and pockets As children grow, the nappy bag fades, but life’s curveballs don’t. Slip a slim Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachet1 into your handbag – or pocket on hectic days – in case your little one feels under the weather when you’re out and about. The cubby hole A lot of your week plays out in the car, from school drop-offs and drives to friends, to quick dashes to the shops, and everything else in between. Stash Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets1 in the cubby for instant access. The first aid kit Whether for trips, sleepovers, or school outings, your first aid kit already has plasters, antiseptics, and bandages. Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets1 round it out perfectly for pain and fever relief. Children will have days when they don’t feel their best. You cannot prevent each one, but you can be ready for them. Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets1 help parents slip a little reassurance into the places you use every day so wherever life takes you and your child, trusted3 pain and fever relief travels with you. Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets sit alongside the wider Panado® paediatric range, which includes Panado® Strawberry Syrup1, Panado® Peppermint5, suitable from Day 1 and Panado® Infant Drops6. Panado® Infant Drops were named a Product of the Year 2025 winner in the Child Health category7, based on votes from 2,000 South African consumers in a Kantar survey. Panado® products are available from Baby City, Pick n Pay, Checkers including Hypers, Shoprite, Clicks, Dis-Chem and independent pharmacies. For more information, visit: https://panado.co.za/ and join the conversations on Facebook. For references and legal disclaimers, visit https://panado.co.za/references. Approval ticket #03.20261000005039. March 2026.

May 1, 2026

How to raise a problem solver

Are you as worried as I am about the children of the new generations and their ability to solve problems? With the increase in the number of helicopter parents (parents who “swoop” in to make everything all better) and a generation of highly sensitive kids, how well are our children going to be able to identify and solve their own problems? This isn’t actually a new problem but it seems to be getting worse. Many years ago I taught college courses part time and it was back then that I noticed an increase in the number of parents coming to see me during my office hours, complaining about the grade I gave their young adult child. Instructors today tell me it’s gotten even worse, with some parents even popping in to see the class for themselves. Making the commitment to raising your children to become problem solvers first requires that you accept the fact that every problem can only have one owner. That person must be held responsible for solving the problem but can certainly seek out and incorporate help from others around him or her to solve the problem. If your teenager puts a dent in the family car, she owns that dent. She may obviously need help in getting it fixed, but she still owns it. To begin with, every time your child or teen comes to you with a problem, you must first determine yourself whether your child owns the problem or you own the problem. If you own the problem, take immediate measures to solve it quickly. If your child owns the problem, be ready to help him or her solve the problem. The following incident is an example to learn by. My son came running into the house one Saturday, holding his arm and complaining about a small abrasion from a fall he took out in the yard. A quick examination of the boo-boo and a few questions left me feeling confident that there was no internal damage and there really wasn’t any blood that I could see. Because I did not feel that there was anything I needed to do that my child couldn’t do for himself, it became his problem to fix. I first acknowledged that the minor scrape was a problem for him by saying to him, “It looks like your arm might hurt.” He nodded. I then helped him begin problem solving by saying to him, “What do you think you could do to make that arm feel better?” My coaching him to solve the problem felt uncomfortable to him so he said, “You’re my Dad, YOU do something.” I replied with, “You’re right, I am your Dad and I’ve always done things in the past, but this time, I want to know what YOU think you can do to make that arm stop hurting.” Instantly, my son said to me, “Can we wash it off and put a bandage on it?” I replied with a smile, “What a great idea! I could help by getting the box of bandages down from the cabinet for you.” Within a matter of minutes and of course, with some “Ouches!” he washed the boo-boo and applied the bandage, and off he ran to continue his play outside. Today that young man is in his early 20s and solving problems every day as a much sought after restaurant manager! Let your children and teens solve their own problems with your guidance and coaching, while you’re nearby to help them do it. What problems will YOU begin letting your child solve on his or her own today?

April 30, 2026

Kids Behaving Badly When Mom’s In Charge

First of all, it’s not just moms. It seems to be whoever the female primary caregiver is; grandmothers, stepmoms, foster moms, adoptive moms and others. Believe it or not, when you learn what causes this, you may feel delighted that it happens to you. Here’s a typical scenario; the kids are home with mom and she begins finding it difficult to get their cooperation. Meltdowns are occurring and someone’s having a fit. Suddenly, dad arrives and the mood of the kids changes instantly. They run to greet him at the door and seem delighted to see him. He even gives them some instructions and they seem to comply. Immediately, his wife feels resentful that they are suddenly behaving completely different than they were just moments before he walked into the house. The meltdowns have subsided and the tantrums have disappeared. She may even be feeling angry toward him for suddenly getting smiles, laughter and cooperation. I’ve even witnessed this transition in reverse. The setting is the preschool classroom in which the child is playing contently or cooperating with the teacher. Then, mom arrives to pick up her child from school and the child runs to greet mom. She’s distracted on her cell phone or begins conversing with the teachers, and in an instant, the child throws himself down on the floor and a tantrum begins. The mystery around this behavior change has to do with the effect the mother, or the primary female caregiver, has on her child at the moment. Her presence creates an atmosphere of comfort and safety that is conducive to the child revealing the true emotions they may be feeling at the moment. In other words, the child feels safe enough to share what they are feeling deep inside. Unfortunately, few moms know this and mistakenly take the child’s actions, words or behaviors personal. She then gets sucked into the emotions the child is feeling and soon power struggles and arguments get triggered as she attempts to get her needs met in the moment. An important solution to this frustrating problem was offered in the famous book by author and speaker Stephen R. Covey, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, and then later, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families. The 5th habit is to seek first to understand, then be understood. In other words, if you desire cooperation from your child in a moment when it appears you’re not going to get it, take the time to see the moment from the child’s perspective. Through your own silence, observation and open ended questions, determine what your child needs in the moment and satisfy them.

April 30, 2026

Help your toddler survive your divorce

Divorce is unpleasant, emotional and can be a downright hurtful experience. The problem is that we sometimes forget that we aren’t the only ones experiencing this pain. Often our children suffer an unnecessary degree of hurt as a result of our incompatibility with our chosen partner… Some tips: Consistency This is a watchword for the divorcing parent! With toddlers, parents must be mindful of the need for consistency in the child’s life. This is not the time to drag them from house to house. If at all possible, they should stay in familiar surroundings with the noncustodial parent visiting there. Communication At this age, the toddler understands more than they are often given credit for. They can comprehend that one parent has left the home, but not understand why. At this age, their concept of time is also arbitrary. Your child may ask you when they are going to see their daddy, or why their daddy isn’t here anymore. No matter how many times you have to give them the answers, don’t get frustrated with them, as their world is very confusing at this time. This ties back into consistency, as you become their source of understanding and answers. Conflict If you have to argue or “debate passionately”, make sure to do it in a way that doesn’t cause your child undue fear or concern. Remember, you are the adults in this situation and you have a responsibility to your child, to reduce as much harm as this separation is causing, as possible. Behaviour Toddlers often test their boundaries by saying “No” to adults or testing limits, such as hitting or throwing. This behaviour and acting out can increase during the divorce process as a result of confused boundaries and definitions in the family environment. Toddlers need clear, consistent rules (back to consistency!) that are enforced in a loving way. Empathy Toddlers don’t have a very developed sense of empathy and tend to be concerned primarily with how their own needs are to be met. In the event of divorce, their sense of security becomes more self-oriented and their concern is about whether or not they will be secure, if they will be loved and nourished. Emotions As your toddler becomes more aware of their own feelings, they learn to express them through words and play. As tensions increase in the household due to impending divorce, they may become more reactive. Strong feelings are hard for them to manage and moderate. Don’t forget to let them know that its ok to feel them, but remember to help them manage the intensity by proper displays of your own emotional state, as well as appropriate levels of affection and understanding towards your child. Why do divorce rates increase? There are several reasons that have been put forward as to why there could be an increase in the number of divorces being seen. Here are just a few! Time of year There is a commonly recognised trend that causes a spike in divorce numbers around January and February. The assumption here is that partners who are already discontent often reach a decisive point after having to spend prolonged holidays with their partners over the festive season. This seems to galvanise many into initiating divorce proceedings in the New Year. Empowerment With the increase in awareness of rights according to the constitution of South Africa, more women have become more empowered and are less likely to remain in abusive or undesirable relationships. In the past, many women would remain in unhappy relationships as they felt that they did not have another option, but in current times, a better degree of knowledge and understanding of women’s’ rights could be contributing to the rise of divorce. No-fault divorce South African law provides for no-fault divorce based on the “irretrievable breakdown” of the marital relationship. Couples no longer need to prove that one person is at fault. They can simply say that the marriage relationship has broken down. In essence, it has become much easier to secure a divorce on clear and available legal grounds, with less procedure than in the past. Traditional roles In the past, traditional roles played a strong part in maintaining the marital unit. Partners did not question their lot in the marriage as openly and as a result, there was less open conflict. This is not to say that there was more happiness, merely less interpersonal disagreement. With the blurring of the definition of these roles, there is a rise in open disagreement, ending too often in divorce. Greater social acceptance In certain cultural groups in South Africa, divorce has long held an extremely shameful cloud over the divorcee, especially for the former wife. This has resulted in shunning and community abandonment, which served to discourage others from initiating proceedings. The more accepting the societies become of the concept; the more individuals are willing to pursue it as a route out of an undesirable marriage. Less guilt It is not uncommon these days for couples to wait 10 years before having children. As a result, many do not feel the same degree of guilt over “breaking up” the family unit, or over causing children distress. The disclaimer “at least there aren’t kids involved” can be heard echoing through the divorce courts.

April 29, 2026

Why do children lie?

The question of why children lie begs the greater question of why any of us lie. If you think back to the last time you lied (and I’ll bet my life you can think of a time), look at what was going on internally and this will give you a good idea of why your children do it and how to avoid it in future. Now before we get to that, let me just say that we all have all traits. We are all liars sometimes and every one of us will be pushed to lie under certain circumstances. So firstly, please never label your child as a liar. Once we apply a label to a child they are more likely (not less) to repeat this behaviour and to incorporate it into their sense of self as they grow up. ALL children lie sometimes (as do ALL adults). Ok, so it’s normal to lie sometimes, but why, and why do some lie more often? Going back to why we all do, lying is a fear-based behaviour. The child believes, for whatever reason, that if they tell the truth it will result in more pain than pleasure. And where do they get this message? From us, of course. We’re constantly giving kids unconscious messages that telling the truth will get you in trouble. “Who ate the sweets?” “I did” “Right, go to your room”. Sound familiar? What we need to get into the habit of doing is praising truth-telling and taking responsibility more than we punish “bad” behaviour. If our children own up and say that they “did it” we should be actively praising this behaviour and pointing out that while the behaviour is not ok with us, we’re really impressed that they told the truth. Children will only lie if they are afraid of our reaction to the truth. I know that many people worry that if they take this approach they will be too soft on the bad behaviour and will end up with unruly kids. One of the fundamental structures for well-behaved, compliant children is being their primary attachment (which implies complete trust, openness and closeness). If your children trust you completely and feel connected to you and loved no matter what they do they will actually be less likely to produce so called “bad” behaviours in the long run. Of course they will make mistakes along the way and present “negative” traits (like we all do) including lying, but this will not develop into any kind of delinquency if that adult-child connection is in place. And part of keeping it in place is keeping the lines of communication open and allowing your children to tell the truth and know they will be safe. I think this is a fundamental skill to work on when your children are little and to instil a sense of open communication and acceptance BEFORE they become teenagers. Once our kids hit the teen years, if we’ve shut off honest communication, we are in for a different level of trouble with our children lying to us about things that can be life threatening, or where they really could use our adult help and guidance. The next time your child lies to you think about why they would be afraid to tell the truth and then instead of punishing them for lying, rather address the rift in your relationship.

April 27, 2026

How To Be Angry Without Destroying Your Kids’ Self-Confidence

All too often I hear parents trying to repress their anger around their kids. Now this is not only unhealthy for you (repressed emotions actually create illness within the body) but it is also not great for your kids to grow up believing that some emotions are simply not ok to have. All emotions are a part of our human journey, and are messages from our unconscious mind regarding things we need to pay attention to or change in our lives. Having said that, it is also worth noting that telling your child that THEY are making YOU angry, sad, irritated (or even happy) is simply too much responsibility to place on another human being, particularly a little one! No one can MAKE you anything. Think about squeezing an orange. What comes out? I’m hoping that you’re saying “orange juice”! Not guava juice or pear juice or cherry flavoured Coca-Cola! Why? Because you only get out what is already within. So if your kids are pushing your buttons and there’s anger coming out, well then that’s what is within. Take responsibility for your own emotions. Own them – they’re yours. However, this does not mean that you are not allowed to experience these emotions, and even experience them very strongly in the presence of your children. So how do we express strong negative emotions without damaging our kids and making them feel responsible for us and our emotional state? How do we teach them to take responsibility for THEIR own emotions and not blame you or their siblings or teachers or life for how it is that THEY are feeling? It all starts with the little one-letter word “I”. “I am feeling soooo angry right now”, “I am feeling more and more and more irritated, so irritated that I could just scream”, “I am feeling ridiculously happy, like the luckiest person in the world”. As opposed to: “You are making me very angry”, “You are irritating me”, “You make your mom sooo happy”. Can you see the difference? And these can be said with as much emotion or volume as you feel is appropriate. You can even step it up in ways that they can relate to and that gives them some warning about where you’re at… “I am about as angry as a pea right now… Now I’m as angry as a small cat… AND NOW I’M AS ANGRY AS A LARGE ELEPHANT!!!” They will get the message. They will learn when to step away. They will learn how to experience strong emotional states themselves without lashing out at others. What they won’t learn is to take responsibility for you. What they won’t learn is to blame. What they won’t learn is to beat themselves up for your inner state. This builds emotional maturity, responsibility and self-confidence. All emotions are ok, but how we choose to express them is what makes the biggest difference.

April 27, 2026

Why is everyone sick right now? How to protect yourself before winter peaks

If it feels like everyone around you is coughing, sneezing or battling the same stubborn flu, you are not imagining it. As temperatures begin to drop across South Africa, respiratory illnesses start to circulate more widely, with workplaces, schools and households across the country quickly feeling the impact. “While many people think of flu as a routine seasonal illness, it can lead to serious complications, particularly for those with underlying conditions or weakened immune systems,” explains Dr Themba Hadebe, Clinical Executive at Bonitas Medical Fund. “Vaccination and proactive health habits help reduce both the severity of infection and the likelihood of hospitalisation.” The flu vaccine does not eliminate the possibility of getting influenza entirely. However, it significantly lowers the risk of developing severe illness and complications. For many people, the vaccine can also shorten the duration of illness and reduce the intensity of symptoms if they do become infected. Healthcare professionals generally recommend getting the flu shot before the winter peak that is coming up soon in South Africa, so that the body has time to build immunity. Many medical schemes also make it easier for members to access flu vaccinations through their healthcare networks. For example, Bonitas Medical Fund covers one flu vaccine per beneficiary each year through its preventative benefits across all options, subject to Scheme rates. Members can receive the vaccine through network pharmacies or healthcare providers, although it is advisable to call ahead to confirm stock availability and, where possible, schedule an appointment to reduce waiting times. Who should get the flu vaccine? While most people can benefit from vaccination, certain groups face a higher risk of severe illness and are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated. These include healthcare workers who are in contact with patients on a daily basis, people over the age of 65 and individuals with cardiovascular diseases, including chronic heart disease, hypertension or a history of stroke. People with chronic conditions such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease or chronic lung diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease should also consider flu vaccines, as should pregnant women and people living with HIV/AIDS. Children can also receive the vaccine. Schools and early childhood centres are often environments where respiratory viruses spread quickly, as children may not yet have fully developed hygiene habits. The flu vaccine is widely used and considered safe for most children older than six months. “While children often recover well from seasonal flu, they can still experience severe symptoms and are also key spreaders of infection within families,” Themba explains. “Vaccination helps reduce the risk of serious illness and can also limit how easily the virus spreads to siblings, parents and grandparents.” Parents should always speak to a healthcare professional if they are unsure whether vaccination is appropriate for their child, particularly if the child has underlying health conditions or allergies. Who should avoid it? Although the flu vaccine is safe for most people, it is not recommended for certain groups. This includes individuals with severe allergies to eggs or egg proteins, as many flu vaccines are produced using chicken eggs. Infants younger than six months should not receive the vaccine, as it is not licensed for that age group. People who previously experienced a severe reaction to a flu vaccine should consult a healthcare professional before considering another dose. It is also advisable to delay vaccination if someone is already experiencing active flu symptoms. Strengthening your immune system before winter Vaccination is only one part of staying healthy during winter. Lifestyle factors play an important role in maintaining a strong immune response. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains helps supply the nutrients the body needs to fight infection. Adequate sleep is equally important, as poor sleep weakens immune function and increases vulnerability to illness, as is regular physical activity. “Taking proactive steps before winter fully sets in can protect not only individuals but entire communities,” says Hadebe. “Prevention remains one of the most effective tools we have when it comes to respiratory health.”

April 24, 2026

Tips for Breastfeeding in Public: Confidence and Comfort

Breastfeeding is a natural and healthy way to feed your baby, but doing so in public can be a daunting experience for many mothers. Concerns about privacy, societal judgment, and personal comfort can create anxiety, making it challenging to breastfeed confidently outside the home. This article provides tips to help breastfeeding mothers in South Africa feel more comfortable and confident when breastfeeding in public, ensuring a positive experience for both mother and baby. Understanding Your Rights Before diving into practical tips, it’s essential to understand your legal rights regarding breastfeeding in public. In South Africa, the law protects the right to breastfeed in public spaces. According to the South African Department of Health, mothers are encouraged to breastfeed their children wherever and whenever needed. Knowing and understanding these rights can empower you and reduce anxiety about potential confrontations or negative reactions. Choose Comfortable Clothing One of the most practical steps to increase comfort while breastfeeding in public is choosing the right clothing. There are several options designed to make breastfeeding easier and more discreet: Nursing Tops and Dresses: These garments have hidden openings or panels that allow easy access for breastfeeding without exposing too much skin. Button-Down Shirts: These provide quick access to the breast and can be paired with a nursing bra for additional convenience. Nursing Bras: These bras have cups that can be easily unclipped and folded down, making breastfeeding more straightforward and comfortable. Choosing clothing that you feel comfortable and confident in can significantly impact your breastfeeding experience in public. Practice at Home Practicing breastfeeding at home can help you feel more confident when you need to do it in public. Find a comfortable position and practice using any nursing covers or specific clothing items you plan to wear outside. This practice can help you become more adept at handling your baby and adjusting your clothing discreetly. Use a Nursing Cover or Blanket If you prefer more privacy while breastfeeding in public, a nursing cover or blanket can be helpful. These covers are designed to drape over your shoulder and provide a barrier between you and the public. Some nursing covers even have adjustable necklines, allowing you to maintain eye contact with your baby while ensuring privacy. While nursing covers can provide a sense of security, it’s important to remember that they are not necessary for everyone. Some mothers and babies find them uncomfortable or restrictive. Choose what works best for you and your baby. Find a Comfortable Spot When breastfeeding in public, finding a comfortable and relatively private spot can make the experience more enjoyable. Many public places now offer designated nursing rooms or areas specifically designed for breastfeeding mothers. If these are not available, look for quieter, less crowded spots where you can sit comfortably. Some places to consider include: Cafes or Restaurants: Many establishments are breastfeeding-friendly and may have a quiet corner where you can nurse your baby. Parks: A bench under a tree can provide a peaceful spot for breastfeeding. Stores with Fitting Rooms: These can offer privacy if you feel uncomfortable breastfeeding in a more open area. Responding to Public Reactions Despite the increasing acceptance of breastfeeding in public, you may still encounter negative reactions or comments. Knowing how to respond can help you stay confident and calm. Here are some tips: Stay Calm and Polite: If someone confronts you, respond calmly and politely. You can inform them that you have the legal right to breastfeed in public. Focus on Your Baby: Remember that your baby’s needs come first. If you encounter negativity, focus on your baby and try not to let it affect your confidence. Have a Response Ready: Prepare a simple, respectful response in case someone comments on your breastfeeding. Something like, “I’m just feeding my baby. Thank you for understanding,” can be effective. Build a Support Network Having a support network can significantly boost your confidence when breastfeeding in public. Connect with other breastfeeding mothers through local support groups, online forums, or social media. Sharing experiences, tips, and encouragement with others who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly empowering. Educate Yourself and Others Education plays a crucial role in normalising breastfeeding in public. The more informed you are about the benefits of breastfeeding and your rights, the more confident you will feel. Additionally, by educating those around you, you can help create a more supportive environment. Share Information: Share articles, research, and personal stories about breastfeeding with family and friends to help them understand its importance. Advocate for Breastfeeding-Friendly Spaces: Encourage local businesses and public spaces to provide designated breastfeeding areas and support breastfeeding mothers. Use Distraction Techniques If your baby is easily distracted by the environment when breastfeeding in public, consider using distraction techniques to keep them focused. Some strategies include: Maintaining Eye Contact: Making eye contact with your baby can help them stay focused on breastfeeding. Covering Your Baby’s Head: A lightweight blanket or nursing cover can block out visual distractions and help your baby concentrate on feeding. Stay Hydrated and Nourished Breastfeeding can be physically demanding, so it’s essential to stay hydrated and well-nourished. Carry a water bottle and healthy snacks with you when you go out. Staying hydrated and maintaining your energy levels will help you feel better and more confident while breastfeeding in public. Practice Self-Care Finally, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Being a new mother can be overwhelming, and it’s important to prioritise self-care. Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge, whether it’s taking a walk, reading a book, or spending time with loved ones. The more relaxed and confident you feel, the more comfortable you’ll be breastfeeding in public. Conclusion Breastfeeding in public can be a positive and empowering experience with the right preparation and mindset. By understanding your rights, choosing comfortable clothing, practicing at home, and finding supportive environments, you can build the confidence needed to nurse your baby wherever you go. Remember that breastfeeding is a natural and essential part of motherhood,

April 24, 2026

How Safe Are Teething Gels?

Every baby is different but common symptoms associated with teething include, mild irritability, drooling, low-grade fever and loss of appetite. If your baby is inconsolable or has a high fever chances are this is not due to teething. Teething should not make your baby very sick but rather very unhappy.

April 24, 2026

What the Latest Research Actually Says About Screens and Your Child’s Brain

Parents everywhere are trying to navigate screens with as much intention as possible, and often with a fair amount of guilt. A wave of new research has added fuel to the conversation, including a large 2025 study tracking over 10,000 children with brain scans, which found that higher screen time in middle childhood was associated with subtle changes in the brain regions involved in attention and self-regulation. 1 The effects were real but small, and the researchers are clear that they’ve found an association, not proof of cause and effect. So, what does the fuller picture actually tell us? It’s Not Just One Study A longitudinal study from A*STAR in Singapore found that high screen use before age two was linked to premature brain-network specialisation, slower decision-making at eight, and higher anxiety at thirteen, but screen time at ages three and four didn’t show the same effects, suggesting infancy is a uniquely sensitive window.2 A Karolinska Institute study tracking over 8,000 children found that social media use specifically was associated with growing inattention over four years, while TV and video games were not.3 And a meta-analysis of over 81,000 children found that those with more than two hours of daily screen time were significantly more likely to show attention-related difficulties.4 Content Matters More Than the Clock A 2025 study of over 41,000 children in Shenzhen found that the type of content matters far more than the clock. Passive screen use (cartoons, educational videos, autoplay) was linked to increasing attention difficulties the more children watched. But interactive content that required children to respond, make choices and think showed no such link, even at higher levels of use.5 This is the most empowering finding in the research: a child building in Minecraft is doing something fundamentally different from a child watching autoplay. The question isn’t just how long, but what is the screen asking my child’s brain to do? What Should Parents Do? The research doesn’t support panic. Effect sizes are small at the individual level. But it does support thoughtfulness: Prioritise interactive over passive. Apps and games that require thinking carry less risk than scrolling and autoplay.5 Take social media seriously. Of all screen types, social media is the one most consistently linked to growing concentration difficulties over time, and that finding held up regardless of a child’s background or starting point.3 Protect off-screen experiences. Executive function is built when children wait their turn, tolerate boredom and navigate friendships. Screens become a problem when they replace these moments. Read together. The Singapore team found that parent-child reading at age three significantly buffered the brain-network effects of earlier screen exposure.6 It’s never too late to add connection. Hold boundaries kindly. Children’s developing brains aren’t equipped to self-regulate screen use. A boundary isn’t a punishment — it’s space for the slow work of growing up. Dalza is a care coordination platform for children with learning differences, helping families connect the dots between school, therapy and home. Learn more at dalza.com. References 1. Shou, Q., Yamashita, M., & Mizuno, Y. (2025). Translational Psychiatry, 15, 447. 2. Huang Pei et al. (2025). Neurobehavioural Links from Infant Screen Time to Anxiety. A*STAR, Singapore. 3. Nivins, S. et al. (2025). Pediatrics Open Science, 2(1), 1–10. 4. Liu, H. et al. (2023). Reviews on Environmental Health, 39(4), 643–650. 5. Wu, J-B. et al. (2025). PLoS ONE, 20(4), e0312654. 6. Screen time, brain network development and socio-emotional competence. Psychological Medicine (2024).

April 23, 2026

Kangaroo care and its benefits

You may have heard the terms “skin-to-skin” or “kangaroo care” when it comes to interacting with a newborn baby. It refers to the amazing benefits that have been found when a mother has the opportunity to place their newborn baby skin-to-skin straight after birth. It also refers to skin-to-skin contact during the newborn phase from both mother and father. Of course, birth can be an unpredictable time – and that includes the need for doctors or nurses to have to handle your baby immediately after birth for medical reasons or for the baby to be placed in an incubator. If these things occur, skin-to-skin does not have an expiry date when it comes to your baby and can take place as soon as it is medically safe to. Here are just some of the scientifically proven benefits of kangaroo care: Skin-to-skin contact helps regulate a baby’s temperature. When mom/dad and baby are skin to skin, the parent’s chest temperature adjusts to warm up a cool baby, or cool down a too-warm baby. This phenomenon is called “thermal synchrony.” Skin-to-skin contact increases the paternal bond. One study followed mothers and babies who experienced skin-to-skin contact right after delivery compared to mothers who only viewed their child briefly immediately after birth. Days later the mothers who had skin-to-skin contact were shown to be more comfortable caring for and handling their babies. One year later those same mothers were found to touch, hold and interact with their children more. Skin-to-skin contact can help keep heart and breathing rates stable. Newborns panic when they are separated from their mother immediately after birth. That separation causes stress, which can increase both heart and breathing rates. Being skin to skin with their mother reduces stress and helps keep a baby’s heart rate and breathing normal. Babies cry less when they are skin to skin with their parent. Being close to their parents is natural for babies. Studies show that babies cry less when skin to skin with their mothers than babies who have been separated from mom. Human touch is an integral part of brain development. Touch and movement have been shown to be the basic building blocks for brain and social development. Early skin-to-skin contact helps to set a pattern for continued holding, carrying and touching. Moms who have early skin-to-skin contact breastfeed more and longer. When babies are placed skin-to-skin on their mother after delivery, research has shown that they follow a series of steps to familiarise themselves with their mother, eventually making their way to the breast on their own to begin breastfeeding. The research results are so strong, in fact, that the American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends that immediately after delivery all healthy infants be placed in direct skin-to-skin contact with their mothers as soon as possible and at least for the first hour. How to Hold Your Baby Skin to Skin: Find some good times throughout the day when skin-to-skin works best for you, your baby, and your partner. This might be during feedings (whether by breast or bottle), right before a bath, or just before putting pyjamas on for bedtime. Place your baby in a nappy only. Moms remove your bra. Hold your baby directly against your bare chest. Make sure your baby’s head is turned to the side, so he or she can easily breathe, and hold your baby close enough for you to kiss the top of their head. Your body will keep them warm. It’s fine to drape a thin blanket over your baby’s back. All you need to do after that is sit quietly and enjoy being close and together.

April 23, 2026

Panado® Proudly Launches Berry Nice 5 ml Sachets to Make Life Easier For Parents On-the-Go

Panado® is the trusted1 name parents reach for when they need the power to fight their little one’s pain and fever. But as any parent knows, pain and fever never arrive at a convenient time. A fever can spike halfway through a long car trip or teething pain can creep in during a weekend away. A sore ear can appear mid-grocery shop or on the taxi ride home. And a sore throat? It always seems to show up just before bedtime at Gogo’s house. That’s where Panado®’s newest offering – Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets2 – fit neatly into real life with children. Ready to work immediately,3 gentle on stomachs4 and made for those unexpected moments when parents need pain and fever relief. Your perfect backup for life’s little surprises Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets2 offer on-the-go pocket power for parents and are compact, easy to store, and ideal for travel. Whether tucked into your pocket, a handbag, nappy bag, backpack or car console, they’re a practical solution when families are out and about. Easily accessible, they offer a solution for unexpected pain or fever emergencies. Small enough to carry, pain & fever relief when you need it most Suitable for babies and children from three months and older2, each sachet contains a single 5 ml dose of Panado® Strawberry Syrup2, powered by paracetamol, which has over 150 years of clinical experience5. There’s no bulky bottle to pack and no messy spills to deal with. Parents simply tear open the sachet, administer the right dosage using a medicine measure or syringe, and toss what’s left once the correct dose has been given. No mess. No stress. Just pain and fever relief. Dosage is calculated according to a child’s age and weight, and parents can check the Panado® dosage calculator at panado.co.za/dosage-calculator, or scan the QR code. This extra step helps ensure the right dose every time. Big relief in one tiny sachet The Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets2 contain the same trusted2 formulation, strength and berry nice flavour parents are familiar with, ready to work immediately3 when pain or fever strikes. Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets1 complement the existing Panado® paediatric range, which includes Panado® Strawberry Syrup2, Panado® Peppermint6 with improved taste7 and Panado® Infant Drops8, recognised as a Product of the Year 2025 winner, voted for by 2,000 South African consumers in a Kantar survey and awarded in the Child – Health category.9 Parents trust1 Panado® to bring comfort when it matters most, helping your little one settle, feel better and get back to being their happy, playful self, wherever the day takes you. Panado® products are available from Baby City, Pick n Pay, Checkers including Hypers, Shoprite, Clicks, Dis-Chem and independent pharmacies. For more information, visit: https://panado.co.za/ and join the conversations on Facebook. For references and legal disclaimers, visit https://panado.co.za/references. Approval ticket #02.20261000004801. February 2026.

April 22, 2026

Top ways to balance work and parenting

We all know that parenting can be a delicate juggling act at the best of times. Whether it is organising day-care, scheduling doctor appointments, making sure they are getting their five a day – being a parent is a lot to handle and think about. Throw a career into the mix, and often balls can start dropping. Here are five ways to not only help you manage your time but make sure that both your children and your job get the attention they need. Switch off This advice comes from some of the most successful business people in the world. Segment your time. When you are at work, focus solely on the tasks at hand. With that level of focus and concentration, you will be able to do your job more efficiently. The same applies at home. Make sure you switch off your work notifications when possible. Give your children and yourself the attention you all deserve when it is time to do so. Schedule This is a biggie! The more organised you are, the more time you have. For your children, for your job, to grab a coffee with a friend. There are many apps you can download to help you manage your and your families’ schedules. Some of them can even be shared amongst family members, so everyone that needs to can lend a hand. Make sure you have all the info you need at the touch of a button. Dentist appointments, Toptots classes, grocery lists and more. Knowing everything that needs to be done is one step closer to getting everything you need done! Prep time Most working parents swear by this. Whether packing lunches the night before or taking a few hours on a Sunday to meal prep for the week – using the time you have to give you breathing room during the crazy periods (AKA, bath and dinner time) is a smart use of time. Again, there are many online tools to assist you in things like meal prepping – use them to give you a helping hand. Time for you A burnt-out parent is not going to have the energy and capability to get anything done. Never mind spending quality time with their children. It is essential that you put yourself on the top of your ‘take care of’ list. Make sure you schedule time to do things you love, see friends and family and look after yourself. Happy parents make happy children. Delegate You don’t need to do it all yourself. Everyone needs help, whether it be from a partner, parent or friend. There are always people around that are willing to lend a hand; you just need to reach out to them. Learning to let go of tasks, delegate responsibilities and ask for help with help to ease your load to focus on the things that matter – yourself and your children! Toptots Early Learning SA

April 22, 2026

Help! My Kids Won’t Stop Fighting!

Parents generally see their children as wonderful gifts from the heavens but children don’t always see each other in that same light. They first see their primary caregivers, and the love and attention they get from them, as a limited commodity. They then see their siblings as competition for that love and attention and sometimes feel they have to fight for it. When a new child enters the family, the oldest or older children sometimes feel as if they have been dethroned and now have to share their parents with this new child. This can bring about feelings of animosity and jealousy between children. To deal with this problem effectively, parents can find ways that will allow the older child to become a teacher or leader to the younger child(ren). You can also give the older child special privileges and give them special time with you, such as one-on-one dates to help them feel like they haven’t lost their place in the family. Fighting and other forms of sibling rivalry also occur as a result of these feelings. Avoid racing into every little argument or disagreement. If you do, it will teach your children to create problems just to get you involved. It will also train them that they are NOT accountable for stopping fights and working things out, it teaches them instead that YOU are responsible for doing that. Because you ARE responsible for keeping everyone safe, sometimes the only solution is to just separate them. This is especially true for when toddlers and preschoolers hit one another or begin to fight. It just means they’ve had enough of that other person for a while and they want them out of their space. Avoid using punishments like time out and avoid taking sides. When a conflict breaks out, just separate both of them. It doesn’t matter who started it or who did what, just separate them in different spaces to be apart. And during this moment of behavior management, remain calm and talk very little. You can easily transfer your own negative feelings into the relationship between the children. Sometimes the conflict between the children is actually an imitation of what’s going on with the adults.

April 21, 2026

Body20 Cares Returns in 2026: Powering Hope for Children with Cancer

Sometimes, the greatest strength is found in unity. After raising over R150,000 in its inaugural year, Body20 is proud to relaunch its Body20 Cares initiative for 2026 — a campaign driven by compassion, community, and the belief that true wellness extends far beyond the studio floor. Body20 remains committed to ongoing support throughout 2026 and beyond, ensuring sustained impact for children with cancer and their families. From April to May 2026, 50% of all new members’ joining fees at Body20 studios nationwide will be donated to CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa. These funds don’t just support a cause—they wrap children and their families in hope at the very moment they need it most. Supporting CHOC means directly helping children facing cancer and their families find comfort and strength. “This initiative isn’t just an activity for us — it’s a lifeline,” says Philip Hughes, chief executive officer of Body20 Global. “Last year, we witnessed firsthand how small actions, multiplied by many, can create a wave of hope. As Body20 Cares returns, our mission is simple: uplift families, offer practical support, and remind every parent and child battling cancer that they are never alone.” Cancer today touches almost every family, casting long shadows of fear and uncertainty. In South Africa, around 1,000 children are diagnosed with cancer each year—though many more go undiagnosed, and each statistic represents a child, a parent, a story. Despite advances in treatment, a diagnosis brings a tidal wave of emotional, logistical, and financial challenges. Organisations like CHOC are lifelines, offering more than just accommodation—they provide comfort, dignity, and a sense of home when families need it most. “Partnerships like Body20 Cares help us deliver vital support to children and their families,” says Adri Ludick, interim CEO for CHOC. “Every contribution means a family can stay together, a child can rest in comfort, and no one must face this journey alone. Last year, funds from Body20 Cares kept our CHOC Houses open—safe havens like Diepkloof, which offered warmth, food, and daily support to up to 30 people at a time. When hospitals close their doors at night, CHOC keeps hope alive for families in crisis.” Body20 Cares is about more than fundraising—it’s about human connection and shared purpose. Every new member isn’t just prioritising their own wellness; they’re giving a child and parent one less worry, one more day together, and a little more hope. Your participation can help us build a community united by compassion and action. “This is where fitness meets purpose,” Hughes adds. “Every sign-up is more than a membership; it’s a lifeline for a child fighting cancer, and a message to families that they are seen, valued, and supported by a whole community.” As Body20 Cares enters its second year, we invite every South African to stand with us. Join as a member, donate, or spread the word—every action, big or small, has the power to change a life. Your support makes you an essential part of this movement, helping us turn compassion into tangible hope. In a world where time is scarce and health is priceless, Body20 brings together your two most valuable resources. With cutting-edge EMS technology, Body20 helps people transform their wellbeing in just 20 minutes a week. It’s a promise: you can prioritise your health, support your community, and still have time for what—and who—matters most. Powerful transformations don’t just happen in our bodies—they ripple out, touching families, communities, and futures. When we move with purpose, we move the world a little closer to hope. To join Body20 Cares, become a new member at any Body20 studio or donate directly. For information or to get involved, visit https://body20.co.za/body20-cares or contact [email protected] | 087 231 0359. #Body20 #CHOC #Body20Cares #Cancer #ChildrenWithCancer #Children

April 20, 2026

Are You Raising a Praise Junkie?

Extensive research has been done to show the amazing results of praise. It can motivate both adults and children to perform exceedingly well, but to do it for the goal of obtaining the praise, not for the joy of achieving or the pleasure of the activity. I first learned of the term ‘praise junkie’ when I read Nurture Shock (2009; Twelve), a book that offers new research-based thinking about children. The authors state that the use of praise is becoming the solution for modern-day parenting that caregivers offer to their children as a way of soothing the anxieties the children experience throughout their day. More and more parents seem to strive to “make things all better,” so that their children experience less stress. And over-praised children don’t grow up to be ‘unmotivated softies’ as some have claimed, but instead, researchers have found that they actually become more competitive and overly focused on tearing others down. So if praising our children is discouraged, what are we supposed to do? The answer lies in our response to our child’s accomplishment. Instead of making sure that every child receives a trophy, the key is in how we respond to our child individually. Instead of saying “I’m proud of you,” the most effective parental response is “What did YOU think of the game,“ or “Tell me all about the picture you drew.” But there is more to this story; allow me to explain. I’m often asked if praise is bad for children and my response has been that it has a time, a place and a season. I see certain types of praise being necessary in three specific situations: in teaching young, egocentric children learn new social skills (hygiene, chores, etc.), when working with some children with disorders (such as those on the Autism spectrum) and in situations for turning around unhealthy family relationships. In most of these types of situations however, there is a season. Eventually, the awarding of smiley faces on behaviour charts or rewards for accomplishing new tasks should stop. Eventually, many autistic children can move past the daily rewards for better cooperation at home and in the classroom as their development progresses. And if the work is done, unhealthy family relationships can be restored, leading to less praise and rewards. When praise is not or no longer needed, encouragement (as you indicated) is needed instead. Praise is one person’s judgment of another. Even the words “Good Job” or “Attaboy” are someone’s evaluation of another person’s creation or performance. Encouragement is the technique of having that creating or performing person to say “Good Job” with their own voice. It coaches them to step back and assess what they did, and make internal decisions such as: “Am I happy with what I created?” “Will I do it again?” “Do I love doing this” “Does it fulfil me?” “What will I do with what I created?” When my children were young, I made the switch to stop the praise and instead, use encouragement. I tried it, sort of as an experiment to see what would happen. When my children came up to me with a picture they had drawn or a castle they built and said to me, “Look Dad, look at my picture.” Instead of saying to them “Good Job,” I said “Wow, tell me all about it.” In that moment, they would describe what they had created and I would avoid providing my opinion. My job was to be there in that moment and listen. In the beginning, using this new response to whatever they wanted to show me, they would sometimes ask me, “What do you think Dad?” My response would always be, “I like it, but what do YOU think about it.” To wean them off the praise society and my parents taught me, I would always pass it back to them. Because what they thought of their own creation was more important than mine. Eventually, my children stopped asking me and stopped hanging their pictures on the refrigerator and instead, started hanging them on their bedroom walls or putting them in albums for them to enjoy. They stopped placing them in public places in hopes of obtaining good words from others. When report cards came home, instead of taking it and reading it, I would hand it back to them and say, “Read it to me.” They would then read off their grades and I would listen. Encouragement requires lots of eye contact, much facial expression and few words. After they had read their grades, I would ask them specific questions to bring out more about the report card, never once applying my opinion. I would ask questions like what grade were they most proud of and which grade might they change and why. If they expressed a desire to bring up one grade or another, I would coach them into coming up with ideas and in many cases, I would offer to help in some capacity, still never applying my opinion of them or their grades. Today I’m watching my three children live their lives according to what they enjoy and according to their own opinions of their accomplishments. They are not performing or creating for other people, they are doing what they love to do for the love of doing the act, not doing it to please others. I urge all parents to use more encouragement and less praise, every day!

April 20, 2026

Things We Don’t Always Say Out Loud

There’s a version of parenting a neurodivergent child that the world sees: the appointments, the assessments, the school meetings, the research done at odd hours. The way you’ve fought, politely, persistently, and sometimes desperately, to get your child seen and supported. And then there’s the version that is a little quieter. The thoughts and feelings that don’t always make it into conversation, not because they aren’t real, but because there hasn’t always been a space that felt safe enough to hold them. We don’t always say “this is a lot.” Not in a way that asks for pity – just honestly. Parenting any child is full-hearted work. Parenting a neurodivergent child often asks something extra on top of that: navigating waiting lists, decoding reports, understanding your rights under the SIAS policy, and advocating in spaces that weren’t always built with your child in mind. Research confirms what many parents already feel: raising a neurodivergent child comes with significantly higher levels of stress than most people (including well-meaning friends and family) tend to appreciate. Knowing that doesn’t make it easier, but it does mean you’re not imagining it. It really is a lot. We don’t always say “the judgement is exhausting.” Perhaps someone in your family has suggested your child just needs firmer boundaries. Perhaps a stranger in a shopping centre has given you a look. Perhaps you’ve heard, directly or indirectly, that this is somehow a reflection of your parenting. It isn’t. But carrying that, on top of everything else, takes a toll that rarely gets acknowledged. Many parents, particularly in communities where neurodivergence is still widely misunderstood, describe being blamed long before they receive any support. You deserved support from the beginning. You’re still standing, still advocating, still showing up, and that matters. We don’t always say “some days just feel like grief, and that’s okay.” Nobody talks about how you can be completely, unconditionally devoted to your child and still have days that feel like grief. Not grief for who they are, but for how hard the world makes it for them sometimes. For the energy it takes just to be understood. Researchers call this chronic sorrow: a quiet, recurring heaviness that visits in the gaps, not because of your child, but because of everything around them. It can exist right alongside deep joy, fierce pride, and a love that has genuinely changed who you are. These aren’t contradictions. They’re just the full picture and you’re allowed to hold all of it, without explanation. We don’t always say “I’m not sure I am getting it right.” Most parents of neurodivergent children become extraordinary advocates. They learn the systems, challenge the assumptions, build strategies from scratch. From the outside, it can look remarkably put-together. On the inside, there’s often a quieter voice asking: “am I doing enough?” and “Did I handle that well today?” That voice is not evidence of failure. It’s evidence of how deeply you care. The parents who ask those questions are almost always the ones showing up in exactly the ways that matter. We don’t always say “I need support too.” So much energy goes into finding the right support for your child — the right school, the right therapist, the right approach — that turning the same care toward yourself can feel almost indulgent. Like it’s not your turn yet. But your wellbeing is part of this. Not as an afterthought, but as something that genuinely matters, for you and for the family you’re holding together with so much love and effort. Saying “I need support too” is not a small thing. It might actually be one of the bravest. If you’ve recognised yourself somewhere in these words, that recognition is the whole point. There are more of us in this than you might realise, navigating the same uncharted territory, feeling the same mix of love and uncertainty, doing our best with enormous heart. We’re all in this together. And you are doing better than you think. Written by Dalza Dalza is a platform built by a parent who understands the realities of this journey. If you’d like to learn more, visit Dalza.com References: – Hayes, S. A., & Watson, S. L. (2013). The impact of parenting stress: A meta-analysis of studies comparing the experience of parenting stress in parents of children with and without autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 43 (3), 629–642. – Olsson, M. B., & Hwang, C. P. (2001). Depression in mothers and fathers of children with intellectual disability. Journal of Intellectual Disability Research, 45 (6), 535–543.

April 16, 2026

Terrific tea tree oil: Simple ways to incorporate this time-tested multitasker in everyday life

Tea tree oil is one of the most versatile natural ingredients, valued across cosmetics, personal care, household cleaning and even pet products. Commercially used for more than a century, its origins go back much further to the Indigenous communities of Australia, who long recognised its medicinal and cosmetic value. What is tea tree oil?Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil, is an essential oil obtained by steam-distilling the leaves of the tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia). Native to Australia, the plant thrives in the swampy, coastal regions of the southeast. For centuries, Aboriginal Australians used crushed tea tree leaves to release the oil, inhaling it or applying it to the skin to help relieve a variety of ailments. Today, tea tree oil is widely available in its pure essential oil form and is also commonly blended into skincare, personal care and household products. What are the benefits of tea tree oil? Tea tree oil is valued for its wide range of naturally active properties: What is tea tree oil used for? Thanks to its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil is a popular ingredient in topical skincare products as well as personal and household products. Common uses include: Tea tree oil can easily and safely be incorporated into your day-to-day life. When selecting tea tree oil products, choose items from reputable brands known for the quality of their ingredients. Essential oil SOiL is known as a leader in the manufacture of essential oils, and their Tea Tree Essential Oil is steam-distilled from the best quality leaves, resulting in a potent, organic oil that can be used for a variety of purposes. Remember to dilute tea tree essential oil with a carrier oil before applying it to your skin. Skincare Tea tree oil can be very effective in the fight against breakouts and blemishes, making it a popular choice for skincare that works to limit sebum production and remove bacteria from the skin. SKNLOGIC Clarify contains tea tree oil, salicylic acid, and witch hazel to calm inflammation, clear existing breakouts, and prevent new ones from forming. This treatment product can be applied twice daily after cleansing to help unclog pores and achieve a clearer complexion. Remove sebum, decongest and detoxify the skin and minimise pores with SKNLOGIC Charcoal Detox Masque. Together with tea tree oil and grapefruit extract, the activated charcoal deeply cleanses and purifies skin to minimise breakouts. Using tea tree soap or shower gel is a fantastic (and gentle!) way to remove germs from the body and keep skin clear and refreshed. SoyLites Glycerine Tea Tree Soap Bar is rich in antibacterial essential oils to keep skin clean and healthy. If you prefer a liquid soap, try SoyLites Tea Tree Liquid Soap, which is gentle on skin and tough on bacteria. The convenient pump bottle is handy for the shower, office or kitchen. Hair care Oily scalp, greasy hair or product build-up? Tea tree oil is an excellent haircare ingredient, particularly for cleansing and refreshing the scalp. Not only does it remove oil and impurities, but it also helps prevent dandruff, reduces itchiness and discomfort and balances the scalp’s oil production. Naturally Africa Hair & Scalp Oil is a natural blend of vitamin E, tea tree, castor, grape seed, coconut and sweet almond oil. The lightweight, non-greasy formula can be massaged into the hair and scalp to moisturise, add shine, heal and prevent split ends. For very dry hair, we recommend Naturally Africa Hair Food & Scalp Therapy. Infused with vegetable proteins, shea butter, castor oil and tea tree oil, it is intensely hydrating and can be applied every two weeks to give the hair and scalp an intensive moisture boost. It also helps to alleviate an itchy scalp. Home cleaning products Thanks to its disinfectant properties, tea tree oil is an excellent ingredient for household cleaning products. Not only does it effectively kill bacteria, but it is also safe to inhale, which is particularly important when you have children or pets. Earthsap offers a wide range of non-toxic, biodegradable, eco-friendly cleaning products, many of which utilise the power of tea tree oil. You don’t have to resort to harsh chemicals to keep your toilet seat germ-free.Earthsap Tea Tree Toilet Seat Sanitizer is a compact spray that kills germs and helps to keep your bathroom clean and hygienic. Using a natural formula that’s free of harsh synthetic chemicals, it can be used to limit your family’s exposure to germs and bacteria in public restrooms as well. Tea tree oil is a great ingredient for dishwashing liquid. Earthsap Tea Tree & Orange Dishwashing Liquid contains tea tree oil for its germ-fighting abilities. The formula is biodegradable, safe for waterways and a must-have for an eco-friendly household. Keep surfaces sparkling and germ-free with Earthsap Tea Tree & Orange All Purpose Cleaner, which quickly removes grease, grime, and bacteria without scratching or damaging surfaces. There’s a reason why tea tree oil has been trusted for more than a century. With its powerful antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, this multitasker is the perfect safe alternative to harsh chemical ingredients.

April 16, 2026

Smoking and pregnancy – should I quit

If you’re an avid smoker you’re probably wondering if being pregnant means you should wave your smoking habits goodbye. Unfortunately, even if your health isn’t enough for you to stop, your baby’s health should be. What can happen to my baby if I keep smoking? Smoking during your pregnancy is harmful to your unborn baby. The chemicals in cigarettes are both damaging to you and your baby; nicotine and other harmful poisons increase the risk of health problems for unborn babies. Second hand smoke, vaping and e-cigarettes are all still damaging to your baby’s health and should also be avoided (or quitted). You may need to designate your house a non-smoking area, and ask any friends and colleges not to smoke around you. So what exactly does smoking do to your unborn baby? Smoking lowers the amount of oxygen available to your growing baby and nicotine damages the baby’s brain and lungs. Smoking can make it harder to conceive, and if you do fall pregnant, can lead to miscarriages or stillbirth. Babies can be born premature, have a low birth weight, or be born with birth defects. Smoking during pregnancy can also affect your baby’s health after they are born, leading to cases of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, asthma and other respiratory problems and infections. Help – I am really struggling to quit! Even if you have decided that quitting is in both of your best interests, this may be easier said than done. If you are pregnant already it is best to quit without using any medication, as this is healthier for you and your baby. You also won’t be able to transition to vaping or e-cigarettes, as these too, are harmful and usually contain nicotine, which is damaging to health. In order to quit for good, try avoid the triggers that make you want to smoke, and try find something else that you can do when the craving kicks in. Get the support of your family and friends, or join a stop-smoking group or self help plan. Whatever your plan is to stop, you can be sure that both you and your child’s health will benefit from it.

April 15, 2026

What If My Child Won’t Take No for an Answer?

If you’ve said no firmly and you’re child is wearing you down, avoid doing what many parent do when they are tired and overworked; giving in just to stop the pleading and begging. Doing so might stop the noise that’s adding to your stress, but it will also teach your child to repeat this behaviour anytime they receive a NO from you (and others) in the future. BE FIRM, STAY CALM, AND REMAIN QUIET So let me get right to the punch on this question. If your child is asking for something you can’t or won’t give to them and they won’t stop drilling you for it, calmly tell them that you’re not willing to discuss this issue any further and remain completely quiet if they try to engage you further. Be ready and willing to talk to them about any other subject, just not this one. WHAT IF YOUR CHILD HITS YOU IN RESPONSE? If this occurs, the answer is to tell them firmly, “No one is allowed to hit me,” and remove yourself from your child’s access immediately. This means you must go to another place in the house to be away from your child in the moment. If this isn’t easy to do, do your best to remove yourself from your child. Do not hit your child back and avoid yelling or punishing them. Doing so will only reward your child by reacting. WHAT IF THE CHILD CAUSES PROPERTY DAMAGE? Some parents have reported that when they left the area to be away from their child, the child became so angry that they caused some damage to something in the house. While there is a risk that this could occur, it is better to have property damage then physical damage to you or your child. If their behaviour becomes this extreme in response to a no, you should consider seeking help immediately from your child’s paediatrician or a family therapist. OTHER IDEAS TO CONSIDER When your child asks for something and you know that your NO may cause a meltdown, guide your child to a calendar and set a date and time in which the two of you will sit down and discuss the request. They may not be happy with this response, but it will tell them that the door isn’t completely closed on their request. This is also a great technique if what they are asking for is big and you need more time to think about it or research their request, such as piercings, dating, cell phones, etc. Finally, try replacing the word NO with one of these two phrases: “I’m not willing ____________,” or “I’m not ready for you to ___________________.” They put the ownership on you and not on your child. It is also less likely that your child will feel less driven to change your NO into a YES by arguing. When you demonstrate power over your own “will,” or state that you’re NOT READY for them to do something, you don’t have to have a reason for it, or even a date as to when you’ll be ready. Simply tell them they can ask again to see if things have changed.

April 15, 2026

DermaFix Cosmeceutical Skin Care Expands Inclusive Sun Protection with Launch of Tinted SPF Dark

In a country where year-round sun exposure is a reality, daily SPF is non-negotiable. Yet for many South Africans with tanned to deeper skin tones, finding a sunscreen that protects without leaving a grey or ashy cast has long been a frustration. DermaFix Cosmeceutical Skin Care is addressing that gap with the launch of DermaFix Tinted SPF Dark 50ml, a deeper, expertly balanced shade developed specifically for Fitzpatrick IV–VI skin tones. “While melanin-rich skin has natural advantages, it remains vulnerable to UV damage, premature ageing and hyperpigmentation,” explains Ursula Volbrecht, spokesperson for DermaFix. “Tinted SPF Dark delivers broad-spectrum SPF40 protection against UVA, UVB and HEV which is blue light exposure, while blending seamlessly into the skin for a natural, even-toned finish.” More than just sun protection, Tinted SPF Dark reflects the growing demand for multi-functional skincare. The formula works as a sunscreen, light foundation and complexion enhancer in one; ideal for everyday wear, post-procedure protection, or effortless “no-makeup” makeup days. Importantly, the formulation remains gentle enough for sensitive and pigmentation-prone skin, helping defend against post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which is a common concern among South African consumers. As a dermatologically approved and clinically effective brand, DermaFix continues to advance targeted skincare solutions across anti-ageing, hyperpigmentation, acne and scarring categories. The introduction of Tinted SPF Dark is a welcome addition for darker skin tones in the medical-grade sun care category, and signals a commitment to innovation. DermaFix Tinted SPF Dark (50ml) retails at R437 and is available nationwide through dermatologists, doctors, skincare professionals and medi-spas, as well as online at www.dermafix.co.za.

April 14, 2026

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