Parenting - Parenting Hub

Advice from the experts

How to improve your Child’s Decision-Making skills

What is Decision-Making? Decision making is an invaluable skill, especially when your children start to make independent choices. It is an ability that benefits throughout their lives. More often, it will be their independent choices which will determine the course of their lives. Decision-making is about assessing all the options available, being aware of the situation within and around you. Thus, for children to become good at decision-making, they need to learn how to assess the possibilities, be self-aware about what they need, and understand the situation they are in. For many people, both young and adults making a decision is one of the hardest and complicated things in life, as it involves numerous aspects for consideration. Many times due to a lack of self-awareness, people remain confused throughout their lives and often end up making poor choices. Considering the dynamic environment of the 21st Century and exposure to technology from an early age, thus instilling the quality of making good decisions among children is imperative. Every small or big decision an individual makes has the potential to change his/her life. “Your life changes the moment you make a new, congruent, and committed decision. “- Tony Robbins (American Author, Coach, Speaker) What are the essential skills for effective decision-making? The ability to make sound decisions requires a wide variety of skills. Below are the skills that are crucial to make your child an effective Decision-maker: Critical Thinking: Critical thinking is the ability to think judiciously and reasonably without being affected by anything or anyone. It is an art of analyzing something with an unbiased mindset. Effective decision-making requires critical thinking over all the possible alternatives. Individuals need to analyze the cause and effect relationship to ensure that the selected alternative has minimum or no negative impacts. Critical Thinking will enable your child to make an informed decision. Problem-Solving: Problem-solving is the ability to solve problems effectively. Problem-solving skills are the basis for improvement and innovation. Children need to incorporate problem-solving skills to become a good decision-maker. Problem solving also requires critical thinking, but in addition, it is also about understanding the problem. As often, the solution is hidden within the problem itself. Creativity: Creativity is all about mixing originality with uniqueness. Creative Thinking helps us to see things from a different perspective. Sometimes, decisions are to be made regarding such aspects where there is no way to know which possibility or decision is the right one. Creativity will enable your child to make sound decisions in unforeseen situations. When the logical or traditional aspects do not make sense, it is the creativity of a person that comes into play. It can be an out-of-the-box idea or an unorthodox approach to seeing things from a different perspective. “Truly successful decision-making relies on a balance between deliberate and instinctive thinking.”- Malcolm Gladwell Logical Reasoning: Reasoning is concerned with analyzing a problem in a logical manner to draw conclusions. It helps to identify the reason behind anything and approach towards our assessment of things logically. Sound decisions are an outcome of logical reasoning. Reasoning will help your child to assess the pros and cons of the decision they intend to make. Thinking logically and reasonably ensures that foolish options are set aside straightaway during the decision-making process. Emotional Intelligence: Emotional Intelligence is the ability to understand and manage our emotions and the ability to understand and influence others’ emotions. Life is uncertain and unpredictable. There are times when we have to make hard decisions. This is when emotional Intelligence plays its role. Emotional Intelligence will help your children to manage their sentiments while making harsh decisions. Time Management: Time management is the ability to prioritize activities based on the available time. There are times when the decision is required to be taken time bound as well. In such a situation, the assessment of possible options, understanding of the situation, etc. is to be done within that time frame. When a child knows how to manage his/her time, the ability to take time-bound decisions improves. How can you improve Decision-making skills? Decision-making is one of the most significant and beneficial life skills in the 21st Century. Acquiring Decision-making skills also contributes to improving a child’s leadership ability. Decisions can transform our lives beyond imagination. Therefore, you must help your child in developing decision-making skills. Encourage Decision Making: During the day to day life, you can get multiple situations when you can allow your child to make a decision. The more opportunity a child will get to make decisions; the more his/her decision-making skills will improve. Ask Questions: Talk to your children about their thought process behind making a decision. See how they are evaluating various possibilities, in case you see one or more possibility was ignored, then ask them ‘what if this happened?’ Pay attention to how they respond and guide them in those aspects where there is a need for improvement. Discuss Your Process of Decision Making: Share with your children an incident of your life where you had to make a tough decision. Explain to them what was going on in your mind, what were the different aspects you took into consideration, etc. This way, they would feel more comfortable asking you for guidance for any of their decision. Involvement: If a certain situation in your house requires a decision to be made, make your children part of the discussion. The more involved they become, the more connected they would feel with the situation, putting them in a mindset of thinking and assessing the situation. More importantly, they would also learn from you, and they might even give you some valuable points to consider. “Unnecessary fear of a bad decision is a major stumbling block to good decisions.” – Jun Camp The world needs proficient Decision-makers for a bright future. Developing this skill within a child from an early age is crucial for the overall development. Creating a better generation then themselves is a responsibility of each generation. And this responsibility starts with parents itself.

September 11, 2023

Supporting Your Child’s Free Play

Play skills, similar to other developmental skills, progress in complexity with time and practice. Caregiver support and their role in nurturing a child’s free play skills changes and evolves throughout the play stages. Free play allows for the development of various physical, cognitive, language and socio-emotional skills, but also contributes greatly to children’s health and well-being. Free play, with minimal adult interference, will provide them with the opportunity to work on various skills including: problem solving, creative thinking, flexible thinking, initiative and grit, self-regulation skills, working memory, sustained focus, physicality and can provide them with an opportunity to have some quiet time to soothe and calm themselves. Free play with a playmate can further see them developing various socio-emotional skills including: self-expression, negotiation, compromise, perspective taking and empathy. Important skills for the future, wouldn’t you say…? Some children are natural players, skilled at independent free play and can shift easily between free play, screens and other home activities and tasks. Other children, however, may need more support and guidance to help them to play more independently and become captains of their own play adventures. During free play a child can create, direct and adapt the play activity and play script as they engage in their play adventure. Free play is intrinsically motivated, spontaneous, not limited by a certain set of rules or directives and not necessarily reality bound. If you have a little one that requires support in developing their free play skills, have a look at some of my top tips for free play: Make free play part of your daily routine. Create a safe and calm play space, preferably screen free, that won’t interfere with the flow of their play. Don’t overwhelm with too many toys and objects. Rotate items in boxes and containers, keep a few favourites close and include open ended toys and objects, such as wooden blocks or empty boxes. After your child chooses a play prompt (or you have provided them with a few choices), allow them time and space for their idea to form. Don’t be too quick to offer your own ideas and try to limit the “adult agenda” when it comes to free play. Offer encouragement and support, but try not to ask too many questions at the start while their idea is developing. Children need a longer time to process information and for their ideas to take shape. Asking too many questions too early on may discourage them. For more tips, information and demonstrations on developing and supporting play throughout the play stages as well as other areas of child development, come join our online PlayMore platform. Visit: www.playmoreot.com or our social media platforms @playmoreot on Instagram and Playmoreot on Facebook for more information. Let’s PlayMore! Anandé from PlayMore

September 7, 2023

Help! My child has no friends

We all have a need to love and be loved. Our lives feel happier and more fulfilled when we enjoy positive human relationships. Having friends who we can laugh and cry with, be serious or a little crazy with, and with whom we can feel completely comfortable is one of the most fundamentally important needs of the human race. This is why it feels so heart-breaking when we discover that our children may be struggling to make friends at school. Cindy Glass, Co-founder and Director of afterschool remediation franchise, Step Up Education Centre says “There are a number of reasons why a child may struggle to form positive friendships – negative behavioural choices, low self-esteem, personality differences, differing belief systems and unintentionally negative body language or tone of voice. Escapism from social interactions through over-use of technology also plays a big role in this!” “We need to note that all behavioural choices are based on how we feel about ourselves as a person and the inevitable fears that dominate these beliefs. Creating meaningful personal relationships is rooted in positive self-belief. Negative, self-defeating thoughts and behaviours often repel friendships and, unfortunately, this re-enforces the feelings of unworthiness and low self-value that created the negative behaviours in the first place” Cindy goes on to say. If your child is struggling to form friendships, you may want to consider the following helpful tips: 1. Ensure that you keep the lines of non-judgemental communication open. Chat about what happens at school, openly and honestly. Emotional intelligence skills of self-awareness and self-regulation are key here! Make sure that you do not re-enforce your child’s belief that he/she is less! Focus on their strengths and what others will like about them. They may, indeed, be a little different, but never less! 2. Chat to your child’s teacher with the aim of gaining a deeper understanding of your child’s behaviours at school. 3. Friendships cannot be forced. It takes positive mind-set and behavioural changes in your child if changes are to be enjoyed at school. Teach your child to focus on his/her choices and not on the choices of others. It takes patience and time but you will be amazed at the results! 4. People enjoy the company of positive happy individuals. Teach your child the joys of uplifting others. This will change the energy that your child gives off and other children will start looking to your child for a friendship that feels good to be in. 5. Emotional intelligence’s empathy and social skills will play a vital role in changing the way your child perceives himself/herself to be. Invest in these courses! “Finally, remember that children copy your actions, not your words! Set the example of how to treat others in positive, uplifting ways. Teach your children to own who they are-mistakes and all- and to value others because they value themselves first!” Cindy concludes.

September 6, 2023

Choosing a Baby Sitter

Choosing a baby sitter for your children can be a very daunting task. You need to find someone trustworthy, who is the right fit for your children.

September 6, 2023

QUICK TIPS FOR ENGAGING THE OLDEST CHILD

When the new baby comes home, the joy and excitement can lead to the first born child (or even just older children) feeling somewhat “dethroned” and ignored. When this occurs, it is common to see changes in that child’s behaviour; they may begin to feel jealousy toward the new arrival and in some cases, may even strike out to hurt them. Others may simulate being a baby once again by crying, talking ‘baby talk,’ and even having wetting accidents. Your challenge is to find creative ways for oldest children to feel different from their siblings and to develop a sense of value to the family by implementing the following ideas: The first tip is the BIG BROTHER or BIG SISTER buttons available at most party supply stores. They were intended to make the first born child feel special when the new baby comes home, but I love the idea so much I encourage parents to use it beyond just that one special time. Find creative ways for the oldest child to assist with the new sibling, but never leave them alone with the baby. They may be able to sing to the baby, help with the bath, or be helpful in collecting items needed for the baby’s care at the moment. Carve out time to have one-on-one time alone with the other child(ren). Set up visual schedules or timers so the older child can have something to watch for to know when their special time is approaching. You may even want to consider having special toys that only come out when mom must attend to the baby. Explore holding family meetings once a week, especially if you have school age children or older. It will promote a sense of importance among all the children and will help them feel a greater sense of respect from the parent(s). The meetings can be held on the same night of the week and everyone should be included. If one person leaves the meeting, it’s over until the next meeting. Other tips for the family meeting include keeping them brief, making them fun, and being consistent, especially if some of your children are younger. It is helpful to have everyone sitting in a circle and do your best to avoid answering the door or telephone. Doing so sends a message that the family is more important than anything else. If the oldest child can write, I suggest introducing the role of THE SCRIBE, the person who serves as the meeting secretary and takes the notes of what was decided and what was said. Preserved in a tin box in my closet is a folder of meeting minutes that were taken by my oldest child throughout the years of our family meetings. The lists of rules and decisions are presented in perfect penmanship in red crayon on white-lined paper. These documents are more valuable to me than any historical parchment paper documents I could ever own. The next time you’re facing challenging behaviour, check to see if it happens to be your oldest child. Perhaps they are trying to tell you that they don’t feel so special anymore and just need some encouragement that they still matter to you.

September 5, 2023

Why offering choices is important

One of the best ways to build up a sense of independence is to make choices. When we make our own choices, we feel some sense of control. With frequent opportunities to make our own decisions we begin to think of ourselves as ‘in power’ of at least parts of our lives. The same rings true for our youngsters. Making choices is not just an essential life skill for them, but Dr Erin Leyba says it builds respect, strengthens community, invites cooperation, develops problem-solving skills and capitalises on children’s basic human need to feel in control. How do we go about creating confident decision makers? It is a question of practice makes perfect. As many skills, you do not achieve success in the first round. By including simple choices throughout the day, your toddler will learn that he can have a say in what he chooses to eat for snack time (would you like an apple or banana?) or what to wear to school (would you like to wear the green or blue sweater today?). Here are a few golden rules to consider as you work your way to a stress-free day and empower your child to make choices on the road to becoming a confident decision maker: Choices must be limited. Offering too many options may create anxiety therefore keep it simple. Certain routine tasks are tricky especially when it comes to brushing teeth. Offer them a choice of toothbrush: would you like to use the green dinosaur or your shaking Spiderman toothbrush? Strawberry flavoured or minty toothpaste today? Sometimes adults need to tell children that there is no choice. When safety or health is at risk, it is important for the adult to say, “Choosing not to brush your teeth is not an option.” Choices must be honoured. Do not offer a choice that you cannot honour. The choices must be authentic. If you offer your two children an option of two stories, inevitably, one will choose the first story and the other child will choose the second story. This is not what you need at the end of the long day. Resolve this by offering each child the choice of story on alternate nights. Avoid being too indulgent and child-centered. “Anything you want my darling” does not offer a child sufficient boundaries that they require to feel safe which in turn is essential to developing self-assurance. As parents we are exhausted at the end of the day, it might feel like you have been in a boxing ring with your toddler. Offer them choices that will make them feel empowered and make feel like their opinions and feelings are of significance. By Bonita Nel, teacher at Pecanwood College

September 5, 2023

Baby monitor. Do I really need one?

The question I get asked is ‘is it really necessary? After all my parents did without and I turned out just fine!’. Baby Monitors come in all shapes and sizes but it’s all about what fits into your lifestyle and meets your needs as a parent.

August 31, 2023

How can creativity benefit your kids?

There are many different reasons why kids (and adults) end up with low self-esteem and a feeling of negativity and hopelessness. One of the big ones is that technology has changed the way kids socialize and interact with each other, and this is impacting on their mental and emotional well being. While there is no one size fits all solution, we can definitely make a difference by encouraging our children to engage in more creative activities from a very early age.

August 29, 2023

Keeping Fit while you’re Pregnant

Sports Science Institute Biokineticist, Zoe Woodman, gives us her advice on the do’s and don’ts of keeping fit during pregnancy.

August 29, 2023

DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES- YOUR BABY’S FIRST YEAR

Caring for an infant can be exhausting, but there’s so much to look forward to. Take a tour of first-year “firsts” with WebMD’s guide to the most anticipated baby milestones. During the first year of life, your baby will grow and develop at an amazing speed. While caring for an infant can be exhausting during this period, there is so much to look forward to. Here are the development milestones that your baby will reach in their first year: At Birth Head, Hands and Visuals At birth, your baby will: Have no control of head movement. You would notice that baby’s hands are closed and palmar and plantar grasp reflexes are present. Baby is able to close their eyes in response to bright light. 6 Weeks Head, Hands, Visuals, Hearing, Speech, Recognition and expressions Has a moderate amount of control over the head, particularly while lying on stomach, bust still demonstrates head lag when gently pulled up into a sitting position. Places hand in mouth and can make tight fists. Looks at faces or objects placed within the direct field of vision and may follow slow moving objects within 90°. Responds to sounds by calming, startling or crying. May turn head to the source of the sound. Starts making “cooing” sounds. Begins to smile in response to a familiar face or voice. 3 Months Head, Hands, Visuals, Hearing, Speech, Recognition, expressions and Gross Motor Can lift head when lying in a prone position, very little head lag. Spends much time inspecting hands. Hands are held loosely. Grasp objects that are placed in the hands. Follows objects moving up to 180° in the field of vision. Starts to recognise and look at the source of sounds. Smiles spontaneously. Develops facial expressions to show basic emotions. Recognises and responds to parents. Can lift upper body with forearms when lying on stomach. Demonstrates controlled leg movements lick kicking and stretching. Begins to demonstrate standing reflex, (pushing down on a surface with legs when held up). 6 Months Head, Hands, Visuals, Hearing, Speech, Recognition, expressions and Gross Motor Supports head and can move head. Reaches for and grasps objects. Transfers objects from hand to hand. Starts holding a bottle. Places objects in mouth. Can move eyes in all directions. Responds vocally when spoken to. Uses sounds, such as moaning, squealing or laughing, to express emotions. Uses repetitive monosyllabic sounds, like “baba”. Recognises toys. Recognises self in a mirror and responds to own name. Can support upper body with hands when lying on stomach. Sits when supported. Rolls over. Legs can support the body when held in a standing position. 9 Months Head, Hands, Visuals, Speech, Recognition, expressions and Gross Motor Can pick up, shake and drop small objects. Begins to grasp food and place it in the mouth. Holds a bottle. Begins to point. Starts imitating sounds. Recognises their own name. Nervous around strangers. Sits without support. Crawls on stomach and then on hands and knees. Starts to pull body into a standing position. 1 Year Begins to understand and respond to words like “no”and “bye bye”. Walks with support. Speaks up to 4 words. Can perform gestures such as waving goodbye, pointing or shaking the head. Plays with and makes sounds at toys. Begins to throw objects. Searches for hidden or fallen toys. Helps to dress self. Shows social preference. *These milestones are only given as an approximate as to when your baby might start doing certain things, as all babies develop differently. If you are concerned about your baby’s development, please consult with your healthcare professional.

August 28, 2023

WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME TO INTRODUCE SOLIDS TO YOUR BABY?

Over many years the theory on when the right age to introduce solids is, has been debated. The advice has varied over the last 60 years from 2 weeks old to 6 months and even older. There are two ways to approach this question: Understanding science and research Knowing your own baby The current evidence in research points to the following: Do not introduce any solids into your baby’s diet before 17 weeks unless advised to by a medical doctor. Preferably breastfeed your baby for at least 6 months. Do not delay the introduction of solids too long after 6 months as allergy risk as well as fussy eating can result from very late introduction of solids. It is safe from an allergy perspective to introduce solids between 17 weeks and 6 months of age. Your Baby With the facts in mind, turn your attention to your baby. Introduce solids between the window of 17 weeks and 6 months, once your baby shows he needs and is ready for solids: No longer displays a tongue thrust reflex that pushes food from his mouth. Can hold up his head and sits supported in a chair Is no longer stretching between feeds and is demanding another feed in the day. Interest in your eating and reaching for your food or utensils when you are eating. Not sleeping as well at night as he was previously. Once you have weighed this up, discuss it further with your clinic sister who knows your baby best from a health perspective.

August 25, 2023

WHAT IS A “LAZY” EYE?

Amblyopia better known as “lazy eye” occurs when the vision in a child’s one eye doesn’t develop like it should. If it is not treated promptly the brain will only process the picture from the normal eye and learn to ignore the picture from the lazy eye. It is in fact the leading cause of visual impairment in children and affects approximately 2 to 3 out of every 100 children. What are the possible causes? Amblyopia commonly starts when one eye has a much better focus than the other. This can be caused by a number of conditions * such as: Strabismus (squint) –This is the most common cause of amblyopia. It occurs when the eyes don’t line up properly, for example, one-eye turns in towards the nose or it turns out towards the ears. The eyes cannot focus together on an image so the brain compensates by switching off whichever eye produces the fuzziest image. Unequal Refractive Errors or focus – Refractive amblyopia occurs when the brain favours one eye over the other due to extreme near-sightedness, far-sightedness or even astigmatism *. The brain gets a blurry image from the eye with the refractive error and a clear image from the normal eye, so to stop the confusion; it starts to ignore the eye with the blurry image. Vision Obstruction – This is also known as deprivation amblyopia. This occurs when something blocks light from entering a baby’s eye. Common causes include cataracts, scars and blood at the back of the eye. How is it Diagnosed? Amblyopia can be difficult to spot because it doesn’t have any external signs or symptoms and it begins in infancy or early childhood. Because of this some experts recommend that children have their eyes tested at six months, then at three years and again before they start school. Some clues that amblyopia may be present include: Observing a baby’s behaviour when one eye is blocked; if the baby continuously and constantly fusses or cries, it might indicate a vision problem. Squinting eyes can also be another clue that amblyopia may be present. Because amblyopia often affects one eye only, the parents may notice that the child constantly bumps into objects on the affected side.* If amblyopia runs in the family, the child is more likely to get it. Remember, you can’t tell by just looking at a child that they have it, and although these clues might give a suggestion of amblyopia, a full examination is needed to make an accurate diagnosis. This is essential so that prompt treatment can be started to try and prevent irreversible vision loss. How is it treated? The most common form of treatment for amblyopia is to retrain the brain to start using the weaker eye. This is done by firstly correcting any focusing problems with glasses or surgery (when needed) and then wearing a patch over the stronger eye. Sometimes eye drops are also prescribed to blur the image in the stronger eye, forcing the brain to use the weaker eye. What’s the long-term outlook? Amblyopia can lead to problems* if left untreated, such as loss of depth perception or blindness in one eye. If the stronger eye gets injured somehow, then serious problems with visual acuity can follow. With early diagnosis and treatment, most children’s vision will improve. It becomes increasingly difficult to treat after the age of 10 and therefore it is so Important to catch it early!

August 24, 2023

GETTING THE STIMULATION BALANCE RIGHT WITH YOUR BABY

Stimulation is important for brain development – of that we are sure. The connections (synapses) that are made between brain cells are vital for development. For example a connection in the language part of the brain will result in understanding of speech or in speech itself. Connections are mainly made between brain cells in the presence of stimulation.

August 23, 2023

Lifesaving tips every parent should know about

While most parents prefer not to think of their children in potentially life-threatening situations, being prepared and knowing how to respond appropriately in the event of an accident, injury or illness is crucial for the well-being of children. These unexpected events can also place huge financial burdens on families if they are not dealt with quickly, decisively and correctly. For this reason, Bestmed Medical Scheme has introduced Best Care, a life-saving first aid series that offers insights on how parents and caregivers can better care for their families. In this article the brand offers tips on first aid kits, CPR and Wound care in collaboration with some of SA’s best paediatricians. First aid A fully stocked first aid kit is an essential item in every home, but it’s also a good idea to create a mini first aid kit that can be carried in a handbag, diaper bag or in the car for use during an emergency while out and about or on the road to your next holiday destination. According to paediatrician, Dr Enrico Maraschin, having medical tools and medication that can be used to measure and control a temperature is vital. High fevers can be dangerous to the health and wellbeing of little ones if left unattended or not properly treated. It can result in convulsions, which is a stressful event for parents to witness and support their child through. Rehydration solutions, over-the-counter medicines to bind a runny tummy and even probiotics are good items to include in your home first aid kit for children, in case your child is exposed to a virus or bacteria that can cause diarrhoea and sometimes vomiting. Antiseptic creams, bandages to wrap wounds and a small pair of scissors to cut bandages may also come in handy in case of a fall or injury, and keep safety pins, an eye patch and adhesive dressings packed too. CPR Knowing how to resuscitate a child who is choking or having difficulty breathing is a necessary first aid skill that every parent and caregiver should possess, as it could help keep them alive until emergency services arrive. Resuscitation is necessary when a child appears unresponsive, has collapsed or is gasping for air and struggling to breathe. It’s always best, of course, to intercede and assist a child as early on as possible – always take signs of breathing difficulty seriously and don’t wait for the child to collapse before taking action. The first abbreviation to keep in mind is SSS – Safety, Shout and Stimulate. Safety: Look at the immediate environment around you and ascertain whether it’s safe to attend to the child here or if they need to be moved to safety. It might seem simple enough, but in a moment of panic it’s easy to lose sight of this very important step. Shout: Call for help from people nearby, phone the emergency services or get someone to call an ambulance for you. Stimulate: Check if the child is responsive by gently tapping their arm, stroking their face or speaking to them. If the child does not groan or move and is unresponsive, quickly move on to the ABC. ABC is a CPR abbreviation that stands for Airway, Breathe, and Circulation. Airway: Make sure the child’s head and neck are aligned and that their body is positioned in a straight position – don’t let the neck flex as this prevents air from reaching the lungs. Breathe: In the case of infants and babies, place your mouth over their nose and mouth to create a seal. For bigger babies and children, pinch the nose and place the mouth over just their mouth. Circulation: There are three steps involved in this section: Step one: Take a breath and breathe into the mouth, making sure that the chest rises. Step two: Wait for the chest to deflate to normal position Step three: Repeat the first step. You can continue this cycle five times. If the child is still not responsive, move on to chest compressions. While the technique varies between younger and older children, the gist remains the same. For infants, use two fingers or a hand circling technique to apply compressions. For older children who are above the age of one, use one or two hands curled around the other to press on to the breastbone (the same would apply for an adult). Use quick compressions, positioning yourself directly over the chest and keeping the elbows straight. “You need to do the compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 seconds. Singing a song like ‘Staying Alive’ in your head and compressing to the beat will help you to do this,” says paediatrician, Dr Kevanya Coopoo. Alternate between compressions and administering rescue breaths, and continue this until help arrives, the child is responsive, or you are too fatigued. “I always recommend that families go for basic life support courses. Have a look at the Resuscitation Council of South Africa’s website for a range of courses to choose from,” says Dr Coopoo. She adds that this ensures all members of the family are aware of safety practices and are able to help one another in a crisis. For younger children, teach them the phone numbers of emergency services so that they can call for help in an emergency. Wound care Accidents happen, and when they do, they may result in wounds that require proper care and treatment to ensure they heal well. A wound is any break in the skin or injury to the tissue. It can be open (in the case of the skin being penetrated or cut) or closed (if there’s damage to underlying tissue). “If there’s bleeding, compress the wound with a clean cloth or gauze for a few minutes until the bleeding stops. Then rinse off with clean running tap water for a few minutes. Now, clean the wound by using an alcohol-sterilised pair of tweezers to pick out any debris,” says Dr Coopoo. Dr Coopoo adds that the wound would most likely be moist at

August 17, 2023

When do children start talking?

This is one of the most common questions posed to a speech therapist. As a parent, if this questions has come to your mind – this indicates a certain level of concern for your child which is a great start. An open minded parent, who shows keen interest in their child’s developmental milestones, is the beginning of a child’s progress. Being in denial about any delay in your child’s milestones is more detrimental to your child than the actual delay itself. For any concern, assistance is always available. Trust your gut feeling – motherly instincts are there for a very good reason, listen to it. At the end of this article we share a fun activity to encourage your child to make verbal requests in various lengths with the final aim being – “Mommy, may I have more chocolate pizza please” The standards that we have for our children differ according to various factors. Two parents, who may have had a rough childhood financially, could have opposing views regarding money when it comes to their own children. One parent may feel that their children need to value money in the same way hence they limit their spending and have a set amount of allowance they receive. The other parent may feel that they do not want their child to be ‘deprived’ the way they were hence they have no limits regarding how much money their child receives. Both parties need to have a common ground to avoid conflict in their relationship and the relationship they have with their child. You might be wondering – what does this have to do with my child’s speech development? In the same way 2 parents can have different opinions regarding finances, 2 parents can also have different opinions whether a child’s speech is delayed “just like so and so’s son” or a visit to a speech therapist is compulsory. Depending on who you ask, the stage of “talking” is interpreted differently. For some, it may be when a child starts using vocalisations such as /nana/ whilst others it could be when a child uses a two-word utterance such as /baba gone/. The former is known as babbling which begins around the age of 4 months and the latter is achieved by 18 months. Before we discuss these milestones in greater detail, let’s understand the difference between speech and language. As elaborated in our May edition, All You Need to Know About Speech Therapists, “speech” is the actual sounds that emanate from the mouth. Disorders of speech can include stuttering, a lisp, apraxia, dysarthria. “Language” is a system of communication made up of written text and sounds. Language is further broken down into receptive and expressive language. A child who can follow age appropriate verbal instructions but is unable to express himself verbally is said to have delayed expressive language development. At birth, your new-born’s sole method of communicating hunger, pain and discomfort is by crying (see Dunstan baby language by Priscilla Dunstan as featured on the Oprah Winfrey show). Cooing and laughter are 2 reflexes that a baby can’t control i.e. it happens naturally. Playing the game peek-a-boo is an ideal way to stimulate these reflexes in children 4 – 12 months. They would laugh (sometimes uncontrollably!) at almost any silly sound that you make. Just as walking is preceded by crawling, so too is talking preceded by babbling. For some babbling are the non-sense sounds which babies make that have the ability to melt anyone’s heart. Ironically, we can’t wait for babies to start talking, however once they are older and the questions don’t stop – we wish they would keep quiet. 4 – 5 months Simple babbling Ba – na – da Your child discovers s/he has a “voice” and will experiment with pitch, volume, tone etc 6 – 7 months: Reduplicated babbling (repeated the same sound) Baba – nana – mama – dada A string of the same sound may be repeated e.g. mamamamama 8 – 9 months: Variegated babbling (repeating different sounds) Maba – daba – bana 10 – 11 months: Jargon 12 month: First meaning word By the age of 12 months, your child will understand more words than they can say i.e. their receptive language will be greater than their expressive language. As parents, it is tempting for us to respond to our children’s non-verbal cues as compared to prompting them for a verbal response. Let’s explain further using a practical example Scenario 1 Ten-month old Ben was playing with a soft ball which has rolled under the bed. His mother noticed that the ball has disappeared. Without saying a word, she reaches under the bed to get the ball and pass it to Ben. Ben’s mother could have used verbal and non – verbal communication which requires minimal effort but has a profound impact on Ben’s development. Scenario 2 Ten-month old Tom’s mother, Sarah, noticed that his favourite toy fell off the table. She turned to Tom and asked, “Where is your toy” while using exaggerated facial expression, a questioning tone of voice and arms in the air. Sarah then puts her hand over her mouth and says “Oh-o!” with her other hand on her hip. By now Tom is carefully examining his mothers body language and taking cues from her tone of voice that something is wrong. Sarah then repeats the words “Gone!” in a stern tone a few times. Tom is making association between his mothers body language, tone of voice and choice of words. Sarah decides to let Tom crawl on the floor and look for his toy. He finds his toy and exclaims by saying ‘bababa’. Sarah then takes the toy away from him and places it behind her back, out of Tom’s sight. She asks Tom again, “Where is your toy”. Only once his facial expression changes does she repeat the words “Gone!” using the same tone of voice and facial expression as before. Sarah has used the opportunity to expand her child’s

August 3, 2023

A bedtime routine for the family

My kids are 2, 4 and 6 years old and I wanted to help moms out with an idea of what your evenings could look like with a consistent routine that your children can know and become used to. By knowing what to expect, as each night is more or less the same, my kids don’t argue or negotiate what to do or not do, as we have done the routine since they were babies. We have dinner when dad gets home from work around 5:00/5:30 p.m. After dinner, we do some sort of activity, which usually lasts for 15−20 minutes. We either go outside and play, throw the ball for our dog, swing or jump on the trampoline (the kids, not us adults!). Or, on long summer days, we go for a walk around the block. After this, we go inside and all three kids jump into the bath at around 18:00/18:15 p.m. While they bath, I get their clothing ready – nappy for little one and PJs. I set up their essential-oil owl diffusers (I find this is super helpful with snotty noses and change of season as well as dry air) and take the towels back to the bathroom, while dad stands in the doorway watching them. They play and the splashing often gets a little out of hand; we wash them and then wrangle them out the bath by 18:30 p.m. We apply cream, do meds and get dressed. We then all read a story or two (sometimes three, if they get their way) on one bed. After the story, it is lights out. We all say good night and my husband often sits with the older two for a few minutes (my 4- and 6-year olds share a room, each with their own bed) and I take our 2-year old to bed. I tuck her in with her bunny and also sit with her or stand by the door for a few minutes. Most nights, all the kids are asleep by 7:00 p.m. In summer, we put the fans are on, which helps with a bit of white noise, and in winter, we have wall heaters to take the chill off the air. I dress my kids in warm fleece onesies in winter because they generally do not sleep under their blankets, and before I go to bed myself each night, I check on them and put a blanket over them, as being cold can cause early wakings with babies and children. When they were smaller they still had sleeping bags. We try keep our bedtime routine, from bath to lights out, within 30 minutes. Research shows that our body’s melatonin is at its highest point within 30 minutes of having had warm water on our bodies, and I have seen that this really does help my kids calm down and get sleepy. With only one child, you can really create a SPA type of environment with dimmed lights and calming music. But as they grow and are more mobile or when you start to have more kids in the bath-time routine, it is quite unrealistic to expect your kids to not splash and be loud at bath time. Having a consistent routine allows my children to know what is coming next and that bedtime with lights off is at the end of the routine. To summarise: WHY a bedtime routine is needed: A consistent bedtime routine is vital for good sleep health, for both children and adults. The consistency of a bedtime routine helps your baby or child prepare for sleep and to know that sleep is coming. It also helps with melatonin production. WHEN a bedtime routine should be done: If you aim for bedtime to be between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., you need to aim for 30 minutes before that. HOW a bedtime routine should be done: I love reading that “a bedtime routine should be relaxing and a SPA-like environment should be created” (at Good Night, we even used to advocate this). And yes, that is a lovely idea and would help with prepping the brain for sleep and allow your baby to feel super relaxed and calm. It could also be achievable when you have only one child, but throw three children in the bath together and the noise and atmosphere will be more like varsity-locker-room vibes than a SPA. Load shedding added to the mix can spice up your night, especially as it is getting darker earlier as winter approaches. I use a lamp to have light in the bathroom. I also need to be a little more prepared with turning our geyser on earlier so our water is warm and making sure the clothing is out so I don’t need to use my cell phone flashlight to find the PJs in the dark. But my kids are so used to load shedding that it doesn’t cause too many issues; they just know that we need to then tell and not read a story in the dark. Below are just the basic points of what a bedtime routine can look like. Bedtime routine: Bath Dress in PJs Read a story Hugs and kisses Lights off Being able to have all three of our children bath and do their bedtime routine together was what we wanted as a family, firstly to create a time of bonding and secondly for practical reasons. When my husband works late, I need to be able to independently bath and put to bed all three of my kids together and bathing and dressing them one by one is way too exhausting and drawn out. Having all three of our kids bath together works for us, even though that creates lots of noise, wet floors and chaos. We embrace the chaos and noise and allow the warm water temperature to do its work on the brain (temperature change signals the brain to release melatonin) regardless of the splashing and loud fun being had by all three children. By Megan

August 2, 2023

HOW TO DISCARD OF EXPIRED OR UNUSED MEDICATIONS

I usually go through all my medications during National Pharmacy Month in September since that’s when I usually remember to do so. It’s also the month I make time to reorganise my drug cupboard. However, this year I have seen many of you start off the new year by decluttering your homes and doing a little bit of “spring cleaning”.

August 1, 2023

How much should you be feeding your toddler?

Nutrition is one of the most important things to get right when your child starts eating.

August 1, 2023

How to weighted blankets help with sleep, anxiety and concentration?

Weighted blankets and toys are designed to help children and adults with difficulties such as anxiety, hyperactivity and sleeplessness to attain a calm and relaxed state. The added weight provides deep pressure input, which is interpreted by the proprioceptive system. Our proprioceptors are sensory receptors located in our muscles and joints. This system helps us feel the position of our bodies in space. Proprioceptive or ‘deep pressure’ input is calming and organising to our bodies. For the same reason, we like firm hugs when we are in distress, bite our nails or chew gum when we are anxious, and why babies suck dummies and fingers. All of these activities are using the proprioceptive system for calming. Deep pressure is also an essential part of child development. It is present for the entire period in utero and helps keep baby content in the womb. When the baby is born, they are no longer held within the tight cocoon of the womb space. Providing the same kind of pressure to their bodies helps them feel comforted and secure. It also helps to carry them over during sleep cycles, meaning they won’t need to wake up for comfort when moving from one sleep cycle to the next. Weighted blankets also provide what is called a ‘grounding effect’. They help children and adults to feel safe and secure at night, by helping them feel more grounded. There is also less chance of rolling over and the blanket slipping off, or your child kicking it off at night and then crying to be recovered. For toddlers and children, the extra weight when carrying the toy or blanket stimulates the proprioceptors, giving them more opportunity to learn about their body position in space. Heavy muscle work by carrying these items is also calming and organising. Weighted items also provide input to the tactile system-our sense of touch. While light, unexpected touch is alerting and can be irritating, deep, constant touch is calming and comforting. Children often need this constant deep touch to remain calm, and stay asleep. Weighted items can also be very effective within the school environment. Weighted lap pads are designed to be worn over the lap in class by the restless, fidgety or anxious child. The weight helps the child remain seated for longer periods, and can benefit concentration.

July 26, 2023

HOW TO MAKE MATHS MORE ENGAGING FOR KIDS

Have you ever heard your child say that maths isn’t fun? While maths can be challenging, there are a variety of ways to make maths more engaging and fun for kids of all ages. First, help your child understand how they can use maths in real-life scenarios. From cooking to careers, there’s a ton of instances that maths is useful, and recognizing that can help them understand why it’s important to continue practicing. Once they understand a bit more about how maths is used, try some of the below methods to make learning maths more engaging. Play maths games There are a ton of maths games out there that effectively teach while being entertaining. No matter what maths level your child is on, there is a game that can tie in learning a new concept or strengthening one that they want to improve. Playing maths games takes away a feeling of intimidation and encourages kids to have fun while practicing their skills. Incorporate it into their interests Let’s say your child loves to help you cook. You can incorporate maths seamlessly into your preparation by discussing recipes while cooking. If your child loves soccer, you can talk about how maths can be used to figure out different plays and positions, and how the statistics side of it can tell a story. Incorporating maths into an interest that they love will show kids that maths is useful and something that can help them expand their skills. Hands-on learning experiences Have you ever seen a jar filled with sweets and the option to guess how many are in the jar? This is a great example of a hands-on learning experience because of the options to incorporate maths skills. While guessing is a fun element, counting different coloured sweets can bring in addition, multiplication, and even fractions. It’s a great way to show maths beyond paper and pencil problems. Read books that talk about maths If your child is interested in reading or learning about maths in a different way than just through numbers and equations, try finding books that incorporate maths. Many children’s picture books use maths to count or talk about objects. A short search on the internet will give you so many book suggestions, but one that might be really useful is this one from Stanford University: “40 Children’s Books That Foster a Love of Math” Enrol in an enrichment programme Sometimes maths isn’t fun because a child is struggling with the foundational skills. To make maths more engaging, consider an enrichment program that consistently challenges and incorporates practice. This will help to build their skills and ability to problem solve which in turn can help them feel more confident to tackle maths concepts. The Kumon Maths Programme develops strong problem-solving and calculation skills from the four basic operations through algebra and calculus. In the Maths Programme, students will develop a solid foundation of maths skills that can help them excel in and out of the classroom. In addition, the Programme develops confidence, concentration, perseverance, self-discipline and the ability to learn new work on your own. If you would like to find out more about the Kumon Maths Programme, visit us at www.kumon.co.za This article is taken directly from the KUMON NORTH AMERICA website: https://www.kumon.com/resources/how-to-make-maths-more-engaging/?doing_wp_cron=1656500380.2784550189971923828125

July 26, 2023

Bathing your Baby

How often should I bath my baby? It’s up to you how often you bathe your baby. Some babies love being in the water and giving your baby a warm bath can become a fun and relaxing ritual. That’s not to say you have to bathe your baby every day. If your baby is new born, a bath two or three times a week is enough to keep him clean. Bear in mind that if you live in a hard water area, too much tap water may dry out and damage your baby’s skin. Between baths: wash your baby’s face regularly clean your baby’s genitals and bottom after each nappy change wipe any grime off his skin When you do bath your baby you may find it a little scary the first few times. You may want to have someone with you to give you a bit of support. It’s also helpful if you’ve forgotten something you need for your baby. Until you get into a routine, you’ll probably find this is a common occurrence! Handling a wriggling, wet and slippery baby takes practice and confidence, but you and your baby will get used to bath time and start to enjoy it. Most babies find warm water soothing and a bath may help a fussy baby to relax and calm down. Where should I bath my baby? To begin with you may find it easier to use the kitchen sink or a small plastic baby bath. You could use your big bath, but it can be awkward as you need to kneel or lean over the side. If you do use your big bath, it may help to use a bathing seat or support, or a rubber mat or sponge bath base. When should I bath my baby? Choose a time of day when you’re not expecting any interruptions and have time to devote to your baby. It’s best if your baby is awake and contented before you start, and between feeds, so he’s neither hungry nor full. When your baby is new born you may find it easiest to bath him during the day. But after a few months, a bath can become part of his bedtime routine. Warm water can help to relax your baby and make him sleepy. It’s also an opportunity for other family members to get involved. Bath time is a part of baby care that dads often enjoy taking on. If someone comes to the door or the phone rings and you feel you must answer it, scoop your baby up and take him with you. Never leave your baby unattended in the bath, not even for a few seconds. That could be all the time it takes for your baby to get into difficulty in the water. Even if one of your older children is in the bath with him, or you are using a special bath, bath support or bath seat, you must stay with your baby. Once your baby is a couple of months old, you or your partner could share a bath with him. Being in the bath with your baby is a lovely way for you to be close to each other. It’s a great way for dads to have precious skin-to-skin time with their baby, too. Have a quick shower or wash before you get in the bath. Make sure the water is warm, not hot. Use mild baby cleansers and washes, as your normal bath products will be too harsh for your baby’s skin. It can be tricky, and risky, to get in and out of the bath while holding your baby, so ask your partner or someone else to help. They can pass your baby to you once you’ve got in and lift him back out again when you’ve finished.

July 26, 2023

Parental Preference

It is quite typical that many children appear to have a parental preference for one parent/caregiver even when it comes to sleep. This essentially prevents the other parent’s efforts to attend to their baby. This dynamic, whatever the cause, often results in one parent feeling exhausted and overwhelmed and the other parent feeling disempowered, unloved, frustrated and resentful. Is this normal? It is very typical, in fact, it is developmentally appropriate for a baby to assign their needs to be met solely by one specific parent. However, we can also encourage children to begin focusing on more than one relationship at a time by encouraging a higher level of acceptance of the less preferred parent. Firstly, the baby needs to learn that the parents trust each other. If a mom is always jumping in to rescue the baby when they are crying in Daddy’s arms, the mom is giving the baby the impression that she doesn’t trust dad to care for the baby. You want to avoid undermining the relationship and give them a chance to figure out their own dynamic. Just because they do it differently does not mean they are doing it wrong. We need the baby to understand that parents do things differently and those differences are ok. The way daddy dresses me might be clumsier than the way mommy does it. Mommy might rush me through the bath, where daddy likes to take his time and let me play and splash a bit more. What does this mean for sleep? When we embark on sleep coaching, it can entail us taking into consideration what the baby associates with falling asleep: is this sustainable, a long-term solution? Does it require assistance from anyone other than the baby? Often we find baby’s that need to be held in a very specific way, swayed to a very specific rhythm, fed the breast or sung to. That makes it very difficult for any other person to replicate. Encouraging inter-changeability around bedtime is desirable as it prevents one parent from becoming an unsustainable sleep association and allows the baby to learn that sleep is associated with themselves and NOT someone else or someone specific. The benefit is that both parents can do bedtime and take turns to do bedtime. The added benefit is that it makes babysitting your baby easier! What can we do? Whenever possible, give both parents opportunities to put the baby to bed. It is a great opportunity for family bonding time! Once a baby no longer has bedtime struggles and they can put themselves to sleep independently without hours of assistance from a parent, that exact bedtime becomes some of the most precious moments with the baby. Both parents deserve a chance to cherish these moments and bedtime is a great opportunity to fill their love cup, give them extra snuggles and kisses and reconnect with them after a busy day. But the bedtime routine should not need to take two parents to complete. Parents can take turns to do it! When the other parent is in charge, use that opportunity to give yourself some downtime. If a grandparent is visiting, let them get involved. Usually, they love participating in bath and bedtime. This becomes exceptionally valuable once a new sibling arrives. I find that having a toddler accustomed to both parents helps the toddler feel more settled when the new baby arrives. It is very difficult for a toddler who was accustomed to only one parent, now suddenly have that parent unavailable because they are occupied with a newborn. It is obvious to see how this would create doubt and emotional uncertainty in the older toddler. A toddler who is not reliant on a specific parent, won’t feel as put out and the primary parent can make up for that lost time with the toddler in the day. Sometimes, it is good to take a step back and realize that you’re both good at what you do and being tag-team-parents have a host of wonderful benefits. You’ll be surprised at just how much your children will enjoy one-on-one time with each of you. Likewise, just how much rejuvenated you will feel by having a mini break from your baby every other night. By Tammy Buitendach – Good Night Consultant References: www.sleepmatters.ie.org www.sleephealthjournal.org www.mentalhealthandhappiness.com www.verywellfamily.com

July 24, 2023

PARENTING AS A TEAM

When a parent comes to me for help with their kids and tells me about their challenges, my first step is to ask questions about this family’s situation. The information they share with me usually sheds some light on circumstances that may be contributing toward, or causing at least some of the challenges this parent is currently experiencing. Some of those circumstances include the current condition of the relationship of the parents of the children; fighting, arguing, separation, divorce, etc. These situations factor in because children are affected directly by the adult emotional chaos that may be happening in the home or around the kids. Here are some suggestions for parenting more as a team, regardless of any issues that have come between the adults. Agree together on how various situations will be handled with the children, and implement them with conviction. You won’t have answers to all situations but you can begin discussing with each other how you will both handle common ones to start. When new situations arise unexpectedly, discuss them in private away from the kids and then announce them jointly. If you’re just getting ready to start a family, it’s never too early to discuss parenting issues. Make time to discuss your values and beliefs in parenting and children rearing with your significant other, and share your experiences on how you were parented as a child. Take a parenting class to learn together and seek recommendations on good parenting books from family and friends. Always speak respectfully of other caregivers who share with you, the responsibility for caring for your children. This includes your spouse, the other parent, grandparents and other relatives. Doing so models integrity for the kids to learn from. Even though the other caregiver may have done something to hurt you or others, as long as they are sharing in the caregiving, your child(ren) may still see them as a hero and an adult to look up to. It’s not always possible to hide arguments from the kids and some experts suggest that you don’t. It’s definitely OK for your kids to know that you both don’t always agree, but refrain from mistreating the other adult verbally or physically. It’s important to know that your children will learn how to develop their own relationships with others, based on the model you present. If the argument begins to escalate, take it to another room for privacy. It’s also important that your children see the “makeup” after the argument subsides. And what if you’re a single parent? Create a support network made up of adults you trust with your children who can help give you the breaks you need to “recharge your batteries.” For single moms, engage trustworthy male relatives to spend time with your son(s) and for single dads, engage female relatives you trust to spend time with your daughters. And it’s great when your boyfriend and/or girlfriend bonds with your children, but they should not administer discipline. That’s reserved for you, the parent.

July 24, 2023

Meal prep for busy families

Who knew that being a mom or dad meant you would have to come up with delicious meals every day for the rest of your days? Dinner time can be very stressful, yet it can be super easy if you are prepared and organised. What do we know about children’s nutrition? A balanced diet consisting of fruit, vegetables, protein, and grains is the best way. That means that if planned right, you never have to feel guilty by pulling out a pizza from the freezer because your child eats healthy food most nights and days. Here are the steps to weekly meal preparation: Plan a menu It is important to choose things that your family likes. For example, if Spaghetti Bolognaise is a hit, make a batch enough for 3-4 meals. Planning the menu will also ensure that you can shop for the right ingredients so that you don’t have to stop at the shop every couple of days and save money in the long run. Ensure that you have enough containers This is a once-off purchase that you can use time and time again—choosing containers that are freezer friendly. Portion out your meals Make sure that you can take out your meals, and they feed your family with just enough. You will only be able to reheat food that has yet to be reheated. Variety Children love variety, though they don’t mind having the same or similar foods on a specific day. For example, Mondays could be beef day, Tuesdays could be chicken days, and Fridays could be pizza day. While they love variety, they also love predictability. Get the children to help. Children love to assist in the kitchen. They can do age-appropriate chores like mashing potatoes or mixing ingredients. This is a great way to teach your child about healthy eating habits and allow them some bonding time with you. Remember to have fun! Dinner times can often be a time of stress and anxiety, let’s choose to create great memories for our children.

July 18, 2023

Don’t let your child become a statistic

“It will never happen to my child!” – You’re right, but do you want to take the risk? As every loving parent knows, that moment you hold your child, there is nothing you wouldn’t do for them. And no one wants to come up against a ‘Mamma Bear’ when she is defending her child. How do you defend your child when you don’t know what is happening behind that screen? How do you protect your child from predators that can mimic and penetrate themselves into your child’s life? You can keep them away from these dangers however the digital world is playing a more active role in our lives. You can arm them with the skills to spot these dangers before they become a reality. Take a digital adventure with them and help to better prepare them for what may lay ahead. Education is the key. Communication is the magic that brings all of this together. We’ve read the 143-page research paper from Global kids online on South African Kids Online: Barriers, opportunities & risks. This was like reading a terrifying thriller novel that has no end. According to the study, “The internet is beginning to significantly impact all societies in numerous profound and dynamic ways, regardless of location, infrastructure, and economic level. Recent global estimates suggest that one in three internet users is a child and that the proportion of child internet users is likely to be higher in developing countries.” To summarise some interesting points from the report: The report was completed in 3 main provinces, where one in two (48.1%) child participants said that they never or hardly ever spoke to their parents about their internet use. From the child perspective only 42.0% of parents never suggested ways for their children to use the internet safely and 49.1% never spoke to their children about what do if something online bothered or upset them. An alarming 57% of parents admitted that they had never suggested ways to use the internet safely. However, parents did show a deep concern for their children’s online wellbeing in the focus group discussions. Social Kids was born out this very same, shared concern for their own son. You can’t leave it in the hands of the school or have them learn from peers and friends. Codey Crawler was developed to help take children through the online journey and to better prepare them for what may lie ahead. It’s the basics of internet safety and it’s a topic that we can now face together with our children, encouraging them to share their experiences and to create the self-awareness they need to guard their information and privacy. Register today and save! https://bit.ly/3njBqid

July 11, 2023

The benefits of body scrubs: Here’s why you should make them part of your regime

Exfoliation is an important part of any skincare regime, and any expert will tell you that exfoliating weekly or bi-weekly is key to maintaining a healthy, clear complexion. But what about the rest of your body? Despite most of us taking great care to stay on top of our facial exfoliation, many of us treat body scrubs like an indulgent treat rather than a body care staple. If you already use a body scrub in your weekly regime, good for you! You’ll know that is makes all the difference in keeping skin soft and smooth. If you’re not yet convinced, allow us to give you a handful of great reasons why it’s time to start scrubbing. What is a body scrub? Body scrubs are products designed to exfoliate skin. They contain kernels, beads, seeds or other abrasive materials that physically slough off dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. What are the benefits of using a body scrub? The main goal of exfoliating with a scrub is to remove dead and dry skin cells from the surface of the skin. Our skin is constantly regenerating and we shed thousands of microscopic skin cells every day. Some of these fall off naturally, while others collect on the surface of the skin. If not removed properly these dead skin cells can clog pores, resulting in breakouts or blackheads, they can make skin appear dull and they can build up, leading to a rough texture. When you use a body scrub to exfoliate your skin, you’ll remove these cells, resulting in: Fewer breakouts Body acne is usually caused by fluctuating hormones or bacteria from sweat, however, if pores become clogged due to a build-up of dead skin cells, this may also lead to breakouts. Smoother skin Have you ever felt how smooth your skin feels after a scrub? That’s because the dead skin cells that accumulate on the surface may give the skin a rough or uneven texture. Once they’re removed, skin is soft and silky. Brighter skin Dermatologists and skincare therapists will usually recommend exfoliation for patients who are struggling with a dull or ashy complexion. Lacklustre skin may not be as noticeable on the body as it is on the face, but you’ll definitely notice an increase in radiance after a scrub. Improved circulation The physical act of rubbing a scrub on your skin in circular motions increases blood flow and improves circulation. Not only does this improve the skin’s radiance, but it also helps prevent the formation of cellulite. Fewer ingrown hairs If you’re prone to ingrown hairs you’ll know how painful and pesky they can be. Body scrubs can help free the trapped hairs and minimize the appearance of razor burn. How do you use a body scrub? Start off by washing your skin to remove and dirt, debris or sweat, and rinse with lukewarm water. Scoop some body scrub from the tub and gently massage the product into your skin in circular motions. Pay particular attention to areas that are prone to rough skin, like the feet and ankles, knees and elbows. If you find the texture too rough on your hands, you can use an exfoliating mitten or sponge. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat skin dry. Follow with your favourite body moisturiser. Do this once or twice a week for softer, smoother luminous skin. What type of scrub is best? Scrubs and exfoliators came under scrutiny a few years back when it was discovered that the synthetic microbeads found in many of them were contaminating the ocean and were even found inside of dead fish. It’s really important to choose a scrub that contains natural ingredients and that is free from plastic or synthetic microbeads. Not only are these bad for your skin (they can be very harsh and cause micro cuts) but they are also bad for the planet. Sugar and salt are two of the most commonly used abrasives in natural body scrubs. Sugar is by far the superior option: its granules are smaller and it is less abrasive than salt. Suitable for use on sensitive skins, sugar scrubs are much gentler, without skimping on efficacy. Salt granules, on the other hand, are larger in size and have sharper edges, making it more abrasive on the skin. Tree Hut is known for their award-winning, best-selling Shea Sugar Scrubs (R395.00), and South Africans are finally able to get their hands on these sought-after products as they’re now available for purchase locally! Made from shea butter and sugar, these body scrubs transform skin with the aid of natural ingredients. They’re free from synthetic ingredients like parabens and sulphates and contain a special blend of six oils to nourish, hydrate and soften skin. And their scents? They’re out of this world! Available in a major variety from classic (the crow-pleasers like Moroccan Rose and Coconut Lime) to destination-inspired (think Coco Colada and Tropic Glow) and solution-driven (the likes of Vitamin C and Pineapple). Whether you’re a scrub fanatic or you’re new to the idea, Tree Hut’s range of Shea Sugar Scrubs will transform your body scrub regime and leave your skin feeling and looking great. About Tree Hut Tree Hut believes that that everyone deserves to take time in their day to feel good and their products are designed to elevate your daily beauty rituals. With Tree Hut you can transform a simple hygiene routine into an indulgent self-care session thanks to their feel-good, filled-with-goodness product range. Ready for a feel good glow from head to toe? Sweeten your self-care routine with Tree Hut’s affordable, quality body care products and make every day a spa day. SHOP www.medhealthsup.com and visit www.treehutshea.com for more information. Follow Tree Hut on social media: Facebook: Tree Hut South Africa Instagram: @treehut_southafrica

July 10, 2023

Retailer Alerts of Dangers of Buying Second-Hand Baby Goods

The second-hand infant goods market in South Africa is rapidly growing, providing much-needed affordable products and financial relief for families across the country who are struggling with the rising cost of living. First-time parents in South Africa spend on average upwards of R100,000 a year to raise a child and nursery set-up costs alone surge to more than R5,000. Despite the financial reprieve of purchasing second hand items, Babies R Us advises caution when purchasing some second-hand baby goods as they may have been recalled or are unsafe. The second-hand infant goods market is estimated to be worth around a billion rand with the primary buyers in South Africa from low-income families. Most purchased second hand items include clothes, toys, furniture, and equipment. According to a report last year by Mercari in the United States, 62 percent of parents purchased second-hand baby and kid products last year, with 58.7 percent of those surveyed doing so to save money. “As a retailer we understand parents are always looking for ways to save money when it comes to purchasing baby items, such as clothes, toys, and furniture,” she adds. “Unfortunately, buying some second-hand baby goods can have serious consequences for your child’s safety and health.” “There are a number of challenges in the second-hand infant goods market,” according to Catherine Jacoby, Marketing Manager at Babies r Us. “The primary being the lack of regulation and meeting safety standards which means it is difficult to ensure the quality and safety of the products.” She explains that South Africa does not have its own set of safety standards in place to regulate many infant related products, specifically those that are produced locally. “It’s not just about safety standards though, there’s a growing global concern of products being sold in the second-hand market that have been recalled for safety reasons.” According to a report by Kids in Danger, a non-profit organisation focused on children’s product safety, last year, the United States had the highest number of children’s product recalls since 2013 impacting everything from baby products to kids’ clothes and toys. Nursery products, items like strollers and baby swings, accounted for over half of the more than 5 million units of children’s products recalled in 2022 alone, the report found. By way of example she adds, the U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is currently calling on Meta and a well-respected manufacturer to recall a product being sold on Facebook Marketplace. The item in question has been linked to the deaths of approximately 100 infants which was recalled in 2019 ten years after it had been on the market. It is estimated that there are still over a million still in circulation having not been returned which are now being sold on sites like Facebook Marketplace. “Every parent wants their baby to be safe, but once the market is flooded with an unsafe product, it’s hard to bring it back,” she says. “Infant products make their way onto second hand sites, they’re in day-cares, at charitable organisations and have even been handed down to family members.” Jacoby notes however, that although it’s totally fine to buy second-hand for some products like clothes, some toys and even furniture, not every product can be safely bought second hand as some of these items are not subjected to the same safety standards as new items. “Experts advise that items like car seats, highchairs, strollers and cots should be bought new to ensure they meet the current safety standards and haven’t been recalled, don’t have any peeling paint, chips, or missing parts. “This ensures that the product is safety checked, you are notified if there are any issues with it and you can be assured of the safety of the product,” she explains. Additionally, Jacoby adds, used baby items may contain bacteria or viruses, which can cause serious illnesses in infants. It is important to clean and inspect them thoroughly before allowing your child to use them. “Our advice to parents is to research the products you are buying second hand, keep an eye out for great deals on new items and if you’re purchasing second hand items ensure you clean and inspect them properly,” she concludes. For more information visit: www.babiesrus.co.za

July 10, 2023

What to expect in the early days after the birth of your baby

First-time moms are often anxious about what to expect after bringing baby home for the first time. During those precious first few days you may experience a rollercoaster of emotions. There’s the pure joy of finally having baby in your arms, the excitement of what’s to come, the stress and anxiety over whether or not you’re doing everything correctly and of course the pure exhaustion that comes with sleepless nights.

July 4, 2023

Buying Second-Hand Baby Items – What you should and shouldn’t do

From strollers and cribs to clothes and diapers, the amount of stuff your little one requires can add up quickly. To cut costs, many parents-to-be scour the internet for used baby gear and welcome hand-me-downs. According to a survey conducted by Everyday Health Group, 66 percent of new or expecting moms report having bought second-hand baby gear. This money-saving technique is especially common among Gen Z with 76 percent of Gen Z respondents saying they’ve purchased second-hand baby gear, compared to only 63 percent of Millennial and 55 percent of Gen X respondents. Buying used baby gear or accepting hand-me-downs from friends and family can save money — but not everything is safe to use twice. Experts in all things baby, Babies R Us provides some useful tips on what you can reuse or buy second-hand, and what you should buy new. According to Catherine Jacoby, Marketing Manager at Babies R Us, “It’s important to only choose safety approved and tested products. “The benefit of buying these sorts of products whether new or used is that you will know if the product is reliable, you can check if there have been any recalls, the product has been assessed for possible hazards, the materials used are safe and the risks are minimised.” Car safety seats: Experts say you should try to avoid buying or borrowing a used car seat. It is important that you are aware of the seat’s entire history. She suggests asking questions around accident damage, checking the number for any recalls and whether the seat comes with the original manual. “If you are considering a used car seat, look for the label that includes model name, number and manufacturing expiration dates. In South Africa it should have the standard specification SABS 1340 and bear the certification mark,” she adds. “Car seats expire, typically between 6 to 8 years so ensure you understand when the item was bought and check manufacturing details on the label.” Playpens and portable cots: Find out if it was made after 2013, the latest safety updates were issued in 2012. “If you purchase a second-hand one, consider purchasing a new mattress to ensure safety and make sure the mesh has no tears and holes are smaller than 0.5cm. Strollers and prams: If you’re buying second-hand check when the stroller or pram was made, if it was after 2015, they are ok to reuse. “Safety standards have changed since then to address stability, impact and shoulder strap safety,” Jacoby says. “Look for broken or missing parts, check that it is sturdy, and you should ensure it has an instruction manual.” Highchairs: Safety standards require a highchair to have a five-point harness to prevent climbing out and a fixed crotch post so the baby can’t slide out and avoid highchairs with removable trays or arms that lift over the baby’s head. Jacoby cautions that if a second-hand highchair does not have these in place, you should consider purchasing new. Are used cots safe? The short answer she says, is no. “It’s advised that you do not buy a used crib. New rules for how cribs are made were instituted in 2011 and essentially this means that most cots sold before that date are obsolete and technically unsafe. “Research suggests that drop-side cots have been found to be particularly dangerous so much so that in the United States they are no longer allowed to be sold,” she explains. “Rather buy a new crib that meets new safety standards and if you can’t afford one rather purchase a portable one which is more cost-effective.” Toys and other furniture: There’s nothing wrong with buying any additional furniture like rocking chairs or changing tables for your nursery second-hand. My advice Jacoby says is to check that the items don’t have any peeling paint, chips or missing parts. “When buying second-hand toys or accepting hand-me-downs, be sure to check if any items have been recalled due to defects or safety concerns,” she adds. “It’s important that you clean and sterilise all second-hand items before handing them to your child.” “All parents want the best for their children, if you’re ever unsure about an item it is worth discussing it with an expert who will guide you,” Jacoby says. “Our team of baby experts at Babies R Us are enthusiastic, knowledgeable and willing to assist you on your parenting journey.” “We are constantly finding ways to make infant products more affordable without compromising on quality or safety standards,” she adds. “It’s always a good idea to keep an eye out for seasonal or sale specials which also assists in making these items a little lighter on the pocket.” For more information visit: www.babiesrus.co.za

July 3, 2023

Why teach your children to be a team player?

A team player is constantly reliable day in and day out, not just some of the time. You can count on them to get the job done, meet deadlines, keep their word and provide consistent quality work. Learning to work in a team is undoubtedly one of the most important skills that one can learn and has been identified as a crucial component of 21st century learning. As a result, many schools and curricula have placed a renewed emphasis on group-work and collaboration to equip students with these vital skills. The elements of being a team player are varied and great in number. The trust factor is undeniably at the heart of all things related to teamwork. Having the faith to delegate tasks and allowing individuals the freedom to make decisions requires a great degree of trust. It boils down to putting your fate and that of the team’s in the hands of others. Other vital components include commitment to the team-goal, selflessness and an ability to compromise. Ultimately, it is about putting the group ahead of yourself. Consequently, it remains my firm belief that the sports field remains one of the most effective “classrooms” in terms of learning to be a team player. Having to cope with the teams expectations and being responsible for motivating your teammates while having to cope with your own inner doubts are daunting at the best of times. These demands are often magnified by the fact that the sporting contest often takes place in the public arena thereby increasing the fear of failure. Unsurprisingly many of our strongest and most character building memories revolve around these sporting moments be they making the last-ditch tackle to stop a try, scoring the winning goal or consoling a teammate after their mistake cost the team. These moments often have an impact on our self-confidence and character long after the occasion has passed and often serve to inspire us to even greater things. It is undeniable that being part of a team does leave one vulnerable as it takes the individual out of their comfort zone. This aspect makes teamwork both challenging and rewarding. To celebrate an achievement brought about by a united effort remains one of the greatest sensations and allows us a bonding experience with our fellow people that is irreplaceable. It remains my firm belief that teamwork remains one of humanity’s greatest assets and its unlimited potential will undoubtedly be vital in overcoming our political, economic and social challenges that currently beset our world. By: Farone Eckstein, Principal of Trinityhouse High Randpark Ridge

June 30, 2023

Cookie	Duration	Description
cookielawinfo-checkbox-advertisement	1 year	The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Advertisement".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional	11 months	The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy	11 months	The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.

Cookie	Duration	Description
_ga	2 years	This cookie is installed by Google Analytics. The cookie is used to calculate visitor, session, campaign data and keep track of site usage for the site's analytics report. The cookies store information anonymously and assign a randomly generated number to identify unique visitors.
_gid	1 day	This cookie is installed by Google Analytics. The cookie is used to store information of how visitors use a website and helps in creating an analytics report of how the website is doing. The data collected including the number visitors, the source where they have come from, and the pages visted in an anonymous form.

Cookie	Duration	Description
_gat_gtag_UA_18530557_4	1 minute	No description
pron_ip	session	No description
pvc_visits[0]	1 day	This cookie is created by post-views-counter. This cookie is used to count the number of visits to a post. It also helps in preventing repeat views of a post by a visitor.
tk_ai	session	Gathers information for WordPress by themselves, first party analytics tool about how WP services are used. A collection of internal metrics for user activity, used to improve user experience.