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Advice from the experts

Due soon? What to include in your hospital bag

With your due date fast approaching, this is a very exciting, yet stressful time for most moms to be. Here is a great list of what to pack for the big day! Ideally, you should have your bag ready to go by 36 to 37weeks, apart from the last minute grabs such as your tooth brush and phone charger. Please see our extensive list of the essential items and also items to make you feel more comfortable for mom and baby (and dad, of course!) Baby Car seat – Many hospitals won’t let you leave without one. Please make sure you know how to strap baby properly into the seat and the seat is secure in the car. Safety first! A going home outfit: It’s important to keep baby skin to skin (this means no clothes on baby; only a nappy) for as long as possible, as this promotes growth, bonding and a calming period for you and your baby. When it’s time to go home, pack different outfits in different sizes as you don’t know how big or small baby will be. Aim for an outfit in Newborn sizes, and 0-3 months. Don’t forget a beanie or socks if the weather is cold. Blankets or Muslin wrap to keep baby nice and cosy. Bottles – If you are going into the hospital knowing you are going to bottle feed, take your bottles with. The hospital usually supplies the formula, but if you have a preferred brand, take some along. If breastfeeding doesn’t work for you, don’t stress! The nurses will provide the bottles and formula. Nappies and wipes to keep baby clean and dry. The nurses in the hospital will show you how to change baby if you are a first time mom. Mom Your medical aid information, your pre authorization/ doctors forms, your ID card and all other important documents you may need. Keep this safely in a folder all together to avoid any stress. A robe or dressing gown – This is such a handy item to have to cover up and make you feel comfortable Pyjama’s that button down at the front – If you are breastfeeding it’s a lot easier to undo the buttons than lift your top continuously. Comfortable, soft and loose pants such as lights weight shorts, stretchy leggings or sleep pants are ideal. Maternity pads and disposable breast pads. Nursing bras are also wonderful and offers great support for breastfeeding moms. Slippers or slip in shoes. Your feet may be a little swollen after delivery, so don’t feel bad leaving the hospital in the snuggest and easiest pair of shoes you can slip into. Slipper socks also work great. Cotton underwear, preferably in a dark or black colour. One that fits you well but rises above the uterus. This is good for moms who have a caesarean section and natural birth as it offers support and doesn’t cause pain along the wound site. Nipple cream – If you’re planning on breastfeeding, your nipples will be happy you are being so proactive. Toiletries – You will want to brush your hair and have a shower after baby has arrived. Take your shampoo, face cream, lotion and body wash, as well as your toothbrush and toothpaste. Deodorant, lip balm and extra hair ties are also a great items to have on hand. Cell phone charger – Because your phone will be full of photos of your new addition to your family. Water bottle and snacks. Take a reusable water bottle as its very important to keep hydrated during and post-delivery. Snack on dried fruit and wine gums to keep your sugar up and to give you energy (with permission from your midwife or doctor of course) A magazine or book, your laptop or some music. Labour may sometimes become a little long. It’s good to keep busy. Most hospitals and birthing clinics supply towels, pillows and blankets. If you have a favourite, take yours along to the hospital. A set of clothes to go home in. Your make up bag and straightener or curling iron. While you won’t be focused on looking great during labour, you may want to take some photos after the birth of your little one. Get someone to help you and make you feel good about yourself (and the great work you’ve just done!) Dad/Birthing partner Camera – Take photos! Lots of them. This is a great job for dad to do during birth. It will make them feel a lot more involved. Snacks: Another great job for dad. Full his bag with plenty of snacks and treats that you can both enjoy during your stay. Comfortable clothes – As he may be sitting with you for quite some time, let him pack some tracksuit pants, t shirts, slippers and hoodies. Extra underwear is also a winner if he is staying overnight. Chargers – For phones, laptops and cameras. The longer the wire, the better, as most plug outlets are likely to be far from you. Toiletries – He may want to freshen up during the course of your stay. Many private hospitals offer you a baby bag when you are admitted for delivery. This is a great item and will contain most, if not all baby’s toiletries such as soap and creams. If you forget something, it’s not the end of the world. The nurses may be able to help or someone can go to the shop for you. All baby ideally needs is a clean nappy, milk, and most importantly, you.

July 1, 2026

How To Help Your Child Succeed in School: A Parent Guide

Every parent is eager to raise an independent learner and, at the same time, to help their child succeed in school. For most parents, there’s a bit of a balancing act that goes into encouraging children to solve their own problems while also giving them the support they need. The balancing begins as early as preschool. When a child is learning to write his or her name, you may draw dots on a piece of paper for them to trace, then fewer dots, progressing gradually to writing one letter on their own, then all of them. You are giving them guidance, but you can’t hold the pencil for them, or they will never be able to write it themselves. That’s the challenge you’ll face as your children progress through their school years, and some parents find it more difficult to strike that balance as their children get older and the tasks and challenges get bigger. In this guide, we offer suggestions on how to give your children the support they need and be their advocate through their school years while allowing them to learn from their mistakes and be an independent learner. Developing Good Learning Habits Even before children start kindergarten, parents can help them succeed in school by creating a schedule conducive to learning and instilling good learning habits. Children thrive when kept on a schedule, and that includes regular bedtimes, wakeup times and mealtimes. For school-age children, having a set time to do homework, chores and any after-school activities, such as Kumon, sports or piano practice, is essential to helping kids learn to fit everything into the day. Good sleep habits can help a child stay healthy and wake up rested and ready to learn every day. Children need time after dinner to wind down before bed. They should avoid caffeine and overstimulation. Video games and other digital devices that emit blue light are best enjoyed earlier in the day, as blue light stimulates the brain and suppresses production of melatonin, which helps people sleep. An evening routine that includes a bath or shower before reading a bedtime story works for many families. A bath and book becomes a signal to kids that they need to slow down and prepare for bed. Getting an adequate amount of sleep is good for the mind and the body. Sleep helps children focus better in school and can help them retain information that they learned during the day. Sleep is necessary for a child’s healthy growth and is restorative for the body, allowing kids to fend off illness. Getting enough sleep has even been linked to helping kids fight or manage diabetes and ADHD. A good night’s sleep allows children to recharge before they start another busy day of learning. How To Encourage Reading There is very little you can do to support your child’s learning more than help them become strong readers. In kindergarten and throughout most of elementary school, children are very focused on learning to read. After they have become proficient readers, however, their attention turns to reading to learn other subjects. How is a student going to learn about history or science if they can’t read a textbook or article? A good start toward raising a reader is to ingrain reading in their daily schedule. That starts long before children can read themselves with bedtime stories and reading books for fun every day. It also helps when children see their parents or older siblings reading for enjoyment, so they think of reading as something to be done for pleasure rather than a chore. With young children, reading aloud together not only helps them learn that reading is fun but also to become more fluent readers. Listening to their parents read aloud teaches children to read at a proper pace accurately and expressively. It also allows the parent to listen and ask questions to help them improve reading comprehension. As children grow and become more comfortable reading silently, you can continue to prompt them with questions to ensure they understand what they are reading. Ask, “What was the story about? How did it end? What do you think will happen next?” To help children build their vocabulary, you may also want to encourage them to write down new words they come across in a journal. Attend Parent Meetings One way in which you can actively support your child in school is to make a point of attending parent meetings. First term parent meetings especially give you and an opportunity to meet the teachers, check out the classrooms and get a glimpse into some of what students will be learning through the year. Teacher expectations, methods of communication and essential information for study will go a long way towards helping you and your child to navigate the year more successfully. Finding out when you should look out for homework and study communications especially will help you avoid unpleasant surprises, like a Sunday night “I forgot to do this project” situation. Helping your child learn to manage a teacher’s expectations and stay on top of assignments starts in kindergarten, and it will serve them well throughout their school career. When To Express Concerns As your child progresses through school, there will undoubtedly be bumps in the road. Listen carefully to what your child tells you about problems at school. For example, a child may come home and say, “I got in trouble today, because my teacher doesn’t like me.” That kind of comment could stem from a number of issues, including that a child doesn’t understand the material and so did not do the homework; that a child was not listening to the teacher and was reprimanded; or that the child and the teacher are having a personality clash. To determine the next steps, if any are required, you will need to home in on the root of the problem and address it. The child may need a tutor or additional help to understand difficult material. You may

June 25, 2026

Game on. School Holiday Fun Kicks Off at Mall of Africa

The Goal Zone brings football-themed family fun, prizes and competition to the winter school holidays Johannesburg, 11 June 2026: This winter school holiday, Mall of Africa will bring energy, excitement and a healthy dose of friendly competition to fire up the soccer spirit of the World Cup with The Goal Zone, Winter’s Ultimate Playoff, an action-packed indoor football experience designed to keep children moving, laughing and entertained. Running from Friday 3 to Monday 13 July in the Food Court, the immersive play experience will transform this part of the mall into an interactive soccer-themed activity zone where children, teens and even competitive parents can put their skills to the test across seven exciting challenges. Open daily from 10am to 8pm, tickets will be available at the activation area for R50 per participant. Visitors will stand a chance to win incredible prizes, including 1 of 5 official Bafana Bafana jerseys, 5 x R1 000 Studio 88 vouchers and spot prizes from EL&N, Honor, Lego, McDonalds, New Balance, Spur, Totalsports and Toy Kingdom. The first 100 participants through The Goal Zone will have the opportunity to customise a Krispy Kreme Original Glazed doughnut. Winter Holiday Fun with a Competitive Twist Created as a high-energy school holiday attraction, The Goal Zone activities will include a mix of football skills, speed, coordination and playful rivalry, giving young fans the chance to celebrate the game, test their skills and soak up the excitement of the World Cup. Whether visitors are showing off fancy footwork or simply trying something new, the experience is designed to entertain a wide range of ages, with selected challenges designed for the whole family to enjoy, while bringing a lively, sporty atmosphere to the winter break. Visitors will be able to test their power in Speed Kick, take aim in Beat the Keeper, sharpen reaction times at the Reflex Wall, or put their accuracy to the test in Through the Hoops. Those looking for something a little different will be able to try their hand at Footgolf, challenge friends and family in Sit Down Soccer, or see how long they can keep the ball in the air during Keepie Uppies. Created to mimic an indoor astroturf-style arena complete with playful sporting touches, The Goal Zone will bring all the excitement of a match-day atmosphere into a fun, family-friendly holiday experience. A School Holiday Outing with Extra Energy As cooler weather settles in, The Goal Zone will offer families an indoor activity that encourages children to stay active while adding something different to the school holiday calendar. Positioned in the heart of the mall, the football experience will also make it easy for families to pair the experience with lunch, shopping or a full day out. Whether it is siblings competing for bragging rights, friends challenging one another to beat the leaderboard or parents quietly proving they still have a winning kick, The Goal Zone is all about getting involved, having fun and making winter holiday memories. The Goal Zone will run from 3–13 July 2026 in the Mall of Africa Food Court. Tickets are available onsite for R50 per participant. For more information and regular updates on Mall of Africa, its stores and events, follow the mall on social media at Instagram: @_themallofafrica or visit the mall’s website: mallofafrica.co.za.

June 22, 2026

Why Early Maths Matters – Building Number Sense Alongside Reading

We know how important it is to develop a child’s early reading foundation; it is often the first step in opening the doors to language, creativity, and lifelong learning. Equally important, and sometimes overlooked, is early Maths development. Building number sense from a young age helps children grow confident and sets the stage for future learning success, which is just as important as those first words you read together. Children often remember the books they read with their parents; wouldn’t it be amazing to provide a memory of the first time they tackled addition? Is Reading More Important? Early reading skills are celebrated for good reasons. Recognising letters and their sounds is essential for reading, and an emerging print awareness helps children communicate and understand their world. Yet, early Maths skills are just as important. Early exploration of numbers, patterns, and simple addition through everyday games builds strong mathematical reasoning that will be carried through a child’s life. Perhaps you have an older child struggling with word problems in Maths. Typically, those challenges are related to reading comprehension difficulties. However, if the student cannot solve the mathematical operations associated with the word problem, then the whole situation becomes much more challenging to rectify. Reading is important, but a balanced approach of learning both Maths and reading lays the foundation for well-rounded lifelong learning. Making Sense of Number Sense Number sense means understanding how numbers work and relate to each other. Children build this skill through everyday activities, such as counting toys, sorting snacks, spotting patterns, and playing with shapes. Kumon’s early Maths worksheets use this concept by way of counting colourful objects and shapes to help children begin to learn the number sequence, and how to group items. As the levels progress, children learn to write numbers, master the number sequence, and understand simple addition, gradually, and at their own individualised pace. Mental calculation is encouraged early, helping children learn to add without the need for finger counting. These simple experiences with numbers and patterns lay the groundwork for more advanced mathematical concepts seen later in life. Unique Benefits of Early Maths Early Maths skills help children develop logical thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving abilities. Maths is part of everyday life whether it’s measuring ingredients, keeping time, comparing quantities, counting change, or budgeting allowance. These overarching life skills stem from an early understanding of numbers and identifying patterns. Children who feel comfortable with numbers gain confidence to tackle more complex Maths as they grow. Teaching Maths early, when children are eager to learn, sets the stage for future success both in and out of the classroom. As a bonus, we’ve found that preschoolers who study consistently often speed up their rate of progress as they advance, rather than slowing down. This early exposure to Maths can unlock significant potential for future learning. In fact, in a long-term study of students from the time of school readiness through later academic achievement, researchers found that early Maths skill development mattered the most as a predictor of not just later academic Maths success, but later reading success, too. Taking the Fear out of Maths While your child may be Kindergarten-aged or younger currently, they won’t be so forever. In the blink of an eye, your child will be immersed in higher level Maths concepts: multiplication, division, fractions, orders of operations, algebra, and beyond! Unfortunately for some older students, Maths can become a source of fear and frustration. When students have a weak mathematical foundation, every new concept that is built upon the previous becomes that much more challenging. While we can certainly turn these struggling students around and unlock their full mathematical potential, it’s much simpler to nurture a love for Maths when children are young and enthusiastic. Similarly to how you may be aware that a second (or third!) language can be more easily taught from an early age, think of Maths as another language more easily taught when young. Easy Ways to Foster Early Maths at Home Let’s Grow Strong Foundations Together Just as reading opens minds, early Maths opens doors to new ways of thinking and school readiness. Supporting number sense alongside literacy helps your child succeed in life. Kumon’s Maths Programme can complement your child’s reading journey, and your Instructor can support you in determining when to add Maths into your child’s routine. Let’s inspire curiosity, build confidence, and nurture a love for learning, one number at a time. To find out more about what Kumon has to offer, visit www.kumon.co.za. This article is courtesy of the Kumon North America website* * https://www.kumon.com/resources/why-early-math-matters-building-number-sense-alongside-reading/

June 18, 2026

Preparing your home for your baby

Waiting for you baby to arrive is both exciting and nerve wrecking. In order to mentally prepare yourself and your family, you can start getting your home ready for the newest addition of your household. The urge to get your home ready for your baby is also known as nesting, and it’ll normally happen near the end of your third trimester. If you are ready to start spring cleaning, here are some tips on how best to organise your home for little one. Have everything ready for your return from the hospital When you and your baby return from hospital you’ll probably be feeling tired and sore, so making sure your home is ready before you go into labour is a good idea. Food prep, cleaning and buying home supplies are all things that’ll become more difficult with a newborn. Meal prepping, having a stocked baby changing table and home essentials stock piled will all be things you’ll be glad to have done beforehand. Baby proofing your home Baby proofing your home can ideally start up to 3 months before your due date, as this will give you time for any projects that may take slightly longer. Cover all electrical sockets, get safety latches for cabinets and get rid of any loose or dangling cords. Not only can you take your time prepping your home, but you can also make sure that you are ready with baby essentials, such as a changing table, a baby monitor and newborn baby clothes. All things you don’t want to be looking for postpartum with a baby to look after. Don’t over do it Although it can be tempting to go full throttle with home adjustments there are certain things you should avoid to prevent injuring yourself. Don’t move large furniture, as your ligaments and tendons are softened by pregnancy hormones, making a strain or injury more likely. Avoid reaching too high, as this can put strain on your lower back (which may already be achy). Delegating to your family and friends eager to help will give you the opportunity to rest while making sure that your home is perfect for your newest addition.

June 16, 2026

Forget the Socks: Why More Dads Are Choosing Play This Father’s Day

For decades, Father’s Day has been synonymous with socks, ties, and novelty mugs. Still, a growing number of families are choosing gifts that tap into nostalgia, shared interests, and the joy of play. From LEGO builds and Hot Wheels collectibles to movie-inspired merchandise and family games, many of today’s Father’s Day gifts are designed to be treasured, displayed, and enjoyed. For many dads, they represent more than just presents; they are keepsakes that celebrate passions, memories, and moments shared with family. According to Toys R Us, Father’s Day gifting is increasingly being shaped by a desire for connection. Families are moving beyond conventional presents and choosing gifts that encourage shared experiences, celebrate personal interests, and create opportunities for meaningful time together. The trend reflects a broader shift towards gifting rooted in nostalgia, play, and relationship-building rather than purely in practicality. While children have long been recognised as the primary beneficiaries of play, research shows that play is equally important for adults. It can reduce stress, strengthen relationships, improve wellbeing and create meaningful opportunities for connection in an increasingly busy and digital world. “Many dads appreciate gifts that reflect who they are and the things they love,” says Catherine Jacoby, Marketing Manager at Toys R Us South Africa. “We’re seeing more families choose gifts that tap into shared interests, nostalgia and the joy of spending time together.” “Whether it’s adding a special collectible to a display shelf, building something side-by-side, or introducing children to a hobby they’ve loved for years, these gifts create meaningful moments and lasting memories for both generations,” she explains. “From building a LEGO set together, racing Hot Wheels cars across the lounge floor or spending an afternoon immersed in a favourite movie franchise, those shared moments often become the most memorable gift of all.” She adds that the shift is reflected in growing demand for products that appeal to both children and adults. LEGO continues to expand its range of advanced building sets aimed at older builders, while collectibles linked to major entertainment franchises such as Star Wars, Masters of the Universe, Marvel, Formula 1 and Pixar are increasingly finding their way into Father’s Day gift baskets”. “For many fathers, what is particularly special is when their passions are shared with the next generation,” she says. “Play is one of the most powerful ways families connect, creating moments where dads and children can bond over common interests and experiences.” Toys R Us has identified several Father’s Day gifting trends emerging this year: Build Together Advanced LEGO sets, vehicle builds and construction projects that offer a shared activity rather than a one-time gift. Collect Together From Hot Wheels premium collections to movie-inspired collectibles, fathers and children are increasingly building collections side by side. Fandom-Fuelled Play Franchises such as Star Wars, Spider-Man, Masters of the Universe and Toy Story continue to inspire cross-generational play and collecting. Games Night Returns Board games, card games and family challenges are seeing renewed popularity as families look for screen-free ways to spend time together. Jacoby notes that the trend reflects a broader cultural shift towards experiences and connection over consumption. “Father’s Day doesn’t need to be complicated; the best gift is often simply creating the space to play together. Years from now, children are unlikely to remember another pair of socks or a new coffee mug,” she concludes. “They will remember the LEGO model they built with Dad, the races they won and lost, and the time they spent laughing together, and that’s the kind of gift that never goes out of fashion.”

June 15, 2026

Five Myths About ‘School Readiness’ – And What Actually Matters

For many parents, the question of whether a child is “school-ready” can bring an unforeseen sense of pressure. One moment, a child is happily painting, building sandcastles or pretending to run a bakery for dinosaurs, and the next, parents find themselves worrying about alphabet recognition, counting milestones and whether enough has been done to prepare for formal schooling. According to Dibber International Preschools, much of this anxiety is fuelled by outdated assumptions about what school readiness should look like. In reality, readiness for school is less about perfection and early academic performance and more about emotional confidence, curiosity, resilience, and connection. “At Dibber, we believe school readiness is not about raising the child who can do the most before school starts,” says Ursula Assis, Country Director of Dibber International Preschools South Africa. “It is about helping children feel secure enough to try, to adapt, to build relationships and to enjoy learning. Those are the foundations that help children settle and thrive.” Dibber notes that one of the most common myths parents continue to face is the belief that children must know how to read before they start school. While early reading can be positive, it is not the defining marker of future success. Children develop literacy at different paces, and pushing academics too early can create unnecessary pressure. What matters more is regular exposure to language through meaningful everyday experiences such as storytelling, music, conversation and play. This is why Dibber’s Nordic-inspired approach focuses on curiosity, communication and confidence in the early years, rather than rushing formal academics. In quality early learning environments, children build strong foundations for literacy through joyful experiences that make learning seem natural and engaging. Another persistent myth is the idea that a school-ready child should already be able to sit still, listen quietly and behave with constant composure. Dibber points out that young children are naturally wired for movement, and that running, climbing, jumping and exploring are all part of healthy development. School readiness should not be confused with early compliance. Instead, children gradually learn self-regulation through warm relationships, steady routines and patient support. A child who can follow simple instructions, move between activities, express feelings and recover after frustration is already developing valuable readiness skills, even if those moments are accompanied by the occasional protest or wobble. “There is a tendency to confuse readiness with behaviour that looks convenient to adults,” adds Assis. “But readiness is not about turning young children into miniature adults. It is about helping them grow in confidence, emotional security and the ability to participate in the world around them.” Dibber also highlights the misconception that academic skills matter more than social and emotional development. While parents often focus on counting, shapes, writing names and other visible milestones, early childhood educators know that social-emotional skills are just as important in helping children settle into school successfully. A child who can ask for help, share space with others, manage disappointment and feel emotionally secure is often better prepared for school life than a child who can recite information but struggles with separation, frustration or group interaction. Warm, responsive adults play an essential role in helping children develop these capacities, as they build confidence, independence and trust in themselves over time. Another myth Dibber is encouraging parents to let go of is the belief that school readiness should look the same for every child. No two children develop in exactly the same way. One child may be highly verbal but still building fine-motor strength, while another may be quiet in a group yet observant, thoughtful, and independent. Readiness is not a one-size-fits-all checklist completed on a deadline. It is a gradual process shaped by personality, environment, relationships and opportunities to explore. For this reason, Dibber believes parents should be careful not to judge readiness through comparison. Children develop best when they feel emotionally encouraged rather than pressured to perform. A nurturing environment which respects each child’s pace can have a significant impact on how confidently they enter formal learning. Finally, Dibber is challenging the idea that preparing children for school means introducing more worksheets and formal tasks as early as possible. Children learn most effectively through meaningful experiences. Building towers supports problem-solving. Pretend play develops language and creativity. Outdoor play strengthens coordination, confidence and risk awareness. Far from being “just play”, these experiences help build the brain connections that support memory, emotional management, learning and social understanding. This is why Dibber’s learning model places such strong value on play, movement, relationships and exploration alongside early academics. The goal is not to remove structure, but to ensure that learning remains developmentally appropriate, joyful and connected to the real needs of young children. For Dibber, real school readiness means helping children learn to communicate their needs, build relationships, adapt to routines, manage emotions gradually, explore independently, and remain curious about the world. Perhaps most importantly, it means helping children recognise that mistakes are not defeats, but part of learning. “Parents do not need to chase perfection in the early years,” says Assis. “Children need support, connection, opportunities to play and adults who believe in their potential. Sometimes the best preparation for school is simply allowing children to enjoy being children first.” For Dibber, that remains one of the most important truths in early childhood education: when children feel safe, supported and free to grow at their own pace, they are far better prepared not only for school, but for life.

June 11, 2026

The Baby Bottle Designed Around the Way Families Actually Live

Modern parenthood is full and demanding. Between feeding schedules, work, household responsibilities, and the quiet weight of wanting to do everything well, parents today are navigating more than any previous generation has been expected to manage simultaneously. Baby feeding products have not always kept pace with that reality. Snugglebuds.Co was founded on a straightforward belief that well-designed feeding essentials should support the full life of a family, not just one moment within it. Feeding on Baby’s Terms The Snugglebuds.Co Silicone Anti-Colic Hands-Free Baby Feeding Bottle is designed for babies and engineered around the natural rhythm of how babies feed. The bottle is constructed from high-quality PP and silicone materials that are completely BPA-free. Its self-supporting design allows baby to feed at their own pace and in their own time, while the variable flow velocity teat responds to each baby’s natural sucking rhythm never forcing the pace, always following it. The integrated anti-colic ventilation system manages airflow throughout the feed, significantly reducing the amount of air swallowed. The result is a more comfortable feeding experience, less post-feed discomfort, and a calmer, more settled baby. What makes this bottle distinct is not simply its design but its intention. It was created to give feeding time back to the baby comfortable, unhurried, and on their own terms while giving the family around them the freedom to be present in whatever way that moment requires. Feeding as a Shared Experience One of the quiet challenges of early parenthood is that feeding can feel like it belongs exclusively to one person. The Snugglebuds.Co Hands-Free Bottle gently changes that. Partners, grandparents, older siblings, and caregivers can all participate meaningfully in feeding without the physical complexity that sometimes makes bottle feeding feel inaccessible. Eye contact, conversation, closeness all of the things that make feeding a bonding experience remain fully intact. What changes is who gets to be part of it. The Snugglebuds.Co Feeding Range BPA-Free Wide Neck PP Baby Bottle. Designed for ease without compromise, the Snugglebuds.Co Wide Neck Bottle is among the most consistently reordered products in the range. The wide neck makes filling and thorough cleaning straightforward, while the BPA-free PP construction and compatibility with standard sterilisers make it a practical choice from the very first days. It is the kind of product that earns its place in a feeding routine quietly and reliably. Premium Silicone Baby Pacifier A pacifier is only as good as its hygiene. The Snugglebuds.Co silicone soother addresses this directly designed with an anti-dust cover, a leak-proof seal, and anti-oxidation silicone that maintains cleanliness between uses and withstands thorough washing without deteriorating. The pacifier is designed to support natural oral development during feeding and sleep. The Thinking Behind the Brand Every product in the Snugglebuds.Co range is designed from the same starting point that South African families deserve feeding essentials that are thoughtfully made, genuinely functional, and built around the complexity of real family life rather than an idealised version of it. Parenthood is not lived in perfect conditions. It is lived in the in-between moments, the tired ones, the busy ones, and the ones where several people are trying to show up at once. Snugglebuds.Co exists for all of those moments equally.

June 11, 2026

From “Can Read” to “Loves to Read”: The Difference Between Knowing How to Read and Being a Fluent, Confident Reader

Picture this: Your child picks up Cat in the Hat, struggles to sound out most of the words, gets to the end, and then… closes the book without a smile. There were no questions, no laughter, and no requests to find another humorous book to read. The task was simply completed, without joy and, likely, with frustration. Technically, they read the book. But did they really experience it? Compare this to the child who sits in the car and knows the ride will be long. They pull out the latest book they’re reading, find their place, and laugh to themselves at the antics of Diary of a Wimpy Kid. This is the heart of the difference between an emerging reader who knows the mechanics of how to read and being a fluent, confident reader. Understanding this difference can help you support your child in ways that make reading not just a task to be completed, but an experience worth actively engaging in. What is an Emerging Reader? Emerging reading is the middle step between pre-reading and greater reading fluency. It’s when a child can decode words on the page, matching letters to sounds, blending them together, and saying them aloud to make words and then sentences. Think of it like learning to play the piano: In the beginning, you’re concentrating on every finger placement, reading each note, and making sure you’re pressing the right keys at the right time. You can technically play a song, but it’s mentally exhausting and a bit nerve-wracking. It doesn’t feel enjoyable, and the song may sound clunky, with many pauses. For new readers, decoding takes so much brainpower that there’s little energy left for reading comprehension, and certainly not enjoyment. They’re busy thinking about what sound th makes and whether the c in race is pronounced the same way as in cup. This stage is important, but it should not be the last stage in the lifelong journey of becoming a reader. What is a Fluent and Confident Reader? Fluency is when reading feels smooth and natural. A fluent reader doesn’t just say the words; they understand them, feel them, and connect with them. True reading fluency provides: When kids reach this stage, reading becomes less of a chore and more like a treat. This is when children laugh at the jokes, gasp at surprises, and ask, “Can we go to the bookshop?” Why the Difference Matters Emerging reading is about accuracy while fluent reading is about using that accuracy to make meaning. An emerging reader may: Fluency opens doors not just to better grades, but to imagination, information, curiosity, and lifelong learning. How Do We Help Kids Make the Leap? To turn an emerging reader into a fluent one, you need connection, practice, and patience. Try these practical tips at home: But What If My Child Struggles to Move from Emerging to Confident? Remember: Every child moves at their own pace. Some need more time in the decoding phase before fluency kicks in, and that’s perfectly acceptable. Here’s what can help move your child forward: Lifelong readers may face struggles along the way, but the goal is to build enjoyment and a love of reading, which cannot be rushed. The Big Picture Knowing how to read is like learning where the keys are on a piano. Being a fluent, confident reader is like playing a favourite song effortlessly, your fingers dancing across the keys, music filling the room, and joy lighting up your face. While emerging reading gets kids started, fluency takes them places. With your support through shared reading, conversations, and encouragement, they’ll not only learn to read, but they’ll also learn to love it. Tonight, grab a book, snuggle up, and read together. Plan your next trip to the library or bookstore and build it up into a fun experience you’ll share. Intentionally read your own book while your child is near, showing what a reader looks like. Remember, every story you share brings your child one step closer to becoming a lifelong lover of reading. The Kumon English Programme aims to foster a love of reading and learning in every child. To find out more about what Kumon has to offer, visit www.kumon.co.za. This article is courtesy of the Kumon North America website* * https://www.kumon.com/resources/the-difference-between-knowing-how-to-read-and-being-a-fluent-confident-reader/

June 11, 2026

Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party makes winter wonderful!

Innovative technology and transformative performances bring Disney classics and new favourites to South African audiences Disney On Ice returns to South Africa for the winter school holidays! Audiences in Pretoria, Cape Town, and Durban, book your tickets to join Mickey Mouse and his friends at Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party, an adventure filled with world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics and unexpected stunts. Look for clues in the search for Tinker Bell through immersive, fantastic worlds. Explore the colourful spirit realm of Coco, sail away with Moana as she bravely saves her island, see Belle in the sky as the enchanted chandelier comes to life, and sing along with Elsa in the icy world of Frozen. Also, Stitch makes his Disney On Ice debut in South Africa, as he crashes the action with mischievous surprises! Make memories during Aladdin, Toy Story and The Little Mermaid as the search party becomes an all-out celebration, with spectacular special effects, cutting-edge technology, breathtaking performances, dazzling costumes, and all your beloved Disney characters and stories. Produced by Feld Entertainment, Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party is brought to South Africa by leading local promoter, Showtime Management and proudly presented in association with FNB. The show opens in Pretoria on Saturday, 27 June 2026 at SunBet Arena, Time Square and continues for a limited season ending on Sunday, 05 July 2026. Thereafter Disney On Ice skates into GrandWest, Cape Town on Friday, 10 July through Sunday, 19 July 2026, before moving to Durban’s International Convention Centre Arena from Friday, 24 July to Sunday, 26 July 2026. “We’ve been looking forward to opening this show since we confirmed these runs last year and we know fans can’t wait to join Mickey Mouse and his friends on their search for Tinker Bell,” says Tony Feldman of Showtime Management. “Partnering with FNB helps us bring all the magic and incredible special effects to the show – audiences will love it!” FNB Events Marketing Lead, Nkosana Matyeshana says the bank is proud to partner with Disney On Ice once again, to bring world-class family entertainment to South African audiences during the winter school holidays. “At FNB, we understand that families are looking for meaningful moments of connection and shared experiences, especially in an environment where daily financial pressures continue to shape household decisions. Through partnerships like this, we want to help make memorable experiences more accessible for our customers and their loved ones. Disney On Ice offers a unique opportunity for families to come together and step into a world of imagination and wonder, and we’re delighted to play a role in helping create those lasting memories. As a brand that’s focused on delivering help that is relevant and meaningful, this partnership reflects our commitment to creating real value for our customers by enabling experiences that bring them and their loved ones closer together.” The technology involved in bringing Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party and its world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics and unexpected stunts to audiences is incredible. Fifteen fully packed trucks bring the production to each venue and the ice-skating surface alone is 35 metres long and 18 metres wide. There are around 173 costumes used during the show, with costume changes of less than 30 seconds required in some instances! The largest prop weighs 450kg and the sets highest point towers 11m up in the air. The lighting design uses 221 fixtures, 185 of them moveable, and 12 powerful projectors create immersive, magical worlds. Sound wise, 100 groups of speakers deliver a massive 200,000 watts of power! It’s time for magic at Disney On Ice and tickets are selling fast! See Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald, Goofy and their friends from Moana, Coco, Frozen, Toy Story, Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, and The Little Mermaid. Tickets are now on sale for South Africa’s favourite family winter school holiday outing. Don’t delay, book at Ticketmaster.co.za or Showtime.co.za. Patrons are asked to please note that owing to safety regulations each person, irrespective of age (including babes in arms and children under two years) must have a purchased ticket. Fans are encouraged to only book through Ticketmaster.co.za the official authorised ticketing agent for Disney On Ice. Tickets from third parties will not be honoured. To discover more about Disney On Ice, log on to www.disneyonice.co.za or visit Disney On Ice on Facebook and YouTube.

June 10, 2026

What Parents Should Know About Medical Aid and ADHD Cover

Many parents only start looking into ADHD cover once school problems, emotional struggles or behaviour issues begin affecting everyday life. By then, specialist appointments, assessments and therapy sessions are often already being paid privately. One of the biggest misunderstandings I see as a medical aid broker is parents assuming every medical aid automatically covers the full ADHD process. In reality, benefits are usually spread across different parts of the plan. What Does Medical Aid Usually Cover? Some schemes may contribute towards: ADHD Service Common Funding Area Common Problem ADHD assessments Day-to-day benefits Savings run out quickly Psychologist visits Mental health benefits Session limits apply Occupational therapy Allied healthcare Strict annual caps ADHD medication Acute or chronic medicine Formularies apply Psychiatric admission Hospital benefit Pre-authorisation required Most parents are surprised by how quickly therapy costs build up once weekly sessions begin. ADHD Assessments Can Become Expensive ADHD assessments often involve multiple specialists. Assessment Type Typical Private Cost Educational assessment R3,000 – R8,000+ Clinical psychologist assessment R4,000 – R10,000+ Child psychiatrist consultation R2,000 – R5,000+ Paediatric assessment R1,500 – R4,000+ Occupational therapy screening Variable Some schemes may limit claims when assessments are done mainly for school support or academic accommodations. Therapy Costs Are Where Families Usually Feel Pressure Children with ADHD may require occupational therapy, behavioural therapy, speech therapy, psychology sessions or educational support. Therapy Type Common Challenge Occupational therapy Limited annual visits Child psychology Savings exhaustion Speech therapy Network restrictions Play therapy Often privately funded Behavioural therapy Not always fully covered I have seen many parents downgrade to cheaper hospital plans, only to realise later that most ADHD treatment happens outside the hospital environment. Is ADHD Medication Covered? Medication is usually covered more consistently than therapy, although schemes still apply formularies and pricing limits. Common ADHD medication includes: Medication Area What Usually Happens Acute medicine Limited annual cover Chronic medicine Registration often required Brand-name medication Co-payments may apply Generic alternatives Schemes usually prefer these Non-formulary medicine Members pay shortfalls Parents often become frustrated when a child responds well to a specific brand, but the scheme only funds the generic alternative. ADHD and PMBs ADHD itself is not automatically funded as a full Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) chronic condition. PMB Situation Typical Position Routine ADHD treatment Normal benefit limits Psychiatric hospital admission Possible PMB pathway Severe mental health crisis May qualify under PMB rules Therapy sessions Usually limited School support Generally excluded Many parents expect PMBs to cover ongoing therapy and specialist visits. Later, the accounts continue long after the available benefits are exhausted. Which Medical Aid Plans Usually Work Better? Comprehensive plans generally work better for ADHD because most treatment happens outside hospital. Medical Scheme Plan Type Often Preferred Discovery Health Comprehensive options Bonitas Higher-tier plans Bestmed Pace range Momentum Health Comprehensive plans Medihelp Broader family plans Final Thoughts ADHD treatment is rarely a once-off expense. For many families, the real financial pressure starts once long-term therapy, specialist appointments and medication management become ongoing monthly costs. That is why choosing the right medical aid matters. A cheaper hospital plan can sometimes lead to much higher out-of-pocket costs later. Written by: Adriaan Schoeman

June 9, 2026

Understanding Anxiety in Children, And How To Help Them Through It

Many parents will recognise the scene: a school morning that should be ordinary turns into something entirely different. There are tears at the gate, a stomach ache with no clear cause, and a child who, by every measurable standard, is fine, yet is clearly not fine at all. Anxiety in children rarely presents itself as anxiety; instead, it manifests as resistance, irritability, sleeplessness, sudden clinginess, or a sore tummy or tears on a Sunday evening. As South Africa focuses on our youth this June, we must consider the wellbeing of our young people, with mental health firmly included in that conversation. The scale of the issue The World Health Organisation estimates that around one in seven children and adolescents worldwide, aged 10 to 19, lives with a mental health condition (Sept, 2025). Anxiety disorders sit alongside depression and behavioural disorders as some of the most common. The numbers matter, but what matters more is our understanding of the disorder and how we can better support the child. Anxiety isn’t the enemy A useful place to start is by separating the feeling itself from the assumption that the feeling is a problem. Anxiety is, fundamentally, a sense of worry, fear or dread that won’t always respond to reason. It is also a normal and useful human emotion. A small dose of anxiety sharpens a child’s focus before an exam. It produces the energy that gets them onto the sports field with their head in the game. It is hard-wired into our survival system. Faced with genuine danger, the quickened heartbeat, the faster breathing, the sharper senses, are designed to keep us alive. Anxiety becomes a problem when it stops being situational and starts being constant- when the alarm system that should switch off after the threat passes simply does not switch off. At that point, anxiety stops protecting and starts interfering with daily life. One of the heaviest things many anxious children carry is not the anxiety itself but the judgement around it. So many of us were raised to believe we should not feel anxious in the first place, and that shame associated with this belief only compounds the worry. Children need to hear, clearly and often, that anxiety is normal and can be helpful. That it does not define them- it does not make them weak or bad. The moment they learn to notice it and put a name to it is the moment they start to take some control back. Awareness does not amplify anxiety, it quietly gives a child the confidence that they can cope. A useful reminder for any anxious child: “Feelings come and go. You felt different before, and you’ll feel different again.” What’s actually happening inside their head To support an anxious child well, it helps to understand what is happening at the level of the brain. Two parts of the brain do a lot of the heavy lifting here. The prefrontal cortex is the part responsible for focus, impulse control and flexible thinking – the rational executive. The amygdala is the part that processes emotions like fear – the alarm system. In a settled state, the prefrontal cortex keeps the amygdala in check, weighing up whether something is genuinely threatening. When a harmless situation gets misread as dangerous, however, the amygdala fires the alarm. The body switches into fight, flight, freeze or fawn mode. As anxiety climbs, the brain’s executive functioning takes a hit – logic goes offline. This is why telling an anxious child to “stop worrying, it’s not that bad” almost never works. To their brain and body, the threat is entirely real. We are not arguing with their thinking. We are arguing with their biology. What to look out for Part of the parental task is telling the difference between developmentally appropriate fears, everyday worries, and the kind of pattern that signals an actual anxiety disorder. Anxiety in children tends to show up in three ways: If several of these are showing up in your child persistently, and getting in the way of everyday life, that is the signal to take it seriously. What you can do to help Supporting an anxious child starts with the adults around them. Here are some practical approaches that work for the whole family. The goal is not a worry-free childhood Anxiety is not the enemy, it’s a normal, even necessary, human emotion. Learning to regulate emotions is a skill that children learn when they are supported by an adult. When we as the key adult co-regulate, they develop the metacognitive skills to regulate themselves. With patience, the right strategies, and steady support, we can teach our children something far more useful than a worry-free childhood. We can teach them: “I can feel anxious and still be okay.” For more resources, visit www.bellavista.org.za By Karen Archer, Deputy Principal, Bellavista School

June 8, 2026

6 Tips to Help Tackle Maths Anxiety in Children

Maths can often present challenges for students when it comes to understanding the material. Those who struggle may be taking longer than others on work aren’t able to solve assignments on their own, or are unable to complete tests. When they don’t feel confident in their skills and are aware that it is something they should be understanding in order to succeed. This can lead to feelings of Maths anxiety in children. When a student feels anxious about Maths, they are quick to doubt their abilities, feel frustrated and in turn avoid doing their work. Maths anxiety can start from the first time Maths is introduced to more complex Maths concepts. If you’re searching for ways to help your child work through and overcome their Maths anxiety, try the following tips: 1. Help them reframe their fixed mindset into a growth mindset: You may have heard your child say, “I hate Maths” or “I’m terrible at Maths, I don’t want to do it!” While it’s common for a student to think they’re terrible at Maths based on performance and their comfort level, remaining positive is imperative to their success. Repeatedly expressing negativity towards Maths can discourage their desire to improve and lead them to believe it’s just something they will never be good at. Instead, help your child with their growth mindset by having them think more positively. Show them that hard work combined with perseverance can help them improve their abilities. Thinking that “I can do it” versus “I’m not good at Maths” will help them feel more confident to work through the problems instead of not trying at all. 2. Enrol them in a supplemental Maths program: Maths anxiety may often occur because a student didn’t master foundational Maths skills. This makes it incredibly difficult to learn more advanced Maths concepts. To help them with these foundation skills, you will want to understand where they can improve and practice concepts. The Kumon Maths Programme is beneficial for a student struggling with Maths because the student will begin at a spot that is a comfortable starting place. Each student has different abilities and starting where your child is comfortable can help them build their knowledge at their own pace. They will practice regularly for 30 minutes per day which helps them to understand and retain knowledge. With consistent practice, students often can get on track which in turn builds their confidence in Maths and can often lead to them studying above grade level! 3. Praise their efforts: Praising your child’s efforts helps them see that problem solving isn’t always successful on the first try. It can be stressful to give the wrong answers or struggle to find the solution, but the process of how they attempted to get there is important! Seeing the steps taken will help you understand where they may have gotten off track and how to figure it out from there. When you praise their efforts, children are more likely to feel comfortable attempting to solve problems and learning how to correct their work. 4. Play Maths games: In addition to the Kumon Maths Programme, you can help your child practice Maths concepts daily by playing Maths games! This approach of practicing Maths concepts that will allow them to feel more comfortable improving their skills. Also, you can work on creating a fun Maths game with your child including concepts they find challenging. Creating a game can be a great way for them to be motivated to play something that they spent time making. It can be a game you play together as a family or one your child is excited to play with friends. This can help them feel more excited about Maths as they work through the game they created. 5. Add Maths into your daily routine: Maths is a part of our daily routines as adults, from calculating budgets to managing time on the calendar. Incorporating Maths into your child’s daily routine can show how Maths applies to real life. You can start by discussing components of Maths that relate to a certain task, sorting and counting items around the house, making a recipe together for dinner, or just about anything! Making Maths relatable and applying it to real-life scenarios can show how useful it is to know and why it’s important to continue studying to develop their skills. 6. Discuss the importance of time management: Time management can teach time, schedules, and planning in advance while instilling confidence in your child as they see the effects of being prepared. The Takeaway Maths anxiety can lead to students avoiding Maths work altogether and doubting their ability to improve their skills. Since every child has varying abilities, not every approach will work the same. Trying different tactics and working on developing your child’s Maths skills can help them tackle Maths anxiety and become more confident learners. Kumon’s Maths Programme can help children to overcome Maths anxiety and build up confidence and proficiency in the subject. To find out more about what Kumon has to offer, visit www.kumon.co.za. This article is courtesy of the Kumon North America website** https://www.kumon.com/resources/6-tips-to-help-your-child-tackle-Maths-anxiety/

June 4, 2026

Local Young Innovators to represent South Africa in New York

Two Grade 8 learners from Pretoria are taking the local STEM field by storm. Johan Vorster and Gustav Heesen were the first grade 7 learners to be crowned Overall Winners of the Gauteng North Imbewu Science Fair in 2025, beating older competitors across several grades. Their innovative project is a smartphone-based application that uses AI to mark tests and assignments, relieving the burden on teachers and allowing them more time to focus on teaching. Johan and Gustav designed, tested and tweaked their model independently, ending up with a cost-effective and accessible solution for overworked teachers. Their system is called Advanced Mark-Allocation System (AMAS), and was built using large language models and N8N flow-gramming software to alleviate the test and assignment-marking burden on teachers. Bigger classes mean more tests and assignments for teachers to grade. This AI system is designed to mark tests and provide feedback to learners based off smart phone photos of the learners’ test papers. The software was tested rigorously, and was able to interpret the information on the photograph even when cursive writing was used. It was also able to correctly interpret very untidy and illegible handwriting, as well as writing with a lot of spelling mistakes. The data from the tests were then used to provide feedback to learners and the teacher. AMAS generates personalised feedback to each learner based on their test or assignment information and results. It goes a step further by identifying areas for improvement and suggesting supplementary activities that could help strengthen the learner’s knowledge in that area. It also provides feedback to the teacher based on the class’s performance and overall strengths and weaknesses. After winning the Gauteng North Imbewu Science Fair this year, Gustav and Johan were crowned as second runners-up in the National Imbewu SAYESS (South African Youth Environmental and Science Symposium) competition and were subsequently invited to participate in the Genius Olympiad in Rochester, New York, USA, in June of this year. The boys and their families are, of course, very proud and excited about this fantastic opportunity to represent the future of South African STEM fields abroad. However, the cost of sending the two learners and a chaperone to the USA is significant. As a result, the families have started a crowdfunding campaign to help them cover the costs. They are almost halfway to their goal, with many individuals and companies pitching in to help get Johan and Gustav to New York for the Olympiad. If you would like to contribute, click on this link to their Back-a-buddy campaign. For more information on their application, AMAS, watch this YouTube presentation the boys made to explain their invention. EduHelp and Holistic Awareness wish Gustav and Johan all the best on their travels and the Olympiad, and we cannot wait to see what the future holds for these two bright young South African innovators! Written By Loudine Heunis This article originally appeared in the EduHelp/ Holistic Awareness newsletter. Johan Voster and Gustav Heessen with the presentation of their innovative AI test-marking app. Image supplied by the Heessen family.

June 3, 2026

A Mom’s Look Inside Sugar Bay Holiday Camp With Actor Lunathi Mampofu

When actor & mom Lunathi Mampofu visited Sugar Bay Holiday Camp in Zinkwazi Beach, it was more than a quick stop at a children’s camp. It was a mom getting to see the place her daughter, Skye, had been talking about long after coming home. Like many parents, Lunathi had felt the nerves that come with sending a child away to sleepover camp. It is one thing to know your child is going somewhere fun. It is another thing to let them go without being able to check in every few minutes, fix every small problem, or know exactly what they are doing throughout the day. That is why her visit to Sugar Bay mattered. Skye was already comfortable there. Lunathi got to see her daughter in the camp environment, moving around with confidence, proud to show her cabin, happy around the pool, and clearly at home in a place that had become special to her. For a parent, that says more than any brochure could. Sugar Bay is a children-only sleepover holiday camp on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast, based in Zinkwazi Beach. Children and teens come for school holiday camps filled with activities, beach and pool time, cabin life, evening events, friendships and 24/7 supervision. But what stood out in Lunathi’s visit was not just the activities. It was the feeling that Skye had been given space to grow, while still being cared for. She spoke about the value of independence, and how important it is for children to have experiences outside their everyday home routine. At Sugar Bay, Skye gets to make choices, manage small responsibilities, spend time with other children, and enjoy a holiday that feels like her own. That is something many parents want for their children, even if the first step feels emotional. Lunathi’s visit gave a real look at what that can mean. A child who settles in. A child who feels safe enough to enjoy herself. A child who comes home with stories, confidence and a genuine connection to the people and place. For parents who are still unsure about sleepover camp, her experience is reassuring because it is honest. The nerves are normal. Letting go is not always easy. But seeing your child happy, confident and cared for can change the way you look at camp completely. Sugar Bay has been welcoming children and teens since 2001, with over 100 activities, trained counselors, cabin accommodation and a full camp programme designed for fun, friendship and independence. About Sugar Bay Holiday Camp Sugar Bay is a children-only sleepover holiday camp in Zinkwazi Beach on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. The camp welcomes children and teens aged 7 to 17 during the school holidays, with over 100 activities, 24/7 supervision, trained counselors, beach and pool experiences, cabin accommodation and a full camp programme built around fun, confidence and independence. Explore upcoming Sugar Bay school holiday camp dates:https://www.sugarbay.co.za/2026-school-holiday-camp-dates Learn more about Sugar Bay:https://www.sugarbay.co.za/about-sugar-bay-holiday-camp Find answers to common parent questions:https://www.sugarbay.co.za/parent-faq Book a Sugar Bay holiday camp:https://www.sugarbay.co.za/book-a-holiday Call: 032 485 3778WhatsApp: 082 525 9503

June 1, 2026

Panado® Expands Access with New 5 ml Sachets Available at Everyday Shopping Spots

Panado® knows that when a child develops pain or a fever, timing matters. Relief can’t wait for a planned pharmacy visit or a trip across town. For many families, especially those balancing work, transport and childcare, access is just as important as trust1. That is the thinking behind the launch of the new Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets2 and why they will be available far beyond the pharmacy shelf. Pain and fever are part of childhood, often showing up as a sore throat3a, earache3b, growing pains in young children and tweens4, teething trouble in babies5, bumps, knocks and bruises6, or a fever7 linked to everyday infections like colds, and when they do, parents need solutions that are close at hand. If you live in a busy city, you might pass a forecourt or convenience store on your daily route. In smaller towns or rural areas, the local spaza shop is often the go to for essentials. Parents don’t only shop for healthcare during office hours or planned outings either. They buy what they need on the way home from work, during a quick stop for bread and milk, or from the shop down the road. By making Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets2 available to parents where they live, commute and shop, Panado® is widening access to a medicine parents already know and trust1 so parents can respond sooner, rather than waiting until symptoms worsen or stress builds. Each sachet contains a single 5 ml dose of Panado® Strawberry Syrup2, sealed, hygienic and easy to store. The compact size makes it practical for parents who need something they can carry easily. It also helps reduce waste, as only one dose is opened at a time, with no bulky bottle to manage and no risk of spills. Slip one into a pocket, handbag, nappy bag, backpack or car console and you’re always prepared. The formulation inside each 5 ml sachet remains the same, with unchanged strength, powered by paracetamol – an ingredient backed by more than 150 years of clinical experience8. It’s the same berry nice flavour parents know, is ready to work immediately9 when pain or fever strikes and is suitable for babies and children from three months and older. When needed, the pocket-sized sachet is torn or cut open, the correct dose is measured using a syringe or medicine measure, and any remaining liquid is discarded. To help parents feel confident, dosing is based on a child’s age and weight. Clear guidance is available via the panado.co.za/dosage-calculator online or by scanning the QR code on the pack, reducing guesswork at moments when you want reassurance. The sachets are part of Panado® paediatric range, which includes Panado® Strawberry Syrup2, Panado® Peppermint10, suitable from Day 1 and Panado® Infant Drops11. Panado® Infant Drops were named a Product of the Year 2025 winner in the Child Health category12, based on votes from 2,000 South African consumers in a Kantar survey. Panado® is meeting parents where they already are. At home. On the road. At the local spaza. By expanding distribution of the Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets2 into everyday retail spaces, Panado® gives parents the power to fight their children’s pain and fever confidently. 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 #03.20261000004932. March 2026.

June 1, 2026

June and July Holiday Camps That Give Kids More Than Just a Break

School holidays can be tricky for parents. You want your child to rest, have fun and enjoy their break, but you also want them to do something meaningful with their time. Something away from screens. Something active. Something social. Something that helps them grow. For many parents, the question is not just, “How do I keep my child busy during the holidays?” It is also, “How do I give my child the kind of holiday they will actually remember?” That is where a sleepover holiday camp can be so powerful. A good camp gives children the chance to make new friends, try new activities, spend time outdoors, build independence and come home with stories they cannot wait to share. At Sugar Bay, a kids-only sleepover holiday camp in Zinkwazi Beach on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast, children and teenagers aged 7 to 17 enjoy a safe, supervised, screen-free camp experience filled with adventure, friendship and fun. June and July 2026 Holiday Camps at Sugar Bay This June and July, Sugar Bay is hosting three themed holiday camp weeks for children and teenagers aged 7 to 17: Wicked Week: 28 June to 5 July 2026FIFA Week: 5 to 12 July 2026Come Dine With Me Week: 12 to 19 July 2026 Each camp has its own theme, energy and activities, but every week includes the full Sugar Bay experience: over 100 free-choice activities, 24/7 supervision, trained staff, beach and lagoon adventures, creative sessions, sports, evening entertainment and a safe sleepover camp environment. Parents can view the full June and July 2026 holiday camp lineup at Sugar Bay, including dates, themes, costs and booking details. A School Holiday That Feels Like a Real Adventure June and July may be winter in South Africa, but Sugar Bay is based on the tropical North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, where the weather is much milder than many parts of the country. Campers can still enjoy outdoor activities, beach time, lagoon adventures, creative workshops, sports, themed programmes and evening entertainment. Sugar Bay’s location makes it a year-round camp destination, with plenty for children to do in every season. Why Parents Choose Sugar Bay Sugar Bay is more than a place to keep children busy during the holidays. It is a place where children can build confidence, independence and friendships in a safe, structured environment. Campers choose from over 100 free-choice activities, which means they are not pushed through one fixed programme all day. One child may choose beach games, swimming and surfing. Another may prefer arts and crafts, drama, climbing, skating, sports or creative activities. This freedom of choice helps children discover what they enjoy, try new things at their own pace and experience camp in a way that feels exciting to them. For parents, safety and supervision matter just as much as fun. At Sugar Bay, campers are supervised 24/7 by trained staff, with a dedicated 1:3 staff-to-camper ratio. Parents can read more about safety and supervision at Sugar Bay. Wicked Week: For Creative and Imaginative Campers Sugar Bay’s Wicked-inspired theatre holiday camp runs from 28 June to 5 July 2026. This week is ideal for creative children, musical theatre fans, imaginative thinkers and campers who enjoy stories, costumes, fantasy, art and performance. The benefit of a theatre-inspired camp week is that it gives children a safe space to express themselves. Some campers may step onto a stage for the first time. Others may prefer helping with costumes, props, art, movement or behind-the-scenes creativity. Either way, the theme encourages confidence, teamwork, self-expression and the courage to try something new. Read More: https://www.sugarbay.co.za/post/wicked-inspired-holiday-camp-2026 FIFA Week: For Sporty, Energetic and Team-Spirited Campers Sugar Bay’s football-themed FIFA Week camp runs from 5 to 12 July 2026. With football excitement building in 2026, this camp gives children their own chance to be part of the energy. Campers can enjoy soccer-inspired challenges, friendly competition, cheering, poster making, team spirit activities, themed dining and classic Sugar Bay adventure. It is not only for serious soccer players. Sporty children can get involved on the field, while creative and social campers can take part through cheering, team challenges, cabin spirit and themed activities. The focus is on fun, friendship, confidence, teamwork and adventure. Read More: https://www.sugarbay.co.za/post/fifa-week-camp-july-2026 Come Dine With Me Week: For Social, Creative and Team-Focused Campers Sugar Bay’s Come Dine With Me themed holiday camp runs from 12 to 19 July 2026. This week turns mealtimes into a creative camp-wide challenge. Campers work together on menu ideas, table décor, presentation, entertainment and hosting, while still enjoying the full Sugar Bay sleepover camp experience. The theme encourages communication, cooperation, creativity, confidence and teamwork. It is not only for children who enjoy cooking. Every camper can find a role, whether they enjoy planning, decorating, performing, organising, encouraging others or simply being part of the group. Read More: https://www.sugarbay.co.za/post/come-dine-with-me-camp-july-2026 More Than a Camp Theme The themes make each week exciting, but Sugar Bay is about far more than the theme. For many children, camp is where they make new friends, try something they were nervous to do, spend time away from home, become more independent and enjoy a screen-free holiday filled with real-world connection. Camp gives children the space to grow in ways that feel natural: through play, activity, friendship, choice and shared experiences. Parents often tell us their children come home more confident, more independent and full of stories about the people they met and the things they tried. A Safe, Supervised Sleepover Camp Experience Sending your child away to sleepover camp is a big decision. That is why Sugar Bay places such a strong focus on safety, structure and supervision. Campers are supported throughout their stay by trained staff, clear routines and carefully managed activities. Water activities, excursions, evening programmes and general camp routines are supervised by the Sugar Bay team, giving children room to enjoy independence while parents have peace of mind. You can learn more about Sugar Bay’s safety and supervision on our website. Give Your Child a Holiday They Will Remember Children

May 29, 2026

Trampoline Therapy for Autism: Why Bouncing Builds Balance at Rush

Trampoline therapy for autism is one of the most effective and accessible sensory interventions available to South African families — and at Rush, it happens naturally, joyfully, every single session. For a child on the autism spectrum, the world can feel like a constant stream of overwhelming signals: the glare of mall lighting, the unpredictable sounds of a public playground, the sensory chaos of a busy robot intersection. But inside a Rush trampoline park, something measurably different occurs. The rhythmic, predictable bounce of a trampoline mat is not just fun — for many neurodivergent children, it is a form of neurological liberation. Our latest article explains exactly why, and how to make the most of the April 2026 school holidays for your child’s sensory wellbeing. The Science of the Bounce: Proprioception and Vestibular Regulation Trampolining directly stimulates the two sensory systems that children with autism most commonly struggle to regulate: the proprioceptive system, which maps body position, and the vestibular system, which governs balance — making it one of the most neurologically targeted forms of sensory-friendly indoor play available. To understand why a trampoline works so well, we need to look at the hidden sensesthat underpin daily functioning for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The Proprioceptive System: Your Child’s Internal Map The proprioceptive system relies on receptors in joints and muscles to tell the brain where the body is in space — without the eyes needing to check. For children who feel chronically clumsy, bump into furniture, or struggle with personal space, this system is under-regulated. The deep-pressure impact of landing repeatedly on a trampoline provides intense, grounding proprioceptive feedback. In practical terms: children who enter our parks feeling frazzled and dysregulated frequently leave visibly calmer, because their nervous system has finally received the high-intensity input it was craving. The Vestibular System: Balance, Focus, and Calm Located in the inner ear, the vestibular system controls balance, spatial orientation, and the ability to filter out irrelevant sensory information. The repetitive up-and-down motion of jumping organises these signals in a way few other activities can match. A 2025 study published in the Multidisciplinary Science Journal found that even short-term trampoline interventions significantly reduced anxiety — measured through heart rate variability — and improved motor proficiency in children with ASD. These are the Rush trampoline park benefits that parents at our Claremont location see every week. A Safe Space for Self-Expression and Stimming At Rush, stimming is not just tolerated — it is the default mode of the activity, which is precisely why trampoline parks are one of the most genuinely neurodivergent-friendly activities in South Africa. “Stimming” — self-stimulatory behaviour such as rocking, flapping, or spinning — is a natural and necessary self-regulation strategy for many neurodivergent individuals. In most public environments, these movements attract unwanted attention or correction. On a trampoline, however, repetitive jumping is the activity. There is no masking required. This matters more than it might initially seem. Chronic masking – the suppression of natural autistic behaviours to conform to neurotypical expectations — is associated with significantly elevated rates of anxiety, burnout, and depression. An environment where a child can stim freely, within a safe padded space, is not a luxury. It is a mental health intervention. The physical intensity of jumping also provides “heavy work”input- the kind of full-body exertion that lowers cortisol levels, reduces post-session meltdowns, and – as many parents report — supports better sleep and improved focus once the takkies are back on and it is time for homework or dinner. Social Interaction Without the Social Pressure A visit to Rush trampoline park offers something rare for autistic children: genuine peer connection without the exhausting demands of direct social performance. One of the most overlooked aspects of autism is the sheer cognitive and emotional cost of conventional social interaction. The complex unspoken rules of team sports, the nuance of conversation, the unpredictability of group play — these can be genuinely exhausting for a neurologically different child. Trampoline parks offer a powerful alternative through what developmental psychologists call parallel play. On our wall-to-wall trampolines, children can jump alongsidepeers without any demand for verbal exchange. They share the same space, the same rhythm, and the same physical joy — each within their own defined section of the mat. This builds a genuine sense of belonging and community without the social overwhelm that traditional environments impose. This is what makes Rush the perfect place for trampoline therapy for autism. Over repeated sessions, parallel play often evolves organically into interaction: a shared laugh, a friendly wave, an impromptu synchronised bounce. These micro-connections, built on shared physical experience rather than verbal performance, are developmentally significant and authentic. Sensory-Friendly Session Planning General Timing Guidance For Families: Booking to Visit to Rush To check session times and pricing, visit the Rush holiday pricing and bookings page. Easter and Family Day slots — particularly sensory-friendly sessions — fill well in advance. Frequently Asked Questions About Trampoline Therapy For Autism Is trampoline therapy evidence-based? Yes. Research published in peer-reviewed journals, including a a study by Malque Publishing, has demonstrated measurable reductions in anxiety and improvements in motor proficiency in children with ASD following trampoline-based interventions. While Rush is not a clinical therapy provider, the sensory input provided by trampolining closely mirrors the mechanisms used in occupational therapy settings. What age is trampoline play suitable for children with autism? Rush caters for a wide age range, though suitability depends on the individual child rather than age alone. Toddlers and younger children benefit from smaller jump zones with lower trampoline tension, while older children and teens often respond well to the full park experience. We recommend contacting your nearest Rush park to discuss your child’s specific needs before a first visit. How is Rush different from a regular playground for autistic children? Rush indoor trampoline park offers several structural advantages over conventional playgrounds: Are there any organisations you are involved with? Absolutely. We work closely with Western Cape Autism where we have hosted special play days for kids on the spectrum. Which we will be hosting again this year! See our socials for more information! Our staff is also fully trained to support children with autism, making sure they feel safe, secure, and ready to have a blast at our park. Give Your Child

May 27, 2026

Development Through Play: PlayStation by Rush – Your Top Developmental Hub

Development through play is not a catchphrase – it is the most powerful cognitive and physical tool available to children under eight. At our toddler indoor park, every climbing frame, tunnel, and soft-fall surface has been designed around this single principle. As the June 2026 School Holidays approach, parents across the Southern Suburbs are asking: where can my child actually grow during the break? The answer is in the heart of Kirstenhof — and it starts with movement. The Science of Active Play: How Movement Builds the Brain Active physical play directly stimulates the neural pathways children need for reading, writing, and emotional regulation — making a visit to a quality indoor playpark one of the most developmentally valuable activities of the school holidays. At Playstation, the benefits extend far beyond basic fitness. When children engage in multi-level exploration on our structures, they are simultaneously fine-tuning two critical sensory systems that underpin all future learning: the vestibular and proprioceptive systems. Vestibular System: Balance and Spatial Awareness The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, governs balance and spatial orientation. When children navigate our multi-level climbing structures – shifting weight, changing direction, reading height — they are directly training this system. Research shows that a well-developed vestibular system improves a child’s ability to sit still and focus in a classroom environment, making holiday play a genuine investment in Term 2 readiness. Cross-Lateral Movement: The Reading and Writing Connection Our tunnels and obstacle courses require cross-lateral movement — where a limb crosses the body’s midline. This seemingly simple physical act stimulates communication between the brain’s left and right hemispheres. Neurologically, this is the same cross-hemisphere coordination that underlies reading fluency and handwriting. In short: crawling through a tunnel at our indoor funpark is quietly preparing your child for literacy. Proprioceptive Input: From Climbing Walls to Fine Motor Skills Scaling a climbing wall gives the body constant feedback about its own position and the force required to move. This proprioceptive input — what parents might describe as takkie-to-eye coordination — directly informs the fine motor control needed for holding a pencil, cutting with scissors, or kicking a ball accurately. Every grip on a climbing hold is, in effect, a handwriting lesson. Parent Insight A 2023 position statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics confirmed that unstructured active play is essential for healthy brain development in children under eight — and that the benefits cannot be replicated by screen time or structured academic prep. Social and Emotional Milestones: Building the Bravery Muscle Playstation is where children develop confidence, resilience, and social skills — not through instruction, but through the natural challenges of active, child-led play. There is a specific magic that happens when a child faces a new climbing challenge. It is the moment they decide to try anyway — building what developmental psychologists call self-efficacy, or what we simply call the bravery muscle. Every facilitator is trained to encourage rather than direct, the fear of failure is replaced by the thrill of resilience. Children learn, viscerally, that challenge is survivable — a lesson that transfers directly to the classroom and beyond. The park also functions as a miniature society. In a single afternoon, a child will practise: How to parent Stress free? The Playstation experience is designed to be as restorative for parents as it is energising for children. For South African parents, sourcing quality, stimulating activities during school holidays can feel like full time job. PlayStation by Rush removes that friction entirely. Our Kirstenhof venue features a full-service café with barista-made artisan coffee, freshly prepared light meals, and free Wi-Fi — all with clear sightlines to every play zone. This “park-and-recharge” design means you are not stuck on a hard plastic bench watching the clock. You can catch up on work emails, have a real conversation, or simply sit with a warm cup of coffee while your child builds skills you cannot teach from a worksheet. Parent Tip Aim for the first session of the day during school holidays. Earlier sessions are quieter, giving younger toddlers more room to explore at their own pace — and giving parents the most peaceful café experience of the week. Frequently Asked Questions What is the best clothes to wear to an indoor playpark? Stick to lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking athletic gear. You’ll want clothes that allow for a full range of motion – and don’t forget grip socks. Do parents have to pay? No. Parents enjoy free entry at our park! We only charge for the little ones who are using the equipment, so feel free to come in, relax, and supervise without an extra ticket. Is there high-speed Wi-Fi and a workspace for parents?” Yes! Our café is fully equipped with complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and a dedicated, comfortable seating area designed for those who need to catch up on emails or finish a project. What are Playstations opening hours? Monday- Friday 9:00am – 6:00pm Saturday, Sunday9:00am – 5:00pm Have more questions about development through play? Reach out to us on social media! How Movement Can Help Your Kids The June 2026 school holidays are a genuine opportunity to invest in your child’s development — not just fill time. Whether you are looking for a once-off holiday treat or a weekly ritual that builds long-term skills, our indoor playpark is ready to welcome your family. Let development through play be the best decision you make these holidays. Your child gets confidence, coordination, and pure joy. You get barista coffee and breathing room. Book Now To Secure Your Sessions

May 26, 2026

Where Did All the Good Places Go? A Study of “Third Places”

May drags on. Every parent knows the feeling. Kids are locked in study mode with June exams looming. They spend their afternoons hunched over textbooks instead of running around like they’re supposed to. The weather is turning; the days feel shorter. Everyone is a little grumpy and cooped up. Nobody says it out loud, but the whole house has that end-of-term energy—restless and tired all at once. And the worst part? There is nowhere obvious to go. With the colder, rainy weather keeping everyone away from parks and beaches, the options are slim. In Joburg, Durban, and even Cape Town, “other” places to go are few, far between, and generally expensive. You’ve got the mall. You’ve got restaurants that technically allow children. You’ve got a park if you’re lucky, though it probably doesn’t have much going on. What you don’t have is that one place—the place where you can just pitch up as a family, decompress, and actually enjoy an afternoon without planning it three weeks in advance. That place has a name: The Third Place. And we’ve somehow built entire suburbs without them. The Concept of the Third Place Sociologist Ray Oldenburg named it back in 1989, but the concept is ancient. It’s simple: It’s the corner café, the public square, the library that doesn’t shush you, or the park that actually has soul. Third places are where community happens by accident. You aren’t there for a meeting or to tick off a checklist; you’re just there, and so is everyone else, and somehow that’s enough. Most of the world’s great cities are built around them. Joburg and Cape Town? Not so much. We built the highways first, then the estates, then the shopping centres. The third place was left out of the blueprint entirely, costing us that vital sense of community. What That Actually Costs Us Kids aged 8 to 14 are spending roughly 6 hours a day on their screens. Before we complain about TikTok, we have to realize that’s what happens when there is nowhere else to be. The phone isn’t the sole problem; the absence of alternatives is. May makes it worse because the pressure to be “productive” takes over. Study. Revise. Prepare. Kids who should be outside figuring out the world are instead being asked to sit still and perform. There is no release valve—no place to just be a kid for an hour before dinner. Parents feel it too. You’re managing the studying, the moods, the screen-time negotiations, and the guilt about those negotiations. You could use somewhere to sit with a coffee or a good book that doesn’t require you to be “on” the entire time. That isn’t a luxury; it’s what a functioning neighbourhood should provide. The Urban Gap As our society has urbanised, there has been an intrinsic loss of easy, cost-effective third spaces. In cities like Durban, Cape Town, and Joburg, spaces are becoming increasingly inaccessible. Our cities are no longer walkable, and any sort of activity has be.Up – Your preferred third place Indoor playparks are the perfect third space for you and your child. Our indoor facilities are designed for screen-free fun, featuring a dedicated giant maze, soft play area, multi-court, trampoline zone, and more. It is a “kids’ fun zone” that has it all. Here, children have the space to breathe, run, chat with friends, and let their imaginations run wild. Meanwhile, parents finally have a space where they can grab a coffee, have a snack at our café, or read a book—all with the peace of mind that their young ones are safe and active. Book Now Visit any of our be.UP parks today in Cresta, Gateway, or the Waterfront.

May 25, 2026

Why Emotional Safety in Young Children Is the New Literacy

A child who feels safe learns differently. Before letters, numbers, and formal instruction can truly take root, children need something more fundamental: the emotional security to explore, question, connect and participate with confidence. According to Dibber International Preschools, emotional safety is becoming one of the most important foundations of early childhood development. When children feel seen and heard, they can engage with learning and develop the confidence needed to navigate the world around them. “At Dibber, we believe emotional safety is not separate from learning – it is what makes learning possible,” says Ursula Assis, Country Director of Dibber International Preschools South Africa. “When children feel secure, they are more open to trying, speaking, listening, exploring and growing. That sense of safety shapes not only how they learn, but how they experience themselves in the learning environment.” Dibber notes that literacy in the early years cannot be viewed solely through the traditional lens of reading and writing. It also includes the ability to understand and regulate emotions, and to form healthy connections with others. In this sense, emotional literacy is becoming just as important as academic literacy in laying the foundation for later success. In a preschool environment, emotional safety is often built through small but meaningful daily experiences. A calm response to a child’s distress, routines that create predictability, and spaces where feelings are acknowledged rather than dismissed all help children feel secure. These seemingly ordinary interactions have a profound impact on how children absorb and respond to new information. “When children know they are safe, something shifts,” adds Assis. “They begin to participate more freely. They ask more questions. They recover more easily from frustration. They become more able to focus and more willing to engage. This is why emotional safety deserves to be treated as a core part of early education.” Dibber believes emotional literacy must be nurtured with intention. Children are not born knowing how to name, manage or work through feelings. They learn this through steady guidance. When children are assisted in understanding what they feel, they can communicate their needs, relate to peers, and remain engaged in learning much more easily. This is particularly important because emotional and cognitive development are closely connected. When children experience emotional insecurity or ongoing stress, their ability to focus, remember, and process information can be affected. By contrast, when they begin to understand and express their emotions, they are often better able to manage reactions, resolve conflict and participate meaningfully in group settings. For Dibber, this understanding aligns strongly with the Nordic approach to early childhood education, which places emotional development at the centre of learning rather than treating it as an added extra. Through play, storytelling, shared routines, and guided interaction, children are supported in building self-awareness, empathy, and confidence, as well as in other crucial areas of development. In the South African context, Dibber also sees a natural connection between emotional safety and the philosophy of Ubuntu. Based on the understanding that people grow through connection, care and shared respect, Ubuntu reinforces the idea that children thrive best within environments where belonging is actively nurtured. This strengthens emotional safety not as an individual achievement, but as a shared responsibility between educators, families and communities. At Dibber, this feeling of belonging is intentionally woven through daily learning experiences. Children are encouraged to care for one another, express themselves, work through conflict with support and experience their learning environment as a place where they are valued. Creating emotional safety does not require complicated systems. It begins with consistency, presence and emotionally responsive adults. When educators take time to acknowledge feelings and create space for expression through play and conversation, children begin to trust both the environment and themselves. Over time, this trust becomes the base for deeper learning, stronger relationships and more confident participation. “Emotional well-being is not a soft add-on to education,” says Assis. “It is part of the foundation. When children feel emotionally safe, they are better able to become curious, capable and connected learners. Without that foundation, learning can remain shallow and inconsistent.” Emotional safety is not simply an added advantage in the early years. It is one of the conditions that allows meaningful learning to happen at all.

May 25, 2026

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

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

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

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

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