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Advice from the experts

A beginners guide for optimal nutrition during breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is the most perfectly designed feeding system that only Mother Nature could have devised. It provides everything a new-born or infant needs to thrive up until 6 months old, and remains the main component of a baby’s diet until 12 months old, even after solids are introduced. In fact, breastmilk assists in the digestion of baby’s first solids and makes the transition easier on little tummies. And as babies start exploring their surroundings from around 6 months, when everything goes into their mouths, breastmilk also offers protection against bacteria and viruses, and stimulates their immune systems in ways that formula milk simply cannot. Another function of this perfect system can also not be replicated with formula feeding – the calorie content and composition of breastmilk actually changes during a feed and at other times. At the start of a feed, the milk is more watery to quench the baby’s thirst. Hindmilk, the milk that comes after that, is thicker, more nutritious and has up to three times the fat content. This is why it’s important your baby empties a breast fully before switching to the other breast during a feed so he’s getting all the good stuff. Your breastmilk composition will also change depending on the age of your child, and if your child is ill, when your breastmilk will contain more antibodies. It really is magical stuff! The World Health Organisation recommends that children are exclusively breastfed until 6 months old, but that breastfeeding should continue, where possible, until 2 years old and even beyond. Toddlers benefit from the same immune system enhancement and protection from illnesses such as pneumonia, diarrhoea, colds, ear infections, allergies and other nasties as newborns do, and they continue to benefit from the protein, calcium, fat, vitamin A, and other nutrients in breast milk. The long-term benefits of breastfeeding are equally as compelling, with research showing that, as adults, babies who were breastfed have lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and are less likely to develop type 2 Diabetes or to be obese or overweight. While the benefits to their baby will be a mother’s top priority, breastfeeding mothers also receive health-protecting benefits. Apart from the pure bliss, stress relief and bonding breastfeeding creates, mothers who have breastfed see reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, and this risk reduction is cumulative – meaning the longer you breastfeed the more your risk profile reduces. YOUR DIET DURING BREASTFEEDING Many new mothers worry that they are not getting enough nutrients to sustain breastfeeding over the long term, or that their milk may be lacking in nutrients, but the truth is that, for the majority of new mothers, the most important factor in milk production is the act of breastfeeding itself – the more you feed, the more milk you produce. And no matter what you eat, for the first 6 months your milk will contain almost all the nutrients your baby needs, except for Vitamin D (or Vitamin Free). Consider women living in 3rd world countries where their staple diet is maize or sorghum: in spite of the mothers lacking important nutrients themselves, their babies can be sustained through breastfeeding. Of course, the breastmilk produced by an undernourished mother may not be optimal but it is sufficient for the baby’s survival. Pregnancy, birth and the first few years of your child’s life are mentally, emotionally and physically exhausting. Your overall health and your nutrient intake postpartum can have a big impact on your ability to get through it all in less of a sleep-deprived and foggy haze, as well as on the quality of your milk. During pregnancy, from around week 12 when the placenta is fully formed and begins transporting blood, oxygen and nutrients, the unborn child receives all its nutrients from the mother’s blood. If you are not getting an adequate intake of important nutrients, your body will divert these from your own stores to ensure your baby is getting what it needs for development. According to the results of a National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, vitamin and mineral deficiency in pregnant women is common, specifically Magnesium, Iron, Vits D and E, and to a lesser degree Vits A, B, C, Calcium, Folate and Zinc. It is important to top-up your own levels of these and other nutrients to ensure you stay in top form during pregnancy and postpartum. Nutrients needed to keep mother and baby in peak health while breastfeeding are split into two groups – Group 1 are the nutrients that need to be present in Mom’s blood in sufficient quantities so they can be secreted into breastmilk, and Group 2 are nutrients that will be secreted into milk regardless of how much or little the mother is taking in. Although Group 2 nutrients are not necessarily needed in a mother’s blood, it’s still a good idea to make sure you are getting enough of them to stay as healthy as possible during this time. Some common food sources of Group 1 nutrients: Vitamin A: sweet potatoes, carrots, dark leafy greens, organ meats, eggs Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): fish, pork, seeds, nuts, beans Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): cheese, almonds, nuts, red meat, oily fish, eggs Vitamin B6: chickpeas, nuts, fish, poultry, potatoes, bananas, dried fruit Vitamin B12: shellfish, liver, yogurt, oily fish, nutritional yeast, eggs, crab, shrimp Vitamin D: cod liver oil, oily fish, some mushrooms, fortified foods Choline: eggs, beef liver, chicken liver, fish, peanuts Iodine: dried seaweed, cod, milk, iodized salt Selenium: Brazil nuts, seafood, turkey, whole wheat, seeds Some common food sources for Group 2 nutrients: Calcium: milk, yogurt, cheese, leafy greens, legumes Zinc: oysters, red meat, poultry, beans, nuts, dairy Folate: beans, lentils, leafy greens, asparagus, avocados Iron: red meat, pork, poultry, seafood, beans, green vegetables, dried fruit Copper: shellfish, whole grains, nuts, beans, organ meats, potatoes You will almost certainly need to up your calorie intake while breastfeeding – by between 300 and 500 calories depending on your weight and activity levels – to cope with the physical demands of

September 29, 2020

Help your family navigate uncertainty

It has been said that we need to learn to become like a river which quite happily meanders through and over obstacles despite it never knowing what it may encounter on its way to the ocean. A river flows powerfully at times, more gently at others ‘knowing’ that its journey is rooted in uncertainty and that adjustments need to be made along the way, if it is to reach its destination. Cindy Glass, Owner and Co-Founder of Step Up Education Centres explains that our human lives are similar in that we walk an ever-changing path, often not knowing what challenges and joys await us in the next hour, day, week, month or year! “The difference between a flowing river and how many of us navigate this journey, is that we most often find ourselves stressed and anxious in moments of uncertainty and difficulty.” She adds that the coronavirus is a great example of an obstacle that is fraught with uncertainty and challenge and many of us find it incredibly difficult to navigate the new normal that have become our lives. The good news, according to Cindy, is that there are ways in which you and your family can face the uncertainties of Coronavirus and keep ‘flowing’ in the direction you wish to go. She offers 5 ways to combat uncertainties and restore your flow: 1. Be gentle with yourself and others: Teach by example, that it is during uncertain times that it becomes extra-important to support one another. Kindness and respect for self and others does not cost a cent and it yields incredibly positive results. Use ‘Please’, ‘Thank-you’ and ‘How can I help?” in your daily interactions with others, these minor changes can make a major difference! 2. Eliminate the guilt: Don’t focus on the ‘should be’, ‘could be’, ‘what if’ pressures that we often place on ourselves and others. Know that you are doing the very best that you can with the knowledge and opportunities that you have in this moment. 3. You can only control that which is in your control: You have no control over the virus or the behavioural choices of others. Teach your family that they do have control over washing their hands, wearing a mask in public and being patient and respectful when out and about. Focus on the things that are in your control! 4. Slow down: Know that uncertainties do not last forever. The challenges and obstacles that you face at present will pass! Stay focused on making positive choices for yourself and your family as you ‘flow’ more gently through and around the uncertainties. This is not the time to pile on the pressure! Slow down, breathe and just be! 5. Support your community: Find ways that you can be involved with your community. Giving of your time, skills and love to others in need, this will lift your spirits and it will give you a wonderful sense of fulfilment! “Happiness is not a quest – it is a choice. Don’t allow uncertainties and challenges to determine your joy! Focus on having an attitude of gratitude every day. When you recognise and acknowledge the good things in your life, challenges are more manageable!” concludes Cindy.

September 29, 2020

Childhood Cancer impacting South African families

Nothing can fully prepare you for the horrific news that your child has been diagnosed with cancer – a sad reality for many South African parents. Statistics show that there are currently 1000 children under the age of 15 diagnosed with cancer each year. According to Laurence Hillman, CEO at 1Life: “What’s also horrifying is that half of the children who contract cancer in South Africa, are never diagnosed.” The international Agency for research on cancer (IARC), reported that the worldwide incidence of childhood cancer is increasing, from the 165 000 cases reported annually to 215 000 cases for children who are 14 years and younger and 85 000 cases reported for 15 – 19 year olds. Globally, childhood and adolescent cancer is threatening to overtake infectious diseases, as one of the highest causes of disease-related mortality in children. While survival rates in high-income countries reach an average of 84% and are steadily improving even in less-resourced areas of the world, South Africa is still well below the rate of developed countries as well as below the World Health Organisation’s survival goal of at least 60%. South Africa’s survival rate has improved over the last 5 years and is around 55%. This is concerning and points out a dire need for parents to not only look out for early warning signs of possible cancers, to improve survival rates, but also to consider what would happen if their child were diagnosed with a childhood cancer. Early identification can save lives According to CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa parents should use the Siluan early warning signs of childhood cancer and keep an eye out for the following, which could be early warning signs that need to be checked out by a professional. Keep in mind that even if your child is experiencing some of these symptoms, it doesn’t automatically mean they have cancer, which is why a doctor’s opinion is vital in diagnosis. Siluan Early Warning Sign of Childhood Cancer: S – Seek medical help early for persistent symptoms I – Eye: A white spot in the eye, a new squint, new blindness, or a bulging eyeball L- Lump: Any lumps should be investigated. Lumps in the abdomen and pelvis, head and neck, limbs, testes, and glands U- Unexplained: Prolonged fever over two weeks, loss of weight, pallor, fatigue, easy bruising, or bleeding A – Aching: Bones, joints, back and easy fractures N- Neurological signs: Change or deterioration in walk, balance or speech, regression of milestones, headaches for more than a week with or without vomiting, enlarging head. “Many people don’t know that children can get cancer. It is a topic most people avoid and feel uncomfortable talking about but it is an important one and the sooner we speak up and create stronger awareness, the more children can be saved” says, Adri Ludick, CHOC Interim National Team Leader and Programme Development Manager. The financial implications of childhood cancers “Just like cancer, prevention is better than cure, and as such, it is important that you consider ways in which to not only identify how to protect your child’s wellbeing by early detection and treatment but that you too consider your finances and the impact of potential healthcare costs should they contract the disease,” says Hillman. If your child has been diagnosed with cancer, your priority will always be to get them the best treatment possible. However, have you considered how you will pay for this treatment as well as the extra expenses that come with the illness such as transportation, specialist consultations, treatments that aren’t covered by medical aid and child are for other children in your family while you care for your ill child? Or what if you had to take unpaid time off work or quit your job because of treatment schedules – which can leave a serious dent in your family’s financial stability and can have long term impacts on the entire family. “Parents can ensure they have the right financial management tools in place that ensure the provision of adequate financial resources to support them through this very difficult time – things such as a good medical aid, a financial plan and long term insurance covers like a dread disease policy specifically for children, are crucial in this financial mix, should the worst happen,” continues Hillman. For example, there are policies on the market that cover more than one child on one policy, for majority of childhood cancers and offer additional value adds to make the family more comfortable during this time – benefits such as cancer coaching consultations to aid cancer remission, 24-hour advice line on a legal matters, and counselling benefits for example. “During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, we need to take action and ensure we are protecting our family’s health and finances. I encourage all South Africans to take the time to ensure that that they put the above provisions in place to protect their children as well as that you take the time to join the movement towards stronger awareness when it comes to childhood cancers,” says Hillman. “We need to stand up and be bold, we need to have conversations about childhood cancer, and we need to empower people with knowledge, so that no child will be left behind. During the month of September, we ask people to wear a golden ribbon and in doing so raise awareness about childhood cancer,” Concludes Ludick.

September 28, 2020

What is the Future of Work going to be for your kids?

Work as we know it is changing. Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT) automation, and robotics will overhaul work at the same level as mechanisation did in prior generations of agriculture and manufacturing. With this change, some jobs will be lost, many others created, but almost all will change. What does this mean for your kids? We are living in a technology driven world. Things we thought were exciting elements of Sci-Fi movies a decade ago are being incorporated into our daily lives today. Artificial Intelligence as a service (for example, customer enquiries handled by an algorithm), cars that drive themselves (Tesla’s complete autonomous car is to be released this year and Google’s sister company Waymo has just completed a trial of autonomous taxis in California transporting over 6200 people) and machines that read X-Rays are just the tip of the iceberg. Even though most of us can’t wait for the day that all taxis in SA are driven by safety aware machines, the impact is still profound – what about all those jobs? Never before in history, has the choice of your child’s education been more important. McKinsey and Company estimates that over 50 million new technology jobs, 130 million new health care jobs and 20 million new jobs from energy investment will be created by 2030. Startlingly, between 400 and 800 million individuals could be displaced by automation and need to find a new job by 2030 globally. Will there be enough work in the future? History would suggest that we need not fear, 8 – 9% of 2030 labour demand will be in new types of employment. There are a few key examples from history which we can rely on to give us some key insight into labour demand of the future. After ATMs were introduced in the USA, the number of bank tellers actually rose as banks started competing on service rather than manual cash dispensing. Even though the number of teller per branch decreased, banks could now afford to open more branches to the convenience of customers, leading to a greater overall demand of bank tellers. The personal computer market destroyed 3.5 million jobs, but also created over 15.8 million new jobs since 1850 (now more than 10% of all jobs). Beyond this, the world is seeing growth in the labour market for numerous reasons, but mostly for the growing middle class globally (particularly in Africa and other emerging economies) due to increases in spending on consumer goods, health care and education. Most of the workplace transitions will require adopting new ways in which you conduct your work (think of how the COVID pandemic saw your work life transform), and there are numerous sectors that will see great growth in the labour market. About 50% of activities in all jobs today can be fully automated by existing technology and by 2030, 15 – 30% will be automated. Occupations that need less than high school (eg. logging equipment operators, taxi drivers) and the jobs that need a high school qualification (ex. stock clerks, travel agents, firefighters and industrial work) and jobs that require some post school training (such as nursing assistants, web developers, electricians and legal secretaries for example) show the greatest potential of being automatable with more than 50% of the work activities to be displaced by 2030. Occupations that are typical of Bachelors and graduate degrees (such as lawyers, doctors, teachers, statisticians, chief executives) have about 22% automatable tasks. The real question is, are your kids getting prepared for this rapid change? It is important to pay attention to the following changes, since these will be central to the evolution from today’s world of work into the Future of Work. Activities such as predictable physical work, data collection and data processing will see the big losses in demand. Machines do these type of things better than us. Applying expertise, interacting with stakeholders, managing and developing people will see great demand increases. Machines can’t do this. A distinct shift in capabilities and skills will be needed. Social and emotional skills are the future key metrics in the workplace. Advanced cognitive abilities such as logical reasoning and creativity will be a requirement for almost every job. Key competence in technology is a no brainer. There will be very few places in the world that will see jobs created for workers that are not equipped with advanced technology skills. Many have expressed concern that in today’s world a degree is not enough. However, trends in advanced economies suggest that there will be a drop in jobs available to those without tertiary level qualifications. Advanced degrees (Masters and Doctorates) will become increasingly important, not for the niche fields in which they place the graduates, but for the key skills development in critical thinking, problem solving and creativity. These degrees will equip students with the necessary cognitive skills to outperform machines, but the gap between what degrees teach and what the job market needs has never before been any larger than it is today. There exists a disconnect between what education providers believe they are delivering (over 72% believe new graduates are ready for work) whereas 39% of employers say that a skills shortage is the cause for entry-level vacancies not being filled. So, what is the answer? Let children be children, but at the same time expose them to the wonderful changes that are occurring in our world. On an individual level, learners and students must be prepared for lifelong learning. Students must be prepared for a rapidly evolving future of work, and acquiring skills that are in demand and re-examining the notions of traditional careers (where and how they work, and what talents and capabilities they bring to the table) is key. The key attributes of a successful future worker include: Key skills in digital technology. Every job that exists today will transform into an occupation that needs digital skills. Knowledge of programming and other key digital technology skills will not be reserved

September 28, 2020

Intense allergy season predicted amid raging COVID-19 pandemic

The latter part of August typically signals the arrival of the pollen season, which this year, could prove more troublesome during the pandemic as tree pollen counts start to surge throughout most of the country. The highest counts to date have been seen in Johannesburg, Pretoria and Cape Town from cypress, casuarina, poplar, rhus, oak and olive trees. Plane trees, which are prolific in all cities, as well as buddleja, which tends to reach high numbers in Bloemfontein, are now also entering their flowering season, therefore it’s only a matter of time before symptoms are triggered in those regions. Prof Jonny Peter, who heads up the UCT Lung Institute’s Allergy and Immunology Unit says the Coronavirus could make allergy sufferers hyperaware of every sneeze and sniffle as some symptoms overlap. “Hay fever is activated by airborne allergens, such as pollen, which leads to a runny and itchy nose, scratchy throat, as well as allergic conjunctivitis in the eyes. While COVID-19 and hay fever share certain symptoms, there are some key differences. In COVID-19, fevers, body aches and headache are common, but these are rarely associated with seasonal allergies. In contrast, an itchy nose or eyes and sneezing signal allergy symptoms and are not common in Coronavirus infections. “Shared symptoms may include a runny nose or nasal congestion, an intermittent cough, sore throat and fatigue. In asthmatics, very high pollen counts may trigger exacerbations with shortness of breath or difficulty breathing in some individuals. Fortunately, Coronavirus does not commonly trigger worsening asthma. If your symptoms do worsen, it’s advisable to consult your doctor especially if you have a known sensitivity to pollen. “It’s also likely to have symptoms of both COVID-19 and seasonal allergies at the same time, which will affect each person differently. Some may experience mild symptoms, while others could have more severe symptoms.” SA’s pollen seasons vary across the country’s biomes, which is why the UCT Lung Institute is trying to establish pollen monitoring stations in all the provinces. Pollen allergy sufferers who are allergic to both trees and grasses usually have the toughest time in September and October as it’s the time of year when grass and tree pollen overlaps. That means a double dose of misery for people who are allergic to both. The grass pollen season can last for up to nine months of the year in certain parts of the country like the highveld, which only comes to an end in May. Prof Peter says as pollen levels rise it’s important to continue managing allergies during the pandemic with antihistamines, corticosteroid nasal sprays and inhalers. Here he answers some of the burning questions allergy sufferers have that will help them to manage their condition better during the pandemic: Q: Does having hay fever/allergic rhinitis pose an increased risk of severe COVID-19 complications? A: No. Current research does not indicate that allergic rhinitis or even well-controlled asthma increases either the risk of being infected with Coronavirus or the chance of developing severe disease. In fact, there have been reports that allergic rhinitis and some treatments used for allergic diseases may be protective, although the data is still emerging. Q: Will wearing a mask reduce hay fever symptoms? A: Perhaps. I think it is going to be an interesting aspect of the current pandemic and maybe a silver-lining. Masks may offer some protection against seasonal allergies since they can prevent larger particles from being inhaled. However, smaller pollen particles are still likely to get through the covering, therefore masks should not be your only form of protection. Keep in mind that pollen is a fine powder, microscopic in size and can travel deep into the nose and lungs. The higher the concentration of pollen in the air, the greater the chance of an allergic reaction. It’s also important to wash your mask after each use, because it could be carrying pollen. Q: Does COVID-19 exacerbate asthma symptoms? A: Emerging data suggests that this is unlikely. There are several viral infections that are a common cause for asthma exacerbations, including the common cold rhinoviruses and the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Interestingly, the SARsCoV2 or COVID-19 virus does not seem to be a major driver of asthma exacerbations. However, always remember to wear a mask in public to prevent the transmission of the Coronavirus. Q: Is there a way to reduce hay fever symptoms during the pandemic? A: It is impossible to completely avoid exposure to pollen. However, the second best option is to regularly check the pollen counts for your area on www.pollencount.co.za and to limit time outdoors when counts are high. Using a portable air filter in one or more rooms in your home will also help to filter pollen and dust. Use a high efficiency particulate filter (HEPA) for best results. Keeping windows and doors closed in the morning to midday when pollen counts rise will also help. The lowest pollen counts are usually in the late afternoon to early evening. When outdoors, avoid activities such as moving the lawn or raking leaves that will stir up pollen. Equally important is to remove clothes you’ve worn outside and to wash your skin and hair to remove pollen. Rather use a tumble dryer to dry clothes and bedding as pollen can stick to sheets and towels when hung outside. One of the main reasons to monitor pollen levels in SA is international data that suggests pollen seasons are becoming longer and more intense due to climate change (warmer temperatures cause plants to begin producing and releasing pollen earlier, making hay fever seasons longer). Air pollution is also increasing, which further aggravates allergy symptoms from pollen and fungal spores. “As COVID-19 is likely to be with us for a long time, it’s important to learn about the risks and how to keep allergies under control to prevent asthma episodes. There has never been a more important time to know what is in the air we are breathing.” If you are among the 17.5 million South Africans that suffer from

September 25, 2020

Life after matric – guiding your child during this next chapter

At this point in their education, your child’s mind is most likely preoccupied with passing their final school year – the final and arguably most daunting year of their school careers. That said, matric learners do need to start considering what they plan to do after they finish school and, more often than not, they need guidance in this endeavour. From the time children are first able to speak, they are consistently asked: “What do you want to be when you grow up?”. As is only natural, the answer (or answers) to this question will change throughout a child’s life as they develop new interests, find their strengths and skills they are particularly good at, and – as they hit their mid-teens – choose their school subjects. How learners should decide on their career path Identify your child’s interests, skills and strengths: these are the factors that will arguably be most helpful in identifying potential career paths. A child who is particularly good at physical sciences, for example, will excel in a STEM career like engineering but might fail miserably in a career like journalism. Read more: All children are smart. Which type of smart is your child? Find a mentor: if your child appears particularly interested in a specific field, it might be worthwhile finding a mentor for them who works in this field. In this way, your child can get first-hand experience of that career, and this can help them decide whether it is actually right for them. Think of this as a type of ‘job shadowing’. Additionally, encourage your child to do holiday work or internships – if they have the time – to help them explore their options. Consider all fields: many parents tend to think of only careers like medicine, law and accountancy to be worthwhile or feasible – this is most certainly not the case. Encourage your child to research all sorts of careers across multiple industries, from marketing to plumbing, from teaching to carpentry. It is important to remember that not all children are cut out for university careers, and even if they excel academically, their interests may not lie in pursuing careers that require years of academic study. Push passion, not prestige. Most importantly, do not force your child into a career you have, or would have liked to have – treating your child as an extension of yourself is a sure-fire way of setting them up for failure. Read more: Encouraging your child to succeed – The do’s and don’ts Why it’s helpful to do a career test In addition to the above, it is often useful for learners to do a career test. Career tests are designed to understand how a person’s skills, preferences, and aptitude will influence their chances of succeeding and finding satisfaction in any given field or industry. Even if your child is very aware of their own interests and capabilities, career tests are a helpful way of seeing which careers align with them. Conversely, career tests can also help learners discover whether they are actually suited to careers in which they are interested. One such test is Career Compass. It is an online questionnaire that takes about 40 minutes to complete. The questionnaire is based on Dr John L. Holland’s scientifically proven personality theory and is designed to help learners identify careers which are suitable to their abilities and interests. Career Compass gives learners: Career options suited to their personality Personalised and instant results Career insights To take the test, register online. The future workplace Another factor to take into consideration when helping your child decide what they want to do after completing school is that the workplace is constantly changing. It no longer resembles, even remotely, the workplace you grew up with and entered at your children’s age. Read more: Impaq helps learners prepare for the real world The workplace is continually changing at a rate most of us can’t even imagine. In fact, it’s estimated that 85% of jobs that will exist in 2030 (in only ten years’ time) don’t even exist yet, according to a report from The Institute for the Future (IFTF) in partnership with Dell Technologies. Further, it’s estimated that today’s employees will change careers between five and seven times during their lives, and it’s thought that 30% of the workforce (almost one third!) will now change careers or jobs every 12 months. Consequently, parents must bear in mind that whatever their child decides to do upon finishing school might not be what they end up doing in 5, 10, or 20 years’ time. Parents must be ready to accommodate this during their child’s post-school pursuits, whether that be studying a degree at a university, learning a trade at a technikon, or anything else! by Jacqui Smit

September 25, 2020

Bonitas takes the edge off contribution increases

Financially solid, younger new members, two new plans, virtual healthcare and a renewed focus on Managed Care for chronic diseases are just a few of the insights from the Bonitas 2021 product launch. But it is the annual contribution increases which are highly anticipated and the moment of truth for all medical schemes. Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund announced an unprecedented 0% increase on its BonFit Select plan and a weighted increase of 4.6% across all plans. The highest increase is 7.1%. ‘Members on our growth options, which contribute to 91% of business, will only experience an increase on 3.9%. I think, looking at the pricing and the benefit richness we offer in comparison to the market, the changes for 2021 will be well received.’ He says, ‘The guidelines received from the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), clearly highlighted that medical schemes should limit contribution increases as far as possible. We crunched numbers and worked tirelessly to find the sweet-spot between sustainability and ensuring affordability. Not an easy task, especially in a weakened economy. We took a responsible stance, with a long-term view, to ensure that our members wouldn’t have to pay the price of a low increase for 2021 in the coming years. One of our core considerations was finding ways to ensure members could get access to full healthcare cover and avoid out-of-pocket expenses and co-payments.’ Pricing and technology Seven of our current options are priced between R1 500 and R3 000 which is where the medical scheme market is experiencing growth currently. Member behaviour has changed significantly and demand is for innovation, accessibility and technology. This has the benefit of attracting, a younger, target audience and driving sustainability. We can’t talk about 2020 without mentioning Covid-19. Key trends that emerged from a medical schemes perspective were: Changes to benefit structures and PMBs Lower than anticipated investment income as markets slumped Changes in claiming patterns in terms of seasonality and volume, due to the lockdown measures that came into effect And a Consumer Price Index that was lower than previous years which is expected to be at around 3.9% in 2021 In an industry like ours, it’s challenging to be different – to innovate, disrupt…to be better. But not impossible. The Fund needed to make short-term decisions with the long-term view and sustainability in mind. One of the highlights over the past few years, has been the introduction of four Efficiency Discounted Options (EDOs). Plans whereby members use network healthcare providers and pay around 15% less for the same benefits. The EDOs cover over 74 000 lives and the principal members who join are around 10 years younger than the average Bonitas member. 2021 – changes, contribution increases and enhancements Over the past five years, we have proactively driven innovative product design, actuarial modelling and constant engagement with various stakeholders. We believe we offer the ultimate split risk solution, with a comprehensive product range and diversified membership base. To stay at the forefront of innovation we have introduced: Edge – a new category driven by technology, intelligence and innovation, with two plans called BonStart and BonStart Plus. These are designed for economically active singles or couples, living in the larger metros. The plans include access to: A private hospital network and full cover for emergencies; PMB chronic medicine; excellent day-to-day benefits including unlimited GP consultations; layers of virtual care, dental and optical benefits; preventative care; wellness screenings; contraceptives and more. The cost: R1 452 and R1 731 respectively for the principal member. Managed Care One of the leading trends worldwide is the rise in non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and oncology. In fact, during this global pandemic, the impact lifestyle diseases and comorbidities had on Covid-19 patients was put in the spotlight. 20% of our members have multiple comorbidities which means, even without the pandemic, we need a stronger focus on preventing and managing lifestyle behaviours. Poor diet, smoking and lack of exercise are the three lifestyle factors that contribute to over 80% of chronic conditions. Managed Care continues to be a focus to empower members to take charge of their health and support them along the way. Home-based care During Covid-19, home-based care received renewed interest and focus. This dovetails with our strategy to move more care to the home and out of hospital. As an example, post-surgery or mild pneumonia, treatment can be effectively provided at home through the assistance of nurses. Not only is home-based care a cost effective delivery of care but it also promotes healing. Studies show that patients recover faster in their comfort of their own home. Day hospitals We believe the use of day hospitals and clinics should be encouraged, where possible. Some procedures such as cataract surgery, circumcisions and scopes are better suited to be performed in day hospitals or clinics versus larger hospitals. There is minimum disruption to members, speedier recovery times, less risk of infection and day hospital are also a more cost effective alternative. Technology One of the key learnings has been adapting to a new way of working – with virtual technology at the forefront. The WhatsApp channel we introduced has the most room for potential. This platform is convenient for members and allows them to manage their medical aid through live chats. Virtual Care There was a positive response to the launch of the new Bonitas Member Mobile App and free virtual care for all South Africans. This provided access to GP consultations for a range of conditions, including Covid-19, as well as free delivery for chronic medicine. At the heart of the model is the GP. This aligns to our care coordination initiatives, ensuring members receive the right level of care and support in managing their conditions. It allows access to a virtual nurse, advice in an emergency, auxiliary and home- based care, ensuring members have comprehensive support for any condition, in any circumstance, through our virtual based model. We’re pleased to announce that this model is unique and

September 23, 2020

PARENTS GUIDE TO MATRIC SUPPORT IN 2020

At the best of times matric exams throw the entire household into chaos. As the parent of a 2020 matric student, you’d be forgiven for asking: Why me? Why this year?! Matric is such an important rite of passage for both teens and their parents, and the global pandemic has played havoc with this special year in your child’s life. It can be incredibly hard to hold the space for your matric’s anxieties, disappointments and stresses, while dealing with your own fears, expectations and emotions about this tumultuous time. The good news is that parents are actually far from helpless bystanders, and research shows that there is a lot that parents can do to provide much-needed support that will help your teen manage the stresses of writing matric in 2020. “Helping your child be emotionally, physically and mentally prepared is the greatest thing that you can do in this exceptional year,” says Counselling Psychologist, Lauren Martin who is on the panel at an upcoming SACAP (the South African College of Applied Psychology) webinar, Parents’ Guide to Matric Support. “Understanding the impact of emotional well-being on their performance and coming up with practical ways to guide them through their studies and exam time will help you, your matric student, and the whole family navigate the experience with far less stress and chaos, and with better outcomes.” Joining Lauren Martin on the webinar panel is Esmarie Cilliers, a registered Counsellor in private practice with a special interest in Developmental Psychology and Personal Growth. She says, “Studying for success is not a question of luck or talent alone. Researchers agree that students who have a strategy or a plan for how they are going to study, achieve the best outcomes. Students who follow a plan and scientific methods learn more easily, retain information for longer periods of time, and save themselves hours of study time which enables them to have more balance in their lives.” One of the key aspects of how matrics and their parents approach the matric exams rests in their attitudes and perspectives on the challenges, which have been amplified by all the disruptions of the pandemic. On the one hand, it has served up anxieties and disappointments, and on the other it has provided an extraordinary life experience where the matric student can embrace their growing independence and tap into their inner characteristics such as resilience and courage. There is the choice to view this incredibly challenging time as an opportunity to improve self-discipline, time management and study skills. Drawing on our own inner attributes can help us to harness the motivation, will power, creativity and coping skills that will unlock the 2020 matric cohorts’ potential and empower them to succeed. Martin adds, “I would encourage every matric student and their parents to practice flexibility in planning and thinking about the future – especially this year, with all the additional stressors and challenges matric students have encountered. Every matric student is wondering about the next steps for them, whether that’s finding work, studying further or volunteering to gain experience. Rigid thinking around believing there is only one set way to achieve your goals exacerbates anxiety and pressure and often leaves students depressed and demobilized when they aren’t able to follow this specific, rigid plan. Rather, mapping out various pathways to your goal leaves students with options and possibilities, regardless of matric examination results. Other options come in to perspective such as, upgrading matric results; attaining a higher certificate prior to a degree programme; volunteering prior to work applications; considering trade qualifications or entrepreneurship opportunities. The mapping of possible routes to a fulfilling future is really endless, and matrics, and their parents, need to be reminded of the many possibilities they have.” With a broader perspective, parents can also help in promoting and supporting practical, daily ways of taking physical, mental and emotional care of oneself. Sufficient sleep, supportive nutrition and being physically active every day too often fall by the wayside when study pressures mount. Yet, these are the very activities that support emotional well-being and optimal intellectual performance. To find out more about how easy it can be for your child to get physically, mentally and emotionally in shape for the exams, parents can tune into SACAP’s free webinar Parents’ Guide to Matric Support on Saturday, 26 September at 10:00 am. There will be two presentations by the experts focused on the importance of emotional well-being and planning for matric. There will also be a Q&A session so that you can address any personal challenges in a supportive and caring environment. Join SACAP’s Parents’ Guide to Matric Support session on how to help your matric take control of exams with less stress. Join the Zoom webinar on Saturday, 26 September at 10:00 – 11:00. Visit https://www.sacap.edu.za/events/parents-guide-to-matric-support-26-september-2020/ to RSVP and save your seat for the Parents’ Guide to Matric Support webinar. For any matriculant who is interested in the field of psychology, counselling, Human Resource Management or Business Management, SACAP offers a wide range of qualifications, including Higher Certificate, Advances Certificate, BAppSocSci (Majoring in Psychology and Counselling), BAppSocSci (Majoring in Psychology and Human Resource Management), BappSocSci (Majoring in Psychology and Business Managemet), BPsych, and a one-of-a-kind approach to learning: academic rigour and applied skills. Graduating confident skilled practitioners is key, which is why SACAP combines an academically rigorous curriculum with a strong emphasis on the ability to apply knowledge through the training of relevant skills. Registration for 2021 Term One, is now open and class space is limited. For further information, visit: www.sacap.edu.za

September 22, 2020

Why friendship is important to children

Have your children been feeling lonely missing their friends during the lockdown? We can all agree this year has been a hard and strange one. It has also been a stressful time for our children – not knowing when they will be going back to school and having to keep a safe distance from grandparents and their best friends. At Sugar Bay, we understand the value of great friendships in a child’s life and the tremendous impact it can have on their well-being. When kids miss their friends, that loneliness might express itself as anger, anxiety and sleep problems. Most children will be pleased to get back into their familiar routine and might even want to spend more time with friends when this time of isolation finally comes to an end. As parents, we don’t like to see our children stressed and unhappy, we don’t want our children to be worried about global events because they are just kids. Our friends remain a hugely important part of our lives, from sharing problems, asking for advice, uncontrollable laughter and good times, sharing our life events and proudest moments, our friends help each of us define who we are. For children, making friends is a vital part of growing up and an essential part of their social and emotional development. Many camp programs specifically focus on fostering those friendships, along with teaching, modelling, and practising social skills. The primary role of camp counselors is facilitating friendships and positive experiences. They are also trained to help campers build social skills. At most camp programs, counselors participate in training a week or two before a camp. Sessions include exercises in communication, leadership, and team building, during which counselors are trained to lead “ice-breakers” that help campers get to know one another and connect. Making friends is an important part of a camp experience, and with the help of their counselors, children learn and practice their friend-making skills. Bullying is something many children have to deal with at school. The effects of bullying on a child are devastating and can lead to labeling and being stuck with a particular perception. A child may become known as a nerd and quiet amongst their peers when they can be boisterous in another setting. We encourage parents to send their child without a friend to camp. Being alone in an unfamiliar place can be daunting, but with the help of an excellent counselor, children quickly adapt and make new friends rather than sticking with their best friend throughout the camp. Often, a child will break out of their supposed categorization if given the chance. And in the process life-long friendships are made. If there is one thing that the lockdown period has reminded us of is the importance of family and friends. Should your child want to escape the indoors in search of adventure, Sugar Bay is always here for you. Visit www.sugarbay.co.za for more information.

September 21, 2020

Tips to express more breast milk

There are so many reasons why moms may choose to express. For some, it is a way to include dad and other family members in the feeding routine. For others it ensures baby receives the goodness that breast milk has to offer while being away from their baby, like when they have to return to work. And for other moms, baby might not latch on to the breast, and by expressing, they can ensure baby receives the goodness of breast milk, even if they are not able to breastfeed. Whatever your reason, expressing should be a comfortable and rewarding experience. Here are a couple of tips to maximise your milk flow when expressing: If possible, pick a quiet time and a quiet room in which to express. Before you begin, take a few deep breaths and sit comfortably. Stress may hinder your milk from coming in, so it’s important to pick a time where you are not rushed or feeling anxious. Hearing a baby, or thinking about your baby, acts as a stimulant for your milk to come in, also known as the “letdown reflex”. When you sit down to express, think of your baby. It may even help to keep one of his toys or a piece of clothing with you. Some moms find that gently massaging their breasts for a few minutes before they begin expressing helps to get the milk flowing. Top tip: gently stroke your breasts downwards towards the nipple to stimulate the letdown reflex. Not everyone is the same, and you’ll find a time of day that works best for you, but for many women, first thing in the morning is a practical time as their breasts feel full when they wake up. Warmth increases blood flow to your breasts, which should make expressing easier. Before you express, have a warm shower or bath or apply a warm towel or hot pack to your breasts. Vital Baby has two breast pumps on offer to make your pumping experience easy and enjoyable. The vital baby® NURTURE™ flexcone™ electric breast pump (R2259.99), with its super soft silicone breast cup and flexcone™ provides cushioning around your breast and mimics the suckling action of your baby to provide the most natural and effective breast milk expression. The vital baby® NURTURE™ flexcone™ manual breast pump (R599.99), with its unique super soft silicone breast cup and flexcone™ massages the breast by gently mimicking the natural suckling action of your baby to provide the most natural and effective experience. Vital Baby products are available at: Clicks, Babies R Us, Baby City and online at Babies Africa, Loot and Takealot. Learn more about Vital Baby on www.vitalbaby.co.za or follow them on social media @vitalbabysa.

September 21, 2020

PCOS: You’re Not Alone – A Plea for Ovarian Health Consciousness

Acne, weight problems, excess hair, irregular periods – what if it’s all connected? This new ovarian health research asks you to take a minute for yourself and reflect … Every day, millions of women of every age and culture look at themselves in the mirror and see something that no one else does. We see that little bit of weight no diet or lifestyle changes seem to be able to fix. The excess oil, unwanted hairs and pimples that just won’t go away. We look straight past the beauty that’s there and see the girl who needs medication to have a normal period. Or the woman who’s umpteenth pregnancy test has come back negative. And we ask: why me? Why can’t I be normal? Funny thing is, that’s almost all of us. We just don’t talk about it. And perhaps it’s time that changed. Turns out, you’re not alone Over the past few years, doctors and researchers have been looking into a poorly understood and underdiagnosed ovarian health condition, known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). And we’ve made a few startling discoveries along the way. PCOS impacts your ovaries and can cause infertility, and it’s usually only discovered when a woman struggles to conceive. But new research says that PCOS can show up at any age and as some of the most common “everyday” symptoms women experience today: Irregular, missed (or absent) menstrual cycles Weight loss or weight gain (the kind that you feel you can’t control) Acne, pimples and oily skin Excess hair growth And, in later life, difficulty falling pregnant Recognise these? The message is: You’re not alone. Research has shown 1 in every 10 women might have PCOS. What is PCOS really? New studies show that PCOS actually starts with your metabolism. Researchers realised that the bodies of most women with PCOS have trouble processing insulin, the hormone it uses to extract and store the energy from carbohydrates. And if your body struggles with insulin, it builds up in your blood and triggers your ovaries to overproduce androgen (male hormone). The technical term for that is hyperandrogenism, and you can probably already guess its symptoms: acne, excess hair growth, weight problems, irregular periods and infertility. Suddenly it all makes sense. You’re not weird or different. It’s more common than you think. And you can get help right now. If you think you might have PCOS Now, of course, not every pimple or stray hair indicates a serious underlying cause. But if you’ve really been battling with one or more of these conditions, the good news is you can get yourself tested and know for sure. Your doctor or gynae will be able to advise. And it doesn’t matter what age you are. In your teens, you might just want some answers about your weight, acne, hair growth and those times you missed your period. Or, if you want to start a family, you might already have some trouble conceiving. Even later in life, if you’ve had some of these symptoms and just want to make sure the insulin part doesn’t become something more serious (yes, PCOS has been linked to diabetes). Just know, PCOS can be managed. In fact, we at Lamelle Pharmaceuticals have developed an exciting new product specifically to complement the treatment of PCOS and promote ovarian health. Have a look: INTRODUCING: ALL-NEW OVARIA Using an inspired blend of ingredients, including a naturally-occurring sugar that’s part of the vitamin B family, Ovaria is a brand-new ovarian-health nutritional supplement whose ingredients are proven to be just as effective as traditional treatments (metformin or glucophage) for PCOS, but without any of the side effects. The naturally-occurring ingredients in Ovaria bind to cell receptors, activating the signalling pathways that regulate thyroid hormones and, most importantly, insulin in the body. This means Ovaria helps normalise blood insulin levels, which normalises androgen and improves the symptoms of PCOS. THE INGREDIENTS IN OVARIA ARE PROVEN TO Increase ovulation rate in 16 weeks Increase menstruation cycles Reduce hirsutism (excess hair growth) by 29% in 6 months THE BENEFITS OF OVARIA Improves ovulation to enhance fertility in women Normalises the menstrual cycle – in case of period problems Improves insulin resistance – useful for managing weight problems Improves blood glucose level (fasting glucose) Reduces hirsutism – used for hair growth problems Reduces the severity of acne – used for acne problems Improves insulin resistance, reducing type 2 diabetes risk and its complications Reduces blood androgens – used for acne, excess hair and sebum NEW OVARIA FOR A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE Ovaria is a nutritional supplement that comes in powder form. Choose from two flavours – orange or peach. You simply tear open the sachet, mix the content with water and drink, once per day. Ovaria contains 4000mg of Myo-Inositol, the required daily dose clinically proven to be effective in the treatment of PCOS symptoms. Doctors will have more information on PCOS. And Ovaria is available from reputable pharmacies – or simply order it online via Lamelle’s health store: https://lamelle.co.za/health-store. RSP: R350.00

September 18, 2020

New normal, new routine

Every parent understands the concept and value of routine – it brings comfort and consistency to children’s lives. But as life as we know it has been turned on its head, and with parents juggling more responsibilities than ever before, the familiar routine most families relied on before has likely gone out the window. If this has left you anxious and overwhelmed, you are not alone. With the ‘new normal’ comes the need for a new routine; one that may look a little different than before. But adapting to a new routine can be challenging. Whether you are a home education veteran whose regular schedule or activities are upended or whether you are homeschooling for the first time (perhaps while working from home full time), here are some tips. Create a sense of normalcy Routine is good, but a rigid schedule has the potential to add even more anxiety to an already difficult situation. So, rather than set a strict daily schedule, aim to create a sense of normalcy that includes schoolwork, opportunities for play and creativity, mealtimes, and bedtime. This will allow children to have predictability in their day, which is vital in these uncertain times. Also read: How to help a child struggling with coronavirus anxiety Let go of traditional timelines Just because you are educating your child at home doesn’t mean you must follow conventional school hours. Everyone has a different situation, and all children have their own learning rhythms. To maximise learning, follow a plan that takes your family’s situation and your child’s preferences into account. This might mean doing schoolwork after dinner or even completing the bulk of it on weekends. Flexibility is key. Lower your expectations Try not to be too hard on yourself or your children if things don’t go as planned. It is important to maintain perspective: while academics are important, it is not the alpha and omega; a clean house is overrated; and, if you are working from home, your productivity will likely take a dip as you try to navigate school, household and work responsibilities. Let your children take ownership Schoolwork and chores must be done, but having some choice about how it is accomplished can help children feel less pressured. So why not let your children take some ownership of their day (and learn some responsibility and time management skills in the process)? Present some chores around the house and let them choose which they prefer and when or how to complete them. You can also give them a choice about what they would like to do once their schoolwork is done. Also read: Skill up during lockdown: life skills to teach your kids If at first you don’t succeed When it comes to home education, some days will be more challenging than others. If you or your children are having a difficult time and there are tears involved (yours or theirs), call it a day. You will only waste time and energy carrying on with the lesson. Taking full responsibly for your children’s education is very different to simply helping with homework. But you don’t have to be perfect, you don’t have to know everything, and you don’t have to do it alone. Recognising this will ease a lot of anxiety and frustration. Be kind and patient Especially with yourself. Parenting through a pandemic is uncharted territory. As well as worrying about your own health and that of your loved ones, you may have concerns about money and work. Add in disrupted routines and unexpected responsibilities, and even the most resilient parent may feel overwhelmed. In order to take care of your children, you need to take care of yourself. When trying to establish a new routine, consider your family’s situation and your children’s needs, try to remain flexible and open-minded, and know that sometimes the best way to maintain order amid the chaos is to change old habits or bend the rules. By Danielle Barfoot

September 18, 2020

Do the homework before choosing an online school

Parents and guardians considering online schooling for their children must ensure they properly vet the ability of a school to provide an holistic, meaningful educational experience coupled with excellent academic and emotional support, an education expert says. “There are a number of online schooling options on the market, and this offering has grown further as a result of Covid-19 and lockdowns,” says Colin Northmore, Principal of Evolve Online School, a brand of ADvTECH, Africa’s largest private education provider. “But just as parents would do their homework before enrolling their child at a contact education institution, they should also ask the right questions before deciding on an online learning institution,” he says. Northmore notes that many parents can attest to the frustrations experienced with online learning during lockdown, where the quality of offerings differed markedly. “Parents will by now have figured out that what their school offered was more or maybe less effective than what their friends’ children were getting, and clearly not all online delivery models are created equal. So, a first step before deciding on an online school, would be to enquire how efficiently current students of those schools who had to move from contact to online were able to continue their educational journey during lockdown,” he says. “Online schools have clearly differentiated offerings, and parents should take care to interrogate and clarify a school’s offering before enrolling, and in particular ensure that the curriculum is more than just ‘paper behind glass’,” he says. Northmore says that an online school focused on the developing the whole child while ensuring that academic excellence is maintained, must incorporate the following: Diagnostic testing to determine the exact level of proficiency of a student before placement, and during the educational journey; Asynchronous learning so that learners can move through content at their own pace and according to their own proficiency, with direct access to teachers who will facilitate extra activation classes; Synchronous learning where students will also be able to attend live interactive classes, and Socialisation opportunities with academies, studios and day camps so that students can mingle with their peers and balance their screen timewith green time. He says Evolve Online School has weekly webinars to allow parents to get a feel for the school’s offering, as well as ask the questions they need answered before enrolling. “It is highly recommended that parents attend such virtual events at any school they are considering for their child,” he says. Northmore adds that parents should ensure that substantial support is available for students and parents, because online schooling can be a very lonely and frustrating experience if such support is not available, particularly if an online school is merely copying and pasting physical classes into a virtual space. “Schools must have life coaches or the equivalent, who can help develop crucial 21st Century Skills and global competencies, in addition to the regular curriculum,” he says, “and each student’s learning experience must be tailored to their specific needs, so that they are encouraged to grow at a pace that suits their ability and enthusiasm.” It is not enough for an online school to simply focus on delivering a curriculum, he says. “For a rewarding and successful online schooling experience, there should be a strong focus on all skills – foundational, social and emotional. Our children are growing up in a world very different from the one in which we grew up. Things that we, as adults, deal with and take in our stride they are already facing at a very young age. Therefore online schools should offer substantial support to help teach students how to deal with issues such as stress and anxiety, while helping them develop important coping mechanisms, resilience and a growth mindset,” he says.

September 18, 2020

Sore nipples are often a reason that mothers stop breastfeeding

Breastfeeding should be a comfortable and rewarding experience and it is so sad when this is not achieved because of lack of support or sore nipples. Sore nipples are often a reason that mothers stop breastfeeding. Try to picture feeding your child but being in agony the whole time. It is terrible. I do not think that many people understand how painful these can be. I have heard them described as having hundreds of needles pushing into them or as if sandpaper is being rubbed on the tip of the nipple. Nipples can be damaged in different ways including redness, small cracks to deep cracks with severe nipple trauma. This type of damage is excruciating, and no one should ever have to endure such pain. What can be done about it and how can we improve a mother’s breastfeeding experience? The good news is that if you have sore nipples there are a few ways that Ameda can assist to help the nipples heal while the mother is learning how to improve her breastfeeding. The first thing that needs to be checked is the latch. Latch simply means how the baby is attached to the breast. The most common reason for sore nipples is a shallow latch. This is when the baby only has the tip of the nipple in his/her mouth. This will cause pain and damage to the nipple. When a baby has good attachment to the breast, the mother’s nipple will go all the way to the back of the baby’s mouth. To find out how far back this is use your tongue. Move it from your front teeth backwards over your hard pallet until it feels soft. This is your soft palate and is how far back a deep latch should go. Hence the name deep latch. The tops signs to look for that show a deep latch are Lips flanged out- Wide gaping mouth to accommodate the areolar and nipple A symmetric latch- More areolar visible above the baby’s top lip Tummy to Mummy- Baby’s ears, shoulders, and hips inline. If baby is too far away from the breast it makes it very difficult to get a deep latch. Chin on breast- By placing the baby’s chin on the breast , it helps to tilt the baby’s head upwards which in turns helps to open the baby’s throat for easier swallowing Have a listen and watch- Active suckling and swallowing are good indicators of milk transfer The nipple should stay the same shape before and after a feed. If the nipple has a white line or changes shape this means that the baby’s tongue/ gums are putting pressure on your nipple which can result in pain. What can be done if a mother has sore or painful nipples? Firstly, contact a lactation consultant to assist with a latch and to assess for other issues that may cause the pain Nipple shields can be used as a temporary “band-aid” to help the nipple heal while still direct feeding off it. When purchasing a nipple shield it is important to know how to fit it correctly as you can get different sizes: 16mm, 20mm and 24mm. Sizing is important as you need to have a comfortable fit. It is also important to put the nipple shield on correctly so that the nipple is drawn up into the cap of the shield. This will allow the baby to latch on to the shield with a deep latch. You also need to look for a nipple shield that is ultra-thin. Like the Ameda Silicone nipple shields this allows for maximum stimulation in the baby’s mouth. This is important as thick nipple shields can reduce a mothers milk supply and then she may need to pump after each feed to ensure that her breasts have been emptied. Nipple shields are also used with baby’s that have tongue ties. The shield helps to protect the nipple before the baby can have a tongue tie correction. For more information about nipple shields ComfortGel® HydroGel Pads. These are an amazing aid to help damaged nipples heal. They give instant relief and help to sooth sore nipples. They help create a moist wound environment that is recommended for optimal wound care. Pads fit discreetly and securely inside most nursing bras for extra cushioning and protection from rubbing against clothing while healing. Long life, pads can be rinsed and reused for as long as 6 days. Nipple Shells help to keep fabric friction away for any damaged nipples in between feeds. The shells allow the nipples to have air movement and can collect any dripping milk. This helps to prevent thrush and other infections which can cause other issues like mastitis. An added benefit of the Ameda Duo Shells is that they also can be used to help pull out inverted nipples in a gentle way. Triple Zero Lanolin cream is 100% pure lanolin and is great to have in your maternity bag when you go to hospital. The lanolin helps to sooth nipples and does not need to be washed off while baby feeds. You can also use your breast pump to let your nipples heal while keeping up your milk supply. It is so important to find a breast pump that fits you well. The Ameda range of breast pumps have seven different size flanges making sure that you will be able to find your best fit. This is important because you do not want your flange to be too tight fitting and rub on your nipple. It is reassuring that with Ameda mothers can get help if breastfeeding is painful for them. It is also great to know that sore nipples do not necessarily mean that it is the end of a mothers breastfeeding journey. If a mother with sore nipples can allow her nipples to heal properly while working on getting her latch deeper, she will be able to change her journey from discomfort to a much more satisfying, comfortable

September 17, 2020

Purity get’s baby Emma’s stamp of approval

Purity has become a trusted household name in Emma’s house, with mom and dad giving it their seal of approval. With so many products on the market, it is difficult to know which brands you can safely trust. Established in 1924, Purity has built credibility, developing and refining their wide range of products. Emma’s parents have been using the Purity range since her birth and certainly won’t be swopping anytime soon. “We just love that Purity offers us a perfect range of products to use for Emma, that is easily accessible whether we choose to purchase in the supermarket, or online.” We love the fragrance as it is not overpowering and gives Emma that new born smell (every mother’s dream) Even as little Emma is getting bigger now, it is nice to have a brand that works, keeping her skin soft and moisturised even in the harsh elements that South Africa experiences. Purity is a trusted name when it comes to baby care and I’ve been using their products since my daughter was born. I love that the range covers everything from bathing to bum cream. My daughter was born with a full head of hair which she never lost, so the de-tangling shampoo has helped a lot! Using purity products, she smells great, has never had a day’s happy rash and always feels as soft as a baby should. Their new range features no parabens, sulphates or colorants which is just what we are looking for to keep Emma’s skin healthy! Here is a short extract from Purity on their new and improved range: “PURITY’s has a comprehensive range of products suitable for the entire family. Starting your pregnancy journey with their Nipple Cream and Stretch Mark Cream proven to decrease the appearance of stretch marks within 4 weeks of use. The Petroleum Jelly with moisture control and Aqueous Creams range with 48-hour moisturisation protects the most delicate skin. The PURITY’s Toiletries launch is a culmination of two years’ worth of research and development. We reviewed local and international trends. We spoke to parents to get a deeper understanding of their needs and challenges when it came to the care and protection of their children’s delicate hair and skin. We were also guided by our Panel of Experts which includes a dermatologist, a paediatrician, and an allergist in developing a range of Toiletries that meet parents and their babies’ needs. At PURITY we want to partner with parents along their journey. We believe that our range of specially developed Toiletries are a step in the right direction of helping little ones reach their full potential,” says Managing Director of Tiger Brand’s Baby Division, Mpho Toolo The new PURITY range, now available in retail stores, provides only the best, gentle and effective care products by offering an enriching formula for mom, dad and baby. “ Don’t forget to enter this month’s giveaway to win BIG with our favourite Brand… Purity

September 17, 2020

Dairy, centrepiece of the Kid’s food table

From infancy through the teen years, children have particular nutritional needs to support their healthy growth. The culture of food they grow up in, and their food choices in the home and at school, also influence whether or not they will be lifelong healthy eaters. Unfortunately, there is probably no greater aspect of our daily lives that is more inundated by misinformation and fads than our food. In the midst of constantly changing, attention-grabbing ‘trends’ and the plethora of ‘latest miracle foods’, there’s a real danger that the sensible, balanced nutritional needs of children get put on the backburner. The wake-up call for South African families is in our cold hard statistics which reveal a double burden of disease with persistent stunting and wasting, as well as rising child obesity. Under-nutrition, which results in stunting and wasting that have lifetime impacts, remains a significant problem in South Africa’s low-income communities. The problem is, unfortunately, expected to be exacerbated by the ongoing economic impacts of Covid19. Obesity is a major health risk, predisposing us to diseases such as Type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Dietary intake associated with under- or overweight impact on both the physical growth and cognitive development of children who are then unable to realise their full potential in life. Through the celebration of milk’s inclusion in school nutrition programmes, the 21st World School Milk Day on 30 September 2020 is a reminder that other food and health concerns should never eclipse the need for meeting our children’s needs for daily eating regimes that promote their healthy growth. Maretha Vermaak, the registered dietitian at Rediscover Dairy says, “Over so many decades, scientific research has confirmed that dairy offers a unique food matrix of bio-available nutrients that supports healthy development in children. Milk, maas, yogurt and cheese offer specific diversity and versatility, so that it is easy to find dairy options for children and ensure that your family meets the recommendation of 2 to 3 portions of dairy a day.” Scientifically sound nutritional information is essential for families and schools. This empowers them to make good food choices and prioritise the nutritional needs of children. Understanding that calcium-rich dairy plays a vital role in bone development, not only for small children but during the teen years when bone density development is accelerated, helps parents to make sure that the family gets enough of the key nutrients provided by dairy. Dairy is not only a calcium-provider for healthy bones and teeth. It is an important source of affordable, high quality protein and is packed with vitamins such as A, B2, and B12, as well as potassium and zinc. Dairy Ideas for Kids No matter their income, many South African families fall short of the recommendations for 2 to 3 servings of dairy a day. However, given the versatility of dairy, it is really easy to include it in meals, snacks and drinks. Add milk or maas to oats and other porridges Add dairy to every lunchbox – cheese wedges and cheese as sandwich filling; small yoghurts; cottage cheese and yoghurt-based dips for vegetables and crackers A simple toasted cheese sandwich is a firm favourite among children Make delicious smoothies with milk and yoghurt with fresh fruits Add milk or buttermilk and cheeses to scrambled eggs and omelettes Melted cheese topping is always a winner that goes with many savoury dishes, vegetables and bread Bake with milk, buttermilk and yoghurt. Top cakes and muffins with cream cheese icing to add more nutrients to your treat Make easy frozen yoghurt popsicles or pots for healthy treats Replace sweetened cold drinks with milk or milkshakes made with fruits or flavoured milk “Parents need to remember that when it comes to eating behaviour, they are the most powerful role models,” says Vermaak, “One of the easiest ways to ensure your kids consume enough dairy is to make sure it is available at home and for them to see you enjoying dairy too.” Through its Consumer Education Project (CEP), Rediscover Dairy partners with National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) of the Department of Basic Education (DBE) to highlight World School Milk Day. The NSNP includes dairy once a week in their school feeding programme to support South African children most vulnerable to stunting and wasting. The CEP makes fun information and teacher resources available for Grades R to 7 at http://www.dairykids.co.za/ Parents who are home-schooling due to COVID-19 can download curriculum-aligned interactive posters, worksheets, fact sheets and teaching guides. Children learn all about the healthy eating, SA’s food-based dietary guidelines, the role of dairy in healthy eating and the farm-to-table processing of dairy. For more dairy ideas join the Rediscover Dairy Facebook page: www.facebook.com/RediscoverDAIRY

September 16, 2020

Be a big kid yourself and play! – the science is finding it could be the best way to de-stress

Any adult, parent or grandparent can recognise the look of delight in a child’s eyes when they are fascinated by a favourite toy. Over the last few years, research has found that playtime is much more than fun for kids. Whether it’s playing ‘peek-a-boo’ with your baby, ‘let’s pretend’ with your toddler, or airplanes with your three-year-old, play has been found to stimulate their social skills, imagination and language development. But it turns out that playtime isn’t just important for little ones. A growing number of studies are finding that it’s surprisingly good for you too. In fact, as parents lead increasingly busy lives, entering your child’s imaginative world could be the single easiest thing you can do to de-stress. Dr Jacqueline Harding is a leading child development expert and a senior lecturer at the University of Middlesex. She has just finished the first review of the evidence on the effects of playing with children has on grown-ups to coincide with the launch of Fisher Price’s new campaign, Let’s be Kids, which celebrates seeing the world as kids see it. And she says the science is finding it’s the ultimate two-way street. Indeed, Dr Harding, who has looked at more than 100 research papers, says that far from seeing playing with kids as a ‘guilty pleasure’, we should see it as an essential ‘antidote’ to adult stress. Dr Harding says: ‘There’s tons of research out there on the value of play to children. ‘But less is known about the mutual benefits.‘By looking at research across a range of disciplines around play, we are starting to join the dots and recognise that grown-ups reap huge advantages too.’ It seems the timing of the findings couldn’t have come at a better time. As a parenting author of ten books, many of which examine how stress can suck the joy out of parenting unless we take steps to mitigate it, this is welcome news. In books like ‘Mum Hacks’ and ‘What’s My Child Thinking?’, I have charted how economic uncertainty, long working hours and rising child costs, as well as the pressure to feel like the perfect parent, has made the parental balancing act feel tougher than ever. So Dr Harding’s conclusions that play can be as stress-relieving for adults as it is for kids, feel like the ultimate win-win. Dr Harding also believes the review is timely. She says: ‘It’s widely agreed that humans are carving out a way of life that is characterised by unprecedented levels of stress. The Mental Health Foundation found that 74 per of adults felt very stressed, that rose to 81 per cent in women. Until now, we had a hunch that play can also calm an adult’s physiological responses, but now we are seeing the big picture to show that more conclusively.’ So why is playtime such a powerful de-stressor for adults? The secret is the feed-back loop that happens when you connect through play. Dr Harding says: ‘Entering a game with a child increases levels of well-being chemicals in both your brains – mood-enhancing endorphins and the bonding hormone oxytocin. This, in turn, reduces the levels of stress hormones, like cortisol, which can build up when we lead busy, stressful lives.’ ‘Playing with your child also seems to tap into adults’ memories, recalling times when for some perhaps life felt simpler and more joyful’. All play is good for you, but to get the best benefits, Dr Harding advises taking steps to really be in the moment with your child. ‘If you feel shy at first, try some practical steps to get going, like getting down on the floor with them. ‘That helps take us away from that adult world where we can sometimes feel like the weight of the world is on our shoulders. The other important thing is sit face-to-face so you have eye contact. Put aside your phone too so your child feels secure in the knowledge that nothing will interrupt your time together. When you are both on the same level, making eye contact and focussing on a third thing, like a toy, that sends out the message: “We’re both really interested in this together.’ This is a process Dr Harding calls ‘play triangulation’, or joint enjoyment of a plaything. ‘This can start as soon as between nine and twelve months when babies start to shift their attention for longer periods and enjoy sharing an interest in an object.’ While it may not happen every time, the best playtimes come when you and your child enter a state of ‘flow’, says Dr Harding. This is when you are both so engrossed that you lose track of time and it feels as if your imaginations are flying away together. Dr Harding says: ‘As your emotional states start to match, your brain network starts to get in synch too. When you are both completely in the moment, this evokes a fabulous sense of wellbeing in both of you. Your heart rate goes down; your breathing relaxes and that’s a good place for both of you to be.’ The research also uncovers benefits for older generations, which is a good reason to get grandparents involved in playtime as well. Positive interactions with others not only reduce social isolation of older adults but can promote health and well-being. In addition, active play has the potential to prevent cognitive decline that can happen as people age by activating processes that help maintain individual brain cells and stimulate connections between neurons So next time life seems a little too rushed, don’t look for ways to speed up on the hamster wheel to try and things get done –and as the new Fisher Price research review suggests: ‘spend less time growing up and a little more time growing down.’ Instead, look for an on opportunity to step off it for a play session with your child. However long you have together, far from being a waste of time, picking out their favourite toy and inventing a game around it could be the best use of your time. Dr Harding says:

September 16, 2020

The fourth industrial revolution is here – are your kids ready?

The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) is more than just a catchy buzzword. To understand this term, it is necessary to look at the origins and outcomes of the preceding industrial revolutions, as these set the foundation for the advent of the fourth industrial revolution. The first industrial revolution (1760-1840) was brought about by the invention of the steam engine. Why a “revolution”? Because this technology rapidly changed the way society organized itself – from an agrarian, artisanal society, to a more mechanized one. For example, dresses were no longer handmade by a local seamstress, but produced in a textile factory by machines. Average income and population growth soared. Rapid urbanization took place. The second industrial revolution (1870-1914) expanded on the technologies introduced during the first industrial revolution. Railroad and telegraph lines expanded, ushering in a wave of globalization. The invention of electricity and the telephone also emerged during the time. This industrial revolution finally brought the concept of standardization and the assembly line to the fore, as pioneered by the Ford motor company in 1913. The economic outcome of this was tangible. Economic life organized itself around the mass production of consumer goods. Mega-corporations emerged, which could control segments of the market. There is even an economic theory centred on this outcome – aptly called Fordism. Finally, the third industrial revolution was bought about by the invention of the semiconductor. This led to a slew of innovative technologies, most of which are well known to us by now, such as mainframe computing, personal computing and the internet. This still begs the question however, what is the fourth industrial revolution and what will its outcomes be? And most importantly, how can you ensure your child’s readiness to face these rapid changes? Similar to preceding industrial revolutions, the fourth industrial revolution is being brought about by new technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, nanotechnology, cloud computing, quantum computing, machine learning, additive manufacturing, genetic modification and bioscience technologies, which are shaping the way we organize our societies. Just as artisanal dressmakers had to adapt to a changing society during the 1760s, so too will our children have to adapt to the changes arising from the current industrial revolution. The fourth industrial revolution will eliminate some jobs, but also create new ones in their stead. Children currently in grade R might someday fulfil a role that doesn’t even exist on paper yet. Other jobs will not necessarily be eliminated, but it will require people to adapt and to learn how to leverage these new technologies in their existing roles. One sector of society that has been relatively slow to adapt to changes being bought about by the fourth industrial revolution, is the education sector. The traditional education system is currently based on training factory workers, who had to focus on repetitive tasks for long hours. It is therefore not designed to foster critical and creative thinking, but rather to encourage compliance and regurgitation of facts. In an increasingly automated world, jobs which require repetition and regurgitation are rapidly being eliminated by machines and software. So which skills will be relevant in the coming fourth industrial revolution? And how can we ensure that our children will graduate from school with the necessary skills to thrive in this environment? According to a report by the World Economic Forum, titled “The Future of Jobs”, the skills that will be most in demand during the fourth industrial revolution are: Complex problem solving Critical thinking Creativity Managing people Coordinating with others Emotional intelligence Judgement and decision making Service orientation Negotiation Cognitive flexibility The industries tied to the defining 4IR technologies (robotics, artificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, nanotechnology, cloud computing, quantum computing, machine learning, additive manufacturing, genetic modification) will birth new areas of work. For example, traditional methods of manufacturing will increasingly be replaced with additive manufacturing technologies (3D printing), as the technology improves. Think 3D printing is just for hobbyists? Think again. Professor Mashudu Tshifularo from the University of Pretoria conducted a pioneering surgery in 2019, transplanting 3D printed middle-ear bones in a patient. In another example, NASA’s “Made in Space” 3D printer is being used by members of the International Space Station to print tools, reducing the number of objects that have to be stored onboard. It is also creating opportunities for recycling and re-use of materials – which in turn creates new opportunities to launch longer manned space missions to planets such as Mars. In conclusion, teaching our students the basis of these defining 4IR skills from a young age is vital. Ensure that your child’s educational provider incorporates elements such as coding, robotics, 3D printing and software development into their offering. Furthermore, jobs which require creative and critical thinking, as well as empathy and emotion – innate human qualities – are less likely to be replaced by an automated system. Learning should be about more than just what your child learns, but about how they learn it. Are they just repeating the solution presented to them by someone else, or being encouraged to discover a new solution of their own? Are they encouraged to solve problems creatively and taught to think analytically and independently? Fostering these skills in students will ensure that they are resilient and able to adapt to changing career and societal circumstances with ease. At Wingu Academy we pride ourselves on doing education differently. Students are introduced to subjects such as coding, robotics, 3D printing, CAD, app development and game development from an early age. Teaching pedagogies are based on a blended learning approach, which blends synchronous and asynchronous learning to allow and encourage independent study. Students are engaged with their work through interactive quizzes and simulations, as well as live class presentations by subject experts. The implementation of the application focused British International Curriculum further ensures that students develop critical thinking and problem solving skills. Visit our website at www.wingu-academy.com to learn more, or email us at [email protected]. Sources: https://medium.com/@dr.chukwudinwobodo/fourth-industrial-revolution-4ir-its-impact-on-education-97fcac1af2d5 https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.cnbc.com/amp/2019/01/16/fourth-industrial-revolution-explained-davos-2019.html https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.iol.co.za/amp/news/opinion/4irs-impact-on-education-calls-for-a-rethink-on-current-learning-and-teaching-models-50624601 http://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Future_of_Jobs.pdf

September 16, 2020

Resources – what to look for and how to choose them

In this article, we explore homeschooling resources, how to identify what you think you need versus what you actually need for your child, and how to be more cost-effective. A point to always remember is, just because it’s expensive doesn’t mean it’s effective. Resources. What a broad, generic term. Ranging in meaning from books to equipment, posters, manipulatives, electronic, cloud-based thingymagwadjee’s. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that you need every resource known to man when homeschooling your child. Firstly, resources can be rather costly and secondly, some of them are completely unnecessary! In the beginning, I would suggest buying a decent-sized whiteboard (because long division. I’ll leave it there) and a laminator. Both will serve you well, no matter whether you are homeschooling temporarily or as a permanent solution. Deciding on what you think you need versus what you really need versus what you really, really want can be a minefield. There are a few things to keep in mind when deciding what to spend your hard-earned cash on: Is the item fit for purpose? Is it age appropriate? Can you use the same thing for more than one child if you need to? Is it user-friendly? Just because it’s expensive doesn’t mean it’s effective. Some resources, like printable worksheets, are cost effective and convenient only if you have a printer at home. If you don’t, then off-the-shelf workbooks (like those found in our School-In-A-Box!) would probably be a better option for you. Your pantry also contains many interesting materials. Rice or flour for working with weight and learning about mass. Pretty much anything you can think of when learning about numbers and operations (jellybeans, Smarties, – division and subtraction are taught quite effectively with these, haha). A few things are have-to-haves, like good grade-appropriate dictionaries, a thesaurus for older kids, quality reference books like a world atlas or encyclopedia. The CAPS teacher’s guides (available to purchase from Mindscape Education and learner books (in your School-In-A-Box) give an overview of materials needed to complete each lesson and it is worth having a leisurely page-through of these books when you first start out. My suggestion is to begin with the minimum and carefully re-evaluate your needs as you continue your homeschooling journey. Interested in homeschooling your child? Feel free to Mindscape Education, e-mail [email protected] or call (+27) 11-704-0687. Hadeda Promotion: Enrol your child with MindScape Education by 30 November 2020 and pay 2020 fees. Visit the Mindscape Education website to find out more about our curriculum options.

September 15, 2020

Ten tips to upgrade your work-from-home experience

If working from home is your new normal, so too are the aches, pains and headaches that come from being hunched over a laptop in a dark corner of the bedroom or a makeshift home office. Many office-based workers aren’t going to be returning to the office any time soon. Even when the lockdown is over a proportion of those will want to continue working from home at least a few days a week. The convenience of working from home, avoiding South Africa’s notorious urban rush-hour gridlocks and the increased productivity that most WFH advocates claim, all help make the case for a workforce that gets up and gets to work in the same place. If you’re one of them and working from home is a long-term reality, it’s time to chuck out the telephone directories you’ve been using to prop up your laptop, telling the kids to stop using all the bandwidth before your next Zoom meeting, save a bit of money on the chiropractor and invest in some decent tech. You’ll probably have a work-supplied laptop. The big advantage of laptops are they’re portable. You can work anywhere. The major drawback is that they’re an ergonomic disaster. Anyone who’s spent a few hours hunched over a tiny keyboard, squinting at a spreadsheet and doesn’t feel like they’ve been lifting bags of concrete either has rubber shoulders and wrists or a very expensive physio. Shafeeqah Isaacs, head of consumer education at financial services provider, DirectAxis, says by investing a little in a few bits of technology and some decidedly low-tech solutions you can make some of the pain and frustrations of working at home go away. “So many of us just adapted to working from home as a necessity, but perhaps didn’t give much thought to how we were setting up our workspaces and the potential implications, in terms of our own comfort and ability to do the job as efficiently and professionally as in the office.” As a first step to banish the Hunchback of Excel Spreadsheets, get a decent keyboard. There are plenty on the market, from standard keyboards that plug into a USB port on your laptop to fancier, more expensive alternatives that connect via Bluetooth and even ergonomically designed versions. Choose one that suits your budget, needs and preferences. Then you’ll need to consider how to get your monitor at eye-height so a few hours at your desk doesn’t literally become a pain in the neck. Rather than the pile of telephone directories or old shoe box you’ve been using, there are plenty of adjustable laptop stands you can buy which allow you to lift the screen to a comfortable height. If you have the space and money, an alternative is to buy a monitor. Again, there are plenty of options and price points, depending on whether you need the definition to do high-end graphic design or just want to knock out a deck of PowerPoint slides. Now you’ve solved the shoulder and neck issues, give some thought to your wrist. An ergonomically designed Bluetooth mouse paired with a gel wrist rest should help keep repetitive strain injuries like the dreaded carpal tunnel syndrome at bay. Alternatively, a small bean bag can do the trick. Depending on your set-up you may now be running short of USB ports to plug in the keyboard, monitor, phone, external hard-drive and whatever other equipment you need. If that is a problem, consider a USB hub which allows you to plug in and charge multiple devices. Decent technology will go some way to making your home office a more comfortable place to work, but don’t overlook the basics. Even the tech set-up is unlikely to compensate for an unsuitable or uncomfortable chair. Ideally get one where you can adjust the height and back support, so you can configure it to best suit your optimal working position. If a good chair is out of your budget, set a timer on your phone to remind you to have a break and stretch every hour or so. While you’re at it think about lighting. Natural light is best, but there may not be enough where you’ve set yourself up. Also remember that if you’re doing video calls, too much natural light or light coming from behind you can make it difficult for other participants to see you. An adjustable desk lamp may be the solution. Having sorted the ergonomics, you can now turn your attention to dealing with some of the other frustrations attendant to working from home. With children not at school and possibly a spouse or partner also working from home, all gobbling bandwidth, you may need to upgrade your broadband package, particularly if you’re doing a lot of video meetings. Conferencing apps such as Zoom and Teams typically need fast broadband connections to run effectively and can consume quite a lot of data. Where possible, keep your video off and use voice-only to save data. You should also check your router. If it hasn’t been replaced in the past six years, think about getting a new one. This should increase the speed and range. If children, noisy neighbours or other distractions are interfering with your productivity or interrupting your video calls, a set of noise-cancelling headphones might be the answer. Most models now have built-in microphones, so can be used for online meetings. Another consideration for a comfortable, efficient and effective home-office set up is a decent multi-function printer. Being able to print, scan and copy at home means clients won’t have to wait until you’re next in the office or can visit a copy shop for a scan of a contract or other documentation. You should also familiarise yourself with the Fill and Sign options on your PDF readers. Using digital tools for managing and storing documents will save you printing costs, and it’s good for the planet. If you’re interested in more tips about working from home visit: https://www.directaxis.co.za/make-a-plan/stop-work-from-home-burnout

September 14, 2020

Purity toiletries introduces their purest formulation yet!

Introducing PURITY Toiletries range, with the trusted expertise from Elizabeth Anne’s. Clinically tested to ensure it is mild and gentle, PURITY provides only the best, gentle, and effective products for parents and their little one. Free from sulphates, parabens and colourants, and Consultant Dermatologist and Paediatrician approved, ensuring your little one’s skin and hair are protected and cared for throughout their journey of a lifetime. Launching 11 September 2020, PURITY’s panel of experts will host a discussion on the significance of the improved formulation, pertinent issues around parenting and PURITY as a longstanding, reliable brand. Part of the panel will be Clinical Psychologist, Jenny Perkel; Registered Nurse, Midwife and Childbirth Educator, Lynne Bluff and Specialist Paediatrician and Certified Allergist Dr Thulja Trikamjee. As host, media personality and mom, Jo-Ann Strauss, will lead the panel, which will inform, support and engage both moms and dads in their parenting milestones. The panellists will discuss the importance of PURITY’s improved range with no parabens, sulphates and colourants for sensitive skin. The types of skin conditions that babies may experience vary. Guidance will be given on how to identify, treat and prevent particular conditions. This will give light to understanding the delicacy of their baby’s skin and how they can better care of and nourish it, through clinically tested products. PURITY’s has a comprehensive range of products suitable for the entire family. Starting your pregnancy journey with their Nipple Cream and Stretch Mark Cream proven to decrease the appearance of stretch marks within 4 weeks of use. The Petroleum Jelly with moisture control and Aqueous Creams range with 48-hour moisturisation protects the most delicate skin. PURITY Soap Bars free from sulphates, colourants and with a non-allergenic fragrance gently cleanse and moisturise little hands and bodies. With a tear-free formulation PURITY’s Shampoo and Bath range is perfect for bath-time splashes. Treat little one to a after bath massage with PURITY’s moisturizing Oil range keeping little one’s skin smooth and cared for to enjoy many more cuddles. Keep baby comfy and fresh all day with PURITY’s Baby Powder Range which absorbs excess moisture without drying out little one’s delicate skin. Help prevent, soothe, and protect your little one from nappy rash with PURITY’s Bum range enriched with Zinc Oxide, and with the new spray format it is easy to apply and mess free. PURITY’s Laundry range is great for cleaning and protecting baby’s delicate clothes and blankets. The Laundry Wash, Stain Remover and Fabric Conditioner, are tough on stains and gentle on the fabrics as its free from chlorine & colourants. Their Disinfectant Solution is specially formulated to kill up to 99.99% of germs. It is chlorine and colourant free thus safe to use to cleanse bottles, teats, soothers, toys, surfaces and other objects which come to contact with your baby. PURITY also offers product ranges in: Fragrance Free for sensitive skins; Good Nights for bedtime calming, with non-allergenic fragrance Fresh range, suitable for the whole family with non-allergenic fragrance “The PURITY’s Toiletries launch is a culmination of two years’ worth of research and development. We reviewed local and international trends. We spoke to parents to get a deeper understanding of their needs and challenges when it came to the care and protection of their children’s delicate hair and skin. We were also guided by our Panel of Experts which includes a dermatologist, a paediatrician, and an allergist in developing a range of Toiletries that meet parents and their babies’ needs. At PURITY we want to partner with parents along their journey. We believe that our range of specially developed Toiletries are a step in the right direction of helping little ones reach their full potential,” says Managing Director of Tiger Brand’s Baby Division, Mpho Toolo The new PURITY range, now available in retail stores, provides only the best, gentle and effective care products by offering an enriching formula for mom, dad and baby.

September 14, 2020

BEST STUDY HACKS TO GET YOU THROUGH MATRIC 2020

At the best of times preparing for matric exams is one of the most stressful life experiences. So, how are you going to handle yourself in the year of a global pandemic and the rollercoaster ride response? 2020 has been nothing short of wild, and the current matric cohort is going to need smart support and ideas to keep a cool head as they tackle their studies and journey through this final stage of school life. “The good news is that no matter the chaos and uncertainty around you, you can still take charge of yourself,” says Counselling Psychologist, Lauren Martin who is on the panel at an upcoming SACAP (South African College of Applied Psychology) webinar, Study hacks to get through matric exams. “There is no doubt that healthy, emotional well-being is important for positive functioning in life, including academic success. However, healthy, emotional well-being does not mean we live a life free of experiencing discomforts or unpleasant emotions. Rather, we learn that academic success can be achieved while experiencing challenging states and circumstances. So, yes the world has flipped upside down. But you can still take control of your future, and matrics can start right now to prepare themselves emotionally, physically and mentally to get through their exams.” The trick is not to look for a silver bullet. Rather, the experts recommend a mixed bag of study hacks including movement as matric medicine, study strategies to achieve success, healthy eating for healthy results and emotional well-being as a tool to boost performance. Esmarie Cilliers, a Registered Counsellor in private practice with a special interest in Developmental Psychology and Personal Growth points out: “Studying for success is not a question of luck or talent alone. Researchers agree that students who have a strategy or a plan for how they are going to study, achieve the best outcomes. Students who follow a plan and scientific study methods learn more easily, retain information for longer periods of time, and save themselves hours of study time which enables them to have more balance in their lives.” Dr Diana De Sousa, SACAP’s Head of Teaching and Learning emphasizes that the psychological adaptions we have all had to make in response to COVID-19 provide a phenomenal life lesson in resilience. “Matrics can embrace their growing independence and choose to view this incredibly challenging time as an opportunity to improve self-discipline, time management and study skills,” she says. “It is our own inner attributes that help us to harness the motivation, will power, creativity and coping skills that will unlock the 2020 matric cohorts’ potential and empower them to succeed.” Of course, mental toughness and emotional resilience do not stand on their own. We’re much more likely to find the courage and spirit we need if we are also caring for ourselves physically. Sufficient sleep, supportive nutrition and being physically active every day too often fall by the wayside when study pressures mount. “How we eat directly affects our energy levels and concentration,” Nathalie Mat, a clinical dietitian with a special interest in child and adolescent nutrition. “Eating balanced meals and snacks with a variety of foods results in good blood sugar control. When our blood sugar control is smooth as silk, meaning no sugar highs followed by lows, we’re able to keep laser-like focus for longer. Quick fixes like coffee and energy drinks may promise a mental boost but are not ideal sources of nutrition and do not fuel our brains. High caffeine intake can affect sleep which further decreases concentration and learning. What we eat and drink impacts our ability to think clearly and concentrate for long periods of time. Fueling your brain well will help you excel!” One of the easiest traps to fall into over an extended study period is sitting still for hours on end. While, some may think long hours at a desk is evidence of discipline and virtue, it is actually counter-productive to learning. Biokineticist, Joshua Marc De Hahn explains, “Our blood carries the nutrients, hormones and oxygen that supply our brain and body. With slow circulation and low volumes flowing throughout the body while we sit for extended periods, our brain and body do not function optimally. Physical activity increases our heart rate, the volume of blood pumped around the body and the amount of oxygen we consume, this creates an environment where more blood is flowing to the brain, which in turn means more oxygen and more nutrients reach the brain. This results in a brain and body that can function at a much more optimal level.” To find out more about how movement is matric medicine and how easy it can be to get physically, mentally and emotionally in shape for the exams, matrics can tune into SACAP’s free webinar Study hacks to get through matric exams on Saturday, 19 September at 10:00 am. You will have one hour with the four expert panellists who will give you the game-plan to give the exams your very best shot despite this crazy year. There will also be a Q&A session so that you can address any personal challenges in a supportive and caring environment. Join SACAP for our Study Hacks Session on how to get through the matric exams with less stress. Register for the free Zoom webinar on Saturday, 19 September at 10:00 – 11:00: https://www.sacap.edu.za/events/student-study-hacks-19-september-2020/ For any matriculant who is interested in the field of psychology, counselling, Human Resource Management or Business Management, SACAP offers a wide range of qualifications, including Higher Certificate, Advances Certificate, BAppSocSci (Majoring in Psychology and Counselling), BAppSocSci (Majoring in Psychology and Human Resource Management), BappSocSci (Majoring in Psychology and Business Managemet), BPsych, and a one-of-a-kind approach to learning: academic rigour and applied skills. Graduating confident skilled practitioners is key, which is why SACAP combines an academically rigorous curriculum with a strong emphasis on the ability to apply knowledge through the training of relevant skills. Registration for 2021 Term One, is now open and class space is

September 14, 2020

8 Breastfeeding myths busted

There is an abundance of information available on breastfeeding. From books, to videos, to promotional material and online articles, preparing yourself for the breastfeeding journey seems easier than ever before. However, despite all the information available at our fingertips, there are still too many myths being punted as truths. Here are ten of the most common myths you may have come across. Myth 1: Babies that are breastfed become clingy. Truth: Some babies and children are clingy, and others aren’t. There is absolutely no evidence to suggest it has anything to do with whether or not they were breastfed. Myth 2: If your baby feeds often, they are not getting enough milk or nutrients. Truth: Breast milk is very easy for babies to digest, which means that breastfed babies generally get hungrier more quickly than formula-fed babies. Newborn babies will feed every two to three hours and it is normal for baby to feed often. Regular feeding does not indicate that there is anything wrong with your breast milk. Myth 3: If you get ill, you should immediately stop breastfeeding Truth: If you catch a cold or flu, continuing to breastfeed your baby will protect them from the virus. By the time a mother’s symptoms develop, she would have already passed the virus on to her baby, and baby’s best protection against the virus is their mother’s breastmilk. Myth 4: Breastfeeding protects you from getting pregnant Truth: The number of families with children ten or eleven months apart in age serves as major evidence against this myth! Whilst breastfeeding offers around 98% protection, it is not guaranteed birth control. Myth 5: You have to follow a plain diet while breastfeeding Truth: Breastfeeding moms should follow a balanced diet. There is no need to avoid flavoursome foods, as baby would have been exposed to mom’s eating habits while they were in the womb. If your baby reacts to a specific food you eat, it’s best to consult a medical practitioner. Myth 6: You have to wash your nipples every time before baby feeds. Truth: There is no need to wash your nipples before breastfeeding. The nipples actually produce a substance that baby can recognise and has good bacteria that helps build baby’s own healthy immune system. Myth 7: All breastfeeding moms experience pain and inflamed nipples Truth: While it is not uncommon for moms to develop cracked nipples or painful nipples, it is not inevitable that they will. And if they do, a consultation with a lactation expert could help solve the problem. There are various things you can do to eliminate pain – do not feel as if you have to suffer through it! Myth 8: Breastfeeding is easy. Truth: Both mom and baby’s bodies are naturally equipped for breastfeeding. Babies are born with the reflex to look for their mothers breast, and mom’s body knows exactly when to start producing milk. This, however, does not mean breastfeeding is easy. No matter how well you are prepared, breastfeeding is likely to pose challenges along the way, and for some moms, it may be a very difficult process to master. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Vital Baby knows the beauty of breastfeeding, but also recognises the challenges it may pose. That’s why all Vital Baby breastfeeding accessories have been designed for ease, comfort and convenience. Find your perfect breast pump, bottle, breast milk storage bags or breast pads here: https://www.vitalbaby.co.za/products/. Vital Baby products are available at: Clicks, Babies R Us, Baby City and online at Babies Africa, Loot and Takealot. Learn more about Vital Baby on www.vitalbaby.co.za or follow them on social media @vitalbabysa.

September 14, 2020

Elective surgeries – the disruption, the trends and back to business unusual

On 9 September, South Africa recorded 1990 new cases of the pandemic in 24 hours. The country has now slipped to the eighth worst affected nation in the world in terms of the number of Covid-19 infections. In spite of this elective surgery has been given the green light and its back to business – albeit with strict protocols in place to safeguard staff as well as patients. Almost five months ago elective surgeries came to a standstill. This was reflected in claiming patterns in the private healthcare sector during lockdown – a disruption of the norm globally. In South Africa, elective surgery in both the private and public healthcare space and specialists’ visits are just two of the areas which have been affected by Covid-19. The link between the two is clear: Fewer specialists’ visits mean fewer referrals for surgery. So what exactly is elective surgery? The term can be ambiguous. It does not mean, as the name implies, that the surgery is optional but rather that it doesn’t need to be performed immediately. It can be scheduled at the patient’s and surgeon’s convenience. Some of these surgeries are necessary to prolong life, for example an angioplasty or, as in most cases, improve the quality of life. In brief, elective surgery is ‘A planned, non-emergency surgical procedure.’ Elective surgeries dropped by over half According to Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund, ‘there has been a 60% reduction in hospital authorisation requests compared to 2019. A study release in March predicted that an estimated 28.4 million elective surgeries worldwide, would be cancelled during the 12 weeks of peak disruption due to the global pandemic. This has been a similar experience to other industry role players and is predominantly due to a combination of member fears related to Covid-19, lockdown and provider caution.’ Surgeries delayed not cancelled The postponement of surgeries was done to prevent patients taking up hospital beds and to avoid unnecessarily exposure to the virus – a strategy that worked well to flatten the curve. Surgeries were delayed based on provider discretion and subsequent patient engagement. Callakoppen says, ‘Providers are best placed to make these clinical decisions in the interests of their patients. If the procedures were emergencies or urgently required to enable member quality of life, those would have proceeded.’ The public sector too experienced backlogs in terms of elective surgeries. Examples are procedures including but not limited to, cataracts, orthopaedic surgeries, scopes, caesarean sections, tonsillectomies and adenoidectomies. BHF cautioned funders In July, The Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF) and its members in the healthcare funding space requested members of medical schemes to proceed with caution in scheduling elective surgical procedures. Dr Rajesh Patel, Head of Benefit and Risk at the BHF, said, ‘While the relaxation of the lockdown restrictions is good news for people, the country and the economy at large, we are still in the eye of the storm.’ The way forward? ‘As we move toward Level one, elective surgeries are almost back to normal,’ says Callakoppen. ‘It’s time to address the backlog of surgeries not considered emergency during lockdown. These include slow-growing cancers, orthopaedic and spine surgeries, airway surgeries, surgeries for non-cancerous tumours as well heart surgeries. We caution against a rush of elective surgeries though. Any surgery has an impact on the immune system which means the patient has a greater risk of contracting Covid-19 and developing complications from it. ‘It must further be noted that in some instances surgery is often recommended by specialists as one of the key courses of action. But we have noted that managed care protocols, in many instances, improve clinical outcomes with lower risk to the patient. One such example of this is spinal surgery, which is often unsuccessful. From a Bonitas perspective, we have noted that in the back and neck programme which enforces functional rehabilitation has been far more effective for our members. In addition, the risk to the member is significantly lower.’ Bonitas recommends the following is taken into account: That elective surgeries should only be resumed in instances where not having the procedure will severely impact the members’ health and quality of life That the current state of a patient’s healthcare is assessed – individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma HIV/AIDS and hypertension, are at high-risk of developing Covid-19 complications The patient’s age is taken into consideration (older individuals are identified as one of the most vulnerable groups) The impact of waiting on the patient’s healthcare outcomes (for example, is it essential that the surgery takes place now or can it safely be deferred for a few months) Alternative care protocols – in some cases surgery, which should be a last resort, is prescribed without considering other treatment protocols such as rehabilitation. The most common examples of this include back and spine procedures, elective c-sections as well hip and knee replacements The use of day hospitals and clinics, where possible, to limit the possible chance of infection We may have flattened the curve but we are by no means out of the woods. Current Covid-19 cases in South Africa prove that. What is happening in hospitals? ‘Surgeries are being resumed responsibly with due collaboration and consideration exercised between the surgeon, the patient and hospital staff,’ says Callakoppen. Where there are capacity constraints, surgeries will be classified in terms of priority at the various hospitals. Pre-operative screening will continue. Facilities will continue to utilise separate zones for Covid-19 positive patients, Persons Under Investigation (PUI) and those for whom the status is unknown at the point of admission. Surgeries will be carefully planned and scheduled. Specialist visits on the up ‘Consultations are starting to increase once again but providers in general are likely to remain prudent. However we urge people who have not had their necessary annual check-ups, particularly our high risk members, to consult with their doctors. There may be members who have put these consultations on hold and are now more comfortable to visit a specialist. But care coordination

September 11, 2020

Smart study hacks for the exams

Examinations can be nerve-racking and stressful. And while a little stress can sometimes serve as a strong motivator, too much can affect your child’s ability to learn and perform during exams. One way to minimise – or at least manage – stress is to be prepared. While nothing replaces hard work, some techniques can increase efficiency, boost productivity and improve concentration. While not every method will work for your child, it’s worth some trial and error to find the ones that do. First, cover the basics Plan: Develop a timetable and study routine tailored to your child’s grade, learning style and peak learning time. Eat: Maintain proper nutrition by feeding your child healthy, nutritious meals and snacks. The brain needs food to function. Sleep: Make sure your child gets plenty of rest while preparing for exams. Sleep affects cognitive function – it improves the ability to think clearly and logically and assimilates the information learned during the day. Move: Science says that just 20 minutes of exercise can boost brainpower. Whether riding a bike or walking around the block, exercise will increase your child’s energy levels and reduce the effects of stress. Relax: It may sound counterintuitive, but all work and no play is a recipe for disaster. So, allow your child to relax and rejuvenate by watching a movie, listening to music, or playing a sport. Also read: Cool ways to beat summer boredom Tried and tested Practice, practice, practice: One secret weapon when preparing for upcoming exams is working through past papers. Practising sample answers to past exam questions can help train your child’s brain to retrieve information. It also helps pinpoint weak areas. In addition, it shows what to expect in terms of the format/wording of questions, so your child won’t get confused or tripped up during the actual exam. Short sessions for the win: Taking a short break after 45 – 50 minutes of study helps the brain absorb more information while maintaining motivation and focus. Research suggests that for intense memorisation sessions – such as trying to learn names, dates and events, a foreign language or math formulae – sessions should be no longer than 20 – 30 minutes. Make use of memory aids: Let your child use mind maps to connect ideas, draw diagrams to visualise information, create flashcards to memorise key concepts, definitions, quotes and formulas, or try mnemonic devices – a song, rhyme, sentence or phrase – to help remember and recall material. Whichever aid your child chooses, make it simple, logical and colourful – colour helps heighten attention. Something slightly different Speak up: If your child is struggling to grasp something, let them say it out loud instead of simply reading through it. You will be surprised how much more they retain when they have said it out loud. Teach: The best way to test if your child really understands something is to ask them to try to teach it to someone else. This is a particularly good way to discover if they have a basic grasp of the concepts. If there’s no-one around, let your child teach a class of stuffed animals! Listen to music: Listening to certain types of music while studying can enhance productivity, motivation and focus levels. Take note, though, that music should never be counterproductive or distracting. Chew on it: Scientists aren’t exactly sure why, but the act of chewing gum is a brain booster. Chewing gum raises alertness and attention, but only for periods of around 20 minutes – so employ this technique when your child is studying particularly tricky or difficult concepts. What not to do Don’t let your child study similar subjects one after another: Sandwiching History or Geography in between Maths and Science will help the brain absorb all three subjects much better. Don’t let your child stay up all night before an exam: Make sure your child gets adequate rest the night before an exam. Don’t let children spend all their time making elaborate study notes: The more time they spend making mini works of art, the less time they have to study. Don’t let them leave studying until the last minute: Last-minute cramming is generally not the best way to approach an exam. Don’t let your child freak out: Do whatever you can to help your child stay calm. If their stress levels spiral out of control, the brain will stop functioning. Also read: Helpful tips for managing your child’s academic anxiety Finally, as your child prepares for upcoming tests or exams, remember the words of Thomas Edison: “There is no substitute for hard work”. By Danielle Barfoot

September 11, 2020

Tips to get your ingredients to last longer

It is important to try and use all the food you buy and avoid wasting it. If you do not or cannot use what you have bought you are just throwing your hard-earned money away! So, without any ado, let us get straight into it! I have found a lot of these tips while doing “money saving” research on various web pages. Some of them I myself have been using for quite a while others I have “saved” to hopefully use in the future. If you have any tips you use which are not listed, please share with the rest of us TWO GENERAL RULE OF THUMB TIPS TO LIVE BY: Use the “first in, first out” rule – What this means is keep your older foods in the front and move the newer foods behind. Place your fresh fruits and veggies in the easiest-to-grab spot in your fridge, along with milk and other dairy products with the soonest expiration dates. Arrange your canned goods, pasta and other pantry items so that those with the soonest “use by” or “sell by” dates are in the front. Keep track of the “use by” dates of your meat and dairy products and think about freezing or cooking to make them last longer if you find they are getting close to that date. The good news is that uncooked meat can be stored in the freezer for a fairly long period of time of four to 12 months, while cooked meat for two to three months. Milk, cheese and other dairy also freeze well. Eat your fresh ingredients first – Any fresh fruit and veggies you buy should be eaten first. Also, storing your fruit and veggies properly will also extend their lifespan so pay close attention to how you store things. Another thing to remember is just because something starts to look wilted or mushy it does not mean it should be thrown away. Freezing or cooking produce can make it last longer. Now onto the more specific information with regards to storing foods so they last longer. Line the veggie drawer in your fridge with paper towel Lining the veggie drawer with paper towel absorbs the excess moisture which would make your produce wilt therefore making your veggies last longer. An added bonus is that it also keeps your fridge cleaner! Don’t keep your tomatoes in the fridge Ok so call me ignorant but I have always kept my tomatoes in the fridge, so this tip was especially useful for me. The cold of the fridge kills their flavour and their juicy texture. While on the subject of veggies in the fridge, other veggies that shouldn’t live in the fridge include potatoes and onions, although they should be stored in a cool dark place away from any sunlight. Don’t wash your produce before you put it in the fridge. This tip sounds very strange since I always thought you should wash all your fresh produce when you get home, but when you think about it, it does make sense. Most produce should not be rinsed before it goes in the fridge because it will deteriorate sooner if it is damp, just remember you need to rinse it before you eat it later. Put an apple in your bag of potatoes but keep them away from other fruits and veggies I just hate it when I go to grab some potatoes to make mash and they are sprouting…so gross. A great way to keep them lasting longer is to add an apple into the potato bag. Apples produce ethylene gas, which keeps potatoes fresher and firmer. But for that exact reason you need to keep apples away from other fruits and veggies and that includes keeping them out of your fruit bowls otherwise the ethylene gas will make everything go from yummy to yucky much quicker. Don’t keep your milk in the fridge door Keeping your milk in the fridge door is bad news for its shelf life because it is too far away from the cooling element and also the temperature changes every time you open and close the fridge door. Instead, keep it on an inside shelf. Eggs belong on the shelf of your fridge, not in the door either I have never kept my eggs in the fridge door but just in case you do here is a tip for you. Eggs do not like fluctuating temperatures so they should be stored in the back of your fridge on a shelf, where the temperature is most consistent. Brush avocado halves with lemon juice or olive oil Do you find you cannot eat a whole avocado, but you also don’t want to waste the other half so you end up trying to give it away to someone else? Now all you need to do is brush the avocado half with lemon juice or olive oil and you can have it later. The citric acid in lemons helps keep a half-cut avocado from browning. Olive oil has the same effect—it keeps the avocado protected from oxidation from the air. Now you can keep the whole avo for yourself Wash your berries in vinegar I haven’t tried this one as I am not a “berry person”. I know from chatting with friends and family that berries are very expensive so you really want to try and keep them fresh for as long as possible so you don’t end up throwing any of them away. You can extend their “berry life” by giving them a bath in 1 cup of vinegar and 3 cups of water before you put them in the fridge – this kills all the mold and bacteria that turn them fuzzy. You must dry them thoroughly before storing them, so don’t forget. Put your onions in tights/pantyhose This tip brings back some childhood memories for me. I can remember seeing pantyhose filled with onions in my granny’s kitchen when I was young. I never knew the reason was to keep them fresher back in those

September 11, 2020

Transitioning your Winter makeup look to Spring

Now that Spring is upon us, our wardrobe choices are getting lighter for the warmer weather and our makeup should be too. Now is the time to pack away the darker colours & start playing around with some brighter colours. Switching up your makeup routine ensures that things are kept fresh and on point. I think that this year is going to be all about natural beauty with pops of colour here and there. I don’t know about you, but ever since COVID-19 hit, I find myself gravitating more towards wearing a lighter application of makeup and letting my natural beauty stand out. Here are some of my tips for a smooth transition from winter makeup to spring: Lots of water – warmer days mean that your skin will need more water for hydration. Do not skip the sunblock. This goes without saying. Harmful UV & UBV rays can lead to pigmentation and premature ageing of the skin. Prep & prime – Now that the days are going to be warmer, we need our makeup to last all day. Incorporating a primer into your makeup routine not only fills in any fine lines & wrinkles, but also helps with the staying power of your makeup. My favourite primer to use now is the CATRICE 10 in 1 primer. It does everything and has an SPF in it for that added benefit. Change up your foundation – Warmer, hotter days means more time in the sun and with more time in the sun your skin also starts to warm up. Changing up your foundation by a shade or 2 darker is a must or alternatively you can bronze up your face with a matt bronzer. For a lighter foundation coverage, I love mixing a little moisturizer in with my foundation. Glow up – I love adding lots of highlighter to my makeup routine in Spring. This gives my skin an amazing healthy glow. Highlight your cheekbones, down the bridge of your nose, cupids bow, under the brow bone and inner tear duct. For some added glow, I love to highlight my collar bones and shoulders as well. I use the CATRICE Luminance highlighter palette. Bronze me up – add some warmth to the face for a Sunkissed finish. I add bronzer on my forehead, between my cheekbones and jawline, under the jawline and down the sides of my nose. This also helps to chisel and carve out the face. Swap out the lipsticks & opt for gloss. Lip gloss has a light texture and is perfect for lighter Spring days. Adorn the spring nails colours – this is my favourite thing to change up in Spring. I love the brighter nail colours like yellow, mint, pink, baby blues and lilac. The brighter the nail colour, the better. I for one cannot wait to be laying out in the sun and spending lots of time with the kids by the pool. Decluttering your home: With changing up your makeup routine, I think there is also a need to spring clean and declutter your home and let go of things you do not necessarily need. When I do this, it makes me feel so much lighter. Getting rid of unnecessary baggage and freeing up space is so important for my mental & emotional wellbeing. Having kids, we tend to hoard so many toys, clothes, books, and school supplies. I can’t tell you the amount of time that gets spent trying to find things. By decluttering I know exactly where things are. Everything has a place and life is so much calmer. Here are my tips to a seamless decluttering & organising process: Make a list of the areas you want to declutter and organise. E.g. Pantry, closet, kids toys etc. Invest in a label machine. This way everything can be labelled, and it saves time opening cupboards and containers to see what exactly is inside. Purchase storage containers and boxes. In the long run, it’s a saving and it looks better and neater than having things kept in black bags and boxes. This can be done over time, so that it doesn’t become an expensive process. When decluttering and organising make different piles. A pile to giveaway, a pile to throw away, a storage pile and a keep pile. For my pantry, I have slowly started the conversion to plastic containers and have everything labelled. A container for flour, sugar, pasta, cereal etc. It has made my life so much easier as I have no half-opened bags lying everywhere clipped with pegs. I have bought baskets for sweets, chips, and biscuits so that everything is packed neatly. For the closet, I like to have it repacked for every season. With Spring/Summer approaching, I like to pack winter coats etc that take up space in big plastic containers and throw in some moth & fragrance balls to keep it fresh then pack it away in the garage and have it labelled so if ever I need to look for something I know exactly where it is. In my closet with the items that do remain, I colour coordinate and pack similar items together. For the kids, I only keep the items that the kids play with now and pack everything else away in storage baskets. I get rid of broken toys and donate what they have outgrown. Whether you tackle this as part of a downsizing effort or simply to simplify your life, decluttering and organising an entire home is a big job. The best way to tackle it is in stages, room by room or cupboard by cupboard. Goodluck!

September 11, 2020

Motivating your primary or high school student – 5 tips to navigate the minefield

Concerned about your child’s lack of motivation when it comes to their schoolwork? Perhaps you’ve spent many a minute pondering how you can get your child to put as much effort into learning as they do into texting on their phones. You’re not alone. We’d venture a guess that there were even a few cavemothers back in the day who were probably just as concerned with their teen’s lack of motivation and seemingly rebellious attitude. Now here’s the thing that most articles like this one don’t tell you – there’s no silver bullet or magical motivation potion. Nothing you do or say will result in your child going to sleep a TikTok consuming zombie-bot one evening and waking up an industrious little Edison the next. You cannot force a child to be motivated – they have to realize the importance of learning themselves. However, there are some steps that you can take to help your child discover –or rediscover – his or her motivational mojo. 1: Instill discipline and accountability in your child There’s a very true quote – probably dreamt up by some self-help yogi on the internet, bless their wise soul – “You will never always be motivated, so you must learn to be disciplined”. Discipline is what sets people apart. A naturally athletic person might have raw talent, but if they don’t have the discipline to get up and train at the crack of dawn, all that raw talent won’t book them a spot at the Olympics. But, if your child follows the pattern of ‘panic, breakdown, cram, cry, cram-some-more’ every night before a big test, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they are lazy or undisciplined. Perhaps he or she has trouble managing their time. This is where you can help. By creating a structured learning environment, developing a regular schedule and allowing sufficient time to prepare, you can help your child manage his or her time better. As with all seemingly mundane things in life – such as parking within the lines or making your coffee just the way you like it – time management is a skill learnt through trial and error, and by repeating it every day until you become an expert. Importantly, don’t over compensate for your child’s demotivated attitude by doing their work for them. This will only end up compounding the problem, because what you are actually telling them is that it’s okay not to hold up their end of a bargain, someone will always come to bail them out. Motivated kids are also accountable kids, who accept their responsibilities and plan accordingly. 2: Be kind to your child, and to yourself Your child’s lack of motivation is not necessarily a reflection on you as a parent. Positively reinforce development and when they make mistakes – when, not if – don’t lie awake obsessing about the future and how you are going to take care of your son when he’s 40 and still lives in your basement with just a mini fridge and video game console. Mistakes are par for the course; fall down ten times and get up eleven times – so cliché, but true. In a culture that is obsessed with perfection, we often do not teach our children that it’s okay to make mistakes. If Junior has been steadily putting in more work and improving his grades only to fail the next test, don’t act like it’s the end of the world, threaten to put a hit out on the teacher or tell your child that his brain is the size of a pea. Identify the root cause of the problem, and put strategies in place to prevent a similar scenario in the future. Your child will learn how to handle crisis and disappointment by witnessing your own response to it. Lead by example. 3: Focus on development, not performance Developing a motivated student takes time. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Don’t expect them to magically start burning the midnight oil and getting straight A’s just because they started attending a tutor session two weeks ago. Set realistic goals and positively reinforce improvements in behaviour or outcome, even if it’s small or slow. Perhaps more importantly, don’t force your own expectations on your child. Even if you secretly dream that your child will become an astronaut and be the first human to set foot on Mars, their strengths and academic interests might not align with that vision. And that’s okay. If they do well in another subject that you might regard as less important, praise them for that, because it might be important to them. 4: Encourage honest conversation Oftentimes students become demotivated because they feel overwhelmed or stuck, and oftentimes these factors can be remedied. But you won’t know how to help your child, unless they talk to you about the problem. You cannot force your child to share his or her feelings, and the more you push, the more likely you are to receive a serious of grunts and sighs as a reply. However, you can let them know that you are there to talk, when they feel ready. When they do open up to you, validate your child’s feelings, even if you don’t agree with them on something. So for example, if Junior says “Mom, I hate mathematics, It just doesn’t make sense!”, don’t say something like “Nonsense sweetie, you were fine with math last year.” Listen to your child. Really listen. Let them know that their opinion matters and don’t put them down. 5: Get outside help If your child is demotivated because he or she is struggling with a particular subject or subjects, consider getting outside help, such as a tutor. If this is not financially viable, maybe reach out to a university student in the family, or a subject-savvy aunt or uncle, or try to come to an agreement with a reputable tutoring company to let your child be instructed at a reduced rate. Make a plan. Do not stick

September 11, 2020

Making the most of time: To save for education

If you’re planning to save for your child’s tertiary studies, doing so early is the best way to do it. The exciting news of welcoming a child into the world changes your life, and time can go by so quickly. Planning for tertiary education costs early, will make all the difference to affording the best education and opportunities available. You generally have at least 18 years to save towards university costs as a new parent. So, let’s assume for a 4-year bachelor’s degree, you’ll need as much as R85 000 per year for university tuition alone. This added up seems staggering, but will be more manageable to achieve over time, thanks to compound interest (provided you start saving early). It is important to personalise your goals to know where you are going. One way is to define which university you are most likely to send your child to so that you can better quantify your savings goal. It might be difficult to picture it now, but this will allow you to more accurately ensure that your level of monthly savings matches the future costs of tertiary studies, to avoid a shortfall. It is important to note there is a large disparity between university costs in different provinces. The cost of residence or accommodation should you want your child to attend a university out of town should also be defined as this can be more than double the cost of tuition, which changes the savings requirement dramatically. There are a few key savings vehicles to consider using for these savings: 1. Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA).This has the benefit of allowing you to save up to R36 000 per tax year (capped at R500 000 over your lifetime) without any taxation on the growth of the investment. So this mean you’ll pay no tax on interest, dividends or capital gains. This should be in your name and not your child’s, as you could be removing their right to have their own TFSA later in life, due to the contribution maximum limits. 2. Discretionary unit trust or ETF (Exchange traded fund)This is similar to a TFSA, but without the tax benefits. This should be considered if you are already using a TFSA in your personal portfolio. An ETF is an alternative to a unit trust fund, and usually tracks an index. 3. Endowment / Sinking fund policy.This should only be considered if you are already using a TFSA in your personal portfolio and your marginal tax rate is above 30%. As it is estimated that education inflation runs at around 9% per year, it is imperative to invest your money in the selected vehicle above in a high-growth portfolio that will target long-term capital growth at inflation plus 5% to 7% per year. This type of mandate should invest the majority of your savings in local or offshore shares. As you will be investing monthly, you gain the benefit of rand cost averaging (averaging your entry into volatile stock markets), which will smooth your return over time. As always this advice is assumptive and generic and you should always work with a Certified Financial Planner® to tailor a financial plan to your unique circumstances, and consider the appropriate investment mandate and tax structure that may impact you. Alexi Coutsoudis, CFP at PSG Wealth Umhlanga Ridge

September 10, 2020

Field trips turn virtual

It is undeniable that COVID-19 has changed life as we know it. But as every industry around the world adapts to the ‘new normal’, some innovative and engaging options are emerging for education. One such innovation is the virtual field trip. Virtual field trips are an exciting way to visit places around the world, at any time, without leaving the comfort of the couch or classroom. It creates an interactive, stimulating, and enriching learning experience for learners by enabling them to learn about history, discover science, appreciate art, and even explore space using technology. Also read: Skill up during lockdown: life skills to teach your kids Benefits of virtual field trips Brings learning to life: Learners may forget an article they read about space, but they are less likely to forget watching interviews with astronauts, touring the International Space Station, or roaming the surface of Mars. Broadens horizons: Virtual field trips enable learners to explore places and ‘meet’ people that they might not have been able to visit or meet otherwise. Unlike traditional field trips, it exposes them to places outside their geographic region. An unlimited resource: Distance, time, and money are irrelevant as learners can virtually visit anywhere and can instantly access current, applicable, and detailed information related to their ‘trip’. Interactive experience: By offering a bird’s-eye view or a 360-degree rotation of a location, virtual field trips create a highly interactive experience that gives learners the freedom to discover and learn at their own pace. Inclusive: Virtual field trips cater to all learning styles – while audio-visuals and narratives guide auditory and visual learners, kinaesthetic learners can benefit from manipulating and moving objects by clicking on them. Where to go Keen to plan your first virtual field trip? Several museums, zoos, historical sites and natural wonders around the world offer virtual tours – many even include related information and educational projects and activities. Here are a few suggestions: San Diego Zoo: The zoo’s website contains videos, activities, and games, plus they have live cameras on 11 different animals. Children can check in on the elephants and giraffes or take a peek at what the penguins and koalas are up to. Fun fact:The San Diego Zoo houses over 3 700 animals of more than 650 species, and was a pioneer in the concept of open-air, cageless exhibits that recreate natural animal habitats. It is one of the few zoos in the world that houses and successfully breeds the giant panda. African safari: WildEarth offers live ranger-hosted sunrise and sunset safaris from Djuma Private Game Reserve in The Sabi Sands, and Beyond Ngala Private Game Reserve close to the Kruger National Park. Fun fact: You can send in questions, which the guides will answer live during the safari. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History: If learners are curious about fossils, ancient mammals, dinosaurs, or just about anything else, then let them (virtually) step inside the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, which boasts more than 500 million specimens of plants, animals, fossils, minerals, rocks, meteorites, and human cultural artefacts. Fun fact:The museumfeatures a collection of 46 complete dinosaur specimens, including complete skeletons of a T-Rex, a Megacerops and a Triceratops. The Louvre: Children can immerse themselves in art and history at what is arguably the most famous museum in the world – no plane ticket to Paris or passport required! Fun fact:The Louvre is the biggest museum in the world. If you were to spend 30 seconds on each piece of art in the Louvre, it would take 100 consecutive days to get through them all – without sleep, breaks, or mealtimes. The Great Wall of China: China’s most famous attraction is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It boasts a history of over 2 000 years, making it one of the most impressive ancient structures on the planet. Fun fact:The Great Wall of China is the longest manmade structure in the world, with a total length of approximately 21 196 km. Mars: Learners can explore the surface of the planet with NASA’s camera on Mars. During the trip, learners will find out how the rover got to Mars, and they will learn about the rover itself and how it walks across the planet’s surface. Fun fact:Mars, also known as the Red Planet, is the fourth planet from the sun and is named after the Roman God of War. The Great Barrier Reef: This engaging and in-depth interactive journey, narrated by Sir David Attenborough, will let learners explore one of the greatest wonders of the natural world. Fun fact: The Great Barrier Reef makes up 2 300 km of Australia’s coastline and is home to 1 500 species of fish, 600 coral species, and 30 different whale and dolphin species. Also read: Plastic-free July: get rid of the big four Ancient Egypt: You don’t need a time machine to discover Ancient Egypt! This virtual field trip enables learners to explore the magnificent structures of Ancient Egypt, including pyramids, sphinxes, and temples. Fun fact:The Great Pyramid of Giza, also known as the Pyramid of Khufu, it is the oldest of the Ancient Wonders of the World and the last one still mostly intact. It was the tallest manmade structure in the world for more than 3 800 years. Focus on nature and conservation For virtual field trips specifically focused on nature and conservation, check out Nature Lab. It offers several virtual excursions that allow learners to do everything from exploring a coastal rainforest while in a canoe to unlocking the secrets of coral reefs. Each of Nature Lab’s virtual field trips contains a video, teacher guide, and educational activities. The site is also a fantastic resource for any lessons relating to nature, conservation, and the environment. By Danielle Barfoot

September 10, 2020

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viewed_cookie_policy	11 months	The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.

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

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