Advice from the experts
My Breastpump

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
Parenting Hub

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
Wingu Academy

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
RediscoverDairy

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
Mattel

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
Mindscape Education

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
Parenting Hub

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
Parenting Hub

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
Parenting Hub

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
Vital Baby

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
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

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
Impaq

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
Wendy Offer Designs

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
Cosmetix

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
Wingu Academy

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
Parenting Hub

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
Impaq

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
Playstation by Rush

Why play?

Research has shown that active bodies and active minds translate into happy children. It’s also important to limit screen time and technology and get children to interact with others, play and exercise.   This is how active play helps: It develops strong muscles and bones It develops gross motor control It controls weight It helps them sleep better It gives them more confidence and a better outlook on life It makes them more mentally alert and improves their likelihood of being academically motivated and successful. It lowers their chances of developing type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases. Play is our brain’s favourite way of learning Parents record a worrying obsession that children have with technology, including cell phones, tablets, television and gaming. The pandemic lockdown didn’t help either and, after five months of restricted movement, it’s time for kids to get active and play again. Perfect timing for Playstation by Rush to open its 600m2  interactive, indoor playpark for children aged 2 to 13.   It’s a safe space where ‘kids can be kids’ and parents can take some much needed time out! Play is so important for young children, it not only teaches them social skills but also promotes physical activity. Playstation is designed to provide multisensory experiences as children play and have fun. It is proudly tech-free and encourages active play. This is critical for developmental skills, including visual and tactile stimulation, agility, balance, hand-eye coordination, upper and lower body strength and cognitive thinking through problem solving. In addition, a sedentary lifestyle (whether voluntary or not) also increases the risk of obesity in children. South African statistics show an alarming number of children are overweight or obese. Very good reasons to get children moving and exercising, particularly in the fun form of play.  The earlier the better.  Although it’s a truism that, ‘We are never more fully alive, more completely ourselves or more deeply engrossed in anything than when we are playing,’ when there is so much technology around us, we sometimes forget to play.  Damon Walmsley, general manager and father of twins, says, ‘We know that play time is essential for our kids, especially after the long lockdown and limited activity.  The equipment is similar to what we had when we were young – sort of old school cool.   ‘Some of the activities on offer at Playstation include an adventure maze with swing bridges and hidden areas to explore, a 4 metre rock climbing wall that will test children’s strength and co-ordination, 6 metre high slides, a bike pump track and the little kid’s city. What we think is a winner with parents is the fact that we have highly trained staff who will look after the kids. This means parents can take a breather, catch up on work, watch TV or sit in the restaurant and have breakfast lunch or supper knowing their children are safe, playing and getting all the benefits derived from active play.’  The halaal-friendly, 50-seater restaurant offers an à la carte menu plus daily specials and is open in the evenings for dinner.  ‘The Covid-19 lockdown rules mean we are limiting access and the number of children playing, so booking is essential,’ says Walmsley. He also explains that strict protocols are in place to ensure the health and safety of visitors and staff.  This includes the taking of temperatures, sanitising and a daily deep clean of the playpark. Pricing varies for peak and off peak visits and are charged per hour of play.  Monthly and annual memberships are available and there are discounts offered if a family has a meal in the restaurant.  You’ll find Playstation by Rush at 10 Honeywell Road, Kirstenhof – turn at the Spotty Dog landmark. The playpark is open from 10am to 6pm, Monday to Wednesday, 9am to 9pm Thursday to Saturday and from 9am to 6pm on Sundays Playstation by Rush is brought to you by the team who successfully manage the Rush Indoor Trampoline Parks.   For more information go to: www.playstation.rushsa.co.za

September 9, 2020
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

Physical touch & newborns – why is this so important

The birth of your baby is a beautiful and special moment in both of your lives. You may be wondering about your newborn’s senses, while they are born with all necessary senses, some are less precise than others and develop as your baby grows. Physical touch is an important aspect of your child’s growth, coming from your womb, where they are tightly cocooned in your womb. Skin to skin contact offers benefits to both you and your baby, and touch is one of the senses that can help comfort your baby, making them feel more secure and helping strengthen the bond between the two of you. Why is touch important? Touch enables your baby to learn more about the world, bond with their mother and learn communication skills, as touch and body language will be the first way that you can ‘speak’ to one another. Breastfeeding is an important part of this, as your baby then spends time in her mother’s arms. The benefits of touch goes beyond the physical. Contact between mom and baby has been shown to lower cortisol levels, which in turn benefits the functioning of the immune system.  Children that are deprived of touch can be more aggressive with other conduct disorder problems. What is swaddling? Coming from a tightly packed womb, you’ll find that your baby is comforted by touch and close cuddles. Swaddling your baby in a blanket is also another technique that you can use on young babies to help them feel more secure, as it stops them from upsetting themselves from their own startle reflex. It’s important that your newborn finds their new world a comfortable and soothing place. Swaddling is an old technique, and beyond helping your little one feel safe and secure, your baby is likely to sleep better and will be kept nice and cosy in their blanket. If you decide to swaddle your baby it’s best to do so from birth, as opposed to introducing it when they are older as this can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Using the proper techniques when swaddling is also important, as incorrect wrapping can lead to issues.

September 8, 2020
Vital Baby

Vital Baby: What to look for in a breast pad

For moms who have decided to breastfeed, breast pads are a real God-send. While they may not be necessary in the first few days after baby’s birth, they will play an important role when your milk comes in. Leaking is very common; a woman’s breasts may leak when she hears a baby cry, or when baby’s next feeding time approaches. It is also common and normal for one of your breasts to leak milk while you are busy feeding with the other. This is because your “let down” reflex happens in both breasts at the same time. It takes some time for breast milk to become regulated, so you can expect to use breast pads for the first few months after giving birth. What are breast pads? Breast pads, also known as nursing pads, are placed inside your bra, and serve the purpose of absorbing excess milk that may leak between feeds. They prevent milk from staining your clothing. There are various shapes and sizes available, and some are reuseable, whilst others are disposable. No matter what type you choose, the most important factor to consider is comfort. Your breast pad should be contoured to fit snugly against your body. A flat circular breast pad will bunch up in your bra. Breast pads should be soft and absorbent, and allow your skin to breathe. It’s important not to trap moisture around the nipple, as this can lead to irritation or even yeast infections. As such, breast pads should be changed regularly.  vital baby® NURTURE™ ultra comfort breast pads help keep you dry by absorbing breast milk that may leak between feeds.  They have self-adhesive tabs to secure each breast pad discreetly onto the inside of your bra, preventing embarrassing leaks from showing through your clothing. We’re sure you’ll agree, vital baby® NURTURE™ ultra comfort breast pads are one of the best breast pads available to mums. The vital baby® NURTURE™ ultra comfort breast pads are shaped to provide comfort and absorbency, locking in wetness away from your nipple, helping to avoid irritation and infection. The vital baby® NURTURE™ ultra comfort breast pads have: • An absorbent layer to help keep you dry and comfortable day and night. • Double sticky tabs for security and to help prevent slipping. • A crinkle-free 3D contour for a natural comfortable fit. • Soft and breathable fabric with a backing that’s waterproofed to help wick moisture away from the skin. • Individually packaged for hygiene. For hygiene and comfort, we recommend that breast pads are replaced regularly. RSP: R103.02 (56pk) / R23.55 (6pk) 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 7, 2020
Mindscape Education

Time management and timetables – how much is enough?

In this article, Clair a homeschooling parent, discusses time management and timetables and how to ensure your child is getting the most out of homeschooling while being able to recognise when your child has reached their limit for the day. I remember being so afraid.  Afraid for my child.  Afraid about what I was teaching her but importantly, about what I was not teaching her.  My initial reaction to this was simply to do more.  Start earlier, finish later.  Shorter breaks.  More structure.  Less flexibility.  Well, it goes without saying that for two or three weeks, our home wasn’t a very happy one.    With no assembly, no register class, no chapel, no physical education classes, so much time is freed up for you and your child.   However, when starting out on this journey, you simply have no way of knowing whether you are spending enough time on each subject.  Luckily, at the beginning of each CAPS teacher’s guide, the Department has set outguidelines for each subject in each phase, broken down by Grade.  Whilst not prescriptive, these give an outline as to how you could spend your school time. Instructional hours vary from 23 in the Foundation phase to about 27 hours in the Senior Phase and high school.  You can find out more by clicking on the link below: https://www.education.gov.za/Portals/0/CD/National%20Curriculum%20Statements%20and%20Vocational/CAPS%20IP%20%20HOME%20ENGLISH%20GR%204-6%20%20WEB.pdf?ver=2015-01-27-160412-720 We used to start the day with Maths, because my daughter was at her best then, so we would begin with the subject she struggled with the most and would take it from there.  I cannot stress enough how important it is to let your child work at their own pace.  If you end up doing only English for the day, that’s fine, just be sure to find a bit of balance over the following days by doing something else.   There are also many opportunities over the course of day for educating – many of which fall outside of “school hours”.  It takes time to fall into a rhythm, to find your own groove.  Try not to be too hard on yourself for not sticking to a rigid schedule.  You, and your child, might well be all the happier for it.  A happy child is a more productive learner, which makes for a happier parent, and that’s a win in anybody’s book. 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 7, 2020
LEGO South Africa

The LEGO Group launches new initiative to help parents talk to their kids about online safety and digital citizenship

The LEGO Group has recently launched Small Builds for Big Conversations, a series of creative challenges which offer parents and their kids an enjoyable, guided method to engage in conversations about being a good digital citizen and the importance of online safety. According to Kaspersky, parents spend just 46 minutes1 talking to their children about online risks throughout their entire childhood as they find it difficult to express the risks in a relatable way. Small Builds for Big Conversations has been created to address such barriers by giving parents simple, fun ways to talk to children aged six to 10 about digital safety and wellbeing while they play. The ‘Build & Talk’ challenges are based around characters built from LEGO bricks, who represent both the positive and negative aspects of life online. Parents and children are encouraged to build similar characters with LEGO bricks they have at home and use play and conversation prompts to talk about digital wellbeing, safety and potential dangers. During the pandemic, more than 290 million2 children globally were left learning from home when schools closed. As a result, online usage skyrocketed with estimates showing that screen time will have quadrupled3 for many kids by September, making it more urgent and important than ever that young children understand how to stay safe online. Without school, the onus is falling on busy parents to have important conversations around the benefits and risks of going online. Anna Rafferty, Vice President Digital Consumer Engagement, said: “As a parent I know it’s not always easy to talk to your children about being a good digital citizen in a way they understand, as they are often influenced by peer pressure and exciting digital experiences. We have a long history of creating safe digital play experiences for kids, so we wanted to give parents the confidence to connect with their children on this important topic.” “We understand the power of learning through play, which is why we’ve made the conversations playful,” added Rafferty. “LEGO bricks are great for sparking imagination and storytelling, so building characters while talking will make the experience more memorable and enjoyable for parents and kids. Today’s young children will live their lives online and many have their first digital experience before their first birthday4. Being a good digital citizen is critical for their development.” The builds are available in three themed activity packs that include two character categories: ‘The Online Explorers,’ like ‘The Giggler’ who loves to watch and make online videos, and The ‘Watch-Outs,’ like ‘The Chameleon’ who represents strangers that pretend to be friends. Each activity pack includes inspiration on how to build the characters, as well as talking points and questions to help guide the conversation between parents and their children, helping them have a natural conversation, that leads to learning while they play. The content has been developed in line with UNICEF digital safety guidelines5.  “Spending time with parents and talking openly about experiences on the internet is key to keeping children safe and happy online,” said Andrew Mawson, Chief of Child Rights and Business at UNICEF. “We welcome this timely initiative by the LEGO Group to facilitate these conversations through play.” Building inspirations for all of the characters are available on www.LEGO.com. Each takes around 10 minutes to construct using existing bricks, and their physical features reflect the different aspects of being online. The ‘Build & Talk’ activity packs are available online now for free at: https://www.lego.com/aboutus/buildandtalk

September 4, 2020
Parenting Hub

Supporting the studying child

If having toddlers brings with it spills (of the liquid and scraped knee kind) and frazzled parents; then having children in the house who are studying brings with it a whole new myriad of uncertainties and frustrations. Every young person differs when it comes to attention and dedication to studies, homework and exam preparation. Those of you lucky enough to have had an intrinsically motivated child will identify less than those of us who need to spur our children on. Children appear to fall within a spectrum that starts on the one side with “Needs motivation to get dressed”, graduates to “Will work if there is no other option” and finally peaks at the other end of the spectrum with “Needs to be told not to overdo it.” If, like me, you have sons who are unlikely to be plagued with stress related illnesses perhaps you would benefit from continuing to read… In the run up to studying, you will have established how YOUR child learns. He/she may want to speak out loud or write out copious notes. You and the child (depending on age) might consider finding out whether his/her learning style is auditory, visual or a combination of the two. It is possible that the child learns through “doing” rather than seeing. The method preferred, if used correctly will facilitate successful learning. Try to establish whether your child understands the work and whether extra lessons are required or not.  The most important aspect when it comes to studying is ensuring that there is a suitable environment. This refers to both the physical environment and the atmosphere created for the studying child. Routine needs to be regulated. This includes when meals are served and when family outings are arranged. Often children need little to distract them from the task at hand. Preparation of the environment includes ensuring that all necessary equipment is available too. (Calculators, coloured pens, paper etc.) While, as children get older they will organise this themselves, initially a parent needs to assist. Don’t underestimate how important adequate food and healthy snacks are to the studying child. Insist on a balanced diet which will sustain the child. Low blood sugar will result in reduced concentration and tiredness. More…/2 Depending on the nature of your child, you will approach the studying period with varying degrees of involvement. The aforementioned intrinsically motivated child may need firmness and guidance as to when enough is enough. Avoid allowing children to study into the small hours of the morning and sit the exam in an exhausted state. On the other side of the spectrum of course is the child who needs FIRM encouragement to get going at all. This child might need repeated persuasion to set up a study programme and to get going. A study programme is vital to the success of the exams. This programme must be realistic and give adequate time to each subject. It must be flexible and make allowances for last minute emergencies such as power failures or illness. Such a programme should be set up well in advance, as that in itself brings a sense of control to the situation. This programme must include adequate breaks that allow for the child to return to studying refreshed. A good rule of thumb is to ensure that study breaks take place every 45 minutes for a period of 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Ideally these breaks should involve going outside, playing with the dog or getting a snack. It is not recommended that the child watch television or play a computer game during breaks, as this firstly encourages much lengthier breaks, and secondly may result in the child not feeling as refreshed as when he/she does something more active. Please note that a child sitting behind closed doors for several hours, supposedly studying is not necessarily taking much in. It is vital that the child ENGAGES with the work and then takes regular breaks. It may also be a good idea not to allow “screens” in the study area if you are concerned that your child is not actually actively studying. It is recommended that phones, televisions, gaming consuls etc. be removed from the environment unless it is a study break. (But remember first choice is to take a break in a different environment) Supporting your studying child can be a cause for stress, which is exacerbated if the child also doesn’t enjoy writing exams or studying. Parents are key to the maintenance of a relatively stress free environment. Potentially, there are years ahead of our children that will be filled with exams and tests. If we can engender a positive attitude and a diligence in approach to academic work it will go a long way to cultivating positive and diligent young adults.

September 4, 2020
Missing Children South Africa

Important safety tips for parents

Missing Children South Africa is a registered NPO and PBO that assists the authorities when an individual goes missing in South Africa, for any reason whatsoever. MCSA works closely with the South African Police Service and other government bodies as well as other NGO’s and private initiatives, to assist in the recovery and safe return of any missing person.  Missing Children South Africa first tier is that of an emergency response service and they have a national helpline for incident reports and callers are advised on which immediate steps to take in logging the incident officially so as to ensure efficient and timeous action. Secondly, by activating a vast national social and media network MCSA distributes flyers of missing children, create mass awareness of the individual which maximises the chances of that child being recovered. MCSA’s Emergency Number is 072 647 7464 and is operational 24/7 every day of the week. DO NOT WAIT 24 HOURS BEFORE REPORTING YOUR CHILD AS MISSING! The first 24 hours are crucial, and there is no waiting period to report a person as missing. Teach your children that even people they know can try to harm them, so they should tell you if another family member or family friend is doing something that makes them feel bad or uncomfortable. No one is allowed to ever touch your child’s body.  Know where your child is at all times, whom they’re with and what they’re wearing. Always keep a recent photograph of your child on you, so that the photo will be readily available in case of an emergency. Make an effort to know your child’s friends – know their names, addresses and numbers. Be involved in your child’s life, but don’t force it. Build a trusting relationship and create a home environment where they want to be and bring their friends to. Teach your children their own names and addresses, as well as your name and telephone number. Keep your children close to home and teach them the importance of the BUDDY SYSTEM: never go anywhere alone. Take your children to the nearest police station, hospital and clinic to show them how to find it easily; point out landmarks to prevent them from getting lost. Teach your children never to take the same route to and from places. Plan different routes, walk them with your children, and then decide each day which route they must take. If your child goes missing, you can start looking on the discussed route. Teach your children the ‘BUDDY SYSTEM’; which is always to take a friend with them – don’t go anywhere alone. This way, they can help each other when they are in trouble. Create a family exclusive password – teach your children that when you send a person to pick them up, the person should know the password; otherwise your children should not go with the person as they then know that you have not sent the person to pick them up. Teach your children the rules; what is OK and what is not OK, and teach them to have the confidence to take action if they for any reason feel like someone is trying to take advantage of them. Teach your children not to walk away with anyone other than their parent/s, or the designated person who was arranged to take care of your child. Parents with special needs children – get them bracelets with emergency contact numbers on the bracelet. This also is very helpful with the elderly that suffers from dementia or Alzheimer’s.  Stranger danger still exists even though children and parents need to be cautious about people they know such as family members and family friends. Teach your children never to get into a car with a stranger, for any reason. Parents, teach your children that an adult does not need anything from a child – not to find a puppy, not to buy them an ice-cream – not for anything. If an adult is asking a child for help, or wanting to buy children anything, that’s a warning sign.  Keep the lines of communication open. It’s crucial to talk to your child regularly and openly about what it going on in their lives and at school, so that if there is any change in their behaviour, you will notice it immediately. Allow them to tell you about the things that make them feel scared, uncomfortable or sad. Teach them to know the difference between a good secret (these are fun to keep; like a surprise birthday party) and a bad secret (these feel bad to keep, and makes them scared). Having an open relationship with them will allow them to trust you, and share any problems that they may be experiencing. Do not write your child’s name on his or her personal belongings. And do not attach a name to their backpack, lunch box or water bottle. Your child’s things shouldn’t give strangers access to private information. When addressing a child by their name, an unfamiliar person immediately wins his or her trust, which can lead to all kinds of dangerous manipulation. A much better idea is to write your phone number instead as this will prove helpful if anything gets lost or stolen. We teach our children not to get into cars with strangers, and that’s important. But your child should learn one more rule; if a car pulls up near you or starts to follow you with people inside the car attempting to draw your attention, they should run quickly in the direction opposite to the movement of the vehicle. This will help you buy time to call for help. Tell your child that, when grabbed by a stranger, it is more than ok to behave “badly“; to bite, kick, claw, and try to attract attention at any cost, even if the situation is very scary. Also, your child should keep shouting loudly, ”I don’t know him/her! He/she wants to take me away!” This will often scare off the perpetrator, and also alert passer-by’s, who can then rescue them. Your child should know that he/she is not obliged to talk to strangers. So, if the conversation lasts longer than 5-7 seconds, it’s best to leave and head for a safe location. While the conversation lasts, a child should always stand at a distance from a stranger. If a stranger tries

September 4, 2020
Wingu Academy

International Examination boards from the United Kingdom

Examination boards in the United Kingdom (sometimes called awarding bodies or awarding organisations) are the examination boards responsible for setting and awarding secondary education level qualifications, such as GCSEs, and A Levels qualifications, to students in the United Kingdom. Until the mid-1990s, academic exam boards and vocational accreditors were run very much as separate organisations. In more recent times, this distinction has been removed, with all the term ‘awarding bodies’ now being used. Broadly speaking, the UK has always had two separate school systems: one for England, Wales and Northern Ireland; and one for Scotland. As a result, two separate sets of exam boards have been developed. Here we will focus on the exam boards stemming from the United Kingdom. England, Wales and Northern Ireland England, Wales and Northern Ireland have several exam boards, with schools and colleges able to freely choose between them on a subject-by-subject basis. Currently, there are five exam boards available to state schools: AQA (Assessment and Qualifications Alliance) CCEA (Council for the Curriculum, Examinations & Assessment) OCR (Oxford, Cambridge and RSA Examinations) Pearson, under its Edexcel brand WJEC (Welsh Joint Education Committee), under its WJEC and Eduqas brands Though the exam boards have regional roots within the UK, they now operate across larger areas. The three boards based in England – AQA, OCR and Edexcel – offer all their qualifications across England with a smaller number in Wales (where no ‘homegrown’ qualification is available) and Northern Ireland (where the qualifications meet the regulator’s requirements). The Wales-based WJEC offers qualifications in Wales (mostly under its WJEC brand), England (nearly always under its Eduqas brand) and Northern Ireland (under either brand). Most exam boards offer a range of qualifications, though not all boards offer every qualification in every subject. Schools and colleges have a completely free choice between the boards, and most schools use a mixture of boards for their GCSE qualifications, with a similar mixture existing at A Level. In addition. History Exam boards have been around as long as there have been qualifications offered by schools. The Universities of Oxford and Cambridge each had their own exam board and a joint board they ran together. The qualifications offered were of the boards’ own creation. local board. I will focus here on the boards founded by the University of Oxford and University of Cambridge, and of Pearson Institute since they are the more well known in South Africa.: 1836. Royal charter gave the University of London powers to conduct exams. The University of London Extension Board was founded in 1902 (later becomes Edexcel in 1996) 1857: University of Oxford Delegacy of Local Examinations (founded by the University of Oxford) 1858: University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES, founded by the University of Cambridge) 1873: Oxford and Cambridge Schools Examination Board (founded by the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge) GCE (O Level and A Level) In 1951, the General Certificate of Education (GCE) was introduced. It was split into two stages: Ordinary Level (O Level, taken at 16) and Advanced Level (A Level, taken at 18). CSE In 1965, the Certificate of Secondary Education (CSE) was introduced. It was aimed at the 80% 16-year-old students who did not take O Levels and, until that point, had left school with no qualifications. CSEs were administered on a local basis with local boards offering the qualifications. GCSE To create a more egalitarian system, the O Levels and CSE (but not the A Level) were replaced by the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) in 1986. As O Levels and CSEs had used different exam boards (except in Wales and Northern Ireland), new ‘examining groups’ were created. In England, the four examining groups were consortia of regional GCE and CSE exam boards, while in Wales and Northern Ireland they were the existing boards, making six boards in total: London East Anglian Group (formed by the University of London School Examinations Board, the London Regional Examination Board and the East Anglian Examinations Board) Midland Examining Group (MEG, formed by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate, the Southern Universities’ Joint Board, the Oxford and Cambridge Schools Examination Board, East Midland Regional Examinations Board and the West Midlands Examinations Board) Northern Examining Association (NEA, formed by the Joint Matriculation Board, the Associated Lancashire Schools Examining Board, the North Regional Examinations Board, the North West Regional Examinations Board and the Yorkshire and Humberside Regional Examinations Board) Northern Ireland Schools Examination Council Southern Examining Group (SEG, formed by the Associated Examining Board, the University of Oxford Delegacy of Local Examinations, the South-East Regional Examinations Board, South Western Examinations Board and Southern Regional Exams Board) Welsh Joint Education Committee (WJEC) As CSEs were no longer offered, the CSE boards effectively ceased to operate as independent boards and instead became part of their larger examining groups (some were even taken over by larger members of their groups, such as the South East Regional Examinations Board, which was acquired by the Oxford Delegacy of Local Examinations in 1985 to form the Oxford School Examinations Board; and the South-East Regional Examinations Board and South Western Examinations Board, which merged with the AEB in 1985 and 1987 respectively). The GCE boards, however, retained a degree of autonomy, as they still offered A Levels independently. Though the boards were regional, schools were entirely free to pick which board they did their GCSE qualifications with and could mix and match between subjects. When the Certificate of Achievement (now the Entry Level Certificate, a qualification below GCSE level) was introduced, the GCSE examining groups were responsible for administering the qualification. Creation of the current boards It was not long before the GCE (A Level) boards and GCSE examining groups began to formally merge or enter into even closer working relationships. This made sense, as it allowed merged boards to offer both GCSE and A Level qualifications and the boards were working together to offer the GCSE qualifications anyway. Many boards also took the opportunity to merge with vocational

September 4, 2020
Mindscape Education

Registering with the Department of Education – what are my rights and responsibilities?

This is a hot topic of conversation among homeschoolers and a complex issue to which MindScape Education recommends parents give considerable thought. There are three relevant pieces of legislation in SA regarding this question. One is the SA Schools Act, 1996. The other is the Children’s Act, 2005 and the third is the SA constitution. Yes, there is a law that stipulates that we must register our homeschooled children with the department of education. There is also legislation that says not doing so is punishable by a fine, or imprisonment, or both. But, as a parent, you have a constitutional right to choose the kind of education your children receive, the nature of the content they learn about, and you also have a legal responsibility to always act in your children’s best interests.  We are aware of stories about intimidating Department officials arriving unannounced, yet we have also heard the complete opposite – positively glowing accounts about how helpful and constructive Department staff and officials have been.  At MindScape Education, the choice is yours. Should you choose not to register your child with the department, we completely respect your decision. However, MindScape can efficiently assist you with the registration process, should you wish to register your child with the relevant education authorities.  In conclusion, do your research. Nobody can tell you what is best for your family and nobody can make a decision as important as this one on your behalf.  Require assistance registering your child for homeschooling? 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 3, 2020
Parenting Hub

Does your pantry have a nutrition gap?

‘Flu epidemics have us thinking hard about what foods to buy to support our family’s immunity and supply the best nutritional value for money. When shopping for the pantry, remember that our bodies not only need proteins, carbohydrates and fats, but also vitamins and minerals. Refined carbs and saturated fats are generally affordable and typically part of Western style meals, but protein is often perceived to be more expensive. Correct levels of all vitamins and minerals, although needed in smaller amounts, are difficult to ensure even in a so-called balanced diet, so people tend to buy a variety of nutritional supplements.   Lifegain® ALL-IN-ONE Advanced Nutritional Supplement is therefore a good choice, particularly when seasonal changes might leave your body requiring extra nutritional support. Lifegain® (click through to www.lifegain.co.za) costs just over R12.42 a serving a day*. It is high in protein with 15 g per serving from the triple protein blend of soy protein, milk protein concentrate and whey protein isolate, and high in energy.  24 vitamins and minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, fibre and Glutamine further support immune and digestive health. There is no equivalent all-in-one supplement that provides the whole body with the high levels of nutrients that Lifegain® does.  We usually can’t do anything about stressful events, but we can control good nutrition to help us through it.   For nearly 20 years Lifegain has been supporting the healthy and those whose nutritional needs are higher due to age, injury, hospitalisation or illness. Just add two level scoops of powder to 200 ml of milk, water, juice or smoothies  Available from selected pharmacies and retail outlets nationwide and online from Takealot, Clicks and Dis-Chem.  * Lifegain® 33-serving tins in vanilla, strawberry or chocolate flavours, at around R409.95 = R12.42 a serving.  Lifegain® 10-serving tins in vanilla, cappuccino, strawberry and chocolate, and Lifegain® Junior, both around R169.95 = R17 a serving. 

September 3, 2020
Parenting Hub

JOIN THE SCIENCE SHOWOFF WITH DR GRAHAM WALKER, LIVE FROM AUSTRALIA

Prepare yourself for some serious mind-boggling science experiments as part of the free, virtual Sakhikamva Science Festival, featuring a show by Australian scientist, Dr Graham Walker on Friday, 4th September at 11am. Families can join the Science ShowOff livestream with Dr Walker of the Australian National University who, live from his home lab (aka his spare room!), performs experiments you can try at home – from vacuum-cleaner marshmallow cannons to gravity defying water – and lots you definitely should not.  There will be liquid nitrogen, explosions and much more!  Dr Graham Walker has been performing science shows for the past 19 years and is one of only two people in the world with a PhD in science show performance. His shows are science with a difference, helping kids find the fun in science through entertaining, scientifically sound and educational experiments. STEM education specialist, Sakhikamva Foundation has been hosting the action-packed, virtual science festival since 21 August, recognising that education in South Africa needs a boost of positivity. The festival has been highlighting the joy of discovery, of following your curiosity and unlocking the mysteries of our world through Science and Maths. Now the festival is gearing up for the last few shows, which include The Alien Marshmallow Challenge on Thursday, 3rd September – a challenge for families to build a structure to test if their alien will be safe if they drop it from a height – and the Fun Kahoot, a live online science quiz hosted by Steve Sherman from Living Maths on Friday, 4th September at 2pm. Participating in the Sakhikamva Foundation Science Festival is free for all. Just visit www.sakhikamva.org to book your spot. The Sakhikamva Foundation was established by forensic scientist and airline pilot, Fatima Jakoet to promote awareness of the aerospace industry through STEM learning projects.  Through a variety of programmes at schools and the world’s first STREAM Laboratory facility, Sakhikamva Foundation connects children to STEM subjects through fun, hands-on, immersive learning. 

September 3, 2020
Impaq

Helpful tips for managing your child’s academic anxiety

While most children experience some anxiety when it comes to their studies, particularly when it comes to assessments, some children are more prone to severe or chronic anxiety than others. Often this anxiety can be quite debilitating, for both the child and the parent. It seems obvious, but a child who is overwhelmed by anxiety is not going to be able to concentrate or absorb any information. Therefore, a child’s anxiety must be managed appropriately for them to be productive and, more importantly, feel safe and secure. Below are some tips on how to manage your child’s academic anxiety. Learn about anxiety It is essential for both the parent and the child to understand anxiety – if you do not understand it, you cannot manage it. For the parent, it will be useful to look into anxiety from a clinical perspective, particularly to understand the physiology of anxiety. For a student, learning about anxiety should be focused on learning about their particular anxiety. A helpful way to do this is to identify your child’s triggers. There are a few ways for you to do this: For older children, you can identify your child’s triggers by starting a conversation about your child’s thoughts and feelings. Help them understand that what they are feeling is valid, that anxiety is an emotion everyone experiences, and that it is important for them to be able to identify their feelings so the two of you can work through it.  For younger children, who are not yet able to verbalise their thoughts and feelings very well, you can ask them to illustrate what they are feeling. Often, children find it easier to express themselves visually through drawing, rather than articulating their emotions through spoken language.  Once a child can recognise when they are feeling anxious and are able to communicate this, managing the anxiety can begin. Also read: How to help a child struggling with coronavirus anxiety  Calm down Once the anxiety has been identified, the first step in managing it is to calm down. We are not particularly well-adapted to react to stressors appropriately if we are in a state of panic. Regardless of how pressured you, as a parent, feel to get through your child’s learning material, it is essential to stop teaching at once if your child verbalises their anxiety or you see symptoms of it.  There are a few strategies you can use to help your child calm down:  Try a simple breathing exercise – inhale through the nose, hold for five counts, and exhale through the mouth. Repeat this ten times. By slowing down our breathing, we slow down our heart rate and mitigate physical manifestations of anxiety, calming both our bodies and our minds.  ‘Grounding exercises’ are also useful – these are techniques that make use of our senses to help us calm down. The ‘54321’ exercise works particularly well as it forces the mind to focus on the external environment, rather than getting caught up in our thoughts. Have your child name five things they can see in the room, four things they can physically feel or touch, three things they can hear, two things they can smell, and one thing they can taste. Focus on strengths Often, anxiety occurs when a child is struggling with a task. Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses – talk to your child to find out what their academic strengths are. Some children are stronger in mathematics, others in languages, and so on.  Tip: Take a break from the subject or task with which your child is struggling and switch over to one in which they feel more confident.  By switching to a task your child is good at, will help your child build up a sense of confidence that they can then carry through to other subjects or tasks with which they struggle. Remind them that they are strong, smart, and capable – remind them that they are not failures if they struggle and that everyone struggles with something! Helping them understand this will prevent a tendency to avoid a difficult task or subject. Let it go Sometimes a child is struggling too much and simply cannot calm down or redirect their focus elsewhere. In these cases, it is sometimes best to leave the task or subject entirely. The beauty of homeschooling is that you have the flexibility to choose what and when to study. Yes, schedules and learning milestones are important, but your child’s mental health is arguably more important.  If you can tell your child just needs a break, or if they say as much, give them that break. It might be frustrating to have to shift your goals by a day or two, but no learning is going to take place if your child is stressed. Reschedule what you had planned for the day – you will get around to it eventually. Do something with your child that they enjoy, whether that be baking or watching a movie, and try again tomorrow. Also read: Fun educational activities to do with your children during lockdown If you find that your child struggles with anxiety, it might be prudent to seek out professional help from a psychiatrist or psychologist. Disclaimer: The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health providers. By Jacqui Smit

September 2, 2020
Evolve Online School

How to use a good crisis: COVID 19 and the turning point for education

In my previous blog, I concluded by quoting Winston Churchill saying, “never let a good crisis go to waste”. This pandemic has devastated the lives of millions and dealt a blow to the world economy. It has also had a profound impact on schools and the education journey of our children. In his book Stratosphere, Michael Fullan tells us that the time has arrived for schools to take the next step and move to a ‘future-relevant’ school model. We know as parents and teachers that the current way that we are doing school is not preparing our children for the kind of world they are living in and are going to have to find work in. Fullan says that there is now a perfect combination of technology, learning theory and change management. This combination will allow us to move forward if we are willing to change the way we teach. An important point that he makes about technology is that it must be “ubiquitous”, that is it must be everywhere and invisible. Think about the devices in your homes, especially phones and tablets. You probably do not even think about how advanced they are and how often you look at the screen or use it in your daily life. What Fullan is saying it should be expected for our children to do the same in their learning each day. One of the most common experiences of teachers trying to use technology in their classes is that technology often gets in the way of learning. You take your class into the lab, and everyone is excited because you are going to use the computers to learn about volcanoes using a simulation. Within seconds you see a forest of hands. “Mam my computer won’t switch on”, “I’ve forgotten my password”, “My mouse/keyboard does not work”. If we tell the kids to bring their own devices then you get; “My WiFi is not connecting”, “Mam the simulation won’t work on my device”, “I cannot access the app store?” The lesson process is disrupted. By the time all the problems have been solved, the lesson is nearly over.  These kinds of experiences have led to teachers avoiding the use of technology or only using it in shallow gimmicky ways. Technology should rather than as a tool to make students sit up and become entranced and excited about their learning.  iPads overcame many of these problems, they switch on immediately and are not likely to have software or hardware failures. This still left the issue of teachers lacking confidence and experience in using technology in their classes made worse by their early experience of frustration. You also need a proper system for managing devices at school to avoid many of the problems of using them  The pandemic has changed this. The technology implementation that took me six years to achieve as a leader in my previous school was achieved in two weeks in my current one. Teachers and parents have had enough positive experiences that the resistance to using technology has reduced. Parents have also experienced their children benefiting from asynchronous learning (where students do the work in their own time rather than at a set time with their peers). Parents are more willing to consider online schooling as a real option for their kids.  So, where does this leave us? Evolve Online School plans to take advantage of all benefits of technology to redesign the way children learn. We do not have to inherit any weaknesses from the existing system. Still, we can start from the ground up and build a new system that includes the latest advances in technology. We can embrace all the research that has been done into how children learn and build their confidence and skills. We can move away from one size fits all solutions. Most importantly, we have no buildings so we can make the costs much more affordable so that more parents can provide a quality education for their kids.  There is now a perfect opportunity for Evolve Online to make sure that the crisis we are experiencing can lead to improvements in learning. We can increase the number of children who can be properly prepared for their futures. Learning without limits can be a real experience and not just a slogan.

September 1, 2020
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