Creative expression allows children to express their feelings and emotions. It allows them freedom to articulate and express their thoughts – to think critically. Creative expression can be many things – it can be painting, dancing, fantasy play, drama, singing, crafts, building with blocks and making music.
One need only watch a young child spending a day at the beach to realise how fundamental curiosity is as a core trait in natural learning. Feeding the desire to delve into discovering things should be at the centre of all of our planning as teachers of learners of all ages. In a constantly changing world, preparing individuals for future careers is a moot point so we re-focus our efforts on skill, creativity and versatility in a yet unknown landscape in which they will spend their lives.
The number of children presenting with Sensory Integration Difficulties is increasing significantly. It is important that these difficulties are identified early and dealt with timeously as they have a large impact on a child’s functioning in the classroom, at home and in social settings.
From the start, kids are faced with the need to achieve. There are waiting lists to get into pre-school and from there, pressure to not only do your best, but rather ‘be the best’ throughout formal schooling. This all leading to tough competition for the limited spots available at a university. To address this, ambitious parents, who want what’s best for their offspring, are investing huge amounts of time and money to ensure their child has every advantage.
What Every parent should know about…creating a safe sleep environment
Do you find yourself constantly asking your child to get off their phone? Or delayed responses because they need to answer a text? Welcome to a world where toddlers have tablets and teenagers are iMessaging on the latest iPhone. A break from the digital world is the goal of our camp, to be able to revel in adventure, friendships, and personal growth. Most camps do not include cellphones on their packing list, and the reason is simple: cellphones take away from the camp experience.
Winter is here and so are coughs, colds and flu. Common colds and flu are both caused by viruses and share many of the same symptoms however colds are usually milder and do not cause any serious complications. More than 200 viruses can cause a cold whereas the flu is caused by the Influenza virus. This is why there is no vaccine available for the common cold.
In a world where life seems to keep us spinning in a never-ending vortex of fast-paced, pressured parenting, crushing bills and overwhelming expectations, Cindy Glass, Owner and Co-Founder of Step Up Education Centre says, “Parents, it seems, have lost their ability to see themselves as also worthy of happiness, peace and fulfillment. Parents seem hard-wired in continuing old patterns of parental-martyrdom (yes, there is such a thing) and parenting is tougher than ever. Parents tend to be their own biggest critics with feelings of not being good enough, not having enough time, not being organized enough, not having as much energy as one another – the list, unfortunately, does go on and on!” She adds that parents have all but forgotten that they are deserving of all the things that they want for their children – love, purpose, acknowledgment, happiness, fulfillment and peace!
As tourism is such an integral part of any country’s marketing strategy, it has become vital to offer it as part of our learning package. Not only do learners discover the “treasures” of our country, but also how to manage and use these “treasures” responsibly to the benefit of all. Tourism teaches learners to promote South Africa locally and internationally, and to ensure that tourists experience, appreciate and value our country.
Lifestyles or Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) – such as diabetes – have become an epidemic in South Africa which is why preventative and managed healthcare has become all important. Whether you rely on the public or private healthcare system it is critical that you manage your health and lead a healthy lifestyle, to prevent long term illness. Cardiovascular (heart attacks and stroke), cancer, chronic respiratory disease and diabetes are on the increase and responsible for the high cost burden of healthcare. For the around 20% (just under 8.9 million) South Africans who are on private medical aid schemes, managing their medical expenses correctly is important if they want to avoid unnecessary out of pocket expenses and make their medical benefits last longer. It also helps them understand the cost associated with the healthcare services they receive and the benefits associated with the plan they have elected. Here are the five tips from Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund on how you can stretch your medical benefits. 1. Use Designated Service Providers or networks Medical schemes negotiate preferential rates with providers – known as Dedicated Service Providers (DSPs) – who have partnered with them. This allows schemes to ensure that members get the best quality services at the most cost-effective rate so that the benefits are optimised and the scheme at large is sustainable. So if you use a network hospital, doctor or pharmacy you will not be charged more than the agreed rate. This will help you avoid co-payments and make your medical aid last longer. So, to reduce co-payments and even avoid them altogether, find a healthcare professional on your schemes network. 2. Go generic Use generic medicines which have the same active ingredient, strength and dosage as the original brands and are as effective. Most pharmacists offer a generic option, especially for chronic medication. Medical schemes are more likely to pay in full for generic medicine. Pharmacists are also able to provide sound medical advice on problems such as rashes, colds or illnesses that are not severe, simply ask and buy the recommended over-the-country medicine to save on a visit to the doctor. 3. Managed Care benefits Some schemes offer programmes to help you manage severe chronic conditions such as cancer, diabetes and HIV/AIDS. These programmes are usually covered from the risk portion of your medical contribution and are not funded from your savings account. They help you use your benefits to maximum advantage while ensuring you receive quality care by using specific providers. Other benefits – such as maternity consultations, wellness benefits, preventative care and dentistry – are also paid from risk by some schemes. Again giving you more value for money and are in addition to your savings and day-to-day benefits. Carefully read through what your plan offers and choose wisely to make sure you find the right plan to suit your specific healthcare needs 4. Know the facts If you do need to be hospitalised and it’s not an emergency ensure that it’s on your medical aid’s DSP list. Talk to your doctor or specialist to find out all the facts in terms of what they will be charging and compare this to what your scheme will cover. If the difference is substantial, negotiate. Approach your doctor and ask if they are prepared to adjust their fee. Alternatively, you can also check if there are other healthcare providers on your scheme’s network that will charge you a better rate. You can also avoid the unwelcome surprise of a co-payment or sub-limits by: Making sure you obtain pre-authorisation Making sure the medical practitioner uses the correct ICD-10 codes Checking what additional costs will apply (if any), what costs will be covered and how you can avoid these. 5. Keep moving One of the best ways to manage your health and the associated costs, is to live a healthy lifestyle and this includes getting enough exercise. Try different exercise routines and find one that works for you. Whether it is a regular short power walk, playing tennis or soccer, riding a bike or attending a yoga or pilates class, it will be beneficial to your mental and physical wellbeing. ‘Be informed and make good and less costly healthcare decisions,’ says Callakoppen. ‘Your health is important, so take time to research and understand the medical aid plan you are on. Read the information sent to you by the scheme or your broker, including the fine print and, if you don’t understand some of the terms, speak to your broker or phone the customer care line. Understand and know your rights in terms of healthcare cover, this will go a long way in helping you make the most of your benefits.’
“Core strength” has been a buzz word in the health industry the last few years, but its importance cannot be undermined especially in children. “The core muscles consist of the abdominal, hip and back muscles who work together to stabilize and align the trunk and pelvis during static and dynamic movements,” explains Clamber Club Expert and Biokineticist, Shehnaaz Bhabha.
One of the sturdiest and most popular car seats on the market, the Seat Up is the rock solid Isofix-installed car seat that parents have been raving about around the world. The perfect combination of safety, comfort and practicality, Seat Up cocoons the newborn baby with a mini reducer and then gets adjusted at the headrest and sides as the child grows. Also rear and front-facing depending on age group, the seat will be your child’s companion on their journeys until about 25kgs in weight, making it a logical solution in terms of longevity and savings. The 3-reclinning positions will keep comfort a priority too. A definite all-rounder in terms of car seat stars.
We want our girls to have every opportunity to become strong, successful women. How we treat them in childhood has a huge role to play. Find out how you can boost your daughter’s confidence and empower her to be amazing!
Mfundo (not his real name), a grade 1 learner, was struggling at school. His distraught parents explained that he was acting out in class and fighting with his classmates. His teacher did not know how to handle his angry tantrums and aggressive behaviours. His parents admitted that they were experiencing similar behaviours at home and they were confused. You see, Mfundo was an achiever. He was top of his class in academics and a champion on the sport’s field. He seemed unbeatable. So, why was Mfundo’s behaviour out of control? On further investigation, it became clear that Mfundo was an exemplary young man when he was on winning, but whenever he made a mistake or did not come first, he became angry and aggressive. He was known to punch children who dared stand ahead of him in a school line, or who ran ahead of him in a race. His parents were surprised that it was concluded that Mfundo suffered from a low self-esteem! How could this be, they wondered? You see, Mfundo defined his self-worth on winning. He ONLY felt worthy of love, acknowledgement, purpose and joy when he was on top. In his mind, when he was not number one, he was nothing and that was a dangerous place for him to be! Nobody can always be number one. We are hard-wired to experience challenges, failures and disappointments. It is at these times that we learn our greatest lessons. Mfundo, like so many children, had to learn to love and appreciate himself in all circumstances. He had to learn that NOT being number one, did not mean that HE was less. He had to learn the value of falling and being willing to rise again. So, what do you do if your child is like Mfundo? Teach them: To always try their best: Striving for non-existent perfectionism is self-destructive. Their time, effort, skills and attitude count more than the win: Only one person can be number one, but EVERYONE can feel a sense of accomplishment when they have a can-do mindset! Making mistakes and failing from time-to-time is normal and expected: The very fact that your child is human guarantees this! It is the lessons that are learnt and how they choose to rise again that will ensure consistent success in their lives! That YOU, as their parents, are not perfect: Model tools and attitudes that will assist your children in loving themselves through their challenges, just as you do the same! Be happy for themselves when they win, but, to be happy for others who do the same. Being happy for others is a sign of positive self-esteem! Help your children grow and learn as they embrace successes and failures in an environment which encourages them to believe in their capabilities and talents. Help them to strive to be the best version of who they were born to be and perfect is not it!
Process art is all about the experience children have when they are creating. We encourage it at Toptots to enable the child to explore and be exposed to different mediums. Process art needs to be open ended and the child should be left alone to explore and create without any adult interference. Children learn through play and open-ended activities – this gives them the chance to explore and ask questions and see how things work. Process art is all about the actual process and not the end product.
Parents often struggle with knowing the correct temperature of their baby’s bath water. Whilst it is safe to say that bath water is often best at 37 degrees Celsius, how do we know the water is that exact temperature? Chicco introduce two cute bath time favourite toys that act as thermometers and read bath water temperature. Throw them in before placing baby inside the water and rest assured the water is fine for baby’s delicate skin. The floating fish thermometer (both in pink and blue) is a cute bath toy that reads temperature with a sensitive thermo-strip that changes colour with water temperature. Also available is the digital whale in orange colour. Chuck the whale in the bath and watch as it digitally tells you the exact temperature of the water while he bops about and makes a great bath time toy. Fish thermometer available at Baby City, www.takealot.com, www.loot.co.za, selected Kids Emporium stores and Whale Digital Thermometer available at www.takealot.com, www.loot.co.za, selected Kids Emporium stores.
Helping your child to understand their emotions and what emotions are from a young age is imperative to the healthy development of emotional intelligence. These skills can be introduced from as early as 3 years of age. Often times parents do not take the time to teach this vital skill to their child, which results in a child not being able to effectively understand or express themselves. The Happy Yosh Book by Pauline Gerson is an easy and interactive book targeted for children between the ages of 3 and 7 years. It is easy to understand as well as beautifully illustrated. The book is aimed to allow your child to firstly understand the basic emotions such as: Sad, Happy, Scared and Angry. Once a child is able to understand what these emotions are, you can explore further into topics such as “What makes you happy?”, “What makes you scared?”. This certainly is an easy way to open conversations and then to start adapting these into general daily life. A child that has a greater understanding of their emotions and how to handle them, provides a good foundation for when they get older. We would highly recommend purchasing this book from Smart Emotions. You can do so by visiting www.smartemotions.co.za emailing [email protected] or Give them a call on 083 556 8684 The book is available in both English and Afrikaans.
Bath Temperature Indicator The Chicco Bath Temperature Indicator is a wonderful device that can be used to not only measure the temperature of a room but is able to measure the bath temperature as well – did we mention it is super cute and it floats! With the digital display, you can monitor your child’s bedroom temperature and ensure that the bath is just right with one simple product. This product will set you back approximately R120 Bath Thermometer Another super cute floating device that can be used to get the best temperature measurement for your little one’s bath. With the thermo-strip, the thermometer will tell you what the ideal temperature is without the guessing games. Both of these amazing and fun thermometers are available from leading retail outlets as well as Takealot, Loot and selected Kids Emporium stores. This product will set you back approximately R120
What is art? Art is the “expression or application of human creative skill and imagination” thus may be brought through in a child in many forms: Music, Dance, Literature or Visual Creative Arts. Art is a fundamental; this could almost be considered part of a vital milestone in the pre-school child’s learning. In my experiences with visual arts, the atelier is a place of research and experimentation where the child can express themselves through the stimulation of their own creativity. The experience is one of enjoyment and plays a role in shaping their own sense of personal, social and cultural identity. The art activities set out are of great importance as: They help develop fine motor, gross motor and hand-eye co-ordination skills. Problem solving abilities develop as they explore a huge variety of new materials and tools around them. Art is one of the many languages of the world, discussions and conversations lead in different directions building on vocabulary and then where children of a limited vocabulary also have an outlet to express themselves. The stages of art from scribbling to consciously drawing shapes, form a foundation for school readiness. They teach children about cause and effect appealing to the child’s sense of curiosity. Therefore, open–ended art is essential as it helps children not to be afraid of change and allows for a higher order thinking. A sense of pride is developed, through the planning of an activity to the final outcome, it all has a purpose. The child’s self-esteem develops through activities where they can express their own thinking through the freedom of choice. Independence is encouraged and taking responsibility for an activity boosts self-confidence. Working in groups at times, spark collaboration, socialising and compromise, which are all life skills that are crucial for development. Cultural identity and differences are built on through the introduction of various artists and their art works. Art should no longer just take on the form of using only some or other mark-making tool onto paper. Art is the discovery of building, fitting, fixing, breaking and composing of loose parts, using old things to become new things. Thus, repurposing and upcycling. Our mind sets have been shifted from the traditional ridged and somewhat constricted views of what constitutes art or an artist. I think we as teachers are only scrapping the tip of the iceberg of the possibilities available worldwide. So, when teaching, we should then take on the opportunity to explore and expose our children to the wealth of resources available. Once we take on this ‘new age’ way of thinking we can then understand the full rich meaning of why art is so fundamental in learning, in the classroom and beyond. By Charlene Lang (Teacher at Maragon Ruimsig Pre-Primary)
Children and teenagers have to be shown and taught how to deal with money. We are advised that, “The love of money is the root of all evil.” The source of this wisdom is the Book of Timothy in the Bible. This well-known adage is often mis-quoted as, “Money is the root of all evil,” which does not mean the same at all. It is greed and corruption and the misuse of the currency which can cause trouble for us, not the cold, hard cash or credit cards in your wallet. In accordance with your family’s wishes and beliefs, it is a good idea for children to learn to manage small amounts of money and experience having to budget for desired items. We know that we are living in a world and society where many young people feel entitled to have everything they want, or least everything their friends have. Not every family has the same financial means and children should be taught to understand that fact. Teach your children not to show off with money. Decide, as a parent, with your teenager, what would be a reasonable weekly allowance. Receiving a weekly amount to begin with may be better than a monthly sum, which may seem large and be squandered initially. Just like all adults, all children are different, so watch, without interfering, how your teenager manages money in the early stages. The amount to give depends on you as a parent and also on what you expect your teen to buy with this allowance. Do you give your teen a separate budget for cellphone usage or to buy family gifts? Those details need to be negotiated between you and your teenager. The teenager is still at school and either living at home or in the boarding house at school. He should not have to pay for his daily lunches at the tuckshop at school from his allowance. To avoid this expensive trap, pack an interesting and healthy lunchbox and provide a water bottle for school every day. If the child, sometimes, wants to buy something at the tuckshop, then that item should come from his allowance. Many parents believe that children should do chores around the home in exchange for an allowance. These chores could include cleaning the house, taking care of the garden or swimming pool or feeding the family’s pets. A lot of teens also do the cooking at home if a parent is busy at work or with younger siblings. Some parents are stricter than others and will deduct from an allowance for tasks not performed satisfactorily. Doing work in exchange for an allowance can teach responsibility and give your teen a taste of what the real world will be like. Everyone needs to learn to perform basic tasks like ironing a short or polishing school shoes. It is reasonable to expect a teenager to budget for non-school clothing and entertainment, such as movies or treats with friends. Should she wish to buy more expensive items of clothing, she should learn to save her allowance and budget. This is good training for when she is an adult and working and earning her own money for the first time. Teach your teenager to work wisely with money and save a small amount every month. Allow him to learn the value of money whilst still in the safety of your home. Encourage him not to be extravagant or to waste money unnecessarily. Enjoy and use your money carefully, but don’t LOVE it! By: Mrs Tracy Freemantle (Teacher at Pinnacle College Kyalami)
Recently, the Twistshake Food Processor has been introduced to South Africa. This is a remarkable product and offers a 6 in 1 user experience. Take a look at everything you need to know about the Twistshake Food Processor below, and see why you should own one today. The 6 In 1 Functionality Of The Twistshake Food Processor This machine will allow you to perform the following functions: Steaming: you will be able to steam fruit, vegetables, or meat products for your baby’s next meal Heating: you will be able to heat your baby’s bottle for breastmilk, or bowl or plate for puree o the Twistshake Food Processor Warmer: You will also be able to keep your baby’s freshly prepared food warm for a set period of time on this device Blending: you will be able to blend and puree foods to make your own baby food at home Sterilizing: this product also allows you to sterilize bottles and pacifiers Descaling: you can automatically descale your Twistshake Food Processor with the simple push of a button Why The Twistshake Food Processor Is A Must Have All parts of the Twistshake food processor are made from food grade materials, meaning harmful things such as BPA, BPS and BPF are nowhere to be seen. Furthermore, you will be able to seamlessly make great, nutritional food for your baby. Know exactly what is going into their food by making it from the comfort of your own home! With the automated cooking pre-sets, you will be able to whip up healthy food in no time. What Your Twistshake Food Processor Will Come With The Food Processor A Blending Jar The Steam Container Accessories: your processor comes with a set of tongs, a ladle and two squeeze bags to package your baby’s puree into
Certainly the worst part about winter starting and the chill in the air is the sick kids! As a parent, you sit up late at night wondering if your child has a fever and we always seem to have everything in the medical kit except for a good, quick and accurate thermometer. There is nothing worse than trying to hold a thermometer under the arm of a wriggly and cranky child. The Chicco Thermo Distance Thermometer is a non contact thermometer and can measure temperature approximately between 4 and 6cm away from the child. The thermometer is not only quick in reading the temperature in a single second but it can be used from birth upward. Best of all, when your little one is sleeping, there is no need to wake them to take their temperature. You simply do this by changing the device to night mode. The Chicco Thermo Distance Thermometer has a large LED display so you will be able to check temperatures from now on without disturbing your child! The Thermo Distance records the last measurement temperature taken, so it will be useful for wanting to check if your child’s temperature has gone down or has continued to rise. The Thermo Distance also indicates if it has taken the temperature of your child or of an object close by, thus ensuring that the measurement is accurate every time. This product certainly is a must in any medicine cabinet and is available from leading retail outlets as well as Takealot, Loot and selected Kids Emporium stores. This product will set you back from R900 upward
We all have times where we favour one child over another. Children go through different phases and some of these can be extremely challenging. It is easier to get on with and ‘like’ the child not going through a difficult phase or one who has a naturally more cooperative temperament. These are usually transitory fluctuations in the way that we like our children (note this does not mean that we love one more than another, but that they’re easier to get on with at that time) and can change from day to day or month to month. Long-term favouritism usually comes from a parent who has not accepted all parts of themselves. We will all project the parts of ourselves that we are too humble or too proud to admit that we have onto the people around us. For example, all people are sometimes energetic and sometimes lazy (these are both natural human traits that we all have in some form). But if you are too proud to admit that you are ever lazy, you may project this ‘undesirable’ trait onto one of your children. You then place a label on that child and judge them as being ‘less than’ the child in whom you have projected more satisfying traits. And the more we label someone, the more we tend to only see that side of them, instead of seeing them for the whole person that they truly are. Another reason that we may have favourites has to do with our own values. A parent will tend to like a child more if they have similar values to their own. For example, if the parent values education, knowledge and status, and has one child who is academic, head girl, and has been recognised in her community, and another child who loves fashion, make-up and partying, it is easy to see who might become the favourite. The fact is, that in any family you will have one (or more) children who tend to value things that you don’t. This does not make them wrong or inferior or unworthy, just different to you. In fact, when we start looking at self-development, it is the child most different to yourself from whom you can learn the most and grow the most. The main danger in favouritism is that the unfavoured child will suffer a blow to their sense of self-worth. Our self-worth is responsible for our overall success, creativity, confidence, happiness and inner peace. A positive sense of self worth allows us to explore the world and try new things, to fulfil our dreams, to avoid peer pressure and to feel loved and loveable. If a child feels that they are not as loved, that they are somehow less than their sibling, they can start labelling themselves as ‘unworthy’, ‘unlovable’, ‘not good enough’, etc. In my experience of coaching adults, the majority of their problems come from these kinds of limiting beliefs about themselves. Having one of these beliefs will hamper your relationships, career, friendships, health and general well being in life. A child experiencing this may, on the one hand, become an over-achiever, trying to prove their worth to the parent/s. (Just as a side note, the favoured child may also end up with self-worth issues, believing that there is something that they DO that makes them favoured and therefore trying desperately to hang onto this status.) Or, they may give up, see themselves as not worth the effort, and fall prey to peer pressure, drugs, alcohol, and other forms of delinquency. The best way to avoid this is to seriously look at yourself. If you find that you are favouring one child over another, ask yourself what it is in yourself that you are trying to avoid. Ask yourself if you could learn something from the least favoured child. Learn to accept all parts of yourself and you won’t have to reject these parts in someone else (whether that be a child, spouse, co-worker or friend). Everyone in our lives, and particularly our children, can help us to grow as human beings and to find wholeness. If you’re struggling to do this on your own (and often it is very difficult to see our own flaws objectively) then work with a friend, coach or therapist to uncover what is really going on. Every child is a unique individual, different from everyone else and from themselves yesterday, and learning and growing at their own pace. Appreciate each child for who they are in this moment, knowing that they (and you) will change as time goes on. Every child deserves your love, regardless of what they are going through at the time.
Preparing for a Caesarean birth is a simple, but needed, process. As with a natural birth, there are a few simple tick boxes you will need to have in place for preparation of the arrival of your baby. Read on below now to get the gist of what to consider when leading up to your C-section. The List Of Preparation Tasks For Your Caesarean Who Will Be With You? Consider whom you would like to accompany you into the delivery room before your surgery. Make a list of the people, or person, who you’d like by your side, and make the hospital staff aware of your choice. Do You Want Music? some moms like to listen to a little music before the birth of their baby. If you would like that, consult with your doctor to see if this would be allowed. If you re given the green light, start compiling a play list to help you through your delivery! Do You Want A Camera? ask your midwife if you will be allowed to bring in a camera into the delivery room. If you will be, ensure you designate someone as your photographer. Where Would You Prefer The Screen Placement? if you would like to see the birth of your baby, be sure to ask the doctor to lower the screen upon delivery. Also, if you would prefer no screen, be sure to ask for that pre-surgery as well. How would You Like Delivery To Occur? be sure before you go into your operating room that the staff are aware of your delivery requirements. Would you like silence during the birth so that the first voice your baby hears is your own? How soon post-delivery would you like skin to skin contact with your baby? Be sure to stipulate all of your requirements clearly with your delivery team to avoid disappointment!
Going through a divorce can be extremely harrowing and stressful, not just for the couple themselves but also for their children. And, given the divorce statistics released recently by StatsSA, divorce is on the increase. More than 25 390 divorce papers were filed in 2017, four in 10 divorces came from marriages that lasted less than 10 years and 55,6% involved children. Part of the anxiety is financial which can be exacerbated, depending on whether you are married in community of property have an ante nuptial agreement with or without an accrual clause. It can be very difficult going through the nitty-gritty details, especially when emotions are high. There are a lot of factors to consider, including how to divide up property and other assets, child care and support and, just as important, healthcare. Divorce can seriously impact the healthcare cover you might have previously enjoyed, especially if you are your children were on a joint medical aid, with one partner being the main member and the rest of the family listed as dependants. We put a few questions to Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund to help you make sure have the right information and follow the correct procedures to ensure your healthcare is not compromised during divorce proceedings. What is the correct process to follow when getting divorced and taking a dependant off your medical aid? All changes in dependency must be sent through to the medical aid. You are usually required to fill in a form regarding this and provide supporting documents. In instances of a divorce, you will need to provide the divorce settlement to your medical aid together with your form. Is there a notice period required? Usually changes are effected within 30 days, which means you do need to allow time for the change to take place. What are the rights of the dependent being removed in terms of coverage while moving to a new medical aid? The main member is effectively the policyholder when it comes to medical aid and his/her dependants are beneficiaries. Unfortunately, this means the dependant has no rights once they are removed from the membership which is why it is important to obtain cover for you after a divorce with immediately effect. Does moving from one medical aid to another impact continuity of cover and/or will waiting periods apply? The usual underwriting rules apply so check with your new medical aid in terms of waiting periods and/or any exclusions. What happens if the medical aid cover was always in the ‘husbands’ name and now the ex-wife wants to apply – will she been penalised for not having a medical aid and be charged late joiner fee (if over 35)? No, however you will be required to prove that you have previously belonged to a medical aid. We advise that you request a certificate of membership showing the period that you belonged to the medical scheme as a dependant on your ex-spouse’s medical aid. What are the advantages and disadvantages of being a dependent on a partner/spouse’s medical aid? Advantages Reduced contributions, the monthly contributions for an adult dependant is cheaper than that of a main member Disadvantages The main member has to provide access and approval in order for a dependant to access online portals etc Can a divorced couple still share a medical aid scheme or does this only apply to children? Yes, if one spouse is financially dependent on the spouse. You will need to provide proof of dependency for this. If you are able to remain or your ex’s plan would this be a recommendation in terms of medical cover and continuity of healthcare? No. You will still have continuity of cover if you join a medical aid as the main member. The bottom line: Although divorce means heartbreak and emotional turmoil you do need to keep your wits about you. Seek the help of a financial adviser or broker to ensure you don’t compromise on your health or that of your children. Keep copies of your divorce papers, get any additional paperwork required, notify the existing medical aid of the changes and sign up for you own medical aid or hospital plan that kicks in immediately.
Winter is coming in South Africa and flu, colds and fevers may become a reality in our home. A parent of young children need an ally when it comes to looking after sick loved ones and nothing gives the confidence that a practical and intuitive thermometer can. Both the Digi Baby Digital Thermometer and the Flex Night Thermometers from Chicco are suitable for accurate and fast oral or rectal measurements. Digi Baby is practical and colourful with a specially designed probe and takes measurements in 60 seconds. The Flex Night is a flexi-probe for extra comfort as well as having a backlight display to take temperatures during the night and takes measurements in 10 seconds. Both thermometers take readings in both Celsuis and Fahrenheit. Both thermometers are clinically tested and available at Baby City, www.takealot.com, www.loot.co.za and selected Kids Emporium stores. Retail prices are: Digi baby – R79 and Flex Night – R249.
Statistics have shown that nearly 70% of common illnesses are spread through the hands by people who have touched ordinary everyday objects. These numbers are worrying given how susceptible babies and young children are to sickness. Most people are surprised to learn that most germs that affect our children breed in common spaces in our homes despite our best efforts to keep these spaces clean. However, although these numbers are understandably worrying, the situation can be contained with a number of simple measures that can keep your children safe and your worries in check through the newborn stage. To do this effectively, there are few things you should keep in mind about germs around your home. Germs in the Home There are so many different surfaces around and in our homes, and all of them are infested with various forms of germs, some of which are harmless and others not. Germs have existed since the beginning of time and can be defined simply as species of bacteria, viruses or disease-causing fungi and protozoa. If you are looking for where these germs are found in your home, you may be surprised to learn that the kitchen drain is actually one of the dirtiest places in the home with the kitchen sponge coming in as a close second. This just goes to show that germs are not concentrated in the places we expect them to be. However, there are a number of easy ways to keep your kitchen germ free as well as your bathroom and your baby’s room. Start With the Kitchen The kitchen has been shown to be one of the dirtiest rooms in the house. It’s home to a large number of germs and bacteria responsible for illnesses: e.coli, salmonella, norovisus and hepatitis-A. Because of the amount of activity that takes place in the kitchen and how many people go in and out regularly, it is recommended that you keep a newborn away from this space even if you clean it thoroughly. However, so you don’t carry germs from the kitchen to your baby, it is important to implement a few measures. First, make sure you disinfect any area on which you have prepared any meat such as fish or steak and the like. It is also important to regularly wash your floors with a disinfectant in case your baby happens to crawl in. Most importantly, disinfect and dry any rags that are used in the kitchen area to prevent germs from festering. Sanitizing Bed Sheets Your bedding and your baby’s bed sheets and covers are some of the most important house items to keep germ free. The bed is where your baby and even you will spend a lot of your time and therefore, it is important to keep high sanitary standards for these. Dead skin cells, body oil, and plain dirt are some of the things you expect to find on any random bed sheet. Make sure to wash your sheets and pillowcases at least once a week with detergent and disinfectant. Wash your baby’s bedding each week as well but make sure to wash them separately from other laundry to prevent the spread of germs. Keeping your baby protected from germs may seem a daunting task for new parents but with a few simple routines, you can help keep your home and your baby safe.
The provision of a constant, clean supply of municipal water is a necessity that underlies modern infrastructure – ensuring that convenience and hygiene are easily attainable, with water freely available at the turn of the tap. What is often overlooked; however, is that in order to achieve this, a cocktail of chemicals are added to the water supply. These include free chloride and chloromines, along with other heavy metal elements and VOC’s (volatile organic compounds) such as pesticides, fertilizers, petro-chemicals, dioxins, radioactive materials and micro-organisms. Ideally, these substances should be filtered out of all consumable water as evidenced by the widespread popularity of household water filters and purification systems. Less known, but as important, is that impurities such as these can also be absorbed through the respiratory systems and eyes, whilst the highly absorptive nature of the skin means that up to 60% of the chlorine that most people absorb daily is due to showering or bathing in chlorinated water. When it comes to incorporating filtered water into your showering routine though, things can get tricky as the efficiency of a carbon filter is severely compromised by high temperatures, pressure and the volume that a showerhead handles. That’s where, the latest in innovative technology ─ Vit-C Shower comes in! Delivering the benefits of Vitamin C directly to you, the Vit-C Shower combines intelligent design and the powerful effects of Vitamin C to provide users with a water supply that is dechlorinated and packed with natural benefits. As opposed to conventional filters that only remove around 20 – 50% of the chlorine in water, the Vit-C shower dechlorinates and neutralizes up to 99.8% of free chlorine and chloromines in the water. What makes this possible is the pioneering use of Vitamin C within a filter that is independent from the shower head. Exposure to Vitamin C in the form of ascorbic acid enclosed ceramic balls, not only allows for far greater dechlorination but also provides users with an array of supplementary benefits; helping in the growth and repair of all body tissues, formation of collagen, absorption of iron, wound healing, maintenance of cartilage, bones and teeth and immune system defences. This is then bolstered by a rigorous 12 stage filtration process that includes sediment filters in the form of micro-porous cotton and stainless steel mesh, along with a variety of additional elements that include calcium sulphite, malfan stone and tourmaline to ensure that the highest water quality is maintained. The negative consequences of chlorine and chloromines in our water are manifold. Amongst others, skin and hair are stripped of their natural oils thus possibly resulting in over 20% of infants and children, and 3% of adults suffering from eczema type skin conditions. What Vit-C shower offers is a chance to dramatically reduce this possibility, whilst providing gentle care for your skin in the form of water that is softer, gentler and which leaves you feeling refreshed and revitalized!
The world of work is changing more rapidly than ever before. Shifts in economies and the advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution leave parents anxious about their child’s future. This anxiety can often lead to frustration and conflict in the parent-child relationship, which seems to exacerbate both party’s concerns. From a career counselling perspective, here are three reasons why I believe it may be unfair for your child to commit to a career in high school.
Choosing a school for your little one should not be a last minute, hasty decision. Start looking at least three months before you need to enter your child, if you are looking to place a baby. If you want your child to join a good school when they turn three, you should start looking at birth. This may seem ludicrous but the top Pre-Primary schools have waiting lists several years long! The first decision is whether to place your child in a school near home or near your place of work. Small children suffer from many little illnesses and most schools want a sick child to go home as soon as possible. Choose a school that is close enough for someone to fetch them promptly if they fall ill. No matter how loving the care at school, a sick child just wants the comfort of home. Choose a school whose hours suit your schedule. If the school closes at 5.30pm, you must be able to reach it with time to spare, regardless of the traffic. Does the school open early enough for you to get to work? You cannot leave a small child outside the gate and assume that someone will take responsibility! There are so many places of care to choose from at the moment that you may be bewildered by the choice. Take the time to visit the school unannounced. Check the security first, it should not be possible for you just to drive in. Are there cameras at the door and an entrance procedure? Next, how are you greeted and dealt with by the receptionist? This should be efficient, friendly and with an offer to show you the school, either then or by appointment. An appointment does not mean they have anything to hide; good schools have to allocate time and staff to deal with parents effectively. Is the reception clutter free and efficiently run? Are the admittance forms neatly printed and requesting sufficient background detail on your child? When you look around, watch the children. Under-fives should be playing freely and busily with clean, unbroken toys that are well displayed to enable choice, or engaged in activities that are stimulating creativity or enhancing number or literacy skills. There should be no worksheets or cloned art work. Is the classroom clean and attractive, with good natural light and ventilation? Is there sufficient space for the children? Crowded rooms lead to fights and stress. Has the teacher (who should be SACE registered) an assistant to manage bathroom visits, messes and to support play? Is there evidence of an overall theme that the children are investigating? Are there good quality books in a comfy spot for reading? Are the carpets and floors clean? Beware of schools that are too tidy and immaculate as this could mean that the equipment is for display, not the children’s use. Children should be aware of your presence but not clamouring for your attention. What is your language policy for your child? If they are to attend Primary school in a specific language, they will be at an advantage if their early years are spent in the same language. This does not mean that you should forsake your home language. Bi-lingual children have a cognitive advantage, but do not confuse your child by subjecting him/her to a constant mixture of languages. Choose a school that will help your child enter grade 1 with a strong vocabulary and comprehension, as well as an ability to engage in their intellectual education with understanding. What do you require in the way of meals? Not all schools serve breakfast, lunch and snacks and the price should reflect what is provided. Check out the kitchen, the kitchen staff and the certificates from the local authority indicating that the school is licenced to provide meals. Look at the menus. Is there sufficient variety and fresh fruit and vegetables? Ask about who feeds the little ones and how meals are conducted for the older ones. Are the children forced to eat their meals? Can the school cater for genuine allergies, (Not fussy eaters!) If your child is still a baby, check the policies on formulas, nappies, wet wipes etc. If the school supplies everything, it may be a little more expensive but well worth your while in terms of convenience. Look at the nappy changing areas, where everything should be neatly labelled and the area safe and well ventilated, with proper disposal facilities. Potty training areas should be bright and welcoming, with small toilets for children aged two plus. Are the baby rooms warm enough for the babies to play and crawl on the floor and not be kept in a cot all day. Who provides the cot linen and how often is it washed? There should be a nursing sister available for very young babies, as well as well-trained carers who will talk to and stimulate your child. The outdoor area should have grass, sand, water, shade and wheeled toys, as well as safe climbing and swinging equipment, appropriate for the different age groups. Children are stimulated by their environment so the garden should be attractive, bright and well supervised. Gross motor development underlies all other development at this age so there should be a minimum of an hour per morning and afternoon set aside for active, outdoor play. Last but not least, the atmosphere of the school should be welcoming and child friendly. Do not be swayed by the latest technological devices and lessons if the staff seem aloof and uncaring. With proper research your child should be happy and well stimulated in the chosen environment until it is time for Big School. Written By: Barbara Eaton (Academic Development Co-ordinator of ADvTECH Pre-Primary Schools)
