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Advice from the experts

Review: KURO-Bō Natural Water Filter System

Zero-waste and plastic free… this is the life that many are trying to achieve in 2019. The KURO-Bō natural water filter system is a must purchase this year. Starting from the glass bottle to the unique filter system this product is 100% easy and 100% convenient! The bottles retail from R260 for a 1 litre bottle. Once you have your bottle which features a bamboo lid and removable sleeve, you will need to grab some KURO-Bō detoxing Activated charcoal Kōins. The process works by means of you boiling the KURO-Bō tablets for 10 minutes. You simply add the charcoal tablet to your tap water and place it in the fridge in your stylish bottle for an hour or two for the magic to start. The KURO-Bō charcoal Kōins purify, mineralise and ph balance your water while you are active on the move. They absorb toxins, bacteria and are enriched with minerals such as calcium and magnesium! For more information visit www.kuro-bo.com or visit good independent health store country wide to get your own. They are also available from Wellness Warehouse, selected Spar outlets, Dis-Chem and @Home Stores. Purchase online from Faithful-to-Nature and Takealot

February 15, 2019

HEALTHY EATING FOR A HEALTHY PREGNANCY

There’s nothing else quite like pregnancy to sharpen your focus on your health and well-being. The journey of carrying and nurturing new life within your body is an exceptionally special time, and moms-to-be are deeply invested in doing it as well as they can. Advice will inevitably come from all quarters, and it is important to tap into expert sources that will give you peace of mind that you are on the right track. The aim of Pregnancy Awareness Week this month is to help moms access the information they need to support a healthy pregnancy and safe motherhood. The Department of Health urges pregnant South African women to access antenatal care as early as possible in their pregnancies. This provides the opportunity to understand and manage any health issues, as well as get information on important factors such as self-care and nutrition. Once the pregnancy is confirmed by a nurse at a health facility, the mother can register for MomConnect, a free cell phone-based resource for accessing pregnancy-related health information. Nazeeia Sayed, a registered dietitian and spokesperson for ADSA (Association for Dietetics in South Africa), points out that good nutrition is vital as it supports a healthier pregnancy and a healthier baby. “Pregnancy is a great opportunity to get yourself and the family into the habit of healthy eating before the new baby arrives,” she says. “You don’t need special or expensive foods. A healthy diet during pregnancy is made up of foods that we commonly encounter when grocery shopping. A variety of fruit and veg, whole grains, legumes and lentils, dairy, plant fats and lean meats, fish and eggs can all be enjoyed while you are pregnant and will provide the nutrients you need.” What nutrients should moms-to-be focus on? Following a balanced diet according to the accepted healthy eating guidelines is the optimum nutritional route to support a healthy pregnancy. Pregnancy is definitely not the time for weight loss or fad diets that focus on particular nutrients at the expense of others. Registered dietitian and ADSA spokesperson, Cath Day says, “Energy (kilojoule) restriction during pregnancy is not recommended! High protein diets which increase ketone production are also not recommended as the foetus has a limited ability to metabolize ketones. It is much healthier for you to adopt a balanced diet with a good variety.” Nutrients such as folic acid, calcium, iron and protein are all important to the developing baby; however a balanced diet will, in most cases, meet these needs. Women enrolled in the government’s antenatal care programme will receive supplements of the essential micro-nutrients; and many women choose to supplement with folic acid to prevent the risks of Spina Bifida and cleft palate. Day points out that meeting protein requirements during pregnancy is as simple as ensuring that you eat roughly six servings or between 180 g- 210 g of protein each day (size of two palms or two decks of cards). One serving equates to 30 g lean meat or fish, 1/2 cup of legumes, 15 g nuts or one egg. “These are also the best sources of iron which is needed to prevent anaemia,” she says. “By eating fruit and vegetables high in vitamin C at the same time as eggs, nuts and pulses, you can enhance iron absorption from these foods.” Focusing on a variety of healthy foods for each meal or snack, rather than the particular nutrients, is what helps to ensure you and baby get what you need. Sayed says, “Some examples of this are choosing nutrient-dense meals or snacks like an omelette with veg, a fruit and yoghurt smoothie, a salad with raw veg, nuts or lean meat; or a cooked lentil dish with green leafy veg and rice.” What should moms-to-be avoid? Smoking tops the list of what shouldn’t be going into a pregnant body. While there’s debate about whether drinking one glass of wine is safe for a growing baby, many experts and governments around the world advise a complete avoidance of alcohol during pregnancy. Pregnant women should avoid foods with a greater risk for contamination with Listeria or other bacteria or parasites, including under-cooked meat and eggs, raw fish, processed meats and unpasteurised dairy and soft cheeses. Dietitians also advise avoiding fish that may contain high levels of mercury such as swordfish, shark, tuna steaks and canned fish brands that are not tested. Caffeine intake should be limited, and rather swopped out for decaf options, with water as your best beverage of choice. Foods that are high in salt, sugar and other refined carbohydrates should be limited as they crowd out the opportunity for you to eat healthy foods which provide for your vitamin, mineral and fibre needs. They can also lead to excessive weight gain which increases your risks of developing high blood pressure issues and gestational diabetes. Reach out and get help when you need it Healthy eating during pregnancy does not have to be complicated or a minefield. It might be more challenging for moms-to-be who need to make big changes; or who are overweight or managing other health conditions. A registered dietitian can be an important ally to come up with a healthy eating plan that suits your food preferences, your budget and your lifestyle. “The big advantage of using your pregnancy as the inspiration to eat well is that you can go on to become a healthy eating role model for your precious child, instilling healthy eating habits that can last them a lifetime,” Sayed concludes. To find a registered dietitian in your area visit www.adsa.org.za.

February 14, 2019

Kidico Sticks It to The Bland

Kidico is a Durban-based sticker and label printing company with a difference. From customised vinyl name labels and iron on clothing labels, to colourful bag tags and personalised towels, a world of cute characters, vibrant colours and exceptional quality products awaits at Kidico! Who is Kidico? Kidico has a simple vision: to facilitate fun, exciting school experiences for children across South Africa. Regardless of where you need quality school stickers, Kidico is able to deliver to your doorstep! The Kidico website (www.kidico.co.za) is where the magic happens. Each Kidico product can be customised with an impressive selection of fonts, background colours and oh-so-cute animated characters for boys and girls. Kids can, with a little techno-assistance from mom or dad, even design stickers and labels themselves! What Sets Kidico Apart? There are four defining features that set Kidico apart from the bulk sticker printing crowd: Fast turnaround times Even at their busiest, Kidico is able to process sticker orders at lightening speed and distribute them to all four corners of the nation. Excellent quality Kidico uses only top-quality printing substrates and inks to ensure that stickers look good – and stay stuck – for longer. Trendy designs Kidico designs have been created with both Mom and child in mind! They are trendy enough for moms to want to use them and cute enough to appeal to kids too! Kidico is able to ensure that sticker designs and characters are constantly being improved and added to. Constant innovation Instead of sticking – excuse the pun – to a handful of proven products and services, Kidico is constantly adding new, exciting customisable items to their range. What They’re All About Preparing the little ones for school, whether it’s the first day of big school or just the first day of a new year, is a pretty frantic occasion! With uniform and stationery costs climbing year on year, the last thing we want is for our kids to misplace these items while at school. Starting ‘big school’ is an exciting time for children, and with so much newness (as well as stuff to carry around in their brand-new school bags), we can’t blame them for mislaying their new school gear. Kidico ensures that your children’s belongings will always find their way back to you should they be misplaced for whatever reason. Bag tags, pencil labels, iron-on clothing labels, vinyl labels for lunchboxes and juice bottles, reward stickers, gift labels, personalised towels and more are available to order on the Kidico website. The Kidico Ordering Process Getting your hands on stunning school stickers and labels is easier than you might think! In fact, it takes only three steps: Navigate to the Kidico website (www.kidico.co.za) and browse through the available product categories. Be warned, you can seriously get carried away with everything on offer! Once you’ve found something you’d like, click on it. When the product page loads, you’ll find pricing information and dimensions. You’ll also see the Kidico customiser, where you get to add your custom text, pick the perfect font, and choose a graphic from a plethora of cute characters for girls and boys. Once you’re happy with your design (there’s a real-time preview tab), add your product to your cart and presto – you’re done! Once paid for, Kidico will deliver your custom stickers and labels to your front door. Kidico wants to simplify the customised sticker ordering process, without customers having to jump through hoops to complete their orders. For this reason, Kidico website visitors can order products and check-out as guests. Planning on ordering on a regular basis? You can sign up for a Kidico account and save time on having to fill in your details every time you order!

February 14, 2019

The What-We-Need-To-Breeze-Through-2019 for Busy Parents

You’re a parent. Got any spare time? No? We didn’t think so. Since we know you’re so busy with kids, school homework, school activities, feeding the family, work, home choewa, traffic, playdates and who knows what else, we decided to create a checklist of the tasks we think are most important for you to tackle at the beginning of the year. Let’s get straight to it: Life insurance Estate planning Preparing for end of tax season Start saving Make resolutions you’ll want to keep Holiday shopping for 2019 Life insurance The only sure things in life are: death, taxes and spaghetti sauce all over your son’s brand new white school shirt. All inevitable. And that’s why you need to prepare (for the first two, anyway). First and foremost, consider life insurance, either term or permanent. If you decide that term life insurance is a good fit for you, know that applying for coverage is simple and affordable, and it’s easier than ever to apply for coverage online. There’s really no time like the present.You can even try it out at Hero Life as we’ve designed term cover specifically for busy parents. Think about it. The holidays are over, but you can still provide a loving gift to the people who matter to you the most. What better gift to your family than a safety net that will help your family financially if something were to happen to you? Remember, you won’t be there to take care of them, but your legacy will change their lives fort the better. If you’ve done your parental duty and taken care of this already, great! Now’s a good time to check in and make sure your your policy details are up to date, and that the policy is easily located in case you need it. It’s also not a bad idea to check if your cover is enough. You can use the Hero Life tool available here for a quick check. Remember, there are lots of reasons why you need to update your cover amount over time — maybe you had another baby or your partner stopped working. It’s a good time to make sure all your affairs are in order. Speaking of… Estate planning If you haven’t written a will yet, make it your goal to get that done in 2019, both to ensure your end-of-life plans are executed according to your wishes and to potentially help your beneficiaries avoid a tax hit in the event something happens to you (translation: in case you die before you plan to). We have simple online solution that costs you nothing (really!) and you can try it out here. If you do have a will, check in and make sure everything is up to date and as per your wishes, and that your important paperwork is somewhere accessible to you and anyone else who might need it. Preparing for end of tax season In South Africa, tax season closes on the 28th of February every year and there are a few things you can do to ensure you have maximised on some tax incentives granted to you by the Taxman. If you are unsure, this is the time of year to schedule an appointment with your tax advisor. You have a window of time right now when you can contribute a maximum of R33 000 to a Tax-Free Savings account if you haven’t done so already. If you also haven’t maximised on the tax breaks by contributing to a retirement annuity, you have until the end of February 2019 to put some extra money away which could reduce that tax bill substantially. Don’t have a tax advisor and don’t know where to start? Try out TaxTim as they have a good source of some of the most frequently asked questions. Start saving There are really only two important things to remember when it comes to saving for a goal: don’t save what is left after spending but rather spend what is left after saving AND start saving now as compound interest is truly the 8th wonder of the world. It doesn’t matter what your goal is, whether it is to save up for a deposit on a new home or for your children’s university fund, there is no better time than now. Most people feel defeated before they even start as sometimes it just seems unattainable, but even if you start with only a small amount, JUST START. And if you need a bit of help, check this out. Make resolutions you’ll want to keep Look, we all know the reasons to get (or stay) healthy: You’ll live longer, live better, and you might even save money on your life insurance policy with some insurers. If you’re looking for specific things you can do right away as we begin 2019, consider these: – Go for a medical check-up – Quit smoking (again!) – Walk at least 30 minutes a day instead of watching Netflix – Reduce your alcohol intake – Make meals at home Start with small incremental goals and work your way up. Each of these will have an outsized impact on your health and happiness. Check in on your casa Houses and apartments, like the people who live in them, age. Some more gracefully than others. This is a good time of year to check in on things like air filters and smoke alarms. Consider setting seasonal calendar reminders in a shared calendar that you and your spouse have access to. Holiday shopping for 2019 Sorry. Too soon? 😉 Hero Life is a company that offers a free online Will, helps you to start saving for your kids’ education, and offers life insurance, designed specifically for young parents. Hero Life is an MMI Group initiative, and underwritten by Guardrisk Life Limited (Reg no 1999/013922/06), an authorised Financial Services Provider (FSP license number 76). This material has been prepared for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide financial advice. Visit herolife.co.za for

February 14, 2019

Creating resilient children who can weather life’s challenges

“Persistence and resilience only come from having been given the chance to work through difficult problems.” ~ Margaret Thatcher We live in a dynamic world full of changes and challenges. These challenges often come unexpected and with full force, rocking our everyday life and putting it in turmoil. The usual approach to this will be adapt or die, or face the challenges and make the best of it. It is necessary to create resilient children and students that can weather life’s challenges, without drowning in the storm. According to the Centre on the Developing Child at Harvard University, resilience is the ability to overcome serious hardship. Recent research has found that some children develop adequate resilience, while others do not, leaving them more vulnerable to long-term negative consequences from adversity. How can we ensure that the stress of moving, divorce, changing of school, changing in family-structure, does not overwhelm our students? In literature there are different views and concepts to use in building the self-esteem of a student. One of the Global Competencies is Self-Management skills, and that is what we need to teach the students. Unfortunately teaching them is not enough, but we need to encourage them and provide tools so that they will be able to handle changes and challenges in the best way possible. Strong, secure and responsive adult-child relationships. Merete Kropp, emphasised in the article, “Four ways to create resilient children”, that was published in the Washington post on 4 January 2018 that we must prioritize, build and maintain our relationship with our children by listening, talking and supporting them. We can provide them with enough time and space to develop self-regulation and executive function skills. Cultivate self-awareness. Before you can ever hope to siphon strength from life’s many challenges, you need a good base of self-awareness from which to operate. Without this, you can easily think that everything which happens to you is someone else’s fault, bad luck, or a result of some other factor. Furthermore, that if only things would fall into place, you’d be fine. Think of self-awareness as the foundation. According to Matt Valentine, in the article, “How to build resilience in the face of life’s challenges”, published on the website www.goalcoast.com on the 2nd of February 2018, you will be able to see clearly and therefore aren’t fooled by bias or skewed perceptions. The way we look at challenges will determine whether we will find strength in it. With enough self-awareness we will be able to change our perspective. It is important to guide our students in obtaining the skill of self-awareness so that they can handle possible challenges. Choices that allow a sense of control. When people are deprived of choices, they tend to feel powerless. Children are no exception. We strive to build reasonable levels of choice into our children’s lives by giving them agency over things they can control. We engage them and seek their input throughout the process of packing, saying goodbyes and beginning our new life, allowing them to make informed decisions whenever possible. The biggest concept is not only to learn them to make choices, but also to take responsibility for their choices. The saying “you live by your choices” is often used, but to learn children what it involves is of the utmost necessity. Community connections. We encourage our children to connect with others and confide in trusted people (teachers, mentors, friends) before, during and after the move. At Abbotts College, adaption to a new school also mean to a different way of thinking. The system allows us to mentor and support students to face their challenges in the new environment and to be resilient and not overwhelmed. We may not be able to raise our children in a protective bubble to shield them from all life’s hardships, but we are committed to equipping them with the positive protective factors they need to tip the resilience scale in their favour when they encounter inevitable difficulties in life. Resilient children can be encouraged to become more resilient. And children who seem to have less resilience can be helped to develop it. All it takes is a little confidence and motivation. By Bridget Grobler, Accounting and Business Studies teacher at Abbotts College Centurion

February 13, 2019

Breastfeeding Do’s And Don’ts: How To Lead A Healthy Breastfeeding Diet

The Do’s Of A Breastfeeding Diet The importance of leading a healthy diet whilst breastfeeding is really important. Therefore, knowing what you should do to help you lead a healthy life style is crucial. Read on below for the do’s of a healthy breastfeeding diet below! Do Drink A Lot (But Only The Good Stuff!) When you are lactating, you will be losing a lot of fluids on a daily basis. Therefore, you need to keep yourself hydrated. Always keep a water bottle on hand. Ensure you drink at least at least 8 – 10 glasses of water daily. Mix things up by enjoying other fluids such as natural fruit juices, caffeine free herbal teas and soups. Do Eat A Balanced Diet Eating a healthy, three meal a day diet is a great starting point for a lactating mum. Get in adequate amounts of vitamins from veggies and fruits, proteins from meats or protein rich vegetables, iron, and calcium. Remember, breastfeeding is calorie burning, demanding work! Therefore, give your body the best foot forward by giving it all the nutrients it needs in this time. Do Get Into The Habit Of Healthy Snacking Snacking will also be important during this time, especially when breastfeeding, make sure you have a handful of nuts or fruit when breastfeeding to keep your sugar levels up. Snacking throughout the day will also help your metabolism stay active, which will help in keeping your weight constant. The Don’ts Of A Breastfeeding Diet In the same right, there are a lot of things you shouldn’t do when breastfeeding. Take a look at what not to do when breastfeeding by reading on below now! Don’t Go On An Actual Diet Going on an actual diet is a terrible idea when breastfeeding. Firstly, limiting your daily calorie intake could this possibly affect your lactation frequency. Secondly, when your body begins to detox, the toxins which are being released could release themselves into your breastmilk. Don’t Avoid High Allergen Foods Contrary to popular belief, eating high allergen foods during breastfeeding could actually help your child in the long run. The introduction to these in small doses through breastmilk will help them build immunities to these allergens later in life. Don’t Binge On The Bad Stuff By this we don’t just mean alcohol and cigarettes, but high fats and sugars too. The first mentioned substances (alcohol and nicotine) will produce a toxin within your breastmilk. This will then be transferred to your baby through your milk. Regarding fats and sugars, these are nothing more than empty calories with little nutritional value. They will have little impact on your breastmilk and serve no purpose for the health of your child.

February 12, 2019

Three reasons why you really should print your photos

Epson, a renowned manufacturer of printing and visual imaging solutions, ran a survey on social media to find out more about people’s printing habits in the digital era as part of its campaign, #WishIdPrintedIt. Nearly half of the respondents (48%) said that they store their photographs on their smartphones, and a staggering 89% admitted to losing their photographs because they had had their phone stolen, their hard drive crashed, or they’d run out of digital storage space. “Epson’s #WishIdPrintedIt campaign highlights the importance of capturing your most treasured memories and putting them in tangible photograph form. We realised that, while digital is easy, so many people forget how precious it is to have real life, tangible photographs of your memories around your home, and how holding an actual photograph from a special occasion reminds you of a special moment or a loved one in ways that no digital image can,” says Timothy Thomas, consumer sales manager at Epson South Africa. There are many moments in life where you’re likely to find yourself wishing you’d printed your photos instead of storing them on your phone or on social media. Here are three reasons why you should print your photographs. Keep your memories safely stored Technology is not fool-proof: laptops and hard drives sometimes fail us. There are countless online forums with stories of people losing wedding and other priceless photos because they were accidentally deleted. There is also no guarantee that today’s computers will be able to read your photos in the future, unless you constantly download updates and modernise your digital archives. According to the #WishIdPrintedIt campaign survey, most people store between 1,000 and 4,999 unprinted photos on social media accounts, smartphones and cameras. It would be heart-breaking to lose all these precious memories in a digital drama, so print your photographs to avoid the hassle and heartache. Bring your memories to life There’s simply no substitute for a printed photo when it comes to immortalising life’s treasured memories. And while the exponential growth of smart phones and mobile technology over the last decade has meant a huge rise in photos being taken, many have become dependent on social media platforms to house and display their memories. This is confirmed in the survey results, in which the majority of people say that if anyone was looking for photos of them many years from now, they would likely find them on social media (45%). Why not surround yourself with those memories instead of leaving them to ‘collect dust’ in digital storage space? Picture frames are a great décor item for around the house, and by printing and organising your photographs into albums you can ensure easy access to your precious memories for years to come. Get in touch with your emotions Sometimes the people we love live far away or have passed on, and the feeling of not being able to see them or be reminded of the great memories we shared with them becomes overwhelming. Holding a high-quality print in your hands is so much more satisfying than seeing your photograph on a screen. It’s a tangible reminder of a memory you shared with someone special in your life, and a great way to bring you a smile when you need it. Social media and digital storage have their place, but they don’t hold a candle to the feeling of holding a printed image in your hands. Epson’s #WishIdPrintedIt campaign reminds you to save all the photos banished to dusty depths of digital storage. With the help of the EcoTank L1760 photo printer, Epson’s latest addition to the innovative EcoTank range, you can print up to 1,500 high-quality, borderless photos in the comfort of your own home. Find out more about the campaign at www.facebook.com/EpsonSouthAfrica.

February 12, 2019

A successful start to your (home) school year!

Home education is a wonderful, worthwhile journey, but knowing where to start can be overwhelming. So, whether you are just beginning this journey, or whether you are already a seasoned home schooler, here are a few tips to ensure success. Start with the why Why do you want to educate your children at home? Having a clear answer to this question will strengthen your commitment and writing down your reasons will not only help you stay focused on the ultimate outcome you want for your children, it will also remind you why you chose this path when things get tough. Consider your children As you start this journey, it’s important to consider each of your children; their strengths, weaknesses and interests. Keeping individual personalities and learning styles in mind when planning will make learning a lot easier for everyone. Be informed Before committing, ensure that you understand the law as it pertains to home education in South Africa – what home education means, how registration works, who the law applies to, and what records you are required to keep. Plan your schedule… Creating a daily or weekly schedule of what you intend to cover and where learning will take place will help, especially in the beginning. There is no one-size-fits-all plan when it comes to home education – the perfect schedule is the one that works for your family. …but don’t be too rigid Flexibility is one of the best features of home education. Children get sick, the power goes out, unexpected opportunities arise. Don’t stress if things don’t go as planned every now and again. The beauty of home education is you can catch up on missed work at another time; you just need to remain flexible. Make learning fun Studies have shown that when children are having fun, they often retain information better. So, when things get a little dull, find some fun activities to add to your lessons. Think picnics or hikes, visits to the zoo or science museum, and hands-on, messy experiments. This is a great way to bring concepts to life and give your children a new perspective on a particular topic. Be present It is important to be present – in body and mind – during ‘school’ time, so save your household chores for later. Being present is not only about ensuring that your children are working diligently, but will also help you forge a stronger bond. Take breaks When you or your children get frustrated, take advantage of the freedom that home education provides and take a break – for just a few minutes or even a few weeks! Whether it’s a trip to the playground or a trip to another country, breaks are not only great ways to relax and de-stress, but they also serve as fantastic learning opportunities. Find help Google is the home education parent’s friend. When you get stuck, you can always find help online. But the internet is not your only lifeline – you can also call in the help of a tutor. Click here to find a tutor in your area from Impaq’s nationwide network. Cut everyone – including yourself – a little slack Because the start of a new school year, or the transition from mainstream to home education, is a readjustment for everyone, allow for some bumps in the road. There are going to be good days and bad days. There may even be tantrums, tears and tempers…and not necessarily from the children! Home education is not always easy, and it comes with a unique set of challenges. In fact, simply adjusting to the freedom and flexibility of home education may be difficult at first. But it’s also extremely rewarding. You’ll learn as you go and, if you are committed and prepared, you (and your children) will be just fine. Good luck and remember to have fun! By Danielle Barfoot

February 11, 2019

Consider all the costs before committing to a tertiary course

Deciding to get a tertiary qualification is a big commitment, both financially and in terms of the time and effort you’ll need to invest to get your degree or diploma. According to a Department of Higher Education 2015 report 47.9% of South African university students do not complete their degrees. This high drop-out rate is not only due to poor academic performance but also because many students run out of money before they graduate, even with government funding for some students. Starting a course if you can’t afford to complete it, makes it much less likely you’ll ever go back and get the qualification. Whether you’re able to obtain a NASFAS loan or bursary or your parents or relatives apply for a loan to help you, here are some things to think about: Can you afford the university, technicon or college you want to attend? You may have your sights set on a particular institution, but it’s worth doing some research. First year university fees for a BA-degree in 2017 varied from R34 254 to R49 440 – a difference of over R15 000. Also, bear in mind that in South Africa only public institutions can call themselves universities. Private higher education institutions can offer exactly the same range of qualifications up to doctoral degree level, but may not use the term ‘university’ even though they are subject to the same regulation and quality assurance. It’s sensible to research all the options that are available before deciding which is the best for you. You can find a list of accredited institutions on the website of the South African Qualifications Authority and follow the Qualifications and Part Qualification link. Remember, the most expensive may not always be the best option for you. Other than tuition fees, what other costs should you consider? Remember that in addition to the course fees you’ll have to pay application and registration fees. Some bursaries and funders do not pay these costs. If the institution is far from home you’ll have to budget for food, accommodation and possibly even data or wifi connectivity. If you’re staying at home, you may be lucky enough not to have to worry about rent, food or data, but may need to pay for transport to and from campus. It’s a choice that television and radio personality, Carissa Cupido, faced. Her dream university was Rhodes, but because she could not afford the tuition and student accommodation, she chose UCT so she could stay at home and save on some costs. She says that even if you save on accommodation you will always have to pay for books, other course material, stationery and possibly a laptop or other electronic device. Most reputable institutions will provide information on what you’ll need, where to get it and what it will cost. If you can, it’s also worth speaking to students or lecturers to check this information and find out if you can buy second-hand books or other equipment you’ll need. Carissa was able to save money by downloading textbooks that were available online or finding second-hand copies. Her other tips for managing your finances while you’re studying are: Get a part-time job. Ideally look for options that fit your studies, such as tutoring school children or your fellow students. Keep an eye out for student discounts. Many shops have student specials and discount days. Take advantage of these whenever you can. Work out a budget and stick to it. Ask someone with experience to help figure out a weekly or monthly budget and then make sure you stay within it. To find out more about Carissa’s university experience click here: https://www.directaxis.co.za/direct-talk/how-to-save-money-as-a-student Are you getting value for money? There’s more to tertiary institutions than just academic life, particularly if you’re planning to spend three or more years of your life earning a qualification. If you can, visit the campus beforehand to get a feel for it and to check out the facilities. Ask about student support such as tutoring, guidance or career counselling. You won’t spend all your time studying, so also consider what non-academic activities and facilities are provided. Find out what sports are offered and if there are other clubs and societies that interest you. “Education can bring great rewards, but registering for a tertiary qualification is a big financial commitment,” says Marlies Kappers, head of marketing at DirectAxis. “That’s why you should think carefully about what you want to do and how the qualification will help you achieve this, before deciding on the best course and institution.” To find out more about funding your education visit: https://www.directaxis.co.za/imagine/education

February 10, 2019

GREAT RESULTS, NO UNI: STUDY OPTIONS IF YOU PERFORMED BETTER THAN EXPECTED

Many Matrics from the Class of 2018 currently find themselves in the fortunate position of having performed better than anticipated in their National Senior Certificate examination, achieving a Bachelor’s pass and qualifying for higher education access. But while they are now in a position to apply for further study, these prospective students need to ensure they do their homework before signing up with institutions still accepting applications for study in 2019, an expert says. “In particular, parents and Matriculants must ensure they don’t fall prey to institutions that are either not registered and accredited, or whose qualifications are not recognised,” says Nola Payne, Head of Faculty: Information and Communications Technology at The Independent Institute of Education, SA’s largest private higher education institution. “The good news however, is that there are still exciting study options available, particularly in the private sector, where good institutions have a strong focus on work-ready programmes,” she says. Payne says now is also a good time for even those prospective students already accepted into a programme, to consider whether they have chosen the right study path. If there are any doubts, they should have another look at available options rather than adopting a potentially expensive wait-and-see approach in their first year. “This coming month provides an opportunity for prospective students to investigate all their options and sign up for a quality qualification with an accredited institution, whether they left it too late, or performed better than envisioned. And those who have already signed up, should honestly assess whether they are excited about the degree on which they will soon embark, as well as the institution they will attend. “It is better to change course now, before spending time and money trying to make the wrong thing work, and becoming part of SA’s high first year dropout statistics,” says Payne. “Make sure that you are studying for the right reasons, and that your qualification will provide clear access to a specific career, whether it be a professional qualification such as accounting, law or teaching, or in a new exciting career path such as brand management, digital marketing, network engineering, game design and development, and application and cloud development. Don’t just apply for any degree at any institution for the sake of earning a qualification,” she says. Payne says South Africa’s single quality assurance system and one National Qualifications Framework means that any institution offering a registered and accredited qualification – whether public or private – is offering a qualification of equal standing. She says all registered and accredited higher education institutions – whether they be public universities or private – are registered by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). They are only registered if they have been accredited by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and registered by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). “To look up a qualification on the NQF, search for it on the SAQA website, or ask the institution for its SAQA identity number, which should be readily available. If the institution is recognised by the DHET and the programme is listed on the NQF, prospective students and their parents can be confident about the bona fides of any qualification they want to pursue,” says Payne. She says that as the world of work changes and evolves, new programmes are constantly developed in response to workplace demands. “This means there will regularly be new and more exciting options on offer compared to the past, and potentially fields of qualification that are more aligned with the career aspirations of prospective students. However, it is imperative that one does one’s homework carefully, because unscrupulous operators have become increasingly sophisticated in their methodology. Fraudsters are making the most of the often hard-to-understand language related to legitimate private higher education, which means that they are able to present offers that appear legitimate, but are not. “It is good to have more choices, but make sure you make smart decisions,” says Payne.

February 10, 2019

Find love in your language this Valentine’s Day with Cadbury P.S.

#FindLoveInYourLanguage Each Valentine’s period the pressure of expressing your love to those around you increases, especially when trying to find the right words or gift that will convey your thoughts and feelings. Luckily, Cadbury P.S. has launched a limited-edition range of chocolate bars that will help you say “I LOVE YOU” in the different languages of South Africa, including sign language. These limited-edition message bars can be shared across the country this Valentine’s season, offering South Africans the chance to find love in their own language, or to learn how to say I LOVE YOU in another. On top of that, Cadbury P.S. will be expressing even more love on social media through the MZANSI LOVE SONGS campaign. Help Cadbury P.S. write the lyrics to the most heartfelt love songs this Valentine’s Day, that you could share with your loved ones and the rest of South Africa. All you have to do is write and submit your lyrics on https://www.cadbury.co.za/psbar/ps/mzansi-love-songs.This song can be for your sister, bestie, bae or mom. Cadbury P.S. is looking for song lyrics that are truly unique and personal! If you are struggling to write those lyrics, don’t worry, Cadbury P.S. has you covered, as you can select and share a song in your language that has already been created, just go to https://www.cadbury.co.za/psbar/ps/mzansi-love-songs. Submit your lyrics before the 8th February 2019, songs are limited, so don’t miss out! T’s&C’s apply. “Cadbury P.S. loves helping people connect and express their feelings in personal, yet simple ways” says Grant van Niekerk, Mondelez SA Category Lead for Chocolate. “And the fact that they can now say ‘I LOVE YOU’ in their own language is something the brand is very proud to share and we hope this helps each and every one of our fans express a little bit more love this Valentines.” So, whether romantic or platonic, simply gift a Cadbury P.S. bar this Valentine’s to say “I love you” in your language. For more information visit PS Website, or @CadburyPS on Facebook page or follow us on Twitter on @CadburyPSBar or on Instagram @cadburyps_bar #FindLoveInYourLangauage

February 9, 2019

Why we should be testing our food for nitrates and GreenTest’s top tips for summertime healthy eating

Summer is here, and the holiday season is approaching with the promise of lots of outdoor fun and relaxation time. As we start to anticipate fun in the sun, lazy afternoon cricket games on the lawn with the kids and sharing cold slices of juicy watermelon around the pool; these happy musings are imbued with the expectancy of our glowing health. However, as we all know the good health of ourselves and our loved ones can never be taken for granted. There’s ever-increasing awareness that taking responsibility for our health is multi-faceted, and latest scientific research is continually alerting us to nutritional and environmental issues that we need to get to grips with to safeguard our families. We can thank latest technology solutions that this is becoming far easier to do for ourselves. Recently launched food safety device, GreenTest shows us that taking our health into our own hands does not have to be difficult and demanding at all. The range of lightweight, easy to use, award-winning nitrate detectors empower us to make better food choices in the moment. As Lila Bruk, a registered dietitian points out, South African consumers are becoming far more conscious not just of the nutritional value of the foods we eat, but of food safety issues as well. “With lifestyle diseases on the rise, it is becoming increasingly important for consumers to be able to test their own food so that we can not only choose nourishing foods but manage our future health and well-being. The ability to test nitrate and nitrite levels in our own food is significant and empowering for South African consumers.” Why we should be testing our food for nitrates Nitrates and nitrites are naturally-occurring compounds containing nitrogen. Nitrates are essential for plant growth and occur in differing amounts in most of our plant-based foods. Nitrites are typically used as a preservative in smoked and processed meats. At low levels, nitrates which are converted into nitrites once ingested, are generally harmless in the human body. However, at high levels, nitrates and nitrites are toxic to humans and animals. Higher concentrations of nitrates in food, especially in meat cooked at high temperatures, also pose the risk of the formation of nitrosamines which have been associated with various health risks, including some cancers. The International Agency for Research on Cancer lists ingested nitrate or nitrite ‘under conditions that result in endogenous nitrosation’ as ‘probably carcinogenic to humans’ (Group 2A). Concerns about nitrate levels present in our food have been growing over the past decades because of ever-increasing use of nitrate-based fertilisers in the conventional farming sector. Nitrates and nitrates are water-soluble and also leach into the ground. It stands to reason that we are likely to be consuming way more nitrates than previous generations, and this has raised concerns that we are at risk for nitrate toxicity and the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines. The World Health Organisation (WHO) specifies that the acceptable daily intake of nitrate is 3.65 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day, but up until now there’s been no way for the consumer to monitor this. GreenTesting your summer fruits GreenTest devices, launched in South African by food safety company, Alvarita provide an accurate reading of the nitrate levels in 64 different kinds of commonly eaten fruits and vegetables in a matter of seconds. Some models also test the nitrate levels of meat, fish and water. “The unique rapid analysis feature provides a green, orange or red result that informs you whether you can go back for more; should moderate your intake or rather just avoid a food for the sake of your health,” says Alvarita CEO, Damian Michael. “With GreenTest the power to make truly healthy food choices is conveniently in your hands.” GreenTest’s top tips for summertime healthy eating: As the days get hotter, it’s the ideal time for cooler eating. Focus on crisp salads full of fresh ingredients; swap dollops of heavy, starchy veg for light and tasty crunchy greens, and prioritise fresh fruit and veg as the premium snack options Upscale and diversify the ubiquitous red meat braai by creating equally delicious vegetarian, chicken or fish braai options. Actively reduce your nitrate intake by substituting more yummy, quick and easy plant-based foods for hot dogs, as well as cold and smoked processed meats Tip the scales in favour of fruit and veg at every meal – or at least make sure that half your plate is covered with salads and non-starchy veg. Shifting to more and more plant-based food options is a real investment in your future health. GreenTest your fruit and veg to keep track of your daily nitrate intake Yes, it’s the holidays, but still keep the treats in perspective. It’s okay to enjoy occasional treat food without feeling guilty, after all it’s the holidays and treats abound. Who wants to feel deprived when everyone else is indulging? It’s okay to occasionally enjoy rich or sugary foods; just keep them in balance. Serve yourself smaller portions of your favourite treats and take the time to savour each bite. Mindful eating increases pleasure and satisfaction while keeping you finely attuned to your body’s real needs and comfort zone Walking on sunshine – Daily physical activity goes hand in hand with healthy food choices. The summer holiday provides plenty of opportunity to get up and moving for a minimum of 30 minutes each day. Long, sunshiny days are ideal for family bike rides, hikes and other fun physical activities

February 9, 2019

CREATIVE PLAY HELPS CHILDREN GROW

Have you ever watched children at play? Have you seen and heard the wonderful things they say and do to make whatever they are doing fun for them? It is a joy to behold – and can make for some great humour. Children are natural innovators with powerful imaginations. Creativity offers a wide range of intellectual, emotional and even health benefits. Why is creativity important? Creativity should not be underestimated. Creativity helps teach cognitive skills such as mathematics and scientific thinking. Creative thinking involves imagination, basic use of the scientific method, communication, physical dexterity and exertion, problem posing, problem solving, making interpretations, and using symbols that help with future literacy skills. According to article on Loveplayandlearn.com, they explain through the following points why creativity is important to foster in a child. 1. Creativity promotes emotional development Creative expression provides many opportunities for expressing emotions and working through those emotions to gain relief and understanding of them. To help your child do this you could encourage a child who is angry to draw or paint a picture of how they are feeling. You could play varied types of music that invoke different emotions and then ask your child how the music makes them feel. 2. Creativity promotes social development In young childhood, creativity is often a social act. Singing, dancing, puppetry, and theatre all teach the child to pay attention to others as well as develop an understanding of social rules like give and take, and cooperation. Have a dance party with other children or have them put on a play or puppet show with their friends. 3. Creativity supports physical development Working with art materials such as crayons, scissors, paintbrushes, play dough and paint promote fine motor skills and eye-hand coordination. To promote gross motor skills try dancing, mural painting, theatre, or large construction projects like building with boxes. 4. Creativity supports language and literacy development By engaging in creative play or projects, children can learn new vocabulary as well as learn to associate pictures with words. As mentioned above try playing different kinds of music and creating a conversation with the child about how it makes them feel, this will boost language expression and understanding. Expose your child to plenty of instruments and talk to them about their favourite one and what sound each instrument makes. Ask them open-ended questions about their art work such as “how did you feel when you drew this” or “how does this painting make you feel?” 5. Creativity promotes cognitive development Creative activities help children to develop attention skills and cognitive learning. Their imagination is in full use and encourages them to come up with new ideas and to think outside of the box since creativity involves exploration and problem solving. Through creative activities such as playing with play dough, children can learn pre-math skills such as the concept of less and more. When children match shapes or colours in their creations, they are learning the math skill one to one correspondence. Creative activities can help them learn about grouping and classification, physical properties of objects, and cause and effect. Painting and play dough are all great ways to explore these concepts. Creativity is the freest form of self-expression. There is nothing more satisfying and fulfilling for children that to be able to express themselves openly and without judgment. The ability to be creative, to create something from personal feelings and experiences, can reflect and nurture a child’s wellbeing. Pay attention to creative play, plan for it and encourage it! By Julia Martin – Grade 00 Teacher Trinityhouse Pre-primary Randpark Ridge

February 8, 2019

Listen Up! What’s the big deal with childhood hearing loss?

Hearing is one of the most important senses. Through hearing we learn how to communicate with others, we experience the joy of music, the excitement of laughter, the symphony of nature and the bustling sounds of the city. Hearing also protects us, it alerts us to approaching danger and keeps us connected to the outside world. According to the World Health Organization, about 466 million people have disabling hearing loss, 34 million of these are children. Hearing loss is the most prevalent birth defect and every day 17 babies are born in South Africa with some degree of hearing impairment – half of which have no known risk factors for hearing impairment. In the past, majority of children who were born with congenital hearing loss were only identified at about age 2 when they were not reaching their speech and language milestones. Research has demonstrated that children who are diagnosed with hearing loss and have the appropriate intervention by 6 months of age, will have speech and language milestones comparable to that of a normal hearing child by age three years. What are the causes of hearing loss in children? Congenital Hearing Loss This means that the hearing loss is present at birth. Congenital hearing loss is either caused by genetic or non-genetic factors. Some non-genetic factors include: Birth complications, including the presence of herpes, rubella cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis or another serious infection, lack of oxygen or the requirement of a blood transfusion for some reason. Premature birth. Babies that have a birth weight of less than 1.3 kilograms or that require certain life-sustaining drugs for respiration due to prematurity are at risk for hearing loss. Complications with the Rh factor in the blood A nervous system or brain disorder. The use of ototoxic medication by the mother during pregnancy. Ototoxic medications are not usually illicit substances – medications like various antiobiotics Maternal diabetes. Drug or alcohol abuse by the mother or smoking during pregnancy. Genetic hearing loss means that either the gene for hearing loss was inherited from the parents or that the child presents with a genetic illness commonly associated with hearing loss. Acquired hearing loss A child with acquired hearing loss is not born with a hearing loss but rather acquires the hearing loss due to one of many factors. Factors include: A perforated eardrum Infections like meningitis, measles, mumps or whooping cough Taking ototoxic medications A serious head injury Exposure to loud noise, causing noise-induced hearing loss Untreated or frequent otitis media (ear infections) What signs and symptoms should I look out for in my child? When a child does not turn his/her head towards a sound, especially a loud sound When a child frequently touches or pulls one or both ears When a child reacts to some but not all sounds When a child turns their head upon seeing you, but not when their name is called from outside their field of vision Does my child have difficulty following instructions Does my child ask for instructions to be repeated When a child has delayed speech and language development. If the answer to any of the following is “no”, then your child may have delayed speech and language development: Is my child using single words such as “dada” and “mama” by the age of 1? Is my child using 2-word sentences by the age of 2? Is my child using 3-word sentences by the age of 3? Is my child using understandable 4-5 word sentences by the age of 4? When should I test my child’s hearing? Most private hospitals and some government hospitals have audiologists who assess the babies hearing soon after they are born. Generally, this is an optional service so it is a great idea to opt in for the screening. The audiologists use an OAE (Oto-acoustic emissions) or an AABR (Automated Auditory Brainstem Response) machine. The test generally takes a few minutes and requires no response from your child. The Audiologist will be able to tell you if your child’s hearing is normal or if further testing is required. Even if you don’t feel like your child has a hearing loss it is important to have your child’s hearing tested once a year much like testing their eyesight! What happens if my child has a hearing loss? If your child is diagnosed with a hearing loss the Audiologist will guide you through the process. Depending on the cause, degree and configuration of the hearing impairment, the audiologist will either refer your child for further medical treatment or recommend hearing aids and perhaps a further evaluation for a cochlear implant. Your child will also require intensive speech and language therapy in order to catch up to his/her developmental milestones. The later a child is fitted with amplification the poorer the prognosis is for the child. Early intervention is of the utmost importance, we live in a an incredible time where even children with a profound hearing loss can have access to sound again and become integrated into society with ease. Be sure to contact a qualified Audiologist, if you would like to have your child’s hearing screened.

February 8, 2019

Everything you Need To Know About The 2pc Twistshake Feeding Spoons Set

The 2pc Twistshake feeding spoons set is something every mom needs in her cupboard! This great little product has been designed specifically to benefit both the parent and the child. But everything you need to know about this product (and the brand behind it) lies just below. Read on now to see why you should consider introducing the Twistshake line into your child’s eating routine now. A Bit About The 2pc Twistshake Feeding Spoons Set The 2pc Twistshake feeding spoons set is a truly unique feeding accessory for all babies. The innovative two piece set comes with two different utensils, each serving their own purpose along the feeding journey of your baby’s life. These are great for children aged four months and up and make for the perfect starter utensil set. The grips of each ladle are straight and have been designed to incorporate grooves and textures to aid the grasp of each spoon. Furthermore, the spoons are made from child friendly materials, including; PP and TPE plastic. The spoons contain no BPA, BPS and BPF, making them free from toxins and safe for your child to use. Above all, these spoons are dishwasher safe, making them easy to use and simple to clean. Why Twistshake Is The Product For You Twistshake is the brilliant company behind a line of great child feeding products. They design all of their products with one main customer in mind; your baby! No harmful materials are used in the construction of any of their products, ensuring your little one will not come into contact with any toxins. Above that, all of their designs were created to fit little hands, meaning your baby will easily be able to use these products themselves. Give your baby a sense of independence by allowing them to start feeding themselves with these incredible spoons!

February 7, 2019

Values in the Classroom

As technological advancements have swept through classrooms in the last decade, the way in which children are taught has changed, shifting towards a modernized approach. At Capriccio! Arts Powered Schools, we acknowledge the numerous benefits of technology in the classroom and create a pro-tech learning environment. We are however of the opinion that value-based learning should form an integral part of the foundation upon which children are educated. Our uniquely designed curriculum fosters the cognitive, emotional, physical, social and artistic development of little ones and young children. As such, our specialized enrichment programmes focus on preparing children for life by instilling within them important values, which form one of the cornerstones of our learners’ educational journey. Combining elements of Montessori, Reggio Emilio and Waldorf, we have developed a number of unique enrichment programmes aimed at: Instilling values like honesty, integrity and sincerity by means of story-telling, games, puppeteering and role play. Introducing grace, courtesy, etiquette and social skills, reinforcing learning through role play, stories, puppet theatre and other media. Preparing our children for life via practical lessons learnt from the Bible. Our Christian ethos provides a consistent foundation upon which is built to instil family values – Practical lessons from the Bible form part of equipping our learners for a meaningful life. For more information on our integrated, innovative and creative approach to providing wholesome and well-rounded pre-primary and primary education, visit: www.artspreschool.co.za.

February 7, 2019

Ways to model social involvement for the next generation

Social involvement also known as social participation refers to one’s degree of participation in a certain community or society. To model social involvement, means to directly teach children, learners or students to act responsible within their social environment. Social responsibility is of the utmost importance. We as adults need to actively show the next generation, how to be social responsible and act with responsibility towards their community, their society as well as their environment. By engaging learners and students in social projects, where they can experience something of the world out there, we show them that every little bit is useful. Talking about social involvement doesn’t mean to do 67 minutes once a year and then it is done and over with. It means to be socially aware and be actively part of the society within which we life and serve. Furthermore, it contains the projects and schemes where we can be involved, as well as the identification of shortfalls where we can still contribute. Social involvement for the next generation, will involve way more than helping the poor and providing blankets and food for the cold and hungry. Means to act out social involvement become scarce with every day passing, which implicates that the new generation, should not only learn to be involved but also to be innovative in their involvement. Social participation is critical even in communities led by civic, philanthropic and other senior leaderships in communities… What is very important is that the community take ownership of their own society and environment. By involving the next generation in certain projects, they can learn the necessary skills as well as try their hand at projects under the watchful eye of experienced people. That will also ensure that they are tutored to not only participate but to participate with responsibility. Without true community ownership, collective impact efforts will not be sustainable and lasting. Beneficiaries give the work its context and their involvement accelerate the desired change. Mary Meehan, cultural scientist (The next generation, what matters to Gen We. www.forbes.com. 11 August 2016) describes the new generation as kids moving through those teen years right now; it’s the generation after the Millennials. She also identifies them with the following characteristics: Socially Just, Not Just Social – Although they do not socialise a lot, they have another set of values, protecting themselves and their friends against unfairness of others. Wired and Worldly – We all know that teens are glued to their tiny, personal screens (much like many of us). Sure, it can be annoying and sometimes dangerous, but this is the way it is. Moreover, the implications of being wired to the world go beyond their constant contact with friends. Technological innovation has given the new generation a form of independence older generations never knew. It allows them to be out in the world exploring, learning, meeting, and forming communities all on their own, with no physical boundaries. Wary, Worry – Many teens report feeling stressed by the demands of school. The pressure is on to do well and get into a good college. Social pressures are exacerbated by social media, the increased divorce rate and the general change in people’s sense of safety and security. These situations increase their worries and often lead to depression. Gigging the Days Away – Many reports show that the new generation leans towards career and financial stability but the path to get there is something different from what other generations knew. They look at a career differently and the way to get to success also uses another formula. If we look at these characteristics, it is important to realise that we need modern and innovative way in which to involve the new generation in social participation. Let them use the ends to their needs, like social media and technology to embrace participation in future social projects. Let them develop their social skills amongst their peers and in the meantime, they get more people involved. Give them the steering wheel, and while keeping a watchful eye on them, teach them how to drive into the future. _____________________________________________ By Bridget Grobler, Accounting and Business Studies teacher at Abbotts College Centurion

February 6, 2019

TODDLER APPROPRIATE CHORES – IT BULIDS CONFIDENCE

When we are born, each of us is entirely reliant on others and therefore we can say that childhood is then an apprenticeship that gradually prepares us for adulthood. From infancy, children understandably reach out to the world; beginning with their mother and father. As that bond is cemented, children seek more triumphs and competence. As a parent and educator, I know that living in the 21st Century, boast a demanding and dynamic lifestyle; at home and in the classroom, therefore it is important to instil a sense of ownership and pride within our children from a young age. By assigning responsibilities (chores), we are teaching them to build their self-esteem, teaching self-help skills and encouraging their independence so that they too will one day be able to cope with the demands of society. By asking our toddler to help with tasks not only ”lifts the load” as a parent or a teacher, but the child will learn empathy by sharing responsibilities and become more self-confident when they accomplish their assigned task, particularly with little or no guidance. Chores are great tools to establish routine, which may reduce opportunities for confusion or disagreements amongst siblings or other toddlers if in a classroom environment. Remember, each child develops at his own pace, so some children may be ready for chores that have been assigned, while others will only be able to perform tasks with support. Start with one or two chores; it is important to only start with a few tasks at a time. You definitely don’t want to overwhelm your toddler or make them feel pressured. The main aim in giving your toddler chores is for them to feel capable, not overwhelmed. As children approach chores, it’s guaranteed they’ll do things differently, messier than you! But as children gain finesse through trial and error, they’ll achieve mastery and build pride. Don’t expect perfection or correct the work that the child has done. There is plenty of time for that later when the child is more competent at the task and has more confidence. What you want to focus on now is rewarding the child’s effort and your patience and gentle guidance will mean a lot. Addition to simple chores, toddlers should also include attending to their own cleanliness, grooming, clothing and toys. The below mentioned chores are sure to assist you in fostering an independent and confident toddler. Pick up toys and books and put them in their suitable place (you must first assign clear places for your child’s belongings) Put dirty clothes in the laundry basket – this can be done after bath, in the morning, and before bed-time. Wipe the table after meals- not only is this an easy task, but they will love doing it! Dusting and wiping- make it fun! Purchase a bath hand puppet to use when dusting or wiping to “collect all the dust bunnies.” Unload the groceries- after a grocery trip let your toddler hand you items out of the grocery bags while you pack it away. Help set the table- just be sure to only give your toddler safe, unbreakable objects. Let them help you make the bed- do this chore together and squeeze in a little bonding while you work. Clean up spills and messes with paper towel, sponge or a child-sized broom. Water plants- for this chore, provide measuring cups and a bucket of water and then let your toddler delight in pouring it into the pot and feeding the plant. Sweeping- Use a toddler size broom and dust pan. While this is one chore that generally creates more work for you, they love helping and sweeping the dirt back and forth. Pushing buttons- If there are buttons that need pushing let your toddler do it – elevators, dishwasher, microwave, washer, dryer, even the coffee maker. Toddlers LOVE buttons! This chore that isn’t quite a chore is still teaching little ones to follow directions. It also teaches them that they are capable, they can do it, and when possible, you will let them. Help in the kitchen- there are so many ways toddlers can help in the kitchen from stirring to pouring to washing fruit. Chores given to toddlers will enable your toddler to contribute to the family, care for themselves and their personal belongings. It is a standard plan in an apprenticeship for adulthood! Written By: Elizabeth Steenkamp (Principal of Junior Colleges Castillian)

February 6, 2019

Why adoption is a problem in South Africa

As 2018 drew to a close, the war of attrition over South African adoption took an ugly turn. In an unambiguous act of aggression, the government added a last-minute amendment to the Children’s Act making any payment for national or intercountry adoptions illegal. This includes professional fees for social workers, psychologists and attorneys, donations and even the recouping of expenses. The amendment’s stated goal is to make adoptions more accessible. But will it, or will it make adoption the sole domain of overburdened, inexperienced Department of Social Development social workers, and result in an end to adoptions in South Africa? Traditionally, making and amending laws is a painstakingly slow and careful process, so it isn’t a good sign when lawmakers add a last-minute amendment to an act, especially not after five months of intensive consultation with interested parties. It smacks of an ambush, more so when it involves something as critical as the fees that can be charged for adoptions, and who can participate in the process. The three amendments were added without consultation just prior to the publishing of the amendments in the Government Gazette in late October, and the adoption community was not told about the additions until the National Child Protection Forum meeting in late November 2018, just a week before the end of the public consultation process. Although they seem innocuous on paper, if passed, the amendments would make it illegal for anyone to “give or receive, or agree to give or receive, any consideration, in cash or in kind, for the adoption of a child”. This includes social workers, psychologists, attorneys, therapists, organs of the state and the child protection organisations involved with national or intercountry adoptions. The only exception would be biological mothers, who would still be able to receive compensation for necessary expenses. It would also “prohibit the rendering of professional services in connection with the adoption of a child by a lawyer, psychologist or a member of any other profession”. The stated motivation for these amendments is to make adoptions “more accessible”. It is a very sympathetic argument which is compelling for many people. But the question is, will making the payment for adoptions illegal make adoptions more accessible? And even more pertinent, is increased accessibility even necessary? The answer is complex. While it is true that adoptions aren’t currently accessible to all, it is not for the reasons stated by the Department of Social Development. The department has long contended that adoptions are elite and exorbitantly expensive. But extensive studies have shown no evidence to support these claims. Adoptions fees are carefully regulated by social development itself, and while the average cost of adoption, between R12,000 and R15,000, is too high for the poor, social workers adjust their fees to the means of the individual. In particular, child protection organisations that receive subsidies for the Department of Social Development are known to provide very inexpensive adoptions, with some parents noting that their adoption cost as little as a few thousand rand. Others were free. The assertion that cost is the main issue preventing accessibility is therefore inaccurate. Instead, adoptions are currently inaccessible to the poor for two main reasons. The first relates to the social workers currently practising adoption. Adoptions are complex, technical and highly regulated. This is essential to protect children but has limited the number of practitioners in the industry. At present, there are 59 adoption social workers in private practice and 93 designated and accredited child protection organisations (DCPOs) mandated to provide professional adoption services nationally. But the number is seen as insufficient to provide adoption services across the country. In addition, while many of the organisations involved with adoption have posts that are subsidised by the government, it has been well documented that the department is notoriously bad at paying subsidies sufficiently and on time. Surviving in the adoption industry is already challenging. Moreover, accessibility has been compromised by an omission in the Children’s Act of 2005. For an inexplicable reason, the original act prohibited Department of Social Development social workers from performing adoptions. This is the chief reason for limited accessibility. Crucially, however, this concern has already been addressed. Once passed, another proposed amendment to the Children’s Act, this one a thoroughly negotiated change, will allow appropriately skilled Department of Social Development social workers to perform adoptions. The industry has welcomed this move and has been mentoring and training department social workers in preparation for the amendment being ratified. According to the National Adoption Coalition, if properly managed, the inclusion of department social workers in the practice of adoption could make adoptions more accessible. But if fees become illegal, it will have the opposite effect. Given the inadequacy and irregularity of subsidies, child protection organisations are reliant on fees to survive, as are private social workers for whom it is a sole source of income. If fees become illegal, most, if not all current social workers will have to stop practicing. In their absence, only the department social workers will be able to complete adoptions (using taxpayer’s money). Department social workers are, however, understandably inexperienced at adoptions. Plus, it is common knowledge that the department is under-resourced and over-worked. It cannot cope with its current load. The likely outcome will be fewer opportunities for adoption, not greater accessibility. And it isn’t just social workers that will be affected. Adoption screening will become impossible for many, because psychologists and medical professionals will no longer be able to charge for providing psychological and medical assessments during screening. In addition, medical professionals and therapists would not be able to assess children prior to declaring them adoptable. Many of these services are already provided free to adoptable children. But the organisations providing these services exist on donations which, if associated with adoption, would also be illegal. Disturbingly, another implication of the amendments is that intercountry adoptions would probably cease. There are no government subsidies for intercountry adoptions and services are currently provided by 10 designated and accredited child protection

February 5, 2019

2019 World Read Out- loud Day

There is huge potential in South Africa to turn our literacy crisis around so that reading becomes a powerful tool, to tackle inequality and poverty. As Nelson Mandela said, ‘Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.’ While education may be the most powerful weapon, reading aloud and storytelling are integral building blocks in learning. ‘The fire of literacy is created by the emotional sparks between a child, a book and the person reading.’ This is why NGO, Nal’ibali, focusses on reading-for enjoyment. Nal’ibali is built on the simple logic that a well-established culture of reading can be the tipping point for education in South Africa. Part of this ongoing drive to encourage South Africans to read is Nal’ibali’s World Read Aloud Day (WRAD) initiative. Call to action As the biggest literacy drive in the country, WRAD seeks to draw attention to the importance of reading aloud to children in their mother tongue. Every year, thousands of South Africans join in the celebration. They are doing it for their children, their language and their futures. This year Nal’ibali is asking those who are already readers to not only read the story commissioned for WRAD 2019 with their children on the day, but to reach out to their networks and encourage others do the same and be part of the South Africa’s literacy solution. World Read Aloud Day is being celebrated on Friday, 1 February 2019. A new story is born Jade Jacobsohn, Nali’bali’s Managing Director, says, ‘Every year we commission a brand-new story and translate it into all 11 official SA languages. Then we encourage adults and caregivers across the country, to join us in reading it aloud to children on WRAD. This year’s story, ‘Where Are You?’ is written by Ann Walton, a well known South African author and illustrator of children’s books. ‘The story can be downloaded from our website from Monday, 21 January. We’d like to encourage South Africans to register that they will be reading aloud and to share pictures of their reading sessions online.’ Why read aloud? Most of the teaching that happens in a child’s early years is oral. Being able to recognise and understand a wide pool of words, better equips them to learn and succeed in the classroom. ‘The reading of a story out loud not only shows children the value of books but starts discussions, builds bonds between the reader and the audience and motivates children to learn to read and enjoy books beyond their current reading ability,’ says Jacobson. Remember to tell us you’re reading ‘Last year, with the help of our network partners and the public, we managed to read to over a million children,’ says Jacobsohn. ‘In 2019, our aim is to beat that record and reach 1.5 million!’ In order to monitor the success of WRAD, Nal’ibali asks that all participants log their reading activities on its website: https://nalibali.org/WRAD-2019 So what’s happening on WRAD? Apart from promoting the ‘Where Are You?’ story on digital and social media platforms, Nal’ibali’s network of partners, schools project – Story Powered Schools, Literacy Mentors and FUNda Leader volunteers will be reading the story aloud at reading clubs and community centres across the country. With the support of the Department of Basic of Education, thousands of school children and educators will be joining the celebration too. A special event will be held on the morning of the 1st February 2019, at the inspirational Sandton Library, with 200 children from Soweto and Alexandra. The event will be attended by this year’s campaign ambassador, children’s author and social activist, Lebohang Masango and is supported by the Department of Education and its Read to Lead campaign. Masango will give a special multilingual reading of ‘Where Are You?’ and engage the attending children and adults about the importance of reading aloud. She says, ‘Reading to your children is important because the benefits will follow them for their entire life. Not only is it great for bonding but you are also expanding their vocabulary, their knowledge, their imaginations, their ability to focus and confidently articulate their ideas out loud. Reading is truly the gift that keeps on giving!’ Copies of her own book, ‘Mpumi’s Magic Beads’, will be given to each child to further encourage them to keep reading. Community walk During the week of 21 January, a Nal’ibali mascot and volunteers with take to the streets within various communities to promote WRAD while handing out story cards. If you would like to join the Nal’ibali’s World Read Aloud Day: 1. Visit www.nalibali.org or www.nalibali.mobi to download the official story in any of the languages. 2. Pledge the number of children you will be reading to. 3. Share pictures of read-aloud sessions on the Nal’ibali’s Facebook and Twitter platforms: @NalibaliSA, or use the hashtag #WRADChallenge2019 on the day.

February 1, 2019

Time-Efficient Tips for Self-Care for New Parents

There’s a reason you need to put your oxygen mask on first on a plane: In the event of a crash, you have to keep your strength to keep taking care of your little ones. That same concept applies to your life as a parent as well. You have to take care of yourself to avoid a serious crash. However, fitting in self-care while caring for a new baby can be challenging. If you’re a new parent struggling for the time for self-care, here are some hacks you need to know. Get Rid of Gyms and Exercise at Home Instead If you are caring for an infant, getting to the gym can be impossible. Not to mention, many gyms may not be accessible if you need a wheelchair. But maintaining a regular exercise routine is essential for keeping your energy levels up and can even help you manage stress. That can be a real lifesaver for new parents, so instead of going out to the gym, bring your workouts home. Setting up a home gym is fairly simple as long as you have some key pieces of equipment. A yoga mat, some weights, and a few resistance bands will help you stay in shape between diaper changes and naps. If you want to add equipment tailored to your needs and abilities, you can also look into accessible gym equipment to use in your at-home workouts. An arm or FES bike can be major upgrades to any home gym and give you the edge you need. Do Some Healthy Meal Prep One Day a Week Sticking to a healthy, balanced diet is enough of a challenge when you’re only caring for yourself. Add a new baby to the mix and you’re lucky to have time to eat at all. All the stress and time constraints of being a new parent can cause you to reach for convenient processed foods and snacks. While those starchy foods may fill your tummy, they will do nothing to replenish your energy. Fast food, breakfast cereals, and energy drinks are known to drain your energy levels, leaving you feeling more tired. To avoid crashing during the week, try to set aside some time on the weekend to meal prep healthier options. If you don’t have the time to cook, you could also look into meal delivery services to keep nutritious food in your belly and loads of energy you need in your body. Most services provide fresh ingredients, and you should be able to find one that offers healthier (or quicker) foods to prepare during the week. Spend Some Time Outdoors with Your Little One We tend to shy away from spending time in the sun, but being outside can be so good for your overall mood and health. For both adults and children, getting outside during the day lowers feelings of stress and enhances overall mental health. If you start feeling a bit down, try stepping outside for a few minutes. Take your coffee outdoors or take a walk with your baby. If you’re worried about taking your infant outside with you, you really shouldn’t! Experts agree that spending time outside is also beneficial for your baby, so long as you take steps to keep your little one safe. Pick up a hat and some essential sun gear to protect that delicate skin, but be mindful of not dressing your baby too warm when it’s sunny outside. You could pick up a stroller with a shade so you can go on outdoor walks and take your baby along for the ride. So much of parenting is about putting your baby’s needs first. The truth is, however, you cannot keep taking care of your little one if you are not taking the time to care for yourself. Self-care is essential for new parents. So, make sure you put your self-care oxygen mask on first so you can put the rest of your energy into caring for your new baby’s needs.

January 30, 2019

Chicco Baby Moments Bath Range

As Chicco say, “wherever there’s a baby, there’s the best scent in the world!” – and nothing can be more true after having a bath with the new Chicco Baby Moments bath line. Hypo-allergenic, clinically tested, paraben free and loved around the world, the Baby Moments bath ranges include a variety of products that are all created with a no-tears formula to make the bath time experience even more enjoyable for babies. Including Bath Shampoo, Gentle Body Wash & Shampoo combination, the Baby Moments soap and a foam bath, all products are ideal for daily care of baby’s delicate skin and fine hair. Full lines are available at various baby products retailers as well as www.takealot.com and www.loot.co.za.

January 30, 2019

CHICCO RELEASES THE AWARD-WINNING BABY HUG 4-IN-1

Chicco, leaders in baby products for over 60 years, announce the all new worldwide first – the Baby Hug 4-in-1. Distributed by Prima Baby in South Africa, Chicco are fore-runners in innovation and function when it comes to baby furniture, juvenile hard lines such as travel systems, prams and car seats as well as all other nursery essentials. For this reason, the world has gone crazy for the latest in evolutionary baby care – the Baby Hug 4-in-1. A crib, recliner, table chair and highchair in one, the Baby Hug is the only piece of furniture on the market that can adapt to become each of these items with a simple gesture. With brakes, wheels for moving from room to room and a musical, movable mobile to keep baby entertained, there is no part of your baby’s day that doesn’t need a Baby Hug. In fact it can even be adapted to the height of your bed to make a cosy co-sleeper for nursing moms. Having won several innovation awards in Europe throughout 2018, the Baby Hug has been received incredibly well by the international market, making it one of 2018’s most purchased items of baby furniture. We are proud to announce that Chicco is the only company in the world that sells the Baby Hug 4-in-1 and that it is finally available in stores across South Africa, including Baby City, Babies R Us and online vendors such as www.takealot.com and www.loot.co.za. Make life easy for parents and babies with the Baby Hug 4-in-1. Suitable from birth to 36 months.

January 28, 2019

Review: Chicco Baby Moments Range

When choosing products for your little one’s delicate skin which is still in the process of development, parents tend to be picky as to their product choice. The Chicco Baby Moments range is formulated for baby’s. The ingredients used in the their range of products are gentle ensuring that there is less change of baby’s skin being irritated by the products. Their hypoallergenic formula causes less irritation to your baby’s tender skin and eyes. Besides, the presence of iso-lachrymal neutral pH makes sure the eyes of your baby do not tingle as a result of coming in contact with this product. Chicco is a manufacturer of a wide range of baby-products. The products of this company comply with high standards of safety and are suitable for children. So if you are looking for products for your baby that are free from dyes, alcohol, SLS, SLES and parabens then the Chicco Baby Moments range is the line of products for you! Their range comprises of Chicco Baby Moments Sweet Perfumed Water Body Lotion & Massage Oil Bath Range Oral Care Collection Available to purchase at various baby products retailers as well as www.takealot.com and www.loot.co.za.

January 28, 2019

Finding the best learning environment for the Gen-Z student

With matric complete, a new cohort of Generation Z (Gen-Z) is now in search of optimum learning environments that will support their pursuit of knowledge and help them prepare themselves for the world of work. Often referred to as ‘digital natives’, Gen-Z’s stand out for growing up with a complete immersion in technology which has shaped the ways they find, process, learn and engage with content. As they enter our universities and colleges they also bring with them their generational worldview and traits. Across the world, traditional higher education is challenged to adapt to provide learning environments that will set Gen-Z on pathways to success. Gen-Z’s have been raised in an inter-connected world with unprecedented amounts of information immediately accessible to them through their devices. The world’s problems are more apparent and visceral to them, and they tend to be innovative problem-solvers who are often driven by the need for social change. There may well be many among them who are specifically looking for study programmes that will support their aspirations to make an impactful contribution to an ever-changing and uncertain world. Notable for their adaptability, Gen-Z’s want to be equipped with skills that do not confine them to a single field of work. Rather, they prefer to develop universal skills that will help them to solve challenges in different work environments. Another impact on Gen-Z has been growing up in a world that has been more protective of childhood and children, with parents more aware of parenting and aiming to turn out young adults with healthy self-esteem. As a consequence, Gen-Z’s have expectations of being engaged with as worthwhile individuals, whether that’s online, at home or in their study environment. They value close personalised attention, recognition of their uniqueness and tailor-made plans to help them get to where they want to be in the most optimal ways. They do better with regular, constructive feedback from those in charge, and are more open than any other generation to mentoring, coaching and counselling. For many of Generation Z, the traditional Western university model, with its sprawling, anonymous campus, vast lecture halls and cloistered academics, is not the optimal route for their further education. Their preferences are shaping higher education across the globe, but it’s not that easy for long-standing institutions to transform in radical ways. Lauren Martin, Clinical Psychologist and Head of Teaching and Learning at SACAP (South African College of Applied Psychology) believes this is one of the reasons there has been a steady rise in private higher education institutions across the world. “Private institutions have had the benefit of offering personalised, tailored educational experiences which allows them to remain agile in meeting the changing needs of students who enrol,” she says. “Private institutions like SACAP are specifically geared to provide 21st Century learning environments that best suit the current generation.” Lauren points out that the optimal higher education learning environment for Gen-Z, must include: Providing social learning environments where Gen-Z can engage seamlessly with diverse content, educators, mentors and peers. Their learning environment needs to provide opportunities for sharing, engaging and debating. Smaller classes that allow for robust discussions on relevant world issues are important for Gen-Z’s. “They need to be hands-on when it comes to their learning,” Lauren says. “Their learning environment needs to enable them to be directly and deeply involved in their learning process.” Providing on demand services so that Gen-Z can at any time and with great ease access a variety of services that help them optimise their study experiences. Gen-Z’s are adaptable and can easily access information to assist with their own learning. Their needs rapidly change as they are exposed to new information and contexts, and they require a personalised set of support services to meet their needs. Their learning environment needs to be agile in developing and offering new and diverse support services, delivered flexibly and efficiently. Providing career guidance, planning and focused learning opportunities because Gen-Z’s want to be involved in making a meaningful difference in the world. Providing opportunities for students to gain experience in various work environments or volunteer options during their studies exposes them to the needs in the community and allows them to practically think about meaningful career trajectories. Also, they value developing universal skills that allow them to create careers that perhaps have not even been thought of yet. Their learning environment needs to foster flexibility, autonomy and innovation. Deeply integrating digital learning tools and engagement channels so that Gen-Z can learn the way they learn best – through technology and multimedia devices. “Gen-Z’s are accustomed to communication and learning through various technology platforms such as social media, smart phones and apps, Lauren concludes. “Their learning environments need to incorporate creative technology platforms, applications and in-class integration to keep Gen-Z’s thriving as they study.”

January 24, 2019

Explore the microscopic world – Fun ideas for bored kids

Parents and caregivers need plenty of ideas to keep kids entertained throughout the holiday. If you have access to a basic microscope such as a Foldscope, these fun exploration activities will not only keep the kids occupied, but they will be learning at the same time! To start, you will need a light microscope, microscope slides (glass or make your own from cardboard/paper), coverslips (or sticky tape) to secure the specimen to the slide, a clean container for sample collection, and purified water. Small forceps also come in handy to collect and manipulate specimens. Water bear (tardigrade) hunt Water bears are fascinating creatures that occur all over the world. These micro-animals are able to survive extreme conditions such as freezing cold or high heat, low and high pressures, dehydration, and starvation. They’ve even been shown to survive in outer space! Finding a water bear in your own garden is a special experience, and is sure to pique the interest of children of all ages. Without water, tardigrades enter a state called “cryptobiosis” where their metabolism slows down and they become completely inactive. They are revived from this state when water becomes available again, allowing them to inhabit mosses and lichens that undergo periodic wetting and drying. Collect pieces of moss and/or lichen from bricks, walls, trees, etc. Using a clean implement such as a scraper or blunt knife, remove the moss or lichen and place into a clean container. Try to remove as much dirt from the sample as possible (water bears are more likely to be within the spaces between the moss than in the soil, and the dirt will make it harder to find your water bear). Place your sample of moss or lichen into a small container and add about 20 ml of purified water. Make sure your moss is completely submerged, but do not use too much water as it will be mean more water to search through. Leave the moss to soak for at least 4 hours to give the water bears time to rehydrate and become active. Using a pipette or a straw, collect some of the water and place a drop onto the microscope slide. Cover with a coverslip or sticky tape and place into your microscope or Foldscope. Now you are ready to look for water bears. You may have to make several slides or even find different moss samples if your initial search is unsuccessful. Don’t give up though! Water bears are incredibly abundant and it’s only a matter of time before your patience pays off. Only about 1000 species of these micro-animals have been described by scientists, so there is a good chance you will discover a new species in your own backyard! Pollen Each species of flower’s pollen has unique characteristics. It may be possible to see some of these characteristics using a basic microscope and children will enjoy trying to find the differences. You can collect pollen without picking the flowers by holding a piece of clear sticky tape to the pollen-covered anther. Place the sticky tape onto the microscope slide and observe! Pond-/seawater Pond- and seawater are teeming with microscopic organisms like amoeba, rotifers, nematodes and diatoms. Simply collect some water in a container, place a drop onto a microscope slide and observe. Try to identify as many organisms as you can. Since these creatures are alive and will be swimming around your slide, it is a good idea to take a video if you want to observe them more carefully. Coupling a Foldscope to your smartphone is a quick and easy way to get great videos of your specimens. Foraminifera – armoured amoeba These single-celled microscopic organisms have existed on earth for 570 million years. They are found in all marine environments, but also occur occasionally in freshwater or even on land. Each organism builds a shell around themselves, and these shells have built up for millions of years within the seabed and regions where the sea once flooded the land. Foraminifera fossils are studied for clues about the earth’s climate millions of years ago. Not only are they useful, foraminifera also come in an endless variety of beautiful shapes and colours. If you are able to get some sea sand, you have a good chance of finding some of these armoured amoebae. Tiny insects Even the tiniest insect looks like a scary monster under a microscope! Ants, mosquitoes, fruit flies, aphids, and moths look impressive when magnified 100 times. Since light microscopes function on the premise of light passing through the specimen, it is important to select only small insects for this activity. Some parts of the insect will be too thick for light to pass through, but it is possible to observe the legs, feet, mouthparts, and wings. If you have a lightbox (or a Foldscope with an LED light module), thicker specimens can easily be observed. We do not recommend killing insects for this activity. Instead, find dead insects in spider webs, on window sills or in the garden. Place your insect on a microscope slide, cover with a coverslip or sticky tape, and be prepared to be amazed! Don’t have a microscope? Don’t worry! You can get an ultra-affordable origami-inspired Foldscope online from www.scibuddy.co.za. Foldscopes are durable, easy-to-use, and portable, with 140x magnification. They are available as individual kits or classroom kits containing 20 or 100 units. Deluxe Individual Kits contain an extensive set of accessories to collect specimens and prepare slides. These kits are packaged in a beautiful metal case making it easy for little explorers to keep their Foldscope close at hand. SciBuddy is the exclusive distributor of Foldscopes in South Africa. The owner, Arista Burke, has a background in microbiology and education. She believes that Foldscopes will be a gamechanger for South African children. To find out more about SciBuddy and Foldscope, visit www.scibuddy.co.za or their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/SciBuddySA.

January 22, 2019

Financial planning tips for parents

School holidays are long gone and the reality of live is slowly but surely setting in. Janu-worry is long month and we are all feeling it in our pockets! Well, this is the best time to start planning for your healthy financial year that is 2019. So use the opportunity to see if you could be doing better on the financial front, and look at ways to improve. This month, family financial experts Hero Life answer the questions their clients often ask them about financial planning, plus how to get started, and make the best of it. I really want to get started sorting things out in this new year. But is it a good idea to start now? The beginning of the year is a great reminder to take a few small steps to help improve your financial health and make better money management decisions going forward. With the holiday season, and all it’s associated expenses, being something of the past, there’s no better time than now to get your finances in order for the year ahead. How do I get started with my financial planning? You can start with six easy steps: Step 1: Take a financial inventory (your “original” so to speak). That is see how much you earn, what you spend, on what do you spend your money, your debt situation, your life cover situation as well as savings and retirements. Basically just listing everything you have currently in place. Step 2: Think a bit about what you want to achieve financially for 2019 and what those family goals are (your destination). These could be things like buying a house in five years, or going on an overseas holiday. Or maybe you just want to be financially independent without any debt in 10 years from now. Step 3: Create a budget that will make you reach your goals (basically the map showing you how to go from your origin to your end destination). And commit to reduce your spending and increase your income. Step 4: Categorise your goals and fund these goals with any surplus you have left after you essential living costs every month. This could be e.g. paying off debt sooner, putting more money away for retirement or even just something as simple as starting an emergency fund. Step 5: Look at ways of increasing your income or decreasing your expense to allow for extra surplus every month to fund the goals you have set for yourself. Step 6: Take a moment and celebrate your progress! Beginner financial planning really comes down to just a few basic steps – earn more, spend less and save in a way that aligns with your financial goals. And remember, if at any time you feel you need a bit of push, there are always professionals available to give you a hand. Why is a budget so important when it comes to financial planning? It’s boring and admin-heavy, but by figuring out your fixed and variable expenses, and looking at your bank statements, you’ll see exactly where your money is going which will help you make smart decisions on what you could cut out of your life. You’ll likely find that you’re spending money on things you don’t really need, or you’ll see opportunities where you could be paying less for something. You could also try the 50-20-30 budget method: 50% of your net income should go towards your needs, 30% towards your wants, and 20% to your savings and debt repayments. I have kids, so I feel it might be more important to budget and save. Is this so, even though I have more responsibilities? Absolutely – it’s very important, no matter your expenses or number of dependents. We know that the concept of saving sounds easy, but in practice it’s tough out there, especially when there are always living expenses and new ones coming up, especially when you have children. You need to find ways to save that make sense – whether it’s setting up a debit order on your bank account for a savings plan, only eating takeout once a month, only buying clothes on sale, scouring supermarkets for grocery specials, or packing lunch to take to work. The key to changing spending behaviour is to create a goal, and start small. Begin by switching off lights when you don’t need them to save electricity, or waiting a while before buying those shoes, or limiting yourself to one impulse buy a month. You could save hundreds of rands a month, which equates to thousands by the end of the year. This money can be saved for emergencies, help with expenses for unforeseen expenses, or put towards education policies or increased life cover. What else should be part of my financial plan? Your financial plan should ideally cover every aspect of your finances: savings and investment, insurance (life, short term and medical), managing debt, estate planning, tax planning and retirement planning. For a parent, having a will, life insurance, and savings for their kids’ education is a critical part of a financial plan. You might think that you’ll be able to afford your child’s university expenses from your monthly cash flow, or that you don’t need a will because you don’t have a lot of assets. You might also think that because you’re fairly young, you don’t need life insurance, or that your kids will be provided for by their dad, or your parents when you’re no longer there. This isn’t the case and there are many things to consider – your kids’ education, first cars, weddings and general wellbeing. You’ll be doing them and your partner a big disservice if you don’t plan properly to secure any dreams you have for them. Once I have things in place, what next? Do I always need to change and re-evaluate things? As they say, the only constant in life is change. Your life and circumstances are definitely going to change over the next 12 months.

January 21, 2019

Home first aid kit check list

Every home should have a first aid kit and while you can buy a complete first aid kit you will at some stage need to top up some items that have been used. My personal reference is to make up my own first aid kit so I can include items that I feel are necessary for my family and not always included in the first aid options available. Having a first aid kit on hand is one of the ways to keep your home safe for your family and children. Here’s my personal home first aid checklist: First Aid Manual and Emergency Numbers A first aid kit is only useful if you know how to use it. Make sure to have a first aid manual, along with a list of emergency numbers in your first aid kit. Make sure that you, and other adults in your family, have read the manual and are familiar with it. Taking a first aid course will be very useful too in case of emergency. This will help you to stay calm and give the right if there is a medical emergency in your home. First Aid Container The best type of container for your first aid kit will be a large, sturdy box that is sturdy. It should have handles and plenty of storage space with different compartments. This will make it easy to carry and also easy to find the right thing when you are in a rush. Make sure to store it in a lace that is easy to access quickly when you need it. Thermometer A thermometer is a must for every first aid kit and essential for every home, especially when you have a baby. Very often a high temperature can be the only sure sign that something is not right with your baby. Any mother that has had a sick baby will tell you that taking a baby’s temperature is not always an easy task, especially when it requires holding a thermometer under your wiggly baby’s arm for a period of time waiting for that beep. Look for a baby thermometer that takes the temperature quickly and without any fuss such as this Dr Madre thermometer. Tweezers, Scissors, Safety Pins You will be needing a sharp scissors to cut bandages and other items to size and you may need to cut something else like clothing away from a wound. Tweezers may be needing to remove something from a wound and safety pins can in bandages together and have many other uses. You don’t want to be running around your home searching for these items, so have them stored and ready in your first aid kit. Dressing, Bandages and Band-Aids You will be needing a variety of different dressing, bandages and plasters to deal with different types of wounds. Here’s a list to include: Sterile Gauze Pads in various different sizes Adhesive Hypoallergenic Tape Adhesive Bandages (Band-Aids) in various sizes Elastic Bandages Crepe Roller Bandages – 1 small and 1 large Burn Kit Burn accidents are quite a common occurrence in homes. It is a great idea to have first aid supplies for burns on hand. Make sure that you have the following on hand; Burn dressings of various sizes Gel packs Cold packs Burn Spray Plastic Non-Latex Gloves It is important to always wear gloves when dealing with medical emergencies. Gloves must be non-latex – either nitrile or vinyl, nitrile being the best option. The reason first aid gloves must not be latex is due to the fact that latex gloves have the potential to cause dermatitis and asthma, as well as even possibly more serious allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis. Gloves are important to protect against blood, HiV and other bodily fluids, as well as to prevent any infections. Antiseptic Wounds will need to be cleaned so it is essential to have antiseptic solution, antibiotic cream and antiseptic wipes on hand. It is also a great idea to have waterless hand sanitizer since you may need to clean your hands to work with someone that is injured and you are not able to wash your hands at a tap. Space Blanket A space blanket is a light weight, compact first aid thermal blanket that is used in recovery after shock. Torch and Batteries You never know in what situation you will need to use your first aid kit and while your first aid kit will mostly sit in your cupboard in the case of an emergency you may need a torch when that emergency happens. Medication While there will hopefully only be a few medical emergencies, there will be lots of cases of sick children and family members so I also like to keep on hand various over the counter medications to treat my family if and when anyone gets sick without me having to go out and get anything. It is important to remember not to give your baby under 6 months old any medication unless specifically prescribed by your doctor. Make sure any medications you purchase for your family use are safe for your children too and take careful note of the dosages for your child’s age. Here is a list of over the counter medications I always keep on hand, mostly for my kids, in case of illness: Panado for pain and fever (tablets as well as pediatric syrup) Nurofen for pain and fever (tablets as well as pediatric syrup) Allergex for allergies (tablets as well as pediatric syrup) Saline nasal spray for stuffy noses – we use Iliadin Anti-bacterial mouth spray for sore throats, mouths or gums – we use Andolex Smecta powder for diarrhea Probiotics to boost helpful bacteria and reduce harmful bacteria in the body Drawing ointment which can be used for insect bites and stings, as well as to draw out splinters or anything under the skin. We use Traxx Antifungal cream which can be used to treat a number of skin conditions Med-Lemon (adults only – Med-Lemon is not safe

January 21, 2019

Summer fun without the headache

Summer is the season most South Africans look forward to for its long, lazy weekends and holidays full of braais, swimming, sports, and picnics. Relaxing in the sun are highpoints in the year for most of us. However, mixed with some tension and frustrations and the mix of breaking your routine, eating and drinking differently, staying up late and having too much sun can all lead to headaches. According to a study published in Neurology the official journal of the European Neurological Society, your headache risk jumps 8% each time the temperature climbs nine degrees. Heat may make the blood vessels in your skull expand and press up against surrounding nerve endings, creating a very sensitive situation. As a result, even normal blood flow can feel like a jackhammer drilling through your cranium, says Dr Elliot Shevel, South Africa’s pioneer in the field of migraine surgery and the medical director of The Headache Clinic. Headaches are people’s number one physical woe, but you don’t have to live with the pain. You can stop the throbbing and get back to the beach. Eat healthy meals Eat balanced meals three times a day with healthy snacks in between to make sure your body gets the nutrients and energy it needs. Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) can also trigger headaches in many people. If a meal with high sugar content is eaten, it can cause a rapid rise in blood sugar levels followed by a fast drop that may trigger a headache. Eating a meal with low sugar content may prevent the onset of a headache during the day. Call us on 011 484 0933 for a list of foods which have a low glycemic index. Remember that skipping meals is a sure-fire trigger for headaches. Eat in moderation and enjoy your meals. Beware of too much sun It’s not only the heat, but bright sunlight will often also trigger headaches. Many headache and migraine sufferers are sensitive to bright light and they should avoid it when they have a headache. It is wise to wear sunglasses for protection. Polarized lenses are recommended, as they are effective in cutting out glare. A suitable hat may also be helpful. Get enough sleep A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, tested 32 women with tension-type headache. The investigators studied self-report data on headache triggers, pain interference with sleep, and self-management strategies for pain. 81% reported that going to sleep was the most frequently used self-management strategy, and this group also rated going to sleep as the most effective strategy. So don’t lose out on sleep this winter. Fatigue is a major trigger of headaches as well, aim to sleep seven or eight hours a night. Stay active Taking part in physical activities are not only great fun, but also an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Take up some form of everyday physical activity that will help you stay healthy. Learn the right stretching exercises to stretch the muscles of the head, face, neck and jaw. Stretching should be gentle and soothing, not agonizingly painful. For a free copy of exercises, contact The Headache Clinic on 011 484 093. These exercises will help you to stretch the neck and jaw muscles carefully and will give results. Steer clear of stress Summer can be a very stressful time for most, thanks to large family gatherings over the festive season and stress is a major headache trigger. The research conducted by the World Health Organization has shown that 80 % of headaches are caused by muscle tension, which is triggered by stress. Headache and migraine sufferers should try plan ahead of time for big family get-togethers and holidays to avoid tension headaches. Try to avoid last minute gift shopping, ensure your car is serviced before travelling, delegate chores to family members, and make travel reservations well in advance. Keep your fluid intake up The human brain is more than 75% water, and it is very sensitive to the amount of water available to it. When the brain detects that the water supply is too low, it begins to produce histamines. This is essentially a process of water rationing and conservation, in order to safeguard the brain in case the water shortage continues for a long period of time. The histamines directly cause pain and fatigue, in other words a headache and the low energy that usually accompanies it. It is best to drink plain water, as many carbonated soft drinks contain substances that can also trigger headaches. Substances that headache sufferers should avoid include common ingredients in soft drinks such as caffeine. When to see a doctor It is crucial that if your headaches persist, you should get to the root of the problem. The longer the headache persists, the more damage will be done to the underlying structures. A “multidisciplinary” assessment will need to be done. There are so many different structures in the head, face and neck, all of which can be involved in the migraine process, that no single specialist can have all the knowledge necessary to make a comprehensive assessment and diagnosis. Which structures are causing the pain and generating the pain signals is the million dollar question. For those patients who want to have healthier alternatives to medication, there are a number of non-drug breakthrough treatment options. These include bloodless “surgery”, minimally evasive arterial surgery, posture modifying technologies, Botox and trigger point therapy to name but a few. In most cases it is possible to get to the bottom of the problem and resolve the pain permanently.

January 17, 2019

Understanding the effect of alcoholism on children

An Open Letter To My Teacher Dear Teacher, I think it’s time I told you why I have been acting out at school and crying sometimes. I think you know that something is wrong, because you keep asking me, “What’s the matter?” The reason I haven’t told you before is that I can’t talk to you in the hallway with all the other kids staring at me—and until now, I didn’t feel like I could talk to anybody about it. I’m worried about my schoolwork. I keep getting in trouble for not doing my homework, and not listening in class. Sometimes I am so scared that I just get mad at everybody. I don’t mean to yell. I just feel like everyone is picking on me at home and at school. You see, my dad has a drinking problem. It’s called “alcoholism.” It means that he can’t control his drinking. He comes home some nights really drunk and yells at all of us. Then Mom yells back at him for being drunk and spending all the money. Sometimes he hits her, or my sister and me for no reason, just because he is drunk. Sometimes my sister and I are so scared that we hide in our room. I used to hate my mom and dad for all that – Mom for yelling at Dad and making him even madder, and Dad for his drinking. I don’t hate them anymore because I found out why they were like that. One day a lady came and talked to my mom, and I listened, too. She was the one who explained to us what alcoholism is. I learned that my dad was not horrible, just sick. He has a disease called alcoholism. She told us that when there is someone in the house with a drinking problem, the whole family gets hurt by it. She also told my mom about Al-Anon. That is where families and friends of problem drinkers go to understand the disease of alcoholism and how they can stop being so scared and mad all the time. Now Mom goes to Al-Anon. It works, too. Mom doesn’t scream at Dad or us as much anymore. I go to Alateen, that’s for kids affected by someone else’s drinking. Sometimes we have friends that drink too. Now I understand, and it feels good not to be the only one with my kind of problem. I think that teachers should know about alcoholism, because then they would understand kids like me. If you know of any kids who might have a problem with a drinking parent or a drinking friend, you could tell them where they can get help. It really helped me. Your Student ____________________________ For nearly 70 years, Al-Anon Family Groups, globally, has helped the families who live with the disease of alcoholism. The disease of alcoholism in a family member or friend affects children and teenagers in many ways that impact on their behaviour and ultimately, their school work. Frequently, students and educators do not realise that a relationship with an alcoholic could be a factor in poor performance, disruptive behaviour and other problems. Alateen helps young people understand how alcoholism affects the lives of all who are associated with a problem drinker. It especially effective for children in the Teens & Teens age group Alateen in South Africa We have learned that learners are very cautious about attending Alateen meetings at their schools. In some areas Alateen meetings are held in the evenings in a nearby church hall, community centre or somewhere secure. Parents/guardians must give written permission for Alateen attendance. Alateen South Africa has groups across the country. A list of Alateen meetings may be found on our websites: http://www.alanon.org.za/meetings/ http://www.alanongauteng.co.za/ Teen Corner (Alateen) [email protected] — 24 hr Helpline – 0861 25 66 66 Literature & more information is available. Just call us.

January 16, 2019

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