Why Doesn’t Sleep Training Work?

Working in the baby/parenting industry I know that there are many topics that can cause a big debate.  Topics that can get parents talking, engaging and give passionate opinions on.  In the sleep space this is no different and even just the words ‘sleep training’ might send a shiver down most parent’s spine.  Even I don’t love the words “sleep training”… not because I have strong opinions on it but rather because I know other parents do.  I always find myself clarifying the words, explaining what I mean when I say it. What do I mean when I say sleep training?  For me sleep training means the methods we use to create sustainable sleep associations.  Yes, it sounds complicated but in reality it should. I purposefully chose the wording!  I know the power that goes with it.  I know how irresponsible people can go about sleep training!  I know that not doing it correctly, can do more harm than good!  I know that just doing sleep training will not work!  I know doing sleep training wrong will not work! YES, I said it – sleep training does NOT work!  Many times I have consulted with parents who have attempted a form of sleep training by themselves and it did not go well! Even long hours of crying didn’t help at all and resulted in a traumatised baby and parents. This has nothing to do with the parent’s consistency, nothing to do with their determination or even their beliefs.  They did it and it did NOT work.  Why doesn’t sleep training work if attempted without professional help? Even though sleep is natural, it is complex AND parents time and time again underestimate this.  Sleep training (or rather creating sustainable sleep associations) is only one part of sleeping well.  This is the part that many parents have passionate opinions on because it is often one of the more difficult steps of teaching good sleep habits  BUT it does not make it more important.  The fact is that too many parents attempt sleep training without understanding how to do it responsibly.  Too many parents attempt sleep training without any of the other building blocks of sleep in place.  Too many parents attempt sleep training in an irresponsible way, which can cause a lot more unnecessary crying and ultimately more sleep issues. Sleep training without a proper daily routine and schedule in place will not work.  Sleep training after giving your child a litre of coca cola will just cause hours and hours of crying.  Sleep training with a bedtime routine that is too late will cause you baby to wake up soon after falling asleep.  Sleep training with all the lights on will not only prolong the process but also create multiple wake ups. Sleep training does NOT work… in isolation.  It should never be attempted without first considering the other building blocks of good quality sleep, that would be irresponsible.  You can only create sustainable sleep associations once all the other building blocks of sleep are in place.  Just because the other building blocks are easier to achieve, does not make them less important.  In fact, getting the other building blocks in place can go a long way in bettering your baby’s sleep without even needing to do sleep training!  By Jolandi Becker – MD of Good Night

October 30, 2023

HOW TO BUILD UP YOUR CHILD’S CONFIDENCE IN MATHS

It’s a common experience… your child sits down to work on Maths homework but very quickly becomes visibly stressed, frustrated, or upset. For many kids, doing Maths can seem like a daunting task, even a scary one. And while many do overcome it, some of us carry this Maths anxiety with us for much of our lives. If you’re looking to help your child reduce their Maths anxiety, we have a few suggestions.  Be Empathetic to Maths Struggles  Empathy can go a long way. Whether it’s because you experienced similar struggles as a child or watched someone else struggle, making your child feel like they’re not alone can help ease their stress. When kids hear that others in their lives faced similar challenges it can help them to feel understood and a little more confident to tackle the task in front of them.   Teach Them to be OK with Making Mistakes  Learning to be OK with making mistakes is distinct from addressing the emotions that bubble up with failure. Once your child is no longer feeling overwhelmed, helping them to feel OK with making mistakes is all about showing them that mistakes are often how learning happens. We often remember our mistakes more clearly than the times we didn’t need to struggle at all. Identifying where we went wrong is one of the best ways to learn how to get to the answer or solution on your own. Understanding the path it took to get something right means committing to memory the path to success.   Tip: Try pointing out something that was previously hard for your child and is now easy because they figured out their mistakes and practiced until they got it. For example, learning to ride a bike, practicing a sport, or an earlier Maths concept.   Explain the Importance of Finding (And Filling) Gaps  Lastly, very often the cause of Maths anxiety is the fact that earlier concepts weren’t mastered. Gaps in foundational knowledge create a shaky foundation for more challenging concepts. Particularly, if children don’t do well in Maths at an early age, it can have a cumulative effect.   At Kumon, we focus on mastery. We start students off at a comfortable starting point, which can sometimes mean starting on material that is below their current grade level. Current struggles might be top of mind for parents and the kids themselves, but often the solution to current struggles is filling in gaps in knowledge of earlier concepts. If a child never fully mastered addition, multiplication, division, and other foundational concepts, they are likely to hit a wall when more complicated concepts are introduced.   Enrol In a Maths Programme to Help Them Practice and Master their Skills  Enrolling your child in an additional Maths study programme (such as Kumon) can help them fill those gaps as they consistently practice their Maths skills. While school studies march on, often leaving a child feeling overwhelmed and increasingly left behind, a supplementary programme can provide additional practice in key concepts and allow them sufficient time to truly master a concept before progressing to the next. This additional support can often help a struggling child to catch up, become confident and finally succeed in a previously dreaded subject. Maths anxiety is a condition that can be very detrimental to a child’s long-term school success, causing them to feel inadequate, not smart enough or even a failure. Anxiety can cause a child to get into a negative reinforcement cycle that perpetuates their feeling of inadequacy. When Maths work comes up they feel anxious because they don’t understand the work. This anxiety causes their brains to become confused or shut down which then prevents them from thinking logically or rationally and reinforces the experience that “I can’t do Maths!”  So, in conclusion, it is important to notice how your child feels about their Maths work and to identify Maths anxiety as early as possible. Then, if you notice this occurring, take every step possible to address the anxiety and to enable your child to overcome, feel confident and believe in themselves. This article is courtesy of the Kumon North America website* * https://www.kumon.com/resources/how-to-build-up-your-childs-math-confidence/ 

October 27, 2023

HALLO-FREAK HALLO-WEEK – Creepy Creatures

Cartoon Network celebrates Halloween this month with a daily block of spooky episodes ofTeen Titans Go!; We Bare Bears; Craig of the Creek; The Amazing World of Gumball; and many more. From 28 – 31 October, catch the freakiest, craziest, oddest episodes of your favourite shows in a special not-so-scary, a-bit-more-hairy block, only on Cartoon Network Africa!  Tune-in: Saturday, 28 October – Tuesday, 31 October from 14:55 CAT

October 27, 2023

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR BREAST CHANGES DURING AND AFTER PREGNANCY

Breast changes within a pregnant woman are truly incredible. The topic of breast development is one which is grossly misunderstood. Most women have an incorrect knowledge of how their own body develops. For most of ladies, it is assumed that by the time they have gone through puberty, that their breasts are fully developed. But this is wildly incorrect. Puberty is actually just the beginning of breast development.  Within this article, we will discuss the actual development cycle of a woman’s breasts and what changes she can prepare herself for both during, and after pregnancy. You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet! How Breasts Develop After Puberty Many people link breast development to size. Simply put, this is the wrong measure to take. Whilst a woman’s breast size will remain relatively the same from puberty up until pregnancy, the real development happens within the tissue itself. Breasts actually continue to develop every time a woman menstruates. When it is that time of the month, a lady’s breasts begin to produce small amounts of secretory tissue. This is the tissue that allows milk production to take place. This cycle will go on until a woman either reaches the age of about 34, or she falls pregnant. Naturally, another question arises in light of this knowledge. If a woman is consistently creating additional tissue, why do the breasts not get bigger as she gets older? Well, the breast actually replace the older cells within them when creating the new ones. As such, the old cells are replaced by the new. This is also why a lady’s breasts become incredibly sensitive during this time.  In a nutshell, the body only begins to develop a woman’s breasts from the end of puberty onwards. But, what happens when you fall pregnant? Breast Development During Pregnancy Pregnancy is truly a miraculous time for a woman. Multiple changes begin to happen within your body. Your hormones sore, your bodily functions begin to change, but above all, a tiny being begins to grow within you.  This period can be seen as your breast development heyday. During this time, your breasts will grow into full maturity. And it all begins after month one of falling pregnant. The first notable thing a woman will experience is the sensitivity of her breasts. This is actually one of the most common first signs of pregnancy. This is caused by the sudden change in hormones within her body. Within the first four to six weeks, the breasts will be particularly sensitive – similar to how they feel during a period. For the first trimester of her pregnancy, a woman’s breasts will remain sensitive. Visible Physical Changes The next change is one you will physically be able to witness. During pregnancy, breasts may go up by a cup size. This change happens particularly in first time mothers. Some ladies even go up by two sizes during this time. You will start to see the beginning of this growth from about six to eight weeks into pregnancy. Breasts may also begin to feel particularly itchy during pregnancy. This is due to the tightness of the skin within the area as the breasts grow. Some women have even developed stretch marks on their breasts during pregnancy from the sudden growth. Areola Changes Another physical indication of breast change during pregnancy are prominent veins. When pregnant, a woman’s breasts may begin to show large, blue veins running through them. This is attributed to the act that the veins will expand to accommodate extra blood flow of the growing breast tissues. Don’t be alarmed if you notice this on yourself – it is completely natural and will fade once you have given birth and stopped breastfeeding. Additional colour changes to expect occur within the areola’s. During pregnancy, it is common for a woman’s areola’s to become slightly larger, and darker in colour. Your areola’s will also develop pronounced bumps, known as Montgomery’s tubercles. These are oil producing glands which are common within pregnancy, and help lubricate the nipples during this time. Tissue Changes  As far as changes are concerned, the first thing which begins to change in the tissue structure are the amount of milk ducts within the breast. The hormones released during pregnancy send messages to the breast structure informing it of the need to increase the number of ducts – as feeding will soon begin. As such, a burst of ducts begins to develop within the breast tissue.  Lactocytes are another tissue addition within the breasts during pregnancy. These are actually the milk production cells. Naturally, the body will need to develop these as they are the power houses behind breastfeeding. Other Changes The next set of changes do not necessarily happen within all women. Firstly, there is the possibility of the breasts leaking. During the third month of pregnancy, a woman’s body begins to produce the liquid substance known as colostrum. This is also known as liquid gold, as it contains nutritional value second to none for babies. However, during the last few months of pregnancy, the breasts may actually leak a tiny bit of colostrum. This happens frequently in some women, may start earlier in others, and may not occur for some moms. If you experience a breast leakage, don’t be ashamed. Invest in a few disposable breast pads and wear these during this time. Another pregnancy change could be that of lumpy breast tissue. Some ladies may develop umps within the breasts during pregnancy. This can commonly be associated to milk-filled cysts beginning to appear. These should subside once the woman begins to pump r breast feed. How to Deal With Breast Changes During Pregnancy Breast changes can be uncomfortable for some women. Even if they are not causing discomfort to you, there is something every pregnant woman needs to invest in; nursing bras. Nursing bras or apparel is a must have for all moms to be. These are designed to optimise comfort both during pregnancy and after. They also allow for easy feeding

October 26, 2023

GARDENING WITH YOUR CHILDREN

Every weekend one of my favourite activities begin with my children, it is something that we all look forward too each week. Our seeds that we saved from the fruits and veggies have dried out and they are now waiting for us to take them and begin a whole new journey of gardening together. We begin by weeding the flower beds, watering the garden and then planting new seeds, this is all part of our Sunday mornings. Gardening has been a special time amongst South Africans for decades. As a small child I have fond memories of watching my father attend to his gardens each day and so what better family memory to create than creating a beautiful garden with my children. After all, what child does not like being outside, digging in soil, getting dirty, creating things and watching them grow! This weekly activity has also provided a great outlet for communicating in our household and we have strengthened our relationships with each other as a result.  I simply love when my children come running, little pot in hand to show me that their seed, from the previous week, has started to grow. Gardening has mustered great responsibility with my little one’s and this is something that is not taken lightly in our house. Yes, there have been times when they have all learnt about cause and effect, like not watering the seedling resulted in a unhappy plant, but I am happy to report that we have had very few casualties along the way. When we began gardening with our children, I knew that this was the perfect opportunity for me to broaden their knowledge of good food vs bad food. Although I am lucky in that my children don’t have a problem eating their vegetables, this did not stop me from giving a lesson or two on the importance of putting the right food into our bodies. Getting out in the sunshine, digging in the dirt is also a wonderful way to discover and learn about all the creepy crawly’s that lurk beneath the surface and everyone loves to watch their little sister being chased by their latest discovery.  All in all, this is a lovely way for moms and dads to unwind with their kiddies each week and discover new things. Here are a few tips on how to create a garden with your child: Keep it simple. Give your child their own garden space to look after and nurture. It does not need to be a big area at all, a few pots is all that is needed to get them excited. Involve older children on the planning and design of the garden. Tweens love getting involved when you entice their opinion about something. Use light-weight tools and gardening equipment with your children. Grow an interesting assortment of of seeds such as sunflowers, corn, pumpkin, tomatoes. Plant flowers that attract bird life and butterflies into your garden. Incorporate flowers that are bright and sweet in smell. Most importantly, have fun!

October 25, 2023

Setting boundaries – how to draw the line before it gets blurred

First, we need to look at why we need to set boundaries? Boundaries are the rules you set, about how others are allowed to treat you. The purpose of setting a healthy boundary is to protect and take good care of you, as well as, the relationship with others.   Whether it be in relationships, at work, at home or at school, they are crucially important to your personal well-being, as well as that of others. Why then, are we afraid of setting boundaries if they are there to protect us? Everyone is different Something that affects you might not be a big deal to someone else. This could make you feel like your boundaries are wrong.  Fear of Rejection  You might feel afraid to enforce your boundaries because it might upset someone else  Effort Enforcing boundaries can feel like a lot of work, so you might be tempted to ignore issues in the hopes that they will go away on their own. It is thus unfortunately easy for lines to get blurred.  These adapted guidelines from psychcentral.com may help you in the process of setting healthy boundaries: Enjoy some self-reflection To successfully introduce and set boundaries, it’s key to understand why they’re each important to you and how they will benefit your emotional well-being. Sometimes stuff happens to people that makes them feel uncomfortable, but they’re not sure why. The first step in having healthy boundaries in any situation is spending the time to explore what’s happening to you and why you feel uncomfortable. Start small If you don’t have many boundaries in place already, the prospect of introducing more might seem overwhelming — so build them up slowly. Doing so allows you to take things at a more comfortable pace, and it provides time to reflect on whether it’s heading in the right direction or if you need to make some tweaks. Set them early  It can sometimes be hard to start putting boundaries in, especially in pre-existing relationships. Rather set them straight away. By setting boundaries and expectations from the very beginning, everyone knows where they stand, and feelings of hurt, confusion, and frustration can be lessened. Be consistent Letting boundaries slide can lead to confusion and encourage new expectations and demands among those around you. Try keeping things consistent and steady. This helps to reinforce your original thresholds and beliefs, and it ensures those lines remain clearly established. Create a framework Boundaries may vary, depending on the type of relationship. However, if you find it helpful, there’s no reason not to have a few basics in place that can be adapted accordingly. Feel free to add extras In some aspects of our lives, there may already be boundaries in place, but consider these the minimum. Setting boundaries in certain aspects of your life, may lead to more productivity and feeling empowered. Be aware of social media These platforms allow for more communication than ever, but they’ve also encouraged some considerable boundary blurring. Oversharing can become a concern, especially on public platforms where family and friends may post personal information or photos that we don’t want shared publicly. If you deem a particular action as boundary-crossing in real life, your concerns are no less valid when it occurs digitally. Talk, talk, talk Communication is critical in the world of boundaries, especially if someone consistently oversteps yours. While you might need to raise your concerns, these discussions need not be confrontational. By approaching the situation relevant to the circumstances in context, it may prevent confrontation, resentment or awkward situations before it becomes a concern. Be your biggest champion For boundaries to have a strong foundation, you need to show yourself a bit of love. A lot of it comes down to self-worth and self-value. If this is lacking, you may find it difficult to set and enforce boundaries to protect yourself. Changing your internal dialogue will make you feel more deserving. Gain some perspective  Not having boundaries can be detrimental to our mental health, but going too far and over-thinking them can also impact our emotional well-being. It’s good to have boundaries, but don’t be dictated by them. Sometimes you’ve just got to go with your gut instinct. We can forget that we’re actually quite good at navigating most things and are quite intuitive as human beings. Also, flexibility is not always a bad thing, as long as it justifies a positive outcome.  Recognizing the boundaries of others In addition to setting your own boundaries, it’s important to appreciate those of others, too — even if they’re different from your own. Repeatedly violating boundaries can breed resentment and contempt, and cause people to withdraw. So, take a moment to consider what may be important to the other person. On a final note Don’t feel guilty about setting boundaries. They’re essentially a form of self-care, and we actively look to incorporate other elements of this into our lives daily — from eating a balanced diet to exercising. This should not be different! At Wingu Academy we have a dedicated Wellness Hub to assist in both academic and mental well-being. The Wellness Hub offers a range of free resources to parents, learners, as well as staff members to support personal growth and well-being. Read more about setting boundaries at: https://psychcentral.com/lib/10-way-to-build-and-preserve-better-boundaries#recap

October 25, 2023

5 tricks to get your toddler to eat more fruit and veg

Fruit and vegetables are key to a balanced, healthy diet, but we all know that sometimes getting your toddler to enjoy them can be a challenge. Here’s exactly why fruit and veg are so important and sneaky ways to get your toddler to eat – and enjoy! – them. If you’re having trouble getting your toddler to gobble up their fruit and veg, you’re not alone. Between the ages of two and six it isn’t unusual for little ones to get a little more picky about the foods they are willing to try. But fruit and veg are an important part of a balanced diet – they boost immunity, provide important roughage, and are packed full of vitamins and minerals. In short, they ensure your child’s healthy growth and development, promote good health, and protect against diseases.  So, how can you get your child to eat more of nature’s bounty? Try these tricks: 1. Sneak veg into sauces and their favourite foods Next time you’re making a pasta sauce, meatballs, cottage pie, or even mac and cheese, add a little veg to the mix. It won’t alter the taste and will ensure that your little one is getting a good dose of veg. Let Squish 100% Veg Puree be your secret weapon. Packed full of veggie goodness, Squish pouches have a convenient resealable lid which means you can use what you need to add some veggies to sauces and meals, then just pop the lid back on, put it in the fridge and use again for another meal. Choose from Squish 100% Butternut + Carrot, Butternut + Carrot + Sweet Potato, and Mixed Veg. Looking for recipe inspiration? Your toddler will love this quick and easy veggie-packed Pasta Sauce.  2. Freeze it! Slushies are fun and delicious – and when they’re made from Squish 100% Pressed Juice you can rest easy knowing your little one is getting a good serving of fruity goodness too. Simply keep a selection of Squish juice boxes in the freezer, then when you need a slushie, remove and let it defrost slightly, then serve – it’s as easy as that! Squish 100% Pressed Juices are made from 100% fruit, are preservative free, and come in a range of thirst-quenching flavours, including Apple, Apple + Prune with Rooibos Extract, Pear + Prune, and Summer Berries. 3. Offer dips Finger foods lend themselves well to dipping and are always a firm favourite with toddlers. Dips are also an easy way to sneak a serving of veg into your toddler’s meal. Add a pouch of Squish 100% Veg Puree to a tub of cottage cheese or cream cheese, or blitz together with a can of drained chickpeas. Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees are free of preservatives, flavourants and colourants – and have no added sugar. This is also a good opportunity to offer your child raw vegetables cut into strips or fun shapes for dipping. Try cucumber, red or yellow pepper, or carrots. Remember children often have to try a new taste several times before they’ll eat it with enthusiasm, so keep trying! 4. Get smoothie-licious When you have a stash of Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Puree pouches in your pantry, a delicious smoothie packed full of natural goodness is just a quick blitz away. Smoothies are a great addition to breakfast and are also good to add to your little one’s packed lunch. To make, simply add a pouch of Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Puree to a cup of natural yoghurt (or you can use half milk, half yoghurt) and blitz. Remember, you can use the veggie flavours too, especially Squish 100% Pear, Butternut, Yoghurt + Mango with Cinnamon, Pear + Sweet Potato or Apple, Beetroot + Guava.  5. Bake them in! Every toddler loves a baked treat – but did you know they’re also a great way to sneak a little more fruit and veg into their diet? The next time you’re making your favourite muffin or pancake batter mix substitute the sugar with any Squish 100% Fruit Puree like Squish Summer Berries or Mango + Banana to take them to the next level of nutritious deliciousness. Double the batch, so you can freeze halve – that way you’ll always have delicious snacks on hand for mid-afternoon treats and lunchbox fillers. You’ll also want to try this Chocolate Brownie recipe – your little one will never guess that they’re packed with veggies and fruit! 

October 24, 2023

Unpacking common myths around child drowning

Whether you have a pool or have small children in your family or social circle, everyone needs to learn about pool safety. Being able to identify a drowning in progress and acting fast can make a real difference to the child making a full recovery after a drowning incident.  Most people imagine that picture A is an accurate depiction of a drowning in progress. In reality, B and C are more accurate – mouth at water level, head bobbing, body upright, little to no splashing and sometimes the appearance of doing doggie paddle. Familiarise yourself with these drowning behaviours:  Head low in the water, mouth at water level  Head tilted back with mouth open Trying to roll over onto the back to float Hair falling over the forehead or eyes Body is vertical/ upright  Eyes glassy & empty, unable to focus Eyes open, with fear evident on the face Hyperventilating or gasping Trying to swim in one direction but without progress Common Drowning Myths Myth: Drowning children will shout for help Drowning children are physiologically unable to call out. The respiratory system is designed for breathing – speech is the secondary function. Drowning children’s mouths alternately sink below and reappear above the surface but while their mouth is above the surface, they need to exhale and inhale before they sink again. There is not enough time to cry out.  Myth: Drowning children are unsupervised children 50% of all child drownings will occur 25 metres or less from an adult who was distracted for only a few seconds.  Myth: Drowning children wave their arms to attract attention or will thrash in the water Drowning children cannot wave for help. Physiologically, a person who is drowning cannot perform voluntary movements such as waving or moving towards a rescuer. Envisage the surface of the water as a platform. Someone who is drowning often presses down on the surface and tries to use it as leverage to get their mouth above the water’s surface to breathe. So what the onlooker sees are arm movements that can appear to be playful swimming. Children will not kick wildly either. They remain upright in the water with no evidence of a supporting kick. They are quiet, focused only on breathing and show no signs of violent struggle. The child’s struggle is quick — 20 seconds, whereas an adult struggles for 60 seconds. Myth: My child has had swimming lessons so he / she won’t drown No child is ever drown-proof, no matter how good their swimming skills. A few swimming lessons are no guarantee when it comes to drowning prevention.  Myth: Water wings and flotation aids will prevent drowning Water wings give a dangerous and false sense of security, often making children think they are stronger swimmers than they actually are. Flotation aids can also suddenly deflate. To prevent a tragedy, be vigilant about pool safety and cover your pool with the leading safety cover from PowerPlastics Pool Covers – The PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover which also complies with local safety regulations. This cover also saves water, power and chemical input, giving you safety as well as savings, and it brings a beautiful finish to the outdoor living area. Learn more and shop online at www.powerplastics.co.za 

October 23, 2023

THOMAS & FRIENDS: ALL ENGINES GO!

Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go! is back on track with big adventures fueled by friendships. Thomas and his friends will embrace unexpected surprises and discover more about each other as they get into new shenanigans on the Island of Sodor. When Carly doesn’t return from saving Emily from an accidental derailing, a worried Sandy recruits the help of a bored Diesel to find her best gal pal. As their friends organise a special party, Sandy and Kana try to create a surprise of their own – but when it goes wrong, they learn that togetherness is more important than any surprise. In a bid to make their job of prepping hay bales for a huge hay delivery more fun, Terence and Carly set out to create the tallest hay tower ever!  Premiere: Monday, 23 October @ 08:25 CAT ⏰ Tune in: Mondays – Fridays @ 08:25 CAT Also available on DStv Catch Up

October 23, 2023

Barbie® Doll with Down Syndrome, Supported by Down Syndrome South Africa, Now Available in Store

The newest addition to Mattel’s range of inspirational dolls is a Barbie doll with Down syndrome, created to allow even more children to see themselves in Barbie, as well as have Barbie reflect the world around them. Now available in South Africa, ahead of National Down Syndrome Day on the 20th of October, The Barbie doll with Down syndrome is meant to inspire all children to tell more stories through play.   “As the most diverse doll line on the market, Barbie plays an important role in a child’s early experiences, and we are dedicated to doing our part to counter social stigma through play,” said Lisa McKnight, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Barbie & Dolls, Mattel. “Doll play outside of a child’s own lived experience can teach understanding and build a greater sense of empathy, leading to a more accepting world. We are proud to introduce a Barbie doll with Down syndrome to better reflect the world around us and further our commitment to celebrating inclusion through play.”   To ensure the doll accurately represents a person with Down syndrome, Barbie worked closely with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). NDSS empowers individuals with Down syndrome and their families by providing resources, driving policy change, engaging with local communities. NDSS’s guidance and real-world experiences informed the design process from start to finish, including the dolls sculpt, clothing, accessories, and packaging. The close partnership ensured the Barbie team celebrated individuals with Down syndrome through a doll that would immediately connect with the community.  “The launch of new Barbie Doll with Down syndrome in South Africa is a powerful symbol of inclusivity and representation”, says Ancella Ramjas, National Executive Director at Down Syndrome South Africa (DSSA). As an organisation working with persons with Down Syndrome and their families, this presents a unique opportunity to work with Barbie SA to educate, empower and promote acceptance towards a more inclusive world, where everyone’s uniqueness is celebrated.”  “’Empowering Dreams, Embracing Diversity’ is the theme that we will be working with our upcoming National Awareness Month in October, and I also think it aligns with the message that we as an organisation see with regards to the impact of the new Barbie Doll. Together let’s break down barriers one doll at a time by Empowering Dreams and Embracing Diversity,” concludes Ancella Ramjas.  Children’s early experiences help shape their thoughts and perceptions – and Barbie can play an important role in this process. When a child plays with Barbie, they play out their dreams and imagine they can be anything. Doll play has an incredible purpose during key developmental stages as it may help set children on a course for success by allowing them to develop empathy – fuelling social skills needed to excel as they imagine their futures with an equal playing field. The Barbie doll with Down syndrome allows more children to see themselves in Barbie as well as the world around them, which can help foster a sense of inclusivity.    Barbie is the most inclusive doll line on the market – with over 175 looks offering a variety of eye colours, hair colours and textures, body types, disabilities, and fashions to tell more stories. Barbie has introduced dolls with vitiligo, dolls that use a wheelchair or a prosthetic limb, a doll with hearing aids and a doll without hair. This year, Barbie is continuing to represent global belonging and inclusivity with the full 2023 Fashionistas lineup, which also includes new dolls in a variety of body types including a new Fashionista doll wearing braces and a Ken Fashionista doll with a prosthetic leg.  Barbie doll with Down Syndrome is available at leading retailers nation-wide, at a RSP of R279.00  Celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Day by Joining Down Syndrome South Africa at the Pretoria Botanical Gardens for an Awareness Walk and Picnic on the 21st of October. The day will include a fun walk, cup cake decorating, family picnic, face painting, and so much more. RSVP to this event by mailing [email protected]  

October 20, 2023

WE BABY BEARS- Star Seekers

Hop in the box for a We Baby Bears journey where The Baby Bears’ wish upon a star turns their box into a magical means of transportation to many worlds, from a village of talking vegetables to a land where snow sculptures come to life. This month – join Baby Grizz, Baby Panda, and Baby Ice Bear in a two-part special entitled ‘The Little Fallen Star’ where the Baby Bears travel to the far reaches of space to discover the origin of their magic box.   Premiere: Saturday, 21 October from 08:45 CAT

October 20, 2023

How can I raise a body positive child?

With media bombarding our children from a very young age with images of what they think a person’s body should be – raising a body positive child is harder than it was 20 years ago.

October 18, 2023

Emotional and Social Milestones of a 6-year-old

Why it’s important to nurture empathy in kids? Parents should consider teaching empathy and nurturing emotional intelligence in their children for several reasons. In its most basic form, empathy is the ability to put oneself in another’s shoes and comprehend their emotions and experiences. Empathy can also be useful in teaching children about bullying and how to avoid it. Thus, teaching empathy is an important factor in preventing bullying at school. How can parents encourage emotional intelligence and empathy in their children? Make sure your child’s emotional needs are met – To be able to feel and express empathy for another person, a child’s emotional needs must first be satisfied. Before she can help someone else, she must be able to rely on her parents and caregivers for emotional support. Teach your child how to cope with negative emotions – Negative emotions like anger and jealousy are common in children and adults. A child with good emotional intelligence and empathy is more likely to be taught how to handle these feelings positively in a problem-solving manner by sympathetic parents. Ask, “How would you feel?” – When a pre-schooler smacks a sibling or a friend or takes away a toy they’re playing with, a parent should explain that such action might hurt a person. “How would you feel if someone took your toy away?” or “How would you feel if someone smacked you?” are some examples of questions to use. Name that feeling – Identify and categorize feelings and emotions as much as possible to assist your child in understanding them. If your child behaves kindly toward someone, you can say: “That was very good of you to be so worried about your friend; I’m sure it made him feel much better when you were so kind to him. If your child behaves unpleasantly, you can say: “I understand you may be angry, but it made your friend sad when you stole his toy from him.” Talk about positive and negative behaviours around you – In real life, as well as in books, television, and movies, we are always exposed to instances of good and bad behaviour. Discuss with your child any behaviour you notice, such as someone making another person upset or acting like a bully, or someone helping others and making them feel better about themselves. Set a good example – By watching you and other adults in their lives, your child learns how to interact with others. Show them what it is to be helpful or kind and loving. You can teach your child to be sympathetic by helping family members and neighbours and supporting friends and those in need or going through a difficult time.

October 17, 2023

Always online – SA teens share real-life experiences

FYI play it safe launches ’Sip the Tea’ podcast If you’re the parent of a teenager, you most likely don’t know as much about their online life as you should.  Our children are immersed in the digital world, inhabiting digital environments, and gathering in digital spaces that most parents don’t even know exist, never mind understand how to navigate.  It doesn’t help that these virtual locales where teens meet up and hang out are ever-changing; they can disappear in a whiff, migrate at a whim and new ones pop up every day. It’s nearly impossible for parents to keep up. Our tweens and teens range across a multitude of social media, gaming environments and messaging platforms where they find the connection and validation that is so vital to their life-stages.  But they also encounter risks and dangers.   ‘Sipping the tea’ is teen slang for side-eyeing the juicy ‘gos’ and listening in to get the latest scoop. Rachelle Best, parent of a teenage daughter and the CEO and Founder of the AI-powered monitoring app, FYI play it safe, is the host of Sip the Tea.  Across the first season of eight episodes launching on 17th October, Rachelle, in conversation with presenter, Amy Maclver, tackles major themes impacting on teens’ online lives, such as cyberbullying, online grooming, pornography and exposure to upsetting content.  Teens’ voices, digitally altered to protect identity, are prominent throughout the series, as they open up to Rachelle about their own experiences as well as share insights about the experiences of their siblings and friends. Rachelle says, “Parents listening in may be surprised at the frankness and honesty.  Teens so often have the reputation for reticence or even being secretive when it comes to connecting with adults.  “In my journey, both through Sip the Tea interviews and engaging with children in schools, one glaring truth has emerged — our kids crave open and honest conversations about the digital world’s lurking risks and threats. They are not just curious; they’re deeply disturbed by the dangers they face online. Remarkably, many of these young people don’t merely seek protection; they aspire to help us, the adults, understand the real risks they face.  Most agree that there should be limits and protections on children’s online activity – in fact, they recommend these.  What they don’t want though, is to be judged and punished for their curiosity or their mistakes.  They don’t want the adults to overreact.  They don’t want the WIFI switched off or to have their devices taken away.  Instead, they’re offering us a unique opportunity — a chance for parents to reshape their approach to online safety. It’s an invitation to build an understanding relationship with their teen based on open and honest communication.” On the one hand, there are parents who are prone to overreact and rigidly police their children’s devices, and on the other are those who have their heads in the sand and believe the risks will never materialise with their children.  Rachelle says, “Unfortunately, the ‘not my child syndrome’ is rife in South Africa.  There are parents who do nothing or so little to create a family online safety ecosystem, and then blithely say they don’t need to because they ‘trust their child’.  However, online safety should not be linked to the trust-relationship with your child. Harmful content is everywhere, and your child does not necessarily have to go looking for it to be exposed.  A child may see porn through no fault of their own, think that the trust-relationship with their parents is now ruined and that their parents won’t trust them again.  When I conducted the Sip the Tea interviews, I anticipated some shocking stories about online grooming, cyber bullying and pornography; what I didn’t expect is the extreme cruelty that some of the children had encountered.  We hear from these kids’ stories, that they have been exposed to some of the most horrific scenes imaginable, which is bound to make a lasting impact on their emotional well-being.” The family online safety ecosystem that Rachelle refers to here is the use of multiple solutions that goes beyond just deploying the phone’s screen time limit and parental controls to restrict access to some known websites and apps.  While these play a role in the online safety ecosystem, their efficacy is partial.  Latest solutions such as FYI play it safe draw on AI and ML to monitor the content of children’s online activity across multiple devices in real-time.  This provides parents with proactive alerts when their children may be exposed to online risks.  It dynamically monitors all the content that the child engages with, including social media, in-game and instant messaging chats.   Apart from opening parents’ eyes to online risks, Sip the Tea offers a balanced view of the lives of our digital natives.  Rachelle says, “There are so many benefits to teens being online.  It’s wonderful to hear how they make lasting friendships and find acceptance and reassurance in the digital world.  There’s so much to learn, so many opportunities to find and develop your passions and so many ways to grow as a responsible digital citizen.  What’s important for parents is to become empowered and knowledgeable.  We need to understand teen digital spaces better, we need to be clear about risks and threats, and we need to be proactive when it comes to helping our teens stay safer online.” You can find Sip the Tea on all major podcasting platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more, from 17th October 2023. Episode 1: Teens and tech – We explore the technology setups that tweens and teens have at home. We delve into the rules, controls, and guidance in place to ensure safe and balanced digital engagement. Episode 2: Social media and the apps they use – We lift the curtain on the online social worlds of today’s youth. From Snapchat and TikTok to Discord, we explore the apps they’re using and the experiences they’re having on these platforms. Episode 3:

October 16, 2023

Breastfeeding tips

Symptoms you may experience when not breastfeeding The following information is to be used as a guide to and at the discretion of the end-user and should not replace a doctor’s opinion. Your breasts may become sore, engorged or swollen and firm to touch. You may develop a slight fever. Your breasts may leak a significant amount of milk. You may have some uterine bleeding during this time. If you have any concerns or questions about the symptoms you experience during this time contact your doctor for more information. Care for your breasts when not breastfeeding The following information is to be used as a guide to and at the discretion of the end-user and should not replace a doctor’s opinion. Try ice packs on your breast for 15-20 minutes at a time. If ice doesn’t help, try using a warm washcloth on your breasts. Wear a well-fitting bra that is not too tight. Let your baby nurse at your breasts for a few minutes at a time. Ask your doctor about methods to help release a small amount of milk from your breasts, which may relieve some of the discomfort. Contact your doctor if you have any questions or concerns or you develop chills, or a fever and your breasts are still uncomfortable and swollen after 1-2 days. Benefits of breastfeeding The following information is to be used as a guide to and at the discretion of the end-user and should not replace a doctor’s opinion. Breastfeeding is a skill and can take time to learn; don’t get discouraged if it’s not easy for you at first.  Breastfeeding educators are available and can be helpful in overcoming some of the hurdles. Choosing to breastfeed your child provides many benefits for both you and your baby. Some of these include: Decreased likelihood of baby getting sick from infectious diseases or having an ear infection Decreased risk of breast and ovarian cancer for the mother Aids in faster weight loss for the mother Decreased postpartum bleeding Facilitates in mother-baby bonding Free and environmentally friendly Decreased risk of obesity for the child Breastfeeding is still possible after breast surgeries, piercings and tattoos; talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have How to breastfeed The following information is to be used as a guide to and at the discretion of the end-user and should not replace a doctor’s opinion. Some simple tips on how to breastfeed: Find a position that is comfortable for both you and the baby; use pillows to support your arms and prop your feet up Feed your baby whenever they seem hungry or show any of the hunger signs- moving head towards your chest, pulling hands near mouth or sucking noises Newborns need to eat at least every 2 to 3 hours; if your baby has been sleeping for 3 to 4 hours, wake them to nurse Wait to introduce a bottle or pacifier until your baby is 2 to 4 weeks old to avoid nipple confusion. Waiting much longer can create problems getting your baby to accept something other than the breast. Keeping your breasts healthy The following information is to be used as a guide to and at the discretion of the end-user and should not replace a doctor’s opinion. Keeping your breasts healthy during breastfeeding is important.  Here are some things to watch for: Sore nipples are normal at first; use moist warm compresses, nipple creams made for breastfeeding or a bit of fresh breast milk See your doctor if soreness continues or increases, you have a swollen or red breast or if you are running a fever

October 13, 2023

PBL: A game-changer in overcoming math anxiety

Mathematics is a crucial subject that permeates our daily lives – from managing finances to solving complex problems in various fields, mathematics is everywhere. However, for many of us the thought of dealing with mathematical concepts can trigger feelings of dread and anxiety. This phenomenon is commonly known as math anxiety. Fortunately, one effective approach to alleviating math anxiety is through Project-Based Learning (PBL).  Understanding Math Anxiety Math anxiety is more than just a dislike for math. It is a psychological phenomenon that can cause physical and emotional distress when faced with any math-related tasks – regardless of whether you’re a learner or an adult. Symptoms may include a racing heart, sweaty palms, avoidance behaviour and negative self-talk.  Math anxiety can hinder one’s ability to learn and perform well in math-related subjects, leading to lower self-esteem and reduced confidence. But here is the really interesting thing, says Mr Lawrence Bete, Head of the Mathematics Department at Future Nation Schools, math anxiety does not only affect those who struggle with maths. High achievers can also suffer from it as they feel pressured to maintain high standards of academic excellence; struggle with perfectionism, over-thinking and competitiveness; as well as worry about how their maths grade might hinder their career aspirations.  One effective way to help learners who struggle with maths anxiety improve their mathematical understanding and build their confidence is to teach them using a PBL approach, adds Mampho Langa, Head of Schools at Future nation Schools. This is because PBL, as a learner-centred teaching method, shifts the focus from traditional rote memorisation and repetitive problem-solving to a more engaging and interactive learning experience where learners explore complex topics, solve real-world problems and apply critical thinking skills in a way that is active, collaborative and hands-on. Six ways PBL helps overcoming math anxiety Real-world relevance: PBL introduces maths in a real-world context. This helps learners see the practical applications of the concepts they are learning (no more wondering “when will I ever use this in real-life”) and can make maths feel less abstract and more meaningful. In doing so, PBL reduces the anxiety associated with maths’ perceived complexity. Multidisciplinary learning: PBL integrates multiple subjects, demonstrating that mathematics is not isolated but interconnected with other fields. This interdisciplinary approach can make maths feel more approachable and less intimidating. Active engagement: PBL actively engages learners in the learning process. Instead of passively receiving information, learners take ownership of their learning by identifying problems, formulating questions and seeking solutions. This shift from passive to active learning can help reduce anxiety by promoting a sense of control as well as reshaping attitudes toward maths.  Collaboration: PBL fosters collaboration and peer support. Learners are encouraged to work together to solve math-related challenges, share their ideas and learn from one another’s strengths. Collaborative learning can reduce feelings of isolation and fear associated with math.  Flexibility and creativity: PBL encourages creativity and allows learners to approach problems in their unique ways. This flexibility reduces the pressure to conform to a single “correct” method and helps learners build confidence in their problem-solving abilities.  Progress monitoring: PBL involves ongoing assessment and feedback, allowing learners to track their progress in real-time versus tracking progress only through assessments and exams. This continuous feedback loop helps learners identify areas where they need improvement and celebrate their successes and mitigates anxiety stemming from uncertainty about their abilities.  Math anxiety can be a significant barrier to learning and success in mathematics-related subjects. However, utilising PBL can turn maths from a subject that learners approach with fear and apprehension to one that they view as an exciting journey of exploration and discovery that has relevance to their daily lives.  For more about how PBL is unlocking the future of mathematics education at Future Nation Schools, watch our recent FutureTalk Webinar.  

October 13, 2023

BUILDING READING SKILLS AT HOME

Reading is an important activity that everyone can be involved in. Not only does it help to expand knowledge, but it can also be a ton of fun! If your child has no interest in reading, there are a variety of ways to help them start building reading skills at home. It may be a challenge to encourage reading with reluctant readers or even ones who are frustrated by reading. We put together a list of tactics that can help build reading skills and inspire children to find enjoyment in doing so. Here are some ways to build reading skills at home: 1. Offer Different Reading Options Be sure to provide your children with a variety of reading options. They may be more inspired to read books about certain topics or genres, as well as books of varying lengths. Having a few to choose from will give them the opportunity to explore their interests and find something they enjoy. 2. Set Aside Time to Read Setting time aside to read is great for anyone, any age! Show your children that it’s important to make time to read for fun by doing so yourself. Seeing you read will help to encourage their own reading and can even become a part of your family routine. 3. Read Aloud Reading aloud can be fun for the reader and the listener. Take turns reading aloud by using different voices and reading in an interesting way. While it may seem silly at first, this can help build excitement and curiosity for the story. It can even make the reading experience more fun and inspire them to read more on their own to get better at their story telling! 4. Use dictionaries (traditional or online) and flashcards If your child is coming across words that are unfamiliar try looking up these words in a traditional dictionary or online to discover the meaning. Online dictionaries usually have the added feature of being able to play a soundbite to hear the correct pronunciation. Your child could then write the definitions onto flashcards to help them remember the meaning. Knowing the meaning and pronunciation will help them read more fluently as they build their vocabulary and spelling skills. (An added benefit of using a traditional dictionary is learning about alphabetical order and how to find words in this way.) 5. Define Reading Goals Whether it’s learning 5 new words, reading a chapter book, or even reading 10 books over a period of time, there are tons of ways you can set your reading goals. Talk with your child about different goals they may have and help them set these. Depending on their age, you could use a star chart or some similar tracking system to recognise and reward achievement. 6. Participate in Reading Challenges or Activities There are a variety of reading challenges available online (for example: https://growingbookbybook.com/reading-challenges-for-kids/). Many of these challenges can be done at home and even incorporated into reading goals. It’s fun for children to have something to follow along with and be encouraged to read. You can also do different activities such as acting out scenes of the book or having them draw their favourite scene to encourage them to think through the story in a new perspective.  7. Ask Questions About the Book It’s beneficial to have discussions about the book before, during and after reading the book. This helps them get interested in the story before reading it and then keeps them engaged as they read the story. After the story concludes, it’s interesting for them to see what they learned or what they found most interesting from the book. Asking questions will keep engagement up and also get them thinking more analytically about what they read. 8. Join a Supplemental Reading Programme Another way to build reading skills is to join a reading programme that is individualized for your child. A programme that considers your child’s comfortable starting point while continuously building their reading and writing skills. The Kumon English Programme does just that and can be incorporated into your daily reading routine. There are also tons of Recommended Reading List options to take away the guesswork of books that accommodate your child’s skills best. The Takeaway – Have Fun! Most importantly, building reading skills at home can be a lot of fun! As your children begin to explore new books, learn new words, and strengthen their skills, they will develop more confidence and be inspired to read independently. The confidence they build from regular reading practice will help your child develop a lifelong love of reading! This article is taken directly from the KUMON NORTH AMERICA website:  https://www.kumon.com/resources/building-reading-skills-at-home/

October 12, 2023

Join the Bug Boogie Dance Party with Cartoonito’s Brand-New Show, Lu & The Bally Bunch

Little bugs learn big lessons in feelings, friendship and fun as Lu & the Bally Bunch flutters onto Cartoonito Africa on Monday, 9 October.   Join Lu & the Bally Bunch on their school journey filled with music, laughter, and lots of fun! Created by Oscar®-nominated director Nicky Phelan, Lu & the Bally Bunch is about a little ladybird named Lu who has just started preschool with her new friends. Together, they explore their brand-new social lives through play, music, big feelings, and even bigger fun. As an only child, Lu is used to being the centre of her universe. Having just started preschool, she’s learning that sharing space with five other centres of the universe has its challenges. Exploring the everyday dramas of life in school, Lu & the Bally Bunch is a funny and affectionate look at Lu and her friends – Barnaby, Biba, Declan, Elodie and Gus – as they learn how to get along with each other in their new social setting. Inspired by Nicky Phelan’s memories of helping his mum in her own preschool, Lu & the Bally Bunchcelebrates the joy, drama and humour of young schoolers learning to share space. There’s nothing as funny as seeing a bunch of three-year-olds fail to navigate each other and nothing as heart-warming as seeing them learn to get along. Set in Ballybug, a small village home to a community of bugs, Lu and her friends attend Shella Kabooky’s Shell School. Shella, a snail, is the wise and kind teacher of the preschool housed in her shell. Inspired by the teachings of Montessori, Shella guides the bugs through games, play and learning with a gentle, kid-led approach. Under Shella’s watchful eye, Lu and her friends learn to laugh and play together. Lu & the Bally Bunch highlights the high-stakes drama of navigating first friendships with real children’s voices, heartfelt humour, and dramatic stories that play out in real-time. The series features real-life and authentic scenarios that young kids deal with as they go to school for the first time, with lessons in social-emotional learning and conflict resolution. Produced by 9 Story’s award-winning studio, Brown Bag Films, with the participation of Warner Bros. Discovery and CBC Kids, Lu & the Bally Bunch was created by Brown Bag Films’ director, Nicky Phelan (Vampirina, Bing, Octonauts), Oscar®-nominated for his short film Granny O’Grimm’s Sleeping Beauty. Phelan also directed the series. Join Lu & the Bally Bunch on their journey with music, laughter, and fun, premiering exclusively onCartoonito Africa, weekdays at 17:10 CAT, from Monday, 9 October.

October 9, 2023

POKEMON SUN & MOON- Ash in Aloha

What starts as a summer vacation in the tropical Alola region becomes the next exciting chapter in Ash Ketchum’s quest to become a Pokémon Master! There’s plenty for Ash and Pikachu to explore, exciting new Pokémon to discover and interesting people to learn from along the way—including the cool Professor Kukui and the fun-loving Samson Oak.  More new faces will help guide Ash’s Alolan adventure, in skilled Trainers Kiawe, Lana, Mallow, and Sophocles—and a mysterious research assistant called Lillie. It’s not all set to go Ash Ketchum’s way, though – familiar foes, Team Rocket, have also made their way to Alola and are joined by new challenges, Team Skull.  Premiere: Monday, 9 October @ 17:30 CAT ⏰ Tune in: Mondays – Fridays @ 17:30 CAT Also available on DStv Catch Up

October 9, 2023

LU & THE BALLY BUNCH – Ladybird Lu

Lu is a ladybird who has started school at Ms Shella’s Shell School with her new friends in the village of Ballybug. Lu and her ‘Bally Bunch’ of five insect classmates learn how to laugh, play, and navigate their new social lives together at school, dealing with the ups and downs of getting along and sharing a new space with other children and learning about one of life’s most important skills – how to be a friend.  Inspired by creator Nicky Phelan’s memories of helping his mum in her own preschool, there’s nothing as funny as seeing a bunch of three-year-olds fail to navigate each other and nothing as heart-warming as seeing them learn to get along.  Premiere: Monday, 9 October @ 17:40 CAT ⏰ Tune in: Mondays – Fridays @ 17:40 CAT Also available on DStv Catch Up

October 9, 2023

South Africans know Vim™ Scouring Powder as their tried and trusted, extremely tough-cleaning household care brand.

Unilever South Africa announces that VIM™ Multi-Purpose Scourer is back on shelf with it’s new look. The 500ml Multi-Purpose scouring powder is available in two different scented scourer powders; Lemon and Lavender.  VIM™ multipurpose scourer is designed to be used on sinks, baths, basins, toilet bowls, ceramic tiles, cookers, pots, pans and other working surfaces in and around the home. VIM™ scouring action lifts grease and stains from pots and pans leaving them sparkling clean. The Extra Strong formulation keeps your toilet clean and smelling fresh. You can use VIM™ after every bath to take the grime off your tub. VIM™ also helps keep your whole bathroom smelling fresh. VIM™ scours floors lifting dirt and putting the shine back onto tiled and ceramic surfaces. The bottle is made from 100% recycled materials and is 100% recyclable. You remove the label and recycle is at your nearest plastic recycle bin.   Ammarah Chand, Brand Manager of Hard Surface Cleaners at Unilever South Africa, said: “We had an overwhelming response to the discontinuation of VIM™ in South Africa, I am just delighted that we could bring our customers the VIM™ they have always trusted back on shelf and widely available.”  Additional Product Info No bleach in product.  Formulation pH 11 Alkaline  

October 6, 2023

DEALING WITH KIDS AND PREGNANCY

Dealing with pregnancy can be tricky on its own, but when you have a toddler or young kids to look after things can become more difficult. If this is your second pregnancy, you may be struggling with morning sickness, fatigue and a tired achy body and still having to look after another young child.  You’re probably wondering how to manage, so we’ve put together some useful tips to help you the second time around. Be patient with them and yourself It’s important that you’re patient with your child. Initially, they may not understand the pregnancy which can make them act out in confusion. Getting them involved and feeling like a big sibling can help them to feel excited about the new addition to the family. That being said you should also be patient with yourself. You may be feeling unwell due to your pregnancy, and with looking after another child you may find things falling by the wayside. It’s likely that only you will notice these things, so don’t be too hard on yourself. Playtime for you and them  You might not always be feeling up to playtime with your little one, so this is a good time to encourage them to play independently. This way you free up a little bit more time for yourself while keeping them entertained. As your pregnancy progresses, play in ways that you can manage. Instead of running around, focus on board games, drawing and puzzles. Allowing a little bit of screen time (even together) is another way you can easily entertain your kids. Help and schedules Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you have a partner, they are the obvious person to lend a hand, but if you are by yourself, either reach out to close family or consider getting paid help for part of the day.  Another way to find some time for yourself is to nap when your toddler naps. Syncing up your sleep schedules may mean that you find yourself a little bit more rest time for when you’re feeling tired or nauseous. 

October 6, 2023

THE HEROIC QUEST OF THE VALIANT PRINCE IVANDOE -Prince in Peril

Accompanied by his loyal squire Bert, Prince Ivandoe sets off on a quest to Eagle Mountain through The Five Kingdoms to claim the legendary Golden Feather. So far, Prince Ivandoe has travelled from his home, the Kingdom of the Mighty Stag, through Svanland – the idyllic Land of the Swans, the rogue state of The Forest of the Outlaws, the Red Squirrel Kingdom – set high in the trees – and the Underground Kingdom of the Ogres, where King Ironhorn rules from a crumbling and this month, his journey takes him into the Underground castle.  These new episodes bring a lot of wacky adventures along, Prince Ivandoe’s unfortunate hiccups have an interesting twist on a wish granted by a Wishpillar. His squire Bert is thrust into the limelight when he pulls a mysterious sword from a stone, and and Prince Ivandoe and Bert are going to form a unlikely bond with a Sassy Gnome while trying to get him reunited with his brothers!  Premiere: Monday, 2 October @ 16:35 CAT ⏰ Tune in: Mondays – Fridays @ 16:35 CAT Also available on DStv Catch Up

October 2, 2023

Cartoon Network – MOVIES HOLIDAYS – Film Fun

Settle in for a CN Movie every day of the spring holidays. In Teen Titans Go! vs Teen Titans (2 October), The comedic Teen Titans take on their serious counterparts when villains from each of their worlds team up to pit the two Titan teams against each other. On 3 October, Best Bros Grizzly, Panda and Ice Bear go on a wild, hilarious and dangerous adventure to escape a foe that threatens to tear them apart in We Bare Bears: The Movie and on 4 October, DC Super Hero Girls: Legends of Atlantis sees Wonder Woman, Batgirl, Supergirl, Bumblebee and the rest of the Super Crew must journey through the depths of the ocean to Atlantis. On 5 October,Ben 10 vs The Universe: The Movie sees Ben go interstellar to save the day when Vilgax returns to do double the damage on Team Tennyson and planet Earth. To round things off on 6 October, two slacker groundskeepers must go back in time and battle an evil volleyball coach in order to save the universe after accidentally creating a Timenado in Regular Show: The Movie.  Tune-in: Monday, 2 October – Friday, 6 October @ 11:30 CAT

October 2, 2023

MOVIE STARS HOLIDAYS

Whether it’s Hibernation Rabbid heading for Mars on a misinformed adventure, Robin Hood needing a helping hand from Tom & Jerry to save himself and rescue Maid Marion or Scooby-Doo and the gang setting out to clear their names after being accused of plotting a practical joke, there’s something for everyone with some of the biggest stars on Cartoonito this spring school holiday! ⏰ Tune in: Monday, 2 October – Monday, 9 October @ 09:40 CAT 2 October: Rabbids Invasion: Mission to Mars 3 October: Tom and Jerry: Robin Hood and his Merry Mouse 4 October: Scooby-Doo! and the Samurai Sword 5 October: Tom & Jerry: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory  6 October: Looney Tunes Rabbits Run 7 October: Scooby-Doo! The Mystery Begins (Live action) 8 October: Scooby-Doo! Curse of the Lake Monster (Live action) 9 October: Kangaroo Jack: G’Day USA

October 2, 2023

Neonatal jaundice, what is it and what happens if my baby is born with it?

Jaundice is a yellow discolouration of a baby’s eyes and skin and is fairly common in newborn babies. Although it may be alarming to you to see your newborn baby with a slightly yellowish tint, thankfully, most cases of jaundice are considered normal and will go away on their own. You may be wondering why your baby may be born with this condition, or what treatments are available if your little-one has jaundice – read on, we outline the causes and common treatments thereof.  Why would my baby have neonatal jaundice?  Babies are born with neonatal jaundice when they have excess levels of unconjugated bilirubin in their blood. Bilirubin is a yellowy substance which comes from the breakdown of red blood cells, however, baby’s livers sometimes can’t break this substance down fast enough, giving their eyes and skin a yellow tint.  When your baby is born they will be checked for jaundice, as high levels of bilirubin can lead to more serious problems. A baby is more likely to get neonatal jaundice if they are born premature, have a different blood type to their mother or are being breastfed. Babies who are breastfed can develop jaundice if they don’t get enough breastmilk, due to trouble feeding.  What happens if my baby has neonatal jaundice? If your baby has jaundice, this will typically be seen in the second or third day of being born.  Sometimes jaundice will go away on its own and other times it will need to be treated. If your baby is struggling to breastfeed it’s important that he be breastfed more often, or even receive formula as a supplement during this time.  Phototherapy (light therapy)  can also be used to help your baby. Light can turn the bilirubin into a form that can easily pass out the body. If the jaundice is very bad, your baby may receive a blood transfusion which will quickly lower bilirubin levels. 

September 22, 2023

INTERSTELLAR ELLA – Weightless Wonders

In the year 3021, on a space station somewhere between Mars and Jupiter in the Milky Way, 8-year-old Ella Ryder sets out with her friends on exciting adventures of discovery. And because they are in space, there’s lots to experience and even more to explore!  This month, the team encounters solar flares, huge moon craters, spectacular giant red stars and crashes on a trip to a rogue planet! Slippy tries to hide his inventions away on the dark side of Mercury, Ella’s Dad tries to fix Glitch’s arms and the gang play a star-riddle game that’s a tradition in Slippy’s family.     Premiere: Monday, 18 September @ 15:10 CAT ⏰ Tune in: Mondays – Fridays @ 15:10 CAT Also available on DStv Catch Up

September 18, 2023

BATMAN DAY & TEEN TITANS GO! MARATHON – When in Doubt, Be Batman

The third Saturday of September is observed globally as Batman Day, which marks the anniversary of the first-ever appearance of the character in Detective Comics #27 in May 1939. To celebrate, we’ve put together an epic day ofLEGO DC movies and Teen Titans GO! episodes on 16 September that’s sure to unleash the Caped Crusader in all of us! We’ll kick off with LEGO Batman: DC Superheroes Unite, LEGO DC Batman: Family Matters, LEGO DC Comics Super Heroes: Justice League: Gotham City Breakout, and LEGO DC Comics: Batman Be-Leaguered before swinging into an all-action Teen Titans GO! Batman marathon.  Premiere: Saturday, 16 September from 08:50 CAT

September 15, 2023

BATMAN DAY WITH THE BATWHEELS – Bigger, Better, Batwheels

Celebrate Batman Day by diving into a special themed Cartoonito marathon, featuring the best of the Batwheels and all their crazy Gotham City adventures.  Tune in on Saturday, 16 September, from 08:30 for Secret Origins of the Batwheels and Batwheels episodes 2, 18 & 30 from Season 1, with special appearances by Batman himself! ⏰ Tune in: Saturday, 16 September @ 08:30 CAT

September 15, 2023
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