TIPS TO HELP YOUR TEETHING BABY

While teething can be uncomfortable for your baby, Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, says there are ways to make your baby’s teething experience more bearable. “Teething occurs when your baby’s teeth protrude through the gum line. It’s also known as odontiasis,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “Every baby is different when it comes to teething. However, your baby will likely get their first tooth during their first year.” When Do Babies Begin To Teeth? Some babies begin teething before the age of four months, while others start after the age of twelve months. However, most babies begin teething around the age of six months. Symptoms Of Teething Baby teeth can sometimes emerge without any pain or discomfort. At times, however, teething can cause your baby to be irritable and uncomfortable. Signs that your baby is teething include: Sore and red gums where the tooth is coming through A mild temperature (less than 38 degrees Celsius) Flushed cheeks A rash on their face Rubbing their ears Dribbling more than usual Gnawing and chewing on things more than usual Restlessness Irritability   “Teething can be painful, but it rarely causes babies to become ill,” adds Hewlett. “If your baby has diarrhoea, vomiting, body rashes, a higher fever, or cough and congestion, contact your doctor. These are not typical teething symptoms. You should also contact a paediatrician if your baby’s gums are bleeding or if you notice any pus or swelling on their face. What is the order of appearance of baby teeth?” The Order Milk Teeth Appear The following is a rough guide to how babies’ teeth typically emerge: Bottom incisors (bottom front teeth): These teeth are usually the first to appear at around five to seven months. Top incisors (top front teeth): These appear around six to eight months. Lateral incisors (either side of the top front teeth): These appear around nine to 11 months. Bottom lateral incisors (either side of the bottom front teeth): These appear around 10 to 12 months. First molars (back teeth): The majority of children will have all of their back molars by the age of two or three. When and how teeth appear varies from baby to baby and may be influenced by family history. Eventually, 20 milk teeth will emerge. 8 Ways To Calm a Teething Baby What soothes one baby might not work for another, so you might need to try different things to make your child feel better. Bananas, apples, and carrots can be frozen and gnawed on by your teething baby for pain relief and a tasty treat. To avoid choking hazards, crush the food and place it in a baby-safe mesh feeder once the teeth have emerged. Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory that soothes the nerve endings in the gums, which helps to relieve teething pain. Rub a slice of peeled ginger over your baby’s gums for two or three minutes for the best results. Cloves contain oils that are warming and numbing. Combine ground cloves with water, coconut oil, or unsalted butter to make a paste that can be rubbed on the gums. Allow your baby to chew on a damp washcloth for a cool, numbing sensation. To add some interest, tie one end of the cloth in a knot before freezing it, or soak it in chamomile tea instead of water. Because they are nearly bite-proof, firm rubber and unfinished wooden teething rings are ideal for older teethers. Avoid liquid-filled teethers because they can break under pressure. And, of course, make sure that the ones you buy are BPA-free Chill a metal spoon in the refrigerator for a few hours and give it to your baby to suck on.  Use your index finger to rub and massage your infant’s gums gently. Allow them to gnaw on your big knuckle if you’re brave (and they don’t have too many teeth). Rub your baby’s face, jaw, and gums in a circular motion several times daily. This treatment may be ineffective in some babies but may be effective in others. A Word On Teething Necklaces  You may have heard that heated amber teething necklaces release a pain reliever. That has not been proven, and doctors advise against using one. “Teething necklaces, in general, are not recommended by paediatricians,” says Hewlett. “They’re dangerous because they have the potential to strangle your baby. They can also choke if the necklace breaks and the beads are swallowed.” If you do decide to use one, make sure that you: Put it on the baby’s wrist or ankle, not around their neck. Always keep an eye on your child while they are wearing it. Take it away whenever you are not watching your baby, even for a short period.

May 12, 2023

MY CHILD IS SCARED AND KEEPS GETTING OUT OF HIS BED

I received the following question in an email from a parent:  “Our son is three years old and for the past three months he has not been sleeping well. Depending on the night, it can take numerous attempts to get him to go to sleep and then when he does, he wakes up every 3 hours or so and it can take a while for him to go back to sleep.  He never had any issues with sleep prior to this. His father and I are married and have a great loving relationship and nothing has changed in our family at all over the past year. What thoughts do you have for us in dealing with his sleep issues?” Here is my reply to this parent: Children go through different phases throughout their childhood and sometimes their behavior doesn’t make sense to us.  They could see something scary quickly, hear adults talking about something alarming or a friend at school might tell them something that bothers them.  The most important thing for you to do is to remain calm around this issue.  When children see their parents acting calm and not appearing anxious, it can actually help them calm down as well.  Here are a few things you can do right away. DO SOMETHING AS A FAMILY IN THE HOUR OR TWO BEFORE HIS BEDTIME.  I know it can be difficult for working parents, but make time for it anyway. Spend time together reading a book, playing a quiet game, or talking. This loving activity will help him to feel loved and know that his family is OK. IDENTIFY THE PRIMARY ACTIVITIES AT BEDTIME AND SEE THAT THEY HAPPEN.  With him, create a visual list of what he needs to do: potty, get PJs on, a story, teeth brushing, and a drink of water. Creating a visual list will help create sameness and routine. Children with more sameness and routine in their lives feel more comforted and calm. I love the product called SCHKIDULES (http://www.schkidules.com) because they allow parents to create visual routines for little and big children. GUIDE HIM BACK SILENTLY EACH TIME HE GETS OUT OF BED.  Tell him in advance that starting tonight, after he gets tucked into bed, one parent will guide him back to his bed and they will not be able to speak to him. Role play this. Make believe to tuck him into bed and then when he gets out, calmly and lovingly (without speaking) guide him back to his bed and leave the room immediately. Remember, no talking to the child when he gets out of bed after being officially tucked in.  But be sure and smile and lovingly return him to his bed immediately and then leave his room. Do this whether he wakes while you’re up or after you go to sleep.  Your job is to create sameness, routine and to draw boundaries and follow through.

May 12, 2023

3 POWERFUL METHODS FOR HANDLING CHALLENGING BEHAVIOUR

When I deliver a live parent lecture, I sometimes ask my audience to raise their hand if their parents used punishment when they misbehaved. Most hands go up, revealing that punishment was a common parenting tool back in the day. Since that time, society has determined that punitive treatment of our children is no longer acceptable. Researchers have also determined that children who are punished are more likely to have low self-esteem and experience depression or even suicidal thoughts as adults. Many of today’s parents also understand how important the experience during the early years of childhood contribute to the success of their children in their adult years. This includes how happy they are, how well they seek out healthy living habits, and how well they are able to select other healthy adults into their lives. So if you want to set your child up for success, here are just a few suggestions on how to handle challenging behaviors with your children. This does not serve as a complete list, but simply a few suggestions to get you started. FIND A FUN WAY TO GET YOUR NEEDS MET. Sometimes a parent is on a mission to accomplish some task and his children are making it difficult by demonstrating uncooperative behavior. Ask yourself, “What fun can I add to this moment that will provide some cooperation. One day I was bound and determined to get the leaves raked up in the yard and my kids did not want to help. Instead of getting angry, yelling and punishing them, I issued a challenge to my three kids: WHOEVER COULD RAKE UP THE LARGES PILE OF LEAVES WOULD GET THROWN INTO IT. The kids immediately ran out into the yard to begin raking. My goal was accomplished GIVE YOUR CHILD A SENSE OF VALUE. A woman shared with me that her son would act out and misbehave whenever she was busy in the kitchen preparing for a big meal for a family gathering. Perhaps the boy felt as if he was competing with the kitchen activities for his mom’s attention. I told her to make a list of all the guests who will be coming to dinner, and have the boy create a drawing on a large 8.5″ x 17″ piece of paper, specifically for each of those individuals. Those drawing will be the placemats placed at each place setting. After the dinner is completed and the dishes are cleared, the little boy gets to explain what each drawing means to the person he drew it for. GIVE YOUR CHILD A CHOICE. Demanding a child to do something immediately doesn’t work in this modern age. It did back when we were young because it was a different time with a different style of parenting. Most of us were raised by autocratic parents who issued demands regularly and we were expected to comply. So instead of issuing commands to your child, give them a choice related to completing the task. Instead of saying, “Go brush your teeth!”, say, “Would you like me to brush your teeth or would you like to do it yourself?”

May 11, 2023

NICU and Milk supply

The first few days after giving birth are very important in setting up your milk supply, particularly if your baby is born early. Starting your milk supply without a baby drinking directly from your breast can be done. It does take commitment and effort but it most certainly can be done. In this blog, I will give you tips to help you and also the reason as to why they will work.  Firstly if your baby is born early you still need to get your milk production up to its maximum by week two. This is to ensure that you are able to meet your baby’s needs as she grows and gets older. The amount of expressed breast milk that you are aiming to express is between 750-1100ml per 24 hours at 2 weeks for a singleton. An interesting fact to note is that your baby will not need more milk than this as they age. The composition of your breast milk will change according to your baby’s needs but not the volume. So once you have reached this goal you are set for the rest of your breastfeeding experience.  So how do you get your milk supply up in such a short time and with everything else that is going on in the NICU?  The first step is to start pumping as soon as possible. The guideline is to start pumping within the first 6 hours after birth. This target is important, as it is, your body is primed to start with breastfeeding. If for any reason you were not able to start within this time, start anyway, often there are reasons for the delayed starting that are out of a mom’s control: surgery, recovery from the birth, ill health, not having a breast pump or knowing how to hand express. The reason that you need to start expressing is you need to let your body know that you have a baby to feed and it will respond. Your body has been primed during pregnancy for breastfeeding but now it needs the nipple stimulation that is associated with breastfeeding and pumping to start up your “milk-making factory”. The nipple stimulation gets your prolactin levels higher which is the milk-making hormone. You need to maintain high levels of prolactin in order to keep your “milk factory” working. The second step which is actually more important than when you started expression, is how often your express in 24 hours. Your goal should be 8 to 12 times, with no longer than a 5-hour break for your evening sleep. This strict regime of pumping is so that you are imitating how a newborn would be feeding. It imitates how your nipples would be stimulated and increases and keeps the prolactin levels high so that your breast milk factory (the breasts) keeps on producing milk. With time you will see your milk change from colostrum to transitional milk and then mature milk.  Don’t forget to pump at night. Night pumping is very important as your prolactin levels are higher at night and as a result, your breasts will then respond to the stimulation better. This can become an issue for a mother that needs sleep and is not able to maintain a 3 hourly schedule of pumping through out the night. In this case, the recommendation is that the mother pump just before she sleeps and as soon as she wakes up with no longer than a 5-hour break between pumping. Sleeping is also important in the process of making breast milk and sleep can be very beneficial in helping you with your milk production.  Make sure that you are pumping efficiently and effectually in the shortest amount of time. This is because it is better to pump 8 times a day for 20 minutes and 4 times a day for 60  minutes. Some mothers find that if they wait longer, they can express more in a session- this is the beginning of weaning as the breast will be stimulated less and less resulting in a decrease in milk production over the 24 hours. It is better to keep to more often pumping with an effective Double electric hospital-grade breast pump that is a closed system like the Ameda Mya Joy. An added bonus is that the Mya Joy is very quiet and portable. There is even an option to make the pump, hands-free as well.  When pumping make sure that all your breast pump parts are clean, sterilised, and in working order. You may need to replace the valves over time as these are the parts that wear the most.  Focus on your happy place- while you re pumping. This can be your baby, looking at a  photograph or a video. However, some mothers might find this stressful to see their baby in NICU with all the tubes and monitors so they may benefit from focusing on a different happy place. It really is an individual focus that will help you to get your milk flowing. You may even try hands-on pumping which in some cases has shown to improve the milk volume at the end of a pump.  Focus on these 5 tips to help you to get your breast milk supply up and flowing while your baby is in NICU. As soon as you are able to take advantage of skin-to-skin and how it can help you to increase your milk supply. It is also a lovely way to spend time with your baby. 

May 11, 2023

How to assist your child in developing their language of learning

Mom is strolling around the supermarket with a six-month-old infant in the baby seat. Not once does she engage in eye contact, talk to the child or even smile. When the baby becomes restive, a dummy is thrust in his mouth without a word spoken. Contrast this with a dad in a fruit and veg store, with an infant of similar age. At every display he picks up a fruit, lets the baby touch and smell it and talks about the name of it, the colour and how good it tastes. Not hard to know which of these babies will develop a good language as he grows. Babies develop language through constant face to face engagement with a trusted care giver. These days many infants are left in the hands of untrained nannies who are too busy listening to music on their earphones or talking on their cell.  The foundations of language are laid in utero and beyond. Two-year old’s who have been deprived of stimulating language are already developmentally behind their peers and the gap grows, requiring expensive therapeutic intervention before formal school entry. Adding to this language gap, we now place the child into a school where the language of learning is different and expect that the new language will be acquired rapidly-because that’s what we pay fees for! What is not understood is that a second language is based on the first. Almost like making a photocopy. If the original is poor, the copy will be too. Home language is important, but make it rich by talking, singing and reading to the baby/toddler. TV and tablets do not teach language, it is a reciprocal process. If someone in the home is fluent in the proposed language of learning, they should be doing all the above in that language, from day one. Babies are pre-programmed to learn as many as 4 languages simultaneously, AS LONG AS EACH LANGUAGE IS SPOKEN BY THE SAME PERSON. Granny can speak Sotho, Mum isiZulu and Dad English, but they must stick to their language until the child is at least 3. Don’t mix languages, this just results in language soup! Besides talking, singing and playing with the child, using a rich vocabulary, you should be reading to the baby from a very early age. Initially use board books with clear pictures that relate directly to the child’s home environment. Talk about the pictures, relate them to real objects if possible and let the baby touch them when you name them. Expand the range of books as the baby grows and by two, join the local library. A weekly visit in search of a new book will become a highlight. You will of course have taught the child how to handle books respectfully! Yes, you can use a tablet, but these are too heavy for young babies to handle and hold. Books in many of our official languages are scares, but you can translate! But what if my child is only speaking one language when he enters school? In this situation, parents will have to work hard to support the school. Here, a tablet can be useful as you can find good apps for simple songs that will help your child acquire the rhythm of the new language. Find books that have a picture with details of familiar rooms at home, animals, toys etc. to help your child learn as many new words as they are capable of, revising them daily. Use full sentences: “Look at the big red car. Let’s count the wheels. Let’s drive your car across the floor Does your car have four wheels? Your car can go fast. Can you make it go slowly?” Young children learn by doing and including plenty of action as you talk will help the learning process. If possible, enrol you child in language enrichment classes, or form groups and engage a good tutor. Find out what theme/inquiry your child is doing at school and link your support to it. Ask the teacher for a list of important vocabulary to practice. In order to cope well in Grade 1, a child needs a cognitive and perceptual vocabulary. Colour/number/shape/size/position in space/sounds in words etc. etc. School curriculums are available on line, which will help you keep pace. Playing with peers is a great help in learning a new language. Children can play without language, and for a couple of months they may just listen but will soon be joining in and may talk more in play than they do in class. If your child has difficulty acquiring the language of learning, talk to a speech and language therapist and get advice. Therapy before the age of six will pay dividends and results will be much faster than if you wait until troubles loom in Grade 1 and negatively affect learning to read. Lastly, make your child’s life as interesting as possible. Visit the zoo, animal parks, farms etc. as often as possible. Be with your child, not in the restaurant taking you ease, and talk, talk, talk. After the visit encourage your child to draw a picture and tell you what he saw. Going to one of our numerous eating venues and handing the child over to the resident nannies is wasting precious language time. Sitting together, talking about the food and having family conversation is making the most of the outing. By Barbara Eaton (Academic Development Co-ordinator for Junior Colleges)

May 10, 2023

You’re Pregnant! Now what? What to expect when you are expecting and knowing your rights as a new Mom

Every second four babies are born somewhere in the world. Most births are usually preceded by the most popular question: Is it a boy or a girl?  In South Africa, 1 million births took place in 2021 with the most popular choice of birth names being Lethabo and Melokuhle according to Statistics South Africa, both of which represent positive connotations of love and acceptance. And, did you know that statistically, slightly more boys are born than girls with the World Health Organisation stating that around 105 boys are born per 100 girls. Whether you choose to find out the sex of your foetus at your 20-week ultrasound appointment and throw a celebratory baby naming ceremony with friends and family or; you prefer to be surprised on the day of your delivery, it will undoubtedly be a watershed moment. No one forgets the day they turned into a bona fide parent responsible for building and strengthening the mother-father-and-child bond through everyday love and caring.  As a parent, you will want what is best for your baby from day one. With 30 years of clinical experience in baby feeding, Philips Avent has been designing and manufacturing solutions to meet your needs developed through extensive research, clinical trials and, even more importantly by listening to parents like you. While developing innovations based on a deep understanding of mom and baby physiology, we are here to support you every step of the way. Preparing for Birth Not everyone is gifted with the opportunity to fall pregnant and deliver a child into the world. When you do fall pregnant however you also realise that your growing belly doesn’t come with a manual for life. Rather, you are the manual, and it is your responsibility to look after yourself first and then your child in the best conceivable way.  It is your turn now to step up to being the ‘Mom know best’ in your life, while gathering information along your journey, finding support, asking questions and using the best tools for loving, nurturing, nourishing and growing that new life inside of you which carries fifty percent of its DNA from Mom and the other half from Dad.     Self-care When you test positive for a baby, your physical body immediately gets to work and you will notice changes such as weight gain, backache, and fluid retention as the pressure of your growing womb affects the blood flow in your legs.  Gestation is not only a time for your baby to grow and develop but for you to become more conscious and attentive to the needs of you and your body. Self-care means resting when you are tired, cutting out junk foods and food cravings, walking or stretching daily to strengthen your body in preparation for the birth and preparing your home nest to receive a new member who will fit into your everyday routines as seamlessly as possible. Trimester Checklists The first trimester is the most important period of your baby’s development. This is when your baby’s structure and organs develop. Most miscarriages and birth defects occur during this uncertain period and your body also undergoes major changes. First Trimester Essentials: Week 1 – 13: Start taking a prenatal vitamin and avoid unsafe foods such as raw eggs, deli meat and raw fish. Stop smoking, drinking alcohol and reduce your caffeine intake.  Stay hydrated and try to fit in at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. Settle on a gynaecologist, midwife, or other prenatal care provider  Check your medical aid insurance to see if it covers prenatal care and delivery Schedule your first prenatal appointment usually around the 8-week mark Talk to your doctor or midwife about prenatal testing to check for genetic defects and HIV. Check your finances, the costs of your baby and how maternity leave will impact you. Start a budget and a savings plan. Discuss your parenting ideas with your partner and agree on how you want to raise your child and research parenting and prenatal classes you can sign up for together. You Have a Baby! Now What? Following the birth, the first ten days with your newborn at home will prove to be as big a learning curve as it was on initially hearing you were pregnant. Don’t panic, this is where your instincts get to kick in and perform at their best. If you don’t have a mom, sister, or doula to support you, here are a few practical tips for your baby’s healthy development: Do as much skin to skin contact as possible. Your baby loves feeling, hearing, and smelling your presence which gives them a sense of protection and calm. Hug, touch, talk and stroke your child as much as possible. Within only a few days, your newborn can start smiling back when people smile at them. Breastmilk wins every time.  Mother’s milk is pure elixir to babies helping them to grow properly and develop their immune systems. Breast pumping is an easy and practical method for modern mums to bring in your milk and ensure you supply enough breast milk at every feed and for the two-year mandated breastfeeding period while juggling life and a career.  Embrace every moment and love every challenge with the Philips Avent Electric Breast pump which offers a new era in expressing with a perfect balance of suction and nipple stimulation inspired by the natural way baby’s drink.  Communicate with your new-born. Talk to your child in soft tones and baby talk. You will notice they can hear and will soon start to memorise and copy your words. Understand why they are crying. A newborn baby is unable to look after itself and relies on you to attend to its needs. A baby will cry when hungry, if it has a soiled nappy, is tired, needs a cuddle, has wind, is too hot or cold, or is bored or overstimulated. TIP: Babies suckle to calm themselves. For babies with a strong need to

May 10, 2023

7 Gifts to Give Your Children Today that Will Help Them Tomorrow

Just because it’s wrapped in pretty paper doesn’t mean it’s valuable. It’s because sometimes the best gifts aren’t appreciated until a child is older.  Here are 7 gifts that are worthy of your financial or time investment today because they “pay off” (sometimes literally, sometimes figuratively) in the long run.   Responsibility. Have you ever met a child that has no chores? Whose parents do everything for him with little or no appreciation? Or who gets everything she wants AND an expensive gift for her birthday? Teaching your children responsibility is a gift! By coddling a child, you do them a disservice to be prepared for life outside the home. Encourage them to volunteer, help around the house, get a holiday-job, and take responsibility for their actions and their future. Teach them how to do a budget, the importance of paying their bills on time, keep commitments, keep promises made, and be punctual. Responsibility is as much about valuing yourself as it is about valuing others. It builds independence, which is crucial for relationships, tertiary studies, work life, and mental health. A savings account. Consider opening a savings account or purchasing savings bonds for your children. Although savings accounts don’t typically earn a ton of interest, you’ve got time on your side and an opportunity to teach your children the importance and value of saving money. Academic Coaching. Being able to learn independently and successfully applying your knowledge, are just two of a long list of benefits your children will receive from professional academic coaching. Unlike tutoring, which focuses on reteaching academic information, academic coaching focuses on building learning skills, strategies and tactics that enables a child to become an independent learner. Definitely a gift with life-long benefits. A love of reading. Do your children have a library card? Do they have access to paper books or e-books? Head to a used or new bookstore, create a local book exchange with other parents, or find out when the book store is having their next sale. Few loves will take them further in life than a love of reading!  Failure. Watching your child fail is hard, sometimes even heart breaking. But it’s a necessary part of life and knowing how to handle failure, a life skill every child should have. How else do they learn from their mistakes? Part of the beauty of failure is that it encourages us to take risks and learn that we can manage the results, no matter what they may be.  Memberships. Teaching your children what it means to be a member of a group or club, is a gift in itself. What better way to help them experience the joys, responsibilities and value a membership brings, than to encourage them to become a member of a (formal or informal) group or club? Being part of something bigger than themselves, taking ownership of their role within that group or club, and understanding that others are depending on them, are just a few of the gifts your children will receive. Your time. This is probably the most valuable gift of all. Eat dinner as a family. Read to your children at bedtime (or have them read to you). Go cycling, fishing, hiking or camping together, or just picnic and stargaze from your garden. Teach them to bake, have a family movie night at home, or tell each other silly jokes. Let them know, through your words AND your actions, that they are your greatest gifts!

May 9, 2023

YOGA AND PILATES FOR PREGNANT MOMS

Staying active during your pregnancy is another important way of staying healthy. Not only is exercise good for you physically, but it helps relieve stress, improve sleep and boost your mood. However, being pregnant, especially later on in your pregnancy, means that you’ll need to consider what exercise you’re doing. Contact and high-risk sports are a no-no, but if you are looking for a way to stay fit, prenatal yoga and pilates could be your answer. Why yoga and pilates? Prenatal yoga and pilates can help you strengthen your body, stop excess weight gain and help prepare your body for childbirth. Both are low impact and can be adjusted to suit you and your growing baby. During your pregnancy, you may experience backache, aching legs and abdominal pain. Providing nothing serious is wrong, yoga and pilates can help alleviate pain through strengthening your body. Prenatal yoga and pilates classes are specifically tailored to expecting moms, so should be completely safe unless you are recommended otherwise. Getting ready for birth  Not only can these practices help reduce stress and anxiety, but they can also help you during childbirth. The combo of stretching and strengthening your body should mean that your body is more equipped to deal with the stress of labour and birth. Strong core and pelvic will help support your spine and help you during birth. Joining prenatal yoga and pilates classes will help you connect with other expecting moms and, a professional can guide you through which poses are best for you throughout your pregnancy.  Not only can yoga help you physically, but the breathing techniques you’ve learnt can help calm and focus you during labour. Is there anything I should be cautious of or avoid?  Although good for you, there are still certain yoga and pilates poses and exercises that you should avoid during your pregnancy. If you are new to yoga and pilates,  most studios offer prenatal classes for beginners, and, if you are practising already you can probably continue with most of your practice, just let your instructor know you’re expecting – they can help you modify your routine. Things to be cautious of are hot yoga, full inversions (poses on your head), deep twists and exercises that cause you to crunch your abdominal cavity. Your body is in constant flux as your baby develops, meaning some days you’ll feel energised whereas otherwise will leave you feeling drained. Because of this, it’s important that you are aware of how your body is feeling while practising. If you notice anything unusual or painful it’s best to chat with your doctor.

May 8, 2023

HOW TO STOP CHILDREN FROM THROWING OBJECTS

When a young child throws an object, it’s a parent’s reactive response to scold the child and take that object away from him. He may then pick up another object and throw that one, pushing the adult to anger and frustration. And if he doesn’t do it again right away, his fear of the parent may stop his actions for the moment, only to have him do it at some point later on. A parent asked me for help with her child throwing a toy at the ceiling light in his room. Another one asked me how to stop her son from trying to get his sox and underwear hooked on the fins of the ceiling fan in his room. In each of these situations, the parent’s first response was to punish the child by making him pay for damage to the ceiling light fan or even emptying his room of all objects. I’m certainly not going to advise you to allow children to continue this destructive behaviour, nor am I going to suggest punishing the child. We’ve been trained by our own parents to use force or control to stop a behaviour we don’t like. That was the solution back when autocratic parenting was the norm; the all-powerful parent used punishment and fear to control a child’s behaviour. Instead of the authoritarian style of parenting that our parents used with us as children (expecting children to follow very strict rules unconditionally), today’s parents are encouraged to use an authoritative approach to parenting (a more child-centric view that includes more listening and less lecturing, the use of consequences instead of punishment, and encouraging independence and risk taking). Let’s examine the problem of throwing objects. Why do we want to stop it; because it’s a potentially destructive action that could result in damage or injury. But the act of throwing an object at a target is a normal desire for fun, especially for boys. Using punishment to control this is counterproductive to raising children with unconditional love. I say we should take a different approach in managing some behaviours, such as jumping, climbing, shouting, drawing, and throwing. I say we should create the conditions for a child to jump, climb, shout, draw or throw something in a fun, safe, and appropriate manner. In other words, set up a way for the child to throw something safe as a replacement for throwing the objects at the ceiling light fan. Forget about punishment or getting angry. Instead, get creative! Let’s say that you set up a safe way for your child to throw, such as with a bean bag toy and target set (see image of boys with bean bag toss game). If your child should suddenly one day throw something in an unsafe way, such as at his ceiling fan, react quickly and without words. Guide your child to the bean bag toss toy without yelling, reprimanding or getting angry, and say to him, “This is where you can throw things.” And if necessary, have someone help you remove the ceiling fan from his room until he gets much older. I urge you to take a closer look at a challenging behaviour you’d like to change and then ask yourself these questions: What is my child’s goal in this behaviour How can I help him/her get his/her needs met in a more appropriate way. This novel approach can easily eliminate or quell a challenging behaviour and also eliminate the need for punishment and other fear-based parenting tactics.

May 8, 2023

Cellphones, social media and your child’s mental wellbeing

Smartphones and tablets are here to stay. In fact, these devices are becoming an integral part of our future and the careers our children will eventually choose. We don’t want to deprive them from participating in the digital world, but as parents, we are concerned about the impact of cell phones, social media, and their online interactions on our children’s mental wellbeing.  Also, parents sometimes get stuck thinking about our children as the innocent toddlers and kids they were. The harder reality that we are faced with is that, even when we think they are ‘innocence impersonated’, they are subjected to an amount of peer-pressure and they participate in an online world that we cannot fully comprehend. Our children are exposed to an environment where they are constantly inundated with new apps, new online friends (who they have or have not met), new information and a new way of balancing their digital activity and reality.  Although we believe we can relate, we still talk about their “digital” and their “real” lives. The fact is that growing up in this age, children don’t have this distinction. To them, digital is part of their real lives. Let’s sit with that for a bit…  Most tweens and teenagers go through a phase of getting stuck in their minds rather than talk about everything. When they encounter events that bother them, whether in person or online, their first port of call may not be their parents. They fear that when they speak up about difficult situations and their parents try to intervene (or interfere), that the situation will get worse.  This could happen when they are being bullied or cyberbullied or when they have seen content that their minds can’t really deal with at that age. They may also encounter content such as pornography or sexting that cause them to feel guilt and shame, but remaining curious to engage even more. A significant number of children who are being cyberbullied or are exposed to inappropriate content online unfortunately turn to self-harm as a coping technique. At their age, we can not expect them to have all the emotional tools to help them open up a conversation about how they are feeling and reaching out to someone who can help them. Especially when they are feeling vulnerable and afraid. Sometimes self-harm could lead to suicidal ideation, which is the most scary thought for us, as their parents.  When our children are exposed to these situations, they need our help more than ever. They need advice from parents or caregivers to guide them on this journey. But for parents, not knowing when or how this happens means that we can’t protect their minds or their thoughts and unless they talk to us about it, we seldom have any way of knowing. Some parents keep a close eye on all the devices in the home, but with all our time constraints, it is so easy to miss something small that could lead to a bigger issue. Now, more than ever, we have to spend time building better and closer relationships with our children, to ensure they know that we are their safe space. We have to create a space to have conversations about the difficult topics like pornography, sexting, self-harm and bullying, to name a few. We also have to ensure that we have the information at hand to discuss actual difficult situations they encounter, rather than hypothetical scenarios. Where our guidance actively influences the content they search for, post and like on social media. Where we have the opportunity to guide them on who they accept as friends or which messages on chats they react to and more importantly, how they respond. If you are a parent who would really like to know what’s going on in your child’s online conversations, without invading their privacy, join FYI play it safe today. FYI play it safe will send you an alert when your child is exposed to potentially harmful situations.  Go to www.fyiplayitsafe.com and start your 7-day free trial. 

May 8, 2023

Introducing MAVALA’s new Bio-Color Nail Polishes and Multi-Moisturizing Snow Mask

MAVALA is proud to introduce you to two exciting new launches: MAVALA Bio-Colors + Silicium (R125.00 – Dis-Chem) New Bio-Colors are the natural nail colour solution you’ve been waiting for. With a more natural formula, these nail colours contain more raw materials of plant and mineral origin, without compromising on hold, shine and respect for nails. These new formulations contain sugar cane, rice, beetroot, wood pulp and corn, replacing the solvents and plasticizers usually derived from petrochemicals. The formulas contain at least 85% natural origin ingredients, and the colours are enriched with clay derivative and fortifying organic silicon, which improves the quality of the nails while protecting them. This new collection is available in 12 timeless shades, easily recognizable with the leaf illustration on the front of the label, and with its white cap. White symbolizes naturalness, while the gold of our traditional MINI’s refers more to the universe of makeup. The names of the 12 new colours highlight 12 legendary rivers from all over the world, in reference to water, the  source of life: 701 – Rio Grande – An aubergine shade, summer storm at the foot of the Arizona pines. 702 – Mississippi – A budding passion over the water. 703 – Nile – A blood red, at the heart of a captivating romantic plot. 704 – Rhône – A bold burgundy like the most powerful of French rivers. 705 – Volta – An optimistic solar energy. 706 – Thames – The charm of a picnic on the banks of a long calm river. 707 – Colorado – A dark red in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. 708 – Murray – A journey to the heart of lush flora and fauna. 709 – Amazonas – An expressive fuchsia, like the world jewel of nature. 710 – Mekong – A deep red, daydream embarked on the Mekong. 711 – Shannon – A radiant and majestic fuchsia. 712 – Indus – An adventurous dark purple. Plant-based ingredients in the new formulas include: Ethyl Acetate/Butyl Acetate Solvents of petrochemical origin have been replaced by bio-sourced solvents, meaning they originate from renewable farming resources (sugar cane, rice, beetroot). They are useful to give the desired fluidity to nail polish and act on the drying time, evaporating once the nail polish is applied to the nails. Nitrocellulose Essential resin for nail polishes, nitrocellulose is obtained from wood pulp. It forms a hard protective film when drying and increases the lasting power of nail polish. Nitrocellulose is mainly responsible for the permeability of MAVALA nail polishes to air and water vapour, thus allowing the nail to breathe. MAVALA has been using nitrocellulose in all its nail polishes since 1962. Triethyl Citrate This plasticizer brings texture, shine and flexibility to nail polish. Its origin is purely botanical: it is produced from corn and beetroot. The mineral-based ingredient in the new formula is: Stearalkonium bentonite This substance of mineral origin (crushed clay) guarantees a good spreading of nail polish and a nice homogeneity. All MAVALA Nail Colors are formulated without toluene, phthalates, formaldehyde (prohibited), camphor, xylene, acetone, heptane, rosin resin, ethyl tosylamide, triphenyl phosphate, tosylamide / formaldehyde resin, preservatives (parabens or others, as formulas are not subject to microbiological contamination). No ingredients of animal origin are used; they are therefore suitable for vegans. MAVALA Aqua Plus Multi-Moisturizing Snow Mask (R695.00 – Dis-Chem) The summit’s best-kept secret: This ultra-fresh moisturizing and soothing mask is formulated with 94% natural origin ingredients, including glucidic complex acting on the three key mechanisms of skin hydration: Reinforces the skin’s natural barrier function. Increases the skin’s water reserves. Maximizes the water circulation within the epidermis. This vegan formula contains Pure Alpine Water, Swiss Mallow Flower (rich in moisturizing and soothing qualities) and Gel-Trap Technology for an ultra-fresh effect. It is enriched with glycerine of vegetable origin for an instant moisture boost. Texture: gel-in-oil emulsion that frees its water micro droplets on the skin for unique freshness and sensoriality. Results: the skin is quenched, soft, supple and soothed. Apply: twice a week on clean face, eye contour and neck. Leave it on to act for ten minutes. Remove excess with cotton pad. MAVALA always strives to minimise their carbon footprint and to become more eco-responsible. As such, this tube is made from recycled plastic (36%), the box is printed on cardboard from sustainably managed forests (FSC) and it uses 38% less paper by not including a leaflet in the box.   About MAVALA Over the years, MAVALA has become synonymous with quality thanks to its specific and effective professional standard products. With categories including, nail, hand, feet, face and make-up, all created from rigorous research and manufactured in our Geneva factories to impeccable quality demands. We care about the planet. We source our ingredients and raw materials from the nearest suppliers in Switzerland to reduce our carbon footprint. Whenever possible, we package our products without a box to reduce waste and manufacture under cold conditions to reduce energy consumption. We also increasingly use ingredients that are readily biodegradable. In particular, we do not use plastic microbeads which contribute to ocean pollution. We are 100% cruelty-free, we do not test any of our ingredients or products on animals. In South Africa, MAVALA is available through approved and appointed stockists ranging from small independent salons, pharmacies and large retail stores and chains, such as Clicks, Dis-Chem and Woolworths. MAVALA is also sold at some independent outlets around the country.   Learn more at https://mavala.co.za/   Follow MAVALA on social media:   Facebook: Mavala South Africa Instagram: @mavalasa

May 5, 2023

Medela Nursing Wear: Comfortable and Convenient for Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural experience. It is a special time to feel close to your baby. Medela nursing bras are designed and tailored to your needs. These nursing bras don’t just look good, they fit perfectly to the body and provide gentle support. 3-In-1 Nursing and Pumping Bra (From R 1999.99) Pump and breastfeed in complete comfort with the Medela nursing and pumping bra. With a 3-in-1 versatile design, it’s lightweight, ultra-breathable, and features Adaptive Stretch™ for a perfect fit and ultimate comfort. This 1-step, hands-free pumping bra makes pumping easy.  Its convenient design fits most breast shields and in-bra breastpumps. This 3-In-1 nursing and pumping bra is perfect for all-day wear and designed for In-Bra Pumping, Electric Pumping, and Nursing with comfort and ease even while pumping.   Features:  Hands-Free Pumping:  Pair with a Medela Electric Breast Pump for a 1-Step hands-free pumping journey or use with an in-bra pump for a discreet, comfortable pumping experience. Full Drop-Down Cups: When nursing, enjoy maximum skin-to-skin contact to encourage bonding with your baby. Soft Touch Adaptive Stretch: Made with Adaptive Stretch material to grow with your changing body. Perfect For All-Day Comfort: With its strap-style top, the bra is designed for a snug and tight feel, providing medium to high support to comfortably carry out daily tasks. Compatibility: Medela 3-In-1 is designed to work with Medela Electric Breast Pumps, wearable pumps, in-bra, and other electric pump brands.   Hands-Free Pumping Bustier (From R 1299.99) The Medela Hands-free™ Pumping Bustier makes pumping easy and convenient. It has a strapless design with an easy-fit front zip and hook, so it is quick and easy to put on. Bottles can be slid in from the front in one easy step. With the Medela Hands-free Pumping Bustier, you can express breast milk with all Medela double electric breast pumps. Features: Hands-Free Pumping: Made for easy expression, Medela Pumping Bustier gives the freedom and flexibility to allow for a completely hands-free experience, leaving you free to simply relax or multitask comfortably. Adaptive Stretch: With a strapless tube top design, the Hands-Free Pumping Bustier is designed to have a snug and tight feel which will adapt to the unique body shape over time. Soft Touch Material: For comfort through the pumping journey while reducing breast compression allowing for maximum milk flow. Pump More Discreetly: Works perfectly with Medela breast shields and provides full nipple coverage, so you can.  Compatibility: Medela’s Hands-Free Pumping Bra is designed to work perfectly with Medela Electric Breast Pumps: Pump in Style with Maxflow, Swing Maxi, Freestyle Flex, Sonata, and Symphony.  But is also compatible with most other breast pumps on the market. Medela Family App The Medela Family app is your personal helper. With the app, you can easily track important stats for pregnancy, baby, and breastfeeding and it gives you tips and support to help you meet your goals. Features of the Medela Family App: Knowledge Centre – A library of expert-written educational articles to help you prepare and learn along your journey. Personal helper – Our smart assistant helps you troubleshoot technical problems and get answers to frequently asked questions. Easy to use – The Medela Family app was designed from scratch with high usability standards including a night mode for easier reading in dim lighting. Virtual milk storage – With this smart milk inventory system you will always know how much milk you have in your stash. Hands-free voice control – Use your voice to track a session! Especially handy when changing a dirty diaper. Baby tracking – The following sessions can be tracked for one or more babies: breastfeeding, pumping, sleep, bottle feeding, diaper changes, weight, and length. Pregnancy tracking – With Medela Family you can track the duration, frequency, and pain intensity of contractions. The Medela Family is available on the App Store, Google Play, and AppGallery. All Medela products are available from Dis-Chem, Baby City, and other major retailers.  Follow Medela on Instagram @Medela_sa and Facebook @MedelaSA.

May 5, 2023

How to get a salon quality mani and lashes from the comfort of your home

There is nothing like a fresh set of nails or lashes to make you look and feel fantastic, however, for many women a regular trip to the salon is no longer an option. It’s no secret that salon visits have become pricey, and with the general cost of living going up all the time, many of us have had to cut back on our beauty budgets. Then there’s also the factor of time – in between going to work, fetching the kids, running the household and maintaining a social life, it’s not always possible to fit in a trip to the salon. The solution? DIY manis and lashes at home. Quick, easy (we promise!) and affordable, DIY treatments are the way of the future. Now before you think, “I could never do as good a job myself,” you need to consider that the products available for home beauty have advanced astronomically. Long gone are the bulky false nails and messy glues our mothers had to contend with in the past. And lashes? Forget over-the-top spider leg lashes and difficult application – modern DIY lashes are easy to apply and look professional, provided you choose a good quality brand. KISS, a leader in nail care and lashes, has been empowering consumers with the freedom to “bring the salon home” and express their individual style and beauty, with high quality DIY products at affordable prices since 1989. These are the Kiss products you need to achieve your very best DIY mani and lashes at home. DIY nails KISS Bare But Better TruNude False Nails (from R179.95) The nude nail trend is here to stay! KISS and imPress Bare but Better TruNude false nail shades flatter a range of skin tones. These false nails look professionally done, but it takes only minutes to DIY. Glue-on nails are easy to apply and removal is hassle free. Safe on natural nails, Bare but Better stays perfect for up to 7 days. KISS imPRESS Color Press-On Manicure (from R145.95) Prefer a press-on to a glued-on nail? Kiss imPress Color Press-on Manicure gel nails are super-slim and super-comfortable. They look and feel like your own nails, and no glue is needed – simply press them onto your nails and go. Chip-proof, smudge-proof and no drying time! Each set includes 30 nails, prep pad, file and cuticle stick, and the range features a wide variety of colours and designs to suit every preference. DIY lashes KISS FALSCARA Starter Kit (R499.95) Possibly the easiest false lashes you’ll ever use! Can you mascara? Then you can totally FALSCARA. FALSCARA brings the glam prowess of a posh lash studio home, with a stunning array of subtle-to-glam WISPS that are placed on the underside of your natural lash line. By applying the WISPS to the underside of your lash line, your natural lashes are free to grow strong and healthy. It’s the beautiful lashes you were born with — but with weightless backup that’s basically incognito. Lash extensions minus the time, hassle and expense! Go subtle or super glam – WISPS are buildable and customizable. The starter kit includes: BOND & SEAL, WISPS, and APPLICATOR. KISS Magnetic Eyeliner Lash Starter Kit (R399.95) Kiss Magnetic Eyeliner Lash Starter Kit has everything you need to get started with false lashes. These magnetic lashes feature five magnets placed along the lash line, which ensures a secure hold once applied. Simply apply the eyeliner along your top lash line, wait a minute and then apply the lashes – the magnets will adhere to the liner and stay in place all day. The kit contains one pair of magnetic lashes and a 5g tube of magnetic brush on eyeliner. KISS Lash Couture Naked Drama False Lashes (R240.00) Love a pair of good old fashioned glue-on lashes? Then KISS Couture Naked Drama False Lashes are for you. These 3D mink effect lashes look luxurious but feel light and natural. Each design features elegantly tapered lashes with soft outer ends, while a Cushion Flexi Band hugs your lash line for a seamless contoured fit. Achieving salon-quality lashes and manis at home is not just doable, it’s far easier than you think thanks to the variety of KISS products on offer. KISS products are available from Clicks and Dis-Chem.

May 5, 2023

Preterm Labour

Although most moms pregnancies last 40 weeks (your baby will have spent 38 weeks in your uterus) sometimes birth can begin prematurely. If you go into labour anytime between week 20 and 37 is known as preterm labour. A baby delivered before this is known as miscarrige, and anytime after week 37 is considered normal. If you suspect you’re going into labour early it’s critical that you contact your doctor as quickly as possible so that they can assist you. Ideally your baby needs to stay in your uterus until full term, but even if your baby is premature (sometimes called a preemie) they can still go on to lead a healthy life. Here are the signs of preterm labour, how you can try prevent it and what to do if you think that your baby might be coming early. How to decrease your risk of preterm labour  There are some things that increase your risk of going into premature labour – however, that being said, just because your risk factors are low, you aren’t guaranteed not to go into preterm labour. Firstly, throughout your pregnancy staying healthy is critical. Smoking, drinking and recreational drug use are all activities that increase your risk of preterm labour (amongst other things). Good nutrition and prenatal care is a key aspect of a healthy pregnancy and baby. Other risk factors include, having more than one baby in your uterus, short intervals between pregnancies and having had another baby preterm. There are certain infections and chronic conditions that can also contribute to preterm labour. Preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, depression, chronic kidney or heart disease or infections can all lead to preterm labour and birth. Signs and symptoms that you may be experiencing preterm labour Controlling what you can, keeping a healthy pregnancy lifestyle and maintaining good prenatal care are not guarantees for your baby’s timely arrival. However, spotting preterm labour early means that you’ll be able to receive treatment as quickly as possible. Backache and pressure in your lower belly (almost as if your baby is pushing down) as well as bell cramps and contractions are all signs of premature labour. These contractions are different to Braxton Hicks contractions as they are regular. Other signs include a change in your vaginal discharge to watery or bloody, or even experiencing a gush of fluid from your vagina. What happens if I go into preterm labour? If you suspect preterm labour let your doctor know right away. Once you have alerted your doctor they’ll give you medication to stop the birth or slow down your labour. How close you are to your due date will impact on how they decide to treat you. You may be given medication to slow or stop your contractions, as well as medication that will help your babies lungs mature and grow, as if they are born preterm they may not work on their own. If your baby is born preterm it is likely they’ll need special care from the hospital as they are at higher risk of health complications. However, even if your baby is preemie they can still go on to live a healthy life.

May 2, 2023

Barbie® Introduces Its First Doll with Down Syndrome, Further Increasing Representation in the Toy Aisle

Mattel, Inc. today announced the addition of 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. 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. “Our goal is to enable all children to see themselves in Barbie, while also encouraging children to play with dolls who do not look like themselves. 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. “It was an honor working with Barbie on the Barbie doll with Down syndrome,” said Kandi Pickard, NDSS President and CEO. “This means so much for our community, who for the first time, can play with a Barbie doll that looks like them. This Barbie serves as a reminder that we should never underestimate the power of representation. It is a huge step forward for inclusion and a moment that we are celebrating.” To celebrate the launch of the doll and to advocate for inclusion, visibility and understanding of people with Down syndrome, European ambassadors have joined Barbie to celebrate this important moment for the community. These include; Ellie Goldstein, Model (UK)1, Éléonore Laloux, City Counsellor & Author (France)2 and Enya, Model & Influencer (Netherlands)3 who have been captured in celebratory images and video, as they see the doll that represents them for the first time. The trio shared what this means for them and children just like them across the world.  Enya, from Netherlands said “As a child Barbie was a huge part of mine and my sister’s childhood, so the fact that there is now a Barbie that looks like me and that I can identify with is indescribable. It is so important that children become more aware about diversity and inclusion from a young age, showing there is not one ideal image. That you, I, and everyone, can be included, we are all beautiful, and that Down syndrome is a part of us, society, and the world.” Ellie Goldstein, from the UK said “I am so happy that there is a Barbie with Down’s syndrome. Seeing the doll, I felt so overwhelmed – it meant a lot to me and I’m so honoured and proud that Barbie chose me to show the doll to the world. Diversity is important to me as people need to see more people like me out there in the world and not be hidden away.” Counseled by NDSS, Barbie was purposeful with every design choice for the doll, including:  Sculpt: This doll introduces a new face and body sculpt to be more illustrative of women with Down syndrome, including a shorter frame and a longer torso. The new face sculpt features a rounder shape, smaller ears, and a flat nasal bridge, while the eyes are slightly slanted in an almond shape. The doll’s palms even include a single line, a characteristic often associated with those with Down syndrome.4 Fashion & Accessories: The doll’s puff sleeved dress pattern features butterflies and yellow and blue colors, which are symbols and colors associated with Down syndrome awareness. The doll’s pink pendant necklace with three upward chevrons represents the three copies of the 21st chromosome, which is the genetic material that causes the characteristics associated with Down syndrome. The three chevrons, or arrows, are a symbol that unites the Down syndrome community and are meant to represent “the lucky few” who have someone with Down syndrome in their life. Orthotics: The Barbie Fashionista doll with Down syndrome also wears pink ankle foot orthotics (AFOs) to match her outfit and her sneakers tout a zipper detail. Some children with Down syndrome use orthotics to support their feet and ankles, and NDSS provided a box of orthotics to serve as real-life inspiration for the ones this Barbie Fashionista is wearing, matched to her outfit and the bright colors in her design. 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 – fueling social skills needed to excel as they imagine their futures with an equal playing field5. 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 colors, hair colors 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

May 2, 2023

How Probiotics Can Help Reduce Airway Swelling In Children With Allergic Asthma

Allergic asthma in children is a common condition, but don’t let it dampen your child’s spirits! With the right treatment and management plan that includes medications, lifestyle changes, and probiotics, your little one can continue to play, run, and enjoy life to the fullest. Probiotics, the “good” bacteria found in fermented foods and supplements, may help reduce the symptoms of allergic asthma in children. Studies suggest that probiotics can resolve inflammatory events, which may lead to a decrease in asthma symptoms and fewer asthma attacks,1 so your child can breathe easily and live life to the max! What is allergic asthma? Allergic asthma is a kind of asthma caused by allergens such as dust mites, mould, pet dander, and pollen.2a When a child who suffers from allergic asthma is exposed to an allergen, the airways in their body become irritated and restricted, making it harder for the child to breathe.2b This inflammation can also contribute to increased mucus production as well as swelling of the airways, both of which further exacerbate the symptoms.2c  What are probiotics? Probiotics are living bacteria that are identical to the helpful microbes found in the human gastrointestinal tract. When consumed in sufficient amounts, they can positively impact health.3 An ever-growing body of research suggests that probiotics may help in the microbiome alterations associated with asthma, thereby avoiding or lowering the severity of this respiratory ailment.4 How can probiotics help allergic asthma? Probiotics have been shown to rebalance immune response, repair dysbiosis, and mitigate airway inflammation, reducing airway inflammation and swelling in children with allergic asthma.5 Probiotics, such as Bifidobacterium infantis (a “friendly” strain of bacteria), may also improve the effectiveness of asthma medication and reduce the need to use rescue inhalers.6 Probiotics are considered generally safe for children, although it is essential to note that some children may be allergic to certain strains of probiotics.7 It is also important to note that probiotics are not a substitute for conventional asthma treatment and should be used in conjunction with regular asthma medication. If you are considering giving your child probiotics for their allergic asthma, it is crucial to speak with your paediatrician first. They can help you determine which probiotic strains are most likely to be beneficial for your child and advise you on the appropriate dosage. How Reuterina® junior and Reuterina® Vit D can help your child Reuterina® offers a wide range of products for people of all ages, including Reuterina® junior8 and Reuterina® Vit D9. Reuterina junior ® helps restore and maintain a healthy balance of intestinal flora in children, thereby improving the function thereof.10 Reuterina junior ® is an effective therapy to help decrease the incidence of airway infections in children and reduce the number of absent days from school.11 Reuterina® Vit D drops balance gut flora and build healthy immunity.12   L.reuteri Protectis® has immunomodulatory effects and prevents pathogens from multiplying in the gut. Combined with immune-strengthening Vitamin D, it can provide protection from infections and contribute to better overall well-being.13 The Reuterina® family of probiotics are available from selected Dis-Chem and Clicks stores and independent pharmacies nationwide. For more information, visit: https://reuterina.co.za/ and join the conversations on Instagram and Facebook.     References and product legals available on request. | 025 ZA Reut 022023

May 2, 2023

How to practice good oral hygiene with braces

Braces are the answer to a number of dental concerns: They are worn to straighten teeth for aesthetic reasons, to fix bite issues, to correct over-or under-bites, to help solve speech impediments and fix issues like overcrowded or spacing issues. Whether worn for cosmetic or structural issues, braces may take some getting used to and you will have to adapt your daily oral hygiene routine to ensure you keep them clean. Practicing good oral hygiene is essential at every stage of your life, not only to keep your teeth looking their best, but also to avoid the formation of plaque, cavities and gum disease. You should brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily and visit your dentist for a check-up every six months. When you have braces, you need to step up your regime and be even more diligent about your daily dental hygiene practices. It may take a little longer to brush and floss with braces, but the extra effort is well worth it – when your braces come off, you’ll have a beautiful, healthy smile. Your oral hygiene routine won’t change much when you get braces – you’ll still need to brush and floss, however, you’ll have to adapt your technique. Braces are a little more difficult to keep clean as there are plenty of little nooks and crannies for food to get stuck in. Brushing and flossing correctly will ensure all food and bacteria is removed. Be sure to do both thoroughly, even if it becomes a little time-consuming. Brushing It is inevitable that some food may get stuck in your braces when you eat. That is why it is important to increase the number of times you brush from twice per day, to after every meal. This will ensure that food particles are removed promptly, helping avoid the formation of plaque and bad breath. If you find yourself in a situation where brushing after a meal isn’t possible, rinse your mouth thoroughly with some water to remove food particles that may have collected in or on the braces. Whether you use an electric or manual toothbrush is entirely up to you. Start with your top teeth. Hold your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle against the top of your braces, and gently brush in small circular movements. Brush the inside of your top teeth and repeat the process on your bottom teeth. Flossing Flossing is the only way to clean between the teeth and along the gum line. An easy and effective way to remove plaque around dental braces and improve gum health is to use a Waterpik® Water Flosser. It is clinically proven more effective than dental floss for people with braces, plus it’s a lot easier to use too. Water flossing is fast and easy and leaves your mouth feeling great – cleaner teeth, healthier gums. Its patented pulsating action removes plaque and debris from hard-to-reach areas deep between teeth and below the gum line where traditional brushing and flossing can’t reach. This makes the Waterpik® water flosser ideal for implants and essential for braces for superior plaque removal. How does it work? For best results, use a Waterpik® Water Flosser with the Orthodontic Tip. The Waterpik® WP-450 Cordless Plus Water Flosser (R1399.00) is a compact and practical choice and can be used with Waterpik® Orthodontic Tips (R179.00), which are designed to remove hard-to-reach plaque around orthodontic brackets and wires. Fill the Water Flosser reservoir with lukewarm water and place it firmly on the base. Insert the flosser tip and click into the handle. Adjust the pressure control (start at low pressure), lean over the sink, and place tip in your mouth. Turn the unit on. Starting with the back teeth, aim the tip at the gum line. Pause and lightly brush the area between the teeth and all around the orthodontic bracket or appliance. Proceed to the next tooth until all teeth in the top and bottom rows have been cleaned. Quick, easy and effective, a Waterpik® Water Flosser is the only way to thoroughly floss when you have braces. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices will ensure your teeth are sparkling and healthy when your braces come off. Invest the time today, and enjoy beautiful teeth tomorrow. About Waterpik®  Brushing is not enough, use a water flosser supplied by WaterPik®. Clinical research has shown that the Waterpik® Water Flosser is a more effective way to floss. Water flossing is fast and easy and leaves your mouth feeling great – cleaner teeth, healthier gums. Best of all, it only takes a minute a day before brushing. The easy and more effective way to floss!™ Its patented pulsating action removes plaque and debris from hard-to-reach areas deep between teeth and below the gum line where traditional brushing and flossing can’t reach. This makes the Waterpik® water flosser ideal for implants and essential for braces for superior plaque removal.   Learn more at https://waterpikflosser.co.za/ Follow WaterPik® on social media: Instagram: @waterpiksouthafrica Facebook: Waterpik Southern Africa  

April 21, 2023

WHAT IS ALTERED MENTAL STATE?

According to Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, an altered mental state can be caused by various factors, including psychological and physiological conditions and substance use. “An altered mental state, also known as an altered state of consciousness, is a change in an individual’s cognitive or emotional functioning,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “It is important for individuals to be aware of the potential risks and dangers associated with altered mental states, as they can have serious consequences for both the individual and those around them.” Several types of altered mental states can be experienced. These include: Delirium: This is a severe disturbance in an individual’s mental abilities, often characterised by confusion, disorientation, and impaired consciousness. Various factors, including medications, infections, and underlying medical conditions1, can cause delirium. Dementia: This is a decline in an individual’s cognitive abilities, including memory, language, and problem-solving skills. Dementia is often associated with ageing but can also be caused by other factors such as head injury or chronic substance abuse. Psychosis: This is a mental health condition characterised by delusions, hallucinations, and other abnormal thought patterns. Psychosis can be caused by various factors, including mental illness, substance abuse, and certain medical conditions. Coma: This is a state of unconsciousness in which an individual is unresponsive to their surroundings and cannot be awakened. Coma can be caused by various factors, including head injury, stroke, and substance abuse. Trance: This is a state of altered consciousness in which an individual is highly focused and may experience altered perception or dissociation. Trance can be induced through various methods, including meditation, hypnosis, and certain substances. Substance use: Substance use is a common cause of altered mental states. Alcohol and drugs, including prescription and illicit substances, can have a range of effects on an individual’s cognitive functioning. These effects can vary depending on the substance, the individual’s tolerance, and the amount consumed. Individuals must be aware of the potential risks of substance use and altered mental states. Substance abuse can lead to various negative consequences, including addiction, physical and mental health problems, and impaired judgment and decision-making. Signs Of An Altered Mental State Individuals experiencing an altered mental state may exhibit a range of symptoms, including: Confusion and disorientation Delusions and hallucinations Changes in behaviour and mood Impaired judgment and decision-making Difficulty communicating Where And How To Get Help If you or someone you know is experiencing an altered mental state, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. This can help ensure that the individual receives the appropriate care and treatment to address the underlying cause of the altered mental state. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, resources are available to help. These include therapy, support groups, and rehabilitation programs. It is essential to seek help as soon as possible to address the issue and prevent further negative consequences. “An altered mental state is a change in an individual’s cognitive or emotional functioning that a variety of factors can cause. It is important for individuals to be aware of the potential risks and dangers associated with altered mental states and to seek help if they or someone they know is experiencing an altered mental state or struggling with substance abuse,” concludes Hewlett.

April 21, 2023

Investment basics for children

Talking about budgets is often the starting point in the financial education of kids. While budgeting can help you live within your means and stay solvent, only investing will help you become wealthy and financially independent one day. However, there is often a lot of jargon in the investment world, which is perhaps why we often don’t explain it to kids. Here are five investment basics for kids in plain language anyone can understand from the CEO of an investment company.  Saving is for the short term, investing is for the long run Setting money aside monthly for unexpected expenses is a good start. As the last few months have taught us, an emergency fund is essential. Because you might need this money at any time, you don’t want to invest it in anything where the value will fluctuate too much, or where you can’t access it at short notice. This money should be kept in an easily accessible form, like a savings account or a money market fund. However, if you want to save for bigger long-term goals you will need to give your investment enough time to grow and invest in something that offers a higher return on investment than cash or money markets. Time is the secret ingredient when it comes to growing wealth Very few people become wealthy overnight. Listening to the stories of great business people, it soon becomes clear that a lot of hard work preceded their ‘overnight success’. The same applies to money. Every year’s gains add to that of the years that came before, and these gains add up. The key is not to give up or touch this money too soon. If you planned to invest your money for a certain time, it is usually best to stick to your plan unless something material has changed. Invest in the right things for the right reason This is the part that seems to trip many people up. We often get asked “what is the best investment?” However, there is no such thing (with a few caveats I’ll get to last)! The right investment is one that will do what you need it to do. If you need an emergency fund, then the right investment is one you can access quickly and where what you get out is more or less what you put in. But if you are investing for retirement, then accessing it now is not important. You also don’t want to just get back what you put in, because in thirty years’ time that money won’t buy you very much because things get more expensive over time due to inflation. You want your money to grow faster than inflation, so you can buy the same things (and maybe even more) in 30 years’ time.  Asset class ABCs Asset classes are a way of sorting the things (instruments) we can invest in into groups by how they tend to behave. There are four basic types: cash, bonds, property, and equities. Less risky assets give you lower returns while more risky ones provide higher returns in the long run. Risk can sometimes mean losing money, but mostly it means an asset does not behave as expected.  The least risky assets are cash and money markets, but they typically offer the lowest returns over the long run. Bond investments pay an agreed interest rate over an agreed period, and this is typically a higher rate than you can get from cash investments. Property investments are more risky than cash and bonds, but tend to offer higher returns. In addition to residential property, you can invest in things like shopping centres or office complexes, where people pay rent. When it comes to building wealth in the long-term, however, shares – also known as equities – are the place to be. These are like owning a part of a company. However, share prices move up and down all the time, sometimes by up to 30%, like we have seen recently. Because of this, it is often better to hold a balanced or multi-asset portfolio. This just means you combine all the asset classes to get the best of all worlds – more return for less risk. Lastly, choose whom you trust with care While each type of investment has its place, not all investment services providers are a safe bet. Some may be outright dishonest, others may be incompetent. Be careful of anyone promising fantastic returns in a short space of time (as you’ve just learnt, making money takes time!). Always check that the person you entrust your money to can be trusted, and invest with a company you know, and that is covered by solid regulations. By Anet Ahern, CEO at PSG Asset Management

April 21, 2023

Why consistency and routine are important for toddlers

The toddler phase is so amazing as they develop into little humans with cute mannerisms and sayings. However, it is also the most difficult phase as they are also developing emotionally where strong wills and protesting happen in a rather violent way! We as parents have the responsibility to guide and teach these toddlers what is expected in life as they honestly don’t know what is best for themselves. For example, my toddler can distinguish between whether he wants to nap or not. His feelings toward the issue are not helpful because he does not YET have all the information to make an informative and emotionally intelligent choice about his life. The toddler does not take into account that he woke up very early, that he is over-tired and over-stimulated and that the sweets he ate earlier also add to a disruption in his sleep cycle. My toddler will obviously not think it is a good idea to sleep, but we as parents know that his little body can only go so far, before it needs to recharge and relax via a nap! So here are what the experts say about why routine and consistency is so important for our little ones: Young children do not yet fully understand the concept of time, so they do not order their lives by hours and minutes, but rather by the events that happen. When events happen in the same order every day, children have a better understanding of their world, and therefore feel more secure. A regular schedule gives children a way to order and organize their lives. When young children know what to expect, they become more confident in both themselves and the world around them. They know they will not be confronted with unfamiliar tasks for which they are unprepared (www.education.com/magazine). The Northwestern University Counselling Department has explained that parents should attempt to attain the “4 C’s of Parenting”. This includes Choices, Consequences, Consistency and Care. If you make the right choices, and explain and follow through with consequences consistently and with care, you will be helping yourself and your child flourish in a known environment, where the boundaries and expectations are clear. Moises Roman from UCLA Early Care & Education Department says the following about consistent care: Schedules and routines are important for children because they need to know what’s coming next. If the schedule is consistent, children learn the pattern. Once a pattern is set children can infer, for instance, that lunch comes after music time. This way, there aren’t too many unknowns. Schedules help build trust between childcare providers and children. Young children begin to understand that adults will take care of their needs on a regular basis. When children have too many unknowns, anxiety builds up and they start showing emotional reactions to the inconsistency. For instance, they may cry or become irritable and take it out on other people. If they don’t have regular routines it starts showing in different ways. Let’s say that a child is used to having lunch at 11:30 am every day. And for some reason, lunch is late and the child doesn’t get to eat until 1:00 pm. You may see the child crying and being irritable. You can try to talk to them, but they will no longer enjoy the things that they normally do. Breaking a schedule throws a child completely off.  Some flexibility is important though. For example, if your schedule says your music time goes for 30 minutes and you’re done in only 10 minutes because the children are telling you they are finished, then move on to the next activity on your schedule. Flexibility in that respect is fine. This applies to other things like play time, story time and quiet time. So if kids need more sleep during nap time, allow them to rest. Consistency and routine creates TRUST, SAFETY and EMOTIONAL STABILITY for your toddler! By Michelle Janse van Rensburg – Good Night Sleep Consultant

April 21, 2023

Child drownings are not seasonal and are almost always preventable

Child drownings happen year-round and PowerPlastics Pool Covers is on a drive to remind parents that these drownings are entirely preventable with multiple layers of safety applied to the pool. The PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover and adult supervision at all times should be included in these layers of safety at all times.  The PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover offers parental peace of mind as it completely seals off the entire pool. The PVC cover is drawn over strong aluminium batons that rest on the coping, and a tamperproof ratchet fastening system makes it impossible for a small child to access the water. Small drainage holes prevent rain or sprinkler water from collecting on the cover as just a few millimetres of water can be fatal to a curious child. The cover withstands up to 220kg and is easily deployed by two people, or it can be semi-automated for single person usage. The PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover is available in a range of colours, allowing it to blend into the outdoor area.  Importantly, the cover complies with the recommended guidelines (SANS 10134) for pool safety, set by the SABS who oversees pool safety compliance in SA.  Thermal pool covers or ‘bubble’ covers that lie directly on the water should never be considered as child safety pool covers as they do not bear weight.  Aside from covering the pool, every adult in the home needs to know what a drowning in progress actually looks like as TV has created many misconceptions around this. There is no noise or splashing nor calls for help. Drowning is quick and silent.  Even if one doesn’t have children, it is still necessary to consider safety for visitors. Families living in residential complexes with a communal pool should insist that their body corporate install a solid safety pool cover.  PowerPlastics Pool Covers has also created a Safety Monitor system. Based on the principle that adult supervision is key to avoiding drownings, it allows children to quickly identify the adult in charge should there be a safety issue among the children in the pool. When there’s a larger number of children in the pool, e.g at pool parties, it is advisable to have two or more supervisors each wearing a tag. A busy pool is high risk. You can download it here and print at home. Laminate it if possible (to prevent water damage) and then add a lanyard or tie it on a loop of string and wear around the neck. The bottom line is that children need to be supervised around pools, and as long as the pool is covered and other layers of safety are in place, the likelihood of a tragedy occurring in your pool is greatly reduced. Practical tips for pool safety Don’t let your pool’s water levels drop. Keeping the pool topped up allows for small arms to easily grab the edge if needed.  For every two children in the pool, have one adult supervising and use the Saefty Monitor tag system. The more children, the more supervisors needed. Be aware that children’s pool parties are high-risk events.  Turn off fountains and water features. Not only do they waste water and power, they can cause ripples and splashing, making it harder to see when a child has encountered difficulty in the pool or has sunk to the bottom.  Ensure that every adult in the home knows CPR, including domestic workers. Never hire a baby sitter or au pair who can’t swim. Don’t let anyone who has been drinking or on sedative medication supervise children in a pool.  Don’t leave toys in or near an open pool as children will be tempted to retrieve them. Teach your child to swim fully clothed and with shoes on. If your child develops a fear of water, don’t ignore this – a child who panics is at greater risk of drowning. Never allow swimming after dark. Discourage your dogs from swimming. Children and pets in a pool are not a good mix. Never leave the pool without securing it with your PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover. Never design / build a pool that cannot be secured for child safety.    The Vektor Rollup Station brings semi-automation to the PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover. Learn more.   

April 18, 2023

The Link Between Eczema and Gut Health – Three Tips To Help Soothe Your Child’s Skin

If your child struggles with eczema, you know too well the symptoms of itching, swelling, dryness, and discomfort that interfere with everything from missed school to anxiety and limited physical activity. What is eczema? Eczema is a common chronic inflammatory disorder of the skin that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin and affects up to 30% of children.1 Recent research has shown a link between eczema and gut health.2a  Here are three tips to soothe your child’s eczema-prone skin and improve their gut health: #1 Incorporate probiotics into your child’s diet:Studies have shown that probiotics can help improve the balance of bacteria in the gut, which can, in turn, reduce eczema symptoms. 2b Reuterina® drops3  is clinically validated in babies and children and shown to improve a variety of health conditions. #2 Avoid high-sugar foods:High-sugar foods can upset the balance of bacteria in the gut, exacerbating eczema symptoms.4 Instead, focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. #3 Keep your child’s skin hydrated:Dry skin can worsen eczema symptoms, so it’s essential to keep your child’s skin moisturised.5 The Reuterina® family of probiotics are available from selected Dis-Chem and Clicks stores and independent pharmacies nationwide. For more information, visit: https://reuterina.co.za/ and join the conversations on Instagram and Facebook. Ascendis Pharma (Pty) Ltd. Co Reg No. 2002/001567/07 | Customer Care: +27 11 036 9600 | 022 ZA Reut 022023

April 14, 2023

Bubblegummers are back! Strong, comfy, scented sneakers for building imagination without limits

Bata South Africa has brought back its top-selling, global children’s footwear range, Bubblegummers, promising to fuel the imagination of little ones once again with the coolest, comfiest shoes around. The new line of Bubblegummers high-tops and sneakers is out now in selected Edgars stores nationwide and online.  A firm favourite for kids the world over, Bubblegummers have delivered lasting memories of fun and adventure for generations of children. They’re crafted for function, durability and great support for growing feet, but designed with colour and fun in mind. With elasticated laces and light-up soles – infused with a signature bubblegum scent – the new line includes a variety of styles, designs, colours and sizes, packaged in a super sturdy and lightweight fit that’s perfect for active and playful kids. Bata Country Manager, Michael Wyatt, says: “Every pair of Bubblegummers is designed with the most advanced technology to ensure that kids can play and explore in comfort and safety in their early years. Bubblegummers is all about combining fun, form and function, and we’re confident that kids and parents alike will love the innovation and aesthetic appeal that have been incorporated into the design of this new line.” Bubblegummers footwear innovation The new Bubblegummers range of sneakers is antibacterial and breathable thanks to special Bubble Breathe technology. Bubble flex helps the shoes adapt comfortably to the energetic movements of childhood. Bubble absorption in the sole of the shoe keeps busy little feet protected, while a non-slip bubble grip supports the child’s stability as they explore the world. Bubble health keeps feet fresh and free from odour-causing bacteria, thanks to sanitised insoles. And to top it off, there’s bubble smell, with a signature Tutti Frutti bubblegum fragrance infused into every pair of Bubblegummers. The Bubblegummers range caters for girls and boys, and all shoes are designed with a child’s general developmental goals and ages in mind.  Bubblegummers for infants are soft, yet offer protection from unexpected bumps, while shoes for pre-school children have an easy fit and are flexible for energetic toddlers who want to play.   “Children take up to 16 000 steps every day as they play and keep active. As parents it’s our responsibility to encourage play and physical activity, which are necessary for growth. This is why the Bubblegummers range is designed to allow for flexibility and protection, with the colours and technologies that your children need to grow up healthy and happy, as they build their imagination without limits,” says Wyatt. Shop Bubblegummers at selected Edgars outlets nationwide, and Edgars online. Sizes range from toddler size 6 to 10 and kids’ size 11 to 3, for boys and girls. Follow Bubblegummers on social media:  Instagram: @bubblegummers_za Facebook: Bubblegummers_ZA

April 14, 2023

Language development – take note of the role of music!

We’re SUPER excited about MUSIC as a catalyst for learning. Our excitement comes from years of experience as we’ve watched the effect that music-based activities have on children. What’s really exciting, is that our experience is continually backed up by research coming from prominent NEUROSCIENTISTS across the world. The “we” I’m talking about is Wriggle and Rhyme, a proudly South African MUSIC PROGRAMME for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers from 6 months to 6 years old. Our mission is to introduce children to music-based activities in their early years, because: music is such a fun and highly effective medium for learning!  music brings people together! So, that’s exactly what our programme aims to do! What does the research say? As the years have passed, more and more research is being done on the effects of music on growing brains.  This research validates our anecdotal experience from our classes. We witness the incredible effect that music has on the children participating in our musical adventures! It would make sense to assume that SINGING SONGS, in particular, has a helpful part to play in language development – in terms of repetition, vocabulary extension, auditory memory, rhythm and rhyme – all of which are the building blocks of speech.  We see this constantly in our RHYMERS classes (for children from 18 month – 3 years old) and PRE-SCHOOL classes (up to Grade R)However, research indicates that MUSIC ITSELF contributes to speech, even before the words begin to be understood. The building blocks of language “Infants listen first to sounds of language and only later to its meaning,” says Anthony Brandt.  Differentiating different sounds is one of the key components to language development. Babies will start by gurgling and babbling to try and imitate their caregivers speech … these are the building blocks of language. When you think about the structure of a song – its different musical components, such as tempo, timbre, dynamics – one can see why music is so effective in forming the “scaffolding” on which speech is then built. The importance of singing One of the most obvious benefits of singing words, rather than only using instrumental music-based activities, is the opportunity to introduce and extend a child’s vocabulary.  Because of the way that music impacts our memories, words are more readily embedded when they’re sung, rather than just said. Rhythm and reading Nina Kraus and her  colleagues at the Auditory Neuroscience Laboratory of North-western University (Illinois, USA) have been researching the links between rhythm, speech recognition and reading. Over the course of their tests they found those who had more musical training not only kept better time, but had better neural responses to speech.  Conversely, children who were poor readers tended to have difficulty tapping a consistent beat. Time to pick up our drums and start to play in time to the music! There’s so much more that we could say and the research is persuasive and ongoing … but one thing is for sure – when it comes to LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT: Take note of the role of music! About the author: Kirsty Savides is the Founder and Programme Director of Wriggle and Rhyme, South Africa.  She is absolutely passionate about music education and aims to share this passion with parents and educators to promote music-based learning in early childhood. Wriggle and Rhyme classes run across Cape Town, with opportunities to grow further afield.  If you’d like to find out more about the Wriggle and Rhyme business opportunity, take a look at the OUR TEAM / JOIN THE TEAM tab on their website. Website – www.wriggleandrhyme.co.za Facebook and Instagram – #wrigglerhyme @wrigglerhyme YouTube – Wriggle & Rhyme SA

March 30, 2023

Introducing Re-Firm Elixir Cream

NEW Re-Firm Elixir Cream – a luxurious way to harness the power of stem cells  An innovation like no other, NEW Lamelle Re-Firm Elixir Cream is a cutting-edge anti-ageing solution using the technology of regenerative medicine. Rapid Rejuvenation  Lamelle Re-Firm Elixir Cream is a luxurious velvety-textured moisturiser delivering the purest stem cell conditioned media (SCCM) to rapidly rejuvenate aging skin. It’s other pioneering active ingredients include essential antioxidants, soothing panthenol and hydrating hyaluronic acid along with cell communicating growth factors and anti-ageing peptides. The result? A potent anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and pigment-inhibiting powerhouse! What is SCCM?   Medical science has recently unlocked the astounding regenerative potential of stem cells and Lamelle, having collaborated with biotechnology companies for decades, has been at the forefront of this exciting new technology. Stem cells are living cells, found in various tissues in the body, with a chameleon-like ability to transform into almost any other cell type. Naturally, this makes them essential for rejuvenation as they can morph into whatever tissue your body requires to heal. They also have the ability to communicate, producing “factors” that influence the behavior of surrounding cells. Our new superstar active ingredient, SCCM, is a stem cell’s “liquid essence” – the result of adipose-derived stem cells in a growth medium. As the stem cells proliferate in this medium they produce multiple active ingredients that infuse into the conditioning media. This medium – the SCCM is now a cocktail perfect for ageing and damaged skin cells to bounce back into action. This is delivered into the skin using a natural encapsulation technology to ensure maximal absorption and optimal results. Superior Stem Cells Stem cells are becoming a prolific active ingredient, but their usefulness depends on their origin. Most cosmetics that tout them are using plant-derived stem cells that don’t have the ability to differentiate into other human cell types, nor communicate with them. At best, they function like an antioxidant. This is why Lamelle’s technology makes use of stem cells derived from human fat cells. They’re proven to deliver the very best results with anti-inflammatory properties in comparison to other types of stem cells.  Still, it’s important to note that SCCM does NOT contain human stem cells as there is no need for this – all their rejuvenating benefits are transferred to the elixir.  Witness a Marvel! Along with SCCM, Re-Firm’s Elixir Cream also contains highly active growth factors, anti-inflammatory cytokines and peptides that encourage the protection and creation of collagen. Day by day, your skin’s cells will receive messages that instructs them to function optimally. Suddenly, mature skin begins to act younger – and the effect is nothing short of transformative.  Within just 28 days, expect to see a dramatic improvement in firmness; reduced wrinkling and a more evenly toned and radiant complexion. To enjoy the very best results, apply Re-Firm Elixir Cream twice daily, or our Re-Firm serum as a booster in concerned areas of ageing.  To learn more about Re-Firm Elixir Cream, visit www.lamelle.co.za

March 30, 2023

As Pure and Fragrant as the Earth meant it to Be: Respectfully Served by SOiL

Rooted in delivering wellness for mind and body, SOiL, the first organic aromatherapy production farm in South Africa since 2004 continues its sustainable approach to business supplying 100% pure organic aromatherapeutic essential oils and nature’s aroma essences with trade certification from Fair Trade, EcoCert, Animal Anti-Cruelty and South Africa’s Vegan Society to protect the ethics of this organic farming stakeholder.   In a world where trade is a driving force for positive and sustainable change benefiting people and their environment, SOiL’s Fair Trade standards protect workers’ rights, encourage safer working conditions and ensure fairer pay in agriculture, manufacturing and trade, implementing good economic, social and environmental practices and responsible supply chains that ensures the resilience of each link through partnerships, and fixed prices and volumes in sales and supplies.  Today, SOiL a family owned and proudly African company is part of the community of more than 700 certified companies and organisations in over 70 countries in certified products sales. With a close knit team, this vertically integrated labour-intensive company farms, processes, distributes and markets essential aromatherapy oils direct from the earth and into your hands from its fertile soils in KwaZulu-Natal.   “Everything we do, we do organically and with eco-ethical self-sustainability” says Founder Grant McMurray. “Our labour intensive, and certified organic agricultural process, where we grow, distil, package and market our oils meet international quality standards for export and each product is guided by integrity and complete traceability, which gives SOiL an educated voice within the aromatherapy and wellness industry.  “Since we first began the SOiL journey there has been huge demand from consumers that realise the difference in purity and quality especially when it comes to the health and beauty market,” he adds.  “The quality of essential oils is affected by many factors, including altitude, soil type and climate and we are fortunate that our pioneering approach to organic farming on our fertile soils and our moderate climate ensure that the oils we produce are of rock-solid quality which forms the foundation of our success. Unfortunately, a downside to using aromatherapy is that many of the oils on the market are not pure and this is why it is so important to be ethical.  “Sourcing our oils from the plants’ most ideal point of origin secures its quality aromatherapeutic function, while organic farming ensures oils that are free from petro-chemicals, parabens, synthetic fragrance and colourants. Every decision is made with a green conscious to minimise plastics and reduce our footprint. Simply put, we are earth friendly!”  FAIR TRADE  Fair for Life Certification ensures that human rights are safeguarded at any stage of production, workers enjoy good and fair working conditions and smallholder farmers receive a fair share. Fair trade improves the livelihood of thousands of smallholder farmers and workers by providing the means for social community projects and empowerment of people. It focuses on sustainability towards   local economic growth, employment creation and the utilisation of local, renewable resources.   “We grow and source locally first. Where plants thrive best in alternate locations, we call on our trusted certified organic and fair-trade network of producers throughout Africa and beyond to supply oil,” confirms Grant McMurray. “Our Fair for Life certification confirms our commitment to ensuring these communities benefit from the trade we do with them. It shows our commitment to  the ethical treatment of our suppliers by providing on-time payments at fair prices. Growers and harvesters are encouraged to form cooperative groups to share collective benefits and bargaining power while improving skills and capacity.”  ECOCERT ORGANIC CERTIFICATION  SOiL aromatherapy products are certified organic by ECOCERT and undergo rigorous annual audits by third party international organic certifiers.   “The beauty of our organic certification is the complete traceability to the source of our oils and the approval of all raw materials and packaging. All avenues of the business are scrutinised keeping our key values in place and our standards consistent. We believe our Ecocert certification, is your guarantee of a high quality, pure and therapeutically beneficial product.   “For a field to be certified organic, it must have been free from chemical fertilisers and poisons for at least three years. We are fortunate that our fields have been free from chemicals for more than a decade  Safe to Use Essential oils are the highly concentrated active ingredients of plants. They should always be diluted in a base before use and should not be taken internally without professional recommendation. One of the advantages of aromatherapy is that it has few side effects, however, one of the disadvantages is you can have an allergic reaction.   How can you verify if an essential oil is 100% pure? Read the label. The label should also specify that it is “100 percent pure essential oil” and list the net contents (including metric measurement). If it says “essence oil,” that’s not a pure essential oil but typically a premixed blend of essential oil(s) in a base of carrier oil.    One of the pros of aromatherapy is that it has few side effects. However, it is always sensible to err on the side of caution when delving into a new practise. Sense of smell is very subjective and can have completely different effects on consumers. Skins can also be sensitive. At the first sign of any reaction, it is advised to discontinue use.  SOiL’s 100% pure aromatherapeutic oils stand as a commitment to high quality and purity which resonates through SOiL’s standard of practise in providing aromatherapy as an appropriate way to improve mental and psychological health.   Visit the SOiL online SHOP providing aroma accessories, aroma sets, aroma wax melts, body oil blends, carrier oils, essential oils, remedy rollers, shea butter and latest range of Treemendus hair and beauty care.  Learn more about Aromatherapy, product benefits, and sales when you join the SOiL family and sign up to the SOiL monthly wellness newsletter.  For more healing formulas and essential oil haircare hints and tips, visit our online shop and discover the hundreds of healthy ways to boost your health, hair, mood and lifestyle with natural organic SOiL

March 28, 2023

CAN A SORE THROAT BE SOMETHING SERIOUS?

According to Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, most sore throats are harmless, but severe symptoms can make breathing difficult. Everyone gets sore throats; for the most part, they are just a nuisance that passes in a few days. However, sore throats can sometimes indicate a serious infection that necessitates antibiotic treatment. And now and then, they may have an extremely unlikely cause. “A viral infection is the most common cause of sore throat. It is frequently accompanied by typical cold symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and fatigue,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “However, while viral infections are often to blame, there are many other conditions that could be responsible for a sore throat, so I recommend seeing your doctor for a throat swab, especially if a high fever or pus accompanies a sore throat on the tonsils.” Affinity Health explores the main causes of a sore throat and when it’s time to see a doctor. Covid-19 It can be challenging to determine if a sore throat is a COVID symptom. Both the common cold and the virus that causes COVID-19 are types of viruses known as coronaviruses, and they can cause similar symptoms. A fever is one of the first signs of COVID. However, due to the spread of different strains of COVID, it is possible to have a COVID sore throat but no fever or other symptoms. However, if you have COVID, you are more likely to have other symptoms in addition to a sore throat. “Only 5-10% of COVID-19 patients will have a sore throat. They usually have a slight fever, loss of taste and smell, and difficulty breathing,” adds Hewlett. “With cold symptoms, we have to be vigilant. We used to dismiss cold symptoms as a society, but we can’t anymore. If you only have a sore throat and no other symptoms, COVID-19 is less likely to be the cause. However, if you have other symptoms, you may have COVID. I’d be concerned about COVID if I had a sore throat, cough, or fever.” How long does COVID cause sore throat? COVID symptoms typically last between five days and two weeks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, if it lasts longer than five days, it could be something else, and it is worth getting checked out by your provider. Tonsillitis Tonsillitis, or inflammation of the tonsils at the back of the throat, is also caused by a virus infection. The sore throat lasts two to three days before subsiding over the course of a week or so. It can, however, be caused by a bacterial infection (usually one called streptococcus). Strep throat is most common in children, teenagers, and young adults, but it can also affect older people. Specific key characteristics can help you determine whether you need to see a doctor about antibiotics. If you have at least three of the following symptoms, you should see your doctor or pharmacist:   No cough, but a sore throat A fever Tender, swollen glands in the front of your neck White pus on the back of your throat Difficulty breathing Difficulty swallowing Severe pain on one side of your throat Those who get strep throat several times a year may be candidates for tonsillectomy. According to the Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, if a person has strep throat seven times in one year, five times in two years, or three times in three years, they should consider having their tonsils removed. Glandular fever Glandular fever is also more common in teenagers and young adults. The condition is typically accompanied by swollen, tender glands, particularly in your neck, and can leave you feeling completely exhausted. If your doctor suspects glandular fever, they will order a blood test to confirm the diagnosis. Thrush The majority of us associate thrush with a vaginal fungal infection. However, thrush can develop in your mouth and throat. Oral thrush is relatively common in infants but far less common in adults. Thrush usually causes small white patches in the mouth that do not rub off easily with your finger, in addition to a sore mouth and throat. The lining of the mouth may also appear inflamed and redder than usual. The condition is likely if you use steroid inhalers or if your immune system is suppressed by conditions like cancer or medicines that work by dampening down your immune system. Acid reflux Acid reflux can cause heartburn; if the acid reaches the throat, it can also lead to throat discomfort. Common signs of acid reflux include: A burning sensation in your chest (heartburn), usually after eating, which might be worse at night or while lying down Backwash (regurgitation) of food or sour liquid Upper abdominal or chest pain Trouble swallowing (dysphagia) The sensation of a lump in your throat Treatment for a sore throat While a sore throat can be painful, the good news is that most sore throats go away on their own after about a week, depending on the cause. According to National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) s, 85% of sore throats will resolve within a week, and 40% within three days. If a bacterial infection causes a sore throat, antibiotics may be necessary, while sore throats caused by a viral infection usually do not require medical attention. Acetaminophen or mild pain relievers may help with pain and fever; paediatric versions of these medications are available. A pharmacist can advise you on which ones to use and the proper dosages. It is critical to always follow the directions on any medication and only take what is recommended.

March 24, 2023

Cramming versus scheduled studying: What’s happening in your brain?

Have you ever found yourself sitting in an exam or test, knowing how hard you studied the night before, with a question in front of you that you simply just can’t remember the answer to? This happens to everyone, and it has nothing to do with how hard you did or didn’t prepare. What it’s actually all about is how far along the process of encoding memory you had time for. This is why cramming the day before an exam or test can only get you so far. For true mastery that’s about more than passing on the day, you need to learn how to encode the information you’re learning into your long-term memory, and that’s going to take a bit more time. In this article, we’re going to discuss cramming versus long-term study, and what’s going on in your brain along the way. Step 1 – Sensory memory This is the very first stage when it comes to successfully encoding and storing information. When it comes to studying information, the two most common senses we usually use are vision and sound. We see the written or diagrammatic information, we hear it being explained to us, or both at the same time. Sensory memory is tricky because it is mostly there to use and lose information. Let’s think about a maths equation. You see the first line of the equation before you. Your sensory memory holds it in your mind only as long as it takes you to process it and move onto the next step of the equation. Then, it immediately deletes it from your brain. It is normal for sensory memories to last for split seconds before disappearing. Unless something special happens, that is. If you’re driving and see a stop sign, your sensory memory will hold the stop sign in your mind until you have stopped and then moved on. It will then delete that moment. But if you have a car accident at that stop sign, your sensory memory will pass it on to short-term memory, and your brain will hold onto the memory of that stop sign at that time for a longer period. The same goes for studying. Cramming is detrimental to sensory memory firstly because it’s tedious, boring and can be stressful. These are not the kinds of conditions your brain looks for when it wants to make something last. You need time and effort to truly move beyond this first step. Repetition and using multiple senses to learn the same information is your goal. And by repetition, we don’t mean sitting in one spot repeating a sentence over and over until you think you’ll be able to remember it through tomorrow and beyond. When we say repetition, we mean repeated learning of the same subject or topic using different stimuli. Yes, revise your notes from class, but also read blog posts, listen to podcasts, watch videos and (of course) practise past papers. This kind of revision is diverse and makes use of multiple senses, a winning formula for moving what you’re learning into the short-term memory! Step 2 – Short-term memory Short really does mean short here. On average, your short-term memory can only hold information for about 15 seconds. Your brain is always trying to optimise, and that means constantly discarding information it doesn’t think it needs. Short-term memory is often what is used when you are cramming for a test. If you’re trying to remember a list of facts, you’ll probably have found that when you repeat them to yourself later or tomorrow, you’re more likely to remember items from the beginning and end of your study session, but that your recall only gets worse and worse when it comes to what you studied in the middle. This is a sign that the information wasn’t encoded correctly during the short-term memory phase. Information will stay in your short-term memory as long as you’re consciously holding onto it. From there, it will either be moved to working or long-term memory, or deleted. At the beginning of your cramming session, you will be more alert and more energetic. This will better enable you to encode what you’re learning in a meaningful way with practice, using the senses and being able to connect what you’re learning with what’s already stored in your long-term memory. This information is often successfully stored in long-term memory. Towards the end, when you’re tired, you might just begin repeating the information over and over, keeping it in short-term and working memory until you’re done with it after your exam. And whatever was in the middle, well, that’s probably mostly gone by the time you sit down to write. In order to move on from short-term memory, you need to allow yourself the time for not only meaningful and sensory stimulation like in the previous step, but you also need the time to build meaningful connections with what’s already in your long-term memory. This involves starting with the basics, and only moving on once you have something solid in your long-term memory to build upon. Step 4 – Long-term memory EXPLICIT LONG-TERM MEMORY – SEMANTIC When you think of long-term memory, you probably think of all the things you can remember that have happened personally to you in your life. But that’s only one small part (albeit an important one). Semantic memory is a form of explicit long-term memory that is based around factual information. And it is explicit because you make the effort to learn it on purpose (unlike biographical memories). When you are studying, you are successful if what you are learning moves from short-term memory into explicit semantic long-term memory. There is a clue here. For a long time, neuroscientists have been trying to pin down exactly where in the brain semantic long-term memories are stored. And the answer seems to be all over. This has led scientists to believe that within our brains there is a semantic network. And they believe that this is

March 22, 2023

STDs THAT CONDOMS DON’T ALWAYS PREVENT

STDs are a serious public health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide. While condoms have long been considered a reliable method of preventing STDs, recent research has shown that they may not be as effective as previously thought, particularly when it comes to certain STDs. Human Papillomavirus One of the most well-known STDs that condoms may not prevent is human papillomavirus (HPV). According to the National Library of Medicine, HPV is one of the most common STIs. It is most usually transmitted during vaginal or anal intercourse, but can also spread through close skin-to-skin contact. A person infected with HPV can infect another person even if they show no signs or symptoms. Signs and symptoms of HPV include genital warts (that appear as flat lesions, small cauliflower-like bumps or tiny stemlike protrusions), common warts (that appear as rough, raised bumps and usually occur on the hands and fingers), plantar warts(hard, grainy growths that usually appear on the heels or balls of your feet), and flat warts (flat-topped, slightly raised lesions that can appear anywhere). While condoms can reduce the risk of HPV transmission, they may not provide complete protection, as the virus can be present on skin areas not covered by a condom. Herpes Simplex Virus Another STD that condoms may not protect against is herpes simplex virus (HSV). This virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, even when no symptoms are present. A study conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) found that herpes is one of the most common STDs worldwide, with an estimated 417 million people between the ages of 15 and 49 infected. Condoms can reduce the risk of HSV transmission, but they may not provide complete protection, as the virus can be present on skin areas not covered by a condom. Syphilis In addition, condoms may not protect against syphilis, which is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that in 2020, 133,945 cases of all stages of syphilis were reported, including 41,655 cases of primary and secondary (P&S) syphilis, the most infectious stages of the disease. Syphilis can be transmitted through direct contact with a syphilis sore, which can occur on or around the genitals, rectum, or mouth. Condoms can reduce the risk of syphilis transmission, but they may not provide complete protection, as syphilis sores can occur on skin areas not covered by a condom. Gonorrhea And Chlamydia Finally, condoms may not provide complete protection against gonorrhea and chlamydia, two common bacterial STDs. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 78 million people are infected with gonorrhea each year, while an estimated 131 million people are infected with chlamydia. Condoms can reduce the risk of gonorrhea and chlamydia transmission, but they may not provide complete protection, as these bacterial infections can be present in the throat, rectum, or eyes. How To Prevent the Spread of STDs So, what can individuals do to protect themselves and their partners from STDs? Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health, recommends a combination of methods, including consistent and correct use of condoms, regular testing for STDs, and vaccination against HPV and hepatitis B. It’s also important to maintain open and honest communication with sexual partners about testing and vaccination status, and to avoid risky behaviors such as unprotected sex or having multiple partners,” concludes Hewlett.

March 21, 2023

Boomerang Africa rebrands to Cartoonito Africa from 25 March

Watch the introduction to Cartoonito Africa here Boomerang Africa becomes Cartoonito Africa in English-speaking African countries on 25 March – with the best of Boomerang alongside exciting new shows filled with more laughs, more adventures and more friends. There’s still plenty of room for long-time Boomerang favourites like Zig & Sharko, Mr Bean, Masha and the Bear, Tom & Jerry, Scooby-Doo and Looney Tunes Cartoons to shine alongside newer friends such as Dino Ranch, Thomas and Friends: All Engines Go and Lucas the Spider. Cartoonito brings them together – while adding brand-new shows like Batwheels, Bugs Bunny Builders and Interstellar Ella – just for starters – offering a wider variety of programmes filled with new friends, trusted fun and extraordinary adventures for the whole family to enjoy. “The rebrand of Boomerang Africa into Cartoonito Africa enriches our channel universe, bringing together the crème de la crème of Boomerang with more adventures and more friends to be part of ONE big Cartoonito family!” says Ana Gonzalez, Editorial Lead: Southern Europe and Africa, Kids Brands, Warner Bros. Discovery. “We know kids and families love our shows, and we’re looking forward to adding even more amazing content that brings the whole family together.” Georginah Machiridza, MultiChoice Executive Head of General Entertainment Channels, adds, “We’ve had a long-standing partnership with Boomerang and Warner Bros. Discovery, and we’re excited to carry the rebranded channel for our audiences in Africa. We know that the new Cartoonito channel will bring our DStv customers even more value and more kids’ entertainment.” Leading the rebranded channel is an exciting special – Secret Origins of the Batwheels – which kicks off at 08:40 CAT on 25 March. Batwheels is an action-adventure show that combines two of kids’ favourite things – superheroes and vehicles! The show revolves around a fun, dynamic team of super-powered vehicles and the obstacles these characters encounter as they battle the bad guys. This heroic and fresh gateway to Gotham City teaches that teamwork is an integral part of play that will help save the day. A 32-minute special, Secret Origins of the Batwheels, sees the Batcomputer forced to bring the Bat-Vehicles to life when Batman, Robin and Batgirl are all captured. The newly-minted Batwheels must defend the Batcave and face off with the Legion of Zoom – all without Batman’s help! The Batwheels series will then run every weekend at 08:40 CAT. Bugs Bunny Builders follows Bugs and Lola as they manage a crew of builders at ACME Construction Company who really shouldn’t be anywhere near a construction site! However, by working together as a team, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, Tweety and others use their tools and wild vehicles to pull off some of the looniest construction jobs ever! Bugs Bunny Builders premieres on Monday, 10 April, at 16:45 CAT and will run Mondays to Fridays at the same time.   In Interstellar Ella, the year is 3021. The place is the Milky Way, where eight-year-old Ella gleefully heads out with her friends on exciting adventures of discovery. At only eight, she already knows quite a bit about space … but there is always more to explore! With her besties Slippy and Madhu, Ella navigates the challenges that come her way. Things may not always work out the way she plans, but Ella never lets that get in the way of interstellar fun. Interstellar Ella premieres in June 2023. Cartoonito Africa – home to your favourite characters filled with more laughs, more adventure and more friends – will be distributed in linear on all the same channels –  DStv (channel 302), GOtv (channel 68) (channel 155 in Ghana and channel 357 in Uganda), AzamTV (channel 227) and Canal+ Ethiopia (Channel 127).

March 21, 2023
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