“The “terrible two’s” phase and how to deal with the “tantrums” that come with it “

Every child has a unique personality, which will be visible as the child gets older. Their character will be moulded and formed as a combination of the people around them, genetics, and living atmosphere. However, your little one will tend to exhibit a common personality trait as they pass the age of two – temper tantrums or the “terrible twos” Firstly, the name “terrible twos” is a misnomer. It is characterised by resistant behaviour.  This includes: saying “no,” kicking, biting, ignoring instructions, and throwing themselves on the floor. However, this can start from as early as their first birthday and not manifest itself until your little one is three years old. There is a reason why the nickname has stuck: Usually, around the age of 2 is when your toddler hits key developmental milestones such as: Communicating in two or five-word sentences, walking, climbing and gaining a solid foundation of concepts like; “mine,” “no” “bad,” and “good” which they didn’t necessarily understand before.  The root of these milestones, called the classic “terrible twos phase”, is about asserting independence, testing boundaries, and learning how to communicate fundamental needs and wants, but this comes with learning how to recognise that these needs and wants will sometimes differ from those of the parents and child’s caregivers.  “Terrible Twos Symptoms”  The child might be very loving and clingy in one moment, and he might start yelling at you within a second.  Refusals are also common among the children – they might refuse to do things, including eating, changing clothes or diapers, and even refuse to be touched by the parents. To get your attention, they might resort to many actions and tactics. Including screaming at the top of their lungs while looking directly at you, throwing things, or repeatedly hitting their head against the wall or a floor. Terrible twos are characterised by antagonistic behaviour towards the parents and frequent mood changes. Tantrums accompany this. How to help your little one through their “temper tantrum.”  Give them a few minutes to cry or scream it out.  Once you see they have calmed down, hug them and wipe down their faces. Now that they are done crying/screaming and cleaned, ask them to tell you how they feel and try to help them navigate through it. Tell your little one that the next time they feel overwhelmed or need something to come to you and ask. This can be a very trying, testing and challenging time for the parents, caregivers and teachers. You can feel like you’re not a good parent and guilt trip yourself. Doing this may affect how you treat your child. Sometimes parents overcompensate or take their frustration out on their partner, helper, etc. It’s crucial in these moments not to be too hard on yourself; self-regulate, take a breather and remember to keep a little human alive is a big task. They are trying to understand what this life is about. You are doing a great job and remember this is only a phase!

November 7, 2022

Nutritious Natural Energy Food Drink Now Here in SA

ULTI-MALT, a new natural energy food drink was recently launched in South Africa just in time for the festive season – although it’s been around for many years and very popular in some parts of Africa & Europe. The wholesome non-alcoholic drink is a firm family favourite that delivers instant energy while providing the goodness of malt, as well as being packed with vitamin Bs. For optimum health benefits, no sugar or preservatives are added. ULTIMALT is brewed without any alcohol at all, making it a perfect choice for the whole family who enjoy its natural malty taste in comparison to most other energy drinks with artificial flavours, or other so called ‘non-alcoholic’ drinks that do contain trace amounts of alcohol. Malt: The beloved flavour of Africa While ULTIMALT is new to South Africa, using the finest barley malt for nourishment is an ancient African tradition that goes back decades. Malt’s natural health benefits have enjoyed increasing awareness in recent years and the benefits for a wide variety of people are clear. Malt is not only empty sugar but rather a functional ingredient that serves as a source of antioxidants, essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals, and is made with whole grains. As an added benefit, malt has a significantly lower glycaemic index than regular refined sugar, yet still delivers a delicious sweetness. It is also an excellent source of fibre, which helps improve digestion and enhance digestive health. Studies show malt extract facilitates the growth of probiotic cultures which can help prevent illness and promote essential nutrient absorption, enhancing overall health. The high fibre value of malt, along with the vitamins and minerals it boasts such as copper, iron, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B1, B2, B6 and B12, have been shown in studies to decrease heart disease and cholesterol and improve bone health. Family Friendly Malt is one of the most lactogenic foods, widely known to promote milk production in expectant and nursing mothers. Scientific studies show that malt beverages have a definite advantage in producing ample breast milk. Malt made from barley helps the secretion of the prolactin hormone, and prolactin hormone increases lactation. In addition, malt has a positive effect on the antioxidant capacity of breast milk thanks to the nutrients it contains. As ULTIMALT is 100% natural and does not contain any preservatives, it has no side effects on a baby or mother and is a nourishing and more beneficial choice than other sugary drinks, or alcoholic beverages for increasing milk production as a nursing mother.  Children love the malty taste of ULTIMALT and studies have shown that malt drinks can be consumed by young children with meals or as a snack. ULTIMALT is the perfect addition for lunchboxes and extramural activities, and can fuel children with the wholesome energy to play, learn and play sport. The whole family can share the joy of ULTIMALT. Energy and health  The rich source of B vitamins featured in malt are essential for converting carbohydrates, protein and fat contained in food, into energy. This makes ULTIMALT the perfect choice for an active life, for athletes who are training for or recovering from sports events, as well as for the everyday exercise session or gym workout.  ULTIMALT is brewed using an authentic African recipe, with the most advanced western brewing processes.  The result is the perfect combination of sweet satisfaction & rich creaminess with no after-taste. No artificial flavours or artificial preservatives are added which can  affect both the taste and the calibre of a drink. ULTIMALT is the perfect wholesome pick me up energy drink food to provide a delightful energy boost, yet with none of the detrimental ingredients traditionally found in energy drinks. ULTIMALT is now available at Spar/Tops and Makro stores nationwide, with fabulous promotional specials running in November and December to celebrate the launch in South Africa. The RSP is R24 per can of 330ml.

November 4, 2022

Introducing NEW Correctives AHA re-texture solution

Reveal instantly smoother, more radiant skin and target congested pores – for combination and oily skin types Regular exfoliation will always be one of the key pillars of healthy, youthful-looking skin. But, as it turns out, you can get too much of a good thing. Using a very abrasive, grainy scrub can aggravate existing acne; causing the type of inflammation that sees it thrive and can even create micro-tears in your skin. Fortunately, a chemical exfoliator containing a potent and proven alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) like glycolic acid can help you speed up your skin’s cellular turnover – and serve up other great benefits too! Gently does it  NEW Correctives AHA re-texture solution by Lamelle Research Laboratories, available in a concentration of 5% AHA as well as 8% AHA, is an extremely effective yet very gentle way to shift dead, dry, superficial skin cells. Formulated for those with combination or oily skin, it reveals instantly smoother, brighter-looking, more evenly toned complexion. It also helps keep pores free of debris and excess oil – a plus for those struggling with congested skin. Still, the benefits don’t stop there. Many acids can help renew your skin’s surface but extensive research reveals that multi-tasking glycolic acid always goes the extra mile, stimulating your skin to produce more of its own collagen while increasing hydration. AHA aside, our brilliant new solution also contains Purslane extract, a super soothing succulent-derived botanical extract prized for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and hydrating benefits.  Take your pick  Both of our Correctives AHA re-texture solutions can be used daily or intermittently. The 5% AHA formula is a good choice for anyone who’s just stepping their toes into the AHA product arena. It can be used every second or third night before switching to every night once you know your skin can tolerate it. The 8% AHA formulation is a top pick for those accustomed to using AHAs. To include either solution in your skincare routine, simply massage it to clean dry skin and, once it’s absorbed you can continue to apply your moisturiser. (Another great thing about AHA products is that they can help enhance the absorption of all your other active ingredients.) Just a word of caution, especially for those new to using AHAs – glycolic acid can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun – and not just on the day’s your wear it, but for up to a week after discontinuing use. In short, don’t ever skip out on applying sunscreen. Ready to glow  If you’ve got a combination or oily skin type and would like to enjoy a smoother, more youthful-looking and radiant complexion, including Lamelle Correctives AHA re-texture solution in your skincare routine is a brilliant way to get glowing. To learn more about Lamelle Correctives AHA re-texture solution, visit  www.lamelle.co.za Tel: 011 465 2264

November 4, 2022

WHAT TO WATCH ON Cartoon Network THIS NOVEMBER

MONKIE KID MK Hunts His Magic Monkie Kid is a fun, fast-paced, brand-new show inspired by Chinese mythology and the famed novel Journey to the West and its hero, Monkey King. The tale begins when an ordinary boy, Monkie Kid – known as ‘MK’ – discovers Monkey King’s magical staff, which was left on top of a hill to imprison the evil Demon Bull King. After the Demon Bull King is released, MK must go on a journey of self-discovery in order to become the hero this generation needs and stop the Demon Bull King and his army of Bull Clones from taking over the city! PREMIERE: Saturday, 5 November (Monkie Kid: A Hero is Born – Special Episode) TUNE IN: Saturdays & Sundays @ 09:15 CAT Also available on DStv Catch Up TEEN TITANS GO! Be Kind, Rewind When they’re not fighting crime, there’s only one thing to do – get up to mischief! This month, Sticky Joe’s search for a can opener leads to a series of madcap adventures. The Titans decide to make their own TV show, and Robin needs to find a new way to lead the Titans once he finds out his catchphrase – ‘GO!’ – has been trademarked and stolen by another team. Amazed by old-school technology, the Titans also decide to travel back to the 1990s to visit a video store and, for their 365th episode, they head to the Warner Bros. Studio to find a director to make them look good. Will the new director be a good fit for our superhero team? Find out on Cartoon Network. PREMIERE:Monday, 14 November TUNE IN: Mondays to Fridays @ 16:20 CAT Also available on DStv Catch Up FOOTBALL FEAST!   Soccer Stunt With the Soccer World Cup fast approaching, your favourite Cartoon Network characters will be battling it out on the soccer pitch this November with brand-new episodes of Coach Me If You Can and some fan-favourite episodes of Supa Strikas! In Coach Me If You Can, Erico Platana must deflate his ego to lift a spell that turns him into a soccer ball and help a young future champion achieve his potential. He teaches Daniel some lessons – even if he doesn’t mean to – about succeeding in life and negotiating his way out of sticky situations. In Supa Strikas, Coach is man-down with ‘Coach-Flu’, so Prof hatches a plan to keep him in the game. El Matador is sent off to a secret facility to help take his ego down a peg or two. So, join us for these fast-paced specials to see who takes the cup! Coach Me If You Can PREMIERE: Monday, 21 November @ 15:40 CAT TUNE IN: Mondays to Fridays @ 15:40 CAT  Football stunt  LAUNCH:  Saturday, 26 November @ 10:10 CAT TUNE IN: Weekends @ 10:10 CAT

November 4, 2022

WHAT TO WATCH ON BOOMERANG Network THIS NOVEMBER

LOONEY TUNES Classic Cartoon Craziness Everyone’s favourite Looney Tunes characters are back with more mayhem than ever before. Everyone is here, Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Tweety Bird, Porky Pig, Elmer Fudd and many more! Yosemite Sam amazes everyone by taming a lion – can he do the same to Bugs? Sylvester is put outside at night after he makes a nuisance of himself but struggles to stay there. Then Foghorn Leghorn won’t let sleeping dogs lie, and Porky somehow finds himself signed up to participate in a boxing match. Join us for some wacky cartoon adventures where ANYTHING can happen! PREMIERE: Saturday, 12 November 2022 TUNE IN: Weekends @ 16:15 CAT Also available on DStv Catch Up TWEETY’S 80TH BIRTHDAY I Tawt I Taw a Birthday Party! Celebrate everyone’s favourite canary’s 80th Birthday with a special film and a classic Looney Tunes episode. In Tweety’s High-Flying Adventure, Tweety Bird sets out on a journey to collect paw prints from cats around the world – but can only succeed if he makes it back in 80 days. But, as Tweety begins his journey, Sylvester vows to follow him all the way!! In Happy Birdy To You, Sylvester is up to his usual scheme and tries to capture Tweety during his birthday party. Be sure to get in on all the birthday fun by watching Looney Tunes Cartoons on Boomerang. TUNE IN: Monday, 21 November @ 18:25 CAT SCOOBY DOO! RETURN TO ZOMBIE ISLAND Spooky Doo! Are you ready for another unusual, fun and spooky adventure? Join Scooby-Doo, Shaggy and the Mystery Inc. gang as they win a tropical island holiday and attempt to put their mystery-solving days behind them. When they eventually arrive at their hotel, the staff look eerily familiar. The gang is soon pulled out of retirement to investigate a mystery involving zombies, kittens, were-cats and a treasure chest full of gold. So, join Boomerang, Scooby-Doo, and the gang, as they unearth the mystery of Zombie Island in an original movie adventure! TUNE IN: Saturday, 5 November @ 09:40 CAT

November 4, 2022

MATRIC PARENTS: HOW TO SUPPORT YOUR CHILD THROUGHOUT THE EXAMS AND BEYOND

The Matric final exams represent the ultimate test at the end of one’s school career, and while it is an exciting milestone, almost all students find this period a test of their strength, endurance, focus, mental and physical fortitude and resilience. And while it’s a tough time for the Grade 12s, it is also hard for their parents, who know that there is only so much they can do to support their almost adult child, but who still want to do whatever they can to assist and smooth the road wherever possible. “Our thoughts are always with the Matriculants facing one of the toughest assessment periods they have so far faced, but we should also spare a thought for parents of Matrics, who are faced with the anxiety of their children, while also hoping that they perform well enough to set them up to pursue their goals and dreams after school,” says Peter Kriel, General Manager at The Independent Institute of Education, SA’s leading private higher education provider. Kriel says while parents often don’t know how they can support their children during this time, there are a few things they can do – and also a few things they should NOT do – to make things easier. KEEP A CLOSE EYE One of the most important ways a parent can support a child without being overbearing and too much in their space is to keep a close eye on the student. Leave them to get on with their studies, but look out for behaviours that could be cause for concern. For instance, get insight into their study schedule and, if procrastination is getting out of hand and can’t be reconciled with what the parent knows the student had planned for revision, gently suggest that you look at the schedule again together to see how the student can get back on track before falling too far behind. Empowerment trumps chastisement in these circumstances. Keeping ahead of the game is key, as it is almost always possible to get back on track if things are not left too late. On the physical wellness side, parents can help remind their child to get some sleep if they have been hitting the books for too long, too late at night. They can also ensure that students eat as healthy as possible while drinking plenty of water and getting exercise so that fatigue doesn’t impact their ability to study. GET HELP TIMEOUSLY IF WARNING SIGNS ARISE Unfortunately, some Matrics – even top performers – struggle during this time to such a degree that they may need additional or even professional support. If parents suspect that their child is struggling emotionally to deal with the increased pressure and stress, seek guidance from a mental health professional or a counsellor at school. While Matric exam results are undoubtedly very important, it is just as important to keep a sense of perspective, which sometimes becomes hard to do for students in the thick of it, who could potentially start catastrophising about results and their future. Matric exams are only one part of one’s life – which will soon pass – and there will always be options available, even if those options follow a different path from the initial vision. STAY CALM AND KEEP PERSPECTIVE Just as it is important for students to try their best while keeping a sense of perspective, parents can do their part by keeping calm as well. Be a pillar of support when needed, but don’t pass your own anxiety on to your child. Fear about the future and concerns about how well prepared a child is are all factors that impact on the emotional state of parents, so they should therefore also take good care of themselves during this time so that they can regulate their own emotions and not contribute to heightened tensions and anxiety in the house. Anxiety around final exams arises as a result of the belief that it is the final watershed assessment opportunity for young people. This fallacy arises because too many parents don’t understand the options available to learners should things not go as well as expected, and many don’t even know that there are options at all. Speaking to education professionals either at school or at a good institution of higher education about the myriad of options out there will provide a sense of perspective in terms of outcomes, and will allow parents to calibrate their own emotions. HAVE A PLAN (AND A PLAN B) FOR NEXT YEAR Once exams are over, allow students to take some time off to just enjoy themselves and blow off steam. However, don’t wait for Matric results before deciding about further study – by then it will likely be too late to gain entry into one’s choice of institution and qualification. Sit down and have a brainstorm reflecting on the student’s expectations about how they performed during their final exams. If there is a possibility that they performed better than they initially thought they would, and that they may possibly qualify for further study or even a more specialised degree, start investigating options as soon as possible. Here it is particularly helpful to approach reputable higher education institutions, private or public, directly to speak to a student advisor about the student’s options. Equally, if there is a possibility that a student may not have performed well enough to gain access to the institution or qualification of choice, student advisors will be able to assist with information about alternative routes to success. Having a Plan A as well as a Plan B in place even before results day means that regardless of what happens, students and parents will know that they have a clear path ahead – irrespective of their performance or in the case of them performing better than expected – and that they won’t suddenly be confronted with a wasted year ahead.

November 4, 2022

Flaunt Healthy Radiant Hair with tips from SOiL Aromatherapy: Essential Oil Hair Care from the Comfort of your own Home

Lustrous locks are healthy radiant hair that shines and bounces with you throughout the long day. Prevent bad hair days and avoid expensive salon treatments by ensuring the overall wellness of your hair and scalp using your own affordable apothecary of natural, organic essential oils to promote hair growth and nurse damaged strands back to healthy all-day lustre and glow. Essential oils fortify hair tissues, increase blood circulation and stimulate hair follicles so you can have soft, flowing mermaid hair throughout every season. Let’s look at some of the best essential oils for you to include in your personal daily haircare routine from the comfort of your own home. HAIR GROWTH Scientific studies show essential oils have properties that generate growth of hair and scalp cells. Choose your preferred essential oil below or combine them into a personal recipe for healthy hair regeneration and growth. Lavender essential oil contains antimicrobial and antibacterial properties to improve scalp health, generate cell growth and reduce stress. Mix 15-20 drops of lavender oil into 2-3 tablespoons of jojoba, hemp seed or apricot kernel carrier oil, and apply directly to your scalp. Leave it in for at least 10 minutes before washing it out and shampooing normally.  Repeat several times a week and give your head the boost it needs. Peppermint essential oil produces a tingling feeling as circulation is increased, boosting your hair during the growth phase. Thyme essential oil, one of the stronger essential oils in the family, promotes hair growth while actively preventing hair loss. Rosemary essential oil stimulates the roots and scalp and improves hair growth naturally. STRENGTH & THICKNESS Conditioning the shafts of your hair helps to reduce friction and results in less breakages. If you have long hair, wrap your hair up in a silk scarf before going to sleep at night to prevent further chafing and damage. Clary sage essential oil contains the same linalyl acetate that makes lavender oil so effective in increasing hair growth, improving hair strength and making it more difficult to break. Mix 9 drops of clary sage oil with your conditioner, or with 1 tablespoon of carrier oil. Leave on for 10 minutes before rinsing. Cedarwood essential oil balances the oil-producing glands in the scalp and boosts your hair to become your best-looking feature. Mix a few drops together with your favourite carrier oil, rub between your palms and gently massage it into your scalp for a glossy, aromatic start to your day. Rose Geranium essential oil repairs and nourishes your hair from the inside out using antioxidants to fight free radicals that can accumulate in the hair cells from exposure to pollution, harsh sun and hair treatment chemicals. REPAIR AND NOURISH Modern day stresses and environmental conditions can lead to itchy scalps and embarrassing dandruff build up, and a combination of dry hair and greasy scalp. Here’s the 101 in hair care with SOiL’s essential hair care range. Lemongrass essential oil promotes healthy scalp care, helping to ward off dandruff and can be used daily. Tea tree essential oil is a powerful antibacterial and antimicrobial oil which you can massage directly onto your scalp to unplug hair follicles and boost hair growth. It is also effective against head lice for school-going children. Mix a few drops of essential oil with a natural carrier oil from SOiL or add a few drops to your shampoo or conditioner for the best hair health for your scalp needs. Ylang Ylang essential oil is ideal for dry scalps, helping to stimulate sebum production which improves the texture of your hair. Mix 5 drops of essential ylang-ylang oilwith 2 tablespoons of warm oil. Massage it into your scalp and wrap your head with a warm towel, leaving it for 30 minutes before rinsing out. Never add pure essential oils directly to your scalp, first blend it with a carrier oil or add a touch of luxury to your everyday shampoo. Rose Geranium essential oil is high in antioxidants to nourish hair and act as a barrier to free radicals, so your hair looks radiant and luxurious. Apply it to your head to nourish, tone and feed hair follicles. Simply add a few drops to your current shampoo and conditioner to leave your hair beautifully shiny and healthy each day. SHINE & SOFTNESS Take time to show your crowning head of hair some tender loving care and get the results you need to shine. Our favourite essential carrier oils to use with your SOiL essential oil remedies include Apricot kernel for added moisture, Jojoba oil for added nutrients, Argan oil to nourish and add antioxidants, Hemp Seed oil to strengthen hair and stimulate hair growth and Shea Butter to nourish and condition. Incorporate the following essential oils into your daily hair care routine or set aside a beauty day of the week to apply a treatment for your best hair yet! Chamomile essential oil adds shine and softness to your hair, soothing your scalp and your mood. Ylang Ylang essential oil hydrates and treats dry brittle hair, helping to boost the texture. Sandalwood oil nourishes those long dry ends at the end of your hair shaft while delivering a beautiful fragrance. A Word of Warning The biggest risk of essential oils is skin irritation or allergic reactions. Always use a carrier oil to dilute essential oils. Test a small amount on your skin before applying and be aware of skin irritation, burning and redness. Allergic reactions to essential oils include blistering rashes, difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue and narrowing of the throat. Use a lower concentration when applying essential oils to children’s hair. 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 essential oils. Website: www.soil.co.za Facebook: @SOiLAromatherapy Instagram: @soilorganic  

November 4, 2022

Prematurity and breastmilk

Pregnancy and planning come hand in hand. We plan what will eat during our pregnancy, how we want to give birth, the baby’s room, baby’s name and seldom is it considered that baby can come early. We all want health, full term babies, so prematurity is often not even considered but unfortunately about 1 in 7 pregnancies in South Africa are born prematurely. This is about 84 000 babies born per year too early. As a mother of two children that were born to early, I have lived through the uncertainties, stresses and also the wins that happen when you find yourself in this situation. As a result, My Breastpump focuses on helping families with support and products that will help them during this time.  When you find yourself in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), it becomes your world. All you focus is on your babies and how they are doing. Mom and Dad may go home but their heart is left at the hospital. It can be a helpless feeling not being able to hold and cuddle your baby, but a Mom can help her little one grow and get stronger by supplying her baby with breast milk. Breast milk is the recommend milk for all premature babes as it has among other benefits: growth hormones, specialized nutrients (mothers’ premature milk is different to that of a mother from a full-term baby), easier absorption of milk and immune factors. If a mother needs assistance with breast milk she can ask for donated breast milk. The Mom can ask for information for the nearest milk bank and find out what the hospital polices are. There are several breast milk banks in South Africa: The South African Breast Milk Reserve, Milk Matters and the Net Care hospital group. If you have an over supply of expressed breast milk you can donate it to any of the milk banks. They will do all the paperwork and testing for you, they even come to your home. They make it as easy as possible for donating mothers.  How do mothers build up their milk supply when their baby is in NICU?  Here are our tips: Start expressing as soon as possible after birth. The ideal time is within 1 hour but if the mother has had extra surgery or complications, she can try to start expressing within 6 hours. Hand expression can be used in the beginning and then it is recommended that the mother used a double hospital grade breast pump.  Get a hospital grade double pump like the Ameda Mya Joy. The reason for this is that a hospital grade pump can drain and empty your breast effectively which increases your milk supply. It also has a reliable and powerful motor that can be used more than 8 times a day 24/7. The double pumps save the mom a lot of time, as you only pump for 20 minutes per session. This may sound insignificant, but it can reduce her expression time by half or more. This will make expression more possible and not as strenuous on the mother. Double pumping also will help her to increase her milk supply sooner.  Aim for about 1000ml of expressed breast milk in 2 weeks. This will allow the mom to keep up with her infants needs and set her up for a better breast-feeding experience later.  Make sure that the pump fits correctly. Did you know that breast pumps have different sized flanges? This is because women have different sized nipples. When pumping you want your nipple to fit inside the flange with out rubbing (flange is too small) or being pulled into the funnel much (flange is too large). If the flange is the correct fit, then you will be able to express more comfortably and get more milk.  Use a Breast massager that has vibration and heat to help you with your let down and milk flow. The My Breast Lactation Massager helps you to have a faster let down by heating the breast and also vibrates with 10 different settings to get your milk flowing and unblock milk ducts. You can find out more about out My Breast Lactation Massager on our website  Another thing that parents may be concerned about is that it is very difficult to get the correct sizing nappies, especially for babies born before 29 weeks. My Breastpump has launched our first premature nappy which is the My Little Prem <1.1kg, these nappies are designed to help the baby be more comfortable. This aids in better sleep and decrease in pain. Both are very important for improved growth and development. The My Little Prem Nappies are soft, light, small and have a leg cut out. The Leg Cut out is designed so that the baby can be placed in different positions and allow for correct placement of their hips. This allows for correct growth and improvement in the baby’s muscle tone. These nappies can be bought on Takealot and on our website  Some information about the Ameda Mya Joy Hospital grade breast pump: Ameda Mya Joy is a hospital grade double electric breast pump that is ideal for exclusive pumpers like mothers who have premature babies. The Mya Joy is small, but the motor is very strong and able to empty a mother’s breast well. It is this emptying that assists the mother to increase her milk supply. The Mya Joy has 7 different flange sizes that can be used and help for comfort and better breast emptying. The Mya Joy also has a NAPPI code which can be used with some medical aids to claim back from their medical saving. Please note that this is dependent on the medical aid plan and savings. The Mya Joy Hospital Grade double electric Breastpump can be bought on Takealot and on our website  My Breastpump also has one on one sessions that a mom can book with our lactation consultant to help her with her expressing journey,

November 4, 2022

Top Toys and Trends for 2022 Festive Season Revealed

The list features 22 of the season’s top trending toys for kids across all ages Toys R Us today revealed this year’s top trending toys list for the 2022 festive season.  Recognised globally as the leader in toys, Toys R Us, after months of sourcing, testing and predicting trends, has carefully curated an assortment that showcases top toy trends, inspired by popular culture, that stimulate imagination and growth as well as encouraging interactive play across several age groups. “Social consciousness, post-pandemic living, nostalgia and consumers looking for value have all impacted this year’s toy trends,” says Catherine Jacoby, Marketing Manager at Toys R Us. “Consumers are driven more than ever by experiences and parents are looking for toys that give their children memories outside of the digital world.” She explains that this year parents can expect screen-free toys to top the list of trends and toys that encourage hands-on play and skill building. “We’re so excited to kick off the most magical time of the year with the coolest and most sought-after toys of the season.” She adds that this year’s list features a broad assortment of gift ideas for every age and interest and highlights twenty-two hero products that make gift-shopping easy. “From active and sensory play to play sets featuring kids’ favourite characters, this year’s top toy list encourages grownups to wrap up an extra-special gift that sparks hours of imaginative play and years of memories,” she says. “By identifying the top play trends to we’re making it easier than ever to find toys every kid will love, spreading joy and delight to families and kids of all ages,” Jacoby explains. “We’re expecting a retro revival this year across older age groups as collectible toys are topping the trends.”  This year’s Top Toy List includes some exclusive items to Toys R Us, like the Caylee Beach Villa, Peppa Pigs Clever Car, Lego sets, Muscle Remote Control Car, 4WD Drift Remote control Car, Reggies Police Car SUV Ride On and a full range of Squishmallows Hugmees which won Toy of the Year 2023. “Family play still remains a strong trend this year, with board games, puzzles and outdoor games all featuring amongst consumers’ wish lists,” says Jacoby. “Roleplay, sensory and educational play has also seen a surge following the pandemic with parents investing more in toys that teach their kids through the power of play.” Collectible toys are becoming increasingly popular which is fuelling the kidult trend she explains. “The growing ‘kidult’ trend was fuelled by the pandemic, with more adults than ever turning to toys to bring joy and levity into their lives. Toys and games have been a means of escapism for adults and offer a way to reconnect with their own inner child with toys like Funko Pop.” Notably, Jacoby adds that one of the most significant trends this year is unboxing and collectibles. “It’s all about the full experience from packaging to unboxing and then the replay experience,” she says. “The element of surprise, blind unboxing with kids looking for more, toys like Squishmallows Hugmees and Barbie® Color Reveal™ will be topping the Christmas wish lists.” “Construction with Lego and imaginative play and building things your way has seen a huge surge in extended play and building through imagination,” Jacoby explains. “This year is really about getting back to the core of having fun and we’re looking forward to being able to champion joy with something for everyone.” “Dinosaurs are always a firm favourite, more and more categories are incorporating this trend into their toys,” Jacoby explains. “This has also seen more of a resurgence following the release of the new Jurassic World franchise and the Jurassic World Thrash n Devour T-Rex will be on the lists of many kids.” Fashion in toys is really coming to the forefront with brands like L.O.L Surprise and Barbie Colour Reveal, Jacoby explains that different body shapes, diversity and toys that are relatable and aspiring which allow kids to express themselves through roleplay is being seen across many of the doll categories. Combined with the launch of the top toys, Geoffrey reveals the ‘Big Book of Toys’, a special bumper gift guide featuring 68 catalogue pages filled with wondrous toys including something for everyone young and old this festive season which will be available in-store nationwide as well as online from the 31st of October. In addition, Jacoby says, one lucky customer could stand a chance to win their toy registry valued at R20,000 by creating their gift registry online at www.toysrus.co.za. “Value both for our business and South African business is of utmost importance,” Jacoby adds. “We want to provide joy to everyone and we have made sure that we have sourced products across categories with more ways to play to fit every budget.” “Our Christmas wish is that everyone gets to experience a little bit of Toys R Us magic and never grow up,” she explains. “It’s with this in mind that we have partnered with Reach for a Dream, customers will be encouraged to add an extra R5 onto their purchase which will be donated to the organisation to continue making wishes come true.” #1 RAINBOCORNS EGGZANIA SURPRISE MANIA SERIES 1 ASSORTED #2 MAGIC MIXIES MAGIC CAULDRON PLAYSET #3 BARBIE® COLOR REVEAL™ TOTALLY NEON FASHIONS DOLL ASSORTED #4 CAYLEE BEACH VILLA – exclusive to Toys R Us #5 BABY ALIVE PRINCESS ELLIE GROWS UP LIKE ISABELLA & SOPHIA #6 L.O.L SURPRISE QUEENS GRILL & GROOVE CAMPER #7 Angel High Itty bitty Prettys Capsule Doll with Color Change Assorted #8 REGGIES MUSCLE 1:10 SCALE RC CAR – exclusive to Toys R Us #9 REV UP RAPID 4WD RC DRIFT CAR ASSORTED  – exclusive to Toys R Us #10 TECH DECK DISPLAY SKATE SHOP     #10 JURASSIC WORLD THRASH N DEVOUR T-REX #11 MARVEL GOO JIT ZU SINGLE ASSORTED #12 X-SHOT SKINZ DREAD SONIC #13 REGGIES POLICE CAR SUV RIDE ON 12V – exclusive to Toys R Us #14 PAW PATROL LOOK OUT PLAYSET #15 REGGIES MINI

November 4, 2022

Play helps children-and parents-talk about big issues

We love how children laugh while they play, and we marvel at their imagination and creativity as they have fun and make games out of whatever items they have in hand – but it’s worth remembering that play is a way to prepare children for the future, in so many ways. According to the LEGO® 2022 Play Well Study*, 90% of South African parents agree that play has an important role in children’s development. Furthermore, 95% of parents believe that play helps children learn judgement and decision making, and 96% think it helps them be able to question and make up their own minds. When it comes to skills needed for the future world of work, 88% of parents agree that play helps build resilience and emotional intelligence, while 95% agree that it helps build leadership skills and critical thinking. Importantly, 93% of parents believe that toys can help children learn about diversity, and 89% of them think that toy companies have a role in creating a tolerant society though inclusive toy. Toys can help facilitate conversations about gender and sexuality that parents might otherwise not know how to initiate or facilitate, supporting the 9 in 10 parents who believe that it’s important to discuss diversity, equity and inclusion topics. Adding even more impact to this, 98% of parents believe that playing together builds stronger family bonds. One of the reasons for this is that play helps children learn language and  literacy, whether it’s through adults describing the toy or game to them, or whether it’s through listening to songs and poems. “Parents surveyed also said that playing with LEGO bricks helps develop their children’s emotional, physical, social and cognitive skills, including collaborating with others, and learning from mistakes,” says Miroslav Riha, country manager for LEGO Group in South Africa. Play also teaches children how to communicate, whether it’s through hearing stories or participating in make-believe play. This is where they learn about their role in their family and community, and how language works. “All these various learnings and skills come together to give children the language and social skills that they need to navigate the world around them – whether it’s to engage in day to day basics, or to understand more complex topics,” Riha adds. “Playing might just look like a whole lot of fun – but it’s a vital building brick in our children’s social fabric, and equips them to deal with the world that they’re growing up in. *The 2022 LEGO Play Well Study builds on the success of the 2018 and 2020 studies, which were designed to provide a bank of compelling insights and data about child, parent, and adult perceptions and behaviors on different topics. A 20 minute online quantitative survey was conducted across 35 markets between January and March 2022, asked to a total of 57,374 respondents, including 32,781 parents with children aged 1-12 years old, and 24,593 children aged 5-12.

November 3, 2022

Can You Drink Alcohol When You Have High Cholesterol?

Affinity Health is a leading provider of high-quality health cover. Here are their views on binge drinking for people living with high cholesterol. A glass or two of red wine daily can lessen the chance of developing heart disease. Alcohol has some heart-healthy properties. But before you raise a glass and toast to your heart, you should be aware of the dangers of alcohol. Can Alcohol Raise Cholesterol Levels? First, the good news! Moderate drinkers have lower incidences of cardiovascular disease. They may even live longer than abstainers. Additionally, alcohol may reduce the risks of blood clots. Alcohol can also reduce inflammation. Red wine may be beneficial for reducing the risk of heart disease and death. It includes higher levels of natural plant compounds, such as resveratrol. This is a compound with antioxidant characteristics and may protect artery walls. What Are The Dangers Of Consuming Too Much Alcohol? Now, the bad news! Light to moderate alcohol intake may be beneficial to your heart health. But excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of: Heart disease and stroke. Blood pressure. Obesity. Triglyceride levels in the blood. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption can result in: Cardiac muscle damage (cardiomyopathy). Irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia). Stroke. Heavy alcohol consumption may render the heart too weak to pump effectively. That is a condition known as congestive heart failure. Learn More: The Effects of Alcohol on the Brain All You Need To Know About Cholesterol You may know that cholesterol is dangerous to your health. But your body needs cholesterol to execute essential functions. Examples include producing hormones and constructing cells. Cholesterol circulates through the blood on two lipoproteins: HDL high-density lipoproteins That is the good cholesterol that can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. LDL low-density lipoproteins That is the bad cholesterol that can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Excessive LDL cholesterol can accumulate in your blood vessel walls. That accumulation is known as plaque. As your blood vessels accumulate plaque over time, their interiors become constricted. That constriction can eventually obstruct blood flow to and from vital organs. Blood flow obstruction may cause angina or a heart attack. “Your body requires cholesterol for proper functioning. But too much cholesterol can lead to health problems. That includes an increased risk of heart disease. So, maintaining a healthy cholesterol level is essential,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. Affinity Health does not recommend that you start drinking alcohol to lower your cholesterol or improve circulation due to the dangers of alcohol consumption. Instead, Affinity Health recommends: Controlling your weight. Consuming a balanced diet. Exercising regularly to maintain appropriate cholesterol levels. “If you do plan to drink, consult with your doctor first. Drink in moderation (one glass of wine or beer a day for women, two for men),” adds Hewlett. Does It Matter How Often And How Much You Drink? Many variables influence the effects of alcohol on health, including cholesterol levels. It is important to remember that alcohol affects individuals differently. For instance, women are more vulnerable to the effects of alcohol. That is because they have lower quantities of the alcohol-degrading enzyme dehydrogenase. So, women cannot metabolise alcohol at the same pace as men. They absorb more alcohol into their bloodstream. That is why alcohol consumption recommendations vary by gender. Current recommendations for moderate alcohol consumption are one drink or fewer per day for women and two drinks or less per day for men. When Should You Consult A Physician? A healthcare expert can analyse your cholesterol levels and potential heart disease risk factors. They can determine whether they are within a healthy range. “Light to moderate alcohol consumption is unlikely to worsen cholesterol levels. But heavy alcohol consumption is dangerous. If you are concerned that your drinking is negatively impacting your health, you should visit a medical expert,” concludes Hewlett. Learn More: What is Alcohol Use Disorder?

November 3, 2022

NutriPure Vitamin Gummies – A chewy and tasty vitamin for everyone

Fruits and vegetables are powerhouses of concentrated micronutrients. Most people today are familiar with the fact that professionals recommend consuming at least five servings of vegetables or fruits per day. It is important that we recognize that dietary supplements cannot replace any balanced diet but can support and help maintain good health and general well-being. Today, more people need food supplements to support their diets and to keep their bodies in good working order. Nutripure has recognised the fact that many people don’t enjoy taking pills, so NutriPure has created delicious gummies for individuals to bridge the gap in nutrition. With NutriPure chewable gummies for adults and kids, your whole family can now enjoy taking vitamins conveniently with no pain associated with swallowing tablets or capsules. NutriPure gummies are specially formulated for adults and kids with natural pectin.  NutriPure gummies help to unlock energy, support immunity, maintain overall health, and enable you to enjoy the goodness your body requires to thrive – all with just one gummy vitamin per day. NutriPure contains no added preservatives, no artificial flavours or colourants, is free of dairy, wheat, nuts, and eggs, and has no sugar coating. Kids variants are suggested for 3+ years.  NutriPure for Adults NutriPure Vitamin D3 (From R 134.95) helps maintain strong bones and teeth plus is excellent for the immune system and is known to aid in the fight against viruses. Vitamin D contributes to: The normal function of the immune system The maintenance of normal bones and teeth The maintenance of normal muscle function Normal absorption/utilization of calcium and phosphorus NutriPure Apple Cider Vinegar (From R159.95) gummies contain apple cider vinegar, enriched with Vitamin C and B6. Vitamin B6 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Vitamin C and B6 contribute to the normal function of the immune system.   Nutritional highlights: With 500mg of Apple Cider Vinegar per serving for immune support and metabolism Vitamin C for immune health Vitamin B6 for energy-yielding metabolism Vitamin C & B6 to reduce tiredness & fatigue NutriPure Immune Support (From R134.95) has been carefully formulated with 6 essential vitamins and minerals: Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Zinc, and Selenium which all contribute to the maintenance of good health. Each NutriPure Multivitamin (From R134.95) contains a balanced dosage of 12 essential vitamins and minerals: Vitamin D, B6, B12, C, biotin, pantothenic acid, and niacin help to metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins and are factors in the maintenance of good health. NutriPure for Kids NutriPure Vitamin C 60s/120s (From R 109.95) contributes to the immune system by helping to boost immunity. Vitamin C also contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system and can reduce fatigue and exhaustion. Nutripure gummies contain 80mg of vitamin C.  At any age, a balanced gut is highly important in keeping the body in healthy working order. NutriPure Probiotics (From R 164,95) is formulated with Bifidobacterium infantis & Lactobacillus rhamnosus, two scientifically tested bacteria strains. Each Nutripure gummy contains 1 billion live cultures to help your child boost their daily culture intake. Ideal to use everyday Important to take when children are on antibiotics NutriPure Immune Support + (From R 109.95) contains a unique blend of 6 essential vitamins and minerals that all contribute to the normal function of the immune system. Vitamin C, B6, and B12 help to metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins and are factors in the maintenance of good health. NutriPure Vitamin D (From R109.95) helps maintain strong bones and teeth plus is excellent for the immune system and is known to aid in the fight against viruses. Vitamin D contributes to: The normal function of the immune system The maintenance of normal bones and teeth The maintenance of normal muscle function Normal absorption/utilization of calcium and phosphorus NutriPure Multivitamin (From R109.95) contributes to the function of children’s immune systems and the function of many other systems in the body. Each NutriPure Multivitamin complete contains 11 essential vitamins & minerals: vitamin D, B6, B12, C, biotin, pantothenic acid, and niacin help to metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins and are factors in the maintenance of good health.  Nutripure can be found at Dis-Chem, Clicks, Takealot, and other major retailers.  For more information go to http://nutripure.co.za/

November 2, 2022

Beauty essentials for every kind of woman

As women, we are diverse when it comes to our beauty routines. Some of us spend hours getting ready, while others only need a few minutes. Sometimes we need plenty of products and tools in order to feel our best, and other times we feel confident without having done any grooming at all. All of us have unique beauty needs, but regardless of your regime, there are some products that all women can benefit from – even if you’re really low maintenance! Here’s a breakdown of the beauty products all women should have in their arsenal: Dry shampoo Have you ever said no to a last-minute invitation because you haven’t washed your hair? You wouldn’t be alone – many women schedule social events around their hair wash cycle, and with good reason. Washing, conditioning and drying one’s hair is time-consuming, and most of us do not do it every day. Dry shampoo is an essential every woman should keep in her bathroom. It allows you to extend the length between washes by another day, and it’s a lifesaver when you’re running late or need to make an unexpected appearance somewhere. COLAB Dry Shampoo (R99.99) leaves hair feeling and looking refreshed without any white or powdery residue. It soaks up grease and leaves hair beautifully fragrant. Hair perfume While the majority of women cannot resist a beautiful perfume, not everyone enjoys a strong scent on their skin. The alternative is to spray perfume onto your hair, but the high alcohol content can be drying and damaging. The answer? Delicately-formulated hair perfume! Made with ingredients that are gentle on the hair but leave a beautiful trail of scent, hair perfume is suitable for every woman, regardless of hair type, and is great to carry in your handbag for use throughout the day. Curls In Bloom Hair Perfume (R99.95) has a light and nourishing formula infused with botanical ingredients. It delicately scents the hair with green apples, lily of the valley and sandalwood, and the formulation fights frizz, leaving hair soft and nourished throughout the day. Basic makeup items We say “basic” because we know that not everyone likes to wear a lot of makeup. Many women prefer to keep it natural, only using a few makeup products from time to time. Whether you want a boost of confidence for a meeting, or you want to accentuate your best features, investing in a handful of key makeup items means you can polish off your look whenever the need strikes. No woman can go wrong with mascara. No matter what your hair colour, complexion or overall style preferences, black mascara is flattering on everyone. It “opens” the eyes by lifting the top lash line and accentuates the length and volume of lashes. wet n wild Big Poppa Mascara  (R169.95) delivers outrageous volume, length and lift. Infused with castor oil, this dramatically lengthening and intensely black mascara makes even the shyest of lashes stand out. A basic black eye pencil and eyeshadow palette are a must-have in every makeup kit. A versatile pencil allows you to create a cat eye, smokey eye, a trendy wing or just a thin line for definition. Try wet n wild MegaLast Breakup-Proof Retractable Eyeliner in Black (R74.95). Lightweight, comfortable, and long-lasting, it applies onto the lids smoothly without tugging or pulling the delicate eye area. An eyeshadow palette makes eyeshadow application super easy as it pairs complementary colours together. A palette containing both matte neutral shades as well as a few shimmery shades ensures you’re covered for any occasion. We love wet n wild’s 10 Pan Eyeshadow Palette in Lights Off (R179.95). It features high-impact colours in matte, satin, shimmer and metallic finishes and the rich pigment and high payoff formula blends effortlessly with a soft glide application. And last but not least, let’s not forget the lips. Keeping a couple of liquid lipstick shades in your kit will ensure you’re prepared for any occasion. wet n wild MegaLast Liquid Catsuit Hi Shine Lipstick (R119.95) combines the comfort and shine of a gloss with the high pigment of a lipstick, giving your lips brilliant, high-shine and ultra-pigmented lip lacquer to deliver a mirror-like gloss finish. Makeup tools Whether you apply makeup every day or only on special occasions, every woman should own a good set of tools to ensure flawless application. While there are a lot of different makeup brushes and sponges on the market, you only need a few to cover standard day-to-day makeup looks. We recommend investing in a makeup brush set like Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Set (R650.00). This set includes four brushes (a blush brush for cheeks, a crease brush for eyelids, a setting brush for powder and an expert face brush for foundation) and an egg-shaped makeup sponge with a point tip at the bottom and angular, planar portion at the top. Makeup sponge fans will love the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge (from R129.95). Its flat edge allows you to contour around the eyes and nose and its sides blend large areas of the face. You can use it damp or dry with liquid foundation for a beautiful finish. Nail colour Well-groomed nails instantly give you an overall polished look. Whether you prefer neutrals, bright colours or pretty pastels, wearing nail colours is for everyone! Those who have a steady hand and enjoy painting their own nails will love wet n wild’s Wild Shine Nail Colors (R37.95). Fast drying, the formulas have a high shine finish and are available in a wide variety of bright, nude, pastel and glitter shades. If you don’t enjoy painting your nails but you love the look of a fresh manicure, then Kiss ImPress Press-On Manicure is for you. These gel nails look and feel like your natural nails, with no glue needed – simply press on and go! They are safe to use on natural nails, chip and smudge proof, and offer hassle-free removal. The set includes 30 nails, a prep pad, a file, and a

November 2, 2022

Spring-clean Your Health and your Home this Season and Feel Good Fragrantly

Spring uses Nature’s buds, blossoms and aromatic shrubs that grow from the rich soil to announce the first euphoric days of the Season, filling the air with a symphony of colour, sweet floral scents and zesty fragrances. With longer days and extra sunlight, Spring is a time to amplify our lives and homes with essential aromatherapy oils for fresh verve and vitality. While Spring makes most of us feel uplifted and happy; for others it can be a time of pollen, spores and insects which cause irritations and allergic reactions. Hay fever and allergies carry similar symptoms to colds, bringing on runny noses, sore throats and sneezing as our immune systems mistake the harmless environmental particles as a harmful virus switching on the body’s defence system, leaving you feeling stuffy, sick, fatigued and unable to concentrate. Luckily, these self-diagnosable and self-treatable allergy symptoms can find relief with Nature’s perfect antidote to Spring with its organic, natural apothecary of concentrated essential oil blends and remedies to soothe unwanted reactions, spring clean our homes and our mind, body and soul, so we can invite more light and energy in. SPRINGTIME BOOSTERS   Aromatherapy’s natural essential oils have a powerful and positive effect on the human body, encouraging healing and overall good health. Use this quick Guide to pinpoint your personal needs for mood, energy, and pain relief and alleviate any seasonal symptoms specific to you. BRIGHT FLORALS Travel Ready: Treat jetlag, clear your head and relieve fatigue naturally with fragrant Lemongrass essential oil 10ml R45.00 which stimulates, revives and energizes your body. It can also be used as an air freshener or insect repellent and it perfect to pop a bottle in your travel bag or add to your diffuser in the office or home environment with the easy to use Lemongrass Wax Melts  (8 pcs) R60 placed on top of your ceramic burner to release the elegant aroma of lemongrass. Skin Tonic: With its distinct earthy aroma, Patchouli Oil 10ml R100.00 is a regenerating skin care oil with anti-inflammatory and bactericidal effect while cell regenerating Palmarosa Oil 10ml R75.00 is also useful as skin care oil with tonic effect. Add 1-2 drops of oil into your preferred skincare product to moisturise problem skin that is blemished or wrinkled. Spring Break Kit: Our favourite SOiL luggage kit is the Aromatherapy Holiday Set R380.00 which includes Avocado Carrier Oil: perfect for blending your essential oils or using as a nourishing body or hair oil on its own, 4 x Essential Oil: Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Rose Geranium and Lavender PLUS a Relief Remedy Roller: a pre-blend of soothing and relieving essential oils in a carrier oil ready for topical application on insect and mozzie bites. ZESTY UPLIFTERS Brace Yourself: For uplifting action,  Bergamot 10ml R150.00 refreshes and restores your mind and energy levels. Expressed from the peel of the fruit of the bitter orange tree, it is also helpful for colds, flu, PMS and nervous digestive complaints. When creating your own enhanced spicy, amber, oriental, woody blend, you will find it mixes well with sandalwood, rosemary, ylang ylang, vetiver, frankincense and black pepper. Green Citrusy Clean: Good as a deodorant and containing astringent and antiseptic qualities Lime Essential Oil 10ml R70.00 is great for oily skin and pimples when blended with a carrier oil and applied to the skin. Expand its possibilities using your SOiL ceramic room diffuser with the SOiL Energy Blend  10ml R125.00 containing Clary Sage, Lime, Cypress and Black Pepper to stimulate the mind and energise the body as it permeates the room and fragrances the air. Treat dry skin and a dull complexion with citrusy, warm Sweet Orange Oil 10ml  R30 an affordable option for teenagers to improve the texture of the skin and promote clarity, radiance, and smoothness, reducing the signs of acne and other seasonal skin conditions. Never apply pure essential oils directly onto the skin; it must always be blended together with a quality carrier oil first. Deodorise your home with a refreshing citrus aroma with antiseptic and lively Lemon Essential Oil 10ml R40.00 or Spring gift it as a housewarming treat for a friend’s new home. AROMATIC HEALERS Find instant and natural relief from pain, allergy and sinus symptoms, and pesky Spring hay fever! Breathe Easy: With its sharp, strong refreshing menthol scent Peppermint Oil 10ml R60 provides relief from pain and allergy symptoms. Add 3-4 drops to a diffuser to help purify your respiratory system and relieve nasal congestion. For added boost, the Easy Breathe Blend 10ml R75.00 helps ease congestion for symptoms of cold and flu. Blend with your preferred carrier oils and rub it onto your temples, neck and forehead to soothe headaches. For Young & Old Popular and affordable Eucalyptus Oil  10ml R30 is a home favourite that is safe to use in low dilutions for children and the elderly. A powerful tonic, for the respiratory system it alleviates sinus symptoms and boosts your overall immunity. Steam inhalation of essential oils is ideal for fast relief. Simply add 1-2 drops of Eucalyptus Oil to a bowl of boiled water and inhale. For best results, drape a towel over your head to keep the steam in and close your eyes. Fungi Go: Bringing healing to your home and your immune system, pure essential Thyme Oil 10ml R125.00 or the Immunity Blend 10ml R85.00 inhibits the growth of bacteria, fungi and viruses and is highly effective for sore throats, allergy and other flu-like symptoms. A common ingredient in throat and nose lozenges, thyme acts as an expectorant, clearing mucus from the lungs and throat. Add 2 drops of essential Thyme oil to a vaporiser and step into a cleaner, greener Spring season. Make Spring smell like a poem of a healthier, happier you when you open up Nature’s own apothecary when browsing the SOiL online shop here and make your selection of oils, blends, roll on and diffusers prepared and packaged for your fragrant at-home convenience.  Website: www.soil.co.za Facebook: @SOiLAromatherapy Instagram: @soilorganic

November 1, 2022

Why protective hairstyles are perfect for the lingering chill

If you’re experiencing the chill, you might want to consider wearing your hair in a protective hairstyle. Protective hairstyles allow you to shield your hair from cold weather, preserving its moisture content and protecting it from damage. Cold weather can be drying for textured hair, as the wind and low humidity can dehydrate curls and lead to breakage. Protective styles like box braids, cornrows and Bantu knots preserve natural hair by limiting its exposure to the elements.  Try one of these protective hairstyles to ensure your hair healthy and happy in the lead up to summer: Box braids Box braids are one of the most popular protective hairstyles, and with good reason! They’re low-maintenance, extremely versatile and suitable for any length of hair. Box braids are characterised by square or triangle-shaped hair divisions (also known as boxes). This style doesn’t require a lot of maintenance but using a few key products will ensure your hair and scalp stays healthy. We recommend cleansing hair with a gentle co-wash or shampoo regularly. The newly launched The Perfect Hair Grow on the Go Waterless Cleanser (R99.95) cleanses, refreshes and soothes hair and scalp. It is specially formulated for curls and coils and is enriched with Peppermint Oil and Rosemary. To keep your moisture levels up, spritz a mist like Cantu’s Shea Butter Coconut Oil Shine & Hold Mist (R215.00) or apply a lightweight oil to soothe your scalp Cantu Tea Tree & Jojoba Scalp Oil (R175.00), daily. Bantu knots Bantu knots are as trendy as they are practical. When preparing this style, apply an oil spray to the scalp and hair to nourish, protect and stimulate hair growth. We recommend Jamaican Mango & Lime Black Castor Oil Argan Oil (R99.99). Follow with a leave-in conditioner like Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave in Conditioner (R150.00). It can be applied to each section from root to tip. Once your Bantu knots are secured, we recommend applying a leave-in hair treatment for added moisture. Try Cantu Avocado Coconut Curling Cream (R219.95). It smooths hair and enhances your natural curl pattern to produce frizz-free volume.  Cornrows A popular style for both men and women, cornrows protect hair and look great, but when they’re in, you’ll need to give your hair plenty of moisture to keep them looking good for longer and to maintain the health of your scalp. Before you start braiding, be sure to give your hair a good (but gentle) brush to ensure there are no knots or tangles. The Evolve Flow Thru Detangler (R59.95) gently detangles and smoothes hair without snagging or pulling. It gently removes tangles without tearing, ripping, or breaking the hair. We recommend applying a leave-in conditioner to lock in moisture and protect your hair before you start braiding. Try Umberto Giannini Banana Butter Repair and Restore Leave-In Conditioner (R150.00). This silicone-free repairing and moisturising leave-in conditioner is your wonder product to repair, strengthen and de-frizz naturally curly and super curly hair without weighing it down.  Once your cornrows are in place, you’ll need to moisturise your hair and scalp regularly to ensure its health. We recommend applying an oil between the cornrows and against the scalp to keep the scalp moisturised. Try Curls in Bloom Strengthen Me! Hair Oil (R89.95) to seal in moisture and nourish the scalp with castor oil, ylang ylang and lemongrass oils.  Pineapple updo One of the easiest protective hairstyles to create, and one of the most flattering, the pineapple updo involves hair being gathered on top of your head (imagine you are about to tie it up in a high ponytail) and then it is secured with a scrunchie or hair band. Simple but effective, the pineapple updo looks great for work, for home, or for an event. You can mix yours up by playing around with your curls (some women like to tease their curls for high volume). Cantu Avocado Styling Gel (R149.95) is the perfect product to smooth your hair down at the base of your head and keep it in place. Apply The Perfect Hair Mango & Marula Moisturizing Leave-In Butter (R99.95) to your pineapple updo daily to keep your curls hydrated and soft. This rich leave-in styling butter is enriched with mango and marula extracts for 24-hour moisture and curl retention.  Crochet braiding A braided hairstyle, this look is achieved by looping synthetic hair extensions through one’s natural hair with a crochet needle. Stylish and versatile, crochet braids offer a variety of style options as you can wear them both long and short. Crochet braids should remain intact for around four weeks, but during that time you’ll need to take care when washing, as rubbing or tugging could lead to the braids coming undone. We recommend using a co-wash for your lengths and a spray bottle containing watered-down shampoo for the scalp. Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair Complete Conditioning Co-Wash (R215.00) or Perfect Hair Grow on the Go Waterless Cleanser (R99.95) are good options. Once you’ve rinsed the shampoo / co-wash from your hair, spray your scalp with a leave-in treatment product like Nilotiqa Shea & Coco Anti-Itch Hair & Scalp Spray (R99.99). Rich and creamy, it provides natural hair with optimum moisture from the root. Add a moisturiser to the lengths of your hair like Cantu’s Shea Butter Daily Oil Moisturizer (R175.00), which uses the nourishing power of shea butter to help replenish lost moisture in dry and damaged hair.

October 31, 2022

What is the Link Between Smoking and Heart Disease?

Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, discusses how smoking affects circulation this Heart Awareness Month. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) includes heart disease and strokes. It is the primary cause of disability and death worldwide. It accounts for 31% of all deaths, or 17 million deaths annually. Previously, more than half of deaths due to CVD occur before age 65. By 2030, premature deaths due to CVD among adults of working age (35-64 years) may increase by 41%. The statistics supplied by The Heart And Stroke Foundation for SA are also grim. CVD kills more South Africans than all the cancers combined. It causes about one in six deaths in South Africa (17.3%). Every day, 215 individuals die from heart disease or strokes. “The risk of CVD increases with the number of cigarettes smoked. Even if the duration of smoking is minimal, smoking less than five cigarettes per day may cause early signs of CVD,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. Murray, who obtained his MBA from Charles Sturt University in 2008, encourages healthy living. He continues to say that cigarettes with less tar or nicotine don’t lessen the risk of CVD. But non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke are at a higher risk of developing CVD.  How Smoking Harms the Cardiovascular System  When you breathe, your lungs absorb oxygen and transport it to your heart. Your heart pumps oxygen-rich blood throughout your body’s arteries. But when you inhale smoke, the blood transported throughout the body becomes tainted. It carries the toxins from the smoke. At this stage, your blood has more than 7 000 chemical compounds in cigarette smoke. That can interfere with vital processes that maintain normal function. That blocks your heart and blood vessels, leading to CVD. Smoking is also a known cause of abdominal aorta damage, which may cause a life-threatening aneurysm.  Quitting Smoking Cuts CVD Risks  Even though we do not know which smokers will develop CVD due to smoking, quitting is best for their hearts. Quitters instantly begin to enhance heart health and minimise the risk for CVD. Within one day of quitting smoking, the following occurs: Your heart rate slows down. Your blood pressure stabilises. Carbon monoxide levels decrease. Oxygen can reach your heart and other organs faster. Within two to three months, this is what happens in the body: Your senses of smell and taste improve. Your lungs start to regain the capacity to clean themselves. You can cough up mucus, which keeps your airways clean. Blood flow to your hands and feet improves. Within one year: Your lungs are healthier. You can breathe easier. Within two to six years:  Your heart attack or stroke risk drops. Severe health risks continue to decrease over time. Learn More: Can Quitting Smoking Reverse Diabetes? Where to Get Help Around 20% of South Africa’s adult population (age 15+) smokes cigarettes. And a 2012 survey found that about 5% of the adult population used other tobacco products. While quitting smoking is difficult, it is achievable. The most effective way to stop smoking is with a combination of: Support (from your GP, pharmacist, family and friends). Stop-smoking medicines such as nicotine replacement therapy. “Speak to your healthcare provider about nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). It may be safer for quitting smoking by supplying regulated doses of nicotine without the harmful compounds found in cigarette smoke,” concludes Murray. Learn More: Can You Afford the Health Risks of Smoking?

October 31, 2022

MULTICHOICE LAUNCHES DEDICATED 24/7 MOONBUG KIDS CHANNEL FOR DStv AFRICA

New Moonbug Kids Channel promises fun-filled, wholesome entertainment to complement any family routine! A specially curated Moonbug Kids Channel is now available to DStv subscribers across Africa. The YouTube-focused pre-school entertainment company Moonbug Entertainment confirmed plans to launch the channel on DStv in October. The channel will feature exclusive, linear, preschool content from the Moonbug portfolio of much-loved shows. The agreement highlights DStv’s shift in mindset about digital-first content (content that was only available on digital platforms, like YouTube first). Other Moonbug linear Kids Channels have already launched in other territories across MENA and in APAC in The Philippines or Malaysia. “Digital-first content is entering traditional channels and reaching new audiences. . The quality and appeal of these shows has vastly improved over the past few years. Platforms like ours recognize these shows’ benefits in adding value to our customers. .” Explained Georginah Machiridza, Executive Head of Content Strategy and Third-Party Channels at MultiChoice Group. The Moonbug Kids channel will be available to 21.7 million DStv subscribers across 45 African countries and will air in English. All Moonbug shows will be featured on the channel including CoComelon, Blippi, Gecko’s Garage, Morphle, Arpo, and recent acquisitions such as Little Angel and Oddbods. “This an incredibly significant deal for us and part of our wider strategy to roll out Moonbug Kids channels on pay-TV platforms across EMEA and APAC,” Moonbug EMEA and APAC managing director Nicolas Eglau said. “Launching a premium, advertising-free, linear channel with DStv is one key advantage of our digital-first approach. It enables us to structure the channel by applying our in-depth knowledge of children’s viewing, including when and how they engage with content.” Eglau continued. Moonbug Entertainment is creating the channel with a dedicated 24/7 programming schedule. It will feature engaging entertainment that not only pacifies but supports children’s development. The schedule will also support families with their daily routines such as mealtimes, playtime, bath time, bedtime, and more.  “MultiChoice are very selective about the kind of channel that gets on the platform, so for us being on MultiChoice is almost like a quality stamp of approval,” Eglau concluded. Moonbug shows promote healthy values like compassion, empathy, and resilience to kids around the world. “We’re all parents. Moonbug was started by parents for parents. And as such we want to create great entertainment for kids all around the world – which kids will love – and their parents will love that they love.” Ditte Lucas, Head of Brand at Moonbug added. The ad-free, premium offering is available on MultiChoice Africa platforms (DStv and GOtv) from 20 October 2022. 

October 31, 2022

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CAUSE OF CERVICAL CANCER?

“Long-lasting human papillomavirus (HPV) may lead to cervical cancer,” says Affinity Health. Cervical cancer affects the cells of the cervix. The lower part of the uterus links to the vagina. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection. It contributes to most cervical cancer cases. Cancer of the cervix starts when healthy cells in the cervix undergo DNA alterations. The mutations cause the cells to grow out of control and increase without dying. The aberrant cells accumulate to form a bulk (tumour). Cancer cells can invade neighbouring tissues. They break off from a tumour to metastasise (spread) to other body parts. “It is unclear what causes cervical cancer. But HPV is a factor,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “Often, when exposed to HPV, the immune system stops the virus from causing harm. But in a tiny number of individuals, the virus lives for years. It contributes to the transformation of some cervical cells into cancerous cells. It’s important to note that not all women infected with HPV get cervical cancer. That means that lifestyle factors may influence if you will get cervical cancer.” What are the Symptoms of Cervical Cancer? Often, early-stage cervical cancer generates no symptoms. Included among the signs and symptoms of advanced cervical cancer are: Bleeding after sexual activity, between cycles, or after menopause. Bloody, watery vaginal discharge that may be thick and odorous. Pelvic pain or pain during sexual activity. Make an appointment with your doctor if you experience any concerns. Variations of Cervical Cancer The type of cervical cancer determines your prognosis and course of therapy. Principal kinds of cervical cancer include: Squamous cell carcinoma:  This cancer begins in the thin, flat cells that border the cervix. They can expand into the vagina. Most cervical malignancies are squamous cell carcinomas. Adenocarcinoma:  This cervical cancer develops in the glands lining the cervical canal. Both types of cells are sometimes involved in cervical cancer. Rarely, cancer may occur in other cervix cells. What Increases the Risk of Cervical Cancer? Among the risk factors for cervical cancer are: Many sexual partners:  The more sexual partners you have, the higher your likelihood of contracting HPV. Early sexual activity:  Early sexual activity raises the chance of contracting HPV. Other sexually transmitted diseases (STIs):  Other sexually transmitted infections increase the chances of HPV. These include: Chlamydia Gonorrhoea Syphilis HIV/AIDS A compromised immune system:  If another condition impairs your immune system and you have HPV, your risk of developing cervical cancer may be increased. Smoking:  Cigarette smoking is linked to squamous cell cervical cancer. How to Minimise your Cervical Cancer Risk Consult your physician about the HPV vaccine:  Vaccination against HPV infection may lessen the risk of cervical cancer and other malignancies. Ask your physician if an HPV vaccine is suitable for you. Perform regular Pap testing:  Pap tests can reveal precancerous cervix disorders. That can be monitored or treated to prevent cervical cancer. Most medical organisations recommend initiating Pap tests at age 21, to be repeated every few years. Learn More: 9 Essential Health Screenings for All Women Practice safe sex:  Reduce your chance of developing cervical cancer by using a condom every time you engage in sexual activity. Also, limit the number of sexual partners you have. Don’t smoke:  If you are a smoker, consult your physician about quitting methods. How Does Early Detection of Cervical Cancer Increase the Chances of Successful Treatment? Early detection is key to a positive outcome in cervical cancer cases.  Learn More: Why It Is Important to Detect Cervical Cancer Early? Affinity Health members have access to: 24/7 Telehealth Consultations with a Nurse, Doctor or Mental health Practitioner. Qualified Primary Healthcare Professionals at the Medical Society Centres.  Preventative screening, lifestyle advice and more! For more information, click here.

October 28, 2022

Grade Ten Subject Choices: How The Considerations Have Changed

The transition from Grade Nine to Grade Ten marks an important and eventful time in a student’s educational trajectory. One of the critical aspects of this transition is characterised by the selection of subject streams – coming up for all Grade Nines in the next few weeks – that essentially determine future study and career options, as well as a student’s performance in Matric.  But unlike previous years, factors that influence this decision have evolved post-pandemic, says education expert Philip Hlatshwayo, Head of Programme at The Independent Institute of Education, SA’s largest and most accredited private higher education provider. THINK LIKE A PROJECT MANAGER “Self-management is the one attribute or skill that has always been critical in a student’s academic journey. However, the need for this attribute intensified during the Covid19 pandemic, sparked by the sudden need for increased independence in academic work. The skills you gained during that time can now be harnessed when choosing subjects,” Hlatshwayo says. Similar to a company project, subject choice selection needs to be treated as a project, he notes. “A project generally requires a project management plan to be drawn up in order to ensure the success of the project. The critical aspects considered in any project are skills required, the knowledge required and strategies/techniques. “Subjects are no different and work in a similar model. That is, for each subject, a student needs to ask themself what skills am I required to have for this subject? The skills required for studying Physical Sciences will be different from the skills required for studying History. Self-introspection will therefore help you understand the skills you possess and can potentially develop.” What prior knowledge is critical for this subject? “There have been instances where students choose a subject such as Mathematics for which they lack basic knowledge and understanding that were supposed to be developed in the earlier phases. This leads to frustrations because of the requirements cast on the students once they get to Grade 10. “A critical reflection of the past grades and how you have handled the demands of a subject similar to the one you are choosing will save you a lot of time and stressful moments. But it should also be remembered that there is still time to develop competency in a core subject – with focus and hard work – if you are determined.” What studying strategies and techniques are necessary for this subject and do these strategies complement my learning capabilities? Hlatshwayo says students must consider the strategies and techniques needed to be successful in studying a particular subject. “For one student, thinking about various algebraic strategies in a Mathematics subject may come easy, for another, reading large quantities of History material may be preferred. There are areas in which we can excel and unleash our full potential if we think carefully about it.” Answering the questions above will be the first step towards understanding your starting point in this project of choosing the right subjects to support your future dreams. ACADEMIC SUPPORT Academic support involves various stakeholders such as your teacher, peers, family members, mentors and student support services at higher education institutions, who can help you in your journey. “As much as your teacher may help you with critical subject-related issues, you may at times need your mentor to help you establish the value of pursuing certain things in your academic journey and seeing the big picture,” says Hlatshwayo. “Student advisors at higher education institutions can further help you match your prospective subject choices to fields of study and career prospects. They are also able to guide you in terms of how the world of work has changed, and which skills will be in high demand by the time you finish your qualification. Using that information, you can work your way back to see which subjects you have to select now.” HIGH PERFORMANCE STRATEGY Armed with the information and approach as above, students should choose subjects that will both 1) leave them with a wide range of options and 2) allow them to perform to the best of their ability in their Matric exams. “Your subject choice should allow for gateway subjects such as core Maths and Science which will help you to keep your options open,” says Hlatshwayo.   “If you struggle in these subjects, at least retain one of them and focus your efforts. Even if you are not yet confident, remember that you have three years to work hard and get a solid grounding – it’s not too late to rise to the challenge.” Students should also consider what makes them happy, he says. “Select one or two subjects which interest you and throw yourself into the pursuit of mastery. If you ‘are able to find your feet and enjoyment in a particular area, that bodes well for your future career and self-actualisation.” And finally, students should choose some subjects that will help them boost their final results. “Admission to higher education is performance-based, so having some subjects in the bag where you know you can shoot the lights out if you work hard, will very likely improve your chances of success when applying for further study after Matric.” To learn more from our teachers and educational experts, read one of our other blogs. To find out more about Abbotts College and the work we do, visit the rest of our website. To learn more about how Abbotts College can improve your child’s educational journey, read more about our non-traditional approach. Feel free to call or email one of our campus administrators. ’ individuality.

October 27, 2022

What Are The Various Types Of Childhood Cancer?

According to Affinity Health, awareness of cancer in children is crucial.  Between 800 and 1000 South African children are diagnosed with cancer each year.  Sadly, childhood cancer survival rates in South Africa remain low. That is in comparison to international statistics. Many cases are detected too late when cancer has already reached an advanced stage. That reduces the likelihood of successful treatment. Did you know? September was International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month! In this light, Affinity Health is raising awareness about childhood cancers. What are the Childhood Cancer Survival Rates in SA? Many childhood cancers are treatable. High success rates range from 70% to 80% in countries with ample resources. In contrast, approximately 80% of children with cancer in Africa die. That is because they live without access to adequate care. Although South Africa has an established oncology healthcare service, the infrastructure is overburdened. Cancer knowledge in primary healthcare services is low. There are widespread service delivery issues. The overall South African survival rate for childhood cancer is 52.1%. Childhood Versus Adult Cancer Cancer can attack any body part and affects people of all ages. It begins with a genetic mutation in a single cell. That subsequently multiplies into a mass (or tumour) that spreads throughout the body. It is fatal if left untreated.  In contrast to adult cancer, most malignancies in children have no identified cause. Many studies have attempted to determine the causes of juvenile cancer. But only minimal cases signal environmental or lifestyle issues. “There is a significant difference between paediatric malignancies and adult cancers. That is due to children being prone to growth spurts within a short period. Thus, cancer grows quicker and more aggressively.  Treatment or guidance may be effective for adults. But it may not be effective for children,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. Hewlett is also a director of many for-profit and non-profit organisations.  “Most childhood cancers occur in growing cells. That includes bone marrow, blood, kidneys, and nervous system.” The five most prevalent childhood malignancies in South Africa from 2009 to 2013 were: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia  Brain and spinal cord malignancies Nephroblastoma Wilms’ tumour Lymphoma  Other types of childhood cancer are uncommon, but they occur occasionally. Children may rarely get cancers such as: Rhabdomyosarcoma Retinoblastoma Bone cancer (including osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma) What are the Top Five Cancers in Children? Leukaemia Leukaemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow and is the most prevalent type of childhood cancer. It accounts for around 28% of all childhood malignancies. Acute Lymphocytic Leukaemia (ALL) and Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) are the most prevalent forms among children.  Learn More: Why Children Get Leukaemia Symptoms associated with ALL and AML include: Bone and joint pain Fatigue Weakness Pale complexion Unexplainable bleeding or bruising Fever Rapid weight loss  Both ALL and AML can progress rapidly. Thus, they must be treated (usually with chemotherapy) upon diagnosis. Brain and Spinal Cord Malignancies Brain and spinal cord tumours account for around 26% of all juvenile malignancies. That makes them the second most prevalent malignancy in children. There are many forms of brain and spinal cord tumours, and therapy and prognosis vary for each. The majority of childhood brain cancers begin in the cerebellum and brain stem. They may cause: Headaches Nausea Vomiting Blurred Double vision Vertigo Seizures Difficulty walking Tumours of the spinal cord are less prevalent than brain tumours in children and adults. Neuroblastoma Neuroblastoma begins in early types of nerve cells. These are in an embryo or foetus that is developing. Neuroblastomas constitute roughly 6% of childhood malignancies. This malignancy is in newborns and young children. It is uncommon in youngsters above the age of 10.  The tumour can begin anywhere. But it typically starts in the abdomen, where it causes swelling. Additionally, it can cause symptoms such as bone pain and fever. Wilms’ Tumour Wilms’ tumour (also known as nephroblastoma) is a type of kidney cancer. It is most prevalent in children between three and four years old. It is uncommon in older children and adults. It can manifest as a bulge or lump in the abdomen.  Occasionally, a child may exhibit other symptoms, such as: Fever Discomfort Nausea Poor appetite Wilms’ tumour makes up around 5% of childhood malignancies. Lymphomas Lymphomas start in the following regions: Immune system cells called lymphocytes Lymph nodes Lymph tissues, such as the tonsils or thymus Bone marrow Other organs Depending on where cancer originates, symptoms may include: Weight loss Fever Night / Day sweats Exhaustion Lumps beneath the skin in the neck, armpit, or groin area Hodgkin lymphoma (also known as Hodgkin’s disease) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma are the two primary kinds of lymphoma. Both forms are in both children and adults. Hodgkin lymphoma represents around 3% of childhood malignancies. But it is more prevalent in early adulthood (often in the 20s) and late adulthood (after age 55). Hodgkin lymphoma is uncommon in children under five years old.  Non-Hodgkin lymphoma accounts for around 6% of childhood malignancies. It is more common in children under the age of three. These tumours frequently progress rapidly in children and need intensive treatment. But they also tend to react better to treatment than most adult non-Hodgkin lymphomas. Introducing Affinity Junior Early cancer detection is critical, particularly in the case of childhood cancers. So, Affinity Junior provides affordable healthcare for your children with cost-effective health coverage. The unique feature of the Affinity Junior plan is that the policy covers only your children. For more information on Affinity Junior, click here.  Learn More: Top 10 Cancer Myths Debunked

October 26, 2022

Drownings escalate in summer, have peace of mind by cover your pool with a PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover

Drownings in swimming pools always escalate in summer but why chance it – you probably won’t get to the pool in time? The best-selling child and pet safety cover, the PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover, gives you absolute peace of mind. Easy to use, it forms a complete barrier over the pool. Also reduces power, chemical and water consumption, so you will enjoy savings as well as safety! Don’t wait until it’s too late. 

October 26, 2022

Education 4.0 – a headmaster’s perspective

Welcome to the Exponential Age, where progress and change are inevitable. Since the time of the First Industrial Revolution when water and steam were used to power mechanised production, we are now in the grips of a digital revolution characterised by a fusion of technologies that is blurring the lines between the physical, digital, and biological spheres. According to a World Economic Forum report entitled “Catalysing Education 4.0: Investing in the Future of Learning for a Human-Centric Recovery”, the global imperative is for education to be reimagined, focusing on the breadth of skills needed to be successful in the age of the 4IR, and leveraging technological and pedagogical innovation to put learners at the centre of learning. The vision to prepare students for the economies of tomorrow is referred to as Education 4.0. How do we as educators roll with the digital punches? The full changes to our future are difficult to accurately predict, but one thing is clear: from an education perspective, the response to future needs must be interdisciplinary and comprehensive. Educators need to accept that as technology becomes more pervasive, traditional trades disappear and education must be aligned to the change in times.  Shifting from ‘the sage on the stage’ to ‘the guide from the side’ The traditional model, where the focus of the classroom was around the teacher (“the sage on the stage”) and children were seen as empty vessels needing to be filled with facts and knowledge, has changed to the teaching and learning modality where the teacher is not the focus of the class – but so much more. The role of the educator must evolve into one of “the guide from the side”, the facilitator of skills development, with a greater focus on higher-order thinking skills such as analysing, synthesis, application of knowledge and problem-solving. Core to these skills is creativity, which allows for each child to be an active participant in their learning with an expectation to not only be responsible and accountable for their part in the teaching and learning experience but to develop an appetite for being a lifelong learner. Teachers need to shift their focus onto education 4.0 by cultivating peer-to-peer learning atmospheres with students being able to learn collaboratively and from each other. Teachers must actively model change and the skills desired; we must guide, mentor, cheerlead, and nurture, but more importantly, ignite and inspire possibilities. Igniting curiosity at the early learning phase Within the Early Learning School phase. a good place to start is with firm roots in philosophies like the Reggio Emilia Philosophy, which is an innovative and inspiring approach to early childhood education, where each child is seen as strong, capable, and resilient; rich with wonder and knowledge. This philosophy rides on the coattails of the innate curiosity of children and aims to assist them with understanding their world and who they are in it. The learning experience is full of action learning, sensory experiences, play and discovery learning. As students move into the Preparatory and College stages in South African private schools, the journey of the IEB curriculum begins. However, it is vital to maintain rich, robust teaching and learning by applying global citizenship skills, technology skills, and problem-based and collaborative learning while focusing on the individual needs of each child. The focus is not just on completing an academic year or preparing for a matric and university entrance but extends towards preparing students to become globally marketable, where their inherent mindset of a ‘can do’ and ‘will do’ attitude is aligned with their flair towards entrepreneurship with a healthy balanced skill set which will serve them well as they will not only create the future, but creatively reinterpret it. Responsibility of schools to develop soft skills It is vital that schools acknowledge that the Fourth Industrial Revolution could not only impact what we do, but also who we are. It will affect our identity and all the issues associated with it: our sense of privacy, our notions of ownership, our consumption patterns, the time we devote to work and leisure, and how we develop our careers, cultivate our skills, meet people, and nurture relationships. To this end, an educator’s focus must also be on developing the soft skills of each student where their interpersonal skills, personality attributes, and people skills drive them towards a realisation as to how they will impact how they work with other people. Cognitive flexibility, resilience, originality, initiative, and emotional intelligence together with creative risk-taking, leadership growth, and the art of negotiation are all skills that we actively develop within each student. Finally, an additional consideration when deciding which skills will be valuable in the future is determining who will be assigning that value. To prepare for this, skills-based teaching and learning should be embedded in various aspects of academic, sports, arts and culture programmes. For more information, visit the Inspired Schools website and click on Africa & Middle East link. By Quinton Pascoe, Headmaster at Reddam House Waterfall

October 25, 2022

A unique education, for your unique child

One of the most difficult parenting decisions involves choosing which school your child will attend. For centuries schooling has typically taken place in a brick-and-mortar classroom. The decision on where and how to school a child was typically not based on whether a school offered a Cambridge, British or CAPS curriculum or on the child’s preferred learning style but rather on the child’s geographical location, family traditions and affordability.  As society and education advance, parents are now presented with a variety of options to consider when choosing an education pathway for their child. In this article, we will look at some of the benefits of choosing an alternative education and how you can personalise your child’s education through homeschooling or online schooling.  The benefits of online schooling  The average South African class size is roughly 30 learners for every teacher. In order to accommodate all children in an average classroom, educators pitch the content to the ‘average’ student. This approach can leave many students behind as they struggle to comprehend the coursework, and it can leave many students bored as they grasp the concepts quicker than the average.  Some children may be gifted in academics whilst others might be musically talented or show outstanding abilities on the sports field. A huge benefit to online schooling or homeschooling is the freedom and flexibility that it brings, enabling parents to harness their child’s unique talents and abilities.  This is the reason why many top child athletes or performers choose homeschooling over a traditional schooling environment. To professionally compete or to excel in academics, learners need the flexibility to adapt their education to their unique schedules, circumstances and abilities.  Academically strong children An academically gifted child will grasp concepts faster than the average student. A child who is bored in their learning will often lose focus and become a distraction in a typical classroom environment. The benefit of choosing an online schooling curriculum, like the Cambridge or International British curriculum offered by CambriLearn, is the freedom and flexibility to study at your own pace. Students can set the tempo of their learning, meaning they can speed up or slow down depending on what they can manage at the time.  When enrolling in a self-paced online curriculum, you don’t have to run according to a traditional school year with fixed terms, scheduling, lesson time or exam dates. Instead, the student’s school year starts on the day they enrol and will run for 12 months from that point. The syllabus is between 30 and 34 weeks long and allows students to complete the level before the 12 months are up.  Children with special learning needs In the same way that a personalised education approach can be better suited to academically gifted children, the same can be said for children with special learning needs.  A child with attentional issues presents with a different profile of strengths and weaknesses, interests, and dislikes. With an online school, like CambriLearn, you can prune your curriculum choice of subjects to allow for the consolidation of core skills. This means you can take on fewer subjects to ease the cognitive load in terms of organisational and time-management skills, in which kids with ADHD/ADD may have deficits.  With online schooling, students can also enjoy continuous formative and summative assessments that are self-timed with no fixed deadlines, as well as apply for learning provisions and exam accommodations (scribe, reader, additional time etc.). This method of schooling is a great alternative to a traditional schooling model as it assists learners with special learning needs, such as ADHD, in ensuring that they receive an internationally accredited education and helps instil a love for learning – throughout their schooling career.  Sporty or culturally gifted children A huge benefit to online homeschooling is the freedom and flexibility that it brings. This is why many top child athletes or performers choose to homeschool over traditional schooling. To professionally compete, learners need the flexibility to train, travel and study. Online homeschooling offers exactly that, enabling parents to focus on their child’s talents, to help them achieve their goals and a professional career.  For instance, a child who is musically oriented can be given music classes through online homeschooling alongside their academic lessons, and at an hour convenient to them. This will widen the child’s education and make it a more progressive experience. Whereas a child who excels in swimming can personalise their academic schedule to accommodate their training and competition calendar. This avoids putting unnecessary pressure on the child (and parents).  Travelling families or expats The self-paced learning style and flexibility of online schooling means students can move countries during a school year. With many families looking to explore international learning and travel opportunities, the CambriLearn British Curriculum offers an education solution that promotes freedom and flexibility whilst maintaining a syllabus and assessment objectives that are standardised worldwide.  There are many benefits to choosing an online schooling solution for your child’s education. By using online learning platforms like CambriLearn, either as enrichment for students attending traditional schools or as a permanent, full-time means of education, your child can enjoy a personalised education tailored to their unique learning needs.  If you would like to find out more about how you can personalise your child’s education through online schooling, then download this free Future-Ready Education e-book.  

October 25, 2022

The Perfect Hair launches eight new products to banish hair woes

Local hair care brand – The Perfect Hair – is known for offering quality, natural hair care formulations that effectively solve the hair concerns faced by South African women. With two successful ranges, Mango & Marula and Grow On The Go, The Perfect Hair is loved and trusted by the natural hair care community, and is proud to announce that they’re introducing eight brand new products to their existing ranges!   Filled with the very best natural ingredients to strengthen, soften and nourish natural hair, the new launches have arrived just in time to rescue your hair. Here’s what to expect: Grow On The Go The Grow On The Go range is dedicated to promoting and stimulating hair growth whilst still taking care of your basic hair care needs. The formulae contains basil root oil, which stimulates growth from the scalp. It also aids in the gentle yet effective cleansing of the scalp and hair. The range also utilises grapeseed oil, known for unclogging pores, reducing hair loss and preventing breakage. New launches include: *NEW* Grow On The Go Conditioning Wash (R99.95) Cleanse, hydrate and moisturise your hair and scalp with this gentle conditioning wash. A non-lathering shampoo alternative, it’s formulated to reduce excess oils and decongest the scalp while moisturizing hair. The results? Hair is left soft and refreshed with extra slip.  *NEW* Grow On The Go Miracle Repair Protein Treatment Mask (R39.95) Strengthen, hydrate and protect your hair with this nourishing treatment mask. Leave on for 30 minutes to reap the full benefits.  *NEW* Grow On The Go Curl Defining Cream (R119.95) Soften, moisturise and define your curls with this leave-in cream. It contains a trio of moisturising oils that bring life to your natural curl pattern. Curls are defined, with a natural shine even in high humidity climates. *NEW* Grow On The Go Leave-In Repair Cream (R119.95) Repair, strengthen and nourish dry hair with this moisturizing cream. It provides intense moisture to nourish dry and damaged hair whilst protecting and strengthening your hair. Ideal for wash & go’s,  finger coils, twist outs and rod sets. *NEW* Grow On The Go Waterless Cleanser (R99.95) Refresh, cleanse and soothe with this no-rinse, gentle cleanser. It contains natural cleansing agents to gently remove excess oil, dirt and eliminate odours. It’s recommended to refresh and revitalise curls, and is safe to use on all protective styles *NEW* Grow On The Go Growth Oil Treatment (R99.95) Stimulate healthy hair growth with this daily-use oil spray. It contains Basil Root extract to promote healthy hair growth with intense moisture and shine. Apply all over and gently massage into scalp, lengths and tips.  Mango & Marula The Mango & Marula range cares for your curl type. Together, mango and marula are powerful ingredients that assist with gentle detangling of hair; they promote softness; provide added nourishment and hydration and offer extreme moisture replenishment to dry and dull hair. New launches include: *NEW* Mango & Marula Whipped Hair Butter (R99.95) Nourish, hydrate and moisturise your hair with this luxurious blend of shea butter, coconut and castor oil. This trio deeply penetrates into the hair shaft to moisturise from within. *NEW* Mango & Marula Damage Repair Mask (R99.95) Repair, hydrate and strengthen hair with this intensive mask. It helps reverse damage and reduce breakage to leave hair feeling and looking stronger, softer, nourished and moisturised.  Shop these new products at your nearest Clicks store and online at www.clicks.co.za.  The Perfect Hair is available exclusively at Clicks.

October 24, 2022

GRADE 11s: INVEST IN YOUR ACADEMICS NOW, REAP THE REWARDS LATER

Grade 11 students preparing for their final exams of the year should aim to perform at their very best and go the extra mile where needed, as this year’s marks will not only help them start their final year off on a strong footing, but also make their road a little easier come 2023, an education expert says. “Students and parents often consider Matric to be ‘the big one’ in terms of their academic journey, but Grade 11 is actually a very important foundational year, and performing well can make a major logistical and performance impact down the line,” says Wonga Ntshinga, Senior Head of Programme: Faculty of ICT at The Independent Institute of Education, SA’s leading private higher education provider. “It is therefore important not to cruise along if you have been doing so, thinking that you’ll give it your all next year. Consider how seriously you will be taking your Matric final exams, and then try and replicate that effort right now in preparation for your Grade 11 finals,” he advises. Ntshinga says Grade 11 should be viewed as a foundation upon which Matric success is built, and is effectively a launch pad for one’s final year of school. So by positioning that launch pad as favourably as possible, a student will enter Grade 12 with much-needed momentum, insight and strategy. One of the most important reasons for excelling at the end of Grade 11, is because these results can be used to gain provisional acceptance into the student’s public university or private higher education institution and qualification of choice, says Ntshinga. “Nobody knows what the future holds, so if you can start your final year of school with excellent marks, you already have a winning ticket in your back pocket. It will take significant stress off of you to know that you are already able to start investigating your higher education options, and start applying without having to wait in the back of the queue until you are able to submit good marks achieved in Grade 12. “Furthermore, you will be able to get applications out of the way earlier, before they start flooding into institutions. This will free up valuable mental and emotional energy which you can apply with lazer focus to your Matric studies. And finally, if you start out poorly in Matric, you then also know you have something to fall back on while you work on improving your grades.” Leaving applications until later in the year will likely mean one’s options become more limited, as spaces would already have started filling up, Ntshinga notes. Viewing Grade 11 final exam preparations as part of the Matric year will also help students improve their Matric performance, he says. “Your Grade 11 performance, including your preparation, your composure during the writing of the exams, and your actual grades, provide an invaluable baseline from which you can strategise your final school year. Devising a strategy before you set foot in the halls of Grade 12 in January will help you work smarter on the way to peak end-of-year performance.” Factors that should be taken into consideration include: STUDY METHODS You should be entering Grade 12 knowing which study methods work for you and which do not. Your last year of school is not the time to be experimenting for the first time in this regard. Know what you are going to need to study and how you are going to do it right from the start to optimise the work and time you put in behind the books. TIME MANAGEMENT Your preparation now will give you insight into how much time you need to dedicate to revision and what kind of schedule works best for you. If you find you study best at night and do well with getting in some exercise before hitting the books, for instance, you can apply these insights to your Matric revision schedule without having to experiment next year. You will also be clear on issues that stand in the way of you doing your best. Are you a procrastinator? Do you feel an intense need to clean your room just when your next study slot comes up? Understanding how you stand in your own way can help you confront and address these barriers before you sit down for your final exams next year. STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES Knowing what each subject requires of you – which ones come naturally and which ones need more work – will help you devise the correct strategies for dealing with your work next year. Perhaps you realise you may need to get a tutor or other support in a particular subject from early in the year. Maybe you see that this one subject really just isn’t going to work out, no matter what. If that is the case, you will be able to change, but keeping in mind that only one subject may be changed in Grade 12, and that needs to happen within the first week of the year.

October 21, 2022

Pumping and Storing Breastmilk

Moms going back to work – OH No!!! Some helpful hints on breast pumping and storing of breastmilk. Whether you’re going back to work, want to have your partner help with feedings, or want to make sure you have breastmilk for your baby if you are away for a few hours, you will need to pump and store your breastmilk.  Pumping your breastmilk Before you pump, wash your hands with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that has at least 60% alcohol. Make sure the area where you are pumping and your pump parts and bottles are clean. You do not need to wash your breasts and nipples before pumping. If you need help to get your milk to start flowing without your baby there, you can get Milk Galore products that may assist increase the flow of breastmilk so that Mom can have enough milk to express.  The products come in form of rooibos tea or 100% fruit juice blend and can be purchased based on preference. Pumping: Ways to express your milk by hand or pump Hand expression How it works: You use your hand to squeeze and press on your breast to remove milk. What is involved: Requires practice, skill, and coordination. Gets easier with practice and can be as fast as pumping. Good if you are not often away from your baby or you need an option that is always with you. But all moms should learn how to hand express in case of emergency. Average Cost: Free Manual pump How it works: You use your hand and wrist to operate a hand-held device to pump the milk. What is involved: Requires practice, skill, and coordination. Useful for occasional pumping if you are away from your baby only once in a while. Average Cost: R200 to R874* Electric breast pump How it works: Runs on battery or plugs into an electrical outlet. What is involved: Can be easier for some moms. Can pump one breast at a time or both breasts at the same time. Double pumping (pumping both breasts at the same time) may collect more milk in less time, which is helpful if you are going back to work or school full-time. Need a place to clean and store the equipment between uses. Electric pumps require batteries or a place to plug in. Average Cost: R750 to over  R4 099 Storage of breastmilk After each pumping, you can: Keep milk at room temperature. Breastmilk is OK for up to 4 hours after pumping at room temperature (up to 25 °C). Refrigerate it. Breastmilk is OK in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Place milk in the freezer. If you’re not going to use refrigerated breastmilk within 4 days of pumping, freeze it right after pumping. Use cooler packs. You can put breastmilk in a cooler or insulated cooler pack with frozen ice packs for up to 24 hours after pumping. After 24 hours in a cooler the breastmilk should be refrigerated or frozen. When storing breastmilk, use breastmilk storage bags, which are made for freezing human milk. You can also use clean glass or hard BPA-free plastic bottles with tight-fitting lids. Do not use containers with the recycle number 7, which may contain BPA. Do not use disposable bottle liners or other plastic bags to store breastmilk. Storage: Tips for freezing milk Clearly label milk containers with the date the milk was expressed. Include your child’s name if you are giving the milk to a child care provider. Freeze in small amounts ( ¼ to ½ cups) for later feedings. Leave an 25.4ml or so from the milk to the top of the container, because it will get bigger when freezing. Wait to tighten bottle caps or lids until the milk is completely frozen. Store milk in the back of the freezer, not on the shelf of the freezer door, so that it doesn’t start to thaw out. Storage: Tips for thawing and warming up milk Thaw the oldest breastmilk first. Breastmilk does not need to be warmed. Some moms prefer to serve it at room temperature. Some moms serve it cold. Thaw the bottle or bag of frozen milk by putting it in the refrigerator overnight. If you decide to warm the breastmilk: Keep the container sealed while warming. Hold it under warm, not hot, running water, or set it in a container of water that is warm, not hot. Never put a bottle or bag of breastmilk in the microwave. Microwaving creates hot spots that could burn your baby and damage the milk. Test the temperature before feeding it to your baby by dropping some on your wrist. The milk should feel warm, not hot. Swirl the milk to mix the fat, which may have separated. Do not shake the milk. Use breastmilk within 24 hours of thawing it in the refrigerator. This means 24 hours from when the breastmilk is no longer frozen, not from when you take it out of the freezer. Once breastmilk is thawed to room temperature or warmed after being in the refrigerator or freezer, use it within 2 hours. If you have any leftover milk when the baby is finished feeding, be sure to throw it out within 2 hours. Do not refreeze breastmilk after it has been thawed.

October 21, 2022

How Does Foetal Alcohol Syndrome Affect Babies?

According to Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, South Africa has the highest prevalence of foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) globally. What is Foetal Alcohol Syndrome? FASD is a collection of physical, behavioural, and learning disorders that can arise in individuals exposed to alcohol during pregnancy. According to research, there is no safe amount of alcohol and no safe period to consume during pregnancy that will not result in FASD. Therefore, drinking any amount of alcohol during pregnancy poses a risk to the foetus. Globally, 1 in 13 births exposed to alcohol during pregnancy result in FASD, with a reported frequency of eight per 1 000 children and adolescents in the general population in 2017. The nationwide prevalence of FASD in South Africa ranges from 29 to 290 per 1 000 live births, the highest rate in the world. A recently published study assessed the frequency in the Western Cape Province to be between 196 and 276 children per 1 000, the highest prevalence among South African provinces. How Does Alcohol Consumption During Pregnancy Affect a Growing Baby? When alcohol enters the circulation of a pregnant woman, it is transported straight to the developing tissues of the foetus via the placental tissue that separates the mother’s and baby’s blood systems. That implies that when a pregnant woman consumes alcohol, so does the foetus. The alcohol is completely absorbed by the foetus and causes irreparable brain damage. This brain injury eventually leads to severe behavioural abnormalities. The adverse effects of alcohol can cause harm to the foetus at any time of pregnancy; they are not limited to a single stage. Learn More: The Importance of Early Monitoring During Pregnancy Signs and Symptoms of FASD in Babies Some children experience the symptoms of FASD to a far greater degree than others.  The signs and symptoms of foetal alcohol syndrome may include any combination of physical deformities, intellectual or cognitive impairments, and difficulties with daily functioning and coping.  Babies born with FASD may present with the following symptoms: Distinctive facial characteristics, including small eyes, an unusually thin upper lip, a short, upturned nose, and a smooth skin surface between the nose and the top lip Disfigurements of the joints, limbs, and fingers Low body weight Short height Sleep and sucking difficulties Small head size Vision or hearing problems Disorders of the heart, kidneys, and bones As a baby with FASD grows, they may exhibit the following symptoms: Poor coordination Hyperactive conduct Attentional difficulties  Poor memory Academic challenges (especially with math) Learning disabilities Language and speech delays Mental retardation or a low IQ Poor reasoning and judgement skills If you suspect that your baby has FASD, consult your doctor immediately. Learning difficulties and behavioural disorders may be alleviated by early diagnosis.  “Because early detection may lower the risk of long-term complications for children with foetal alcohol syndrome, inform your child’s doctor if you consumed alcohol during pregnancy. Do not wait until problems occur before getting assistance,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. Murray launched Affinity Health in 2011. His vision is to make South Africans healthier and enhance the quality of their lives. “If you have adopted or fostered a child, you may not know if the biological mother drank alcohol during pregnancy, and it may not occur to you that your child may have foetal alcohol syndrome. However, if your child has learning and behaviour issues, consult with their physician to determine the underlying cause.” Where to get help If you suspect your child may have FASD, speak to your family health care provider, who may refer your child to a specialist knowledgeable about FASDs, such as a developmental paediatrician, child psychologist, or clinical geneticist.  There are clinics in some places whose personnel are specially trained to diagnose and treat children with FASDs.  If you’re pregnant and battling sobriety, remember that recovery is in reach with the proper treatment and support.  If you or someone you know needs assistance with alcoholism, speak with your healthcare physician for a list of experts within your area that can assist, or contact the following organisations for help: Alcoholics Anonymous: 021 418 0908 Al-Anon: 021 595 4517 SANCA: 021 945 4080 FASFacts: 023 342 7000 Narcotics Anonymous SA: 083 900 6962 Learn More: The Dangers of Binge Drinking

October 21, 2022

How to evaluate the quality of a school’s Edtech offering

Parents need to ensure that they get a solid understanding of what is required from a high quality As more and more South African schools work towards improving their tech offering in response to the need to prepare students for the future of work, parents should ensure they get a solid understanding of what is required from a high quality, holistic EdTech programme, an academic education expert says. “While we may realise the importance of preparing children to navigate their future digital world, understanding what factors inform a programme which is based on academic excellence, and which incorporates the newest technologies while also focusing on digital citizenship, is crucial. Parents therefore need to view their school’s offering and promise of digital skills with a discerning eye,” says Nadia Dal Lago Nell, Academic Advisor: EdTech and Innovation (Schools Division) at ADvTECH, Africa’s largest private education provider. Nell says it is very important for schools to seek to provide an enhanced educational journey by investing in their students through the integration of technology into the curriculum, as opposed to tech being a standalone educational unit. “The result of technological integration into the curriculum is a more efficient and engaging educational experience. The need for digital literacy and the discerning use of technology by students is essential for them to continue to advance in their education and be equipped with relevant skills for their future workplace,” she says. Schools which can give students the educational edge will have several of the following on offer: programmable robots, interactive coding platforms, Minecraft, 3D printers, iPads, laser cutters and even indoor drones. “Ideally, schools should have dedicated EdTech spaces designed to suit their unique approach to technology and incorporate a variety of devices with a strong emphasis on collaboration.  A practical EdTech Framework should also be central to the technology foundation that students are guided through.” One question to ask your child’s prospective school, is whether they are aligned with ISTE standards, advises Nell. ISTE (The International Society for Technology in Education) standards have been formulated by the world’s foremost organisation in teaching technology in the classroom, and comprise the following principles: The Empowered Learner, Digital Citizen, Knowledge Constructor, Innovative Designer, Computational Thinker, Creative Communicator, and Global Collaborator. “An EdTech focused school will introduce the elements of the framework in their context as early as Grade 000 and follow through with this focus until the end of Grade 9, whereafter students will be well-versed in real-world tech-proficiencies. Some schools take this a step further and offer tech-based extracurricular activities, including for instance Robotics clubs.” Nell says EdTech lessons equip students with future-focused, transferable global skills that are necessary for success in all areas of life. “The central skills here are creativity and problem-solving which are taught through open-ended activities and emphasising the possibility of multiple solutions for any given problem. This provides students with a space for both collaboration and individual growth.” An additional element of the EdTech Framework is Digital Citizenship. “This engages students and shows them how to connect with one another, in an empathetic and safe way through digital tools, platforms and devices. Negative digital habits such as cyberbullying, irresponsible social media usage and unsafe use of the Internet are explained and strongly discouraged. “Students’ safety, growth and well-being when exploring the world of technology must be emphasised at all times. Fortunately, most of the requirements to be a good Digital Citizen can be taught in the classroom and reinforced at home. Digital Citizenship is intended to give students a clear understanding of the interconnection between tech-life and real-life citizenship skills with the aim of creating knowledgeable, responsible, and mindful online interaction. A sound and well thought-out EdTech programme will prepare a student to face the digital world of tomorrow.” To learn more from our teachers and educational experts, read one of our other blogs. To find out more about Abbotts College and the work we do, visit the rest of our website. To learn more about how Abbotts College can improve your child’s educational journey, read more about our non-traditional approach. Feel free to call or email one of our campus administrators.

October 20, 2022

EARLY YEARS CHECKLIST: CHOOSING YOUR CHILD’S FIRST SCHOOL

Choosing the right learning environment for one’s young child is essential as it has the potential to play a large role in the success of the child’s learning experience throughout the rest of their life, an education expert says. “A child’s first encounter with learning in a formal environment sets in motion the way in which they will view learning, how they foresee their role in society and the contributions they will make locally and globally later in life,” says Lynda Eagle, Academic Advisor: Early Years at ADvTECH, Africa’s largest private education provider. However the process of choosing the learning environment that will best suit a child’s personality and needs is complicated by the numerous options available to parents and guardians, who may feel overwhelmed and even confused about how to determine what is and isn’t right for their child’s journey ahead. To make this important call, Eagle says there are a number of factors to take into consideration, which provide a helpful guide for this important decision. “The first step is identifying the things that you value as a family, your hopes, and expectations and what you are wanting to get out of an education system for your child. While we know and celebrate the importance of academic achievements, we often forget that the child is both capable and competent and comes with unique qualities and talents,” she says. “It must also be taken into account that young children are often in charge of their own learning – meaning that as much as we try to mold and drive them, ultimately, they will follow their own interests and curiosities.  By meeting these unique needs, interests and talents and recognising that success comes in many forms, we have a better chance of helping the child reach their full potential and ensure that they in their own unique way contribute positively to their community in the future.” Eagle points out that it is generally accepted that the aim of a school is the development of academic excellence for the students in their care.  “However, academic excellence requires academic confidence if a student is going to reach their full potential. This requires that the school not only provide a safe and enriched learning environment, but that the student’s wellbeing is nurtured and protected from the very beginning. Where the child feels safe, they will be open to learning.” When looking for a school, parents need to be open to possibilities and feel confident that the learning environment will support learning in a holistic way.  “It is important to listen carefully to the messages being delivered by the school, align their views and expectations to that offered by the school, and more importantly, research and ask questions, listening to not only what the school is saying but also to what they are not saying.” Eagle advises parents and guardians to visit schools in person so that they can gain information firsthand, make comparisons, investigate, interrogate, and explore the integrity of the learning environment, the approaches to teaching and learning, the schools’ views on discipline and assessment, as well as how they view the child.  “The aesthetic qualities of a school are also important as they provide the initial feel and atmosphere. This will influence how comfortable the child will feel as well as what type of learning will take place in that environment. Does it feel inviting, and does it provide the student the opportunity to explore and discover, through intentional play opportunities and carefully designed learning spaces?” An ergonomically designed learning environment is not something that parents may be aware of or focus on – but ensuring that the furnishings are the right size and flexible, that the learning spaces are accessible and encourage and support play, that equipment is easily accessible, and that there is sufficient natural light and air flow, all influence the quality of the learning experience for the child, says Eagle. “Learning in the early years is often perceived as not being as important as the learning that takes place in the older years. However this is a misconception as the early years lay the foundation for all future learning,” says Eagle. “It is therefore non-negotiable that the teachers are fully qualified, that the ratio of competent and responsible adults to students is in place, that the integrity of the curriculum is not compromised but rather enhanced, that the focus is placed on future-focused teaching and learning techniques and strategies, and that all this takes place in a nurturing and responsive setting.” The learning experience is further enhanced using an inquiry-based approach, utilising global competencies to strengthen the learning experiences, focusing on relevant real-world concepts, building transferable knowledge and skills, and supporting student agency – these all go a long way in supporting a child on their personal learning journeys and should be considered when assessing a school. “When choosing a school that best fits your and your child’s needs, being aware of global trends, fully investigating the possibilities and options available, and holding schools accountable, all lead to a better-quality experience for one’s child in the early years, while building a foundation of a love of learning for future years.”

October 20, 2022

Bonitas Medical Fund: 2023 Product Launch round up

At a glance: 340 119 Principal members 709 881 Total beneficiaries  190 000 new members over the past 36 months Average age of beneficiary: 33.9 Average age of new members is 15 years younger than existing members R7.4 billion in reserves   36.5% solvency ratio AA Credit rating  Plans Bonitas offers a wide range of plans that are simple and easy to understand. There are 15 options in five categories: Savings, traditional, hospital, Edge (virtual) and income-based. Increases  A three-month price freeze will apply in 2023: From January to March contributions remain the same as 2022 The average increase, across all plans, is 5.9%. However, factoring in the three-month price freeze, the average increase drops to 4.8% Plan increases range from 0% to 9.4% BonStart has a 0% increase By applying very low contribution increases since December 2020, the Scheme has effectively passed R1.4 billion in savings back to members Nine plans are priced under R3 000 per main member’s monthly contribution The most popular plans, with newer members, include Primary, Primary Select, BonFit, BonEssential, BonEssential Select, BonStart and BonStart Plus Note: Contributions from April 2023   What’s new? Bonitas has introduced a mental health app – in partnership with Panda. It’s a free to download mental health and wellness mobile app that uses scientifically validated assessment tools and appropriate treatment to provide the right care at the right time. Panda will be available from October 2022 The Hospital-at-Home initiative has been successful and the offering is being extended to include: A programme for re-admissions Screening and disease prevention Alternative to stepdown facilities Kidney dialysis at home An improved programme for chronic kidney disease Restructured benefits are unlimited for PMB cancers across all plans. With a set Rand amount where non-PMB cancer cover is available. Once the Rand limit is exhausted, a 20% co-payment will apply  Cover for two doses of the vaccine Human Papillomavirus (HPV) for girls aged between 9 -14 years, on BonComprehensive, BonClassic, BonComplete, Standard and Standard Select Introduction of one booster vaccine for Pertussis or whooping cough, per beneficiary aged between 7 and 64 years on Standard, Standard Select, BonComplete, BonClassic and BonComprehensive. The savings component across the savings plans have been increased from between 5% to 9.4% and amended rules allow members to use their savings as they deem fit for the new year  The Benefit Booster – introduced in 2022 which unlocked R446million in additional benefits  – has been adjusted according to utilisation Footprint and networks Our footprint extends across all 9 provinces, with our membership concentrated in Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal, the Western Cape and the Eastern Cape. A GP network of over 4 400  An extensive Pharmacy network, with around 2 500 practices located in all nine provinces to dispense chronic, acute and over-the-counter medicine through Scriptpharm Dental network, through DENIS, provide access to around 3 000 practices across SA Optical network through PPN gives members access to over 2 300 practices 

October 19, 2022
Load More
Scroll to Top