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

TEACHING DEGREES 101: FROM CLASSROOM TO BOARDROOM, OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND

The education profession has come a long way in the last few decades with the growth of the private education sector, and whereas previously career options for graduates were limited, prospects now abound, an education expert says. “Because graduates are in demand both domestically and abroad, teaching credentials have grown in popularity. The teaching profession’s career development has also adopted a new perspective in which teachers can go from being school mentors to leadership positions, such as vice chancellor of the university,” says Dr Lindiwe Mokotjo, Head of Faculty: Education at The Independent Institute of Education, SA’s leading private education provider. “Where previously, teachers would mostly be headed to a classroom for the duration of their career, with only a handful being promoted to heads of department or deputy or  principal, they now have a wide range of options on top of teaching including, but not limited to, instructional design, tutoring, coaching, school management, educational consulting and the option of joining the corporate world of private education. Additionally, there is also great demand for qualified South African teachers abroad,” Mokotjo says. The way future teachers should be prepared has drastically changed as a result of the expansion of the teaching profession. The transformation includes understanding the material being taught, how it is being taught, the setting in which learners are being taught, and the fact that each learner is unique and capable of excelling when working with a qualified teacher, says Mokotjo. “Teachers play a vital role in shaping future generations as they sculpt our leaders of tomorrow. Schools of education therefore must be focused on preparing dynamic and skilled future teachers for a life long and successful career in education by equipping them for the 21st century classroom.” As a result, it is imperative that prospective education students ensure they vet their chosen institution and qualification carefully to  confirm that they aren’t stuck in the historic education mould, but that they are strongly focused on staying ahead of latest developments and trends in the field. Mokotjo says there are a number of different education qualifications to choose from, for instance: A Higher Certificate in Early Childhood Care and Education. This is an entry level/introductory qualification (at NQF Level 5) to the study of early childhood development (ECD) education from birth through to 4 years of age. A Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Foundation Phase Teaching (FPT) is an undergraduate professional qualification aimed at preparing students to teach learners from Grades R to 3. A Bachelor of Education (B Ed) in Intermediate Phase Teaching. This is an undergraduate professional qualification aimed at preparing students to teach children from Grades 4 to 7. A Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Senior Phase (SP) and Further Education and Training (FET) Teaching. It is important to ensure that the chosen qualification is structured in accordance with the Department of Higher Education and Training’s (DHET) Minimum Requirements for Teacher Education Qualifications (2015) or The Department of Higher Education and Training’s (DHET) Policy on Minimum Requirements for Programmes Leading to Qualifications in Higher Education for Early Childhood Development Educators (2017). Also of great importance, is to ensure that a curriculum incorporates Teaching theory and work-integrated learning components. “This critical component exposes students to diverse educational settings which ensures that they develop the practical skills essential for excellence in teaching. An institution offering Initial Teacher Education qualifications should have a network of schools in their area of operation to ensure access to differently resourced schools for student teaching opportunitiesm,” notes Mokotjo. Further, to access work-integrated learning in schools, students would need to present a valid Police Clearance Certificate and register with the SA Council for Educators  (SACE) in their final year.  Depending on the specific qualification, education students’ curricula will likely include Languages, Natural Science and Technology, Mathematics and Social Sciences, Psychology for Educators, Professional Ethics, Assessment and Measurement, Educational Management and Research. “A quality teaching degree from a reputable higher education institution opens the door to a rewarding, interesting, and varied career trajectory – provided, of course, that the educator is invested to lifelong learning and continuously improving their skills to ensure they can in turn prepare learners in their career for a prosperous future,” Mokotjo says. “There currently is a significant and growing need for a dynamic pipeline of professional teachers, who are able to bring enthusiasm and innovation not just to the classroom, but to the education profession as a whole. Whereas previously education was perhaps not always a career of first choice for many, the field has now evolved and truly come into its own, with new and exciting opportunities for ambitious young people.”

October 18, 2022

New Salome M-Pause to help manage hot flushes for 73% of women who don’t treat their Menopause

According to a recent State of Menopause* international study, a staggering 73% of women who have menopause are not treating their condition and symptoms. To address this alarming statistic, in mid-March 2022 3Sixty Biomedicine introduced a new product within their women’s reproductive health product range that will address symptoms of menopause such as hot flushes, profuse sweating and low mood associated to the condition. The new Salome M-Pause contains a combination of herbal extracts for the relief of menopausal symptoms which draws on the natural ingredients of Hypericum Perforatum (also known as St John’s Wort) and Cimicifuga Racemosa (black cohosh rhizome).  The US-based State of Menopause* study conducted in July 2021 on 1039 women aged between 40 to 65, found that nearly one-third (29%) of women never sought information about menopause before they experienced it; while nearly half (45%) didn’t know the difference between perimenopause and menopause. A further one-fifth (20%) of women experienced symptoms for a year or more before being assessed by a healthcare provider and 34% had never been formally assessed or diagnosed as menopausal.  “Sadly, even though almost all women experience menopause symptoms as part of their natural female journey, it is still something that is considered pretty taboo to talk openly about. This leads to women suffering from uncomfortable and often debilitating symptoms linked to menopause without asking for or receiving the necessary advice on treatment options to alleviate their suffering. We believe that every woman’s reproductive health journey matters. No matter what stage of womanhood you find yourself in, you should never be ashamed to speak openly about what you are experiencing in order to understand what is considered ‘normal’ and how you can minimise discomfort to improve your quality of life through getting the necessary treatment information, “says 3Sixty Biomedicine CEO, Boitumelo Sebambo. According to Sebambo, the newest addition to their popular over the counter Salome range that is based on herbal extracts – looks to complete the range’s ability to assist women throughout their reproductive health journey. The Salome range, produced by 3Sixty Biomedicine, is known for advocating for more awareness around common conditions that impact women’s reproductive health and encouraging lifestyle choices and products that will ultimately help ensure a better quality of life. Each product within the Salome range contains herbal extracts that have minimal to no side effects but maximum efficacy due to the research and development done on particular natural ingredients that have been clinically proven to assist in managing common women’s reproductive health conditions like menopause, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) heavy menstrual bleeding, menstrual pain and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).  According to Dr Shavit Sachs, Naturopathic Practitioner and secretary for the South African Naturopath Association, the herbal extracts used within the new Salome M-Pause have been used internationally to tackle a wide range of women’s health issues, including climacteric symptoms. “Cimicífuga racemosa contained in Salome M-Pause is known to improve some of the symptoms associated with menopause such as hot flushes, and profuse sweating as well as insomnia”, explains Sachs. Another herbal extract included in the product is Hypericum perforatum that has previously been used orally to manage light to moderate depression, anxiety, perimenopause, seasonal psychic disturbances, restlessness, and viral infections.  For more information about the Salome range and to be part of the World Menopause Month conversation this October, visit www.salome-range.co.za. The full Salome range of products are available to the public from pharmacies nationwide or online at Takealot.com and Salome’s website and can be reimbursed from medical aid savings. Facebook: Salome Range Twitter: @SalomeRange Instagram: SalomeRange References:  https://hellobonafide.com/pages/state-of-menopause Salome M-Pause patient information leaflet

October 18, 2022

Introducing HASK Blond Care: For all shades of blonde

Blonde hair is timeless. From icy platinum, to classic gold, to warm shades of honey, blonde never goes out of fashion. But blondes know – this coveted hair colour requires a bit of maintenance and TLC to keep it looking its best. That’s because blonde hair has unique needs. It is prone to colour fade, brassiness and dullness. It’s vulnerable to sun damage, pollution and the effects of hard water (tap water that contains colour-stripping minerals like copper and chlorine).  But it’s not all doom and gloom – while blonde hair may require a bit of maintenance, the reward is truly worth it. And that’s where HASK comes in.  HASK is proud to announce their latest hair care range, Blonde Care, designed to nourish and protect all shades of blonde hair. Made with elderberry oil and vitamin C, the products collectively enhance your shade of blonde, protect against brassiness and help restore moisture and shine. The range consists of four high-performance products: HASK Blonde Care Purple Toning Shampoo (190.00) Brightens and neutralizes brassy tones Cancel out unwanted warm, brassy tones with the HASK Blonde Care Purple Toning Shampoo. This highly pigmented, violet formula gently cleanses while neutralizing dull, yellow and brassy tones for a cooler shade of blonde. Enriched with a blend of elderberry oil and vitamin C to help enhance shine, restore moisture and keep dry, damaged hair smooth and healthy-looking. Free from: sulphates, parabens, silicones, phthalates, gluten, drying alcohol and artificial colours.Vegan Formula. Cruelty-free. HASK Blonde Care Purple Toning Conditioner (190.00) Brightens and neutralizes brassy tones Revitalize dry, damaged hair and cancel out unwanted warm, brassy tones with the HASK Blonde Care Purple Toning Conditioner. This highly pigmented, violet formula deeply moisturizes while neutralizing dull, yellow tones for a cooler shade of blonde. Blended with elderberry oil and vitamin C* to help boost lustre and restore hydration for smooth, ultra-soft strands. Free from: sulphates, parabens, silicones, phthalates, gluten, drying alcohol and artificial colours. Vegan Formula. Cruelty-free. HASK Blonde Care 5-In-1 Leave-In Spray (200.00) Detangles and protects blonde shades With elderberry oil and vitamin C, this violet-pigmented formula helps to maintain blonde shades, improve manageability and soften hair. 1 miracle product, 5 amazing benefits!1. Maintains blonde shades2. Restores moisture & detangles3. Provides thermal protection4. Prevents breakage & controls frizz5. Adds shine  Free of: silicones, sulphates, parabens, phthalates, gluten and drying alcohol. HASK Blonde Care Deep Conditioner (79.99) Brightens and neutralizes brassy tones in blonde hair This reparative treatment provides the perfect balance of violet toning and intense hydration to counteract brassy and yellow hues, while replenishing lost moisture to dry, blonde locks. Infused with elderberry oil and vitamin C to help strengthen weak strands (minimizing future damage), leaving you with cool, brightened, ultra-soft hair. Free from: sulphates, parabens, silicones, phthalates, gluten, drying alcohol and artificial colours.Vegan Formula. Cruelty-free. The new HASK Blonde Care collection is available from Clicks.

October 17, 2022

PUTTING YOUR KIDS ON A PATH TO GOOD NUTRITION

For many parents, nothing is as stressful as getting your kids to eat all the food on their plate, especially when it comes to veggies. Eating a variety of healthy foods is essential for your children’s wellbeing. Here are some tips on how to get your kids to eat better.

October 17, 2022

Getting Ready for Summer

Ooh, summer has arrived and plans for sizzling summer getaways are well underway – a trip to the coast, perhaps a few nights in the bush.  No matter where you decide to go on holiday this year or even if you plan to stay at home, you just know that you are going to be spending so much time in the hot South African sun!   The most exciting part of preparing for the summer is shopping, but shopping for your baby or toddler comes with more consideration than just opting for a cute little ‘cozzie’ because it looks sweet!  Baby and I Melrose decided to make shopping so much easier for you this year and list below some essentials to consider : Must Haves for Baby & Toddler Lightweight baby clothing, preferably 100% natural fabrics Cotton or Bamboo blankets Sun hat or bonnet – no matter baby’s age Sunglasses – definitely sunglasses! Swimsuit – choose with long sleeves and full-length pants.  Little accidents can happen, so be prepared and buy more than one set Shade for car windows Lightweight breathable cover for car seat and pram Breathable baby carrier Mosquito nets for baby’s crib and camp-cot Sunscreen – choose an SPF of 30 or higher which ensures protection against both harmful UVA and UVB rays Stroller with canopy Nappy rash cream & baby lotion – nappy rash is more likely to happen in summer and your little one’s skin is likely to become very dry due to the hot sun.  Prevention is always better than cure! Staying hydrated is vital to everyone’s health, but even more so for your baby and toddler and especially during hot summer days.  Toddlers are running around and playing, and moments spent in the swimming pool are exposing your baby or toddler to direct sunlight as well. This means that dehydration is even more prevalent.  Look out for signs like a flushed face, warm skin and rapid breathing which will tell you immediately that your little one is becoming dehydrated. Keep bottles of water with you at all times.  Choose an insulated water bottle designed specially to keep water cold, or use a hydro flask.   As well as ensuring that your little one remains hydrated, diet also plays an important part in supporting their needs during the hot summer months.   Citrus Fruits – so easily available at this time, and extremely refreshing. Also contain vitamin C which boosts your baby or toddler’s immune system.   Watermelon – also readily available during summer and a refreshingly cool addition which can be cut up or served as a drink for hot summer days.  With such a high water content, watermelon helps keep baby hydrated as well Peaches – the beta-carotene contained in peaches is converted into Vitamin A when eaten and also assists in boosting the immune system.  And of course, peaches are so yummy! Mangos – known as the King of Fruits!  Mangos are delicious and very easily digested.  They are rich in vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates that is good for the eyesight.  They help fight microbial infections and assist in brain development.  Serve in bite size pieces or as an oh so yummy smoothie! The hot weather can make your little one’s skin very dry.  Keep baby lotion with you even when you’re out and about and apply when you feel necessary, and of course, after bath is essential to lock in moisture and restore softness and glow to the skin.  Choose lotions with ingredients such as aloe vera, almond oil, nutgrass oil and mustard oil. Swimming Lessons are a Must Baby can start swimming lessons at around 5 or 6 months old.  With the alarming amount of babies, toddlers and young children, drowning in South Africa, opting for swimming lessons for your little one just makes sense.  Once enrolled what do you take with you : Baby Swimsuit –  Matching Mommy and Me swimming costumes add a fabulous element of fun (keep one spare swimsuit with you) Large absorbent towel and one spare Swimming nappies Normal everyday nappies Baby bum cream Moisturising lotion for your little one’s skin Change of clothing Snacks, bottle or sippy cup Bath toys but check with swim school if necessary Just for fun, don’t forget your phone so that you can take awesome photos and videos to share with the family! No doubt the swim school will give you a list of what to buy, but it is always nice to have an idea of what you will need so that you can be prepared. Although your swim school may have their own float vests or jackets, it is highly recommended that you purchase a float vest or jacket for your little one, to be used not only for swimming lessons but for those carefree days spent in the water at home, or on holiday.  Float vests and jackets are worn over swimsuits to help achieve a natural position in the water.  Float vests or jackets are recommended for use for children from age 1 to 6.  They are a buoyancy aid to assist with your little one’s buoyancy as well as increase their safety level when in the water.  Some float vests on the market today, have an added advantage of UPF (sun-protected fabrics) adding extra protection for your little one’s delicate skin. However, we do recommend that you check labels before purchasing if this is a must for you.   Baby and I Melrose have a beautiful range of baby swimwear, including matching Mommy and Me swimsuits which can add an element of fun to any swimming lesson or outdoor swimming activity.  Protect your children’s eyes from the harsh South African sun with funky sunglasses, also available from Baby and I Melrose, in a variety of colours and designs. As a local Premier Baby Boutique, Baby and I Melrose offer an exceptional range of essential baby products, clothing and accessories, making it easy for you to purchase most of your summer essentials for

October 14, 2022

Confessions of an Amateur Juggler

For years I’ve had a running joke that if I were to ever write a book, it would be called “Confessions of an Amateur Juggler”.   It’s a ridiculous joke, because I’m not actually a circus juggler, but I am a working mom so I do juggle a lot.  However, the key word in my imaginary book title is not “juggler”, it’s “amateur”.  Professional jugglers don’t drop balls, but amateur ones sometimes do! If you’re a busy, working mom like me, the idea of juggling probably resonates deeply with you.   Sorry, I haven’t introduced myself.  My name is Kirsty and I’m the Founder and Programme Director for Wriggle and Rhyme, a music and movement programme for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers. At the heart of my “amateur juggler” journey is my heart.  A heart that is 100% devoted to my family.  Even though I’m running a business, I still think of myself as a stay-at-home mom. Here’s my story …  When my now eighteen-year-old daughter was born, I left a demanding career in the corporate rat race to be more available to my growing family.  I took on part-time work to top up our household income. But, when my second-born son was 18 months old, my part-time contract work finished.  I desperately wanted the flexibility of working from home, but it was so difficult to find a job that fitted around my children and earned me a reasonable income for the hours worked. My entrepreneurial spirit kicked in!  I decided to research business opportunities, using my musical qualifications and marketing experience. In 2008, Wriggle and Rhyme was “born”.   Yes, October is our birthday month – this year we’re celebrating 14 years of music! Wriggle and Rhyme was a natural synergy of my marketing and musical training. Little did I know then of the exciting and fulfilling journey that would follow! Starting with one class from my home in Fish Hoek, the business has grown in both size and profile, with numerous branches across Cape Town.  In 2011, we branched into Pre-schools and now have a thriving Pre-schools program running too. The Wriggle and Rhyme programme has been written and produced locally by me.  And like me, it’s proudly South African!  I’m also passionate about quality and value.  So much love and energy has gone into creating a completely unique, fun and memorable programme suitable for children from 6 months to 6 years old.  It has been very well received by the thousands of children who have attended classes over the years. I now have three beautiful children, but Wriggle and Rhyme has become my fourth child.  I’ve gone through all the stages of motherhood with the business – from exciting conception to a crying newborn, to a demanding toddler, to a feisty tween, to a maturing teenage.  The business is very much part of our family!  Both my sons attended classes with me when they were little – they still speak about them!  It has been a real joy to have my children engage with my work because it’s something they can so easily relate to.   As the business has grown, so has my capacity.  I now work full-time hours, but I work around my family, which means that I’m still at home full-time. It’s a challenging juggle at times, but the benefits have been phenomenal – being my own boss, contributing to the household income and being at home with my kids! In 2013, I realized that there were lots of other women like me out there.  Women who wanted to work from home, be available for their families, but women who also need to earn well for their time and efforts.  So, I created the “Wriggle and Rhyme Product Package” which is available to License, as a work-from-home Business Opportunity.  This has allowed other women to take this proven business model and receive the ongoing training and support they need, to turn it into their personal success story! If this resonates with you, come and join our team of amateur jugglers and discover the joy of adopting Wriggle and Rhyme into your own family! For more info about the W&R business opportunity, have a look at www.wriggleandrhyme.co.za/join-the-team  Find us on Facebook and Instagram @wrigglerhyme #wrigglerhyme

October 14, 2022

LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF POLIO

Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, says that while the polio vaccine has drastically curtailed the spread of this deadly disease, many who contracted polio at a young age may acquire post-polio syndrome later in life. What Is Polio? Polio (also known as poliomyelitis) is a dangerous and highly contagious disease caused by infection with one of three poliovirus types. The virus spreadsthrough person-to-person contact. It lives in an infected person’s throat and intestines. What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Polio? From mild flu-like symptoms to life-threatening paralysis, the symptoms of polio range in severity. According to the World Health Organization, polio causes lifelong paralysis of the limbs, legs, or respiratory muscles in less than 1% of cases and is fatal in between 5 and 10% of cases. How Polio Propagates A person may acquire symptoms between three and 21 days after exposure to the virus and will be most contagious seven to ten days before and after the onset of symptoms. People are contagious as long as the virus is excreted in their faeces, which can last up to six weeks. The virus typically lingers in the throat for one to two weeks. What Is Post-Polio Syndrome? Post-polio syndrome is a collection of potentially incapacitating signs and symptoms that manifest decades after the initial polio infection. These signs and symptoms typically manifest 30 to 40 years after polio infection.4 Symptoms Of Post-Polio Syndrome  Common post-polio syndrome signs and symptoms include: Muscle and joint pain and weakness that worsens over time Fatigue Loss of muscular tissue (atrophy) Problems breathing or swallowing Sleep apnea Risk Factors The following factors can raise your risk of acquiring post-polio syndrome: Initial polio infection severity: The severity of the initial infection correlates with the likelihood of developing post-polio syndrome. Age at the commencement of the first illness: If you contracted polio as an adolescent or adult, your likelihood of getting post-polio syndrome is higher than those who contracted the disease in early childhood. Recovery: Ironically, the quicker your recovery from acute polio, the greater the likelihood that you may develop post-polio syndrome. This may be because a greater rate of recovery increases the strain on motor neurons. Extreme physical exertion: You may raise your risk for post-polio syndrome if you frequently exercise to the point of extreme lethargy. Complications Of Post-Polio Syndrome Post-polio syndrome is infrequently fatal, but significant muscle weakness can result in complications: Falls: Leg muscle weakness makes it more likely that you will lose your balance and fall. You may then shatter a bone, such as your hip, resulting in additional difficulties. Fatigue: Post-polio syndrome patients frequently experience fatigue. The tiredness may be incapacitating even after minimal effort. It may also cause focus and memory difficulties. Pain: Musculoskeletal disorders and muscular weakness can contribute to persistent discomfort. Malnutrition: People who have experienced bulbar polio, which affects the nerves that lead to the muscles involved in chewing and swallowing, frequently struggle with eating and may develop malnutrition. Chronic respiratory failure: Weak diaphragm and chest muscles make it more difficult to take deep breaths and cough, which can lead to fluid and mucus accumulation in the lungs. Osteoporosis: Loss of bone density and osteoporosis are frequently associated with prolonged inactivity and immobility in both men and women. If you have post-polio syndrome, discuss bone density screening with your doctor. Sleep problems: Post-polio syndrome is often accompanied by sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome. Untreated, these sleep disturbances may exacerbate insomnia and exhaustion. Immunisation Against Polio Immunisation is the most effective means of preventing polio. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urges parents to immunise all infants and young children. Children should receive the polio vaccine at two, four, and six months of age.  At age four, all children should receive a booster dose of diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, and polio vaccines (4-in-1 vaccine) Catch-up immunisation using combination vaccinations is offered for children up to and including nine years of age. Immunisation Against Polio For Adults It is suggested that all adults ensure they have received the polio vaccine. The polio immunisation for adults consists of three injections administered four weeks apart.  “In South Africa, the last case of polio was reported in 1989. However, as long as there are occurrences of polio anywhere in the world, this dangerous virus can be easily imported and spread within a polio-free country. It’s crucial that parents ensure their children are up to date with all the necessary vaccinations and have themselves been vaccinated. Consult with your health care provider If you have not had at least three doses of polio vaccination, or if your child needs catch-up doses,” concludes Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.

October 13, 2022

NON-TRADITIONAL SCHOOLING: MYTHS & MISPERCEPTIONS

According to CollegeRaptor (USA), non-traditional (alternative) schools “were first introduced as a way to help students who could not fit into the regular school system because of various behavioural problems”. Colleges in South Africa in the 1980s had a reputation for being senior high schools for those students that no traditional mainstream school would accept. Those who attended College were often stereotyped as troublemakers, who were probably expelled from their traditional schools by those who attended traditional schools (as well as their parents). Looking back, this may have been true in a few cases, but surely this was not true for all students. Were many not merely trying to find their place because they could not conform to the rigid, strict, at times non-sensical rules found in traditional schools in South Africa at the time? Not much can be done to change perceptions regarding non-traditional schools in the 80s, but sadly some people remain uninformed to this day, which means too many students lose out on the opportunity to attend a school that is a better fit for them than a regular mainstream school. Abbotts College was founded in 1971, and for over four decades, it was a non-traditional school that catered for Senior High School (Grades 10-12) students only. Teaching at traditional high schools for many years, I recall several Grade 9 students eagerly awaiting the opportunity to attend Abbotts College at the start of their FET school journey each year. I experienced firsthand that the students who left to attend the non-traditional school, Abbotts College, were not those with behavioural problems but rather those who think outside the box, are creative and open-minded and, yes, those who don’t love uniform and hair rules. Fortunately, students no longer need to wait for Grade 10 to attend a school where they feel at home. Abbotts Colleges have been welcoming Grade 8 and 9 students onto their campuses for the past six years. Abbotts Colleges are safe spaces where students get to “just be” and become fully self-actualised and empowered in a supportive environment. So what is a non-traditional school in the mainstream schooling space? Currently, there are a variety of schools which fall within the non-traditional (alternative) schooling space. These vary from small schools offering homeschooling curricula to online schools to Abbotts Colleges which offer the CAPS curriculum for their full-time students and whose students will be writing the Independent Examination Boards (IEB) National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations as of 2023. Choosing a non-traditional school When choosing a non-traditional school, parents need to ensure that the school is accredited and that the curriculum offered is accepted by South African universities and private tertiary institutions as well as universities outside of our borders. Several “fly-by-night” schools are not operating in an educationally sound way and are not accredited by Umalusi or the necessary accreditation boards Abbotts Colleges fall within a unique brand of mainstream non-traditional (alternative) schools as they are non-traditional for several reasons: Students do not wear uniforms, and they do not need to comply with restrictive hair or jewelry rules, as these do not influence a student’s academic performance. Students receive not 3 or 4 but 7 reports a year. The more regular formal reporting allows for more continuous academic tracking by parents. This is besides intervention communication outside of formal reporting time. Students attend homework classes Mondays to Thursdays, where they do their homework and can approach their subject teachers for assistance during this time. Teachers are also available until 20:00 to assist students who are struggling to grasp the work. The school does not offer co-curricular activities, choosing to focus on academic support, improvement and achievement. Students participate in club sport and join private cultural groups. Non-traditional schools offer an alternative to traditional schooling and allow for self-expression and a celebration of students’ individuality. Mignonne Gerli, Principal: Abbotts College Pretoria

October 13, 2022

‘A DOSE OF CARE’ CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED

Panado®, the nation’s trusted pain reliever, is proud to announce the launch of the ‘A Dose Of Care’ campaign in collaboration with popular lifestyle show Afternoon Express. The campaign celebrates true community heroes across South Africa who serve others by providing a dose of care to those who really need it – so they can pass on a dose of care to their loved ones. As love is universal, no one can be left out! Think back over the past year. No doubt, you’ll be able to conjure up countless examples of selflessness and heroism within your community that have inspired you. If these examples tell us anything, it’s that perhaps it’s time we re-evaluate what we mean by ‘hero’. In the world that we live in, heroes don’t wear capes. Heroes are the everyday people who go out of their way to support those around them. From the early morning lift clubbers and even earlier morning rock-em-back-to-sleepers to the mother and daughter team who make sandwiches for hungry tummies. From the retired teacher who collects school shoes for disadvantaged learners to the Gogo who gives exceptional care to parentless children. We are touched by these stories of hope, kindness, compassion and community. Caring for the ones we love is truly a labour of love – it’s an opportunity for us to put love into action. Panado®, a flagship brand of Adcock Ingram, understands that one can’t give to others if your cup is running empty.  Caring isn’t always hugs and smiles, giggles and laughter. Caring entails sacrifices and commitment. At times, it can feel overwhelming, scary, and thankless. South Africa is full of carers facing adversity, challenged with little support or financial resources. Yet, many of these exceptional carers still care above and beyond. Panado® sees you – and would like to help make your care a little easier. Speaking about ‘A Dose Of Care’ campaign, Gail Pretorius, Panado® Marketing Manager, says the campaign aims to help carers across Mzansi, who are inspired by the spirit of ubuntu and dedicated to incredible acts of human kindness and generosity.  The campaign offers participants the chance to win ‘A Dose Of Care’ from Panado®, and the winners are then afforded the opportunity to “pay it forward” by donating an additional ‘A Dose Of Care’ to others giving back to their communities. “Panado® has been around for decades. You’ve seen it in your cupboards growing up, and so have our grandparents. It is a generational brand that delivers a dose of care through every dose administered to all, from tiny tots to grandparents. We also acknowledge and recognise that caring isn’t always as easy as it sounds. Sometimes taking care of ourselves, as well as friends and community members, is difficult,” says Pretorius. “That is why we at Panado® want to share a dose of care with those who really need it and enable them to share a dose of care with their loved ones. It’s fantastic to have Afternoon Express behind this kindness initiative, hopefully encouraging an onward domino effect of doing good deeds.” Panado® and Afternoon Express will share the work of do-gooders lifting others and helping alleviate the poverty crisis gripping parts of the country through ‘A Dose Of Care’ journey.  Individuals and charities who have benefitted from ‘A Dose Of Care’ campaign thus far include the Kasi Hero Foundation and Thušanang Community Development NPO and there are many more to follow. The Kasi Hero Foundation was started in 2020 during Level 5 Covid-19 lockdown. What began as a small group of young volunteers running a weekly soup kitchen for the needy in Pimville, Soweto, has evolved into a recognised public benefits organisation providing daily meals, school uniforms, wheelchairs, and food parcels to vulnerable families. The Kasi Hero Foundation was gifted ‘A Dose Of Care’ and assistance with meals for the soup kitchen. When asked to nominate someone of their choice to receive a dose of care, they elected fellow hero, Mpho Mmasechaba, who runs a weekly soup kitchen, feeding hundreds of children daily.  Panado® gifted another dose of care to Beatrice Leng, chairperson of Thušanang Community Development NPO in the Western Cape. Affectionately nicknamed The mayor of Tafelsig, Beatrice is known for her courage, genuine love and heart for the community, helping women and children who are survivors of abuse. Beatrice has spread care and hope across Tafelsig and surrounding areas for over 35 years.  Beatrice in turn nominated Carolyn Meyer as her nominee of choice. Whether it’s an opportunity to feed a hungry tummy or create a safe haven for children, Carolyn is the definition of a dose of care. As South Africans, we are going through so much. It’s time we focus on the positive.  There are so many people out there who do so much without asking for anything in return – and that’s exactly what ‘A Dose Of Care’ campaign is all about. To these heroes and heroes everywhere, Panado® says, “thank you for the work you do”! Can you think of someone in your community who deserves more recognition for all they do for others? Panado® would like to encourage South Africans to go out and nominate other South Africans within their families and communities who really show care for others and please share their stories. Tell us who they are, what they do for the community, and why they should receive a dose of care.  Remember to use the hashtags #ADoseOfCare and #PanadoSA in your answer, and your chosen nominee could stand a chance to receive ‘A Dose Of Care’ from Panado®. To enter, or for more information, follow Afternoon Express Facebook page and Afternoon Express Twitter page. The campaign competition runs until 8 November 2022. T’s and C’s can be found on https://afternoonexpress.co.za/. References : 1.      IRI Data for MAT August 2021. 2.      Panado® Tablets approved professional information, June 2005. 3.      Panado® Capsules approved package insert, August 1984. 4.      Panado® Effervescent (Tablet) approved professional information, July 1992. 5.      Panado® Paediatric Strawberry Approved package insert March 2002. 6.      Panado® Paediatric Syrup Alcohol and Sugar-Free & Panado® Paediatric Syrup package insert. April 2010. 7.      Panado® Infant Drops (Drops) approved professional information, August 1990. 8.      Wilcock A, Twycross R. Therapeutic

October 12, 2022

THE PILATES DIFFERENCE STUDIO AND INSTAGRAM PHENOMENON

Introducing @thepilatesdifference. An authentic, home grown South African Instagram phenomenon that grew to 120K followers in eight months flat!  With all the noise out there on social media, especially Instagram, how does a fitness brand manage to stand out? By being themselves and embracing an honest, real and fun approach to movement and fitness.  This proudly South African brand has managed to grow their Instagram following to almost 120K followers through a simple and consistent message; just move your body and do it to feel good. The Pilates Difference is a brand that is making waves on social media, and they hail from the beautiful little town of Plettenberg Bay. Here they have their physical studio space which is buzzing all year round with both locals and visitors to this famous beach destination town.  It is not the trendy location of their studio and popularity of their classes that has gotten everyone’s attention, but rather their hilarious, quirky and honest approach to fitness and movement in general. When asked what the ethos behind the brand is, Owner Colleen Tomlinson explains that people put too much pressure on themselves to always have a perfect exercise ritual or schedule. When in fact it is really just about moving your body – in any way, place or form.  Whether it is trail running, yoga, walking or dancing – the most important element or result is that it makes you feel good. Exercise or physical fitness is not and should never be about punishment, and only about endorphins.  Having a scroll through their Instagram feed (@thepilatesdifference) this entertaining duo used reels to grow their account exponentially in 8 months through funny and inspiring clips that they hope encourage people to get up and move their bodies, and sometimes laugh at themselves. They specialise in Barre and Pilates and while they may look sweet and fun – they will give you some great workout tips, plank challenges, and sets that will certainly have you sweating…and smiling. The Pilates Suspension Method – Brand new and just arrived on South African shores The new kid on the block when it comes to Pilates apparatus is the suspension trainer. While traditional Pilates equipment such as Reformers, Cadillacs and Towers are wonderful to work on and train with – they cost a small fortune to purchase. During lockdown the access to this type of Pilates became limited and the Pilates Suspension Method – developed in The United States by Rebecca Beckler – became so popular it is now a worldwide phenomenon. So what is all the fuss about? As a Stott®Pilates Instructor trainer, Rebecca developed the method that takes many exercises from traditional and contemporary Pilates equipment and matwork and created over 500 different exercises that can be performed using a suspension trainer, that are both safe and effective for all levels and abilities. A piece of equipment you can hang up over the door at home and affordable enough to purchase for gyms and studios. Colleen Tomlinson from The Pilates Difference, the instructor trainer in South Africa and Africa for the PSM, says that the difference she has seen in the strength, posture and athletic ability of her clients who regularly attend the classes (both online and in studio) is notable. The Pilates Difference is the service provider in South Africa and Africa that is rolling out these Instructor Training Courses in South Africa. Both from their beautiful studio in Plettenberg Bay as well as in major centres like Cape Town and Johannesburg. They are open not only to Pilates Instructors (although it is Pilates focused) but to all mindful movement practitioners and fitness professionals. Check their website, www.thepilatesdifference.co.za for more information on upcoming courses, retreats and workshops. ABOUT THE PILATES DIFFERENCE STUDIO IN PLETTENBERG BAY The Pilates Difference Studio is a Pilates and Barre Studio in Plettenberg Bay. We are a Stott Pilates® trained studio with additional schools of training contributing to our offerings; including internationally acclaimed bootybarre®. We offer Group classes on the Mat and Barre as well as various equipment sessions to smaller groups, duos and privates. We have Cadillacs, Reformers, Ladder Barrels, Stability Chairs and Suspension Trainers.   The Studio was opened in January 2017 by Colleen Tomlinson. Her vision for The Pilates Studio was to provide a Pilates and Barre Studio that celebrates the true essence of Pilates and all that the discipline stands for. To teach people Pilates in order to empower them to become stronger, healthier, more mobile, more connected and more balanced. To make people aware that Pilates is not just an exercise routine, but rather a way of life and a commitment to ones well-being. At The Pilates Difference our focus is on the client and their experience with us. We put a lot of energy into creating a space that is warm and filled with positive energy, which leaves all our clients feeling energised, invigorated and often sweaty! Our bright, spacious studio is positioned in the centre of town in the elegant Yellowoods Centre. We are conveniently located next to a variety of eateries, coffee shops and stores. Situated alongside a quieter street which allows for more parking, we have a view of the endless Keurbooms beach and Bay. Open to both locals and plett visitors all year round. Can’t get to Plett, do one of their online workouts. There is something for everyone. For daily inspiration and workout challenges, follow @thepilatesdifference on Instagram.  

October 12, 2022

1 Hi Baby nappy = 1 dry night and a happy, rested mom

As I sit here pondering on this topic, 34 weeks pregnant with my second child, I can identify with the reality of sleepless nights and the desire to only want what is best for my children. Despite the many factors that can keep a mother lying awake at night, a wet nappy and unhappy baby does not need to feature on this list. Some helpful tips to promote better sleep: Get into the habit of changing baby’s nappy just before the last feed at bedtime and don’t change it during the night unless it is very wet or dirty. As Hi Baby PremiumAAA Grade nappies are super absorbent, there is no need to wake your baby at night every time baby wets the nappy just a little. It is essential to ensure that you have the correct size nappy to fit your baby’s weight and build, as the perfect fit will prevent positional leaks when baby is lying down. If you have a newborn baby who wakes for feeds during the night – change baby’s nappy first and then feed or change it mid-feed. If you change baby’s nappy after the feed, you may wake baby completely. If your toddler is a heavy wetter and routinely has something to drink right before bed, perhaps a routine change is in order? Try to ensure that your toddler’s last drink of the night happens at least an hour before bedtime. When changing baby’s nappy be sure to avoid bright lighting, noise and making eye contact as this may cause baby to wake completely instead of easily drifting back to dreamland. Making Hi Baby Premium Nappies and Pull Ups a part of your baby’s bedtime routine is the difference between waking up at night to a crying, cold, wet baby versus a good night’s rest, with 12 hours of dryness. With their super absorbent core and perfect fit, you can rest assured that baby will sleep warm and dry in these cold winter months. 1 Hi Baby nappy = 1 dry night and a happy, rested mom. Until next time, Sr Jessica Bredenkamp (Registered Midwife (BCur) & Mom)

October 11, 2022

SAFETY ON THE MOVE

You’re about to enter the wild and wonderful world of parenting. How exciting! With your due date fast approaching, chances are you’ve already been sifting through parenting blogs and getting tips from friends who have embarked on their parenting journey. We have to cover all our bases regarding keeping our kids safe. That means protecting our little ones from the very start. For many, that’s the ride in the car going home from the hospital. Of course, we invest in all the big stuff, like car seats and strollers. But transporting our tiny humans from point A to point B is less complicated when we have some smaller essentials on hand. Think of baby car safety products as additional tools for your new parent toolbox. From carrying a first aid kit, or babyproofing items for a weekend getaway, to installing specially designed car rear-view mirrors to see the baby better in the backseat, to making sure you have the iconic Baby on Board sign, there are many convenient items to help you with travel safety. Healthcare On-the-Go Kit You tackle setting up the nursery before your newest family member has arrived, down to the nasal aspirator and emery boards to protect the baby’s health and delicate skin. It’s a good idea to carry a second set of wellness-related products in any car you travel with your little one. Then you don’t have to stress whether you have what you need in the diaper bag or if you forgot something on the changing table. The Healthcare On-the-Go Kit by Safety 1st contains the essential health items you’ll want to have on hand for your baby while on the go. This kit gives you a stylish and easy way to keep baby’s healthcare items organized with the zippered case to keep everything safely stored inside. It also quickly reverses from a standard pouch to a pencil-style point. With a 3-in-1 thermometer, nasal aspirator, and more, you’ll be ready wherever the road takes you. Car Mirror Keeping your little co-pilot safe in the car means being buckled up in a car seat and rear-facing until they’re old enough and big enough to face forward in their car seat. But being unable to see them well while they’re in the backseat and your upfront can be anxiety-producing. Keep an eye on your little one while you drive with a Safety 1st Car View Mirror. This mirror attaches easily to your front windshield to give you a better view of your forward-facing child in the back seat. Got a rear-facing seat? The mirror can also be attached to your rear-view mirror to ensure your child is in full view.  Baby on Board sign Created in 1984 and proudly hanging in car windows ever since is our Baby on Board™ sign. It’s what Safety 1st is all about because when it comes to parenting, few feelings are as terrifying as the first time a parent puts a baby in the car for the ride home from the hospital. That’s why we invented the iconic “Baby on Board” sign. It gave rise to millions of copycats and crazy spoofs. But more importantly, that little sign with the big message led us to where we are today: a company obsessed with children’s safety and well-being in cars, homes, and everywhere in between.

October 11, 2022

5 TIPS TO AVOID SCAMMERS WHEN TAKING OUT FUNERAL COVER

As we navigate through these challenging economic times, making sure our loved ones are taken care of financially becomes more and more important. This includes anything from ensuring they have a simple savings account, to the big guns like life insurance and funeral cover. Sadly, when it comes to funeral cover, scammers are operating everywhere, and many people are falling victim. For the most part, these scams offer supposedly cheaper and more convenient funeral cover, and they target people who are emotionally exposed at the thought of a loved one passing on.  Funerals can often set your family back as much as R60 000, so it’s vitally important that you have suitable insurance in place to assist you with the costs. There are a few ways to make sure you’re getting a good deal. The following tips will help with assessing suitable funeral cover, enabling you to know what you’re paying for and what you’ll get should the worst happen:   1. Deal with the right person and a reputable provider Funeral cover has always been seen as a soft target for fraudsters and they usually pretend to be employed by a known insurance or financial services provider. In fact, people often claim to be scammed by close associates like relatives or neighbours! If you are unsure, the person or service provider should supply you with the details of the company that they are representing and their registration with the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA). If the alleged insurer does not want to give you that information, see that as a red flag and just walk away.  2. Request a policy schedule Once you have taken out a funeral policy it is customary for you to see the policy schedule as confirmation of cover. The provider is obliged to provide you with this information. A reputable insurer must be transparent and provide all the relevant documents that will give you the assurance to know what is included in your policy and what to do when it’s time to claim. Never accept anything you don’t understand or agree with as providers are compelled by legislation to ensure that their products are easy for clients to understand. 3. Funeral cover need not break the bank Your service provider can tailor your cover to suit your budget and personal requirements as one policy size does not fit all, so be sure to discuss all options and plans and don’t feel pressured to take on the first option offered. 4. Do your own research When it comes to legal and financial documents, it’s sometimes easier to avoid the jargon and reading and to just take someone’s word for it. In fact, when it comes to insurance of any kind it’s absolutely critical that you read the fine print yourself and understand clearly what the terms are. Look specifically at waiting periods, exclusions, and the definitions of extended family member relationships that you might have covered.  5. Life cover vs Funeral cover It is a common misconception that life and funeral cover are one and the same thing. Life cover aims to assist those you leave behind with financial stability and security. Because it’s underwritten, it often offers more cover. Funeral cover aims to simply provide your loved ones with the means to deal with the immediate challenges of your passing and normally pays within a few days of the claim being submitted. As with everything in our lives, you get what you pay for, so be sure to do your homework and choose a funeral cover that will give peace of mind and that you understand. “Life is so unpredictable and having to deal with the loss of a family member is a painful time and the concerns about the costs of a funeral, and beyond, can add to the weight of an already difficult moment. WithSanlam Indie Funeral Cover, you can make sure that you and up to 20 of your family are taken care of and spared from the financial vulnerability that comes with burial arrangements. If you’re willing to answer a few more questions, Sanlam Indie’s Life Cover might offer you more cover, while still including a quick pay out portion for immediate funeral-related expenses.” – Edwin Theron, CEO at Sanlam Indie www.sanlamindie.co.za

October 11, 2022

Introducing Marc Anthony’s new hair care range: Instantly Thick + Biotin

Do you have thin or flat hair? Do you struggle to get your hair to hold a style or volume? Say hello to the latest offering from hair care favourite Marc Anthony: Instantly Thick + Biotin.  Plump up thin or lifeless hair with this lightweight thickening formula specifically designed for thin and flat hair. For this new range, Marc Anthony has infused Biotin, Thickening Polymers and Phyto keratin to make a perfect multi-benefit collection offering strength, thickening and conditioning properties. The range consists of: Marc Anthony Instantly Thick + Biotin Plump & Lift Shampoo (R164.95) Big body begins with your wash. This lightweight formula transforms thin, flat, fine strands into stronger, thicker looking hair. A blend of Biotin, Thickening Polymers and Phyto keratin support strength, fullness and moisture as you wash. While Aloe, Sunflower Oil and Vitamin E offer conditioning and shine. Together, you get the benefit of extra fullness without a waxy, tacky feel. Your fingers will glide through that thicker, fuller mane with the ultimate ease. BENEFITS Thicker, fuller feeling hair Lightweight formula Strength Moisture Shine HOW TO USE Apply to wet hair, lather and rinse. For best results, use with Instantly Thick +Biotin Conditioner. Marc Anthony Instantly Thick + Biotin Plump & Lift Conditioner (R164.95) This ultra-light conditioner for thin, flat, fine strands, transforms them into stronger, thicker looking hair. A blend of Biotin, Thickening Polymers and Phytokeratin supports strength, fullness and moisture as you condition. While Aloe, Sunflower Oil and Vitamin E offer extra conditioning and shine.Together you get the benefits of extra fullness without a waxy, tacky feel. Your fingers will glide through that thicker fuller mane with the ultimate ease. BENEFITS Thicker, fuller feeling hair Lightweight formula Strength Conditioning Moisture Shine HOW TO USE Apply to clean, wet hair. Rinse. For extra fullness, follow with Instantly Thick +Biotin Styling Cream. Marc Anthony Instantly Thick + Biotin Plump & Lift Styling Cream (R189.95) Thicker, fuller style with strength and shine. This lightweight thickening styler for thin, flat hair infuses Biotin, Polymers and Phytokeratin making this the perfect multi-benefit cream, providing strength, thickening and conditioning for hair with multiple needs. This styler adds body, fullness and hold while strengthening and reinforcing fine, weak strands. It brings out modern movement in layers, with a finish that is lightweight natural. Use on damp hair for a full-body, root-lifting blowout. BENEFITS Thicker, fuller feeling hair Lightweight formula Gentle hold with natural movement Strength Moisture Shine HOW TO USE Apply to clean damp hair sparingly from roots to ends. For best results apply heat with a blow dryer. For extra volume flip your head over when you dry the roots. Marc Anthony Instantly Thick + Biotin products are available at Clicks, Dischem and Takealot.

October 10, 2022

Mental health post pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic and the resultant lockdowns affected people across the world – mentally, emotionally and physically. These included feelings of isolation, work stress, frustration at rules and regulations, fear for close family and friends and a loss of control over your life.  So, it is not surprising that we have seen an increase in mental health related issues. 1 in 6 South Africans suffer from anxiety, depression or substance use disorder. Over the last two years the prevalence of anxiety and depression disorders has increased by 36.4% and 38.7% respectively. 970 million people worldwide have a mental health or substance abuse disorder. A study by the Global Happiness Council (GHC) shows that mental illness is the main ailment among people of working age.  Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund says, ‘This has a massive effect on employers as they try to cope with keeping their businesses going, preventing job losses and maintaining a happy and motivated workforce. The economic uncertainty, political instability and poor socio-economic conditions in South Africa have also added to the burden of mental health issues in South Africa.’  To make matters worse, according to South Africa’s National Mental Health Policy Framework, ‘up to 80% of South Africans who need mental health support are unable to easily access it’.  In addition to a comprehensive mental health programme, Bonitas is the first medical aid to offer Panda to its members. It’s a free to download mental health and wellness mobile app that provides scientifically validated assessment tools to enable users to objectively measure their mental wellbeing. A gamified tracking tool allows you to document and monitor the progress you’re making on your personal mental health journey. This includes: Engaging in interactive, audio-only sessions with peers and mental health experts in the ‘Bamboo Forest’ Learning new skills through assignments and videos to help you live a more fulfilled life Tracking your mental health progress to measure how you are feeling Getting text-based chat support from an accredited wellness counsellor Booking 1:1 virtual consultations with accredited and registered counsellors, social workers, psychologists and other mental health professionals ‘The level of support depends on the degree to which you need help,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa.  ‘This ranges from level one, where there is an easy access point to community, information and support, through to level 5 where Panda will notify you to contact emergency services. We know how tough it can be to go through difficult times all by yourself, but with Panda, you will be able to find the support and resources that you need. In a nutshell: The right care at the right time for a healthy mind, using your phone.’   What is mental illness? Mental illness is defined as ‘any behavioural or mental pattern that causes significant distress or impairs normal functioning’. It can occur as a once off, be persistent or recur. The common denominator being the debilitating nature of the condition. It is a medical condition A mental illness affects the way a person experiences and behaves in the world around them. It is a recognised medical condition in the same way as chronic diseases, such as diabetes and high blood pressure and can affect anyone, regardless of race, religion, income or age. It is not a sign of weakness or madness and is nothing to be ashamed of. The good news is, it’s a condition that that can be managed and treated successfully.  Anxiety disorders and depression are the most common mental health problems but others include eating disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), bipolar mood disorder as well as psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia and personality disorders. Substance abuse, such as drugs and alcohol, is also classified under mental illness. Battling the stigma The Mental Health Society acknowledges, ‘The social stigma attached to mental ill-health and discrimination exacerbates patients’ condition. It often prevents people from seeking treatment. And, if they do, makes it harder to recover.’ Dr Mkhatshwa says, ‘Fortunately, increasingly well-known and influential people who are suffering from or have overcome mental illness, are being more open about it. This will go a long way to debunk myths, negativity, discrimination and judgement’.  Recognising the signs These can vary but, in general, these include:  Being frequently sad, depressed and gloomy for long periods and feeling overwhelmed by life’s problems Major changes in eating habits, resulting in weight loss or gain Struggling to concentrate and make decisions Loss of energy and lack of motivation Constant stress and anxiety over work, finances, life, friends and family Emotionally distant Frequently tearful Having difficulty sleeping or sleeping more than usual Loss of interest in activities Easily irritated and more aggressive than usual Having thoughts of death or suicide Drug or alcohol abuse may also be a sign of underlying mental illness Help is at hand There are specialised mental health programmes in place through most medical aids and most mental illnesses can be effectively treated by health professionals and community-based services or NGOs. This may include access to medication, therapy and counselling.   The Mental Health Programme (MHP) from Bonitas, which forms part its Managed Care initiatives, is aimed at improving quality of life and empowering people with mental health issues to manage their condition. It is education driven and offers support for loved ones too. ‘The introduction of Panda will dovetail neatly with our MHP,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘Mental illness cannot be wished away,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘We can’t expect someone to ‘pull themselves together’, they simply can’t. But with the right support and help, symptoms will be relieved and the recovery rate is encouraging with patients getting back to being happier, more productive members of society.’

October 7, 2022

No magic pill for money migraines but a budget may ease the pain

The dual pressures of rising interest rates and increasing inflation are adding to already stressed consumers’ financial headaches and while there is no miracle cure, something as simple as a household budget may ease the pain.  Even in wealthy economies such as the United States, studies suggest that less than half of households have a budget. While there is no recent verifiable research for South African indicators such as financial stress, the levels of concern about money suggest that the figure here is much lower. “Reasons people don’t budget may be that they’re in denial and are afraid to look too closely at the state of their finances. They might think it’s too complicated or difficult to draw up a budget, or because for some people budgeting, much like dieting, has negative connotations” says Yaasin Nordien, COO of DirectAxis Loans. “Rather than thinking about a household budget as a difficult, daunting, boring or constraining exercise, consider it as a tool to enhance your future financial security.” Yaasin says that setting a budget and sticking to it puts you in control of your money, rather than the other way around, and doing so will help to relieve financial stress. The other benefits of budgeting include: It helps you prioritise and focus on setting and reaching future financial goals rather than just living from salary to salary It discourages you from spending money you don’t have It encourages you to track income and expenses, to identify and stop unnecessary spending and save money It allows you to manage debt repayments, avoid bad debts and maintain or improve your credit score (for more information on the benefits of a good credit score visit:www.directaxis.co.za/make-a-plan/why-your-credit-score-is-important-and-what-to-do-about-it )  It helps you spot potential problems and stop them from escalating Drawing up a budget will take a bit of time but isn’t difficult. You can use a spreadsheet, one of the many online budgeting tools such as www.directaxis.co.za/make-a-plan/set-financial-goals-and-manage-your-finances-like-a-pro or a simple piece of paper, depending on which you prefer. On the left side list all your income. As well as what you get paid, also include any earnings from rentals or side hustles. On the right, use your bank statement to list all your expenses. This will immediately show where you might be able to cut or reduce spending. It will also enable you to put parameters in place, such as determining monthly spending limits and how much you may be able to save each month. If you are able to save some money towards achieving your financial goals, include it in your budget as a fixed expense. The same way a guard dog warns you about danger before you see it, keeping a close eye on your budget will show you where there might be risks. If things start to look a little tight you can do something about it before it becomes a problem. Yaasin says although your first budget probably won’t be perfect, revisit it to see how you are progressing and refine it as you go. “It’s amazing how this simple exercise, which probably won’t take more than an hour, can be so empowering, insightful and help you reduce some of the stress of worrying whether your money’s going to last for the month.”

October 6, 2022

WHAT FEVER MAY SIGNAL

According to Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, while fevers themselves generally aren’t dangerous they often signal infection or illness that could require treatment. Fever is a natural response to infection. A fever is usually a sign that your body is working extra hard to fight infection. Body temperatures are different for everyone. But they lie within the range of 36°C to 37°C. A temperature of 38°C or higher is considered a fever. Often, a fever does not signal an alarm. But it is best to contact your nearest healthcare provider if the following happens: If the fever does not subside within a few days If the fever does not respond to over-the-counter medication What are the Indications of a Fever? The principal signs of a fever are: Temperatures above 38°C Chills, shivering and trembling Headaches and body aches Fatigue (tiredness) Irritability Loss of appetite Headache Sweating Reddened complexion or warm skin Learn More: When to Worry About Your Baby’s Temperature Why Does a Fever Occur? Fever has many causes and can be a sign of any disease. Among the most prevalent are: Colds or influenza Earaches Bronchitis Oral thrush Urogenital tract infections Mononucleosis Sunburn COVID-19 Heat exhaustion Vaccines and immunisations Hormone disorders (hyperthyroidism) Autoimmune conditions Teething (in babies) “Do not assume something is wrong if you have a higher-than-normal body temperature. Look for other signs of sickness. Body temperature fluctuates throughout the day,” says Murray Hewlett, Affinity Health CEO.  Body temperature can change in response to any of the following human processes: Stress Excitement Heavy clothing Food Specific drugs Menstruation Exercise  Additionally, children have a somewhat higher average body temperature than adults. How to Measure Body Temperature The best ways to measure body temperature is to insert a thermometer: Orally Rectally Axillary (under the arm) Or by placing a monitoring tool into the ear Can You Treat a Fever at Home? If your temperature is modest (less than 38°C), you do not need medical care. Ensure that you consume a lot of fluids (but no alcohol) and get a lot of rest. There are several effective strategies to bring down a fever to a higher degree. Medications like aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen are the most prevalent treatment option. If a youngster under 17 has a fever, DO NOT provide aspirin. Aspirin may be fatal for children. A lukewarm bath may also assist in lowering the temperature. When does a fever warrant concern? Immediately contact a physician if you experience any of the following: A high temperature accompanied by neck stiffness, disorientation, or irritation A fever that persists above 39.5°C for over two hours following home treatment A fever that lasts for more than two days A rash Photophobia (irritated by light) Dehydration  Seizures If your child is running a high fever and is under two years old, it is best to get them checked by a doctor. Remember! Not all fever medicine is safe for babies. Medication can temporarily bring a temperature down. But it will not treat the underlying cause.

October 6, 2022

Top tips to keep kids safer online

While there may be a good dose of fearmongering around child online safety, the risks are still real, and parents need to understand them so that they are empowered to take action to protect their families.  Cyberbullying, exposure to harmful and inappropriate content, and grooming by online predators are the stuff of parents’ nightmares.  However, on the plus side, there’s also a robust cybersecurity ecosystem offering significant tools that help parents to protect their families. The digital realm is rich with opportunities for our kids to explore, learn and connect.  As parents, we don’t want to stand in the way of that.  But, it’s also a Wild West when it comes to cybercrime.  The 2022 Parent Guide for child online safety reports that 68% of child internet activity is not monitored by parents and 85% of parents are putting devices into their kids’ hands just to keep them busy.  “One of the biggest hurdles to keeping kids safe online is a parent’s lack of knowledge of the cyber spaces where their kids are active.  Many parents sanction their kids having social media accounts without much clue about how those platforms actually work,” explains cybersecurity expert and GoldPhish CEO, Dan Thornton. Some parents aren’t aware that the games their kids play have online chatrooms where they are engaging freely with strangers.  There are parents who are unaware that recreational drugs are sold online to minors, or who think it’s impossible that their kid may engage with pornographic or suicide ideation content. This raises the risks that their child could become a victim, or even a perpetrator of cybercrime.  It also flies in the face of data – Ofcom, the UK communications regulator, reported in 2019 that 79% of internet users aged 12 to 15 years experienced at least one potentially harmful interaction online over a 12 month period. “As parents we instruct, guide and model behaviours for our children so that they can succeed and make a positive contribution to the world.  We teach them all sorts of things to keep themselves safe and ensure they don’t cause harm to others.  Today, this vital parental role has to include the fast and ever-changing digital environment.  Our kids are not just citizens in the physical world, they are digital citizens too.  This demands that parents take a keen interest in ensuring that they are cyber savvy, and that they make good use of the latest cybersecurity tools that help to keep families safer,” notes Thornton.  There are three steps parents need to take to becoming cyber savvy: Be informed – when it comes to your child’s safety, ignorance is not bliss.  Know exactly where they are engaging online through games, websites and apps on their phones.  Understand those platforms, how they operate and the risks to minors.  Make sure your kids are only playing age-appropriate games and don’t let them sign up for social media accounts when they are under-age. Talk to your kids about online safety – open, trusted communications are your best route to keeping your child safe online.  Just as you are in the physical world, be their first-line of protection in online spaces.  Educate them about the risks and the warning signs.  Let them know that they can and should come to you with their concerns.  Educate them about privacy and the importance of not publishing or sharing their personal data, which includes your credit card details!  Keep abreast of evolving cyber safety risks and talk through these as a family. Deploy the latest cybersecurity tools – a parental control app is just one layer of security, and it can’t possibly mitigate all the online risks.  The cybersecurity ecosystem for families is constantly evolving and latest tools include AI-driven apps that can alert parents to potentially risky child engagements with people and content online across multiple devices.  This empowers the parent to step in at the moment of risk and ignite conversations and take actions that can keep their child safer online.

October 5, 2022

How to protect your breast milk stash from load shedding

Loadshedding has a massive impact on our daily lives and as a pumping mom with a breast milk stash this can be very scary. When the power is off there is always a risk that your breast milk might thaw and may even need to be thrown away. This would be such a waste of effort and time. So My Breastpump has some tips and tricks for you to help you to keep your breast milk stash safe during loadshedding.  Luckily most of the load shedding is just a 2-hour intervals however as we go down the levels they do become longer. The good news is that your freezer should not defrost in the 2-to-4-hour time period however you may need to add freezer packs to your fridge to help keep it cold during this time. The Power outages are the real risk to your freezer stash of breast milk. Power outages are unpredictable and can lost for extended periods of time.  Here are some tips and information to help you with the power outages: 1. Keep your freezer doors closed.  The more times that you open your freezer doors while there is no power the quicker your freezer will warm up and defrost it contents. Only open your freezer if you absolutely need to. Plan ahead and remove all the milk that you need the evening before so that it can defrost in the fridge during the day. While you are there remove any meat or foods that you will be needing the next day, so that it can also defrost.  2. Know how long your freezer will stay frozen The contents of your freezer will also help to keep the freezer cold. In general a fuller freezer will take longer to defrost then an empty one. The guidelines are that a full freezer can take up to 48 hours to defrost while a half full freezer can take 24 hour to defrost.  3. Keeping your freezer colder for longer You can use Icepack or frozen salt water to help you keep your freezer cold. As the are not food they can stay in the freezer all the times and there is no risk of them spoiling when warm. Pack as many ice packs / freezer elements as you can in the freezer. You can also use frozen milk or bottles filled with salt water as the filler of your freezer. The salt water freezes colder than normal water which is beneficial for keeping the freezer colder for longer.  Place the extra freezer element or frozen water in the same tray as your breast milk. Add as many of them as possible to keep the focus of the cold near your breast milk stash. You can also use the freezer element/ frozen water in your fridge to help keep it cold when there is an extending power outage. You also need to keep your defrosting/ defrosted milk at a cold temperature of around 4⁰C.  4. Check your milk Keep a close eye on your breast milk. If you have had an extended power outage, make check to see if it is still frozen. This way you will prevent any nasty surprises when you defrost the milk at a later stage to realize that it has gone off and you are not able to use it.  You can refreeze breast milk if it still has ice crystals in it even if there are some watery sections.  The ideal temperature to store your breast milk at according to the CDC are as follows: 25°C or cooler for 4 hours Fridge 4°C (not in the door as this is warmer than the back of the fridge) for 4 days Freezer -18° for 6 months  5. Store your breast milk in breast milk containers It is important to store your milk in strong and sterile breast milk containers so that they do not leak or increase the chance that your milk will spoil during the storage time.  Use containers that are designed to hold liquid breast milk. Containers that are safe to store breast milk in are: Glass, plastic (food grade, presterilized and are BPA free) and hard plastic cups. All three suggested items have advantages and disadvantages. Glass containers are great because they are reusable, but they can break if dropped or over filled before freezing. Food grade plastic can either be breast milk storage bottles like our Hygieni breast milk bottles, they are reusable and you can pump directly into the bottle which is a great time saver as you do not need to cleaning extra bottles. The disadvantage is that they can take up a lot of space in your freezer. Breast milk storage bags are ideal for storing large volumes of breast milk in a freezer as they can be frozen flat to save space in the freezer. My Breast pump has two different options of storage bags. The first option is the Ameda Store’nPour which you are able to pump directly in your breast milk bag. The second is the My Breastpump breast milk storage bag which can hold 250ml and is medically sterilized before packing. Both can be found on our website’s storage page .Storage containers that are not recommend to store breast milk in are: plastic that contains BPD, disposable bottle liners, steel containers and food ziplock bags (they have not been sterilized for breast milk storage and can split easily).  Please share with us your power outage and loadshedding tips on how to keep your breast milk frozen. 

October 5, 2022

The Evolution of the Eyebrow Brings Empowered Trends & Entrepreneurship for Today’s Modern Women

Sitting in first position on your face, eyebrows have defined our beauty and prowess throughout the centuries. The most powerful and alluring personalities in history feature beautiful brows from their positions of influence. Think of the iconic Cleopatra, sultry Elizabeth Taylor, the intensely creative Frida Kahlo, to today’s A-listers Queen Bey, Amandla Stenberg and Emilia Clarke. Trailblazers in both fashion and personal style, eyebrows have witnessed an evolution of being plucked, thinned, contoured, sculpted, fluffed, threaded, shaped and arched, making the hair-defined eyebrow line the benchmark in creative self-expression. In the 21st Century, the art of the eyebrow remains an evolving modern aesthetic in service of communication and feminine influence.  Why has eyebrow beautification continued to hold our attention over the eons? They are the facial blueprint of who we are and what we feel. They hold the power to change our face, bringing out our best features and correcting and balancing the imperfections, be it small eyes, a long face or eyes set too far apart. Eyebrow design adds definition and presents a confident look to the world, and no one knows this to better effect than Unaiza Suliman of UniQbrow.  Top Beautified Brow Trends in 2022 & Beyond In the business of beauty, award-winning entrepreneur Unaiza brings quick and affordable brow and lash design into the brow revolution mix with a global standard of excellence. Underscoring her expert understanding of the world of aesthetics and somatology, UniQBrow and lash growth serum products enhance her brow empire and, as a master trainer, Unaiza uses her skills to create engaging online courses that can be accessed from anywhere around the world to upskill professionals in the beauty industry.  Heralding in a new high-browed fashion season, she gives us an inside look at the current trends ahead: Au Naturel: Put down the tweezers, says Unaiza, simple and minimal brow work is the way to go. “I love a clean, beautiful brow that is simultaneously unstructured and natural. I’ve never been a fan of the overly defined brow and we’re now emerging into an era where priorities are being redefined too. While grooming will always be a priority, this season we’re embracing a more sophisticated yet natural look for your brows and this is an unquestionable winner.” Art of the Brow: Brow lamination provides a defined look that must be applied by a certified professional, to deliver a perfectly placed brushed up fuller look that lasts for months.  Providing an  illusion of beautiful fullness while maintaining an “unstructured,” look, this trend mimics a brow “lift,” without the pigment of microblading. As the world of brows keeps evolving, Unaiza has added a UniQBrow eyebrow jam, a slight evolution of the brow gel, to create the laminated effect so complimentary for fuller, thicker looking brows that last throughout the day.  Bush Baby: Think fluffy brows with no pencilling and minimal maintenance. All you need is a clean, damp spoolie brush run very lightly through your soap; followed by brushing, up, out and down in the direction of your brow growth. Bring on your Brow Game: Feather brows are in, defined using a spoolie to create definition and to flick the brows out for a lightweight airy look. Barely There:  Bleached eyebrows make a major statement right now especially on the catwalks and provide a light and versatile look in the fashion scene. Bro Fix: Eyebrow transplants are here to help increase brow fullness. When yours have all been plucked off, hair taken from the back of the head helps to replace a distinctive brow line. Classic Cool: In a return to the classic Audrey Hepburn look, the straight brow is back featuring a minimal arch and a straighter brow tail. Slay them with Play: Coloured brows are fun and add a feel of play to the day. Simply add a pop of colour with your makeup and match the glamour of your outfit. Skinny 90’s: The sleek eyebrow is seeing a comeback featuring a low arch and slimline look for formal sophistication. How will you define your brow look this season and what do your brows say about you?  Uplevel Yourself in the Business of Beauty Unaiza is not only passionate about brow beauty, but she is also intent on empowering other women as she continues building and expanding her UniQBrow business brand through training and inspiring women with no prior beauty or business experience through her distinctive franchise opportunity.  “I want to see other women grow beyond what they thought possible. My franchise opportunity lowers the barrier to entry for women, allowing them to either establish their own business, or expand their service offering, with minimal capital outlay, unlike any other franchising opportunity in the beauty industry.” Designed for select women who might never have laid a finger on a brow, Uniq Brow is serious about cultivating exceptional craftsmanship with a focus on speciality, allowing new Brow Queens a franchising opportunity in the beauty industry. “It’s about giving someone a chance…a chance to start and then a chance to build and grow from strength to strength. This is what I want to see,” says Unaiza, “an empowered army of women standing strong in who they are.” Become a Brow Queen today or get busy defining your brows to the latest trends with Uniq Brow Jams that are vegan friendly, cruelty-free and available for order from the Uniq Brows online store https://uniqbrows.com/shop/ amongst a host of other world-class products for your browsing pleasure.  www.uniqbrows.com [email protected] Tel +27 84 786 0671 Facebook: @UniqBrowsbyunaiza Instagram: @uniqbrowsbyunaiza

October 4, 2022

Do I Need to Take a Multivitamin?

Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, explores the benefits of multivitamins. Multivitamins and minerals are the most consumed dietary supplements worldwide. Many believe that multivitamins can do the following: Improve health Compensate for bad dietary habits Lower the chance of chronic disease But is this belief fact or fiction? What are Multivitamins? Multivitamins are dietary supplements containing many vitamins and minerals. That is often besides other components. There is no universal definition of a multivitamin. But the nutrient makeup of these supplements differs by brand and product. Multivitamins come in many forms, including tablets, capsules, chewable gummies, powders, and liquids. Thirteen vitamins and about fifteen minerals are necessary for good health. Many multivitamins contain variable concentrations of these vitamins and minerals. Additionally, they might contain herbs, amino acids, and fatty acids. The Food and Drug Administration does not see dietary supplements as prescription pharmaceuticals. So, some multivitamins may contain higher or lower levels of certain nutrients. Multivitamins Supplements and Cardiovascular Disease Heart disease is one of the worldwide causes of death. Some feel that taking multivitamins can help avoid heart disease. But data does not appear to support this claim. Multivitamin Supplements and Cancer Inconsistent evidence exists on multivitamin use and cancer risk. Some studies find no correlation between multivitamin consumption and cancer risk. But others do see a correlation. Do Multivitamins Offer any Other Health Benefits? Some studies have discovered that multivitamins may aid in memory and mood enhancement. Moreover, antioxidant vitamins and minerals may help reduce blindness. Are There Health Risks Associated With Taking Multivitamins? Some people may tolerate large quantities of some vitamins and minerals. But excessive amounts can be dangerous. Solubility can affect the dosage of a multivitamin as follows: Water-soluble: Your body eliminates excess quantities of these vitamins through urine. Fat-soluble: Since your body cannot release them, vitamins may build in your liver. Good to Know Pregnant women must be especially mindful of their vitamin A consumption. Excessive intake may cause congenital abnormalities. Certain minerals, such as iron, in excessive amounts, can cause: Stomach distress Constipation Vomiting Fainting Inhibited absorption of zinc Men should be especially aware of their iron intake. They tend to store more of it than women and those with hemochromatosis. Should You Take Multivitamins? In reality, evidence that multivitamins are healthy is inconclusive. In certain instances, they may even be harmful. “Multivitamins contain many nutrients, most of which you may not need. Fresh, whole foods are better overall,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “But if you need a specific nutrient, it may be preferable to supplement with that nutrient. For your benefit, it is best to consult your healthcare provider,” concludes Hewlett. Learn More: The Importance of Good Nutrition in Early Childhood

October 4, 2022

The Fermented Food Frenzy

40 trillion: the number of bacteria that make our gut a home. Every day, we live in harmony with these beneficial bacteria, collectively known as gut microbiota, which help to digest the food we eat, produce vitamins like vitamin K and the B-vitamins, protect against invading harmful bacteria, and help support our immune system.  With such an important role to play, how do we keep our gut microbes happy and healthy? Simple – fermented foods, the rising stars on our grocery shelves. Fermented foods and beverages are made using different combinations of bacteria, such as lactic acid bacteria, and other microbes like moulds and yeasts. In fact, fermentation is thought to be the oldest and most economical method of producing and preserving food, with over  3 500 fermented foods making up one-third of our human diet.   A Focus on Fermentation During fermentation, unique and beneficial changes take place to a food or beverage. The process of fermentation increases the shelf-life to improve preservation, vitally important in food security and food safety. Registered dietitian, Monique Piderit says: “Fermented foods also add to the nutritional value of our diet. This is because these foods can contribute towards making some vitamins and other healthy bioactive compounds more available to the body. We also know that fermented foods can help remove and reduce toxins (like mycotoxins) and anti-nutrients (like tannins and phytic acid) from our diets, as well as help with the digestion of parts of the food that sometimes cause trouble in our guts (like how the lactose in fermented dairy is pre-digested for easier absorption).” Go for the Gut Likely the most well-known benefit of eating fermented foods are the great gut-enhancing benefits. Poor diets, stress, medication like antibiotics and anaesthesia, as well as other factors can substantially effect the beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiota. Made with these healthy microbes, fermented foods are a source of live and active cultures. Regularly enjoying fermented foods in our diets can then help to restore the balance of gut bacteria because of the live cultures that exist naturally in these foods. And what’s more, studies have shown that if we regularly eat fermented foods and beverages, the live cultures can potentially increase the microbes in our gut by 10 000 times.  Now while fancy fermented foods like kefir and kombucha are all the rage, there are two everyday foods that top this list: yoghurt and maas. Fermented dairy is so proudly part of our South African heritage and a supplementary staple food, with great cultural importance. These dairy-based South African favourites are convenient, easy-to-access, storage friendly. and cost-effective examples of fermented foods. Choosing these foods regularly also supports the recommendation of our food-based dietary guidelines to “Have milk, maas and yoghurt every day.”  Here’s how to get with the fermented food frenzy, the South African way:  Yoghurt, whether plain or flavoured, full cream or fat free, will support a healthy gut and also supplies naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, proteins, and carbohydrates essential for good health. Yoghurt makes for an easy lunchbox filler for children and adults alike. Not a breakfast fan? Blend with fresh fruit for an on-the-go smoothie or serve as a healthy dessert dusted with cinnamon. Maas can be enjoyed as an anytime drink, either on its own or with some added flavour like honey or cocoa powder for a twist.  Keep it simple and pour over pap for a quick start to your morning or serve with fruit as you would with yoghurt. Stir into soups or sauces for a creamy  taste or use as a recovery drink after exercise.   Go to www.rediscoverdairy.co.za for more recipes and ideas on how to include yoghurt and maas as part of a healthy and balanced diet. 

October 4, 2022

Bonitas 2022 contributions continued for 2023!

 Bonitas Medical Fund, one of the leading medical schemes in South Africa, announced its 2023 product line up today. Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas says, ‘Our average increases for the year would have been 5.9% – well below the current inflation rate of 7.6%. The good news is that we’ve put a price freeze on contributions for the first quarter of 2023, to offer our members some respite. This effectively means an increase of 4.8% over the 12 months. We have also shared exactly what members can expect to pay from 1 April 2023, so that they can make informed decisions. Bonitas celebrated its 40th anniversary this year and has evolved and expanded its capabilities over the past four decades in response to the needs of a growing membership base.  ‘It’s always a delicate balancing act between keeping increases as low as possible while maintaining the stability of the Scheme,’ says Callakoppen. ‘The guidelines, set out by the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) in Circular 44 of 2022, requested medical schemes to keep contribution increases for 2023 below CPI. However, over the past decade medical scheme contribution increases have outpaced inflation by around 4%. We are delighted to have kept these well below CPI itself. In fact, by applying very low contribution increases since December 2020, the Scheme has effectively passed R1.4 billion in savings back to members.  And, with the challenges we’ve seen recently in the healthcare industry, we know that promoting sustainability is key. So, we’re happy to boast excellent financial indicators from high solvency ratios, strong reserves and a high claims-paying ability. Not only is the Scheme financially sound with over R7.4 billion in reserves but, over the last 36 months we have signed up 190 000 new members. This figure is significantly higher than the size of most schemes in the industry. Even better for sustainability is that the average age of our new members is around 15 years younger than the current membership. It reinforces the fact that we are succeeding in attracting a younger, healthier profile, which is coveted across the industry.  The future of healthcare is anchored on primary and preventative care as well as sustaining well-being, as opposed to responding to illness. One of the key healthcare trends is the rise in non-communicable or lifestyle diseases, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and cancer. 80% of these conditions are caused by lifestyle risk factors which is why we offer a range of Managed Care programmes aimed at assisting members understand and manage their conditions. Cancer care Cancer prevalence is one of the key concerns facing South Africans and is increasing year on year. Last year, we announced our partnership with the South African Oncology Consortium – the largest network of oncologists in the country to enhance the offerings of our cancer programme including screening for early detection, treatment and palliative care. For 2023 we have restructured benefits to be unlimited for PMB cancers, on all options. Diabetes The latest data from the South African Health Quality Assessment, shows that Bonitas has an effective disease management programme and better outcomes than the industry standard for diabetic members, with improved metrics for Hb1Ac, statins and cholesterol.  But, as we always look for ways to improve, we are proud to introduce a benefit of R51 000 per family per year for an insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor for type 1 diabetics over 18 years. Mental health We are pleased to announce that we’ve introduced an innovative new digital solution, called Panda, to support our members in managing their mental wellness. Panda, a free to download app, offers everything from audio sessions with peers and mental health experts to one-on-one virtual consultations with mental health professionals. We encourage our members to complete a mental health questionnaire in the Bonitas Member App to assess their mental health status. Panda will be available from October 2022. Benefit Booster Launched last year, the Benefit Booster was one of the most innovative changes to hit the medical schemes industry and aimed at supporting our preventative care strategy. It unlocked R446 million in additional benefits for members to extend their day-to-day benefits. For 2023, we’ve opted to adjust the benefits limits in line with utilisation with enhancements seen on several plans. Designated Service Provider (DSP)  We implement networks to negotiate the most favourable tariffs for our members so they can avoid out-of-pocket expenses and get more value. These networks are carefully selected to maintain high levels of healthcare, aligned with our brand promise of providing quality healthcare. We have restructured our options to include a wider hospital network component. In 2023, 85% of our members will be within a 30km radius of a network hospital – with a presence across all nine provinces in line with the footprint of our member base.  This includes a GP network of over 4 400 of the most efficient practices in the country, an extensive pharmacy network, with around 2 500 practices to dispense chronic, acute and over-the-counter medicine through Scriptpharm. Our dental network, through DENIS, is one of the largest on the continent – providing access to around 3 000 practices while our optical network through PPN gives members access to over 2 300 practices. Medicine formulary We have aligned our medicines formulary to the WHO’s Essential Medicines List (EDL) to promote affordability and accessibility to clinically approved medicines, in support of Universal Health Care and promotion of medicine adherence for our members.  Hospital-at-home The technology-enabled Hospital-at-Home service brings all the essential elements of in-hospital care to a patient’s home, without moving away from evidence-based clinical protocols and state-of-the-art 24hr vital sign monitoring. 1 200 members have used the offering to date – equating to around 6 000 days in hospital. We are extending the offering to include: A programme for re-admissions, screening and disease prevention, alternative to stepdown facilities and kidney dialysis at home. Savings  We’ve amended our rules to allow members to use their savings as they deem fit for

September 30, 2022

Mental barriers to studying

Studying is tough and many learners see it as one of the worst aspects of their lives. Most learners have the potential to excel at school, but most do not because of how unpleasant they find studying. For this reason, it is not enough to equip your child with the resources they need to study, but to also identify and address their state of mind.  Below are three common psychological barriers that a learner may face. They are presented in the order that they are likely to unfold.  Lacking Focus “I struggle to get my child to sit down and study.” This is very common and very natural. The benefits of studying and doing well at school are still a long way off from their point of view, or not even apparent. Socialising and entertainment are typically more appealing for a high school teenager. How this becomes an issue is not that they won’t start studying, but rather that they become discouraged easily. Often the phrase, “I’m bored of this”, is actually covering up, “I don’t know how to do this, so I’d rather be doing something else.” At this point, they will quickly turn to something that they know they will enjoy. To mitigate this, you need to have a plan in place to help your child each time they get stuck. This could include hiring a private tutor or using Paper Video. Feeling lost “My child doesn’t know where to start, they are so lost.” This is a common feeling of hopelessness in learners. The feeling that so much has rushed past them that there is no hope left for a recovery. I recall feeling this many times when I was in school and university, and you may as well. The truth is that they are never as lost as what they think they are. The reality is that it is not about finding a starting point but committing to daily revision over the course of months, not 2 weeks before the final exams. Then, your child must not start off by trying to go through whole past papers. This will only worsen the situation. What they must do is start out by identifying the topic that they are most familiar with and start working on easy questions under this topic. The Paper Video platform allows your child to search on a topic name and set the difficulty of question they want to practice. Once they are confident in that section, they can move to the next most familiar section. It is a slow and steady process, but it works. It is like the saying goes; how do you eat an elephant?… One bite at a time. Giving up “My child has given up because they are too far behind.” This is not an easy situation to deal with as it comes with a spectrum of severity. The worst-case scenario is that they need to repeat a year. However, while a high percentage of children feel this way, only a very small percentage are actually this far behind. More often, immediate daily revision can turn this situation around within a month (daily intensive revision is not sustainable in the long run but is required over a few weeks to turn a bad situation around). The challenge now, however, is where to start? The best approach is to start with easy practice questions within each section. Divide past exam papers up into their different sections and spend one day on each section doing the easy questions. On Paper Video, this can be done via our search functionality and by selecting the difficulty level 1 filter.  The next step might sound counter-intuitive, but after your child has gone through all sections, get them to spend some more time on the section for which they felt strongest. However, this time they should attempt difficulty level 2 questions. The reason for this is to build confidence as quickly as possible. Once your child is confident taking on level 2 questions in one section, they will have a strong foundation for that section and feel more confident to head into more uncertain territory. They should now move on to their next strongest section and repeat. As this process continues, they should not worry about moving up to difficulty level 3 questions. These represent a relatively small portion of the exam and are best practiced once your child feels like they have mastered most of the subject. Each one of these barriers is challenging to overcome. There is a good chance that your child may have to overcome all three before regaining control of their studying. This in itself will be exhausting for them and adds a fourth ‘meta-barrier’ to the process. Speak to your child about these barriers, preparing them for each sinking feeling they may encounter, and what to do. Reassure them that if they stick to a consistent studying routine, they will get on top of their work.  The reward for them mastering their studies goes beyond good grades, it will develop their confidence to face seemingly insurmountable challenges. This achievement will stay with them for life.  

September 29, 2022

WHY KOA ACADEMY CHOOSES THE IEB PATHWAY TO THE 4iR WORLD OF WORK

In South Africa, learners following the CAPS curriculum achieve their Matric qualifications (National Senior Certificate – NSC) either through writing the assessments of the Department of Basic Education (DBE) or the Independent Examinations Board (IEB).  However, this is not to say that DBE and NSC learners just write different final examination papers.  There’s a lot more to it than that. In order for the practice of assessment to be meaningful it must be embedded throughout the teaching and learning process.  Therefore, a system of assessment, with its guiding principles and methodologies, uniquely shapes the teacher’s delivery of the curriculum and a learner’s experience of engaging with it.  It also impacts on students’ capacities to apply their learning as they go forward in life.  The DBE and the IBE have notably different approaches when it comes to assessment, and therefore IBE-accredited schools, online or traditional, offer children a distinct learning experience. For Mark Anderson, Co-Founder and Principal of high-engagement online school, Koa Academy, the advantages of the IEB’s more progressive educational philosophy, that goes hand in hand with an advanced approach to assessment, is essential for preparing young generations for a future of work that is vastly different from what their parents have experienced.  He says, “When it comes down to it, what education must do is prepare young people for the real world.  Today that is set in the 4th Industrial Revolution (4iR) context which demands different key skills to succeed in the workplace.  Rather than simply memorising a set of facts by rote, we have to be adept when it comes to critical thinking, problem-solving, communications and emotional intelligence.  For parents, this means that their child’s experience of school should be different from theirs.  If it seems much the same, that’s a red flag.” Application of knowledge versus memorisation of data It’s one thing to be able to repeat what you have learnt, and quite another to be able to apply your knowledge in a range of scenarios.  The first demands memory of content, the latter demands a deep level of understanding. Here are some practical examples of the differences: In English, a memorisation approach leads you to believe that there is one correct way to think and talk about a character or a theme in a story. Critical thinking helps you to understand that there are many possible ways to interpret a story and you are encouraged to find the motivation to back up multiple perspectives. History classes that lean towards memorisation focus on simply remembering an order of events, dates and people’s names. Critical thinking teaches us to evaluate historical events and understand how they relate to our context today. A memorisation approach to Mathematics says that rememberingthe method to solve a specific problem and then simply repeating it is most important. Critical thinking is about understanding numbers and methods so that we can be presented with new problems and confidently solve them. Anne Oberholzer, the CEO of IEB says, “The IEB’s assessments are consciously and deliberately developed in accordance with our Intentional Educational Beliefs.  These are based on educating critical users of information, ethical reasoners, problem solvers, creative and reflective thinkers, lifelong students, society members respectful of diversity and active citizens who are committed to upholding democratic principles and the wellbeing of all people.  These principles are essential for learners to succeed in tertiary studies, their careers and in wider society. They are pivotal in allowing young people to thrive in a world with complex problems to solve, where doing so requires collaboration and innovation on a global scale. If assessments deliberately evaluate these principles, then teachers will teach for their development in the classroom. IEB assessments actively focus on these principles, probing a learner’s understanding and application.” Testing that is more rigorous but less stressful As an IEB-accredited school, Koa Academy puts these principles into action to achieve meaningful assessment.  Anderson explains that this results in an assessment process that is both more rigorous and less anxiety-provoking.  He says, “That sounds like an oxymoron, right?  However, using both formative and summative assessments, we focus on understanding demonstrated through application rather than rote repetition.  Understanding is a far more rigorous and robust level of assessment, yet we can do this in many enjoyable ways that enable learners to demonstrate that they can analyze, interpret, and evaluate information.  They don’t have to go through stressful formal assessments all the time.  Instead, they can enthusiastically plan, create, collaborate, execute, and deliver relevant work that reveals their application of knowledge. The IEB approach allows us to focus on less intense formal test cycles, particularly in the younger grades, and find more meaningful but less stressful ways of assessing learning. In this way we achieve quality over quantity in testing.” There are hard facts that buttress the IEB approach. Anderson says, “It’s no surprise that in a study conducted at the University of Cape Town (Hill, R. 2019, Does the IEB make the grade?) showed that students who had taken the IEB pathway had a higher grade average, particularly in the Medicine and Engineering faculties, and therefore a higher put-through rate to second year. The conclusion of that UCT study was that ‘the exposure to the alternative (IEB) testing method is sufficient for students to see significant improvements in their university performance.’  This is backed up also by the IEB’s track record of alumni accepted into international Ivy League universities.” Proudly South African, the IEB also offers Advanced Programmes enabling matriculants to graduate with enhanced NSC qualifications that are globally recognised as equivalent to A-Levels.   Catch the first Koa Cast here: Koa Principal, Mark Anderson in conversation with Anne Oberholzer, the CEO of IEB.

September 29, 2022

SEXTING, PORN & PREDATORS – UNCOMFORTABLE CONVERSATIONS CAN MAKE KIDS SAFER ONLINE

When it comes to keeping your children safe online, solutions such as parental controls certainly can help.  However, there’s widespread agreement that parents need more than one strategy, and all online safety efforts will be more effective if they are underpinned by open communications between parent and child.  It’s not hard for parents to have ongoing discussions with their child if they are about a topic like cyberbullying, which spans the physical and digital realms.  However, a number of the online dangers for children and youth are far more sensitive topics for conversation that will test most parents’ levels of comfort, especially when it comes to talking about sex and pornography or suicide and suicide ideation. Rachelle Best, the CEO and Founder of FYI play it safe, an AI-powered monitoring app used by families across the world to keep kids safer online, spends a large portion of her working time engaging with parents, teachers, children and youth about the online dangers facing young internet, gaming and mobile app users.  She has a wide-ranging view of how South African parents and their children are either currently tackling or avoiding difficult topics.   Rachelle says, “Parents have different levels of personal comfort with certain sensitive topics that can inhibit them from starting these conversations or responding appropriately if their children initiate them.  In these cases, the ‘not my child’ syndrome is commonly used to deflect from the need to have a conversation about a topic that is uncomfortable for the parent.  Typically, I come across those who will insist their child is ‘too young and innocent or naïve’ to have a conversation that is related to sexting or online pornography or child grooming by predators.  Others will say such conversations aren’t necessary because they trust their child to never look at sexually inappropriate content or engage with a stranger or potential predator.” Parents with ‘not my child’ syndrome’ are at risk of being blind to the ubiquity of online pornography and other content depicting overt adult sexuality.  For instance, latest research shows that while 75% of parents say that they believe their child has never been exposed to pornography, while 53% of children were comfortable admitting that they have been.  It’s likely many more would prefer to deny any engagement with pornography.  Inappropriate online sexual content is not the only concern; children and teens are also vulnerable when it comes to stumbling across or seeking out content around suicide, suicide ideation, self-harm and violence.   Furthermore, social media channels are not only online spaces where children and teens may encounter predators. They could meet potentially dangerous strangers in gaming chatrooms or on other communication app platforms as well.  This ever-evolving landscape, where new apps and games are launched daily, makes it difficult for parents to keep up and keep track of all the digital spaces where their children may be active.  Rachelle says, “This is why open communications forms the bedrock of child online safety.  Parental controls, and advanced monitoring and alert apps such as FYI play it safe are part of the layers of security needed, but one solution alone is unlikely to prevent your child from encountering harmful content.  You have a strong foundation to help keep your children safer online when you are taking an interest in your child’s digital life, talking to them openly about the risks and keeping a conversation going about how best to handle or avoid risks.” Why some parents avoid conversations about difficult topics with children Counselling Psychologist, Lekha Daya says, “There are topics that may trigger shame or a level of discomfort which a parent may not know how to tolerate, causing them to avoid a conversation.  There may also be a gap in parents’ understanding of their teenager’s world because it differs so much from their own experience of youth.  Some parents may feel inadequate at facilitating conversations about difficult topics and prefer just not to have them.  Others may be resistant to learning about and fully understanding the online world, especially when it comes to grappling with both the positives      and negatives of gaming and social media.  There are parents who have an authoritarian and critical parenting style that does not create room for ease in difficult conversations. In these cases, both teens and parents go into a defensive fight or flight mode where having an honest and open conversation becomes challenging, if not impossible.” Top tips for having hard conversations with your tweens and teens Start by being aware of yourself – Reflect on your own feelings of discomfort and/or shame that might be causing resistance and avoidance when it comes to dealing with important online safety topics.  It helps to be aware of your own anxiety      in your body when the topic is brought up – such as a tightening in the chest, quickening of the pulse or an urge to fidget.  Lekha says, “Self-awareness is a lifelong process but one that requires commitment from all parents to equip themselves in having difficult conversations. Building self-awareness for yourself as a parent and for your teen starts with understanding that your responses are often from your own childhood experiences and exposure.” Adjust your expectations – A conversation about a hard topic is a challenge, but you don’t have to be ‘perfect’.  Lekha says, “Self-compassion and allowing for one’s own feelings of vulnerability is important.  Know that you will not always get it ‘right’ in difficult conversations, and that’s okay. Sometimes, your teen might seem to have a knack of bringing up a difficult conversation when you feel unprepared.  Sometimes, you won’t know the answers to their questions. Take the pressure off yourself to have the conversation ‘perfectly’, and forge ahead with it rather than avoid it.  You don’t need to know it all, you can acknowledge what you’re not sure of or don’t know, and then open the conversation up again at a later stage when you’ve found out more. It’s important to be able

September 26, 2022

Baby-proof your home with Safety 1st

New and expecting moms know that there is plenty to prepare in and around the home before baby’s arrival. From setting up a nursery to making sure you’ve stocked up on all the essentials, expecting moms go through plenty of effort to ensure a seamless transition to their new normal.  For the first few months, baby will likely spend most of their time feeding and sleeping, but as they grow a little bit bigger and start moving around on their own, there’s another aspect to consider: home safety. You may have heard the term “baby-proofing” – the act of making an environment safe for babies and small children. This is an essential step to take at home to avoid accidents and ensure your baby or toddler stays safe while enjoying a little bit of their newfound freedom. A few simple additions to your home will ensure your peace of mind, and your little one’s safety.  Keeping safe at home One of the number one safety items you’ll need in your home once baby starts crawling or walking, is a safety gate. Placed at the top and bottom of a staircase, it’ll prevent baby from taking a fall, but it’s also handy to place at the entrance of a room. A room like an office, for example, may contain hazardous items that baby shouldn’t have access to. Placing a gate at the door will prevent baby from entering on their own. Safety 1st Auto Close Safety Gate (R999.99) offers a smart and easy-to-use automatic closing mechanism. Simply squeeze the buttons on the handle to open it and let it close automatically when shutting. It opens in both directions, making it convenient and practical to use.  Most of us have a traumatic childhood memory of a finger getting pinched or closed in a door. Prevent this painful accident by safe-guarding the doors in your home. Safety 1st Finger Pinch Guard (R54.99) protects fingers from accidentally getting pinched by a closing door. When the door is fully closed, it conveniently hangs on the doorknob where it’s easy to access when needed again. It is made from a soft foam material and is easily removed.  If you’ve ever walked into the sharp corner of a table or counter you’ll understand why it is essential to avoid your little one from running into it (especially when it’s head-height!). Safety 1st Corner Cushion 4 Pack(R47.99) contains four foam bumpers that are easily applied to tables, counters and other home furniture to soften the sharp corners and help protect your child. Little ones are curious, and you may find them touching everything they come across. One of the biggest home hazards are plug sockets. Located close to the ground (thus within baby’s reach!), they can cause electrocution, should baby put their finger into one of the holes. Safety 1st Outlet Plug Protectors 12 Pack (R49.99) is an essential. Made with rounded edges that are child-resistant, these durable plastic gadgets fit snugly into an electrical socket, sealing it and protecting baby from electrocution. Keeping safe in the car Once baby arrives, you’ll take much better precautions when you’re on the road, and it’s important to alert others of baby’s presence too. Let everyone know that you’ve got precious cargo on board with the classic Safety 1st Baby On Board Sign (R52.99). It attaches easily to your car’s window and reminds others to drive safely.  Healthcare safety We all know the importance of keeping a first aid kit in your home and in the car, as you never know when you might need it. The same goes for baby. Make sure that you have basic healthcare tools such as a thermometer and medicine dropper stored in a convenient place – when you need it, you’ll want to be able to access it immediately. Safety 1st Healthcare Kit (R269.99) features baby healthcare essentials, conveniently packed in a reversible case. The kit contains a soft-grip toothbrush, new-born nasal aspirator, medicine dropper with spill guard, a digital thermometer and an emergency contact card. If baby’s nails grow too long, they’ll be at risk of scratching themselves, so it’s important to trim them regularly. However, moms know that this can be a challenging task! Take the stress out of nail trimming by investing in a pair of baby nail clippers. Safety 1st Clearview Nail Clipper (R54.99) has an adjustable 5x magnifying lens for a clear view and an easy-grip handle for secure hold. It helps you trim baby’s nails closely and cleanly. Keeping your baby or toddler well-groomed is essential for their health and development. You only need a few basics to keep their hair, nails and teeth in tip top condition. Safety 1st Essential Grooming Kit(R229.95) covers all of baby’s basic grooming needs in one convenient place. The kit contains a soft grip brush and comb, soft grip toothbrush, baby scissors, nail clippers and 5 emery boards in a convenient reversible travel case. All accessories are ergonomically designed and are suitable to use from birth.

September 26, 2022

How do I choose a high school for my child?

Many parents find the process of finding the right school for their child rather daunting, there are, however, preliminary question they need to consider and answer in order to make an informed decision “What do I need to look for?” “What questions do I need to ask?” “How will I know a particular school is the right choice for my child?” A few things to consider when choosing a school for you child are: Are you looking for a private or public school?  If you are looking for a public school, the choice of schools is largely determined by your online application and the fact that the Department of Education determines where your child will be placed based on availability and proximity to the nearest school. If you are looking for a private school, you have a wider selection of schools to choose from, but you still need to consider a number of things when making your choice. What are you able to afford? In South Africa, we have thousands of private schools, with prices ranging from as little as R 2000 a month to fees scaling up to R 12 500 a month, boarding fees excluded. It is important to choose school fees within your affordability bracket, as private schools will not keep a student if his/her account is in arrears, and you will struggle to place your child elsewhere midyear due to unpaid fees. You will possibly also face blacklisting and legal action from the school. Is the school registered with the Provincial Department of Education and is it accredited by Umalusi, or in the process of being accredited by Umalusi? Private schools offering the CAPs curriculum, whether writing the Department of Education (DBE) or Independent Examination Board (IEB) National Senior Certificate examinations at the end of Grade 12, must be registered with the DBE and must either be accredited by Umalusi or be in the process or being accredited. If you are considering enrolling your child in a school that offers the Cambridge curriculum, you need to ensure that they are currently registered with Cambridge International or in the process of reregistration, if their current registration has expired. How does the school assist parents and students in the all-important process of choosing elective subjects at the end of Grade 9? Parents and students need guidance when it comes to choosing subjects at the end of Grade 9. Lack of knowledge may lead to incorrect subject choices, which will close certain fields of study when moving to tertiary education. Life Sciences is valuable when planning to study Medicine, but Physical Sciences is a pre-requisite, for example. It is important to choose a school that offers guidance in the form of career expos, subject choice information sessions and interest & aptitude tests to assist both students and parents with this important decision. Is a traditional or nontraditional school suited to my child’s needs and interests? Students who enjoy team-sport and want to play it at school level, rather than at club level will benefit from attending a traditional school where sport is offered. It is important to check that your child’s sport is in fact offered at the prospective schools and at what level they participate, if this is important to you. Parents and students who enjoy a more rigid school environment, where there are grooming and uniform rules that clearly guide a student’s appearance, should consider a traditional school. Where parents and students do not see the value in strict rules that determine dress code but prefer that students determine their own sense of dress and appearance, they should consider non-traditional schools where students are not required to wear a uniform or adhere to strict hair and jewellery rules Ascertain whether the traditional or non-traditional schools you are considering have a strong academic focus, rather than a stronger focus on sport, if your priority is academic support and success. The main things to remember are: Consider what you are looking for in a school. Pre-set questions you can ask when visiting prospective schools. Attend schools’ open days. Start your search as early as possible. If you have not started your search yet, start now. By Mignonne Gerli – Abbotts College Pretoria-East

September 26, 2022

THE IMPORTANCE OF SWIMMING LESSONS AND WHAT TO EXPECT

I have had the privilege of teaching in larger groups of 5, smaller groups of 2-3, and individual classes. We Learn through play, and fun is key to learning to swim by the time they start Grade 1. Swimming Learning to Swim is not about stroke development. Instead, it is when you can swim from one side to the other side of the pool comfortably and effortlessly, breathing and climbing out of the pool.  Children up to 3 or 4 years old do not know and understand that they are in a learning environment; therefore, repetition of songs, actions, and progressions helps them learn more effectively. I believe the earlier you introduce children to water in a safe environment, the more comfortable and content they will be. Older children have more obstacles to overcome when they start lessons later, e.g., introduction to a large mass of water, orientation, the instructor, the children, the venue, and the building of trust. What do typical swimming lessons look like for each age group? I will begin my journey with the youngest age group; I call them my ‘water babies,’ they are ages one year – eighteen months. They love the water. A parent must accompany their baby in the water and we teach them how to hold and manage the baby. We learn songs and cues; it takes about 4-5 lessons for everyone to settle down in the water. Once babies can crawl, walk and climb on land, they can start learning this in water, and hence why our very first lesson we learn is entry into shallow water before proceeding into the deep end.  If you are fortunate to have a shallow step in your pool, you can make the lesson fun by encouraging your child to crawl like a crocodile, hop like a bunny, and climb or hold onto objects or obstacles. Once we enter the water, we can walk around with the baby on the hip & allow their hands to feel and move through the water. Since they are so small and all their body parts work together simultaneously, parents do most of the actions by manipulating their arms and legs, and as baby grows, they can attempt the activities on their own. Examples of manipulation will be moving their arms around and digging in the water, splashing their feet, and holding on. As they become confident and master a skill, we can progress on each skill. An example of a skill would be back floating. It starts with a parent walking backward in the water with the baby’s head on the parents’ shoulder while the baby is facing upwards. Mom will hold the baby’s hand, and the other hand will drift freely. Eventually, we move the baby off the shoulder and against the parent’s chest with one finger lifting the chin up while the other hand supports the baby’s head. The parents can sing and count to promote confidence and excitement. We then would progress to catch and release the hand away from under the head, catch and support. We should be teaching babies at this age to close their mouths and hum. Humming prevents water from entering through the nose. Humming on its own takes a lot of practice, and cues are vitally important; E.g., 1,2,3 hum and submerge. Please note we only immerse once the baby is comfortable and the mouth is closed. From 18 – 36 months, our toddlers become more independent, and we wean them off the parents in the pool. Activities in this age group include: Holding to the side of the pool, Floating on their backs, If they cannot back float yet, we focus on getting the toddler more comfortable on their backs with ears in the water by supporting them under the head with one hand, and with our other hand, we use a finger to help lift their chin up- wards. Eventually, we progress until they can float for 3 – 4 seconds without the support and increase the duration to 10 seconds. From here, you will teach back, push and glide. Crab crawling along the wall, Climbing in and out, Sitting out the pool and launching to the teacher in the pool is being taught by assisting them in turning & returning to the wall. By now, most toddlers can submerge themselves in the water, and I speak for those attending lessons weekly. Toddlers start learning to blow bubbles, but we still hum when submerging. “Natural accidents” begin to happen because of their independence, eg. They tumble in the water; hands may slip off the poolside during crab crawling, or they may even sniff or drink some water on the step.  These accidents may cause them to become cautious and insecure, but we do our best to motivate and encourage them to continue. Ways of doing this include counting out loud to a certain number which teaches the child that we will eventually have a break when they reach a specific number; patience is key! Age Groups 3-4 years From experience, we see that the children chat away and love demonstrating at this age. We allow them to show off their tricks, as it encourages the other children in the class to participate. Their balance and coordination on a noodle start improving, and their kicks become stronger. One-action swimming is typical for this age group. E.g., They will kick on the noodle, but as soon as they need to take a breath, blow bubbles & kick then, one of the actions stops. The coordination of the required skills takes time to develop in small children. As an instructor, you have the responsibility to remind and assist them. E.g., when they swim underwater, we tap their hands, lift them to take a breath & release them so they can paddle further. We do this often. Another example is saying out loud and clear, kick and blow, cheek/ear in the water, and take a breath. From the age of 3

September 23, 2022
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