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Virtual Social Anxiety: Support for Online Learning

We can all relate to feeling nervous or anxious, child or adult. Social settings, whether in the virtual space or a physical “meet-up”, seem to be a significant cause of this! In today’s uncertainty, children are the ones that are experiencing social anxiety at its core. Moving back and forth between the virtual and physical space has undoubtedly influenced our children’s socialising ability. Children have shifted from everyday social experiences such as meeting at school to a virtual experience where social connections are harder to make and may require intervention from a parent or teacher who can feel uncomfortable. Feeling disconnected or isolated can happen in both a physical and online environment as revolutionary as online learning or online home-schooling, those involved need to be aware of the importance of social connections. Being in the comfort of our home allows learning to happen in a truly comfortable environment. Due to this, children can experience higher levels of virtual social anxiety when needing to connect with their peers outside of the learning environment. As a parent, it is essential to combat these developments or move and work towards remedying them once they have been identified. The following behaviours can be signs of social anxiety and should be monitored: They lack the desire to connect and communicate outside their immediate family circle. Showing significant discomfort when communicating with others on a personal level, beyond learning and teaching content. Showing an increasing lack of desire to interact with children of their age in a “real-life” setting. Hiding away. Not wanting to talk or play. However, providing opportunities and creating expectations can be a healthy way to overcome or combat the development of social anxiety. Some coping strategies for online learning and creating a space that fosters social interaction may be: Getting out of their “comfort space” to go for walks. Going to a library where there are opportunities to talk to and see other people. Participating in non-academic activities and even something as simple as getting involved in community projects. More particularly, creating opportunities for them to connect with children with the same or similar interests is an effective way not to force social interaction but rather encourage it, as this will be the best footing when overcoming the discomfort of social anxiety. Written by Cherie Pieterse – Evolve Online School Activator

August 12, 2022

How to maintain a healthy skincare regime on a budget

As the cost of living rises, it’s becoming increasingly important to find affordable skincare products that don’t skimp on efficacy. The majority of South Africans are feeling the pinch right now. With fuel prices at an all-time high, food prices increasing by the day and the cost of electricity continuously going up (despite constant loadshedding!), there’s a little too much month at the end of everyone’s money. For a lot of people, this means cutting back on expenses and finding more affordable alternatives for pricey items. For some, it has meant adjusting their beauty routines: from purchasing fewer products to switching over to more affordable brands, women are finding ways to maintain a beauty regime without a hefty price tag. There’s a common belief that if a product is expensive, it has to be good. But what science shows us, is that this is not necessarily true. While some ingredients are innately expensive to produce and ramp up a product’s price tag, it’s not the only factor determining pricing. Marketing budgets, advertising campaigns, packaging and celebrity endorsements all add up, often putting a high cost behind products that would otherwise be more affordable. When we consider how “good” a beauty product is, we should be looking at its ingredients and efficacy in isolation, without taking the other factors into consideration. After all, that’s what it’s really about, right? The same goes for more affordable products: a reasonable price tag does not necessarily mean inferior quality. There are some incredibly effective, top quality ingredients out there that are not expensive, and allow brands to produce affordable skincare products that deliver on their promises. But how can you know which is which? In a beauty industry that’s flooded with product options, we recommend always looking to ingredients first. Do your research and find out which ingredients offer the results you’re after, and then determine which products offer the most bang for your buck. One of the best affordable skincare ingredients on the market is Bramley’s Bio-Pharm Oil, used in their much-loved tissue oils. Bramley’s very own unique ceramide blend, Bio-Pharm Oil, enhances the functionality of the skin’s moisture barrier, keeping moisture locked in. The use of Bio-Pharm Oil gives the tissue oils a modern scientific treatment to maintain the healthy appearance of the skin. The ceramides influence the water-holding capacity of the skin and provide structural integrity. Bramley tissue oils are suitable for all skin types and provide best results when applied daily over a period of time. Bramley’s tissue oils also contain another very affordable and highly effective ingredient – vitamin E. Known for its healing and antioxidant properties, vitamin E also helps skin cells repair, softens skin and protects cells from damage. Bramley’s tissue oils are the number one selling tissue oils is South Africa for a reason: Not only are they highly effective at nourishing, moisturizing and softening the skin, but they are affordable, multipurpose and versatile, meaning you only need to buy one product to cover a variety of needs. In a time when we could all do with a little bit of relief when it comes to spending, Bramley’s tissue oils are the answer to maintaining your beauty regime at an affordable price. Use it on your skin Apply a few drops onto a cotton pad and use it as a makeup remover. Apply to dry and cracked lips to soften and moisturise the skin. It can be applied to the skin to help fade dark marks. Use it on your body It can be used as a massage oil. It can be used to minimise the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Use for cracked heels (apply some onto feet and put socks on before bed). Apply it to your cuticles and nail beds to promote healthy nail growth and softer cuticles. Use it as a bath oil – simply pour a few drops into your bath water. Apply before and after shaving your legs to soothe irritation. Mix some tissue oil into your body lotion or butter and apply all over for silky soft skin. Mix some sugar crystals with tissue oil to make your own body scrub. Use it on your hair Use it as a deep treatment to moisturise and soften hair. Apply to your lash line and eyelashes before bed to help promote longer, healthy lashes. With so many uses, it’s easy to understand why Bramley tissue oils are the number one choice of South Africans.

August 12, 2022

LEGENDS OF SPARK

Tick-Tock Racetrack, up for the challenge? The engines on Tick-Tock Racetrack are revving loud and proud, and our hero Spark is bustling busy in August. Watch all the new episodes that will take you around tight new turns of fun! You will be able to join in the celebrations for Spark’s birthday and find out where Flash disappears to when he goes missing. There’s also panic when the repair shop receives a mysterious package that appears to be a ticking time bomb. When the town becomes covered in fog, it’s up to Spark to complete the Tick-Tock Racetrack challenge to disperse it. But that’s just the starting line in the line-up, so tune in and start your engine! PREMIERE: Monday, 15 August 2022 TUNE IN: Monday to Friday @ 17:00 CAT Also available on DStv Catch Up

August 12, 2022

HOW TO ENROL FOR CAMBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL EXAMINATIONS

Benefits of a Cambridge Education A Cambridge education gives students the skills they need for life and helps them achieve in their schooling, university and work. Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) qualifications are accepted by South African and international universities, including Harvard, Cambridge and MIT, and are valued by employers across the world. An International Qualification Cambridge programmes and qualifications are followed by almost a million students aged 5 to 19 (and older) in 160 countries. Whilst the Cambridge curriculum is taught in over 10 000 schools worldwide, students who don’t attend a Cambridge school can enter for the CAIE exams as private candidates. There are many students in South Africa and in other countries who successfully acquire CAIE qualifications as private candidates. Academic Pathway In previous articles, I discussed the importance for students to plan their academic pathway to ensure that they keep their options open for matric and university exemption with Cambridge International qualifications and for possible future careers. For guidelines and information, please click here The Cambridge pathway comprises the stages Primary, Lower Secondary (Stage 7 to Stage 9), Upper Secondary (IGCSE) and Advanced (AS & A Level). We encourage our students to start following the Cambridge pathway from the lower secondary years to build their foundations, but it is not a requirement for students to complete a formal lower secondary course before starting an IGCSE course and to enter for the IGCSE examinations. It is also not a requirement for students to write the IGCSE examinations before starting their AS and A Level courses. However, we strongly encourage students to first complete their IGCSE courses and to write the IGCSE examinations. Not only does this prepare students in the Cambridge instructional and assessment approach, but universities require students to submit their certificates for admission to university during their last year of school. The latest results most students have obtained at this stage, are their IGCSE’s. By achieving high IGCSE results, students greatly increase their chance of successful admission into undergraduate courses, and particularly for admission into selective programmes. Enrolling as a private candidate If you don’t attend a Cambridge school, you should enter for the CAIE exams as a private candidate. There are many schools in South Africa and in other countries that accept and register private candidates for Cambridge exams. 1. Find a Cambridge school that accepts private candidates We suggest that you find a Cambridge school where you would like to enrol for the CAIE exams about six months prior to your intended exam sitting. South Africa falls in administrative Zone 3. There are two exam sittings a year, June (April to June) and November (September to November). To find more information and to search schools and their contact details, click here Contact the school and request that they include you in their mailing list for entries for the upcoming examination series. Enquire about their examination registration dates, fees and any other requirements. The school will then communicate any further information and arrangements regarding the upcoming examinations with you. 2. Register for the upcoming examinations Once their exam registrations open, you need to make arrangements with the school and liaise directly with them to ensure that they register you for your required examinations. Make sure you receive the entry form, subject price list and school policy for external candidates from the school. The school will also assist you with any exam-related queries, such as special arrangements. Contact the school should you have any further questions once you have gone through the documents. You will need to complete and return the entry form and make payment of the fees to the school. The completed entry form, ID document and proof of payment needs to be returned to the school. 3. Communication regarding upcoming examinations You should receive a Statement of Entry from the school, with your entry details and all relevant information regarding the examinations. It is your responsibility to arrive on time for each examination with the required documentation and proof of identity. 4. Communication regarding exam results The results for the June examinations are released in August and the results for the November examinations are released the following January. You should receive communication from the school regarding accessing your Provisional Results when these are due to be released. The communication should also include information regarding the process for collecting your official Statements of Results which generally arrive about three weeks after the release of the provisional results. You should also be advised of the process to collect your official Certificates, which generally arrive from Cambridge about two months later. 5. File your documents securely Once you have collected your official Statement of Results and Certificates, we advise that you scan and copy these, and file them securely. You will be required to submit your official documents in the process of applying for matriculation exemption, university or college admission and for job applications. We suggest that you keep the original documents in a secure place such as a wall safe. After all your hard work and study, you acquired a valuable international qualification, which will open doors to universities worldwide and which has got you future ready so that you can forge your own independent paths in the world. We wish you well as you venture into the next exciting stage of your life. ABOUT CAMBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) is part of the University of Cambridge and provides international education qualifications for children worldwide. FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR OF GLOBAL VILLAGE COLLEGE Tracey Howard is the founder and director of Global Village College. She has experience and expertise in education and organisation development and consultancy, which equips her to understand the human capital requirements of organisations and to facilitate solutions for today’s students who are eager to learn the skills they require to thrive in our rapidly changing and competitive global world. Tracey holds a MSc in Organisation Development and Consultancy from

August 11, 2022

Pool safety on housing estates and gated communities

Eliminating risk and ensuring compliance The estate lifestyle in South Africa has boomed in recent years, creating high demand for family properties on estates. While these communities are favoured for security and convenience, estate homeowners with pools have slightly different factors to consider when it comes to child safety and pool maintenance, according to PowerPlastics Pool Covers. The most important factor for estate pools is ensuring child safety and preventing drowning accidents. In fact this is a regulatory issue, governed by the SABS through its building Standards. Where there are no individual boundary walls or fences enclosing each property in an estate, the pool can be considered a drowning risk. According to the safety Standard (SANS 10134), pool safety must be provided on each property. The most effective way to address this is with the SABS-certified PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover that comes with a safety certificate. A homeowner can be asked to prove compliance at any time, including when selling the property. PowerPlastics Pool Covers was the original company to design what is now the best-selling solid safety cover in South Africa. Compared to other safety methods like fences or nets, this cover forms a complete barrier over the water, allowing for safety as well as reduced maintenance costs. Water saving and water management becomes important where estates are developed around natural ecosystems and residents have sustainability to consider too. One can’t simply let backwash pool water drain into the ecosystem as the chlorine poses a threat to the natural ecosystem. Either the chlorine must be greatly reduced or eliminated, or the waste water must be dealt with in via another responsible process. In summer, the average pool can lose up to 105 litres a day to evaporation. With a solid safety cover, evaporation is curtailed almost entirely, and chlorine demand can be reduced too, given that the water is kept clear of dirt and debris. Pump time can also be decreased, allowing for power savings. The cover ticks all the boxes on child safety as well as sustainability. Compared to the old covers and nets that used hooks and eyelets, the cover is simple to use. It can also be semi-automated for further convenience. The cover supports 220kg and uses a baton and ratchet system to create the tension with no fiddly hooks and eyes. A range of colours allow it to blend in with the home’s outdoor area. There is also an option to print custom content on the cover, such as graphics and photos for user-inspired flair. It is important to note that pools with elaborate designs and features can be tricky to cover with a solid safety cover. The decking or coping should not be restricted by rocks, fountains and flower beds. However, PowerPlastics Pool Covers has a Special Projects team that can design covers for these trickier pools. Order your pool cover today and don’t take chances. Anyone can drown, no one should! Learn more about the PowerPlastics Solid Safety Cover https://powerplastics.co.za/powerplastics-solid-safety-cover/ Get valuable safety tips from TopStep, the home of pool safety – a PowerPlastics Pool Covers educational resource for drowning prevention and pool safety. www.topstep.co.za You can also download the TopStep Child Drowning Prevention Handbook. If you need a better understanding of the safety compliance regulations, contact PowerPlastics Pool Covers who will take you through it. www.powerplastics.co.za

August 11, 2022

LISTENING SKILLS – take note of the role of MUSIC!

You may have read the subject of today’s article and chuckled to yourself. As MUSIC is primarily an auditory experience, of course music has a role to play in promoting listening skills, you might be thinking! But, what I want to expand on today is not just “listening skills” in its most generic form, but AUDITORY PROCESSING. So, what is Auditory Processing and why it is so very important in a child’s development? What is Auditory Processing? Auditory Processing is the natural process of taking in sound through the ear and having it travel to the language area of the brain to be interpreted. In other words, Auditory Processing is “what our brain does with what the ear hears” (Katz). Why is it so important? Imagine this scenario: your child’s pre-school teacher tells him / her that show-and-tell is coming up and they can bring something to share with the class. She then goes over what is appropriate to bring and what is not. Your child must first use their auditory system to acknowledge that they know what show-and-tell is and how it works. Then, your child must use their auditory system to remember that the teacher said show-and-tell was this Friday. They then have to retain what was appropriate to bring and what was not. Finally, they must use their auditory system to store that information and recall or repeat the details to you when they come home from school. Acknowledge-Understand-Retain-Recall-Repeat So, Auditory Processing is not just important, it’s critical to our living and learning! Auditory Processing Disorder is a huge “buzz word” in education at the moment, and the impact of music education in assisting with this, is well known. (External reference – https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/central-auditory.html) Music and Auditory Processing Music strengthens the AUDITORY CORTEX, the part of the brain’s temporal lobe that processes aural information. This means that exposing your child to music-based activities from early on, can positively impact their auditory processing skills. Though scientists don’t yet fully understand the many ways music helps auditory processing and other cognitive skills, they do believe that participating in music-based activities in childhood lays down a neural scaffolding, or framework from which other, similar abilities can grow. Music challenges the brain to look for patterns and to differentiate tones, at a range of speeds. The brain also has to process different sounds in one piece of music simultaneously – picking out the melodies and harmonies. There are also deep-seated interactions between music and the way it is heard by the brain, that stimulate neural connections. FMRI scans show that when movement is added to the music-based activities, a fireworks display goes off in the brain! Movement-based activities help your child’s brain become a “whole” brain. These activities work the left and right sides of the brain to build those neural connections, while also building the brain from top to bottom and back to front. These are the areas that improve expressive language, retention, comprehension, emotional grounding, fight or flight responses, reasoning, critical thinking and much, much more. So, it makes sense that when you add music to movement, there’s the opportunity to really intensify the learning experience … That’s exactly what we aim to do with our Wriggle and Rhyme music and movement programme! We use the amazing medium of music as a catalyst for a vast range of learning and developmental skills. Take note of the role of MUSIC in developing LISTENING SKILLS Musical resources Wriggle and Rhyme has a range of musical stories which you can access on your favourite streaming service (Apple music, Spotify, iTunes, etc.) or take a look at www.wriggleandrhyme.co.za/our-music . We also have fun, musical episodes on our YOUTUBE channel “Wriggle & Rhyme SA”. Our baby and toddler music classes are available in Cape Town – RONDEBOSCH, CLAREMONT, MELKBOSSTRAND and MEADOWRIDGE. Our pre-school music classes take place at partner pre-schools across the Mother City.

August 10, 2022

GIRL POWER GO! WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH, THE GIRLS GET GOING!

This Women’s Month line-up is packed with Girl Power Go!From a crazy girl’s night out with Starfire and Raven in Teen Titans Go! to our favourite sisterhoodDC Super Hero Girls, tracking a mysterious warrior, powerful women are our stars.In The Amazing World of Gumball, Anais faces her bully, and in Craig of the Creek, Kelsea takes on a terrifying quest. Stay tuned for the Lego DC Super Hero Girls: Super-Villain High movie, where the girls discover a new high school for villains and must rescue the students from their own fate! Get ready for this girl power stunt, only on Cartoon Network Africa. TUNE IN: Tuesday, 09 August @ 09:55 CAT

August 8, 2022

I Am Groot

“I Am Groot” is a collection of five original shorts starring Baby Groot, everyone’s favourite little tree, and will feature several new and unusual characters. All five shorts will be available for viewers to watch upon launch. There’s no guarding the galaxy from this mischievous toddler! So get ready as Baby Groot takes centre stage in his very own series, exploring his glory days growing up—and getting into trouble—among the stars. Vin Diesel, who is the voice of Groot in the “Guardians of the Galaxy” franchise, is the voice of Baby Groot. 10 August

August 8, 2022

Tips for longer-lasting fragrance

Have you ever sprayed your favourite perfume, only to find the scent disappeared after a couple of hours? It is common for fragrances with light, fresh notes to disappear faster than fragrances with heavier oriental, floral or woody notes. However, the longevity of your fragrance is not just dependent on its composition – it’s also largely dependent on how you use it. Follow these simple tips to ensure you get the most out of your fragrance and increase its longevity: Know your EDT from your EDP Most fragrances are either an “EDT” – eau de toilette, or an “EDP” – eau de parfum. An eau de toilette typically contains around 8-15% fragrance oil which lasts around 4-6 hours, in comparison to an eau de parfum which typically contains 15-30% fragrance oil and can last up to 8-10 hours. An eau de parfum therefore has a higher concentration of fragrance oil, meaning it will typically last longer on the skin. If you prefer not to reapply your fragrance during the day, then an eau de parfum is your best option, as it typically lasts for most of the day. For him, try: Mercedes Benz Sign Eau de Parfum (R1895.00 for 100ml). A fougere oriental, this fragrance features top notes of cardamom and pink peppercorn, heart notes of aromatic lavender, orange blossom, rose geranium and base notes of tonka bean, white musk and cashmere. For her, try: Mercedes Benz For Woman Eau De Parfum (R1495.00 for 60ml). It’s an enchanting, luxurious, unexpected fragrance created to accentuate and exalt a woman’s personality with a rich, sophisticated accord composed of sandalwood, vanilla, musk and cashmere woods. Moisturise your skin Moisturised skin holds onto fragrance a lot longer than drier skin. To make your scent last longer, we recommend applying a fragrance-free body lotion all over before you begin spritzing. Apply your fragrance after a shower The steam from a shower helps open the aroma of your fragrance: When you get out of the shower, your skin and body temperature is high, and heat helps diffuse fragrance. In addition, clean post-shower skin is free from sweat, oil and impurities which can interfere with your fragrance. Layer your fragrance If you have a shower gel or scented body lotion or oil of the same scent as your fragrance, layering these products will increase the longevity of your fragrance, and may also enhance your fragrance. Love an uplifting scent? Layer your fragrance with Superdry Re:Vive Body+Hair Wash (R95.99) and Superdry Re:Vive Body Spray (R79.99). Invigorating and zesty, this duo is powered by notes of cardamom and lemon. Prefer a marine-inspired scent? Try Superdry’s Pacific Men’s Body+Hair Wash (R95.99) and Pacific Men’s Body Spray (R79.99) features oceanic citrus marine notes and masculine mineral depths for a fresh, marine-inspired scent. Don’t rub your wrists together If you apply fragrance to your wrists, you may feel an instinctual urge to rub them together, but in doing this, you can make the top notes disappear faster. Not only does this affect the fragrance’s longevity, but it also alters its scent. Store your fragrance correctly Exposure to light and heat can chemically alter your fragrance. Maintain its scent and longevity by storing your fragrance correctly. Store your fragrance in a cool and dark place. As tempting as it is to keep it on your dressing table, exposure to sunlight and humidity can cause unwanted chemical reactions to occur. We recommend keeping it in its original bottle, in a drawer or cupboard not too close to a bathroom where it can be exposed to steam. Apply to your pulse points Experts recommend applying fragrance to your pulse points as your skin is the thinnest at these points, meaning the veins are closer to the skin, making these areas warmer. Essentially, pulse points are like mini radiators, and heat helps diffuse fragrance. Pulse points are found on the insides of your wrists and elbows, behind your ears, on your neck and the back of your knees. A few spritzes of Rockford Homme Wild Black Eau De Toilette (R425.00 for 100ml) on the wrists is all you need for all-day fragrance. This oriental, warm fragrance features ginger and citrus notes at the top, cinnamon and incense in the heart and leather and amber bottom notes. Don’t spray regular perfume in your hair The temptation to spray perfume in your hair is very real – after all, it holds fragrance longer than skin does. But most fragrances have a high alcohol percentage, and alcohol is dehydrating. Because dryness and dehydration is such a common hair concern, it’s best to avoid spraying your fragrance in your hair. Instead, opt for a hair mist or hair perfume. Formulated without drying alcohol, hair perfume is safe to use and won’t damage or dry your hair. Try Curls In Bloom Hair Perfume (R69.95). A light and nourishing formula that delicately scents the hair with green apples, lily of the valley and sandalwood, it also fights frizz, leaving hair soft and nourished throughout the day.

August 8, 2022

ASTHMA

Asthma is one of the most common chronic illnesses, affecting over 339 million people worldwide. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), asthma kills around 1 000 people every day and the prevalence is rising. South Africa is ranked 25th worldwide for asthma prevalence and is ranked fifth for asthma mortality. The lack of appropriate diagnosis, treatment or access to care may be important considerations in tackling asthma morbidity and mortality in South Africa. What is asthma? Asthma is one of the most common respiratory complaints in the world where your airways – known as bronchial rubes – become inflamed. This swelling or inflammation makes the airways extremely sensitive to irritations and increases their susceptibility to an allergic reaction. In an allergic reaction, the airways swell and the muscles around the airway tighten, making it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. It affects approximately one in 10 children (10%) and one in 20 adults (5%) and can occur for the first time at any age, even in adulthood. Although asthma usually begins before the age of five, a few children affected will ‘outgrow’ it during their teenage years but it usually persists if contracted in adulthood. Asthma tends to run in families, as do related allergic conditions like hay fever and eczema Signs and symptoms Asthma is often under-diagnosed and under-treated. If you fail to recognise and avoid triggers that lead to your tightened airways, you may have an asthma attack, feel respiratory distress or experience a life-threatening situation. So, it’s important that you know how to avoid the triggers and recognise the signs of this condition to enjoy a better quality of life. Symptoms can range from mild to more serious depending on the severity of the illness but include: Coughing that does not subside and gets worse at night Wheezing Shortness of breath Tightness or pain in the chest What causes asthma? The exact cause of the asthmatic process is not well understood but it is thought to be triggered off by an allergy or when the lungs are irritated by something in the air. Research shows that the risk facts are a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental exposure to inhaled substances and particles that may cause allergic reactions or irritate the airways. These include indoor allergens – such as dust mites and pet dander in the home, outdoor allergens – such as pollen and mould as well as tobacco smoke and air pollution. Other triggers can include cold air, stress or physical exercise. Certain medications, such as aspirin and other non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs and beta-blockers (which are used to treat high blood pressure, heart conditions and migraine) can also set off an asthma attack. Factors associated with asthma prevalence or disease severity in South African children include the adoption of an urban lifestyle, atopy (a genetic predisposition),obesity, respiratory infection, or exposure to industrial pollution or tobacco smoke. Treating asthma Asthma can be life threatening when left untreated and cannot be cured but, with the right treatment most asthmatics will lead completely normal lives. The aim of treatment should be to make the lungs and breathing tubes as normal as possible so that there are minimal symptoms and as little disruption to ordinary life as possible. Get help Bonitas Medical Fund says, ‘If you are experiencing asthma symptoms or think you might have asthma, it is important for you to talk to your GP. This will help you establish if your symptoms are linked to asthma or whether something else is causing them.’

August 8, 2022

Let’s make tummy time fun

Make tummy time even more fun for your baby with this Fisher-Price Music & Vibe Sloth Tummy Wedge. The two respositionable activity toys, which include a BPA-free leaf teether and colourful clackers, will encourage your little one to lift their head and push up to play with them, while strengthening their neck and core muscles. They can enjoy exploring the textures of the large, friendly crinkle sloth face with his soft “hair” as gentle music and vibrations play for up to 10 minutes to calm them and give them extra comfort. From birth and up. Keep your little one engaged during tummy time with this fun Fisher-Price Music & Vibe Sloth Tummy Wedge toy.The two repositionable activity toys will encourage your baby to lift their head and push up to engage with them, while strengthening their neck and core muscles. Your baby will enjoy exploring the large, friendly crinkle sloth face and his “hair” as comforting music and vibrations play for up to 10 minutes.The two activity toys featured within this Fisher-Price interactive toy for babies, are a BPA-free leaf teether and colourful clackers.Machine washable (with electronics removed).

August 5, 2022

SCREENTIME: BALANCING THE BENEFITS VS PERILS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN

Screens have become ubiquitous among young children, whose often exhausted parents need their child entertained and engaged while they work, go out or take some much-needed me-time. Whereas parents used to lug around huge bags filled with toys in the past, these have now been replaced by bright, responsive and, frankly, more compelling devices. The screentime debate got virtually muted during Covid, as parents needed the electronic nanny more than ever, and kids moved onto their devices for schooling. But the time is right again to have a discussion not about cancelling screentime, but about how to strike the right balance between screentime and green time, as well as the differences between different kinds of screentime as children, continue their educational journeys online to a significant degree, an education expert says. “We need to avoid the scaremongering and bad science that leads to an unbalanced understanding of the importance of screens in today’s educational ecosystem and instead consider the specific types and uses of a screen when deciding on how to strike a balance in terms of screentime,” says Colin Northmore, Principal at Evolve Online School, a brand of ADvTECH, Africa’s largest private education provider. Northmore points out that the issue of screentime has become more vexing than ever before, as the “relaxation” type of screentime has now become augmented by “educational” screentime, and parents struggle to make a call on where to draw the line. “Most research recommends that children spend no more than 1 to 4 hours a day looking at a screen. As an online school, one could say that we have a vested interest in arguing that screentime is not harmful. However, the truth is that like most things in life, it is a bit more complicated than that because screentime as a catch-all phrase is not a useful measurement on its own,” Northmore says. “Additionally, as many students are in front of a screen for educational purposes – would that be considered screentime or not? The answer lies in defining three different types of screentime: passive, active and engaged.” PASSIVE SCREENTIME is when the person is watching a screen for entertainment reasons without interacting with the content physically or cognitively. Typical examples are watching television or YouTube videos. It can also include some games that require routine and easily learned responses, like various popular games in the app stores. Unfortunately, where an online school uses mostly pre-recorded lessons or lectures, those should fall into the ‘passive screentime’ category. Northmore says passive screen time should be limited to one hour a day for younger children. ACTIVE SCREENTIME requires the viewer to interact with what is on the screen. Many computer games fall into this category. Documentaries can also sometimes be considered active if the student takes time to make notes about the content or debate it with family or classmates. Online classes are considered active if the teacher’s process requires children’s full attention (but not necessarily active participation). Some apps used for mathematics, reading and grammar practice can also lead to a child actively using a screen. Active screentime can be rationed at 1 to 3 hours a day, depending on the length of and spacing between sessions. Grade 0 to 3 students should not spend more than 30 minutes in any active session. COGNITIVE SCREENTIME requires active engagement from the participant and should form the bulk of an online school’s teaching, failing which this time should be allocated to passive screentime. Northmore says meaningful online schooling should use systems that make it possible to interrupt the video and ask questions before the viewing can continue. Teachers can then decide if the answer is correct before the video proceeds. If necessary, the video can be rewound to require children to watch a piece repeatedly until they demonstrate understanding. Students can spend between 2 to 4 hours a day on cognitive screentime activities. “It is important to ensure that the screentime that your child is exposed to is a combination of the three types and that schooling isn’t automatically considered cognitive screentime when it is, in fact, passive screentime,” says Northmore. He adds that parents should also keep in mind that children need, in addition to time spent on screens, green time, team time and Dreamtime. Green time is outside time without devices – the backyard, park, or sports field. Kids need outside physical activities, and ideally, an online school should provide opportunities for such just the same as a physical school would do, such as assigning tasks requiring students to get outside to find answers. Team time is also essential, particularly in the online schooling environment, which can be isolating if not actively supported. Dreamtime develops a child’s imagination and is the most powerful tool for overcoming obstacles and finding creative solutions to seemingly unsolvable problems. Mindfulness exercises and imaginative play are crucial to developing the imagination, and even online schools should actively include Dreamtime in curricula. “Parents must carefully consider the approach of screentime pedagogy in an online school or not. Screentime cannot be regarded as valuable learning time if it is mainly paper behind glass. Children still need social interaction and collaborative learning. “So when making the call on screentime limits for children, parents need to carefully weigh up the categories into which their child’s screentime falls every day, and make their assessment accordingly.

August 5, 2022

HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 2 – WHAT ARE YOUR MOST “MONSTERIFIC” MOVES?

Take in this treat of a monster boot camp movie on Cartoon Network. Ever since Mavis, Dracula’s daughter, became a mom, he has been the happiest vampire grandpa in the world! His toddler monster grandchild, Dennis, is the apple of his vamp eye. So much so that even his monster-only hotel policy has relaxed, and he now allows human guests to visit. But behind closed coffins, he’s secretly worried because his adorable half-human, half-vampire grandson isn’t showing signs of being a vampire. When the time comes for Mavis to take a trip to visit her in-laws, “Drac” takes his chance to test and train Dennis to be a “vamp”, and the boot camp rampage begins. TUNE IN: Monday, 08 August @ 09:55 CAT

August 5, 2022

ZIG & SHARKO

Singing seashells! It’s marvellous Marina! Marina, the mermaid with the merry laugh and melodious voice, is singing her way into the spotlight this Women’s Month. In this special two-day Zig & Sharko marathon, Marina is simply adorable! She may live on a rock in a heavenly lagoon, but her days are filled with excitement, and she has so many suitors! A castaway, a fisherman and even King Neptune himself. Boomerang can’t wait to bring you these episodes full of her playful stories. And while her melodies make her a superstar singer, watch out because there is a rumour that another mermaid might show up in the lagoon. PREMIERE: Monday, 08 August 2022 TUNE IN: Monday & Tuesday @ 07:30 CAT

August 5, 2022

Step up to support breast feeding

At My Breastpump we celebrate World Breast Feeding week every year from the 1-7 August. This year the theme is “Stepping up to support breast feeding”. During the pandemic the support for breastfeeding dropped drastically. Mothers were not able to have face to face support groups, some antenatal preparation classes were cancelled or moved online, partners were not able to attend doctors visit or sometimes even attend the birth. Some mothers were all alone in the hospital until discharge. Mothers were then further isolated after giving birth in order to protect their new born from exposure to Corona Virus. All of these practices resulted in less breast-feeding support for mothers and their families. Now is the time that we need to start bring back all the different types of breast-feeding support that we know works and is enjoyed by mothers but also to learn from the new ways of supporting mothers that we learnt due to the pandemic. Over the last 2 years, My Breastpump has supported mothers by running Online breastfeeding and pumping workshops with our lactation consultant. Assisted with antenatal classes. Attended many of the baby shows country wide, chatting to mothers about breast feeding and pumping. Collaborated with Little Little Prem with online classes for mothers that have just had premature infants to help and support them. Write breastfeeding article that are published monthly on Parenting Hub. Our goal is to support mothers by giving them correct and valuable information around breast feeding and pumping so that they are confidant and able to breast feed. Hacks for mothers who want to breast feed or pump: 1. Start learning about breast feeding while you are pregnant The more that you know about breast feeding the better equipped you will be and, more able to make informed choices about how your baby is fed. 2. Talk to your partner about how they can support you to breastfeed Studies have shown that when a mother has a partner that support breast feeding, they are more likely to have a successful breast-feeding relationship. There are many different and supportive roles that partners can play with breast feeding. Some examples are: they can support and help with latching, make sure the mom is comfortable and well hydrated during feeds, change nappies and do bath time so that mom can rest. 3. Understand how breast milk is made By understanding breast milk production this can really help you with your breastfeeding. You will be able to increase your milk supply, manage engorgement and know that your body responds to your baby’s needs. Learn about prolactin and oxytocin and how they make breast milk. Learn how to “flip on” your body’s breast-feeding switch. This will make you more confidence with your breast milk making abilities. 4. Learn how to breast feed with a deep latch Learning how to breastfeed comfortable is key to enjoying breastfeeding and also a good milk supply. Learn how to hold your baby so that you will be able to get a nice comfortable deep latch. This will help to make your feed time shorter while ensuring that your baby gets enough breast milk. A deep latch also prevents pain and many of the other complications that can happen with a shallow latch. 5. Know how to monitor your baby to see if they are getting enough milk Many mothers worry that they are not giving their baby enough milk or that her baby is hungry. With breast feeding there are ways to monitor how her baby is feeding and to check if they are getting enough milk. 6. Know what to look for in a breast pump for best results Learn the important features and specs of the breast pump so that you are able to buy the wright breast pump for you. Features that you should consider when buying a breast pump are: closed system, warranty duration, hospital grade and double, so that you can make the best-informed choice which you purchase your breast pump. So many mothers end up buying a second pump because the first one was not working correctly. See an article here for more information 7. Learn how to store and manage your breast milk stash Storage of expressed breast milk is really important that you do not want any of your milk to go to waste or use a breast milk storage bag that might burst while in the freezer. See more about building up your breast milk stash 8. Know when to ask for help and who to ask As moms we are told we can and should do every thing but this is not true. When we need help, we just need to ask for it. The same is true with breast feeding and pumping. Asking for help can save your milk supply, increase your confidence and let you enjoy being a breast-feeding mom. Pop us a message and we will help you find a lactation consultant near you. 9. Find out from work what the HR policy is for when you return to work with regards to expressing In South Africa there are recommendation that woman returning to work after having their baby should have breast feeding breaks and these breaks should be in a clean and safe area. Ask your HR before you go on maternity leave what the policy is so that you are prepared and ready when you go back to work. If there is no policy, then you can work with them to make sure that you are able to express your breast milk. Read more about Work place and breast feeding balance 10. Take one day at a time Taking one day at a time and living in the moment is a great way to spend your maternity leave. Focus on what you have achieve today with your breast feeding and you will be surprised how quickly the time flys by. If you are expecting a baby or new to breast feeding you are

August 5, 2022

Natural organic oils vs mineral oils

Here’s why knowing the difference could have major benefits for your skin. With such a big variety of oils on the market these days that it’s important to gain an understanding of what each type of oil is, and what it does, so that you can use it to your advantage. After all, not all oils are created equal, so it’s important to know what you’re putting on your skin. Two of the most common oils used in cosmetic products are natural organic oils and mineral oils. Different in their make-up and origin, they’re often put up against one another in the quest to find the best skincare treatments. Understanding the differences between them will help you make an informed decision – and it could save the health of your skin! Natural organic oil What is it? The term “organic” is often misused in the beauty industry, leading to confusion and misinformation. An ingredient or product is “organic” if it adheres to certain standards and requirements during the sourcing, production and processing phases. This includes practices like avoiding the use of prohibited substances (for example pesticides) and other potentially harmful additives. Natural organic oils are oils sourced organically, from organically-grown plants, fruits, nuts, flowers, bark, leaves, roots and stems. These oils are highly concentrated and filled with natural nutrients. Pros These oils absorb into the skin quickly and can actually penetrate the skin through pores and the intracellular matrix. Natural organic oils offer a wide variety of skincare benefits. They may be moisturising, antimicrobial, soothing, clarifying, detoxifying, balancing and rejuvenating. Natural organic oils are free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives and are safe to use on skin. Many of these oils have been used for centuries, providing us with the peace of mind that their long-term use is safe and beneficial. Organic farming practices are eco-friendly; they help restore soil health and prevent harmful chemicals from entering water sources and soil. Cons Natural organic oils may be more expensive than other oils. In a very small percentage of people, the use of certain natural oils may lead to skin sensitivity or irritation. The terms “natural” and “organic” are not well-regulated, and are often used in misleading ways. When purchasing natural organic oils, make sure you are buying from a reputable brand that’s transparent about the source of the ingredients. Mineral oil What is it? Despite being a popular ingredient in cosmetic products, mineral oil is known to arouse quite a bit of suspicion. It is, essentially, a derivative of petroleum (as in crude oil). But unlike untreated crude oil, mineral oil is highly refined and stripped from potentially harmful carcinogenics like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons before it is used in cosmetics (mineral oil is popularly used in antiperspirants and moisturisers). Despite being refined, there is still a lot of concern over the trace amounts of chemicals present in mineral oils, and their potential to pose health risks. The pros Mineral oil has the ability to protect the skin’s natural barrier and to lock in moisture. It has hydrating, softening and smoothing properties. It is well-tolerated and inert, and while some plant-based oils may cause irritation, mineral oil is unlikely to trigger sensitivity or irritation. It is inexpensive. The cons Depending on its level of refinement, mineral oil may be comedogenic, meaning it can clog pores, causing blackheads and breakouts. It is highly occlusive, which has led to concerns that it may prevent toxins from leaving the body through the skin. There are concerns over the trace amounts of chemicals present in mineral oil, which are present despite the refinement process. It is derived from a non-renewable resource. While it is effective at forming a thin barrier on top of the skin to prevent moisture loss, it can leave a heavy feel on the skin, so it needs to be combined with other ingredients to improve its cosmetic appeal. While we know that mineral oil goes through a refinement process, some companies use more refined mineral oil than others, and as a consumer, it is very difficult to know how refined the oil in your product is. If not highly refined, it may include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are carcinogenic. Typically, mineral oils used in the USA are not as refined as those used in Europe. Medical News Today recommends*, “People should avoid buying products that contain mineral oil unless the label states that it is fully refined as white petrolatum or white mineral oil. White mineral oil is highly purified and meets specifications to ensure that it is safe to use in over-the-counter products.” Considering both the pros and the cons of natural organic and mineral oils, it is clear that natural organic oils are not only better for your health, but also for the environment. Looking for top quality natural organic oils to nourish and protect your skin? BaoCare is a proudly South African skincare brand that harnesses the power of organic baobab oil to offer consumers 100% natural healing baobab oil serums suitable for the whole family. Why baobab oil? The baobab tree is known for offering an abundance of treasures, with almost every part of the tree (roots, leaves, fruit etc) being utilised by people living around it. The discovery of the beauty benefits of baobab oil has led to this natural oil gaining international recognition and popularity in the beauty industry. A lot of lotions and moisturisers on the market are water-based, which means that they require added stabilizers, synthetic preservatives, performance enhancers and fragrances to keep them stable and improve the user’s sensorial experience. Natural organic oils rarely need any of these additives, and baobab oil in particular is a very stable oil that does not require preservatives (it has a natural shelf-life of two years or more!). Baobab oil is a naturally light oil made up of very small molecules and therefore absorbs quickly and easily into the skin. It leaves your skin with a soft satiny finish without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue. It’s one of

August 4, 2022

The Importance of exercise in education

Compelling evidence suggests that exercising regularly is not only good for a child’s physical health but has great benefits for their mind too. Research has shown that children who do physical activities are more productive, are able to better manage their time, and are more motivated in their studies. Some of the benefits of incorporating regular exercise into your child’s routine include; Improved Concentration Sharper memory Faster learning Prolonged mental stamina Lower Stress and anxiety Enhanced creativity Children learn better when they want to learn and when they are self-motivated. Enrolling a child in a flexible and personalised schooling environment, like CambriLearn, allows for more effective and conscious learning routines and frees up more time for kids to do daily exercise. Productivity and performance Improved productivity is a by-product of both the physical and mental benefits of regular exercise. Exercise improves student productivity by increasing blood, glucose and oxygen levels in the brain. This leads to being more alert and receptive, sharpening our awareness, and helping us to focus on our tasks and think more clearly. Scientists suspect that exercise alters the biology of the brain in ways that make it more malleable and receptive to new information, a process that scientists refer to as plasticity. It also increases the size of the hippocampus (the part of your brain responsible for memory and learning), aids brain cell health and thickens your cerebral cortex which is known to be associated with human intellectual ability and general intelligence. Based on research conducted by Harvard University, it was found that exercising boosts mental abilities such as enhanced creativity, quicker learning, sharper memory and improved concentration. Enhancing our cognitive (memory & concentration) processes through exercise enables us to soak in more information, work more efficiently and be more productive. Exercise also benefits other forms of cognitive performance including multi-tasking, concentration, alertness, and decision making – all of which are essential elements for productive and focused learning. Our physical regimen and efficient learning schedules have also been shown to mitigate some of the effects of the post-afternoon slump, where productivity and focus can be harder to maintain. Briston University conducted a study using a sample of 200 employees at three different types of organisations. The employees evaluated output on a day with exercise and a day without. It was established that on days when participants worked out, they experienced 21% higher concentration, 22% higher for meeting deadlines, and 41% for feeling more motivated to complete their work. The same results can be applied to the classroom as students who exercise regularly show increased productivity and performance. In addition to sharpening mental performance, regular physical activity improves time-management skills, which in turn improves your ability to meet deadlines. It has been reported that exercising on schooldays can boost one’s time management skills and daily completed workload by 72%. Natural mood enhancer Regular exercise can improve your well-being beyond the physical perks, by enhancing your mood and attitude. It also potentially improves a child’s ability to act as a team player. Studies by McKenna university have found that people who exercise regularly are less likely to lose their tempers with others. With this in mind, feeling irritable is no longer simply an inconvenience – it can directly influence the degree to which a child is successful. Working out releases feel-good neurotransmitters like endorphins and serotonin, and reduces the circulation of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. This helps students to manage their stress and anxiety. Stressed-out students have trouble focusing, thinking clearly, and making rational decisions. Whereas students who exercise report positive effects including increased tolerance, lessened tempers, relieved anxiety and depression, heightened morale and a greater sense of calmness. Productivity is also known to increase how good a person feels. One study indicated that people who were in a good mood tended to produce better work and be nearly 10% more productive overall. Ultimately, students who exercise report that they simply feel more productive and more satisfied than those who don’t. Exercising lowers the physical effects of stress that often results in tense muscles, painful headaches, or a sore neck. With physical activity, our muscles relax, inflammation is reduced and tension is relieved throughout the body. Exercise can also increase motivation at a chemical level with the release of dopamine. The dopamine hormone energises and encourages happiness. Researchers now believe that dopamine is also partially responsible for motivation and persistence when chasing goals. In addition, choosing to take part in physical exercise has real physiological benefits by teaching us persistence and building resilience, not just for your next exercise session, but for life in general. An underrated cure for burnout With the never-ending pressure being placed on children in a traditional schooling environment, student burnout has become a more common issue. Exercise has been recommended by psychologists to treat student burnout. Symptoms of burnout include exhaustion, demotivation, and a drop in productivity. One study identified that “cardiovascular exercise was found to increase well-being and decrease psychological distress, perceived stress, and emotional exhaustion.” The study concluded that exercise is a great way of helping learners recover from burnout. Reduced exhaustion Although it might seem contradictory, one of the best ways to battle fatigue is to work out. Exercising can actually give you more energy and help children avoid the afternoon crash. Researchers have found that exercise can decrease chronic fatigue and provide children with more energy. Our energy levels are an important indicator of wellbeing and engagement. Exercise improves circulation and strengthens the heart muscle, providing an instant rush of energy. When our bodies are physically active, our energy capacity increases. Specifically, every time you exercise and push yourself a bit harder than you did the last time, your body recovers, and your energy capacity is increased. In particular, working out in the morning gives you an instant sense of accomplishment which can last for the remainder of the day. This sense of accomplishment can give you more energy to tackle other tasks in the afternoon.

August 4, 2022

DO YOU PLAY YOUR PART IN SUPPORTING MUMS TO BREASTFEED?

Supporting breastfeeding is not just for health professionals; it involves all of society. Not many people realise the impact they can have on a mom’s experience when it comes to exclusively breastfeeding her new baby for the first six months of life. Misguided advice, thoughtless comments and shaming attitudes from family members, friends and colleagues can take their toll, especially on new mothers who are experiencing a uniquely vulnerable time. Breastfeeding has nothing but benefits – it boosts and protects both mom and baby’s health in multiple ways, encourages vital bonding and offers a best possible start out in life for an infant. Breastfeeding is also a vital source of food security for babies and families, communities and countries, which cannot be ignored in times of food supply disruptions and climate change impacts. So, if you find yourself feeling uncomfortable or even, negative when it comes to the topic of breastfeeding, it may be time to think again. World Breastfeeding Week, which is celebrated over the first week of August every year, is encouraging individuals from all walks of life to become part of the warm chain that supports breastfeeding. This is a reminder that we all have the power to choose to be allies when it comes to changing our world for the better. Why do breastfeeding moms need support? Like other mammals, human babies are born with a reflex to seek their mother’s breast – but that doesn’t mean that breastfeeding is easy for all. Every mother and baby dyad is unique, so even if a mom breastfed a first baby easily, she may have a totally different experience with a new baby. It’s normal for many mothers to need practical and problem-solving support; and for breastfeeding to take practice for both mothers and babies. Breastfeeding is also time-intensive, which means that new mothers need space and extra support at home. Maria van der Merwe, President of ADSA, (The Association for Dietetics in South Africa), points out that South Africa still has far to go when it comes to improving its low rate of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, which was last reported in 2016 at less than 32%. She says, “Mothers in South Africa face a host of barriers to breastfeeding, that range from societal attitudes and the interference of family and friends to the pervasive lack of access to healthcare support and workplaces that are either hostile or discouraging to breastfeeding mothers. This is why a multi-pronged, countrywide effort is required. We need to be more aware of the challenges moms may face, and more supportive in connecting them to sustainable solutions. People who disparage mothers who breastfeed in public need to be aware that because feeding infants where and when they are hungry is so important, this is protected by law. In addition, companies are required to ensure that new mothers in their employ are able to take private breaks to express breastmilk during their working hours.” What can you do to support breastfeeding moms? Supportive communications – Be aware of what you say to new moms in your family and friend circles. There are many myths about breastfeeding, and it is not helpful to inadvertently share these. Avoid casting doubt on a new mom’s abilities to exclusively breastfeed for the first six months of life by suggesting introducing solid foods or switching to infant formula, even if this is something that you did with your babies. Moms who are struggling or have any anxieties about breastfeeding should be advised by their healthcare professionals or lactation specialists who will support their unique breastfeeding journeys. Be a cheerleader for your friends and relatives who are breastfeeding, even if you’re not a parent or a mom who breastfed. Supportive partners – If your partner is breastfeeding, you are in a fantastic position to champion breastfeeding every day. Take on the role of creating a home conducive to breastfeeding by freeing up the new mom from energy and time-sapping chores. Get involved in burping after feeds and bathing the baby, as well as taking on the grocery shopping and food preparation so that mom has stress-free time to focus on breastfeeding. Supportive workplaces – Unfortunately, the need to return to work is one of the most common reasons why new moms give up on breastfeeding. The WHO (World Health Organization) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, and ongoing breastfeeding, up to and over two years of age. But employed mothers usually get maternity leave for just 3 or 4 months, or less. As a business leader or owner, you can step up for breastfeeding by making it easy for the moms on your staff to express and store breastmilk at work. It is mandatory to ensure that breastfeeding employees get at least two 30-minute breaks to breastfeed or express breastmilk during the first six months of the infant’s life. You can also make sure moms on your staff have a conducive, private space, and access to a fridge to store breastmilk. Maria concludes, “South Africa has some way to go in the development of a true pro-breastfeeding culture that will improve our dismal breastfeeding record. While the WHO has set a country target of a 50% breastfeeding rate by 2025, breastfeeding with all its health benefits and as a food security strategy should be the norm for South African moms.”

August 3, 2022

Reducing childhood mortality through local vaccine manufacturing

Vaccines remain one of the most cost-effective and critical medical interventions to successfully eradicate vaccine-preventable diseases while reducing the burden of disease and mortality from diseases such as pneumonia and other associated pneumococcal diseases1, writes Professor Prakash Mohan Jeena, paediatric pulmonologist and head of the paediatric intensive care and pulmonology department at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Vaccines have proven effective in eradicating and eliminating preventable diseases, with smallpox caused by the variola virus (VARV) and rinderpest from the rinderpest virus (RPV) now eliminated, thanks to vaccine intervention initiatives2. Similar benefits are now being realised with the implementation of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs), with PCV7 being introduced in 2009 and the more advanced PCV13 emerging in 20113. PCVs have had a resounding impact, and have averted as many as 175 million cases and 624,000 deaths associated with pneumococcal disease4. While statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO) confirm that medical interventions such as vaccinations are needed to tackle the plight of preventable diseases such as pneumonia, more needs to be done, particularly when considering that over 740,180 children died from pneumonia in 2019. The disease remains the single most infectious cause of mortality in children worldwide and accounts for up to 14% of deaths in children under the age of five5. Reducing disease incidence in South Africa The South African Department of Health’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) recommends that children receive three doses of the PCV13 vaccine6 to protect against potentially serious and even deadly infections7 caused by pneumococcal disease. This includes Streptococcus pneumoniae – a leading cause of bacterial pneumonia and Invasive Pneumococcal Disease (IPD) such as pneumococcal meningitis8. While PCV7 had little effect on lowering meningitis incidence, global studies have indicated that PCV13 has proven effective in reducing the impact of this disease by as much as 48%9. When considering the burden of pneumococcal disease in children between 0 and 59 months, the number of infected children with pneumococcal disease drastically declined from 107,600 cases per year between 2005 and 2008 to an estimated 41,800 between 2012 and 2013. While several interventions such as HIV care and prevention initiatives were in place during this time, this reduction can be largely attributed to the introduction of effective PCV medications10. More needs to be done to increase childhood immunisation in SA Vaccines save lives, and the repurposing of Clairwood Hospital in Durban is a good example of this. Once a healthcare facility that dealt primarily with infectious diseases, the hospital has had to adapt its practices in recent years as infectious disease wards remained empty. South Africa’s immunisation coverage rate is lower than the 90% coverage rate set forth by the Global Vaccine Action Plan11, with the country recording 83.9% in 2020, according to the EPI National Coverage Survey Report 202012. While these figures are up from the 81.9% recorded in the 2018/2019 period12, more needs to be done to increase South Africa’s childhood immunisation rate to prevent future disease outbreaks13. What’s holding South Africa back? While there are several factors that lead to low immunisation coverage rates, including the impact of COVID-1914, the Academy of Science of South Africa’s Root Causes of Low Vaccination Coverage and Under-Immunisation in Sub-Saharan Africa consensus study report suggests that the overarching reasons include education, low trust, difficulties in accessing reliable immunisation services, and poor vaccine stock availability15. As such, Community Healthcare Workers (HCWs) need to be more involved in the mission of the EPI programme as they are instrumental in raising awareness of the dilemma and driving educational community-based vaccination campaigns12. While South Africa’s EPI is successful, there continue to be challenges related to human resources capacity. Apart from the real-time collection, collation and analysis of data, the programme needs to invest in a robust health facility network and community-based interventions to drive immunisation coverage across all districts in the country, including tapping into the power of mainstream and social media to do so12. The Global Alliance for Vaccines Initiative (GAVI) has also come to the party to provide access to vaccines for children in low-income countries, and to date, has helped with the vaccination of nearly half of the world’s children against deadly and debilitating infectious diseases16. Since South Africa falls under the middle-income category, it does not have access to the subsidized vaccine benefits of its low-income counterparts. However, manufacturing affordable vaccines locally will be greatly beneficial to the country, offering several advantages. The many benefits of local vaccine manufacturing Manufacturing vaccines locally will increase South Africa’s health security, ensuring a seamless and adequate supply of vaccines for its citizens. It will also stimulate the economy by increasing the GDP, creating additional employment opportunities and growing the local sector’s technological expertise17. Manufacturing vaccines locally will reduce the country’s dependency on importation and reliance on foreign trade, and make life-saving vaccine interventions more affordable to meet South Africa’s needs17. Notably, the Biovac Institute and other local manufacturers have been instrumental in the packaging and manufacturing of vaccines to enable the country to respond to regional epidemics and vaccine-preventable diseases. As a result of a partnership with the government, the ongoing success of the institute is key to the provision of affordable vaccines for national health management and vaccine security18. The benefits of local vaccine manufacturing are plentiful and will continue to ensure that, apart from the economic benefits, more South African children will have access to affordable interventions that will ensure they live healthy and productive lives, and become integral members of our future society. References: 1. Immunization against vaccine-preventable diseases is essential to protect children [Internet]. [cited 2022 Jun 19]. Available from: https://www.unicef.org/southafrica/stories/immunization-against-vaccine-preventable-diseases-essential-protect-children 2. dev-site. 8 Diseases (Almost) Eradicated from Existence Thanks to Vaccines [Internet]. Makati Medical Center. 2021 [cited 2022 Jun 21]. Available from: https://www.makatimed.net.ph/blogs/8-diseases-almost-eradicated-from-existence-thanks-to-vaccines/ 3. Kleynhans J, Tempia S, Shioda K, von Gottberg A, Weinberger DM, Cohen C. Estimated impact of the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine on pneumonia mortality in South Africa, 1999 through 2016: An ecological modelling study. PLoS Med. 2021 Feb 16;18(2):e1003537. 4. Ten year public

August 3, 2022

SUMMER GETS HOTTER WITH NEW CLIP AND POSTER FOR “LEGO® STAR WARS SUMMER VACATION,” PREMIERING AUGUST 5, 2022, EXCLUSIVELY ON DISNEY+

All-New Animated Special from Lucasfilm and the LEGO Group Features the Voices of “Weird Al” Yankovic, Yvette Nicole Brown, Kelly Marie Tran, Anthony Daniels, Billy Dee Williams, and Returning Cast Members from Previous LEGO Star Wars Specials Summer just got hotter with the arrival of a new clip and the poster for “LEGO® Star Wars Summer Vacation,” the all-new animated special from Lucasfilm and the LEGO Group premiering August 5, 2022, exclusively on Disney+. The clip, which debuted yesterday at LEGO’s San Diego Comic-Con panel, and the all-new poster, highlight the newest entry in the popular signature branded cross-saga storytelling series which is set shortly after the events of “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” and features the voices of “Weird Al” Yankovic, Yvette Nicole Brown, Kelly Marie Tran, Anthony Daniels, Billy Dee Williams, and returning cast members from previous “LEGO Star Wars” specials. Looking for a much-needed break from stormtroopers and TIE fighters, Finn arranges a surprise vacation for his friends Rey, Poe, Rose, Chewie, BB-8, R2-D2, and C-3PO, aboard the ultra-luxurious Galactic Starcruiser, the Halcyon. But Finn’s plan to have one last hurrah together quickly goes awry when he’s separated from the group. While searching for his friends, he encounters three Force ghosts: Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker, and Leia Organa, who each share their own unexpected stories of vacations gone wrong, helping him to understand that holidays are about more than just having fun. “LEGO Star Wars Summer Vacation” features the voices of: “Weird Al” Yankovic as Vic Vankoh; Yvette Nicole Brown as Colvett Valeria; Thomas Lennon as Wick Cooper; Paul F. Tompkins as Rad; Dee Bradley Baker as Boba Fett; Ashly Burch as the Tour Droid; Kyliegh Curran as Sidero; Anthony Daniels as C-3PO; Trevor Devall as Emperor Palpatine; Allie Feder as Sy Snootles; Jake Green as Poe Dameron; Matt Lanter as Anakin Skywalker; Ross Marquand as Han Solo; Omar Miller as Finn; Kevin Michael Richardson as Jabba the Hutt; Matt Sloan as Darth Vader; James Arnold Taylor as Obi-Wan Kenobi; Kelly Marie Tran as Rose; Helen Sadler as Rey Skywalker; Billy Dee Williams as Lando (Holovid); Matthew Wood as Ben Solo; and Shelby Young as Leia Organa. David Shayne is writer and executive producer, and the director is Ken Cunningham. James Waugh, Josh Rimes, Jacqui Lopez, Jill Wilfert, Jason Cosler, Keith Malone, and Jennifer Twiner Mccarron are executive producers. Produced in collaboration with Atomic Cartoons.

August 3, 2022

Turn leftovers into tasty toddler suppers

With a little culinary creativity, last night’sleftovers can be transformed into a quick and easy supper for your little one. These recipes will help you make tasty suppers in a flash – and help you cut back on food waste (and your grocery spend) too. It’s a win-win for everyone! CREAMY TUNA PIE This dinner is so delicious and easy, it is worth cooking a little extra mash each time you make it so that you have leftovers for this toddler-friendly fish pie. We used Squish 100% Mixed Vegetable Puree, but it will be as yummy with Squish 100% Butternut + Carrot. Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees allow you to conveniently add natural goodness to your toddler’s mealtimes. They’re made using quality fresh fruit and veg and contain no preservatives, colourants or flavouring, so they’re as good as homemade, just minus the fuss! Ingredients 1 cup mashed potato 1 x 110 ml Squish 100% Mixed Vegetable Puree 1 x tin tuna, drained 2 Tbsp milk 1 Tbsp grated cheddar, for topping Method Stir drained tuna, and Squish Puree into leftover mashed potato, mixing gently. Add milk to make the mixture more creamy. Place mixture in ramekins and top with grated cheese. Bake in the oven at 180° for around 15 minutes until heated through. TIP: Got a little leftover cooked chicken in the fridge too? Switch the tuna for shredded chicken and follow the same method. VEGGIE SAUCE Leftover cooked pasta loves this sauce – and so does mash! This is also a great way to use up the leftover Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees you may have in your fridge too. You can use a mixture of them to make up the required amount – this recipe is forgiving so you could use a little more or a little less too. All Squish Purees come with a convenient resealable screw-on lid, so you don’t need to waste a drop. Just use what you need then pop it back in the fridge for later. Ingredients 2 Tbsp olive oil 1 medium onion, finely chopped 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 x 410 g can Rhodes Quality Chopped & Peeled Tomatoes 1 x 110ml Squish 100% Butternut + Carrot Salt and pepper 2 Tbsp basil leaves, finely chopped Method Heat the oil in a medium saucepan. Add the onions and fry until softened. Add the garlic and fry for a few minutes more. Add tomatoes and Squish Puree. Simmer over low heat for 15 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat, season to taste and stir in the fresh basil. TIP: This sauce freezes well. Make a batch and divide into meal-size portions so you can just grab out of the freezer and use when needed. CHICKEN AND VEG RICE The convenience of Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Puree means you can always serve your child a nutritious meal, no matter how little time you have – especially when you have other tasty leftovers on hand too! This recipe uses cooked rice and chicken. Ingredients 1 cup cooked rice 100g chicken, shredded 1 x 110 ml pouch Squish 100% Apple, Sweet Potato + Sweetcorn Method Heat a small saucepan over medium heat, adding a dollop of butter. Add rice and chicken and fry briefly. Add Squish Puree and continue stirring until heated through. TIP: Having ready-cooked chicken breasts in your fridge is the key to easy suppers. Steam a batch on Sunday night so you’re prepped for the week. You can add to leftover rice, mash or pasta and stir through a pouch of Squish 100% Veg Puree.

August 3, 2022

DISNEY AND PIXAR’S “LIGHTYEAR” BLASTS ONTO DISNEY+

Today, Disney+ revealed plans to stream Disney and Pixar’s “Lightyear” beginning August 3, 2022. A new spot celebrating the upcoming launch is now available. “’Lightyear’ looks amazing on the big screen, of course, but we are so excited to bring it to Disney+,” said Angus MacLane, who helmed the film. “We devoted years of our lives to this film and we are so proud of it. We want to share it with as many people as possible. Disney+ not only gives more fans an opportunity to see ‘Lightyear,’ it gives us all the means to see it again and again.” ABOUT THE MOVIE A sci-fi action adventure and the definitive origin story of Buzz Lightyear, the hero who inspired the toy, “Lightyear” follows the legendary Space Ranger after he’s marooned on a hostile planet 4.2 million light-years from Earth alongside his commander and their crew. As Buzz tries to find a way back home through space and time, he’s joined by a group of ambitious recruits and his charming robot companion cat, Sox. Complicating matters and threatening the mission is the arrival of Zurg, an imposing presence with an army of ruthless robots and a mysterious agenda. The film features the voices of Chris Evans as accomplished Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear, Uzo Aduba as his commander and best friend Alisha Hawthorne and Peter Sohn as Sox. Keke Palmer, Taika Waititi and Dale Soules lend their voices to the Junior Zap Patrol’s Izzy Hawthorne, Mo Morrison and Darby Steel, respectively, and James Brolin can be heard as the enigmatic Zurg. The voice cast also includes Mary McDonald-Lewis as onboard computer I.V.A.N., Isiah Whitlock Jr. as Commander Burnside, Efren Ramirez as Airman Díaz, Keira Hairston as Young Izzy and Tim Peake as Tim/Mission Control (in U.K. release). Directed by Angus MacLane (co-director “Finding Dory”), produced by Galyn Susman (“Toy Story That Time Forgot”) and featuring a score by award-winning composer Michael Giacchino (“The Batman,” “Up”), Disney and Pixar’s “Lightyear” is in theaters now. The film streams on Disney+ beginning Aug. 3, 2022.

August 1, 2022

Philips Avent support and empower parents to feed their babies anytime, anywhere

Two thirds of moms would be more confident and comfortable breastfeeding in public if it was considered ‘normal’* Let’s support and empower parents to feed their baby anytime, anywhere. Breastfeeding has been around for as long as we have existed. We are also more aware than ever of the health benefits of it for baby and mom. And yet, in many parts of the world, there are still a lot of taboos around breastfeeding – signalling a need for more support for moms and dads to parent and feed their way. This World Breastfeeding Week (1 – 7 August), to understand some of the challenges breastfeeding parents face when feeding their babies, and support and empower them to parent and feed their way, Philips asked more than 6000 women across 25 countries* what holds them back from breastfeeding their babies anytime and anywhere they want to. Breastfeeding in public – still not considered ‘normal’ The results show there’s still work to be done to support and empower moms in their choice to breastfeed in public. Around two thirds (66%) of moms globally say they would feel more confident and comfortable breastfeeding in public if it was considered ‘normal’. Feeling embarrassed or uncomfortable to breastfeed around people they don’t know, is the key reason (52%) of women feel to hesitant to consider breastfeeding in public. The results also reveal many moms (40%) would not consider pumping in public, rising to 69% in France and dropping to 17% in the USA. The results vary across cultures and countries and breastfeeding and expressing in public is not something every mom wishes to do. At Philips, we recognise every breastfeeding journey is unique and personal to parent and baby; there is no right or wrong way. Parents may choose to feed their baby directly from mom’s breast, with expressed milk, or both, or between formula bottles. Some may choose to feed in public or in the comfort of their own home. Whatever their choice, Philips wants to empower and support all parents with solutions that support each of these choices. Moms should feel they have the ‘right’ Added to this, many moms say greater overall support from others would help them feel more comfortable breastfeeding in public, with this being true for almost a third of moms in the USA (33%), Spain and Mexico (both 30%). Meanwhile, greater partner support would help for many in Colombia (41%), Mexico and Chile (both 40%), compared to fewer in Austria (17%) and Germany (13%). These figures go a long way to indicate many moms would love to see society’s overall understanding and perception of breastfeeding shift from something inappropriate or unnecessary to one of the most natural, fundamental acts of care in the world. This shift can only happen by educating more people on the value of breastfeeding, starting more conversations about it and championing parents’ choices to feed however best suits them – something that lies in all of our hands. The results go on to reveal that while the biggest motivator for moms globally to breastfeed in public is being able to feed their babies as soon as they need it (59%), almost half (47%) globally say having the ‘right’ to breastfeed in public would also motivate them to do so, rising to 57% in Austria and Canada and dropping to 31% in South-Africa. Only through greater breastfeeding awareness, encouraging breastfeeding policy change, and creating more supportive communities around moms that empower them to feed their way, will more people start to recognise and promote breastfeeding as the basic human right it actually is. Moms deserve greater support Added to this, many moms say greater overall support from others would help them feel more comfortable breastfeeding in public, with this being true for almost a third of moms in the USA (33%), Spain and Mexico (both 30%). Meanwhile, greater partner support would help for many in Colombia (41%), Mexico and Chile (both 40%), compared to fewer in Austria (17%) and Germany (13%). These figures go a long way to indicate many moms would love to see society’s overall understanding and perception of breastfeeding shift from something inappropriate or unnecessary to one of the most natural, fundamental acts of care in the world. This shift can only happen by educating more people on the value of breastfeeding, starting more conversations about it and championing parents’ choices to feed however best suits them – something that lies in all of our hands. BreastStories: supporting and empowering parents Through our online platform, BreastStories, parents from around the world can share their breastfeeding stories, tips, and tricks via Instagram and Facebook, as well as find breastfeeding information and advice from healthcare professionals. By downloading the Philips Baby+ app on their mobile device, parents can also log feeding information, as well as track their baby’s development, such as their weight, height, and head circumference during the first year. Breastfeeding can be wonderful but it’s not always straightforward or easy for moms. Feeling comfortable is key to a positive breastfeeding experience as it makes it easier to release milk. Let’s unite in supporting parents to parent their way and empower them to feed their baby anytime, anywhere. We believe parents should feel supported and empowered throughout this journey, and parent their way. This includes feeding their baby and expressing milk whenever and wherever they need and want to – in restaurants and bars and in parks and on public transport. That’s why, during this World Breastfeeding Week, we are highlighting the conversation around breastfeeding by creating a supportive online community for moms and dads, so they never feel alone in their experiences. There’s great power in talking about your experiences with healthcare professionals, lactation consultants, at antenatal classes, via apps and online communities, and with family, friends, and other moms. Through our online platform, BreastStories, parents from around the world can share their breastfeeding stories, tips, and tricks via Instagram and Facebook, as well as find breastfeeding information and

August 1, 2022

Hair trends to try this winter

Every season sees an influx of new hair trends that dominate the runways, red carpets and social media, offering endless inspiration for those of us who are keen to try something new. Winter 2022 is no different, except this year, we’re seeing the biggest trends coming from celebrities. After two years of Covid-19, the start of 2022 saw in-person awards ceremonies back in action, giving our favourite A-listers plenty of opportunity to show off new post-pandemic looks. Plus, new seasons of some of our favourite shows (hello, Stranger Things!) have also played a major part in shaping Winter 2022 hair trends. This winter, we’re seeing a major revival of past trends, giving 2022 real nostalgic energy. Think hairstyles from the 70s, 80s and 90s, but with a modern twist. Keen to try something new? Get ready to add these trends to your inspiration folder: Natural textures The inspo: Rihanna and Tracee Ellis Ross Texture is big this winter, and if you’ve thought about going natural, now is the time. Whether your hair is naturally curly, coily or wavy, it’s time to ditch the straightener and embrace your natural texture. Reminiscent of the 80s, it’s all about celebrating curls, coils and afros. Filled with the very best ingredients that nature has to offer, The Perfect Hair products are the ideal companion for your natural hair. The Mango & Marula range is specially designed for curly hair, adding and locking in plenty of moisture while nourishing, softening and adding shine. Try the Mango & Marula Silky Soft Shampoo (R100.00) and Detangling Deep Conditioner(R100.00) for an intense moisture boost. Copper brunette The inspo: Zendaya and Kendall Jenner Also referred to as “luxury copper”, this is the hottest hair colour of the season, and finally, it’s a colour totally attainable by brunettes! Warm and full-bodied, the colour is rich and luxurious – just what the chilly season calls for. Prolong the life of your copper colour and maintain its vibrancy with Marc Anthony Complete Color Care nourishing Hair Mask (R189.95), a nourishing hair mask that reduces colour fade, locking in nutrients and protecting against environmental damage, and Marc Anthony Complete Color Care Colour Bond Instant Colour Sealer (R179.95), a treatment products that seals the cuticles to lock in moisture, adds shine and prevents colour fade. Fringe benefits The inspo: Zoë Kravitz and Dua Lipa Fringes or bangs are a hit every winter, likely because they’re more manageable in colder weather. The two most popular fringe styles this winter are the blunt bang (straight-cut and thick) and the French fringe, a soft cut with rounded, textured ends that blend with the rest of your haircut. This colour won’t require a lot of maintenance, but you’ll need to switch up your hair care regime to ensure you use colour-protecting products to increase its longevity. Chances are your fringe will be heat-styled a lot more often than the rest of your hair, so it’s essential to spritz on a product to protect it from heat damage. Try Hask Biotin Boost 5-In-1 Leave-In Spray (R160.00) which thickens and adds body, provides thermal protection, controls frizz, adds shine, prevents breakage, and detangles and moisturises. Your fringe will also need to be washed more regularly than the rest of your hair. If you’re pressed for time, we recommend a few spritzes of Colab Dry Shampoo (R99.95). Not only does it leave hair looking and feeling fresh (without the dreaded white residue) but dry shampoo is known to add volume, too. Layers The inspo: Lily Collins and Georgia May Jagger 90s-era layers are back with a vengeance. Bouncy and fresh when styled and feminine and soft when left to air dry, this French-inspired style frames the face and adds dimension and texture to your cut. Plus, this is the perfect style for anyone wanting a new look while maintaining the length of their hair. Try OGX Coconut Miracle Oil Air Dry Cream (R215.00). This air-dry cream is ideal for style on the go – simply work through damp hair to reduce frizz as hair dries naturally for beautiful heat-free style. Sleek ponytail The inspo: Bella Hadid A versatile style for straight hair, the sleek ponytail is easy to wear, any time of the day or night. The key to perfecting it, is to use a fine-tooth comb to smooth out any bumps once your hair’s been pulled back. Use a gel or mousse over the top for a smooth finish and to flatten any flyaways. The Evolve Triple Edge Styler (R129.95) is a must-have for smoothing your hair and taming flyaways. This 3-in-1 pure boar brush can be used for smoothing and styling edges or sleek ponies, the fine-tooth comb can be used for shaping edges and the rat tail can be used to part your hair. Smooth edges and flyaways with Cantu Shea Butter Edge Gel Stay Gel (R150.00). It conditions and smooths frizz and flyaway hair for shiny, sleek styles with a long-lasting, flake-free hold. For a sculpted finish, we recommend applying a little bit of Cantu Shea Butter Styling Gel with Jamaican Black Castor Oil (R110.00). It smoothes frizz, protects against humidity and holds hair in place without it drying or flaking. The classic bob The inspo: Alexa Chung and Dakota Johnson The great thing about a bob is that it works with just about any hair type and texture. Cool and understated, it’s a youthful and fun hairstyle that never dates. The key to a modern bob is to not over style it, but rather to work with your natural hair texture. If your hair is wavy or curly, embrace the shape to keep it looking somewhat “undone”. If your hair is straight, allow it to air dry to get some movement and prevent it from looking too rigid. For a wavy or curly bob full of volume, we recommend Umberto Giannini Curl Whip Curl Activating Mousse (R150.00). This mousse helps you achieve weightless, flexible, frizz-free curls and waves with extra definition.

August 1, 2022

DINO RANCH

Being a rancher is for every-Dino-one Head down to the Dino Ranch and shout your loudest “yee-hah!” to the Cassidy family, where there’s never-stop work to be done to keep your favourite dinosaur sanctuary spick and span. Follow the stories of Clover, the loyal young brontosaurus who learns the value of his work as a dino doctor and how Rebel, a baby stegosaur, struggles to fit in with her peers. You’ll be able to rally with the Ranchers this month as they protect their homestead and dino friends from troublesome prospectors. There are always new and exciting adventures on this ranch so remember to tune in to Boomerang, where you’ll find yourself all kinds of life lessons that are real gems! PREMIERE: Monday, 01 August 2022 TUNE IN: Everyday @ 06:45 CAT Also available on DStv Catch Up

July 29, 2022

Melcura Balm and babies

Medika SA, creator of the brand Melcura™ known for the medical-grade honey-based range, Melcura™, is part of The Southern Medical Group, a leader in medical devices. We are a proudly South African company that started in 2002 with expertise in advanced wound care products. Our Melcura™ products are the go-to products in trauma and burn wards within South Africa. Our Melcura™ HoneyBalm is a skin-protecting ointment that will soothe and moisturise baby’s delicate skin and help to treat diaper rash on little bums, minor bites and itches, cradle cap, and other minor skin irritations. It can treat chins from drool at teething time and little scratches from those tiny finger nails. It will even work wonders on mommy’s cracked nipples or dry hands from all the constant hand washing between nappy changes. Formulated with medical-grade Fynbos honey, avocado oil, and beeswax to nourish and protect sensitive skin, this product will treat skin rashes, irritations caused by eczema and dermatitis, sunburn, small skin wounds, chapped skin, and nappy rash. Benefits of Melcura™ HoneyBalm The medical-grade honey has wound-healing properties The avocado oil is moisturizing and nourishing and is quickly absorbed into the skin The beeswax forms a protective barrier layer on the skin and locks in moisture The product moisturises and helps to replenish and protect dry, damaged, chapped, cracked and irritated skin Soothes dry skin and promotes healing, keeping skin soft and supple How to use Apply liberally for nappy rash, cradle cap and dry and irritated skin areas Caution Always do a patch test first to ensure your baby does not react to any of the ingredients however unlikely this may be Discontinue use if reaction occurs Did you know? A baby’s skin is more susceptible to chemicals, artificial fragrances and other nasties found in conventional baby products and may cause a reaction. We only use 100% safe ingredients in our Melcura™ HoneyBalm, to ensure your baby’s skin stays soft, smooth and allergy-free. The medical-grade Fynbos honey is specially treated to sterilise the honey, but keep the healing enzymes active. This is to make sure no bacterial spores or pollen and other contaminants are introduced onto your baby’s skin or wound which can cause infection. The formulation is alcohol-free, fragrance-free and free from petroleum, mineral

July 26, 2022

WHY CHILDREN’S GAMING DOES HAVE BENEFITS

The warnings about letting your children become video and digital gamers can be overwhelming. The list of risks is a litany of parental fears – addiction, social withdrawal and isolation; stunting in the development of empathy and numbness in the face of violence; disinterest in healthy enjoyments such as playing with a variety of toys, reading books and physical activities. In response to the pervasive fearmongering, some parents ban gaming outright, others uneasily make it possible but keep fretting about whether they’ve done the right thing. Gaming has been around long enough for there to be a substantial body of research that points to an array of benefits and debunks many of the common myths about the negative impacts on children and youth. Rachelle Best, CEO and Founder of FYI play it safe, an AI-powered monitoring app used by families across the world to keep kids safer online, says, “As with anything in life, gaming is all about balance and how you manage this possible form of skills-building entertainment. Age-appropriate gaming for children can also be a way of making social connections rather than fostering isolation. Parents setting and enforcing sensible ground rules for safe, family-centred gaming can ensure that their child can get the best out of it.” Some of the important benefits of gaming include: Brainpower – There are many studies that show that gamers may experience an array of cognitive boosts when it comes to developing visual-spatial skills, logical thinking skills, problem-solving capacities and eye-hand co-ordination. US Researcher and author of Free to Learn, Dr Peter Gray unpacks a range of this research on cognitive impacts in three articles published by Psychology Today, which you can find linked here. Improved basic mental processes – Gamers shine when it comes to attention, memory, perception and decision-making thanks to video games that require them to make rapid decisions, move fast, keep track of multiple of things and retain a lot of information at once. Social inclusivity – The gaming world is undeniably social. It is estimated that there are more than 3.2 billion gamers in the world. Multi-player games are amongst the most popular. For some kids, gaming opens up to them a community where they can feel like they really belong. It may give them an opener to make in-person friends with other gamers at their school or in their neighbourhood, as well as give them the opportunity to enjoy supportive online connections. Instead of being a solitary activity for your child, you can consider gaming together as family. This helps parents keep track of the games your child plays, who they interact with online and the time they spend gaming. The feel-good factor – Gaming is fun; it can enable the release of endorphins and promote physical and mental relaxation. The key here is gaming in moderation and that there’s a balance with other off-screen activities. Digital literacy – Our kids are growing up in a world with a significant and ever-expanding digital realm. They will make their living one day in an even more digital-driven world. Gaming technologies such as virtual reality and augmented reality are already being incorporated in many other aspects of life and commerce. Gaming elements are also increasingly being used in both school and tertiary educational curricula. Children who game are getting a particular and valuable experience as digital citizens. All of these benefits of gaming are not to say that there are not real risks. One of most common parental fears is that gaming can certainly open the virtual doors to your child being exposed to cyberbullying and online predators. If your child does game then you do need to ensure that you are aware of who your child is engaging with, and that they understand the difference between the actual person and the avatar representing them. Parents also need to set the limits and ensure their child is gaming in moderation. Warning signs are social withdrawal, secretive behaviour and mood swings when they have to stop gaming and transition to other activities. Rachelle says, “The question for parents of a child who wants to start gaming isn’t should I or shouldn’t I let my kid play video games? But rather, how can I enable safe and responsible gaming so that they can experience the benefits? It’s important that the games you provide or allow are age-appropriate; that the screen time limits are adhered to, that gaming doesn’t lead to sleep deprivation or skipped meals, and that you have safety measures in place if your child is playing multi-player games and interacting in chatrooms.” As a mother of a teen, and the provider of an advanced tool in the online safety ecosystem, Rachelle is acutely aware of risks of children encountering cyberbullying, inappropriate content and online predators. “These, of course, are dangers that any child or teen with a connected device might face, not just those who are gaming,” she says. “It’s important for parents to take a healthy interest in their children’s gaming activities and keep up to date by having ongoing, open conversations with them about what they enjoy, how they are doing and who they are interacting with. Your child needs to know about the risks of participating in in-game chats or interacting on gaming related messaging platforms, and together you need to agree on the best ways to keep them safe while gaming.” Drawing on AI and ML, Rachelle and her team developed the FYI play it safe app which monitors all the content of children’s online activity across mobile devices in a non-intrusive way. All apps and online interactions are monitored, including in-game chats, and FYI play it safe provides parents with alerts of potential signs of danger. New accounts and apps are included by default without the need for your child’s account credentials. Yet, the app is not spyware and it is not clandestine. Instead, it provides parents and children with the opportunity to mutually agree on the best way to stay safe in

July 26, 2022

Nutritious packed snacks and lunches for a day out with your toddler

With a little careful planning – and an extra change of clothes! – heading off for a day out with your toddler in tow needn’t be daunting. Packing a variety of nutritious single-serve snacks and treats is essential to keep hunger at bay. These recipes are tasty and packed full of natural goodness – your little one will love them! FRUIT CRUNCHIES These treats are full of sweet fruit which means less cane sugar. We used Squish 100% Apple Fruit Puree in the recipe, but you can switch it for any flavour you choose, or use a combination of leftover Squish Purees from your fridge. All Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees have a screw-on lid, which means you can just pop the lid back on and save leftovers for later. Ingredients: 230 g (1 cup) rolled oats 60 g (½ cup) desiccated coconut or ground almonds 125 g (¾ cup) cake flour 2.5 ml (½ tsp) baking powder 1 ml (¼ tsp) bicarbonate of soda 60 g (⅓ cup) dried apricots, finely chopped 65 g (¼ cup) butter 55 g (¼ cup) brown sugar 1 x 110 ml Squish 100% Apple Fruit Puree Method: Place the oats, coconut (or nuts) and cake flour into a bowl and stir to mix. Add the baking powder and bicarbonate of soda. Add the apricots. In a small saucepan melt the butter and the sugar together. Whisk in the Squish Puree and leave to cool. Add the apple mixture to the dry ingredients and stir well until evenly blended. Press the mixture into a baking pan that has been sprayed with non-stick spray and lined with baking paper. Bake in an oven that has been preheated to 160°C for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and slice into bars in the pan. Leave to cool. TIP: Use a frozen Squish 100% Pressed Fruit Juice as an ‘ice pack’ in your cooler bag. Your little one can drink it later in the day once it has melted. CREAM CHEESE DIP AND CRUDITÉS This snack is so quick and easy to make and travels well. Plus, it provides a perfect combo of protein, dairy and healthy fruit and veg. Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Purees are made from quality fresh fruit and veg and are free from preservatives, colourants and flavouring, which means they’re just like homemade. And there is no added sugar or starch. Ingredients ½ cup plain cream cheese ½ pouch of Squish 100% Fruit and Veg Puree Fresh veggies or fruit, for dipping. Method Place cream cheese in a bowl and add your child’s favourite Squish 100% Fruit + Vegetable Puree. Stir well to blended. Serve with washed and cut fruit and vegetables. TIP: Switch the cream cheese for cottage cheese for a different taste and texture. POTATO POPS These filling and delicious pops are mess-free and easy to serve. You can switch the regular potatoes for sweet potato if you like. Ingredient 500 ml (2 cups) mashed potato 1 x 110 ml Squish 100% Veg Butternut + Carrot Puree 250 ml (1 cup) grated cheddar cheese 1 egg 295 ml (1 cup + 3 Tbsp) breadcrumbs salt and freshly cracked black pepper 30 ml (2 Tbsp) sunflower oil Method In a large bowl, combine the mash, Squish Puree and cheese. Add the egg and 45 ml (3 Tbsp) of breadcrumbs and mix well. Season to taste. Shape into balls and roll in breadcrumbs. Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan. Fry the potato pops in batches for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown. These can also be cooked on a baking tray in the oven at 180°C for 15 minutes. TIP: These pops freeze well. Make a double batch and keep a stash in the freezer for lunchbox fillers. For more delicious delicious toddler-friendly recipes, visit www.squish.co.za

July 25, 2022

6 Simple ways to live greener (and use more Earth-friendly products!)

Let’s face it – even if you’ve implemented greener habits in your home, we can all do more when it comes to protecting the environment. We can all do better at recycling, reusing, supporting local businesses, and making greener choices. Some may argue that in reality, we need major corporations, the public and private sectors as well as government on board for real, transformational change. And while that’s true, we as individuals are not powerless. When united with other like-minded individuals, we can create a movement that is powerful and impactful. While it’s important to support larger initiatives that work with government and corporations to initiate change on a large scale, it’s also important that each and every one of us do our bit to make a positive difference. And guess what? It’s much easier than you might think! What can we do in our day to day lives to make a positive change to the environment? Recycle Glass, paper, cardboard and aluminium are all recyclable materials. Keep a separate bin in which you throw your empty glass bottles, tins, old newspapers and cardboard packaging, and drop it off at your local recycling depot. Many types of plastics are also recyclable. Check the back of plastic items like milk bottles, toiletry packaging and food packaging. If it has the recycling symbol on it (three arrows pointing towards each other in a triangular shape, also known as the “chasing arrows”), you can add it to your other recyclables. Choose cruelty-free products Testing household and cosmetic products on animals is cruel and unnecessary. Be part of a positive change by actively supporting cruelty-free brands. Check product packaging for a cruelty-free stamp, Beauty Without Cruelty endorsement or PETA-approved logo. Because the demand has increased, more and more cosmetic companies are going cruelty-free. Whether it’s makeup, skincare or haircare, there is a variety of cruelty-free options available for you to try. wet n wild prides themselves on offering fantastic quality, cruelty-free makeup products at affordable prices. Every item under the brand is 100% cruelty-free and they are endorsed by PETA. In fact, a lot of their products are vegan too. Shop wet n wild makeup at Clicks online here. For a cruelty-free haircare range rich in high quality botanical ingredients, try Hask. Formulated without nasties like sulphates, parabens, phthalates and gluten, Hask is a favourite among hairstylists on films and TV show sets! Shop Hask haircare at Clicks online here and at Dis-Chem online here. Cruelty-free skincare on your mind? NIP+FAB offers regime-based skincare solutions and products of purpose to help you achieve your clearest, healthiest and most radiant skin yet. And best of all, they’re cruelty-free and vegan! Shop NIP+FAB skincare on Dis-Chem online here. Support local brands We will always have our favourite international brands that we love and support, but one of the best things you can do for the local economy and the environment, is to support locally-produced products too. Not only does this support local entrepreneurs and drive job creation, but it also means that your products travelled a shorter distance (thus using less fuel!). Local haircare brand The Perfect Hair was created by a local female entrepreneur, and has grown from a small start-up to a big player in the natural haircare market. Not only are the products filled with nourishing natural ingredients and effective at treating and maintaining healthy hair, but they’re also affordable. Shop The Perfect Hair haircare products at selected Clicks, Spar, Checkers; Pick ‘n Pay & Foschini stores as well as Take-A-Lot. Say no to single use plastic Not all plastics are bad. Many are designed to last. We manufacture furniture, appliances, homeware and industrial products from plastic instead of valuable natural resources. Many types of plastics are recyclable. But one of the biggest challenges facing the planet is single use plastic. This is the type of plastic that gets thrown away after one use. Things like drinking straws, plastic packets and food packaging, that are only used once, or used for a very short period of time, is considered a single use plastic. It takes about 1000 years for plastic to decompose, and every year the world produces around 380 million metric tons of plastic. Limit your use of single use plastic whenever possible. Use a refillable water bottle and fill it at the tap instead of buying water, take fabric bags for shopping, avoid using straws and balloons and choose glass alternatives whenever possible. Embrace vegan options We can’t all follow vegan diets, but we can all do our part to consume less animal products. Start small by introducing “Meat-free Monday” in your home. Try plant-based food alternatives and introduce them into your eating plan gradually. Before you know it, you’ll be consuming a lot less animal products. Next up is cosmetic, personal care and household items – switch to vegan alternatives, it’s a lot simpler than you think. While not all brands are 100% vegan, a lot of them have vegan options within their ranges. wet n wild has a wide variety of vegan makeup products within their ranges. Umberto Giannini, an award-winning haircare brand from the UK offers transformational haircare products for every hair type, and you’re in luck, as the entire range is 100% vegan! Now you can get the hair of your dreams without the guilt. Shop Umberto Giannini haircare at Clicks online here. Say yes to sustainability When taking ingredients from nature, it’s important to give back to the environment, to ensure the supply runs strong. Sustainability is key when sourcing natural and organic material. Support brands that do their part to manufacture products containing ethically and sustainably sourced ingredients. EcoTools manufacture exceptional makeup brushes and sponges from recycled and renewable materials like bamboo and eco-foam. They’re a sustainable alternative to the plastic makeup brushes and synthetic sponges we find on the market. Shop EcoTools at Clicks online here. And what about botanical ingredients? Curls in Bloom, a local haircare brand, knows a thing or two about two about sustainable ingredient sourcing. They source their precious botanical ingredients from is a small pro-active farming community,

July 22, 2022

5 indications that your period is not ‘normal’

Every girl at a certain time in their life will start her journey into womanhood through a natural and necessary physical development known as menstruation. Sadly, despite this being a normal and natural phenomenon that every female experiences monthly until often in their 50s – menstruation and periods have a pretty negative stigma attached to them. This stigma often results in periods not being spoken about openly and a further unfortunate reality of many women being misinformed or simply clueless about what constitutes a ‘normal’ period. And herein lies the source of many common women’s reproductive health problems. 3Sixty Biomedicine’s CEO, Boitumelo Sebambo, shares these basic warning signs that every woman should look out for when having their menstrual cycle that could be an indication that their period is not ‘normal’ and they should seek advice from a medical practitioner. A normal period lasts four to seven days, you can start getting worried if you have periods that occur less than 21 days or more than 35 days apart If you miss three or more periods in row If your menstrual flow is much heavier or lighter than usual Severe pain during your period or between periods that interferes with normal day to day activities Unusually heavy bleeding (soaking through a sanitary pad or tampon every hour for two to three hours) or passing large clots. These abnormal period indicators can be caused by stress and underlying medical conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) that affects approximately 8 – 13% of women, and that can cause infertility in addition to hirsutism, acne, irregular periods and even hair loss. These conditions can be managed but diagnosis by a gynaecologist is important. Parents are encouraged to take their teenage girls to visit the gynaecologist and be on the lookout for irregular symptoms in their cycles to avoid long-term effects on their health. According to Sebambo, part of their mission this youth month is to help educate and empower women throughout their journey of womanhood so they can manage and overcome common women’s reproductive health conditions. “We believe that every woman’s journey matters. No matter what stage of life they are at, we want to help other South African women live quality lives uninhibited by common health issues that could be limiting to their success”. For more information about the Salome range and to be part of the conversation, visit www.salome-range.co.za. The full Salome range of products that helps to manage menstrual pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, premenstrual syndrome, infertility in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), and menopause 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

July 21, 2022

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