Toddler - Parenting Hub

Advice from the experts

Where Did All the Good Places Go? A Study of “Third Places”

May drags on. Every parent knows the feeling. Kids are locked in study mode with June exams looming. They spend their afternoons hunched over textbooks instead of running around like they’re supposed to. The weather is turning; the days feel shorter. Everyone is a little grumpy and cooped up. Nobody says it out loud, but the whole house has that end-of-term energy—restless and tired all at once. And the worst part? There is nowhere obvious to go. With the colder, rainy weather keeping everyone away from parks and beaches, the options are slim. In Joburg, Durban, and even Cape Town, “other” places to go are few, far between, and generally expensive. You’ve got the mall. You’ve got restaurants that technically allow children. You’ve got a park if you’re lucky, though it probably doesn’t have much going on. What you don’t have is that one place—the place where you can just pitch up as a family, decompress, and actually enjoy an afternoon without planning it three weeks in advance. That place has a name: The Third Place. And we’ve somehow built entire suburbs without them. The Concept of the Third Place Sociologist Ray Oldenburg named it back in 1989, but the concept is ancient. It’s simple: It’s the corner café, the public square, the library that doesn’t shush you, or the park that actually has soul. Third places are where community happens by accident. You aren’t there for a meeting or to tick off a checklist; you’re just there, and so is everyone else, and somehow that’s enough. Most of the world’s great cities are built around them. Joburg and Cape Town? Not so much. We built the highways first, then the estates, then the shopping centres. The third place was left out of the blueprint entirely, costing us that vital sense of community. What That Actually Costs Us Kids aged 8 to 14 are spending roughly 6 hours a day on their screens. Before we complain about TikTok, we have to realize that’s what happens when there is nowhere else to be. The phone isn’t the sole problem; the absence of alternatives is. May makes it worse because the pressure to be “productive” takes over. Study. Revise. Prepare. Kids who should be outside figuring out the world are instead being asked to sit still and perform. There is no release valve—no place to just be a kid for an hour before dinner. Parents feel it too. You’re managing the studying, the moods, the screen-time negotiations, and the guilt about those negotiations. You could use somewhere to sit with a coffee or a good book that doesn’t require you to be “on” the entire time. That isn’t a luxury; it’s what a functioning neighbourhood should provide. The Urban Gap As our society has urbanised, there has been an intrinsic loss of easy, cost-effective third spaces. In cities like Durban, Cape Town, and Joburg, spaces are becoming increasingly inaccessible. Our cities are no longer walkable, and any sort of activity has be.Up – Your preferred third place Indoor playparks are the perfect third space for you and your child. Our indoor facilities are designed for screen-free fun, featuring a dedicated giant maze, soft play area, multi-court, trampoline zone, and more. It is a “kids’ fun zone” that has it all. Here, children have the space to breathe, run, chat with friends, and let their imaginations run wild. Meanwhile, parents finally have a space where they can grab a coffee, have a snack at our café, or read a book—all with the peace of mind that their young ones are safe and active. Book Now Visit any of our be.UP parks today in Cresta, Gateway, or the Waterfront.

May 25, 2026

Why Emotional Safety in Young Children Is the New Literacy

A child who feels safe learns differently. Before letters, numbers, and formal instruction can truly take root, children need something more fundamental: the emotional security to explore, question, connect and participate with confidence. According to Dibber International Preschools, emotional safety is becoming one of the most important foundations of early childhood development. When children feel seen and heard, they can engage with learning and develop the confidence needed to navigate the world around them. “At Dibber, we believe emotional safety is not separate from learning – it is what makes learning possible,” says Ursula Assis, Country Director of Dibber International Preschools South Africa. “When children feel secure, they are more open to trying, speaking, listening, exploring and growing. That sense of safety shapes not only how they learn, but how they experience themselves in the learning environment.” Dibber notes that literacy in the early years cannot be viewed solely through the traditional lens of reading and writing. It also includes the ability to understand and regulate emotions, and to form healthy connections with others. In this sense, emotional literacy is becoming just as important as academic literacy in laying the foundation for later success. In a preschool environment, emotional safety is often built through small but meaningful daily experiences. A calm response to a child’s distress, routines that create predictability, and spaces where feelings are acknowledged rather than dismissed all help children feel secure. These seemingly ordinary interactions have a profound impact on how children absorb and respond to new information. “When children know they are safe, something shifts,” adds Assis. “They begin to participate more freely. They ask more questions. They recover more easily from frustration. They become more able to focus and more willing to engage. This is why emotional safety deserves to be treated as a core part of early education.” Dibber believes emotional literacy must be nurtured with intention. Children are not born knowing how to name, manage or work through feelings. They learn this through steady guidance. When children are assisted in understanding what they feel, they can communicate their needs, relate to peers, and remain engaged in learning much more easily. This is particularly important because emotional and cognitive development are closely connected. When children experience emotional insecurity or ongoing stress, their ability to focus, remember, and process information can be affected. By contrast, when they begin to understand and express their emotions, they are often better able to manage reactions, resolve conflict and participate meaningfully in group settings. For Dibber, this understanding aligns strongly with the Nordic approach to early childhood education, which places emotional development at the centre of learning rather than treating it as an added extra. Through play, storytelling, shared routines, and guided interaction, children are supported in building self-awareness, empathy, and confidence, as well as in other crucial areas of development. In the South African context, Dibber also sees a natural connection between emotional safety and the philosophy of Ubuntu. Based on the understanding that people grow through connection, care and shared respect, Ubuntu reinforces the idea that children thrive best within environments where belonging is actively nurtured. This strengthens emotional safety not as an individual achievement, but as a shared responsibility between educators, families and communities. At Dibber, this feeling of belonging is intentionally woven through daily learning experiences. Children are encouraged to care for one another, express themselves, work through conflict with support and experience their learning environment as a place where they are valued. Creating emotional safety does not require complicated systems. It begins with consistency, presence and emotionally responsive adults. When educators take time to acknowledge feelings and create space for expression through play and conversation, children begin to trust both the environment and themselves. Over time, this trust becomes the base for deeper learning, stronger relationships and more confident participation. “Emotional well-being is not a soft add-on to education,” says Assis. “It is part of the foundation. When children feel emotionally safe, they are better able to become curious, capable and connected learners. Without that foundation, learning can remain shallow and inconsistent.” Emotional safety is not simply an added advantage in the early years. It is one of the conditions that allows meaningful learning to happen at all.

May 25, 2026

Debunking Common Myths About Baby Fevers

When your baby feels a bit warmer than usual, it’s natural to worry. But most fevers aren’t something to panic about. Trusted1 by parents to fight their little one’s pain and provide relief when needed most, Panado®’s Paediatric Range of syrups are ready to work immediately.2 What Causes A Mild Temperature? A fever can feel worrying, but it’s usually a sign that your baby’s body is working just as it should to fight off infection. Remember, a fever isn’t an illness on its own.3a When your tot’s temperature rises, it usually means their immune system has sprung into action and is sending out white blood cells to fight off and destroy invading bacteria and viruses.3b Your baby’s temperature can rise for all sorts of harmless reasons. Most of the time, it’s down to common bugs like colds,4a flu,4b or ear infections.4c Sometimes it happens after the administration of a vaccine4d or simply from being a bit too warm from hot weather or too much clothing.4e Teething can also make babies feel slightly hotter than usual.4d Of course, when your little one feels uncomfortable, all you want is to help them feel better, quickly and safely. The Power To Fight Their Pain Panado® Paediatric Range contains paracetamol, 5a one of the world’s trusted medicines for relieving pain and fever and backed by over 150 years of clinical use.5b Syrups are a reliable and convenient solution for pain and fever relief, eliminating the challenges associated with suspensions.2b The medicine is already dissolved, so there’s no need to worry about uneven doses.2c This ensures accuracy every time, making life just that little bit easier for parents. For the tiniest family members, Panado® Peppermint Syrup,6 suitable from birth, combines effective relief with an improved taste7 which makes dosing smoother and more pleasant. Panado®’s paracetamol-based Strawberry Paediatric Syrup10 now in convenient single-serve sachets, offers on-the-go relief for unexpected pain and fever in babies and children. Newly launched, each sachet contains a 5 ml dose, making it easy to dose and is small enough to carry in your pocket. And for babies from three months old, Panado® Infant Drops8 – recognised as Product of the Year 2025 in the Child Health category9 – provide precise dosing and easy administration, helping parents deliver the right amount every time. For added peace of mind, parents can scan the QR code or use the online Panado® Dosage Calculator at https://panado.co.za/dosage-calculator, which adjusts the dosage based on a child’s age and weight. This extra step helps ensure the right dose every time. New Look, Same Trusted1 Relief The Panado® Strawberry Syrup10 pack makes life easier for parents, with clear pain relief guidance. It helps you spot the right option in seconds, because when your child isn’t feeling well, you want to act fast and with confidence. Part of South African Family Life for Generations Panado® works fast11 and has been passed down through generations and is trusted1 by families across the country. So next time your baby feels warm to the touch, try not to panic. WithPanado®, you’ve got trusted1 pain relief on your side, helping you comfort your baby confidently – from day one. Panado® products are available from Baby City, Pick n Pay, Checkers including Hypers, Shoprite, Clicks, Dis-Chem and independent pharmacies. For more information, visit:https://panado.co.za/ and join the conversations on Facebook. For references and legal disclaimers, visit https://panado.co.za/references. Embrace the Winter Warrior within, with Panado® As we brace ourselves for the winter months, it’s wise to be prepared. Adcock Ingram’s Winter Warriors 2026 Campaign offers a range of products aimed at combating common cold and flu symptoms. With trusted brands like Cepacol®, Panado®, Compral®, ProbiFlora™, Gummy® Vites and ViralGuard™, you can arm yourself and your loved ones against the seasonal sniffles. Approval ticket #02.20261000004802. February 2026.

May 21, 2026

Protecting Hearing from Newborn to Adulthood

We live in a country where daily life can include everything from bustling taxi ranks and construction noise to loud music and community events, and protecting your hearing is not just important; it is essential across every stage of life. The reality is that noise-induced hearing loss is permanent but often preventable with appropriate precautions. At NB Hearing and Balance, we believe that building good habits early and maintaining them over time can make a meaningful difference. Why Noise Awareness Matters Sound is measured in decibels (dB), and prolonged exposure to sounds above 85 dB can increase the risk of hearing damage. For context, busy traffic or a minibus taxi ride can reach this level, while concerts, nightclubs, and even some religious services can exceed 100 dB. Other cultural and social environments often celebrate music and community gatherings, both important aspects of life, but they can also increase the risk of long-term hearing damage if precautions are not taken. Protecting Hearing from the Very Beginning: Newborns and Infants Did you know that newborns have highly sensitive auditory systems, and early exposure to loud environments can be harmful? In addition, identifying hearing challenges early is critical for speech and language development. Tips for newborn hearing protection: Early Childhood and Primary School Years Our school environments can sometimes be noisy, and children may also be exposed to loud music through headphones, tablets, or shared devices. At this stage, education and habit-building are key. Tips for protecting young ears: This is also the stage where early signs of hearing or auditory processing difficulties may become noticeable, particularly in classroom settings. Teenagers and Young Adults: High-Risk Years Teenagers and young adults are among the most at-risk groups for noise-induced hearing damage. Social activities often include loud music, whether through headphones, clubs, festivals, or car sound systems. Often, music and nightlife are vibrant parts of youth culture, and awareness becomes especially important. Practical strategies: Temporary ringing in the ears (tinnitus) after a night out is a possible early warning sign and should not be ignored. Adults in the Workplace and Daily Life It is not unusual for many to be exposed to occupational noise, particularly in industries like mining, construction, manufacturing, and transport. Even outside of formal workplaces, daily exposure to traffic, generators during load shedding, and urban noise can add up. Workplace and lifestyle tips: Employers also have a responsibility to implement hearing conservation programmes, but personal awareness remains crucial. Older Adults: Maintaining Hearing Health Hearing changes can naturally occur with age, but lifelong noise exposure can accelerate this process. Untreated hearing loss in older adults is linked to social isolation, reduced quality of life, and even cognitive decline. The good news is that proactive care can help maintain hearing and overall wellbeing. Key considerations: A Lifelong Commitment to Hearing Health Protecting your hearing is not about avoiding sound; it is about managing it wisely. Consistent actions can have a lasting impact. Whether it is lowering the volume, wearing ear protection, or scheduling a hearing check, these steps help preserve one of our most important senses. Hearing connects us to people, to environments, and to experiences. Taking care of it should be part of everyday life. Our audiologists are here to help and have convenient locations across Cape Town. Contact us, we are here to listen.

May 12, 2026

Helping Your Child to Create Consistency

Consistency is one of the surest roads to success in any sphere of life. Being disciplined enough to show up and do the work required to achieve an aim or complete a project will all but guarantee seeing the results you want. However, where do we learn what consistency means, and how to achieve it? What are the steps to follow? Lack of consistency is one of the things many of our learners struggle with, and if we are being honest, the same holds true for us as adults. But what is consistency? What does it actually mean? Consistency, in this context, refers to regularity and reliability. Doing the work you have taken responsibility for so that others can count on you. Delivering that which you have been tasked with doing in a timely way, and at the level of quality and completeness that makes it effective. Or showing up for someone in a way they can count on. If you, as a parent, miss picking your child up from school or activities every so often, it means they can’t feel safe in the knowledge that you will be there at the agreed-upon time and place every time. Likewise, if a learner is expected to be in class every day at a certain time but they only show up randomly, their attendance is inconsistent. The question is how to instil this sense of consistency in our young learners. Simply providing the tools and the encouragement is not enough. Teaching them how to study, but not how to keep showing up every day from the first to the last day of school, is not sufficient. So how do we teach our learners to become consistent and reliable, to show up for themselves and others? One very useful method of practising and instilling consistency is the notion of taking just one small, initial step. Doing one meaningful thing, however small, that takes you in the direction of your goal. For example, let’s say we have a learner who tends to procrastinate doing homework. Often, they experience a degree of task paralysis, where they put off even getting started because the project is too overwhelming, or seems too hard, or just not really fun. One way of bypassing that feeling of paralysis is with the 5-minute rule. It’s such a negligible amount of time that your brain can’t really push back against it too much. Learners can literally set a timer for five minutes, get all their materials together and start the timer when they start working. More often than not, when the timer goes off, they will continue working because they feel that they’ve just started or that it’s not so bad once they get into the flow . EduHelp founder, Melissa van Hal, talks about breaking the task down into smaller steps to overcome resistance or overwhelm in her booklet, Proactive Steps (2025). If it still feels like too much, break it down even further. Physically move towards the area where you will do the task. Pick up one tool (like a pen or a notebook) that you will use for the task, and just interact with it. Say to yourself out loud, “I will start by doing …”. These are all small steps that get your brain ready to perform the task before you actually sit down to do it. It primes your brain to start thinking about how to do the task, instead of the difficulty of getting started on it. But how does this relate to consistency? Accomplishing tasks, doing chores, and checking items off a to-do list all trigger the brain’s reward system. When this system is activated, it releases dopamine, the brain’s feel-good hormone. This is the same hormone released through likes on social media, and game designers specifically build lots of small rewards into games to keep people playing for longer and coming back more often. When we break our tasks down into smaller, more manageable steps and execute these, the dopamine released enhances our positive feelings about the task and ourselves, prompting us to take another step. We can encourage our learners (and ourselves!) to make physical to-do lists with the steps needed, as checking items off that list adds an extra boost of self-confidence and accomplishment. However, it’s important to pay attention to when feelings of overwhelm and the desire to procrastinate come up. This can alert you to what your triggers are and help you to work around them with self-compassion. Taking the time to celebrate the small wins, giving yourself a mental pat on the back or a quiet “good job!” can be the impetus for taking one more step toward your goal. The more you practise this, the better your results will be, and the more likely you are to start your next task that little bit more easily. Consistency is not only a requirement for success in our professional lives, it also builds trust in our personal lives and shows people that they can rely on us. As such, it is one of the most vital skills to learn, and instilling it at an early age is one of the best lessons we can teach our children. If your learner is struggling with consistency, feels anxious or overwhelmed by tasks and projects, or just cannot seem to get started, reach out to us on eduhelp.co.za and let’s chat about how we can support you and your learner on their educational journey. Also, check out my related article titled Consistency vs Cramming on our blog page. With a little bit of strategy and encouragement, you can help your learner to become more consistent and boost their self-confidence to boot!

May 11, 2026

Tips on Turning Bath Time into Bonding Time with Your Baby

Bath time can be more than just part of your child’s daily routine, it can become one of the most special bonding moments between parents and their little ones. For many South African families, bath time is often seen as a practical task at the end of a busy day. However, child development experts say this everyday activity can also provide valuable opportunities for connection, comfort and learning for babies and toddlers. Bath time is a wonderful opportunity for parents to slow down, connect with their child and create a calm, nurturing environment. Approached with intention, it becomes a moment of trust, play, and communication that transforms bath time into a meaningful bonding experience. Create a calm and safe environment Before starting bath time, ensure everything you need is within reach – towels, soap, shampoo and clean clothes. A calm environment helps both parent and child relax and enjoy the moment. Always test the water temperature to make sure it is warm but not hot. Choose gentle, natural baby care products A baby’s skin is much more delicate and sensitive than an adult’s, which makes the choice of bath products particularly important. Parents are increasingly choosing natural, dermatologically tested products that are specifically formulated for babies and toddlers. Products that contain gentle ingredients such as natural milk proteins and nourishing oils can help support the skin’s natural barrier while keeping skin soft and hydrated. Brands like Sanosan, known for their baby skincare products made with carefully selected natural ingredients, are designed to cleanse and care for delicate skin without harsh additives. Using mild, skin-friendly products can help prevent dryness or irritation, ensuring bath time remains a soothing and enjoyable experience for both parent and child. Make eye contact and talk to your child Bath time is an ideal opportunity to talk, sing or tell simple stories to your baby or toddler. Babies respond to the sound of their parents’ voices, while toddlers enjoy interactive conversations. Narrating what you are doing can also help support early language development. Use gentle touch The warm water and gentle washing routine can be soothing for babies and toddlers. Soft massages while washing arms, legs and feet can help your child relax while reinforcing feelings of comfort and security. Introduce playful learning Simple bath toys, cups or floating objects can turn bath time into a fun learning experience. Toddlers can practice pouring water, identifying colours or naming body parts. These playful interactions support cognitive and motor development while strengthening parent-child connection. Follow your child’s cues Every child is different. Some enjoy long baths filled with splashing and play, while others prefer shorter, calmer routines. Pay attention to your child’s cues and adapt the routine accordingly to ensure bath time remains a positive experience. End with comfort and routine Wrapping your baby or toddler in a warm towel, followed by cuddles, lotion and bedtime preparation, helps create a predictable routine. Consistent routines provide children with a sense of security and can make the transition to sleep easier. For busy parents, bath time may feel like just another task on the to-do list. But with a few small adjustments, it can become one of the most meaningful moments of the day; strengthening the emotional bond between parent and child while supporting healthy development. Sanosan specialises in baby skincare inspired by the natural nourishing properties of milk protein, formulated to help support the skin’s protective barrier while keeping baby skin soft and healthy. The range is developed specifically for delicate baby skin and dermatologically tested to ensure gentle, effective care. www.sanosan.co.za

May 6, 2026

Splash, Play, and Bond: Easy Ways Parents Can Turn Everyday Moments into Meaningful Developmental Experiences

For parents of babies and toddlers, everyday routines are more than just part of the schedule, they are powerful opportunities for learning, connection, and sensory exploration. From playful bath time splashes to hands-on tactile play and gentle care routines, these small daily moments can support a child’s early development while strengthening the bond between parent and child. Experts say that babies learn best through touch, sound, movement, and interaction. By turning routine moments into playful, engaging experiences, parents can nurture curiosity, build confidence, and create meaningful connections. The Power of Tactile Play Tactile play – activities that encourage babies to touch, grasp, squeeze, and explore – plays an important role in early development. Through simple sensory experiences, babies strengthen their fine motor skills and begin to understand the world around them. Parents can encourage tactile play with easy activities such as: Even simple tools like soft alphabet letters can transform playtime into a learning experience by introducing early language awareness while encouraging sensory exploration. “Babies naturally learn through their senses,” says Sr Londe, independent midwife and Vital Baby’s trusted advisor. “When parents encourage touch, movement, and exploration during play, they are supporting cognitive development while also making learning joyful.” Making Bath Time Safe and Fun Bath time is another daily routine that offers valuable sensory and bonding opportunities. Warm water, gentle splashing, and playful interaction help babies feel relaxed while stimulating their senses. Parents can make bath time both enjoyable and safe by checking that bath water is comfortably warm before placing baby in the tub, and staying within arm’s reach at all times Introducing simple bath toys that encourage splashing and pouring, and talking or singing during bath time builds familiarity and comfort for your baby. Playful characters like the Vital Baby Splash & Bath Toys (Shark & Whale) add excitement while helping little hands practice grasping and squeezing. Safety tools such as bath thermometers or floating toys designed to monitor water temperature, can help parents feel more confident while keeping babies comfortable. “Bath time can be one of the most calming parts of the day,” says Sr Londe. “It’s a moment where parents can slow down, engage with their baby, and turn routine care into a playful bonding experience.” Care Routines as Bonding Moments Beyond play and bath time, daily care routines also create opportunities for connection. Grooming, nail care, or simply checking in on a baby’s wellbeing can become reassuring rituals when approached with patience and warmth. Parents can turn these moments into bonding experiences by: Having essential baby care items organized and ready can also help parents handle these moments smoothly, keeping both baby and caregiver relaxed. “These everyday interactions build a baby’s sense of trust and security,” explains Sr Londe. “When parents approach care routines calmly and lovingly, babies learn that these moments are safe and comforting. This also helps in the long run so that when your baby isn’t feeling great, the wellness habits are already established.” Small Moments, Big Impact While early childhood development often focuses on milestones, experts emphasize that meaningful growth can happens during simple, everyday moments too. A splash in the bath, a new texture during playtime, or a soothing cuddle during a care routine can all help babies develop confidence, curiosity, and emotional security. “The best developmental experiences don’t need to be complicated,” says Sr Londe. “When parents are present, playful, and attentive during daily routines, they’re creating powerful learning moments that support their child’s growth.” Vital Baby is a family-run business with over 45 years of experience in the baby industry. Their mission is to create products that make family time effortless and enjoyable for parents. The Vital Baby range, now including biodegradable and recyclable EarthSmart products, is 100% BPA-free and covers every stage of your baby’s development, from feeding and weaning, to hygiene and soothing. Explore the range online at Vital Baby® (vitalbabyshop.co.za) and Amazon, or find at Clicks, Dischem, and selected Woolworths.

May 6, 2026

Tiny Hands, Forever Held: The Beauty of Newborn Casting

There is something indescribably special about the first few weeks of a baby’s life. The way their tiny fingers curl around yours, the softness of their skin, the quiet moments that seem to pass far too quickly. As parents, we often wish we could pause time — just for a moment — to hold onto these fleeting details forever. Newborn casting offers exactly that. This delicate art form captures the intricate details of your baby’s hands and feet in a way that photographs alone simply cannot. Every crease, every tiny nail, every soft curve is preserved in a timeless keepsake that tells a story words often cannot express. It is more than just a mould — it is a memory, frozen in time. Many parents discover newborn casting when they realise just how quickly their little one is growing. In what feels like a blink, those tiny hands become busy little explorers, and those curled-up toes begin to take their first steps. Casting allows you to hold onto the very beginning — the stage where everything is still new, fragile, and incredibly precious. Safety, of course, is every parent’s first concern. Professional newborn casting uses gentle, skin-safe materials that are specifically designed for delicate newborn skin. The process is quick, non-invasive, and carried out with the utmost care, ensuring baby remains comfortable and calm throughout. Beyond the emotional value, these casts become treasured heirlooms. Displayed in your home, they serve as a daily reminder of just how small your baby once was. Over time, they become part of your family’s story — something to look back on, to share, and to pass down. At Nadine Dutton Casting Studio, each piece is created with patience, precision, and a deep understanding of how meaningful these moments are. Every casting session is approached with care, ensuring both baby and parents feel at ease, while creating a bespoke piece that is as unique as your child. Because some moments deserve more than just a memory — they deserve to be held forever.

May 4, 2026

What Nordic Education Gets Right About Early Childhood Development

Childhood is frequently measured by milestones, speed and early achievement. Dibber International Preschools is encouraging parents and caregivers to consider a different question: what if the most valuable part of early education is not how quickly children perform, but how well they are supported to grow? According to Dibber, the Nordic approach to early childhood development offers an important reminder that childhood should not be rushed or over-optimised. Instead, it should be experienced fully, with space for play, curiosity, emotional security and meaningful growth. “At Dibber, we believe childhood is a deeply important stage of life in its own right,” says Ursula Assis, Country Director of Dibber International Preschools South Africa. “The Nordic approach recognises that children need more than early academic achievement. They need to feel safe, seen and confident enough to explore, make mistakes and develop a genuine love of learning.” Rather than treating the early years as a checklist of academic skills, the Nordic curriculum emphasises the whole child. Emotional well-being, social confidence, physical activity, creativity and interest are all seen as essential parts of development, not optional extras. This helps children build not only knowledge but also the ability to engage meaningfully with the world around them. For Dibber, this philosophy comes to life within environments where learning happens through both structured and spontaneous moments. A playful conversation, a shared activity, outdoor exploration, or a child working through a challenge all become part of a larger learning journey. Play remains fundamental to this approach. In Nordic education, play is not seen as separate from learning, but as one of its most powerful forms. Through play, children experiment, collaborate, imagine and solve problems in ways that feel natural and joyful. Whether building, storytelling or exploring outside, children are developing important cognitive, social and emotional skills free from the pressure of performance. “Play gives children the freedom to think, test ideas and discover what they are capable of,” adds Assis. “When learning feels meaningful and enjoyable, children become more confident, more engaged and more willing to keep exploring.” The Nordic model is also widely recognised for its emphasis on inclusion. Every child is seen as valuable, with their own pace, personality and way of learning. Rather than expecting children to fit a rigid mould, the approach creates room for individuality and belonging. At Dibber, this translates into nurturing classrooms where children are encouraged to grow as themselves, supported by warm relationships and personalised attention. Early support is another important strength of the model, but without early pressure. Children are carefully observed and guided according to their individual needs, while still being allowed the time and space to develop at their own pace. This helps build confidence without turning early childhood into a race. For Dibber, the educator’s role is central to making this possible. In a Nordic-inspired environment, educators do not simply direct learning from the front of the room. They guide, support and create opportunities for children to think, ask questions and discover answers for themselves. This helps children become active participants in their own development rather than inactive receivers of information. This approach also reflects a broader understanding of what education should aim to develop. Holistic growth — social, emotional, physical and cognitive — is treated as the real goal. Children are encouraged to build relationships, express feelings, move their bodies, explore their surroundings, and grow into individuals who are not only capable learners but also empathetic, resilient, and self-aware. Dibber also notes that the Nordic approach makes space for thoughtful, balanced use of technology. Rather than replacing play and human interaction, digital tools are introduced in moderation and used to enhance learning where appropriate. This helps children build early digital awareness while remaining anchored in real-world connection and exploration. Another defining feature focuses on the emphasis on teamwork rather than competition. Children are encouraged to share ideas, work together and learn alongside one another. In doing so, they begin developing communication skills and an enhanced sense of community from an early age. “The Nordic curriculum reminds us that childhood is not about getting ahead, but about growing well,” says Assis. “When children are supported through play, inclusion, emotional safety and strong relationships, they build a foundation that serves them far beyond preschool.” For Dibber, this is what the Nordic approach gets right. It recognises that early childhood education should not simply prepare children for the next academic step, but help shape confident, connected and curious individuals who are ready for life.

May 4, 2026

Redefining play: Creating inclusive spaces for children on the autism spectrum

In a move that reflects a growing shift to combine enjoyment with personal growth, social connection and community impact, Rush, an indoor playpark, has invested in specialised autism training for its teams. ‘We recognise that traditional high-energy environments can be overwhelming for some neurodivergent children,’ explains Richard Poulton, National Brand Manager at Rush. ‘So we partnered with by Autism Western Cape to equip our staff with the understanding and practical tools needed to better support children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families.’ ASD is a neurological condition that affects how individuals communicate, interact socially and experience the world. In South Africa, approximately 1 in 31 children are diagnosed with ASD, highlighting the need for more inclusive public and recreational spaces. The team behind Rush then took meaningful steps to ensure that play is accessible to all children, including those on the autism spectrum by hosting a free dedicated, neurodivergent-friendly open day, at Rush in Claremont on Wednesday, April 29. Around 200 children – aged between 3 and 16 – together with their parents and caregivers attended. Space for every child to play The open day was designed for families within the ADHD and autism community. By adjusting the environment from sensory stimuli (no music or televisions), including chill tents and ensuring trained staff were present, Rush created a space where children could have fun on their own terms, free from pressure or overstimulation. ‘Play is a fundamental part of childhood development but for many families navigating autism, finding safe and supportive environments is not always easy,’ says Julia Iles from Rush. ‘This initiative is about removing barriers, not just for a day but as part of a longer journey towards more inclusive spaces.’ Why play and movement matters Beyond its social benefits, play, particularly activities like trampolining, can offer meaningful developmental support for children on the autism spectrum. Research shows that trampoline-based activities can: For some children, the rhythmic motion of jumping can also serve as a form of self-regulation, helping them manage stress, anxiety or sensory input. A collaborative approach Autism Western Cape played a central role in facilitating both the training and coordinating the upcoming event. ‘True inclusion starts with understanding and responsiveness,’ says Roshan Subailey of Autism Western Cape. ‘By investing in training and creating spaces like this, Rush is demonstrating what it means to move beyond awareness towards meaningful, everyday inclusion. These initiatives show how organisations can create environments where neurodivergency is embraced and supported.’ From awareness to action While awareness of autism has grown, practical inclusion remains a challenge, particularly in leisure environments designed around noise, movement and stimulation. The training programme addressed this gap head-on and provided staff – from front-of-house teams to court monitors – with foundational understanding of autism, including: ‘The training really shifted our perspective. We feel more confident now in how we approach and support children who may experience our spaces differently,’ says Shameerah Toffey, team leader at Rush. Looking ahead While this open day marks an important milestone, Rush sees this as part of a broader, ongoing commitment. ‘We’ve always believed in the power of play to bring people together. ‘Beyond the social, mental and physical benefits of play, there is something incredibly rewarding about watching children simply being themselves. For our teams, that joy becomes more meaningful when working with children for whom play does not always come easily. Creating an environment that feels softer, gentler and truly safe, allows them the freedom to relax, engage and enjoy play their own way. ‘This is not a once-off involvement,’ Poulton adds. ‘It’s about creating inclusivity into how we think about play, design our spaces and engage with every family who walks through our doors feels genuinely special.”

May 1, 2026

Pocket-Sized Reassurance for Life’s Unexpected Moments

Panado® knows that pain and fever in children never happen in just one place and often start without warning. You can schedule playdates, swimming lessons and dentist appointments, but you cannot schedule pain and fever. You can colour code the calendar and set reminders on your phone, but you cannot predict when pain and fever will strike. One minute, your child is perfectly fine, racing around the playground or chasing butterflies in the park. The next, they are flushed, clingy and telling you something hurts. Many children will experience cold and flu symptoms, fevers, teething, toothache, and the odd sore throat, yet they can still catch you off guard. While you cannot prevent every virus or growing pain, you can control how prepared you are when pain and fever show up with Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets.1 Designed for real-life parenting moments, each sachet contains a single 5 ml dose of Panado® Strawberry Syrup, powered by paracetamol, an ingredient with more than 150 years of clinical experience2. The sachets are sealed, hygienic, compact and easy to store or carry, making them perfect for travel and everyday outings. Containing the same trusted3 formulation, strength and berry nice flavour parents know, Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets are ready to work immediately4 and are suitable for babies and children from three months and older. When needed, you tear or cut it open, measure the correct dose using a syringe or medicine measure, administer it and discard any remaining liquid. To support safe and accurate use, dosage is calculated according to a child’s age and weight. Parents can check the Panado® dosage calculator at panado.co.za/dosage-calculator, or scan the QR code for guidance. This helps take the guesswork out of dosing and gives extra peace of mind. The medicine cabinet Your medicine cabinet is often the first place you turn when your child feels unwell. Keeping Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets1 there means you are prepared without scrambling through drawers in the middle of the night. The nappy bag The humble nappy bag holds wipes, nappies, snacks, toys and at least three things you forgot were in there. Toss in a few Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets1, and you’re set for unexpected temperature spikes on the go. Handbags and pockets As children grow, the nappy bag fades, but life’s curveballs don’t. Slip a slim Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachet1 into your handbag – or pocket on hectic days – in case your little one feels under the weather when you’re out and about. The cubby hole A lot of your week plays out in the car, from school drop-offs and drives to friends, to quick dashes to the shops, and everything else in between. Stash Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets1 in the cubby for instant access. The first aid kit Whether for trips, sleepovers, or school outings, your first aid kit already has plasters, antiseptics, and bandages. Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets1 round it out perfectly for pain and fever relief. Children will have days when they don’t feel their best. You cannot prevent each one, but you can be ready for them. Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets1 help parents slip a little reassurance into the places you use every day so wherever life takes you and your child, trusted3 pain and fever relief travels with you. Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets sit alongside the wider Panado® paediatric range, which includes Panado® Strawberry Syrup1, Panado® Peppermint5, suitable from Day 1 and Panado® Infant Drops6. Panado® Infant Drops were named a Product of the Year 2025 winner in the Child Health category7, based on votes from 2,000 South African consumers in a Kantar survey. Panado® products are available from Baby City, Pick n Pay, Checkers including Hypers, Shoprite, Clicks, Dis-Chem and independent pharmacies. For more information, visit: https://panado.co.za/ and join the conversations on Facebook. For references and legal disclaimers, visit https://panado.co.za/references. Approval ticket #03.20261000005039. March 2026.

May 1, 2026

Help your toddler survive your divorce

Divorce is unpleasant, emotional and can be a downright hurtful experience. The problem is that we sometimes forget that we aren’t the only ones experiencing this pain. Often our children suffer an unnecessary degree of hurt as a result of our incompatibility with our chosen partner… Some tips: Consistency This is a watchword for the divorcing parent! With toddlers, parents must be mindful of the need for consistency in the child’s life. This is not the time to drag them from house to house. If at all possible, they should stay in familiar surroundings with the noncustodial parent visiting there. Communication At this age, the toddler understands more than they are often given credit for. They can comprehend that one parent has left the home, but not understand why. At this age, their concept of time is also arbitrary. Your child may ask you when they are going to see their daddy, or why their daddy isn’t here anymore. No matter how many times you have to give them the answers, don’t get frustrated with them, as their world is very confusing at this time. This ties back into consistency, as you become their source of understanding and answers. Conflict If you have to argue or “debate passionately”, make sure to do it in a way that doesn’t cause your child undue fear or concern. Remember, you are the adults in this situation and you have a responsibility to your child, to reduce as much harm as this separation is causing, as possible. Behaviour Toddlers often test their boundaries by saying “No” to adults or testing limits, such as hitting or throwing. This behaviour and acting out can increase during the divorce process as a result of confused boundaries and definitions in the family environment. Toddlers need clear, consistent rules (back to consistency!) that are enforced in a loving way. Empathy Toddlers don’t have a very developed sense of empathy and tend to be concerned primarily with how their own needs are to be met. In the event of divorce, their sense of security becomes more self-oriented and their concern is about whether or not they will be secure, if they will be loved and nourished. Emotions As your toddler becomes more aware of their own feelings, they learn to express them through words and play. As tensions increase in the household due to impending divorce, they may become more reactive. Strong feelings are hard for them to manage and moderate. Don’t forget to let them know that its ok to feel them, but remember to help them manage the intensity by proper displays of your own emotional state, as well as appropriate levels of affection and understanding towards your child. Why do divorce rates increase? There are several reasons that have been put forward as to why there could be an increase in the number of divorces being seen. Here are just a few! Time of year There is a commonly recognised trend that causes a spike in divorce numbers around January and February. The assumption here is that partners who are already discontent often reach a decisive point after having to spend prolonged holidays with their partners over the festive season. This seems to galvanise many into initiating divorce proceedings in the New Year. Empowerment With the increase in awareness of rights according to the constitution of South Africa, more women have become more empowered and are less likely to remain in abusive or undesirable relationships. In the past, many women would remain in unhappy relationships as they felt that they did not have another option, but in current times, a better degree of knowledge and understanding of women’s’ rights could be contributing to the rise of divorce. No-fault divorce South African law provides for no-fault divorce based on the “irretrievable breakdown” of the marital relationship. Couples no longer need to prove that one person is at fault. They can simply say that the marriage relationship has broken down. In essence, it has become much easier to secure a divorce on clear and available legal grounds, with less procedure than in the past. Traditional roles In the past, traditional roles played a strong part in maintaining the marital unit. Partners did not question their lot in the marriage as openly and as a result, there was less open conflict. This is not to say that there was more happiness, merely less interpersonal disagreement. With the blurring of the definition of these roles, there is a rise in open disagreement, ending too often in divorce. Greater social acceptance In certain cultural groups in South Africa, divorce has long held an extremely shameful cloud over the divorcee, especially for the former wife. This has resulted in shunning and community abandonment, which served to discourage others from initiating proceedings. The more accepting the societies become of the concept; the more individuals are willing to pursue it as a route out of an undesirable marriage. Less guilt It is not uncommon these days for couples to wait 10 years before having children. As a result, many do not feel the same degree of guilt over “breaking up” the family unit, or over causing children distress. The disclaimer “at least there aren’t kids involved” can be heard echoing through the divorce courts.

April 29, 2026

Calming a Child with Sensory Processing Difficulties

Many people are unaware that there is a difference between a tantrum and a meltdown. While both may involve screaming, kicking, shouting, biting and even swearing, there are some fundamental differences. Tantrums involve a child who has been frustrated in their attempt to do or have something, they usually only occur with an audience and they’ll usually abate once the child has what they want. Meltdowns on the other hand are a reaction to feeling overloaded or overwhelmed and there is no end goal or need for an audience. Meltdowns are the most common complaint of parents who have children with sensory processing issues and can result from trips to the supermarket, parties, classrooms or even just a bumpy sock. Most often, these children have trouble transitioning from one activity to another and may meltdown every day when they have to move from playing to school or from bath-time to bedtime. Their brains are continuously receiving jumbled messages from their senses and just getting through the day can be incredibly frustrating and overwhelming. Because they are often not getting enough proprioception, they seek ways to stimulate their muscles and joints (which can be very calming for them) and so may seem to be in perpetual motion. They tend to be both under and over stimulated at the same time! Here are some tips both for avoiding the meltdowns in the first place, and for calming a child who is becoming over stimulated and ready to crack. Firstly, predictability is very important for these children. They need to know what is happening and what will happen next and need lots of warning if there will be changes in their routine and/or if they need to transition to a new activity or environment. Making a picture chart of their daily routine can be helpful with the little ones so that they know what to expect next. Consistency is important too. Being very consistent with rules and consequences and with your own reactions to things. Never ever restrict movement time as a punishment. I’m not a fan of punishment at all, as “bad behaviour” is really just a communication from a child that something is not right, but these children do need predictable and clear boundaries in order to feel safe. It is essential to keep their blood sugar levels stable. Low blood sugar levels can exacerbate the symptoms and meltdowns. High protein, high fat and low carb diets are ideal. Sugar is a no-go area. Having a sensory retreat can be very helpful for recovering from a meltdown. Have a quiet, dark area like a tent with lots of pillows, some soft music, a chew toy and maybe even a weighted blanket. When you’re out and about, make sure you have a bottle with ice cold water and a straw for them to drink from, keep a pack of chewy snacks like biltong, raisins etc, have a stress ball or Prestick or a strip of Velcro for them to play with, get them to carry a heavy backpack, and consider purchasing some soundproof headphones to block out excess noise. At home, useful aids include an indoor or outdoor trampoline, a weighted blanket, a pilates ball, a rocking chair or swing. They need safe ways to jump, kick, run, push, pull and punch. This could involve jungle gyms or pull up bars, or even just pushing a heavy bag around the house or pulling a heavy wagon on a walk (or even pushing the trolley or carrying heavy groceries at the shops). Bath time can be improved by scrubbing them with a rough brush or sponge or giving them a deep massage after the bath, having a massage jet spray in the bath, and buying them an electric toothbrush instead of the ordinary ones. At cooking time, give your sensory child something to do like heavy mixing, rolling of dough, carrying heavy pots or tenderising meat with a mallet. Helping around the house can also be very calming for them – get them to vacuum or move furniture so you can clean or to do the heavy digging in the garden. Playtime on rainy days can be supplemented with indoor obstacle courses or creating an indoor sandpit with beans or popcorn instead of sand and the usual cups, shovels, cars etc. Other calming tips can include using a special video or song to transition between two activities, placing a heating pad on the back of their neck, using lavender or chamomile essential oils dropped behind their ears, drinking chamomile tea, and even sandwiching them between two pillows and squashing them. There is some research now to suggest that kids with sensory processing issues have inflammation in the brain, which can be relieved by supplementing high doses of Omega 3’s and curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric). A regular probiotic can also help. It is also hugely beneficial if you are calm. Doing some deep breathing when your child is losing it will ensure that you can think clearly and come up with solutions to pull them out of their meltdown instead of joining them in it! Remember that your child is not trying to be naughty or difficult, they are genuinely struggling to keep it together in the world and to feel ok in their own skin. A bit of patience, a lot of creativity, and some forethought can go a long way towards helping these kids to get through a day without a meltdown.

April 29, 2026

Four Classic Reasons a Child Misbehaves

I’ve been working with parents and other caregivers for over 20 years, helping them find solutions to their children’s challenging behaviour s. The adults who come to me want to know what to do about the behaviour and providing them with easy-to-apply solutions is my ultimate goal. To get there, I ask the caregivers a series of questions about the behaviour and all contributing factors that will help lead me to the underlying problem that is causing the child’s challenging behaviour. According to leading psychologists, a child’s behaviour falls into one of these four primary categories. See if you can connect past or reoccurring incidents of challenging behaviour from your child, to either of these. Communications When a child is tired, grouchy, and whiny, he or she is not likely to walk up to the parent and say, “Gee dad, I’m feeling a little tired right now. Do you mind if I lie down and take a nap?” They are however, very likely to not cooperative, throw a fit, or refuse to get into the car seat. In this case, their behaviour is communication about the fact that they have had enough stimulation and need sleep. Expression of Needs On occasion I would take my 3 year old granddaughter to the mall with me and like her mother many years before; I would sometimes end up chasing her through the crowd. In a quick moment if I let go of her hand, with a mischievous smile she would run from me yelling, “Catch me grandpa!” Her giggling told me that she wanted to play with me and her way of expressing that need was to run away and get me to chase after her. This required me to firm up the boundaries on the next trip and to find more appropriate ways to satisfy her need to play. Experimentation A woman contacted me for help with her five year old. The little girl began walking around on her hands and knees, barking like a dog. She was probably experimenting with the act of pretending to be a dog, to see what it felt like, and to see what the reaction of her adult caregivers would be. The woman initially became very annoyed with the constant barking. Her scolding created a new motivation in her daughter to do it more because it became unexpectedly fun for the little girl to drive mommy crazy! Unconscious Drives Famed psychodynamic psychologist Sigmund Freud believed that processes are constantly working in the unreachable subconscious region of the mind. These processes are thoughts that can trigger emotions and behaviour s in an adult or a child. If a child is living in a situation where adult chaos is present, the chaos can become worry, fear, or anxiety for a child which can then generate challenging behaviour s for the caregivers. The adult chaos may be in the form of parents fighting, a single mother feeling and acting stressed, parents and grandparents in conflict, or even a teacher who has not been taking care of herself. Children look to their caregivers for a sense that things are OK and when they don’t appear OK, the child is likely to reflect that unstable sense through their own behaviour .

April 28, 2026

How Safe Are Teething Gels?

Every baby is different but common symptoms associated with teething include, mild irritability, drooling, low-grade fever and loss of appetite. If your baby is inconsolable or has a high fever chances are this is not due to teething. Teething should not make your baby very sick but rather very unhappy.

April 24, 2026

Panado® Proudly Launches Berry Nice 5 ml Sachets to Make Life Easier For Parents On-the-Go

Panado® is the trusted1 name parents reach for when they need the power to fight their little one’s pain and fever. But as any parent knows, pain and fever never arrive at a convenient time. A fever can spike halfway through a long car trip or teething pain can creep in during a weekend away. A sore ear can appear mid-grocery shop or on the taxi ride home. And a sore throat? It always seems to show up just before bedtime at Gogo’s house. That’s where Panado®’s newest offering – Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets2 – fit neatly into real life with children. Ready to work immediately,3 gentle on stomachs4 and made for those unexpected moments when parents need pain and fever relief. Your perfect backup for life’s little surprises Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets2 offer on-the-go pocket power for parents and are compact, easy to store, and ideal for travel. Whether tucked into your pocket, a handbag, nappy bag, backpack or car console, they’re a practical solution when families are out and about. Easily accessible, they offer a solution for unexpected pain or fever emergencies. Small enough to carry, pain & fever relief when you need it most Suitable for babies and children from three months and older2, each sachet contains a single 5 ml dose of Panado® Strawberry Syrup2, powered by paracetamol, which has over 150 years of clinical experience5. There’s no bulky bottle to pack and no messy spills to deal with. Parents simply tear open the sachet, administer the right dosage using a medicine measure or syringe, and toss what’s left once the correct dose has been given. No mess. No stress. Just pain and fever relief. Dosage is calculated according to a child’s age and weight, and parents can check the Panado® dosage calculator at panado.co.za/dosage-calculator, or scan the QR code. This extra step helps ensure the right dose every time. Big relief in one tiny sachet The Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets2 contain the same trusted2 formulation, strength and berry nice flavour parents are familiar with, ready to work immediately3 when pain or fever strikes. Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets1 complement the existing Panado® paediatric range, which includes Panado® Strawberry Syrup2, Panado® Peppermint6 with improved taste7 and Panado® Infant Drops8, recognised as a Product of the Year 2025 winner, voted for by 2,000 South African consumers in a Kantar survey and awarded in the Child – Health category.9 Parents trust1 Panado® to bring comfort when it matters most, helping your little one settle, feel better and get back to being their happy, playful self, wherever the day takes you. Panado® products are available from Baby City, Pick n Pay, Checkers including Hypers, Shoprite, Clicks, Dis-Chem and independent pharmacies. For more information, visit: https://panado.co.za/ and join the conversations on Facebook. For references and legal disclaimers, visit https://panado.co.za/references. Approval ticket #02.20261000004801. February 2026.

April 22, 2026

Top 5 ways to encourage your toddler to speak

Milestones are often reached at different times by different children. Speech is one of them. If your young toddler is on the verge of speaking, starting to babble, and you want to help them along – try these tips 1. Talk A lot. You may not think this, but your child can already start taking language cues. They are listening to you. So describe what you are doing, point at objects and say their names out loud. Verbalise as much as you possibly can. Just hearing you form words will get them to talk that much faster. 2. Make it fun When children are enjoying what they are doing, they learn so much more from it (this is really what the Toptots classes are built on too). When you are actively trying to teach them to say certain words, make them words they will enjoy. For example, if they love animals then the word dog or cat. 3. Keep it simple Don’t try to teach them more than two words at a time. They won’t be able to retain the information. Keep it short and sweet, and use repetition to help them remember the sounds. Keep to single syllable sounds so as to not overwhelm them. 4. Make them ask This is for toddlers that have the ability to talk but would rather point at things (this is very common). If your child can say the word water, but would rather point at the tap, then wait for them to say it before pouring it. This starts the ball rolling on language development and expression. 5. Use music. Children love music, and can often remember melodies better than words. When the two are combined, the music helps children decipher sounds better. Play songs they enjoy in the car, at home, and make it a fun experience to try and sing along! Your toddler’s ability to speak depends largely on their environment and home life. Try to include as many spoken opportunities for them as possible, and commit to taking time each day to run through simple words with them.

April 22, 2026

Body20 Cares Returns in 2026: Powering Hope for Children with Cancer

Sometimes, the greatest strength is found in unity. After raising over R150,000 in its inaugural year, Body20 is proud to relaunch its Body20 Cares initiative for 2026 — a campaign driven by compassion, community, and the belief that true wellness extends far beyond the studio floor. Body20 remains committed to ongoing support throughout 2026 and beyond, ensuring sustained impact for children with cancer and their families. From April to May 2026, 50% of all new members’ joining fees at Body20 studios nationwide will be donated to CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa. These funds don’t just support a cause—they wrap children and their families in hope at the very moment they need it most. Supporting CHOC means directly helping children facing cancer and their families find comfort and strength. “This initiative isn’t just an activity for us — it’s a lifeline,” says Philip Hughes, chief executive officer of Body20 Global. “Last year, we witnessed firsthand how small actions, multiplied by many, can create a wave of hope. As Body20 Cares returns, our mission is simple: uplift families, offer practical support, and remind every parent and child battling cancer that they are never alone.” Cancer today touches almost every family, casting long shadows of fear and uncertainty. In South Africa, around 1,000 children are diagnosed with cancer each year—though many more go undiagnosed, and each statistic represents a child, a parent, a story. Despite advances in treatment, a diagnosis brings a tidal wave of emotional, logistical, and financial challenges. Organisations like CHOC are lifelines, offering more than just accommodation—they provide comfort, dignity, and a sense of home when families need it most. “Partnerships like Body20 Cares help us deliver vital support to children and their families,” says Adri Ludick, interim CEO for CHOC. “Every contribution means a family can stay together, a child can rest in comfort, and no one must face this journey alone. Last year, funds from Body20 Cares kept our CHOC Houses open—safe havens like Diepkloof, which offered warmth, food, and daily support to up to 30 people at a time. When hospitals close their doors at night, CHOC keeps hope alive for families in crisis.” Body20 Cares is about more than fundraising—it’s about human connection and shared purpose. Every new member isn’t just prioritising their own wellness; they’re giving a child and parent one less worry, one more day together, and a little more hope. Your participation can help us build a community united by compassion and action. “This is where fitness meets purpose,” Hughes adds. “Every sign-up is more than a membership; it’s a lifeline for a child fighting cancer, and a message to families that they are seen, valued, and supported by a whole community.” As Body20 Cares enters its second year, we invite every South African to stand with us. Join as a member, donate, or spread the word—every action, big or small, has the power to change a life. Your support makes you an essential part of this movement, helping us turn compassion into tangible hope. In a world where time is scarce and health is priceless, Body20 brings together your two most valuable resources. With cutting-edge EMS technology, Body20 helps people transform their wellbeing in just 20 minutes a week. It’s a promise: you can prioritise your health, support your community, and still have time for what—and who—matters most. Powerful transformations don’t just happen in our bodies—they ripple out, touching families, communities, and futures. When we move with purpose, we move the world a little closer to hope. To join Body20 Cares, become a new member at any Body20 studio or donate directly. For information or to get involved, visit https://body20.co.za/body20-cares or contact [email protected] | 087 231 0359. #Body20 #CHOC #Body20Cares #Cancer #ChildrenWithCancer #Children

April 20, 2026

The Role of Preschool Educators Is Changing

While most people believe preschool educators simply keep children safe and teach basic skills, Dibber International Preschools emphasises that today’s early childhood educators have a much broader, more critical role. Their evolving responsibilities are essential in shaping children’s development, making their work more significant than ever. “The early years are not just a phase to manage — they are a window where children form foundations for learning, relating, and coping,” says Ursula Assis, Country Director of Dibber International Preschools South Africa. Educators do much more than deliver activities. They observe, guide, and support each child’s development responsively, intentionally, and skillfully.” Today, early learning success is defined not by rote performance but by a child’s capacity to make meaning from real experiences. Exploration, repetition, interaction, and play are now recognised as the best ways young children build foundational skills for lifelong learning. The educator’s task has shifted: Rather than focusing on direct teaching, they now create learning moments that ignite curiosity and strengthen competencies. True impact comes from recognising what each child is ready for and supporting discovery rather than directing it. At Dibber South Africa, this is reflected in the Engaged Educator™ role. Children are encouraged to explore and lead their learning through play-based experiences, while educators gently guide in the background, stepping in when support is needed and back when independence grows. “From the outside, it can look like children are simply playing,” Assis explains. “But what is really happening is that educators are building language, problem-solving, self-regulation and social confidence through carefully observed, thoughtfully supported experiences.” One reason the evolving role of preschool educators is under-appreciated is that much of their most important work is invisible at drop-off, pick-up, or during a tour. It shows up in pacing, tone, timing, and what educators choose to notice. In an average day, an early childhood educator may be: These actions accumulate quietly and consistently over time. Outcomes are often celebrated—a child who manages disappointment, plays cooperatively, or tries again after struggling—but the source can be overlooked unless parents know what to look for. As educators’ roles become more developmental and responsive, the parent-educator relationship evolves as well. Dibber says this requires genuine partnership, where educators share observations, and parents feel included, not just informed. “This invites parents to a new kind of trust,” says Assis. “Not blind trust—real trust. Built with open conversation, shared observations, and educators knowing each child individually.” When choosing a preschool, parents should look beyond logistics and ask: Do educators speak warmly and specifically about children? Do they know each child’s interests, strengths, and challenges? How do they respond to upset children? Is the environment calm and purposeful, or rushed? Does the school have a clear, well-articulated philosophy? “The questions parents ask shape their partnerships,” Assis adds. “When families and educators align, children feel it—and that security supports all learning.” While the importance of preschool educators has always been high, what’s evolving is society’s understanding of just how vital the early years are and of the expertise educators need to nurture a child’s earliest development. This is why their changing role matters so deeply today. Dibber International Preschools advances educator development with its Nordic-based method, values-led Heart Culture, and play-based philosophy supporting the whole child—cognitively, socially, emotionally, and physically.

April 20, 2026

What If My Child Won’t Take No for an Answer?

If you’ve said no firmly and you’re child is wearing you down, avoid doing what many parent do when they are tired and overworked; giving in just to stop the pleading and begging. Doing so might stop the noise that’s adding to your stress, but it will also teach your child to repeat this behaviour anytime they receive a NO from you (and others) in the future. BE FIRM, STAY CALM, AND REMAIN QUIET So let me get right to the punch on this question. If your child is asking for something you can’t or won’t give to them and they won’t stop drilling you for it, calmly tell them that you’re not willing to discuss this issue any further and remain completely quiet if they try to engage you further. Be ready and willing to talk to them about any other subject, just not this one. WHAT IF YOUR CHILD HITS YOU IN RESPONSE? If this occurs, the answer is to tell them firmly, “No one is allowed to hit me,” and remove yourself from your child’s access immediately. This means you must go to another place in the house to be away from your child in the moment. If this isn’t easy to do, do your best to remove yourself from your child. Do not hit your child back and avoid yelling or punishing them. Doing so will only reward your child by reacting. WHAT IF THE CHILD CAUSES PROPERTY DAMAGE? Some parents have reported that when they left the area to be away from their child, the child became so angry that they caused some damage to something in the house. While there is a risk that this could occur, it is better to have property damage then physical damage to you or your child. If their behaviour becomes this extreme in response to a no, you should consider seeking help immediately from your child’s paediatrician or a family therapist. OTHER IDEAS TO CONSIDER When your child asks for something and you know that your NO may cause a meltdown, guide your child to a calendar and set a date and time in which the two of you will sit down and discuss the request. They may not be happy with this response, but it will tell them that the door isn’t completely closed on their request. This is also a great technique if what they are asking for is big and you need more time to think about it or research their request, such as piercings, dating, cell phones, etc. Finally, try replacing the word NO with one of these two phrases: “I’m not willing ____________,” or “I’m not ready for you to ___________________.” They put the ownership on you and not on your child. It is also less likely that your child will feel less driven to change your NO into a YES by arguing. When you demonstrate power over your own “will,” or state that you’re NOT READY for them to do something, you don’t have to have a reason for it, or even a date as to when you’ll be ready. Simply tell them they can ask again to see if things have changed.

April 15, 2026

My toddler has a short attention span – is he hyperactive?

Toddlers typically have a very short attention span. Time means nothing and a few minutes can seem like forever to a toddler. They are meant to flit from one activity to the next, building up as many experiences as possible. Remember they have a lot of ground to cover. Don’t expect an 18 month old to sit still and build a puzzle, read, post etc. for more than a few minutes. Life’s experiences are taken in small bites and as often as possible. This is one of the reasons you should offer a variety of activities and often don’t spend too many minutes on one in particular. You might find that your toddler surprises you and gets involved in an activity for more than a few minutes. If we manage seven minutes we are ecstatic. That’s good going, but don’t expect that every time. For your little toddler to focus on an activity for more than a few minutes he has to find it interesting, it has to be new to him and he must be able to master the skill. If it’s too difficult he will get frustrated and move on. Being able to master a skill and then repeat it gives them a sense of accomplishment. I can do this, and I can do it well. Challenge your toddler. They might not grasp the activity straight away but practice makes perfect. Varied experiences with different activities will give them many opportunities to learn about life and how things work. When posting a ping pong ball through a swimming pool tube, you learn that the ball comes out the other side. When making holes in play dough you are strengthening your finger muscles. Pouring from one container to another teaches you about full and empty. The lessons are endless. Research has shown that toddlers need to be on the move taking in as much of life as they possibly can so that they have references to refer back to later. Give your toddler as many opportunities as possible to explore the world around them. Remember learning has to be FUN!

April 14, 2026

Calm Is a Superpower in the Early Years

Walk into a calm room, and something in the body settles: shoulders drop, breathing slows, and thoughts find space. Dibber International Preschools says a calm environment is not a nice-to-have, but one of the most powerful developmental tools in the early years. “The world is stimulating enough,” says Ursula Assis, Country Director of Dibber International Preschools South Africa. “A child needs a place to land – somewhere that feels safe and steady. When children feel calm, they become more available for learning, connection, and confidence.” Dibber notes well-designed environments do more than keep children safe. They shape children’s feelings, their willingness to explore, their ability to recover, and the depth of their learning. Calm is foundational, not an afterthought. Dibber explains that young children are not miniature adults. Their developing nervous systems make them sensitive to sensory and emotional tones. Noise, clutter, unpredictability, and tension can tax their brains. When children feel overwhelmed, the brain enters alert mode. The child spends energy on self-protection rather than on curiosity or connection. Deep learning becomes difficult because the brain manages the environment instead of exploring it. “At Dibber, calm is not about control or silence,” says Assis. “It’s about creating an emotional and physical space where children can breathe, belong, and build capability at their own pace.” Dibber emphasises calm does not mean sterile or joyless. Nurturing spaces include gentle movement, soft conversation, and laughter. Each element is intentional. At Dibber South Africa, classrooms are designed with purpose, not just decorated. Each choice answers one question: Does this help each child feel at home and at ease? Dibber says calm environments create ripple effects across every area of development: 1) Emotional security and regulationChildren who feel safe begin to internalise calm. Over time, they learn to self-regulate, manage big feelings, recover from disappointment, and settle quickly. Dibber calls this one of the most transferable life skills. 2) Deeper focus and concentrationA child who is not managing environmental stress is freer to focus on what is in front of them. Even short periods of sustained attention in early years build the foundation for future learning, reading, problem-solving, and creativity. A calm environment lets children try challenges, make a mess, and feel comfortable when they don’t yet know the answer, allowing confidence to take root. 4) Stronger relationships with educators and peersWhen children feel settled, they can connect more easily. Friendships form naturally, trust in educators grows, and children open to guidance and support. Simple measures, such as a consistent bedtime routine, quiet spaces for play, lowering adult voices during transitions, and reducing background noise when focusing, support a child’s nervous system and emotional well-being. Dibber’s approach, rooted in Nordic pedagogy, recognises how a child feels shapes how they learn. Educators maintain calm, supportive spaces that help each child thrive.

April 13, 2026

73% Better Outcomes. Not From More Therapy. From Connection

Why the people already in your child’s life might just need a way to work together You find the right OT. You get a great teacher. The speech therapist has a plan. On paper, everything’s in place. But in practice? The OT doesn’t know what the teacher is doing. The teacher hasn’t seen the speech therapist’s report. And you’re the only person connecting the dots, relaying messages, re-explaining, holding the whole picture in your head because nobody else is. It’s exhausting. And the research says it’s also the thing most likely to be limiting your child’s progress. 73% Better Outcomes. Not From More Therapy. From Connection. A major meta-analysis in JAMA Pediatrics found that when a child’s support team actively coordinates (sharing strategies, aligning goals, tracking progress together) the chance of meaningful improvement rises to 73%. Not from new interventions. Just from making sure the people already involved are actually working together. This matters especially for children with learning differences. A skill practised in the therapy room doesn’t automatically transfer to the classroom. If the teacher doesn’t know the strategy exists, or is using different cues, even excellent therapy can stall. That’s not your child failing. That’s a gap in the system around them. And it cuts both ways. Teachers often want to involve parents more closely, but the mechanisms just aren’t there. Contact ends up being a rushed chat at pickup or a termly report. The willingness exists on both sides. What’s missing is a simple way to make it happen. What You Can Do Ask your child’s team one question: do you have a way to share information with each other, not just at annual reviews, but week to week? Can the OT’s recommendations actually reach the classroom? Does the teacher know what the therapist is working toward? If the answer is no, that’s the gap to close. You need the people already in your child’s life to be connected. If you’re tired of being the go-between, Dalza gives your child’s whole support team (teachers, therapists, and you) one shared space to stay aligned. No more re-explaining. No more lost reports. Teachers and therapists join for free. We spend so much energy finding the right people for our children. The next step is making sure those people can actually talk to each other. That’s where the real gains are. Asarnow, J. R., Rozenman, M., Wiblin, J., & Zeltzer, L. (2015). Integrated medical-behavioral care compared with usual primary care for child and adolescent behavioral health. JAMA Pediatrics, 169(10), 929–937.

April 9, 2026

Memory – Take Note of the Role of Music!

Have you ever heard a song and it has brought back a memory? That memory may include the place where you heard the song, what you were doing at the time, how you felt and sometimes even a sensory trigger, like the memory of a certain taste or smell. The effect is so profound that a heart-warming movement called “Music and Memory” (http://www.musicandmemory.org) creates personalised playlists for residents with dementia in nursing homes. Apparently, the response is incredible! Eyes light up and bodies start to move with the rhythm, as the music awakens memories of forgotten lives. All this from a piece of music! So why does music impact memory so profoundly? Neuroscientists have analysed the brain mechanisms related to memory, finding that words set to music are the easiest to remember. We can all relate to that – just try and remember anything set to a tune and your powers of recall will be stronger! Apparently, the hippocampus and the frontal cortex are two large areas in the brain associated with memory and they take in a great deal of information every minute. But, we all know from experience, that retrieving all that information is not always easy. However, the structure of a song helps us to remember, because it provides a rhythm, rhyme and sometimes alliteration, which helps to unlock that information with cues. The cues can also include things like the melody, emotions or images that the song lyrics evoke. Neuroscientists are constantly discovering more and more about how music affects memory. A 2009 study done by cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Petr Janata at the University of California, found a potential explanation for the link between music and memory by mapping the brain activity of a group of subjects while they listened to music. Dr. Janata found that songs linked to strong emotions and memories corresponded with fMRI images that had greater activity in the upper part of the pre-frontal cortex, which sits right behind the forehead. This suggests that this area of the brain, which is also responsible for supporting and retrieving long-term memories, acts as a “hub” that links together music, emotions, and memories. The soundtrack of our lives … Janata explains that listening to a piece of familiar music “serves as a soundtrack for a mental movie that starts playing in our head,” calling back memories of a particular person or place. What about music in the brains of children? Over the past 14 years of using music as a catalyst for learning at our Wriggle and Rhyme music classes, we’ve seen, first hand, how music-based activities affect children’s brains. The responsibility to fill children’s brains with positive, learning experiences is not one that we take lightly. We recognize that because our programs are set to music, we are building memories that may last a lifetime. Music education is therefore both a privilege and an exquisite burden! Whether you’re a parent, caregiver or educator, bear that in mind! When it comes to music, everything that you expose your child/ren to needs to be done intentionally, with purpose. You could be impacting your child’s memory for the rest of their lives! So, can I encourage you to build musical memories that evoke rich, joyful experiences for years to come? Because, when it comes to memory, we need to take note of the role of music! Musical resources

April 8, 2026

5 Things Children Learn Outdoors That Classrooms Can’t Teach

Some of childhood’s most powerful lessons begin outdoors, where curiosity leads, and growth flourishes beyond any classroom’s four walls. While classrooms offer structure, routine, and guidance, outdoor environments offer something different. They offer real-world experiences that spark curiosity and build confident problem-solvers. Dibber International Preschools says that the advantages of learning outdoors go far beyond fresh air and playtime. They support cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development in ways that are difficult to replicate indoors. “Outdoor learning gives children permission to explore the world as it is – unpredictable, fascinating, and full of opportunity,” says Ursula Assis, Country Director of Dibber International Preschools South Africa. “When children climb, dig, observe, build, and imagine outdoors, they develop confidence, independence, and the kind of real-life problem-solving skills that stay with them.” Outdoor spaces invite children to notice what’s around them and follow their natural interests. A short walk through a garden or park can become a moment of discovery; for example, insects moving beneath a leaf, stones of different shapes and textures, changing clouds, or a trail of ants carrying food. These observations often lead to questions that come from genuine wonder: why leaves fall, how birds build nests, or where rainwater goes. Unlike structured indoor activities, outdoor learning gives children control to learn through direct experience—developing observation, attention, and deeper curiosity about the world in ways that structured classrooms alone cannot achieve. A key advantage of outdoor learning is that children face challenges and must respond creatively. Balancing, building, or crossing a puddle requires quick thinking and adaptation. These moments develop perseverance and flexibility—skills that support learning and coping after preschool. “When the environment is real, the learning becomes real,” adds Assis. “Children learn to try, to adapt, and to keep going — and those are powerful foundations for life.” Outdoor learning encourages children to take small, age-appropriate risks in a supported environment. Climbing a low hill, navigating playground equipment, or exploring a new path can feel like a major accomplishment to a young child. Every success helps children trust their own abilities. Over time, these experiences build independence and self-belief. Children begin to feel capable, not because they have been told they are, but because they have experienced it for themselves. Being outdoors creates calming, sensory-rich experiences that support emotional regulation and well-being. Listening to birds, feeling the wind, or standing in the shade grounds children in wonder. These experiences help children develop empathy for nature and living things, while forming early values around caring for and being responsible for the environment. Children who spend time outdoors often carry a stronger appreciation for the natural world into later childhood. Outdoor environments naturally encourage cooperation and communication. Whether children are building something together, inventing a group game, or investigating a shared space such as a park or playground at your local restaurant. They practise key social skills: taking turns, listening, negotiating, supporting each other, and solving small conflicts. Outdoor play often encourages teamwork without forcing it. Children learn to join in, lead, follow, and connect, building social confidence through lived experience. At Dibber, outdoor play and exploration form part of the daily rhythm. Carefully designed outdoor spaces support movement, discovery, and imagination while ensuring children feel safe, supported, and free to learn through any and all experiences. “The outdoors invites children to be active learners,” says Assis. “These are the moments where children discover what they can do — and who they are becoming.”

April 6, 2026

The First Six Years Shape Everything That Follows

The early years can feel like a blur: routines, small decisions, and constant adjustment. Yet research across neuroscience, psychology, and education highlights one truth. Early childhood development is not just another phase. It shapes how all future learning and well-being take root. Dibber International Preschools says experiences, relationships, and environments from birth to age six do more than influence development. They help build the brain’s foundation for language, emotional regulation, social intelligence, curiosity, and resilience. “The first six years are when children build the ‘how’ behind everything; how they cope, how they connect, and how they learn,” says Ursula Assis, Country Director of Dibber International Preschools South Africa. These years are not a waiting room for ‘real school’. They are the most developmentally intensive window of childhood, and they deserve thoughtful, heart-led care.” Dibber notes that the brain grows fastest in the first five years. By primary school, about 90% of brain structure is in place, forming the foundation that shapes how children learn and approach life for years ahead. This period is often called a sensitive developmental window. During these years, the brain is highly responsive to experience. It stays capable of change throughout life but is never again as open or influenced by everyday interactions as it is between birth and age six. Early development is not only about skills and knowledge. It is also about learning to feel safe. Dibber explains that when young children experience chronic stress, the brain shifts into an alert state. It starts to prioritise threat detection over exploration. Over time, this can affect attention, memory, and emotional regulation. The opposite is also true: steady warmth, care that responds to the child, and safe feelings help children stay calm and ready to learn. Dibber says it is common to think that what children do not learn now can simply be taught later, just as easily. While growth is always possible, some skills develop best within early windows. Language is a clear example. The brain absorbs language – its sounds and structure – most strongly in the early years. Children in language-rich environments usually develop more confident communication, comprehension, and expression. The same applies to life skills that support learning and relationships: focus, impulse control, cognitive flexibility, empathy, and a healthy sense of self. These are part of a child’s lifelong toolkit, shaped through daily interactions. Dibber emphasises that quality in early childhood development is not about pressure or academic acceleration. The best environments share a few key qualities: warm relationships with trusted adults; open-ended, child-led play; language-rich conversations where questions matter; calm, inviting spaces for exploration; and freedom to try, fail, try again, and feel quiet pride in I can. “The early years lay the deep structure of how a child thinks, feels, relates and learns,” says Assis. “When childhood is respected, when play is protected, and relationships are steady, children don’t just get ready for school. They get ready for life.”

April 2, 2026

Autism Awareness Month: What Acceptance Actually Looks Like at Home

Every April, the world turns its attention to autism. The blue lights come on. The social media posts go up. Schools run assemblies. Companies share infographics. And somewhere in the middle of it all, you’re still trying to get your child’s shoes on before the school run. Autism Awareness Month matters. But for the parents living it every day, awareness was never really the problem. You’re aware. You’ve been aware since the first sleepless Google search, the first assessment, the first time someone said “have you considered…”. What you actually need is acceptance. And not the hashtag kind. The kind that shows up in the small, unglamorous moments of daily life. Awareness vs. Acceptance: What’s the Difference? Awareness says: “I know autism exists.” Acceptance says: “I’m going to make space for what that actually means – for your child, in your home, in your school, in your life.” Awareness is a poster on a wall. Acceptance is the teacher who reads your child’s profile before the first day of term and adjusts without being asked. It’s the family member who stops saying “but they look so normal” and starts asking “how can I help?” It’s the therapist who listens to what’s working at home, not just what’s in the textbook. Acceptance lives in the detail. And it starts at home. What Acceptance Looks Like in Your House Here’s the thing nobody tells you: acceptance isn’t a moment. It’s not a switch you flip after diagnosis. It’s something you build, bit by bit, on the hard days and the good ones. It’s letting go of the timeline. Your child’s milestones won’t always match the chart on the paediatrician’s wall. That’s not failure, that’s their story unfolding at their pace. The comparison trap is real, and stepping out of it is one of the most powerful things you can do. It’s trusting your instincts. You know your child better than any report can capture. When something feels off, or when something is working, that knowledge matters. Don’t let it get drowned out by professional opinions that only see a slice of who your child is. It’s being honest about the hard stuff. Acceptance doesn’t mean pretending everything is fine. Some days are brutal. Meltdowns are exhausting. Admin is relentless. Saying “this is hard” isn’t the opposite of acceptance, it’s part of it. It’s celebrating what others might miss. The first time they made eye contact with the waiter. The sentence that came out of nowhere after months of silence. The fact that they tried the new food, even if they spat it out. These moments are enormous, and you don’t need anyone’s permission to treat them that way. What Acceptance Looks Like Beyond Your Front Door Home is one thing. But your child doesn’t exist in a bubble — they move through schools, therapy rooms, family gatherings, and a care system that doesn’t always join the dots. Real acceptance means the people around your child see the full picture, not just a diagnosis or a set of challenges. It means their teacher knows what lights them up, not just what triggers a meltdown. It means the occupational therapist knows what happened at school last week before the session starts. It means you’re not the only person carrying all of that context in your head. That’s exhausting work. And too often, it falls entirely on you. The Invisible Load of “Awareness” Here’s what Autism Awareness Month rarely talks about: the sheer weight of being the person who holds everything together. You’re the translator between the school and the speech therapist. The administrator who files every report, chases every referral, remembers every medication change. The advocate who has explained your child’s needs so many times you could do it in your sleep, and sometimes you practically do, at 11pm, drafting yet another email. That load is invisible. And in a month dedicated to awareness, it deserves to be seen. Small Shifts That Make a Real Difference You don’t need to overhaul your life this April. But here are a few things worth considering: Share the context, not just the crisis. The people supporting your child do better work when they can see beyond the appointment or the classroom. A short note about what’s changed at home — sleep patterns, a new anxiety, a breakthrough — can shift the quality of support your child receives. Let people in. Not everyone, and not all at once. But the right people — the teacher who cares, the therapist who gets it, the family member who’s willing to learn. Give them the information they need to show up properly. Stop carrying it alone. This one is easier said than done. But if there’s one thing this month could mean for you, let it be this: you were never supposed to be the only one holding the full picture of your child’s world. Your Child’s Story Deserves More Than a Month Autism Awareness Month will end. The blue lights will switch off. The social media posts will slow down. But your child’s story keeps going. It unfolds every single day — at home, at school, in therapy, in the car, at bedtime, in all the places that don’t fit neatly into an awareness campaign. That story deserves to be seen, understood, and supported all year round. Not just by you, but by everyone who plays a part in your child’s life. Dalza gives peace of mind to parents of children who learn, think, move, or communicate a little differently. One shared space where your child’s care team can see the full picture — so you’re not the only one holding it all together. Find out more at dalza.com

April 2, 2026

Panado®’s New Pocket-Sized Power Sachets, Keep Parents Prepared for Pain Or Fever Anytime, Anywhere

Panado® understands that even with the best planning, pain or fever in children can still catch you by surprise. A fever can spike late at night. Teething pain can strike on a weekend away. A temperature can creep up mid-shop, a headache can hit halfway through a long car trip, or a small burn can turn a relaxed afternoon into a stressful one. Readiness means having a plan in place for when children don’t feel well, wherever they happen to be. Being pain and fever ready isn’t about expecting the worst. It is about knowing that common childhood symptoms are part of growing up, and that understanding how to manage them can take much of the fear and anxiety out of the moment1a. When parents feel calmer and more in control, children feel safer too1b. The calm spreads, easing stress and helping everyone cope better until your little one feels well again1c. To support readiness in everyday family life, Panado® has introduced the perfect backup every parent needs, offering a practical way to manage pain and fever anytime, anywhere – Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets2. Each sachet contains a single 5 ml dose of Panado® Strawberry Syrup2, powered by paracetamol, an ingredient with more than 150 years of clinical experience3. The sachets are sealed, hygienic, compact, simple to store and easy to carry, making them ideal for travel and day-to-day outings. Containing the same trusted4 formulation, strength and berry nice flavour parents are familiar with, the Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets2 are ready to work immediately5 and are suitable for babies and children from three months and older. Slip one into a pocket, handbag, nappy bag, backpack, pram organiser, or car console and you’re always prepared. There is no bottle to pack and no risk of spills. When needed, a sachet is torn or cut open, the correct dose is measured using a syringe or medicine measure, and any remaining liquid is discarded. To help parents feel confident, dosing is based on a child’s age and weight. Clear guidance is available via the panado.co.za/dosage-calculator online or by scanning the QR code on the pack, reducing guesswork at moments when you want reassurance. The sachets are part of the Panado® paediatric range, which includes Panado® Strawberry Syrup2, Panado® Peppermint6, suitable from Day 1 and Panado® Infant Drops7. Panado® Infant Drops were named a Product of the Year 2025 winner in the Child Health category8, based on votes from 2,000 South African consumers in a Kantar survey. When a child has pain or fever, readiness is about having something familiar you can rely on, without scrambling or second guessing. Panado® Strawberry 5 ml Sachets2 supports that peace of mind by fitting into real family life, not just the medicine cupboard at home, so you can focus less on the moment of panic and more on comforting your child. Panado® products are available from Baby City, Pick n Pay, Checkers including Hypers, Shoprite, Clicks, Dis-Chem and independent pharmacies. For more information, visit: https://panado.co.za/ and join the conversations on Facebook. For references and legal disclaimers, visit https://panado.co.za/references. Approval ticket # 02.20261000004930. February 2026.

April 1, 2026

Understanding Attention Levels in the Early Stages of Childhood

Parents often worry when a toddler doesn’t listen or seems distracted. Dibber International Preschools reminds families that attention and listening skills develop gradually, and that what appears to be inattention is often a normal part of early childhood development. “Attention is not something children either have or don’t have, it’s a skill that grows with time, practice and the right environment,” says Ursula Assis, Country Director at Dibber International Preschools South Africa. “When adults understand what attention looks like at different ages, they can respond with more patience and less pressure, and children feel safer and more capable.” Attention is a child’s ability to focus on an activity, sound, object, or instruction for a period. In the early years, attention and listening form the foundation for everyday learning – from following simple instructions and taking turns, to participating in play and engaging in classroom routines. At Dibber, educators see attention as part of holistic development, supported by a stable rhythm, calm transitions, language-rich interactions, and play-based learning. 0–12 months: brief focus and quick shifts Babies are learning to process the world for the first time. Their attention is naturally short and easily redirected by a new sound, bright object, or familiar voice. They may quieten, turn towards a caregiver’s voice, or track movement, but not for long. Dibber encourages caregivers and parents to support this stage with calm, close connections, slow speech, expressive facial cues, and quieter spaces where babies can notice sounds without feeling too overwhelmed. For families in busy homes, even small changes can make a difference. This is called 60-second quiet rituals – micro-habits that are simple to try each day. For example, try turning down the television or music for just one minute, setting aside a single minute for quiet play or reading in a cosy spot, or creating a brief routine where you connect without background distractions. These quick and intentional pauses help babies notice sounds and faces, even when the environment is lively, making it easy for parents to experiment and see what works for their family. 1–2 years: deep focus on what matters to them Toddlers often become intensely absorbed in play and may not respond immediately when called. This is not defiance, it’s concentration. At this age, switching attention between activities can be difficult. “Calling a child’s name, pausing, and waiting for eye contact before giving instructions can make a remarkable difference,” says Assis. “This small habit helps children learn how to shift their focus without feeling rushed.” 2–3 years: growing flexibility and early listening routines As toddlers approach three, they begin to show more flexibility – they can pause play, listen briefly, and return to what they were doing. However, they still struggle to hold multiple instructions in mind at once. Simple, single-step instructions work best, especially when paired with actions, routines, or visual cues. Songs, short stories, and listening games can also strengthen attention in gentle, enjoyable ways. 3+ years: stronger focus and decision-making From age three onwards, children typically become more able to sustain attention and follow brief instructions, even with some distractions around them. They also start making small decisions about where to direct their attention, which supports independence and confidence. There will still be moments that require reminders, but encouragement and positive reinforcement support growth far more effectively than repeated correction. “At Dibber, the message to parents is reassuring,” Assis adds. “Every child develops at their own pace. With warmth, consistency, and supportive environments, children learn to focus, listen, and engage with the world with growing confidence.” To learn more about Dibber’s play-based approach and family support, visit www.dibber.co.za.

March 26, 2026

March/April Holiday Fun: Safe and Stimulating Activities for Young Explorers

As the South African autumn settles in and the first term of 2026 draws to a close, parents across the Western Cape asking the same question! “How am i going to entertain my kids this year?” With the official 2026 school calendar scheduling the break from 27 March to 8 April, the window for adventure is perfectly timed for young explorers. At PlayStation by Rush in Kirstenhof, we’ve designed a world where safety meets stimulation, offering the premier destination for indoor activities 2–9 yrs. Why Structured Indoor Play Is Vital For Development For toddlers and foundation-phase learners, play is a full-time job. It is the primary way they process the world around them. According to the Thrive by Five Index, a leading South African study on preschool outcomes, only about 45% of children in early learning programmes are meeting the expected standards for their age. This highlights a critical need for environments that support gross motor development and executive function outside the classroom. Choosing the right toddler play venues isn’t just about burning off energy; it’s about providing a “metaphoric multivitamin” for the brain. Structured indoor environments allow children to test their physical limits-like climbing, sliding, and balancing- in a space where “falling” is just part of the learning process Imaginative Play Activities: More Than Just “Make-Believe” At PlayStation by Rush, we believe that a cardboard box can be a spaceship, and our high-line course can be a mountain peak. These imaginative play activities are essential for building cognitive flexibility. When a child engages in role-play, they aren’t just “pretending”; they are practicing social scripts, developing empathy, and sharpening their language skills. The Adventure Maze: A Masterclass in Problem Solving Our custom-built Adventure Maze—the largest of its kind in South Africa—is designed specifically to challenge the “little person” logic. As children navigate swing bridges and hidden tunnels, they are working on spatial awareness and sequencing. “How do I get to the yellow slide from here?” is a complex engineering problem for a four-year-old. By solving it, they build the confidence needed for more formal academic challenges later in life. Stress-Free Parenting During the School Holidays We know that for many South African parents, the school holidays don’t always mean a break from work. While the kids are off enjoying the holidays, the “real world” for parents keeps spinning. Most parents in SA do not get time off when school holidays are in play. This is why we have prioritised a “Play like it should be” philosophy that includes the grown-ups too. Secure Your Spot for the March/April Break The upcoming holiday period, including the Easter long weekend (3–6 April), is one of our busiest times of the year. To ensure a high-quality experience for every child, we limit our intake to avoid overcrowding. This means our peak slots fill up fast! Don’t let the school holidays catch you off guard. Whether you’re looking for a single-hour session or a full morning of adventure, we recommend booking your tickets in advance. Ready to give your young explorer an unforgettable holiday? View our holiday specials and book your playtime today! CTA: Book Stimulating Activities For Toddlers today

March 25, 2026

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cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional	11 months	The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy	11 months	The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.

Cookie	Duration	Description
_ga	2 years	This cookie is installed by Google Analytics. The cookie is used to calculate visitor, session, campaign data and keep track of site usage for the site's analytics report. The cookies store information anonymously and assign a randomly generated number to identify unique visitors.
_gid	1 day	This cookie is installed by Google Analytics. The cookie is used to store information of how visitors use a website and helps in creating an analytics report of how the website is doing. The data collected including the number visitors, the source where they have come from, and the pages visted in an anonymous form.

Cookie	Duration	Description
_gat_gtag_UA_18530557_4	1 minute	No description
pron_ip	session	No description
pvc_visits[0]	1 day	This cookie is created by post-views-counter. This cookie is used to count the number of visits to a post. It also helps in preventing repeat views of a post by a visitor.
tk_ai	session	Gathers information for WordPress by themselves, first party analytics tool about how WP services are used. A collection of internal metrics for user activity, used to improve user experience.