Twinkl

Discover the Magic of Twinkl Literary Classics for Little Learners

Step into a world of wonder and imagination with the Twinkl Literary Classics for Little Learners range — a beautifully curated collection of timeless tales thoughtfully adapted to ignite a love of reading in young children. This range offers a gentle introduction to some of literature’s most cherished stories, designed to nurture curiosity, empathy, and a lifelong passion for books. Why Introduce Classic Literature to Little Learners? In an age where digital distractions are everywhere, sharing classic stories with children opens a door to rich storytelling traditions, diverse cultures, and timeless life lessons. These beloved tales connect readers to historical contexts, moral dilemmas, and universal themes, helping children explore complex emotions and understand the world through different perspectives. Reading classic literature at a young age can also enhance language development and vocabulary, introducing children to beautiful, expressive language they may not encounter elsewhere. The vivid imagery and memorable characters spark imagination and creativity, encouraging children to dream big and think beyond their immediate surroundings. Moreover, these stories help build resilience and moral reasoning as children witness characters navigating challenges, making difficult decisions, and growing through adversity. This not only fosters empathy but also empowers young readers to see themselves as capable of kindness, bravery, and perseverance in their own lives.  Thoughtfully Adapted for Young Readers The Twinkl Literary Classics for Little Learners range carefully reimagines classic tales to suit young audiences. We’ve simplified intricate subplots, adjusted complex themes, and ensured the language remains accessible and engaging for early readers — all while preserving the heart and essence of each original story.  Sensitive and Age-Appropriate Storytelling We understand that some classic tales touch on challenging themes like loss, conflict, or hardship. Rest assured, any sensitive content has been handled with care, softened to align with the emotional maturity of younger readers. When pivotal to the plot, these themes are presented gently, providing an opportunity for meaningful conversations without overwhelming little minds. Shared Reading and Meaningful Conversations Reading these stories together can be a special bonding experience. As you turn the pages with your child, you can explore big ideas, answer curious questions, and encourage thoughtful discussions. This shared experience helps foster critical thinking and emotional growth, allowing children to reflect on the story’s characters, choices, and underlying messages. Sparking a Lifelong Love of Literature Above all, the Twinkl Literary Classics for Little Learners range is designed to inspire joy and wonder. We hope these adaptations become treasured favourites in your home, laying the foundation for a lifetime of literary exploration. After all, stories have the power to captivate, comfort, and empower — and every child deserves the chance to discover the magic of books. The range of Twinkl Literary Classics for Little Learners can be found here: https://www.twinkl.co.za/l/yxsux

Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

Reasons why your baby is crying

The following information is to be used as a guide to and at the discretion of the end-user and should not replace a doctor’s opinion. If your baby is crying, the first step is trying to figure out the reason.  Some of the most common reasons why a baby is crying are: Hunger is usually the first thing you should think of – they may give other signs first like rooting, fussing, smacking their lips and putting their hands to their lips. A dirty diaper – many infants don’t like a wet or dirty diaper, so changing their diaper when they cry is a simple thing you can do to help calm them. In need of sleep – babies may not just nod off to sleep when they are tired, they may get fussy and cry, so after feeding and changing diapers you may want to try soothing activities like finding a quiet place, holding them close and rocking them to help them get to sleep. Wanting to be held – babies like to be cuddled, so if you have tried all of the above tips without success it could be that your baby just wants you to hold and cuddle them; also talk in a soft voice or sing softly. Tummy troubles – babies can develop gas pains, colic, constipation, milk allergies and other conditions that make them cry; if this happens often talk with your doctor about ways you can soothe their tummy. Needing to burp – a trapped gas bubble in your baby’s stomach can make them uncomfortable, so if they are crying after a feeding, try burping them to see if that helps. Additional reasons are mentioned in the following tip. Additional reasons why your baby is crying The following information is to be used as a guide to and at the discretion of the end-user and should not replace a doctor’s opinion. In addition to the reasons mentioned in the previous tip, the following are reasons why your baby may be crying: Temperature troubles – babies will often cry if they are too cold, this may happen when you are changing them or washing them; it can also happen if they are too hot, though this is less common. Little irritations – babies are very sensitive to small discomforts like a hair wrapped around a finger or toe, scratchy clothing or being placed in the wrong position, so look for little discomforts if the big things don’t appear to be the cause of their distress. Teething – newborns don’t have teeth coming in but sometimes their teeth will move around under the gums causing them discomfort; their teeth won’t usually start to come in until they are about 4-7 months; a cold washcloth and gentle pressure on their gums may be soothing. Over stimulation – newborns can’t always process all the things that are going on around them, so if you think your baby may be suffering from too much stimulation take them to a quiet spot away from bright lights, hold them close and soothe them until they can calm down. Not enough stimulation – some babies are outgoing and like to see what’s going on around them, so if you think this is your baby’s issue try carrying them in a sling, front carrier or backpack so they can get the extra stimulation they need. Not feeling well – if you’ve met all your baby’s basic needs and they are still crying and fussy they could be coming down with something, so keep a close eye on them, check their temperature if you think they might have a fever and contact your doctor if needed. Things to try to comfort a crying baby The following information is to be used as a guide to and at the discretion of the end-user and should not replace a doctor’s opinion. Sucking is soothing for a baby and can lower their heart rate and relax their stomach, so give them a pacifier or a clean finger to suck on when nothing else seems to stop their crying. Babies are used to being warm and secure in the womb so when all else fails try imitating that experience by swaddling them and holding them securely or carry them with you in a sling. Some babies respond well to sound and movement, so try putting on some music and dancing with them – gently of course! Try white noise – often babies like noises that mimic the whooshing sounds they heard before they were born, so try running the vacuum cleaner, a fan or the water faucet or use a recording of a water fountain, a gurgling stream or waves. A change of scenery can sometimes help, so dress your baby appropriately and step outside your front door; walk around slowly and talk in a soothing tone. Get them moving – babies like motion so try carrying them around or take them for a ride in the stroller or the car; sometime this will work when nothing else seems to help. Massage may be helpful for some babies – don’t worry about knowing the right movements, just try a soft, gentle massage in a warm place free from drafts. Start all over again – sometimes it’s helpful just to start at the top of the list again; change their diaper, hold them close, feed them if their hungry and see if something works the second time around. If you ever think your baby is in distress because of a health-related issue don’t hesitate to contact your doctor. No question is ever “dumb” if it involves the wellbeing of your baby! Feeling frustrated when a baby won’t stop crying The following information is to be used as a guide to and at the discretion of the end-user and should not replace a doctor’s opinion. Keep in mind that crying won’t hurt your baby, they may just need a release so let them cry. Put your baby down and let

Parenting Hub

Why Kids Love Watching the Same Shows on Repeat (and Why It’s Okay)

Children often exhibit a strong preference for watching the same television shows repeatedly, a behaviour that can puzzle and sometimes concern parents. However, this tendency is rooted in developmental benefits and serves various psychological and cognitive functions. Understanding the reasons behind this repetitive viewing can help parents appreciate its value and manage screen time effectively. The Comfort of Familiarity Repetition provides children with a sense of predictability and security. In a world that is often new and unpredictable to them, familiar shows offer a safe environment where they know what to expect. This familiarity can be especially comforting during times of change or stress, helping to regulate emotions and provide stability. Enhancing Comprehension and Learning Repeated viewing allows children to grasp narratives and concepts more deeply. Each repetition offers an opportunity to understand the storyline better, recognise nuances, and anticipate outcomes, which enhances comprehension skills. This process mirrors how repetition is used in educational settings to reinforce learning. For instance, the children’s program “Blue’s Clues” was designed with repetition in mind. Research indicated that repeated viewings of the same episode improved children’s problem-solving abilities and increased audience participation. Children became more skilled at solving similar problems not presented in the episode after multiple viewings. This approach demonstrated that repetition could foster empowerment and engagement in young viewers. en.wikipedia.org Building Confidence and Mastery When children watch the same show repeatedly, they become familiar with the content, which can boost their confidence. Anticipating what happens next and understanding character motivations provide a sense of mastery. This mastery is satisfying and encourages them to apply similar skills in new situations, promoting cognitive development. Emotional Regulation and Coping Mechanism Familiar shows can serve as a tool for emotional regulation. Children may turn to beloved programs to soothe themselves when they are upset or anxious. The predictability of the content provides a calming effect, helping them manage their emotions more effectively. Parental Perspectives and Nostalgia Many parents are turning to TV shows from the ’90s and early 2000s for their children as a gentler alternative to today’s stimulating programming. Classic shows like “Franklin,” “Little Bear,” and “Max & Ruby” offer a calming and soothing viewing experience, appealing to parents seeking a break from fast-paced content. These slower-paced shows can enhance children’s focus and emotional regulation, making them developmentally beneficial. parents.com Cognitive Benefits of Repetitive Viewing Watching certain types of television content, such as game shows like “Jeopardy!” and “Wheel of Fortune,” can boost cognitive health. These shows enhance problem-solving skills, improve memory, and strengthen the mind by requiring viewers to pay close attention and process information quickly. Engaging in these activities can boost mental acuity and help with accessing stored information faster, which is particularly beneficial for older adults. nypost.com Recommendations for Parents While repetitive viewing has its benefits, it’s essential to maintain a balanced media diet. Here are some recommendations for parents: In conclusion, children’s inclination to watch the same shows repeatedly is a natural behaviour that supports various aspects of their development. Recognising the benefits of this repetition can help parents make informed decisions about media consumption and appreciate the positive role it plays in their child’s growth. Sources

Cartoon Network Africa

Pokémon Horizons: A New Season of Adventure Awaits!

The journey continues in the exciting new season of Pokémon Horizons, as Liko and Roy set out on a global quest to uncover the mysteries of the Six Hero Pokémon and the legendary land of Laqua. But along the way, new challenges and powerful opponents will put their Pokémon Trainer skills to the test like never before! New Challenges and Powerful Battles Await! As Liko, Roy, and their friend Dot continue their adventure, they encounter a thrilling new challenge—Tera Training! 🌟🔥 To grow as stronger Trainers, they must master Terastallization and battle against some of the region’s toughest Gym Leaders. But their journey isn’t just about training. The Rising Volt Tacklers are also resuming their pursuit of the legendary Six Heroes, including the black Rayquaza. As they race to uncover the secrets of Terapagos, they must outmaneuver the Explorers, who are determined to find Laqua first! When & Where to Watch? 📅 Premiere Date: Saturday, 26 April 2025📺 Tune-in: Weekends @ 10:15 CAT🎥 Episodes: Season 2, Episodes 1-15 (15×22’) Don’t Miss This Epic Pokémon Adventure! With powerful battles, new discoveries, and high-stakes rivalries, this season of Pokémon Horizons is not to be missed! Join Liko, Roy, and their Pokémon partners as they push their limits, unlock new abilities, and search for legendary secrets in this action-packed new season!

Wingu Academy

Online Schooling vs. Homeschooling: Which is the Better Choice for Your Child in South Africa?

In South Africa, parents seeking alternatives to traditional schooling are often faced with two choices: online schooling and home schooling. While both offer flexibility and a personalised approach to education, the two models are distinctly different. Understanding these differences is crucial in making the best decision for your child’s future. Wingu Academy, as a leading provider of online education, offers an innovative platform that combines the benefits of online schooling with the structure and support many families seek. Let’s explore the key differences and see why Wingu Academy is a game-changer in modern education. What is Home Schooling? Home schooling involves parents taking full responsibility for their child’s education. This means sourcing curricula, teaching lessons, assessing progress, and ensuring compliance with South African education laws. While home schooling offers freedom in pacing and content, it also places significant demands on parents in terms of time, expertise, and resources. What is Online Schooling? Online schooling, on the other hand, leverages digital platforms to provide structured education led by qualified teachers. Students access lessons, assignments, and resources online, often following an established curriculum. Wingu Academy is a prime example of online schooling done right, offering a seamless blend of technology, expertise, and personalised support. Key Differences Between Online Schooling and Home Schooling Curriculum and Structure Role of the Parent Access to Resources Social Interaction Regulatory Compliance Why Choose Wingu Academy for Online Schooling? Wingu Academy combines the flexibility of home schooling with the structure and quality of traditional schools, creating the ultimate educational solution for modern families: What Parents Say About Wingu Academy Our commitment to excellence has earned us the trust of families across South Africa. Here are some testimonials from Hello Peter: While both home schooling and online schooling have their merits, online schooling through Wingu Academy offers a balanced approach that ensures academic excellence, safety, and holistic development. By combining flexibility with expert guidance and innovative tools, Wingu empowers students to achieve their full potential without compromising on quality or support. If you’re ready to take the next step in your child’s education journey, explore Wingu Academy today. Let’s shape a brighter future together! Join the Wingulian community! Online schools like Wingu Academy are redefining what it means to build a community in education. By leveraging technology to break down barriers, fostering inclusivity, and creating opportunities for meaningful connections, Wingu ensures that students not only excel academically but also develop the interpersonal skills and global awareness they need for the future. For families seeking more than just an education, Wingu Academy offers a transformative experience where students are part of a vibrant, supportive community that celebrates diversity and fosters lifelong learning. In the world of online schooling, Wingu isn’t just a platform—it’s a place where connections thrive and barriers disappear. Take the First Step Towards Success: Enroll at Wingu Academy Today and Unlock Your Child’s Potential! Email: [email protected] Call: 087 147 1668 Book a consultation: [Link]

Parenting Hub

Why Kids Need More Outdoor Play (and How to Make It Happen)

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, children are spending more time indoors than ever before. Increased screen time, structured schedules, and safety concerns have contributed to a decline in outdoor play. However, outdoor play is crucial for a child’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It promotes healthy development, enhances social skills, and fosters a deeper connection with the natural world. This article explores the importance of outdoor play and provides practical ways for parents and educators to encourage kids to spend more time outside. The Benefits of Outdoor Play 1. Physical Health and Development Outdoor play provides children with plenty of opportunities for movement, which is essential for their physical health. Activities such as running, climbing, jumping, and balancing improve: According to the Centre’s for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day to support healthy growth and development【1】. Outdoor play naturally encourages kids to be active, reducing their risk of childhood obesity and related health issues. 2. Mental and Emotional Well-Being Spending time in nature has been linked to reduced stress, anxiety, and depression. Studies show that exposure to green spaces improves children’s mood, concentration, and self-esteem. The American Psychological Association (APA) highlights that outdoor play helps regulate emotions, making children more resilient in handling everyday challenges【2】. Additionally, children who engage in unstructured outdoor play experience lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, helping them feel calmer and more balanced【3】. 3. Cognitive and Academic Benefits Outdoor play stimulates curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills. When children explore nature, they encounter new sights, sounds, and textures, encouraging critical thinking and sensory development. Research from Harvard University suggests that time spent outdoors improves attention span and memory, which translates to better performance in school【4】. Activities such as building forts, observing insects, and playing in the dirt ignite a child’s imagination and encourage self-directed learning. 4. Social Skills and Emotional Intelligence Outdoor play provides opportunities for children to interact with peers, develop friendships, and practice cooperation. Through group games, role-playing, and shared adventures, kids learn essential social skills such as: Studies show that children who engage in regular outdoor play are more likely to develop strong interpersonal skills and form positive relationships【5】. 5. Connection to Nature and Environmental Awareness Regular exposure to nature helps children develop a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the environment. Kids who spend time outdoors are more likely to: According to the National Wildlife Federation, children who play outside frequently are more likely to care about protecting the planet as they grow【6】. Barriers to Outdoor Play Despite its numerous benefits, many children struggle to get enough outdoor time. Some common barriers include: Understanding these barriers is the first step toward creating solutions that encourage outdoor play. How to Encourage More Outdoor Play 1. Make Outdoor Play a Daily Habit 2. Provide Engaging Outdoor Activities Make outdoor play fun and exciting by offering different activities, such as: These activities stimulate creativity and keep kids engaged. 3. Organise Playdates and Group Activities Children are more likely to enjoy outdoor play when they have friends to play with. Plan: Social play helps kids develop relationships and look forward to outdoor activities. 4. Create an Inviting Outdoor Space Make your backyard or local park a fun and safe environment for play: A child-friendly space encourages regular outdoor engagement. 5. Lead by Example Children imitate adult behaviour, so if they see parents enjoying outdoor activities, they’ll be more inclined to join. 6. Limit Screen Time To create a balance between screen time and outdoor play: Conclusion Outdoor play is not just a fun pastime—it’s a critical part of a child’s development. It supports physical health, mental well-being, social skills, and cognitive growth. Unfortunately, modern lifestyles have significantly reduced children’s exposure to nature and free play, but parents and educators can take intentional steps to reintroduce outdoor activities. Sources

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