Parenting Hub

Curro Durbanville Preschool’s revamp creates a space where little ones feel right at home

For little learners, the early years are all about exploration, discovery, and feeling safe and cared for. At Curro Durbanville Preschool, we’ve redesigned our setting to support children not just in their learning journey, but as individuals growing in confidence and independence. Here, learning happens naturally through play, creativity, and meaningful connections, all within an environment that nurtures curiosity. We’ve reimagined every corner to inspire young learners while providing the security and warmth they need to take their first steps into early development. Our preschool is not merely a place to learn; it’s a place where every child feels valued, respected, and supported. With careful attention to every detail from the classroom layout to the choice of materials being used by the little ones, we’ve designed it with the intent to foster independence, creativity, and confidence. “We’ve seen that the best learning happens when children feel completely comfortable,” says Riaan Stroebel, Executive Head at Curro Durbanville. “Not only physically safe, but emotionally at ease. When they’re relaxed, that’s when the magic happens.” The layout and design of the preschool play an active role in teaching, with thoughtfully crafted areas that respond to each child’s needs, from floor plans to furnishings. Every element in our classrooms is built with the purpose of sparking inquisitiveness and supporting young learners as they take their first steps in education. We know how hectic mornings can be, which is why our newly revamped preschool is designed with busy parents in mind. From dedicated drop-off zones and separate entrances that make arrivals quick and stress-free, to upgraded security and spotless facilities that offer comfort and peace of mind, every detail helps make your day a little easier. And when it is time for your child to move on to Grade R, the transition is smooth and reassuring, with the primary school steps away on the same premises. From their very first splash to becoming confident swimmers, our lessons for 4- and 5-year-olds and Grade R learners build self-trust while keeping safety a top priority. Guided by experienced instructors, children learn in a supervised environment that encourages both skill development and joyful movement. Our music lessons and GROW physical development sessions aren’t simply extras; they’re part of the daily rhythm that shapes each child’s growth. Alongside swimming, these activities nurture more than skills; they foster body awareness, confidence, and a spirit of discovery – all within a safe and caring setting where learning feels like an adventure. “Learning is about more than simply gaining knowledge; it’s about creating a place where children feel safe, inspired to explore, and empowered to discover the world around them,” says Stroebel. “Every corner of our preschool has been designed with love and care, ensuring that our young learners experience the joy of discovery while feeling a true sense of belonging.” At Curro Durbanville Preschool, we believe that every child deserves a nurturing environment that supports their growth, celebrates their unique abilities, and helps them feel loved and at ease. Our preschool is more than a place to learn; it’s a community where children grow, thrive, and feel truly welcomed and cared for.

Hatfield Online School

How to Make a Success of Online Schooling – Time Management

At Hatfield Online School we place most of the responsibility on the shoulders of our students, to ensure that they manage their time and their schooling well. And that’s a good thing! Our vision is to produce young adults who are confident and responsible, and who will go out and impact the world for the better! One of the key aspects for thriving in an online setting is time management. You may think that being in Hatfield Online School means you can work flexibly anywhere and at any time. That is true! However, this doesn’t mean you will work any less than in a “normal” school… In fact, you are expected to put in the same number of hours that you would if you were enrolled in a brick-and-mortar school – roughly 7 to 8 hours of “class time”, followed by extra homework time each day.  It can be difficult to make sure you work enough, but also to not overwork yourself, if you don’t follow a timetable. Therefore, we recommend that you use a timetable (in fact – we provide some templates) to ensure that you spend enough time each week going through your lessons and activities. As well as using a timetable to structure your day, we recommend that you keep a diary / online calendar for managing deadlines for your activities. Each subject you take will have at least one activity per lesson which needs to be submitted each Friday. This can result in a LOT of activities to keep track of. Therefore, it is important for you to list these deadlines at the start of every week, so that you can keep track of your progress. Does your child need the kind of education that surpasses, and escapes the confines of the traditional classroom? Hatfield Online School not only bridges the gap between the present and the future, but also the gap between a world-class education and affordability. Please contact us to find out more about world-class online IEB education for your child, from as little as R2 295 per month for full time tuition, or from R590 per month per single subject: [email protected]

Parenting Hub

Balancing Screen Time Without the Battles

In a world where devices are part of learning, play, and socialising, setting boundaries around screen time has become one of parenting’s trickiest tasks. For many families, it’s a daily negotiation—or worse, a meltdown. But here’s the good news: with the right mindset and tools, you can guide your child’s screen use in a way that supports their development without the constant conflict. 1. Start With a Family Plan, Not a Punishment Rather than issuing limits as strict rules, try building a family media plan together. Involve your child in setting expectations—they’re far more likely to follow boundaries they helped create. Include things like: 💬 Tip: The American Academy of Pediatrics offers a free online Family Media Plan tool to help guide this conversation. 2. Be Clear—and Consistent Kids do best when they know what to expect. If your rule is “30 minutes of games after homework,” then stick to it. When limits constantly shift, it opens the door to arguing or negotiating. Use timers if needed—and let the timer be the “bad guy,” not you. 3. Model the Behaviour You Want to See Children often mimic adult habits. If you’re checking your phone during meals or scrolling in bed, it becomes harder to explain why they shouldn’t do the same. Show them what healthy tech boundaries look like by practising them yourself. 4. Shift the Focus From Control to Connection When kids resist turning off a screen, it’s often because they’re deeply engaged. Rather than issuing a cold “time’s up,” try to connect first: This helps them transition more smoothly and feel respected. 5. Offer Engaging Alternatives Instead of just taking the screen away, replace it with something. Keep puzzles, art supplies, books, or outdoor toys easily accessible. Sometimes boredom sparks creativity—especially when screens aren’t the fallback. 6. Be Flexible, Not Fearful Not all screen time is bad. Educational games, connecting with family via video chat, or making digital art can be valuable experiences. Focus on what they’re doing, not just how much. Final Thought: Balancing screen time doesn’t have to feel like a constant tug-of-war. With a thoughtful approach that includes structure, empathy, and flexibility, you can turn screen-time struggles into healthy digital habits—without the drama. 📚 Sources:

Parenting Hub

Creating Calm: Mindfulness Activities for Children

Life can feel overwhelming—not just for adults, but for children too. From school pressures to overstimulating environments, kids are often carrying more stress than we realise. The good news? Mindfulness can help children feel more grounded, focused, and emotionally aware. And it doesn’t have to mean sitting in silence for 20 minutes. In fact, the most effective mindfulness activities for children are simple, playful, and age-appropriate. Here are some practical ways to help your child build calm from the inside out. 1. Belly Breathing with a Soft Toy Ideal for toddlers and young children, this activity teaches basic deep breathing in a visual and tactile way. How it works:Have your child lie down and place a soft toy on their belly. Ask them to slowly breathe in and out, watching the toy rise and fall. 🗣 Try saying: “Let’s see if we can rock your teddy to sleep with your breath.” 2. Glitter Jar for Calming Big Emotions A classic mindfulness tool that gives kids a way to see their feelings settle. How it works:Fill a jar with water, glitter glue, and loose glitter. When your child feels upset or overstimulated, let them shake the jar and watch the glitter slowly fall. This creates a calming pause and teaches patience. 3. Five Senses Grounding Exercise Perfect for older children and tweens, this technique helps bring attention to the present moment. Ask your child to name: This is especially helpful during moments of anxiety or restlessness. 4. Mindful Nature Walks Turn a simple walk into a mindfulness adventure. Encourage your child to walk slowly and notice the little things—how the leaves crunch, what birds are singing, what the air smells like. You can even turn it into a game: “Can you find something red, something smooth, and something that moves?” 5. “Feelings Check-In” Chart Giving emotions a name helps kids process them better. A simple daily check-in encourages emotional intelligence and communication. You can use a printed emotion wheel, or simply ask:“How are you feeling today, and where do you feel it in your body?” 6. Guided Visualisations Children have strong imaginations—guided visualisation taps into this to help them relax. Try short audio meditations where they imagine floating on a cloud, lying in a meadow, or traveling to a peaceful island. There are plenty of free options on YouTube and child-friendly apps. Final Thought: Mindfulness isn’t about perfection or long periods of silence—it’s about helping children notice their inner world with kindness and curiosity. With gentle guidance and a bit of creativity, these simple tools can create a powerful foundation for calm, confidence, and emotional resilience. 📚 Sources:

Parenting Hub

Early Education Milestones Every Parent Should Know

Watching your child grow and learn is one of the most rewarding parts of parenting. Early education milestones provide helpful markers to understand your child’s development and ensure they’re on track with skills they’ll need in school and life. While every child develops at their own pace, knowing typical milestones can guide you in supporting your child’s learning journey—and alert you early if extra help is needed. Here’s an overview of key early education milestones from birth to age five: Birth to 12 Months: Foundations of Learning 1 to 2 Years: Exploring and Communicating 2 to 3 Years: Building Independence 3 to 4 Years: Developing Skills 4 to 5 Years: Ready for School Tips for Supporting Milestones at Home: When to Seek Help If you notice your child is consistently missing several milestones or seems to struggle with basic skills, consider discussing your concerns with a paediatrician or early childhood specialist. Early intervention can make a significant difference. Final Thought: Knowing early education milestones empowers you as a parent to provide the best support for your child’s growth. Celebrate their unique journey, and enjoy the adventure of learning together! 📚 Sources:

Educ8 SA

Career Development and Planning for the Future: Navigating Your Path to Success

In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing job market, career development and planning have become essential for professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve. With technological advancements, shifting industry landscapes, and evolving job roles, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your career goals and a strategic plan to achieve them. In this advertorial, we’ll explore the importance of career development and planning, and provide insights and tips to help you navigate your path to success. Why Career Development and Planning Matter Career development and planning are critical for several reasons: Steps to Career Development and Planning Tips for Effective Career Development and Planning Benefits of Career Development and Planning The benefits of career development and planning include: Overcoming Career Development Challenges Conclusion Career development and planning are essential for professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve in today’s fast-paced job market. By understanding the importance of career development and planning, and following the steps and tips outlined above, you can navigate your path to success and achieve your career goals. Call to Action If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, here are some steps you can take: By taking these steps, you can start building a successful and fulfilling career that aligns with your goals and aspirations.

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