Advice from the experts

Introducing Sanosan baby skincare range

ntroducing Sanosan baby, kids, and mum’s skincare range in Southern Africa! This skincare range truly cares for you and the planet – every product is designed to be as safe and gentle as possible for your baby. With over 35 years of expertise and a commitment to clinical excellence, Sanosan’s products are rigorously tested and certified under strict European regulations. They are free from parabens, silicones, paraffins, SLS / SLES and phenoxyethanol, and their eco-friendly formulas are 90% natural and use green electricity.  When creating their formulas, Sanosan pays the utmost attention to a high proportion of natural ingredients. They only use active ingredients that are specially tailored to your baby’s skin. Natural milk protein is the central ingredient in Sanosan and is especially nourishing for the skin. Precious substances like organic olive oil and organic olive extract complement these formulations. Sanosan stands for: Cleansing: Two products in one: ideal for gently cleaning baby’s delicate skin and fine hair. 93 % ingredients of natural origin. Benefits of the formulation: Sanosan Bath & Shampoo 200ml – RSP R116,81 Milk protein ensures that even washing your baby is more gentle.  All cleansing products contain active washing substances. But even the mildest washing substances can attack the protective film on a baby’s skin and upset its balance. The milk protein in Sanosan protects against this. Did you know? Sanosan cleansing products contain mild surfactants and preserve the natural protective function of the skin. We do not use SLS (sodium lauryl sulphate) or SLES (sodium laureth sulphate). Sanosan Bath & Shampoo 500ml – RSP R199,00 Two products in one: ideal for gently cleaning baby’s delicate skin and fine hair. 93 % ingredients of natural origin Sanosan Shampoo 200ml – RSP R116,81 With natural milk protein – the best from milk for healthy baby skin. Ideal for gently cleaning baby’s fine hair. For silky, easy to comb hair. 93 % ingredients of natural origin. Benefits of the formulation: Safety first: outstanding compatibility with babies’ skin – clinically tested Milk protein ensures that even washing your baby’s hair is more gentle.  All cleansing products contain active washing substances. But even the mildest washing substances can attack the protective film on a baby’s skin and upset its balance. The milk protein in Sanosan protects against this. Did you know? Sanosan cleansing products contain mild surfactants and preserve the natural protective function of the skin. We do not use SLS (sodium lauryl sulphate) or SLES (sodium laureth sulphate). With organic olive extract. Milk protein ensures that even washing your baby is more gentle.  All cleansing products contain active washing substances. But even the mildest washing substances can attack the protective film on a baby’s skin and upset its balance. The milk protein in Sanosan protects against this. Did you know?Sanosan cleansing products contain mild surfactants and preserve the natural protective function of the skin. We do not use SLS (sodium lauryl sulphate) or SLES (sodium laureth sulphate). With organic olive extract. Care: Your baby’s skin is something very special because its range of functions is not yet fully developed. With the right care, you can support the development of your baby’s skin. Milk protein is nature’s little miracle with a big impact. This is why we use this special ingredient in our Care Lotion. The amino acid chain in milk protein forms a protective layer on baby skin; this considerably reduces moisture loss. Sanosan Care Lotion also contains panthenol and chamomile. They both have a soothing effect on baby’s skin and are traditionally used in baby care. Did you know? Precious ingredients pamper and soothe your baby’s skin and provide moisture 24 hours a day. With natural organic olive oil of the highest quality. Does not contain the preservative phenoxyethanol. Sanosan Care Lotion 500ml – RSP R229,00 For the perfect care of baby’s delicate skin. Moisturises for 24 hours. 96 % ingredients of natural origin. Nappy Change:                      Sanosan Nappy Cream 150ml RSP R174,89 Sanosan Nappy Cream is a rich cream with a high zinc content. It forms an antimicrobial barrier and keeps baby’s bottom dry. Sanosan Nappy Cream does not only contain milk protein, the key ingredient of Sanosan baby products, but also zinc with its excellent characteristics especially for the nappy zone. Did you know? All Sanosan nappy care products help to keep your baby’s bottom dry to avoid inflammation. The zinc content has antimicrobial properties and reduces the growth of microorganisms. Benefits of the formulation: Baby’s skin requires particular care and protection in the first year of life. Special baby care products help to support the not yet fully matured protective function of the skin. Less is more when caring for sensitive skin that is prone to allergies. That is why Sanosan pure+sensitive formulations were especially developed for this type of skin, and tested by leading dermatologists. Anything that could irritate baby’s sensitive skin has been avoided. Sanosan Panthenol Nappy Cream protects and soothes baby’s sensitive skin. It forms a protective layer that repels moisture from the skin. The balancing formulation with the particularly high content of panthenol of 5% and vitamin E soothes the skin and supports its own regeneration. The stressed skin is supplied with sufficient moisture and is protected against dehydration. Sanosan Panthenol Nappy Cream has been clinically tested by an independent dermatological institute and awarded the 5-star Dermatest seal. The five-star seal represents the original DERMATEST® premium segment and means that the product has been successfully tested for at least four weeks under dermatological supervision. Maximum safety for babies with allergy-prone skin. Sanosan KIDS: Sanosan Shower & Shampoo Banana 400 ml – RSP R188,90 Fantastic banana fragrance and proven quality. 93 % ingredients of natural origin. Fun & quality with Sanosan Shower & Shampoo Banana. Kids and mums love it. Children love our cool rabbit Sani and the fruity banana fragrance. Mums love the rich care formula with organic olive extract, milk protein and especially mild cleansing substances that protect childrens’ delicate skin from drying out. Joyful colours, a cool design and mild

November 1, 2024

Pregnancy, your body and your baby – week 40 of your pregnancy

Congratulations, you’ve reached the milestone that you’ve been counting up to from the beginning. It may feel surreal to think that 40 weeks ago you had your last period and now you’re about to welcome your new baby into your life. The third trimester of your pregnancy may have been fairly difficult, as your baby and belly take up more room, and your body adjusts to accommodate your growing little one. Your body at week 40 At week 40 your body is ready to give birth after housing and growing your baby for 9 months. So close to birth you may notice changes in your baby’s fetal movement, however, they will still be moving around, so if you notice a big decrease in movement, contact your doctor. Until birth, you’ll experience typical pregnancy symptoms, including leg cramps, back and pelvic pain, trouble sleeping and diarrhoea, which is normal close to birth. Your baby at week 40 At week 40 your baby is now full-term. When your baby is born you’ll notice that they are covered in a mixture of blood, vernix and amniotic fluid. On average, baby’s at week 40 weigh about 3,5 kg and they’ll be roughly the size of a pumpkin. Even though they are just about to be born, the lungs, liver and brain are still developing. Things to keep in mind at week 40 Labour can be overwhelming, and it’s important to remember that you can do this. While your doctor will have given you a due date, it is possible that your baby won’t arrive on the dot. So make sure that you keep aware of the signs of labour and have your birth plan, hospital bags and any additional plans ready (such as making sure you have someone to look after your other kids if you have).

November 1, 2024

Holiday Travel Tips for Families

The holiday season is a magical time filled with celebrations, gatherings, and the joy of being with loved ones. However, it can also be one of the busiest and most stressful periods for families planning to travel. Whether you’re heading to Grandma’s house, a tropical vacation, or a winter wonderland, thoughtful planning can help make your holiday travels smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential holiday travel tips for families to ensure a stress-free experience. 1. Plan Early One of the keys to successful holiday travel is planning ahead. Book your flights, accommodations, and rental cars as early as possible to secure the best rates and availability. The earlier you plan, the more options you’ll have for travel times and locations. Create a checklist of what you need to book and accomplish before the trip, including packing lists, itineraries, and travel documents. 2. Choose Your Travel Times Wisely Traveling during peak holiday times can lead to long lines and crowded airports or roads. If possible, try to schedule your travels during off-peak times. Flying on Christmas Day or the day after New Year’s, or leaving early in the morning or late at night, can help you avoid the busiest travel days. If you’re driving, consider hitting the road early in the morning or later in the evening to dodge heavy traffic. 3. Pack Smart Packing efficiently is crucial for family travel, especially when you have kids in tow. Use packing cubes or separate bags for each family member to stay organised. Make a packing list for everyone to ensure nothing gets left behind. Don’t forget to pack essentials like snacks, water bottles, toys, and comfort items (like blankets or stuffed animals) to keep children entertained during the journey. 4. Keep Essentials Accessible When traveling with kids, having essential items within easy reach can make a huge difference. Keep important documents, snacks, medications, and entertainment (like tablets or colouring books) in an easily accessible bag. If you’re flying, consider using a backpack for easy access to items during security checks and boarding. 5. Engage Kids in the Travel Process Involve your children in the travel planning process to build excitement. Discuss the travel route, the destination, and activities you have planned. Encourage them to help pack their own bags and choose a few toys or games to bring along. This engagement can help them feel more connected to the journey and reduce anxiety. 6. Embrace Flexibility Travel can be unpredictable, especially during the holidays. Flight delays, traffic jams, or last-minute changes can happen, so it’s important to stay flexible and maintain a positive attitude. Build extra time into your travel schedule to account for unexpected delays, and be prepared to adjust your plans if needed. This mindset can help reduce stress and make the journey more enjoyable. 7. Create Family Traditions Use travel time to establish fun family traditions. Whether it’s singing holiday songs, playing travel games, or sharing stories about past holidays, these activities can help create lasting memories. Consider starting a new tradition, such as a “travel journal” where each family member can write about their experiences, thoughts, and favourite moments from the trip. 8. Stay Healthy and Hydrated Travel can disrupt regular routines, so it’s essential to prioritise health during the holidays. Encourage your family to stay hydrated, eat nutritious meals, and get plenty of rest. If you’re flying, remind kids to wash their hands frequently or use hand sanitiser to prevent the spread of germs. If traveling by car, make frequent stops to stretch and enjoy some fresh air. 9. Be Mindful of Safety Ensure the safety of your family while traveling by keeping emergency contact numbers, health insurance information, and any necessary medical supplies readily available. If you’re flying, talk to your kids about airport security procedures and what to expect, helping to ease any anxiety they may have. Always keep an eye on your children in crowded places and establish meeting points in case anyone gets separated. 10. Enjoy the Journey Finally, remember that the holiday season is about creating joyful memories with your loved ones. Embrace the journey as part of your holiday experience, not just a means to an end. Take time to enjoy the sights along the way, engage in meaningful conversations, and cherish the moments spent together. The laughter, stories, and shared experiences will be what you remember most. Conclusion Holiday travel can be an exciting adventure for families, filled with opportunities to bond and create cherished memories. By planning ahead, staying organised, and embracing flexibility, you can navigate the challenges of holiday travel with ease. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and get ready to embark on a memorable holiday journey! Safe travels!

November 1, 2024

WHAT TO DO ABOUT KIDS CUSSING

Why do kids and teens cuss and what can we do about it effectively? Here are a couple of reasons and some suggestions on what you can do about it. These suggestions may not be appropriate for all children, all families or all situations. They are simply suggestions that you might be able to use, depending on your situation with your kids. It may be a learned behaviour. Children learn by watching, listening and experimenting. If they are exposed to inappropriate language, it is sometimes normal for them to try it out themselves as experimentation. If they get a big reaction from others around them, it could motivate them to repeat it. Oftentimes, young children aren’t really sure what the words mean, they just like the reaction it brings on. For starters, be sure that your children are not being exposed to inappropriate movies, music or video games. Also be sure that your children are not witnessing abusive interactions between those involved in unhealthy relationships. This experience for them can teach them that bad behaviour and bad language are both acceptable. It may be a sign of an unmet need. In addition to basic survival needs such as food, water, sleep, and medical care, children have a series of higher level needs such as love, attention, power and safety. If these needs aren’t being met, a child could adopt inappropriate behaviours as attempts to get these needs met. In other words, a child who is not getting an adequate amount of love and attention by use cussing to get any attention they can. If your child is intentionally using bad language, ask yourself, “What could my child be trying to tell me by using those words?” Could she be doing it because she is angry about a change in the family? Has there been a divorce or a death involving any of her caregivers? Does she get plenty of opportunities that help satisfy her need to feel important and valuable to you? Ask yourself, “How is my relationship with my child? Have I been too busy for him, or have I been distracted, distant or angry? Have I been yelling and punishing too much?” If any of these conditions currently exist, the child’s use of cuss words maybe garnering him inappropriate attention from you by getting you to react. Negative attention is better than no attention at all. If your child has picked up bad language from a playmate, limit play time with that other child or increase supervision when they are together. If your child has learned it somewhere else, limit his or her exposure to that source. And if it’s a sign that your relationship with your child is lacking, spend more undistracted and quality time with your child. More often than not, a child’s challenging behaviour is actually communication. Whether you’ve found the source or not, create moments of closeness with your child to talk about the cussing. State your position that the words they are using are not acceptable to you and are not allowed in the family. Without too much ‘drilling,’ ask them why they use those words. Work cooperatively with them to come up with other words they can use instead. Finally, be calm, patience and loving. Be sure that you are setting a good example.

October 31, 2024

Does your child suffer from low self-esteem?

When a child suffers from low self-esteem, it will almost always carry on into their adulthood if not addressed. Simple things such as meeting new people can be very difficult, as well as taking on challenges, valuing their own opinion and much more. It is so important for parents to understand just how crucial healthy self-esteem in a child can be because they have a crucial role to play in the development of their children’s sense of self-worth. If your child has a low self-esteem, parent intervention can prevent the following being carried through to adulthood. Poor communication skills: A child with low-esteem is likely to grow into an adult that has difficulty in communicating with others; whether it is with their spouse, coworkers or peers, as they often do not feel secure and confident with what they say and may be afraid to express themselves. Negative thoughts and feelings: Since a child with low self-worth will regularly have negative thoughts and feelings about themselves and even others, it will likely carry through into adulthood. Unfortunately, the difference in adulthood will be that they are more likely to keep their feelings internalised rather than expressing them. Hot temper: An adult with low self-esteem may have a hot temper. This is usually because of the frustration and constantly simmering negative thoughts that they experience. These bubble below the surface and spill over fairly readily when provoked. Blaming others: Instead of taking responsibility for things going wrong, they are often quick to blame others. This avoidance of responsibility takes blame from them and puts it onto others. For a while, they are able to feel buoyed up and justified. Difficulty with relationships: Relationship difficulty is common when your child takes their low self-worth into adulthood. It is hard to truly love and dedicated yourself to another when you don’t truly love yourself. What they end up giving to their partners is a less than whole self, often putting strain on the relationship. Keep in mind that while some of these signs may or may not carry through into adulthood, everyone is impacted differently. A child who has a low self-esteem won’t always be an adult with low self-esteem. Self-esteem is not a black-and-white-all-or-nothing matter. There are varying degrees of self-esteem or self-worth. A child can have very low self-esteem or just a little self-doubt which will impact how they transform into adults.

October 31, 2024

Halloween

Cartoonito is getting spook-tacular for Halloween with a lineup of spine-tingling fun! Get ready for a frightful feast of episodes from Zig & Sharko, Masha and the Bear, CoComelon, Mr. Bean, and more! Programming Highlights: Masha and the Bear Silly Sundays Lucas the Spider ️ Toad & Friends Mr. Bear CoComelon Zig & Sharko The Adventures of Bernie Bugs Bunny Builders (including a NEW episode, S2 Ep. 45 ‘Spellbound’) ️ Grizzy & the Lemmings Batwheels Kingdom Force Dino Ranch Thomas & Friends Looney Tunes Cartoons Tune in for ghoulishly good fun! Premiere 31 October 2024 ⏰ Tune-in Thursday 31 October from 15:10 CAT

October 30, 2024

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.

October 30, 2024

10 Questions to ask a Nanny in an Interview

This is always a very difficult decision for a mom. You have been at home for thee months on maternity leave or maybe even longer and now its time to return to work. You are now tasked with finding someone that will love and care for your child the same way that you do. So you have what you think is “ supper nanny “ sitting on the couch in front of you, and you are wondering what questions you should ask her to help you decide what makes her different from everyone else These are some of the most advisable questions, but at the end of the day a mom always goes with her gut. You are preparing a bottle of formula, do you put the water or formula in first ? surprising a lot of childminders think they should put the formula in first. Then how do you mix the formula ? So Basically how to prepare a bottle, someone who is fully trained and experience childminder should be able to give a full demonstration or explanation Have you done a first aid course ? if she yes, present her with a scenario and ask her what she would do What did you like about the last family you worked for ? not “ why did you leave ? “ that brings  negativity rather listen to how positive she is, does she speak kindly of their children, does she glow when she speaks about them. How would you stimulate my child? you want to see if she knows about age appropriate games and if she knows how to draw up a weekly schedule of activities involving arts and crafts, outdoor play, good old traditional games, nursery rhymes and she should be using items in the home to do this. How long do you want to work for my family ? ideally you want a long term relationship. Many  childminders now go on to get drivers license’s  and at a later stage become an Aupair for the family. They drive the children around and run errands for the family. What type of discipline will you use on my child ? You want to see if she understands the concept of time out. Best is to ask what type of discipline she used in previous homes. When my baby is crying what will you do ?  If your child is awake the best is to give your child to  her hold in the interview, especially if she does start crying. Second to that is you want know what motions does she use for example, does she put the baby on her back, or rock the baby etc. How many children have you taken care of at one time? most homes have 2 – 3 children now  days. However there is often a domestic worker to help and the mom could also be at home to help. You want to understand how many she took care of totally on her own. When changing a nappy which way do you wipe ? depending on whether you have a boy or a girl she should know a girl you wipe front to back to back. You could also ask her to change your child’s nappy during the interview to see how she does it. Questions aside have conversation with the lady, you want to understand her and her lifestyle, where she comes from, her life story. How many children does she have, who looks after them, is she married, how often does she go home, are her parents still alive, does she have siblings, does she want to study anything ( they love to do courses if you offer to help better themselves it is the start to a good relationship ). You are judging her character at the end of the day, you can always train her on the smaller things that need polishing up.

October 30, 2024

WHY DO CHILDREN LIE?

The question of why children lie begs the greater question of why any of us lie. If you think back to the last time you lied (and I’ll bet my life you can think of a time), look at what was going on internally and this will give you a good idea of why your children do it and how to avoid it in future. Now before we get to that, let me just say that we all have all traits. We are all liars sometimes and every one of us will be pushed to lie under certain circumstances. So firstly, please never label your child as a liar. Once we apply a label to a child they are more likely (not less) to repeat this behaviour and to incorporate it into their sense of self as they grow up. ALL children lie sometimes (as do ALL adults). Ok, so it’s normal to lie sometimes, but why, and why do some lie more often? Going back to why we all do, lying is a fear-based behaviour. The child believes, for whatever reason, that if they tell the truth it will result in more pain than pleasure. And where do they get this message? From us, of course. We’re constantly giving kids unconscious messages that telling the truth will get you in trouble. “Who ate the sweets?” “I did” “Right, go to your room”. Sound familiar? What we need to get into the habit of doing is praising truth-telling and taking responsibility more than we punish “bad” behaviour. If our children own up and say that they “did it” we should be actively praising this behaviour and pointing out that while the behaviour is not ok with us, we’re really impressed that they told the truth. Children will only lie if they are afraid of our reaction to the truth. I know that many people worry that if they take this approach they will be too soft on the bad behaviour and will end up with unruly kids. One of the fundamental structures for well-behaved, compliant children is being their primary attachment (which implies complete trust, openness and closeness). If your children trust you completely and feel connected to you and loved no matter what they do they will actually be less likely to produce so called “bad” behaviours in the long run. Of course they will make mistakes along the way and present “negative” traits (like we all do) including lying, but this will not develop into any kind of delinquency if that adult-child connection is in place. And part of keeping it in place is keeping the lines of communication open and allowing your children to tell the truth and know they will be safe. I think this is a fundamental skill to work on when your children are little and to instil a sense of open communication and acceptance BEFORE they become teenagers. Once our kids hit the teen years, if we’ve shut off honest communication, we are in for a different level of trouble with our children lying to us about things that can be life threatening, or where they really could use our adult help and guidance. The next time your child lies to you think about why they would be afraid to tell the truth and then instead of punishing them for lying, rather address the rift in your relationship.

October 29, 2024

10 Essential Tips To Prevent Poisoning In Your Home

I was recently prescribed some analgesics for a small day procedure. That afternoon, when I got home, I placed the packet of meds on my dresser and later found my daughter sitting on the floor inspecting the packet. My heart stopped! This careless mistake could have had devastating consequences. Unfortunately poisoning data in South Africa is lacking. One study dating back to 2012 found that the most common cause of accidental poisoning in SA children is pesticides. However, the list of potential poisons throughout our homes is extensive; here are just a few more obvious ones: Medications Household cleaners and disinfectants Cosmetics and toiletries Insect and rodent repellants Weed killers and other outdoor chemicals Swimming pool chemicals Flea and tick shampoos and other products for pets I have put together a list of some useful tips to prevent accidental poisoning at home. Some of them may seem fairly obvious but as I have recently experienced it is easy to forget. Keep all potential household and other hazards in their original containers. DO NOT transfer into coke bottles or Tupperware’s. Make sure seals of potential hazards are tight and secure before locking away. Please note that child resistant packaging of medications is NOT childproof. Keep potential hazards locked away in the highest cupboard with a childproof lock. The cupboard should even be high for you, as little minds can get quite creative with boxes and stools and climb up onto countertops. Keep potential hazards out of reach of children when in use and never leave bottles or buckets unattended. Never call medicine sweets/candy. This is a common mistake parents make in order to get their kids to take medicine when sick. This could lead to a child one day consuming an entire bottle of ‘sweets’. Never leave your handbag lying around and be extra cautious when you have visitors over as many people keep painkillers in their bags. Alcohol is often overlooked and is very dangerous to your little ones if consumed in excess. Keep alcohol out of reach of children especially when hosting parties. Any kind of battery can be dangerous if leaking or ingested. Keep remote controls and other battery containing devices away from children. If you are unsure about whether or not a household item is hazardous, assume it is and keep it locked away. Things that seem harmless are most often extremely dangerous. Most importantly TEACH your children about the dangers! It may be a good idea to identify what potential hazards you have in your home. Do a check of every room in the house including your garage and make sure your home is safe. RESOURCES Balme, K., Roberts, J.C., Glasstone, M., Curling, L. & Mann, M.D. (2012) The changing trends of childhood poisoning at a tertiarychildren’s hospital in South Africa. South African Medical Journal. [Online] 102 (3), pp. 142-146. Available from: http://www.scielo.org.za/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0256-95742012000300023&lng=en&tlng=en [Accessed 8 August 2018]. Veale, D.J.H., Wium, C.A. & Müller, G.J. (2012) Toxicovigilance I: A survey of acute poisoning in South Africa based on Tygerberg Poison Information Centre data. South African Medical Journal. [Online] 103 (5), pp. 293-297. Available from: http://www.samj.org.za/index.php/samj/article/view/6647/5054 [Accessed 8 August 2018].

October 29, 2024

NURTURING WELLNESS AND BALANCE AT WINGU ACADEMY

Nurturing Wellness and Balance at Wingu Academy: A Holistic Approach to Online Learning In the fast-paced world of online education, Wingu Academy recognises that student wellness and balance are paramount. We understand that success in the 4IR demands more than just academic excellence. It requires a holistic approach that nourishes the mind, body, and spirit. Our commitment to student wellbeing extends beyond the virtual classroom, with a range of extracurricular clubs and initiatives designed to foster a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. Virtual Vitality Club: Elevate your energy and cultivate a healthy lifestyle from the comfort of your home. Our Virtual Vitality Club focuses on fitness, teamwork, and leadership skills, preparing you for exciting challenges like the MyHomeSchoolEvents, Obstacle Course Race (OCR), and our grand Wingulympics. Chef Club: Indulge your culinary curiosity and embark on a flavorful journey with the Chef Club. From baking delectable treats to crafting household essentials, we’re your kitchen companions. Join us to master the art of cooking, embrace sustainable practices, and acquire essential life skills. Oxford Health and Wellness Course: Delve deeper into the principles of wellbeing with our Oxford Health and Wellness course. Gain valuable insights into maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and cultivating positive mental health habits. Nutrition Meets Online Learning: At Wingu Academy, we recognise the vital role that proper nutrition plays in enhancing cognitive function, energy levels, and overall well being. We’re committed to integrating healthy eating habits into our educational framework, ensuring that our students not only thrive academically but also maintain their health and vitality. These initiatives, coupled with our extracurricular clubs, exemplify our dedication to fostering a balanced lifestyle and supporting the overall wellbeing of our students. We believe that by nurturing their physical, mental, and emotional health, we empower them to achieve their full potential in the 4IR and beyond. Experience the Difference at Wingu Academy We invite you to join us for our Open Day on October 5th at South Suburbs, where you can witness firsthand how Wingu Academy is revolutionising online education by prioritising student wellness and balance. Discover the difference our holistic approach can make in your child’s life. We look forward to welcoming you and showing you how Wingu Academy is shaping the future of learning, one balanced student at a time. Experience Wingu Academy’s Unique Approach Join us for our Open Day on October 5th at the Wingu Academy South Suburbs Campus to discover firsthand how we empower students for the future with an innovative, world-class education that prioritises wellness. Meet our team, explore our programs, and see how we’re making a meaningful difference in students’ lives. Register today and take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced, and empowering educational journey!

October 29, 2024

Halloween

🎃👻 Cartoon Network is brewing up a Halloween treat with a spooky lineup! 🕸️ Get ready for eerie episodes and thrilling fun: 28 October 🐻 We Baby Bears & We Bare Bears 29 October  The Amazing World of Gumball  🍎 Coach Me If You Can  🥑 Apple & Onion  🍭 Jellystone! 30 October The Amazing World of Gumball & Craig of the Creek 31 OctoberTeen Titans Go! 🎃 (including a NEW Halloween episode!) Mark your calendars and get ready for some spook-tacular fun! 🎃✨🦇 📆 Premiere Monday 28 October 2024 ⏰ Tune-in Monday to Thursday @ 15:40 CAT

October 28, 2024

5 Tips for baby’s first outing

It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed at the thought of heading out with baby, for the first time. There’s a lot to prepare for and fear, but take heart, it will probably be easier than you foresee…

October 28, 2024

Providing the 2025 curriculum option for you, register today!

What are the advantages of Home education? The Bela Bill has just been signed and there is a lot of confusion and panic among some people. However, at Educ8 SA, we are committed to providing comprehensive support and guidance on the Bela Bill. You are welcome to contact us via our WhatsApp number 084 685 2138.  Our goal is to offer reassurance and assistance throughout your registration process, ensuring your peace of mind. Home education allows students to have the freedom families deserve and complete work from the comfort of their own homes. The benefits it offers are numerous. So let’s explore some of them today, we are super excited to share with you today. Its the oldest form of child education, when I think back this is what is familiar and my opinion best suited for families. So, in recent years, home education has gained significant traction as an alternative to traditional schooling. For parents considering this path and curious individuals alike, understanding the benefits and challenges of home education is crucial. Let’s start exploring the world of homeschooling and uncover its potential to transform your learning experiences. One of the most compelling aspects of home education is its flexibility. Imagine a world where your child’s education adapts to their unique learning style, their interests, and pace. This is the reality for many homeschooling families. Home education offers benefits through Educ8 SA: Academic Flexibility: Customize the curriculum to match your child’s interests and strengths. Personalized Learning: Adapt teaching methods to suit your child’s learning style, whether they’re visual or auditory learners. Flexible Scheduling: Learn at times that work best for your family, allowing for extracurricular activities and real-world experiences. How does Education promote Family bonding? Home education isn’t just about academics; it’s an opportunity to form stronger family relationships. By learning together, families create shared experiences and memories that last a lifetime. It also builds… Quality Time: Spend more time together, fostering deeper connections and understanding. Shared Learning: Parents often find themselves learning alongside their children, creating a culture of lifelong learning. Values Integration: Incorporating your family’s values and beliefs into the educational experience and even your religion. How does home schooling contribute to the learning environment? In a world where school safety is a growing concern, it has come to attention that 2500 teachers are facing layoffs due to budget constraints.  This development, just shows and highlights challenges facing our educational institutions…wow its shocking. Don’t you think? But with home education it provides a secure learning environment. This safety extends beyond physical aspects to emotional and psychological well-being. Bullying: It eliminate concerns about peer pressure and bullying. Emotional Security: Create a supportive atmosphere where children feel comfortable expressing themselves and taking risks in their learning. Healthy Socialization: Engage in community activities and home school groups for positive social interactions. Home education offers unique opportunities for character development. Without the constraints of a traditional classroom, children can explore their interests, develop self-discipline, and cultivate a strong sense of self. What do I mean by this? It encourages independence and self-motivation. Helps with Critical Thinking, so developing strong analytical skills through in-depth discussions and exploration of topics. Connecting learning to practical life skills and experiences. Can you share some challenges that one may face? Yes, while home education offers numerous benefits, it’s important to address the common concerns and challenges that people raise: Socialisation: Myth vs. Reality Contrary to popular belief, home-schooled children can have rich social lives. Through home school co-ops, community activities, and sports teams, they often interact with diverse groups of people across various age ranges. Time Management: Finding Balance Homeschooling requires dedication and effective time management. Many families find success by: Creating structured daily routines Setting clear goals and expectations Utilizing time-blocking techniques And lastly navigating Legal Requirements is important. Understanding and complying with homeschooling laws is crucial. So, like I mentioned before, Educ8 SA is here is assist with great resources, Bela Bill questions and assisting you on your home schooling journey. Contact us today! 084 685 2138 info@educ8sa.net www.educ8sa.com

October 28, 2024

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 .

October 25, 2024

A Bump To The Head: When Should You Worry?

I have attended to many children in the ER who have taken a tumble. In the US, falls account for around half the injury-related ER visits in children under 5 years of age. Most of these falls involve furniture such as changing mats, high chairs, baby walkers and beds. Parents are almost always concerned about head injuries. Majority of head injuries from a fall are usually minor. Children under one who fall are more likely to sustain head injuries regardless of the height from which they fall. Whereas older children are more prone to extremity fractures. This is because an infant’s head is much larger than the rest of their body. As a child grows, their head mass becomes more proportional and they develop upper body strength, which enables them to brace falls with their arms or legs. WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR  If your child is awake, alert and behaving normally after a bump to the head with no other signs and symptoms then he or she will most likely be fine and you don’t have to rush to hospital right away. It’s a good idea to observe your child for 1-2 days afterwards, since symptoms of a brain injury may present late. Seek Medical Attention: For any bump to the head in an infant; If your child has lost consciousness, even if brief; If your child has any signs and symptoms of a concussion (see below); If your child is inconsolable; If your child is vomiting; If your child is difficult to wake; If your child has a seizure; and/or If you suspect a broken bone. If your child has had a bad fall and you suspect a neck injury DO NOT move your child. Call an ambulance right away! Always trust your gut. If you are unsure rather head straight to your nearest emergency room. CONCUSSION A concussion is a brain injury caused by a blow to the head. The signs and symptoms may be vague and may even take a few days to develop. It’s important to know that not all concussions cause a loss of consciousness. Concussions can be more difficult to diagnose in children, as they are not as vocal about their symptoms. Children older than 2 years will show more behavioural symptoms. Signs & symptoms will therefore depend on age and include but are not limited to: Irritable and fussy; Unusually sleepy; Crying more than usual; Change in appetite; Nausea and/or vomiting; Lack of interest in play; Headache; Confusion; Child is unsteady on his or her feet; Sensitivity to light and noise; Blurred or double vision; Dizziness; Unusual speech e.g.: slow or slurred; Poor concentration and memory; and/or Problems with co-ordination. DIAGNOSING A CONCUSSION  The doctor will do a thorough evaluation. A CT scan and MRI cannot diagnose a concussion. A CT scan will however, most likely be ordered to exclude a brain bleed or skull fracture depending on the mechanism of injury and presenting symptoms. The majority of falls in children are caused by modifiable factors and are therefore preventable. It’s impossible to bubble wrap our kids and we shouldn’t have to. Falls and tumbles can teach our children valuable lessons, but we can spend time baby proofing our homes and being more cautious to prevent serious injury. Remember to always buckle your baby in their high chair and never leave him or her unattended on a changing mat, not even for a second – it takes seconds for an accident to happen. RESOURCES Burrows, P. et al. (2015) Head injury from falls in children younger than 6 years of age. Arch Dis Child, [online] 100 (11), pp. 1032-1037. Available from: https://0-www-ncbi-nlm-nih-gov.innopac.wits.ac.za/pmc/articles/PMC4680174/ [Accessed 3 October 2018]. CDC (2017) Traumatic Brain Injury & Concussion [online]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/symptoms.html [Accessed 3 october 2018]. Chaudhary, S. et al. (2018) Pediatric falls ages 0–4: understanding demographics, mechanisms, and injury severities. Inj Epidemiol, [online] 5 (suppl 1). Available from: https://0-www-ncbi-nlm-nih-gov.innopac.wits.ac.za/pmc/articles/PMC5893510/ [Accessed 3 October 2018]. Kendrick, D. et al. (2015) Risk and Protective Factors for Falls From Furniture in Young Children Multicenter Case-Control Study. JAMA Pediatr, [online] 169 (2), pp. 145-153. Available from: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/1939058 [Accessed 3 October 2018]. Samuel, N. et al. (2015) Falls in young children with minor head injury: A prospective analysis of injury mechanisms. Brain Injury, [online] 29 (7-8), pp. 946-950. Available from: https://0-www-tandfonline-com.innopac.wits.ac.za/doi/full/10.3109/02699052.2015.1017005 [Accessed 3 October 2018].

October 25, 2024

What to do With Kids Who Always Want, Plead, Beg or Demand

I was shopping for a child relative’s gift and was looking at items in the toy section of a large department store.  Near me were a mother and her son who appeared to be about seven.  He was pleading with her to buy him a toy he really wanted and the begging began to escalate in intensity.  In response to each request, her responses also increased in intensity as she would reply NO and the offer a reason. Some of this mother’s reasons included: “we have no money,” “your father is on a business trip and he needed to take our extra money with him,” “you already have that kind of toy laying on your bedroom floor,” “you don’t play with what you have,” “I’m tired of buying you toys,” “you don’t appreciate what you have,” “your birthday is coming,” “stop asking for things,” and on and on and on. Standing next to this drama and hearing it all play out was excruciating.  But deep inside of me was the natural urge to want to stop his pleading by doing exactly what this mother did next… she bought him the toy!  When kids keep demanding something and the parent is already stressed and tired, the natural urge is to yell and get angry, or give in to the child’s demands to stop the noise.  Here are two things you can do to curb the “I want that” demands. SET UP A MONEY MANAGEMENT PROCESS.  Taking a look at this problem from the child’s perspective; they have little or no control over spending money and you have given in to their requests in the past.  The solution is to set up a money saving/spending plan that they can control. Whenever you take your child shopping with you, allow him/her to take whatever they have in the ‘spending’ envelope to buy something.  Your responsibilities are to help them set up this system, ensure that it is maintained (supervise it in the beginning) and to approve what they spend it on. HELP YOUR CHILD CREATE A DREAM BOOK.  Buy your child a composition book (black and white cover and what we used in school) that you can find in the office supply isle of most department or convenience stores.  Tell your child that this is going to be his/her ‘dream book’ where he/she can record all of the things he/she desires.  Encourage your child to draw pictures of what they want or cut out pictures from magazines and fliers to paste into the new dream book. When your child sees something a friend has or in a television commercial, you simply say “put it in your dream book.”  You are not responsible for fulfilling their dreams, your job is to teach them HOW to dream.  With the holidays upon us, now is a good time to implement some changes to keep the “I WANT IT” demands from overwhelming you. Finally, avoid arguing with your child and certainly don’t give in.  Doing so reinforces the behaviour (demanding) that drives you crazy.  When they ask for something you’re not willing to provide, tell them that and don’t use the word NO.  Simply say one time, “I’m not willing to buy that today,” and nothing more.  Avoid giving excuses if you know they aren’t going to accept them.  Saying NO seems to move them to demand even more.

October 24, 2024

Managing Stress As A Teen

How do we define stress? Simply put, it’s an emotion… but it’s one of the most damaging and harmful ones we experience if it’s left unchecked! If it’s not addressed, it can affect not only your mental, but your physical health too. Many adults are of the opinion that teens don’t really know what true stress is. They are wrong! Stress is an emotion that can be experienced by new-born babies, toddlers and human beings of all ages. The things that make us stress may differ, but that doesn’t make it any less real. So, what makes you stress? Some of the most common factors that teens report as influencing their stress levels are: Parental expectation: “Did you do well in the test? Are you trying your hardest? I don’t like what you’re wearing. I don’t like how you’re behaving; did you make 1st team? I thought you were a leader…” Peer pressure: (the old favourite), Ask her out, smoke this, drink that, take one of these, sneak out, study later… From yourself: I’m too fat, I’m too skinny, I don’t dress properly, I don’t get enough respect, I don’t go out enough, I don’t study hard enough… Good stress vs bad stress. It’s important to remember that even though stress is uncomfortable, it’s not always bad. Stress can help us deal with tough situations. A lot of stress changes our bodies quickly and helps us react to an emergency. A little stress keeps us alert and helps us work harder. Unfortunately, a lot of stress is going to make doing these things harder. So, the key is to find a balance between enough and too much. Stress is a survival tool. When we are stressed, our brain triggers a hormone release and sends something called Cortisol running through our system. This helpful little guy prepares our body to react to stressors, such as physical danger. Normally, you’d run from danger or fight it, using up that juice in your system. Unfortunately, when we stress ourselves out so much as a result of perceived challenges, we are filling our body with cortisol and often don’t use it to power our behaviour. So what happens? You have this emotional supercharge running through your veins and brain, with nowhere to go, just hanging around causing harm, premature grey hairs and messing with your other hormones. Manage that stress. Learn to understand your stress, where it comes from and how to relieve it or avoid it. Ask yourself if there are people or situations in your life that are just not worth the stress and see if you can avoid them. If you can’t, learn to manage their impact on you. Speak to your parents about what motivates you and what stresses you to the point of collapse. If that doesn’t work, take the unknown out of the equation and show them how much work you are doing or can do in a given day. Let them know that you’re already trying your best and need their support instead of pressure. Go for a run, lift a weight, eat properly and sleep better! Know that it’s up to you to change the circumstances that cause you to stress, because once you’ve got that figured out, you can chill.

October 24, 2024

How having Twins makes a better You!

Chances are whether you are expecting twins are already have them, you constantly hear about the challenges in having twins, along with some colourful commentary. There may be challenges along the way, but having multiples is special and amazing and can teach you so much about yourself. Here are some moms comments on what they have learnt about themselves since having twins. I enjoy every moment of life so much more I never knew I had so much love in me I have become a lot more easy going and have learnt to over look a lot, as long as my kids are happy, a messy house doesn’t stress me out as much as it did when I had just one child Patience……Lots and lots of patience I have become an expert in routines and time management Able to get so much more done in a short period of time – less time wastage Popularity has increased! Its like being a celebrity as people stare, smile and want to stop and talk to you the minute they spot the twin stroller Doing tasks faster than I imagined I could I have learnt not to sweat the small stuff and let go a little. I have also learnt to have fun again, through and with my boys Managing time for hubby and 2 year old twins is a big struggle Coping and multi tasking skills. Having twins plus 1 has taught me to cope with 3 kids on my own without getting over worked and just generally your strategic mind really gets into gear Having twins has taught me to adapt and give individual attention to each of the twins as if they were singletons My OCD has taken a back seat as I have learnt the world won’t end if everything is not clean / perfect / finished all the time I use my time better, worry less, do more laugh a lot!!!! I lost the super mom idea and had to ask for help especially when they were little. At age 3 I have to observe more , cant jump in to fight their fights for them. I have learnt grace, compassion and patience I have learnt I control everything, I’ve learnt not to sweat the small stuff and I’m actually a far more chilled person for having had twins I’ve learnt to ask for help, though I still battle with this sometimes, I like to do things myself, with twins it isn’t always possible and now with a 3rd even harder!! I have learnt to adjust our expectations and just go with the flow – they’re three now and at least we got out the other side with honour and sanity intact Having twins has taught me that I am capable of far more than I ever thought possible. I didn’t know if I would be able to survive twins, plus a 2 year old and a 4 year old with autism. But the twins are 6 months now and somehow we made it work and sometimes even have a lot of fun doing it Twins give you super powers. You can multi task like a pro. You get patience like you cant believe.You have this amazing overwhelming feeling of happiness and love. You cope with less because you have more. Twins don’t have a routine they have a drill sergeant behind them. One wrong move and there is chaos

October 24, 2024

IS YOUR CHILD READY FOR BIG SCHOOL? HOW READINESS IS DETERMINED TODAY

In recent years, the approach to determining school readiness has undergone significant changes. Traditionally, school readiness assessments in Grade 0 focused heavily on evaluating whether children met specific academic and developmental benchmarks. However, this method often overlooked the individual growth and unique strengths of each child. Today, there is a shift towards a more holistic and supportive approach, emphasising continuous growth and tailored support, an education expert says. “The modern approach places less emphasis on traditional assessments and more on measuring and supporting student growth over time,” says Lynda Eagle, Schools Academic Advisor at ADvTECH, Africa’s leading private education provider. “This shift recognises that each child develops at their own pace and has unique strengths and areas for improvement. By focusing on growth, educators can better support students as they progress, extending their strengths and providing scaffolding where needed.” THE MEANING OF SCHOOL READINESS School readiness is an assessment of the degree to which a child is prepared to enter school and succeed in a learning environment, explains Eagle. When considering school readiness there is a range of developmental areas – all inter-linked – that need to be considered: academic/cognitive, social, emotional and physical. Collectively, a healthy development across these areas will indicate that a child is ready and able to adapt and thrive in their new setting, she says. “School readiness is not just about knowledge. It involves a child’s ability to adapt, to manage their emotions, to positively interact with others and to follow routines.” AREAS OF DEVELOPMENT Children’s development will differ according to the child’s age and stage of development. The various elements considered are broadly defined as follows: Physical: This includes both fine and gross motors skills that facilitate the child’s ability to control their body movements with increased accuracy and precision. The development of these skills ultimately prepares children for handwriting (letter and number formation) and the more physical activities required when participating in sport – such as running, jumping, and throwing a ball. Cognitive development: Is the ability of the child to process and demonstrate their understandings of foundational skills through problem-solving, the following of instructions, the sequencing of events, and the ability to reason and apply what they have learned to new situations. Social development: This considers the child’s ability to interact with others, to share, take turns, engage in collaboration and cooperate with others. Do they understand social cues, and are they able to interpret and respond appropriately to social cues, and recognise emotions? Emotional development:  This involves the ability of the child to self-regulate and manage their emotions and behaviours. It facilitates the building of the child’s self-confidence and ability to work independently – to make sound choices and to operate in a community effectively. BEYOND TRADITIONAL ASSESSMENTS – DETERMINING WHAT IS BEST FOR THE CHILD “When we fail to consider the age and developmental stage of a child, we risk trying to grow or develop their skills before they are ready, or before they have had the necessary foundational experiences, which can have a lifetime impact if there is a rush towards achieving school readiness,” says Eagle. “An overemphasis on academic skills can lead to moving to abstract concepts without providing enough concrete experiences. Measuring and judging students against uniform pre-determined norms or standards fail to recognise their unique needs, talents and dispositions. This approach places undue pressure on both the adults and students in an attempt to meet these milestones and often at the expense of developing important essential or soft skills”. Additionally, failing to consider cultural contexts means that norms are based on standards that do not align with the child’s unique experiences. “Fostering a competitive environment can place pressure on a child’s well-being, sense of belonging and identity. When a child is labelled as not ready, it implies they are not worthy, leading to judgment rather than nurturing.” Eagle says parents and educators need to take a balanced approach by determining whether the school is ready for the child, and whether it can work with a framework that recognises the rights of the child – adapting and designing learning experiences that address gaps and challenges. “Rather than ticking boxes to determine school readiness (or not), it is our duty to focus on the child’s emotional, social and mental health – where they feel safe then they will be open to learning. We must be flexible and adaptive – to be inclusive and affirmative in our actions and behaviours – this includes the language that we use. The overriding recognition should be that children don’t mature or learn in the same ways. That is okay, and simply requires us to adjust accordingly.”

October 23, 2024

Raising Emotionally Intelligent Kids…

Did you know that in the languages of Sweden, Norway and Finland, where they experience long snow-filled winters, there are as many as 180 snow and ice related words. That’s a lot of ways to talk about something we just call, well, snow and ice. Imagine how differently snow would appear to you if you had so many ways to describe it rather than just cold, wet and white!   Now think about how much richer your child’s emotional life would be if they could describe what they were feeling with more words than just happy, sad and mad. ​ The thing is, the labels that we apply to our emotions do more than just help us to communicate with others what is going on in our internal world. They also help us to understand how to process and cope with what is going on and assist us in directing our behavior appropriately.For example… If you are just “sad”, then you might have only two options… cry and/or wait it out. But if you differentiate sadness into loneliness, boredom, grief, tiredness, melancholy, nostalgia, heartbrokeness or disappointment, then you suddenly have a few more options. You can phone a friend to alleviate loneliness; you can hop onto Pinterest for some craft ideas if you’re bored; you can take a nap if you’re tired; or adjust your expectations if you’re disappointed.Our emotions are the language of the unconscious mind and are there to help us to live more authentic, fulfilled lives by directing our attention to things that need to be addressed, by changing our physiology for survival, and by drawing our attention to the things that bring us joy so that we can do more of them. The more in tune we are with these messages, the more likely we are to live a rich, meaningful existence.Think of this as a relationship between yourself and this other aspect of your mind. The relationship is going to be a fairly shallow one if you only know a few words of the other partner’s language!So the main key to helping children to develop emotional intelligence is to develop their emotional vocabulary.  Happy, sad and mad are fine when you’re three, but not when you’re 13 or 23 (or even 53!).  Get out that dictionary. Start by making a long list of all the feeling words you can find. Keep adding to this as you discover more. Turn these into a daily emotional tracking chart that the whole family can use. Play emotional charades by placing all your newly learned words into a hat and each family member picking one and acting it out to see if the others can guess the feeling. Load a thesaurus onto your phone and every time you want to describe how you feel find another 5 ways of saying that which would more accurately describe your state. Read to your kids and discuss how the characters are feeling. Engage your children in emotional discussions. Really really listen to what they are saying and see if you can find the perfect word to sum it all up. Consider making up your own words if the perfect word doesn’t exist yet. Adding “hangry” to our vocabularies to describe the irritation that comes when you haven’t eaten enough has helped us to take the right action in the situation (i.e. instead of punishing the child that is lashing out, we give them a snack!). Language helps us to process our world, to interact with others and to express our needs and desires. Emotional language assists us in understanding ourselves, having empathy for others, directing our behavior appropriately, and managing our internal state. Transform snow into a damp, piercing and ghostly environment where you are engulfed by its icy transparency… and transform your child’s emotional world into as colourful a landscape. Emotionally intelligent kids need a vocabulary that is rich enough to express the depth of their internal world.

October 23, 2024

Teaching Study Skills: Whose Responsibility Is It Anyway?

Exams bring its fair share of stress and pressure. It is a time when teachers, parents and children feel overwhelmed by the volumes of work that need to be covered in class and committed to memory at home. Parents often feel that teachers should provide more guidance about how to study. Teachers feel that they have mountains of content to cover and do not have enough time to review the content as well. This leaves one wondering, who will show a child how to get through all the topics on their exam scope? Too Little, Too Late There is no magic trick to replace making and spending enough time to review work covered in class well in advance. Children’s busy afternoon programmes barely leave them with enough time to complete their homework for the following day. If a child only completes homework and skims over work for weekly tests without making summaries of the work covered in class, it leads to huge chunks of content to be covered prior to the exam. Mom, is it perhaps time to help your child to cut down on afternoon activities? Keywords are Key Making summaries of work covered in class needs to be done on a consistent basis. It reduces the workload prior to exams. When the key points have been highlighted and summarised, the child only has to focus on what has already been selected as the most important content. The child can then use the keywords to formulate sentences in his/her own words. Children often think that they have to repeat the words of the textbook verbatim. However, it is more important to retell the facts in a way that makes sense to them. Mock Tests Help your child to set his/her own test paper by formulating their own questions with answers. This will help them feel more prepared and less anxious before their exams. Chrizelle Prinsloo is the owner of Kip McGrath Education Centres, Walmer.  She has a background in psychology and has taught in mainstream and special-needs schools both locally and abroad. Chrizelle is passionate about helping children gain confidence in their own abilities and about finding different ways to help them learn.

October 23, 2024

ARE YOU ENCOURAGING YOUR CHILD TO REBEL WITHOUT KNOWING IT?

Control and freedom. We all want both. We like to feel some sense of power and authority and we definitely want the feeling that nobody has power or authority over us – freedom. These apparently contradictory ideas are actually one. What we all really want, the true control we want to yield, is the power over ourselves – to be able to direct our time and our lives and to be able to pursue what is most meaningful to us without interference from others. What we want is to control our own freedom. And parenting is the place where our misguided attempts to control others (instead of our own lives) plays out the most. If we sit quietly with our own frustration and anger and disappointment that we are directing towards our children and their behaviour; If we truly allow these feelings to surface without attack; If we go deeply into the pain underlying them, what we find is that our futile attempts to control our children always come from our own unresolved issues. Children pulse with their own life-force, with their own goals and dreams and desires. Children, too, have the innate desire to control their own freedom. But when we, the adults, are not living authentic lives then we feel the need to squash the freedom we see in them. We need to make them conform to the same societal expectations that killed our inner joy, to let go of childish fantasies and ‘grow up into the real world’. We create all sorts of control mechanisms – punishments, shaming, coercion, rewards and the giving or withholding of approval – and then agree on these as a society to justify our own sense of disillusionment with how our lives have panned out. We believe that our underlying motivation is pure: That we want our children to grow up and fit into society and be liked and acceptable. What we don’t realise is that the very techniques that we use to entice our children into conformity are the same things that will initiate their rebellion. Nobody can suppress their inner authenticity for long periods of time. Teenage rebellion is absolutely essential in a society that manipulates and coerces children into being something they are not; And is totally absent in communities that allow children freedom. What looks like successful control in childhood – a well-behaved, obedient child – is the perfect fertile soil for that teen rebellion. Control can never be an external factor. True control must always come from within. It must arise from living a life where we are true to ourselves and also allow others to be true to themselves. Children (and adults) who are internally free and happy and living on purpose never put obstacles the paths of others. It is fear that lies behind all other-control. And what we fear as parents is that our children will become unruly, unlikable delinquents. And our fear converts into control, which converts into rebellion, and we unwittingly create the very thing we are afraid of. Let your children be. But first, let yourself be. Take some time as you head into this new year to assess your life. Are you doing what you really want to do? Is your life meaningful and joyous and filled with engaging challenges? Are you free, or have you succumbed to the power of some authority? Do you wake in the morning excited to see what the day brings? There is a lot we can learn from our children if we stop trying to make them like us and instead we see if we could possibly be more like them. Start controlling your own life and your own freedom and you will see that letting go of control in terms of your children is not something you need to do, but something that will come naturally as you live a more authentic life. Sow the seeds of freedom in your own life and you will stop sowing the seeds of rebellion in theirs.

October 22, 2024

Common First Aid Myths

I am often surprised by how some of my patients manage their injuries before they come to the emergency room. I think my own mother is also guilty of practising some really strange methods whilst I was growing up. Over the years, medical advice and management has evolved. What may have made sense years ago is now out of date and has been replaced with more sound research and often logic. Here are just a few of the first aid practices and myths that I have seen over the years.

October 22, 2024

THE TOP SEVEN ADVANTAGES TO EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

As parents consider the best path for their child’s development, early childhood education and care stand out as essential building blocks for future success. Ursula Assis, Country Director of Dibber International Preschools, emphasises the profound impact of early learning on a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. “Learning begins at birth, and the experiences children have in their early years lay the foundation for lifelong learning. At Dibber, we recognise that tapping into a child’s natural curiosity through structured learning and social interaction offers remarkable benefits,” says Assis. Early childhood care and education provide numerous developmental advantages beyond the classroom. From literacy and numeracy skills to nurturing independence and social interaction, the advantages of early learning experiences are transformative. Here are the top 7 advantages of early childhood education and care: Literacy and Numeracy Skills Early exposure to a structured curriculum helps children easily grasp fundamental concepts like letters and numbers. “A well-designed early education program ensures that children build a strong foundation in literacy and numeracy, essential for future academic success,” explains Assis. Independence Being introduced to a world outside of their home environment allows children to develop independence. They learn to explore, solve problems, and make decisions in a safe and supportive setting. Socialisation Early learning centres provide valuable opportunities for children to socialise with their peers. “Socialisation is critical for children as they learn the basics of teamwork, cooperation, and empathy through interactions with other children of the same age,” says Assis. Confidence Encouraging teachers play a significant role in helping children feel seen and heard. When a child’s contribution is valued, their confidence and self-esteem grow. “At Dibber, we are committed to fostering an environment where children feel empowered to express themselves,” adds Assis. Routine A structured daily routine helps children feel secure and in control of their environment. Knowing what to expect throughout the day supports emotional well-being and helps children manage transitions more smoothly. Lifelong Learning Early childhood education cultivates a positive relationship with learning by making learning enjoyable and stimulating. “When children develop a love for learning early on, they become eager to explore new ideas and challenges throughout their lives,” Assis highlights. Exposure to Diversity Early childhood education introduces children to a diverse world. They meet peers and educators from various cultural, religious, and social backgrounds, helping them appreciate diversity and fostering a sense of unity in difference. “Exposure to diversity from a young age allows children to develop a global mindset, which is invaluable in today’s interconnected world,” notes Assis. The holistic benefits of early childhood education cannot be overstated. Children develop crucial life skills, improve their academic readiness, and build strong social connections, all within an environment that encourages play-based learning. “As we continue to provide high-quality education at Dibber International Preschools, we are dedicated to giving children the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive in a nurturing environment that supports their development in every aspect of life,” concludes Assis.

October 22, 2024

6 Must-read tips for successful expressing

Ultimately, the reason why you are expressing will determine how long you carry on for and/or how much milk is expressed Whether you express to keep your baby guzzling breast milk while you’re at work (or step out), or you express because your little one struggles to breastfeed, we can all agree on one thing… … it’s hard work. Think: Time (so.much.time), fluctuations in milk supply and a million little parts, not to mention bottles, that need to be washed, assembled and kept track of. But, that doesn’t mean it’s not doable – especially if your follow these six tips, courtesy of Vicki Scott (baby feeding and well-being advisor at Philips AVENT): 6 Must-read tips for successful expressing Practice makes perfect – or certainly improves how easily you can express! Try to express at the same time every day for a few days (after baby’s first feed of the day is a good time) Stimulate the let-down reflex before you start to pump, if the milk does not flow very easily. Do this by having a warm bath or gently massaging your breast with the flat of your hand. Good to know: Expressing from one side whilst feeding from the other is effective, as baby does the job of stimulating let-down for you! If using a manual pump, depress the lever as far as is comfortable; hold for a second or two, release, then repeat. Find a rhythm which feels natural – you are trying to mimic your baby suckling at the breast in order for your milk to begin to flow. When your milk begins to flow, slow down the pumping rhythm a little to suit you Continue pumping until the milk flow ceases, then swap to the other side.When flow on the second side ceases, return to the first It may be helpful to continue to gently massage the breast towards the nipple throughout, as this could help with let-down The reason why you are expressing will determine how long you carry on for and/or how much milk is expressed Remember… As with breastfeeding, successful expressing depends on various factors. Being relaxed, comfy and unhurried is key to a successful pumping session! Expressing is not always an accurate indication of how much milk you make– and baby is far more efficient at extracting milk from your breast than a pump is! Author: LARA BESTBIER Writer. Creative. Word-nerd. Aspiring photographer. Oh, and mom to the only little girl more demanding than me. Parenting editor at All4Women (e-mail me at lara@all4women.co.za).

October 21, 2024

Supa Strikas Rookie Season PLUS Supa Strikas Freestyle Challenge

Rookie Season is here, and Shakes is back to where it all began! Join our youngest Supa Strikas star on his wild ride as he tackles betrayal, searches for his dad, and takes on epic soccer challenges. Will he conquer the Super League Trophy and impress his sister? ⚽️ Plus, catch Shakes going head-to-head with freestyle football champs Lia Lewis and Tobias Becs! Watch as they show off jaw-dropping moves like thigh pops, splits, sole swipes, and more! ⚽️ Premiere Monday 21 October 2024 ⏰ Tune-in Monday to Friday @ 17:50 CAT Available on DSTV Catch-Up until 5 December 2024

October 21, 2024

Pregnancy, your body and your baby – week 39 of your pregnancy

You’re now one week away from week 40 – the final week of your pregnancy. Strange to think back 39 weeks, where you wouldn’t even have known you were pregnant. Lots has changed since then, and a lot will continue to change before and after birth. Your body at week 39 At this point, you’ll definitely be feeling your pregnancy. Braxton Hicks contractions, leaking colostrum from your nipples and the frequent urge to urinate may all be part of your daily life. You may be having trouble sleeping, struggling with pelvic and back pain, and your vaginal discharge may be tinged with pink or brown as the blood vessels n your cervix rupture. It is possible to be diagnosed with preeclampsia in your last weeks of pregnancy. This is high blood pressure in pregnancy and is accompanied by protein in your urine and swelling of the hands and feet. Vomiting, nausea and dizziness are also symptoms you may have preeclampsia, and if you suspect you have it you’ll need to contact your doctor right away. Your baby at week 39 Your baby is now roughly the size of a honeydew melon and is considered full term if they’re born this week. At this point, their lungs are producing surfactant so that when they take their first breath, the air sacs won’t stick together. Things you should keep in mind at week 39 You may be wondering if you can still keep doing light exercise, or what you can do to keep active during this time. Exercise in late pregnancy is still doable and is a good idea if you’re feeling up to it. Although you may be worried about damaging your growing baby, exercise during this time is beneficial as it can help strengthen your body for delivery and birth. That being said, it’s important to clarify what you plan on doing with your doctor, and focus on short, low-intensity exercises such as certain yoga and water aerobics.

October 21, 2024

BALANCING SCREEN TIME WITH PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Balancing Screen Time with Physical Activity: Wingu Academy’s Blueprint for Success In an increasingly digital world, where screen time is an unavoidable part of daily life, finding the right balance with physical activity is essential for maintaining overall health and wellness. At Wingu Academy, we recognize the importance of this balance and are committed to ensuring that our students remain active and engaged, both online and offline. Our innovative approach combines cutting-edge technology with a focus on physical health, creating a holistic educational experience that supports students in every aspect of their lives. The Screen Time Dilemma The rise of online learning has introduced new challenges, particularly concerning physical health. Extended periods of screen time can lead to issues such as eye strain, poor posture, and a sedentary lifestyle. These challenges are compounded by the lack of regular physical activity, which is crucial for maintaining physical and mental wellbeing. At Wingu Academy, we understand these concerns and have proactively developed strategies to integrate physical activity into our students’ daily routines. As part of the efforts to balance daily routines, Wingu Academy has made available the year-long fitness club as part of the club offering at Wingu Academy.  This ensures physical activity is seamlessly incorporated into our online learning environment. Striking the Balance Between Screen Time and Physical Activity At Wingu Academy, we recognize the importance of balancing academic engagement and physical well-being in an online learning environment. Our year-long fitness club is designed to encourage students to incorporate regular physical activity into their daily routines, countering the sedentary nature of online learning. The fitness club offers students a variety of activities, including yoga, strength training, and cardiovascular exercises, that can be done from the comfort of their homes. This program runs throughout the academic year, ensuring that physical health remains a priority. The club not only promotes exercise but also fosters a community where students can share their progress, set fitness goals, and stay motivated. By integrating this fitness initiative, Wingu Academy addresses the challenge of screen time overload, helping students build habits that support both their physical and mental health. Regular physical activity has been shown to enhance focus, improve cognitive function, and reduce stress, all of which contribute to a more holistic and balanced educational experience.   Experience Wingu Academy’s Unique Approach Join us for our Open Day on October 5th at the Wingu Academy South Suburbs Campus to discover firsthand how we empower students for the future with an innovative, world-class education that prioritises wellness. Meet our team, explore our programs, and see how we’re making a meaningful difference in students’ lives. Register today and take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced, and empowering educational journey!

October 21, 2024

HOW TO ENCOURAGE A GROWTH MINDSET IN CHILDREN

Have you heard of a growth mindset? It’s become somewhat of a buzzword lately and that’s because it really does make a difference to a child’s ability to learn something and their confidence in trying new things. A fixed mindset is one in which we say things like: “I can’t do that” or “I am not good at something”. It’s the belief that our abilities are fixed – that we are either clever or not, either sporty or not. The growth mindset is the opposite. With a growth mindset we acknowledge that we can always improve with a bit of effort. We understand that our brains are not fixed, but constantly changing; that our abilities are not just genetic but influenced by what we do. We see that it is possible for all people to learn new things, even though it may be more of a challenge for some. Why does this matter? Well, with a fixed mindset a child is less likely to try new things, and more likely to give up when something gets difficult – which can seriously limit their options in life. It also leads to misidentification and self-handicapping – protecting themselves from failure by either not investing their self-esteem or identity into something difficult, or having a good excuse ready for falling short. So here are ten tips for maintaining and encouraging a growth mindset: Expose your children to information on how the brain changes and learns. Teach them that intelligence grows like a muscle and it needs challenge in order to get the right exercise. Don’t praise cleverness – praise effort. Focus on a child’s hard work rather than on the outcome of that work or on fixed measurements like IQ. Encourage failure. Praise children for giving something a go and for having the courage to face challenges. Let them celebrate their failures as a sign of being brave enough to try. Show them how failure leads to growth. Avoid superhero worship. Focus on everyday people who do amazing things through hard work and struggle. Tell them stories of your own doubts and challenges and how you made it through. Teach them to say, “How can I?” instead of “I can’t”. Using a question opens up creative thinking and stops the brain from giving up on the problem. Teach them to add “…yet” to the end of things they can’t do. For example, “I can’t do maths… yet”. This helps them to focus on what they still need to do to master something rather than on their current inability. Give them examples of others who have failed and succeeded e.g. basketball players missing more goals than they hit. Give them examples of where they have failed and succeeded e.g. struggling with a new computer game that they now play effortlessly. 10. Acknowledge their frustration when they are doing something difficult without jumping in and doing things for them. Everything is difficult at first. Our kids often don’t get good role models of this because they see us doing things that we’ve done for years and years and of course these things look easy. Then they try to do these same things and struggle. We need to remind them that we also struggled once. In fact, everyone struggles to some degree with a new task. But with practice and a dedication to continue, everything gets easier. We were all born with the ability to learn and grow – not just some people.

October 18, 2024
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