School of Rock Parktown North

Music all year round: Why School of Rock Parktown North Is the Gift That Keeps Giving

At School of Rock Parktown North, we don’t just teach kids how to play instruments, we help them build confidence, creativity, community, and lifelong skills. As the year winds down and festive energy sets in, many of you are probably looking for enriching activities that give you and the kids more than just a hobby. Here’s why the School of Rock experience is a perfect fit for the season! Beyond Notes: The Many Benefits of Music Education Music isn’t just fun; it’s transformative. Learning an instrument or singing can improve language development, memory, concentration, and even academic performance. Why School of Rock Parktown North Does It Differently At School of Rock Parktown North, we believe that learning music should be fun, social, and purposeful. Our model combines individual lessons with band rehearsals and live-performance opportunities, giving kids a real chance to experience what it’s like to be in a rock band. Holiday Workshops for Kids: December & January This festive season, our Holiday Workshops give children a fun, structured way to explore music while school is out. Open to both new and current students during December and January, these workshops offer: Whether a child is picking up an instrument for the first time or expanding existing skills, our workshops provide inspiration, fun, and confidence through music. Please pop us an email at [email protected] or Whatsapp us on 074 322 2000 for more info and to book a slot!  Corporate Year-End Workshops & Team- building events School of Rock Parktown North also offers corporate and adult-focused workshops that are perfect for companies looking for a creative way to celebrate the end of the year. These sessions are designed to be fun, team-oriented, and stress-relieving: These workshops offer a unique, memorable way to close out the year; combining music, collaboration, and a little bit of festive cheer. Reach out at [email protected] or Whatsapp us on 074 322 2000 for more details.  A Great Time to Start (or Re-Start) With the new year around the corner, there’s no better time to explore what music can offer. Whether you or your child has never touched an instrument, are looking to deepen skills, or want a creative team-building experience, School of Rock Parktown North is ready to welcome you all with open arms. Let music be more than a gift this holiday!

December 1, 2025
Educ8 SA

My child has unique learning needs and how can Educ8 SA assist

Are you a parent of a child with unique learning needs? Look no further than Educ8 SA to provide the specialised education your child deserves. Our team of highly trained professionals understands that every child has a different learning style and requires individualised attention. With our comprehensive range of programs and resources, we are committed to empowering your child to reach their full potential. Understanding unique learning needs When it comes to education, one size does not fit all. Children with unique learning needs face specific challenges that require tailored support. Understanding these needs is essential to provide the right educational environment for these children. Unique learning needs can encompass a wide range of conditions, including dyslexia, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and more. Each child’s learning challenges are unique, and it’s crucial to approach their education with sensitivity and expertise. At Educ8 SA, we believe that every child, regardless of their learning challenges, is capable of achieving academic success. Our team is dedicated to understanding the individual needs of each child and providing the necessary support to help them thrive. Challenges faced by children with unique learning needs  Children with unique learning needs often face various challenges that can affect their educational journey. For example, a child with dyslexia may struggle with reading comprehension and writing skills, while a child with ADHD may have difficulty with focus and organisation. These challenges can make it challenging for these children to keep up with traditional teaching methods and may result in a loss of confidence and motivation. Educ8 SA recognises these challenges and works closely with each child to overcome them. We understand that it is essential to address the underlying difficulties these children face to provide them with the tools they need to succeed. The importance of tailored education for children with unique learning needs One of the most crucial aspects of supporting children with unique learning needs is providing them with a tailored education. Each child requires a customised approach that considers their strengths, weaknesses, and individual learning style. By tailoring education to their specific needs, we can create an environment where they can thrive and reach their full potential. At Educ8 SA, we take pride in our personalised approach to education. Our team of professionals takes the time to assess each child’s strengths and weaknesses, allowing us to develop a customised learning plan. By addressing their unique needs, we can help children overcome challenges, build confidence, and develop essential academic and life skills. The benefits of Educ8 SA’s specialised programs Educ8 SA offers a range of specialised programs designed to meet the unique learning needs of each child. Our programs are carefully crafted to address specific challenges and provide a supportive environment for growth and development. Here are some of the benefits of our specialised programs: Research-based strategies: We stay up-to-date with the latest research in education and learning disabilities, incorporating evidence-based strategies into our programs. By using proven methods, we can maximise the effectiveness of our teaching and support. Innovative teaching methods: We believe in embracing innovation to enhance the learning experience. Our teachers utilise technology and interactive resources to engage students and make learning more enjoyable and effective. Holistic approach: At Educ8 SA, we understand that education goes beyond academics. Our programs focus on developing essential life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and self-confidence. We aim to empower children with the skills they need to succeed in all aspects of life. Success stories from students at Educ8 SA The impact of Educ8 SA’s specialised programs can be seen through the success stories of our students. Many children who have struggled in traditional educational settings have thrived under our tailored approach. Here are a few inspiring stories: A student with dyslexia, joined Educ8 SA when she was struggling to keep up with her classmates. With personalised support and specialised reading programs, she not only improved her reading skills but also gained confidence and a love for learning. Another student with ADHD, found it challenging to focus in a traditional classroom environment. At Educ8 SA, he received individualised attention and learned techniques to manage his attention difficulties. This enabled him to excel academically and develop better organisational skills. These success stories are a testament to the effectiveness of our specialised programs in helping children overcome their learning challenges and achieve their full potential. How Educ8 SA supports parents and caregivers  At Educ8 SA, we understand that parents and caregivers play a crucial role in their child’s educational journey. We believe in fostering a collaborative partnership between educators and families to ensure the best possible outcomes. Here’s how we support parents and caregivers: Regular communication: We maintain open lines of communication with parents and caregivers, providing regular updates on their child’s progress and addressing any concerns or questions they may have. Parent zoom sessions and support: We offer parent zoom sessions and support for parents and caregivers to provide them with valuable resources and a supportive community. These sessions cover various topics related to education, learning disabilities, and parenting strategies. Parent education sessions: We provide parents with the knowledge and tools they need to support their child’s learning at home. These sessions offer practical tips and strategies that can be implemented in everyday life to reinforce the skills learned in the classroom. Additional resources and support for children with unique learning needs In addition to our specialised programs, Educ8 SA offers a range of additional resources and support for children with unique learning needs. These resources are designed to complement our programs and provide further assistance in overcoming challenges. Some of these resources include: Assistive technology: We utilise various assistive technologies to support children with specific learning needs. These technologies can help improve reading, writing, organisation, and overall learning outcomes. Learning materials and resources: We provide children with access to a wide range of learning materials and resources tailored to their individual needs. These resources support their learning journey and help reinforce concepts taught in the classroom. Individualised support

December 1, 2025
Parenting Hub

How The Elf on the Shelf Makes School Breaks Easier, Happier, and a Little More Magical!

The December school holidays are long, full of energy, and can often leave parents wondering how to keep children entertained, engaged, and inspired—without spending every day running activities or relying on screens. That’s where The Elf on the Shelf comes in. More than a festive tradition, your Scout Elf becomes a small, magical companion that helps create moments of joy and surprise throughout the holidays. Ready to make your mornings merry, magical, and stress-free? Here are seven ways The Elf on the Shelf can bring a little extra sparkle to your festive season: 1. Start the Day with a Spark of Magic A Scout Elf brings anticipation into the mornings. Each night, your Scout Elf returns to the North Pole, and in the morning, they reappear somewhere new in your home. Whether perched on a shelf, resting on a kitchen counter, or “reading” a tiny book, the Scout Elf’s new spot sparks excitement, curiosity, and joy. These small surprises can set a positive tone for the day, giving children a moment to pause, wonder, and smile before the day begins. Here’s a glimpse into how @baileygeorgiades brings the Scout Elf tradition to life in her home, filling each day with festive joy. 2. Introduce Gentle Structure Long summer days can feel unstructured for children. Your Scout Elf can provide subtle guidance without pressure. For example, a small note next to your Scout Elf can suggest a creative activity for the day, such as drawing a festive picture, or helping with a quick household task. The Elf on the Shelf becomes a fun way to encourage routines, responsibility, and mindfulness, while still keeping the magic alive. 3. Keep The Elf on the Shelf Moments Simple You don’t need elaborate setups or complicated props. Children are delighted by simple, relatable scenarios. A Scout Elf sitting inside a shoe, peeking from a cereal shelf, resting in a sunny spot, or even taking a “cooling break” in the fridge can create just as much excitement. Simplicity is often the key to creating memorable mornings without extra stress. 4. Inspire Creativity and Independent Play Without touching your Scout Elf—so its magical powers remain intact—children can still engage with the tradition by creating little surprises nearby: leaving a tiny note for their Scout Elf, crafting paper decorations, or building a festive scene. These activities spark independent, imaginative play while giving parents a few peaceful moments during busy days. Want to see the magic in action? Here’s how @elena_pappas and her family enjoy their Scout Elves during the festive season. 5. Encourage Positive Behaviour December is full of excitement, and sometimes high energy can lead to tension. A Scout Elf can reinforce positive behaviour in a gentle, playful way. Your Scout Elf might leave a note praising a kind action or appear in a tidy space as if “noticing” the effort. This helps children understand that thoughtfulness, helpfulness, and cooperation are appreciated—even during busy holiday months. 6. Add Variety with Accessories The Scout Elf experience can be brought to life even further with the Elf Pets, Claus Couture, and Polar Props collections. Outfits, tiny props, and festive companions help keep the tradition fresh and exciting, giving each elf a unique personality and playful scenario. Best of all, these additions create magical mornings without any extra stress for parents. 7. Capture the Joy The true magic of The Elf on the Shelf is in the reactions: wide eyes, surprised giggles, and delighted laughter. These authentic moments become lasting memories, whether you capture them in photos or simply enjoy them as a family. Adopt Your Scout Elf and Bring the Magic Home The Elf on the Shelf brings joy, creativity, subtle structure, and a little calm to the busy December holidays.  If you’re ready to start this heartwarming tradition—or continue one your family already loves—you can adopt your Scout Elf at select Toy Kingdom, Exclusive Books, and Hamleys stores, Takealot online, and your favourite independent toy store. A small companion from the North Pole may be the easiest, most meaningful addition to your holiday season this year.

December 1, 2025
Cartoon Network Africa

Powerpuff Girls Bench Sparks Girl-led Change

Unveiling the Powerpuff Girls Safe Space Bench, Phillipi Village, Cape Town In a vibrant celebration of girl power, community spirit, and creativity, the new Powerpuff Girls Safe Space Bench was unveiled at Philippi Village’s Daughter Thembi Garden. This bold piece of public artwork was conceived through a partnership between Cartoon Network, girl-led non-profit BRAVE, and Philippi Village, a collaborative hub for entrepreneurship, education, culture, and community. It stands as a symbol of safety, resilience, and possibility for girls and young women in Philippi, and across South Africa, reminding us that change often begins in local communities, where young voices lead the way. The unveiling coincides with the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, offering a hopeful, youth-led moment to reflect on what safety means to girls today, and how creativity, storytelling, and community can help shape safer futures. The Safe Space Bench is a physical and creative anchor for these conversations, a bold, public symbol of dignity, safety, and the power of young women to shape their own futures. Cartoon Network, South Africa’s favourite kids’ channel*, is known for its empowering characters and imaginative storytelling. “Cartoon Network is proud to support the incredible work being done by BRAVE and Philippi Village,” said Sarah Jane Morgan, Director, Brand, Marketing and Digital, Kids Networks EMEA, Warner Bros. Discovery. “The Powerpuff Girls Safe Space Bench embodies our commitment to inspiring young people, especially girls, to be courageous, creative, and agents of real-world change.” The initiative draws inspiration from the iconic Powerpuff Girls, Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup, who embody the courage, collaboration, and bold self-expression of the girls at BRAVE and Philippi Village. The bench itself was designed by local artist Lovell Friedman, and joins other community art landmarks in Philippi Village, transforming public spaces into hubs for storytelling and collective hope. BRAVE, a girl-led organisation focused on leadership and resilience, played a central role in shaping the campaign. “This bench is more than just a place to sit, it’s a safe space for children, where girls can be heard and not just seen,” said Zita Chaule, a BRAVE participant and youth spokesperson. “It’s about creating a world where girls can thrive, not just survive. Just like the Powerpuff Girls, we are stronger together!” Philippi Village, as host and co-creator, helped bring the bench to life through its commitment to inclusive placemaking and youth empowerment. “At Philippi Village, our mission is to co-create a safe and vibrant space that connects people to the services, opportunities, and cultural activities that help communities thrive,” said Simphiwe Nikani, CEO of Philippi Village. “The Safe Space Bench represents this vision in action, a small yet powerful symbol of care, belonging, and safety. Together with our partners, we continue to reimagine a space that is healthy, connected, and compassionate, where no one has to sit alone. As a community, we are redefining what safety and connection look like, one space, one conversation, one act of kindness at a time. Through partnerships like this, we bring our vision of a safer, healthier, and more connected space to life.” As part of the campaign, a powerful short video spotlighting one of the girls behind the bench. In these videos, a girl from Philippi Village reflects on what safety means to her and how she’s creating change in her communities. This story brings the spirit of the bench to life, bold, honest, and deeply rooted in lived experience. Ncebakazi is upgrading her matric at Philippi Village and dreams of becoming a teacher. She thrives in spaces that challenge her to learn, grow, and lead. The campaign continues until 10 December, aligning with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. While BRAVE and Philippi Village lead the on-the-ground work with girls and communities, Cartoon Network’s contribution is symbolic, offering a safe space through the Powerpuff Girls Safe Space Bench as a public anchor for conversations about dignity, resilience, and belonging. Together, the partners aim to spark dialogue, amplify youth voices, and inspire communities to reflect on what safety means for girls today.

November 28, 2025
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

The role of medical aids in the long game of HIV eradication in SA

South Africa enters World Aids Day this year at a pivotal moment. While the country has made significant strides in reducing new infections and improving access to treatment, HIV remains a major public health challenge. Millions of South Africans rely on the national HIV programme, placing sustained pressure on public clinics to provide prevention, testing and treatment services. Within this landscape, medical aids play a critical supporting role through structured, long-term HIV care offered to members, which helps to ease the burden on public facilities while ensuring people living with HIV receive consistent, high-quality treatment.  Though often understated in national discussions, this support contributes to the same long-term goals as the national HIV response, which are early diagnosis, continuous treatment and viral suppression at scale.  ‘The future of HIV care depends on consistency, not crisis response,’ says Dr Themba Hadebe, Clinical Executive at Bonitas Medical Fund. ‘Medical aids have a responsibility to make that consistency possible by supporting members with reliable access to treatment, monitoring and counselling.’ Adapting to a changing HIV care landscape This form of support matters more as national policy shifts. South Africa’s HIV treatment approach now makes it easier for people living with HIV to access care and stay on treatment. For members, this means fewer clinic visits, more convenient ways to get medicine, and additional avenues for support – all designed to help them maintain long-term health and wellbeing. ‘Structured HIV programmes ensure that members benefit from regular health checks, emotional support and guidance from trained counsellors in addition to receiving the medicine they need,’ says Hadebe. ‘This helps them manage side effects, understand their treatment plans and address challenges early, reducing the risk of interruptions and supporting sustained health outcomes.’ Early detection remains a cornerstone of the national HIV response. Expanding access to self-testing and pharmacy-led services allows more people to know their status sooner, creating opportunities for immediate treatment and ongoing care. Consistent support ensures that individuals start treatment promptly, stay engaged, and achieve viral suppression – outcomes that are essential to limiting transmission and protecting public health. ‘Long-term success in HIV care depends on consistent support and follow-up at every stage, from early diagnosis to ongoing treatment and emotional guidance,’ says Hadebe. ‘When people have access to regular monitoring, counselling and timely interventions, it improves individual outcomes as well as strengthens the health system as a whole.’ Achieving South Africa’s 95‑95‑95 targets depends on well-coordinated, long-term systems. While public health facilities carry the bulk of the responsibility, structured programmes in the private sector play a vital supporting role. ‘World AIDS Day is a reminder that progress relies on continuity, and that prevention, testing and treatment must be sustained to be effective. Consistent, structured support strengthens the national response, helps reduce new infections, and improves the lives of people living with HIV across the country,’ concludes Hadebe.

November 28, 2025
Cartoonito

Scooby-Doo Movie Stars Special: Mysteries, Laughs & Family Fun!

Grab your snacks and join the gang! 🐾🎬 Scooby-Doo Movie Stars Special is packed with mystery, adventure, and laughs for the whole family. From Lego Scooby-Doo’s beach bashes to haunted Hollywood escapades, vampire concerts, pirate adventures, and more, there’s a Scooby-Doo movie for every weekend in November. Watch as Scooby, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma unravel mysteries, dodge spooky villains, and share moments of friendship and fun that kids and parents can enjoy together. Don’t miss this exclusive Scooby-Doo marathon—perfect for family viewing! Premiere: ⏰ Monday, 8 November 2025Tune-In: 📺 Weekends @ 09:40 CAT / Saturdays @ 14:00 CAT on Channel 302 Exclusive: ends 30 November 2025

November 28, 2025
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