Medicalaid.com

A father’s (unofficial, but honest) guide to pregnancy

Pregnancy is often described as a time of joy, anticipation and transformation, but for many fathers-to-be it can also feel like uncharted territory. While expectant mothers are the focus of much of the medical care and attention, partners play a vital role throughout the journey. Understanding the changes, both physical and emotional, that accompany pregnancy can help fathers provide meaningful support and strengthen the bond with both mother and baby. For men who have never navigated pregnancy before, the experience can feel overwhelming. Questions about how to help, what to expect and how to prepare for fatherhood often arise, sometimes quietly and without clear answers. While every pregnancy is unique, one constant remains: the presence of a supportive partner can make a measurable difference to the well-being of both mother and child. Research has shown that women who feel emotionally supported during pregnancy are less likely to experience complications such as antenatal depression, which can affect long-term family health. The first step is simply being present. Medical appointments, antenatal classes and routine check-ups are not just for mothers. When fathers attend, they signal that the journey is shared. Listening carefully to health professionals, asking questions and offering encouragement can ease anxiety. For many women, pregnancy brings dramatic physical changes that can be uncomfortable and sometimes frightening. When a partner acknowledges these changes without judgement and offers practical help, from preparing meals to sharing household responsibilities, it lightens the load and fosters trust. Pregnancy also brings emotional shifts that may be less visible. Hormonal changes can influence mood, but so too can the anticipation of birth and the realities of a growing family. Fathers who learn to listen without rushing to solve every problem often provide the greatest comfort. Sometimes the most valuable support lies in simply asking, “How are you feeling today?” and being ready to listen. For fathers, pregnancy is also a time of personal adjustment. The prospect of becoming a parent can stir up excitement, but also fears about responsibility, financial pressures and changing relationships. Talking openly with a partner about these concerns is important, but fathers should also recognise the value of peer support. Speaking with other new or experienced fathers, joining a prenatal group or even seeking professional guidance can provide reassurance and practical ideas. In South Africa, where extended family networks often remain strong, reaching out to relatives who have walked the path before can be an invaluable source of wisdom. As pregnancy progresses, fathers can prepare by learning about labour and delivery. Many hospitals and clinics offer courses on what to expect in the delivery room. These sessions not only demystify the process but also teach techniques such as breathing exercises, massage and ways to offer reassurance during labour. A father who understands what is happening is less likely to feel powerless and more likely to be a calming presence when it matters most. Bonding with the baby can begin long before birth. Talking to the unborn child, reading aloud, or even playing gentle music can help create a sense of connection. Ultrasound scans, where available, often make the pregnancy feel more real, allowing fathers to visualise the life they are preparing to welcome. For many men, the first kick felt beneath a hand placed gently on the mother’s stomach is a transformative moment. Practical preparation is another cornerstone. From setting up a safe sleeping space for the baby to understanding the basics of nappies, feeding and car seat installation, fathers who take an active role reduce the burden on their partners and signal that parenting is a shared responsibility. These actions may seem small, but they lay the groundwork for an involved fatherhood that benefits the whole family. The journey of pregnancy is not without challenges. There may be complications, unexpected medical advice or moments of stress that test patience. Fathers are not expected to have all the answers. What matters most is a willingness to learn, adapt and remain a steady presence. Encouraging healthy habits such as balanced meals, exercise where appropriate and adequate rest supports both mother and baby. Pregnancy, in many ways, is as much about partnership as it is about birth. When fathers engage with openness and commitment, they contribute not only to the health of their child but also to the strength of their relationship. The months leading up to birth are an opportunity to grow together, to share fears and hopes, and to establish patterns of care that will carry into the first years of parenthood. For fathers, the guide to pregnancy is not found in a single manual but in everyday actions: listening, supporting, preparing and being present. Each step taken with intention lays the foundation for a family that begins not only with the arrival of a child, but with the shared journey of bringing that child into the world.

October 10, 2025
Cartoonito

Grizzy & the Lemmings Are Back – And This Time, They’re Touring Asia!

If your family loves laugh-out-loud chaos, then you’re in for a treat! Brand-new episodes of Grizzy & the Lemmings are coming exclusively to your screen — and this season promises even more wild adventures. Follow Grizzy, the loveable bear who just wants peace, quiet, and a little comfort, as he battles it out once again with the mischievous, mayhem-loving lemmings. Their rivalry over the ranger’s cabin and its modern conveniences is hilariously unstoppable, and now they’re taking their antics on a World Tour! This fresh batch of episodes sees Grizzy and the lemmings traveling through Asia, bringing a brand-new backdrop to their epic chases and slapstick mischief — before heading back to their familiar Canadian wilderness. 📺 Premieres: Monday, 13 October 2025⏰ Tune-In: Monday to Friday at 17:15 CAT Get ready for an after-school dose of fun, clever gags, and laugh-out-loud battles that the whole family can enjoy together.

October 10, 2025
Wingu Academy

The Wingu Academy Online Teaching Approach: Personalised, Engaging, and Future-Ready

At Wingu Academy Online School, our teaching approach is designed to combine personalised learning with academic rigour, ensuring every student receives the guidance and support they need to excel. A Balanced Learning Experience Every learner benefits from a carefully structured mix of self-paced study and live, teacher-led classes. This combination allows students to develop independence while also engaging directly with expert educators, fostering a deeper understanding of the curriculum. Supporting Every Learning Style Recognising that each student learns differently, Wingu Academy offers interactive workshops, discussion-based classes, and one-on-one support. Our model ensures that visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners all have the tools to succeed. Guidance from Student Success Advisors and Learning Coaches Every Wingulian is supported by Student Success Advisors (SSAs) and Learning Coaches, who provide personalised guidance, monitor progress, and help students overcome challenges. This support system ensures learners remain motivated, focused, and equipped to thrive academically and personally. With Wingu Academy, students don’t just learn—they develop the skills, confidence, and habits that prepare them for a future-ready education and beyond.

October 10, 2025
Freebees PR

Dry skin and hair after winter? Here’s how to get a spring glow-up without breaking the bank

Did you know that spring is often referred to as the “season of hope”? Seeing nature come back to life after months of icy temperatures, strong winds, and rain serves as a reminder that there is always a chance for new beginnings. Spring is also a time for renewal, for starting afresh and for implementing healthy new habits.  For most of us, winter involves some degree of hibernation. Less going out, less socialising and paying less attention to our skin and bodies, which are usually wrapped up in several layers of clothing. Add in low humidity and harsh indoor heating, and many of us are left with dry skin and hair that require some serious TLC. Now that spring is within reach and the season for summer dresses and sandals is near, it’s time to pay a little closer attention to our skin, hair and bodies. Scaly skin, dry hair and cracked heels may be associated with winter, but you don’t need to go into spring looking less than your best.  Here’s how to easily (and affordably!) put your spring glow-up in motion.  Get your feet sandal-ready After months of socks, boots and sneakers, chances are your feet need a little bit of attention before you head outside in your favourite pair of sandals. A good scrub twice a week, followed by a nourishing moisturiser, will go a long way in repairing dry and cracked skin. Citrusway Exfoliating Sugar Foot Scrub softens and smooths the skin while removing dead skin cells. Gently massage the scrub into your feet in circular motions, paying special attention to drier areas. Next, apply Citrusway Foot Restoration Cream. With its antibacterial properties, this moisture-rich solution helps soften dry, cracked heels while rejuvenating the skin. Apply daily to get your feet sandal-ready. Smell fresh as daisies With the weather warming up, you’ll need to be more diligent about applying your deodorant every morning. Spring is the perfect time to switch from your more decadent, woody scents to fresh and floral alternatives. Stay fresh all day long without exposing your skin to potentially harmful ingredients like aluminium, with Earthsap’s range of natural Roll-ons. Made from pure and simple ingredients, these roll-ons won’t harm or irritate your skin. Floral enthusiasts will love the Wild Rose & Vanilla scent, while those who prefer a clean, fresh scent will adore Tea Tree & Lemon.   Slough off dry skin cells Because our skin is covered in winter and we aren’t as diligent about exfoliating and moisturising as usual, there may be a build-up of dead skin cells by the time spring arrives. This can lead to clogged pores, ingrown hair, flakiness and a dull appearance. Incorporate a body scrub into your routine, and be diligent about gently exfoliating your body twice a week. Best applied with a mitt or loofah, gently massage the product into your skin in circular motions, from bottom to top, moving in the direction of your heart. This helps promote circulation and lymphatic drainage. Bodylab Vitamin C Exfoliating Salt Scrub contains hyaluronic acid for hydration and vitamin C for radiance. The fine crystals slough off dry and dead skin cells to promote softer, smoother and more luminous skin. Restore your skin barrier The outermost layer of our skin is known as the skin barrier, and it acts as a protective shield, preventing harmful bacteria and substances from entering the body. Cold and dry air, as well as indoor heating, can weaken the skin barrier, resulting in difficulty retaining moisture and preventing irritants from entering the body. This can lead to dryness, redness, itching, discomfort, and sensitivity.  At the end of winter, your skin likely needs a moisture boost, but if your barrier is compromised, it may need some help locking that moisture in. Invest in a quality serum and moisturiser that contains healing and hydrating ingredients, such as SKNLogic Hydrating Serum and Derma Repair Balm. The Hydrating Serum offers an immediate moisture boost thanks to hyaluronic acid, argan oil, olive oil, grape seed oil and more. The lightweight formula works quickly, saturating the skin for intense hydration. The Derma Repair Balm was specifically designed to restore dry, damaged skin while deeply hydrating it. It contains a host of nourishing natural ingredients, including prickly pear extract, jojoba, and shea butter. It soothes, protects and heals. Hydrate on the go As we transition into spring, your skin may need a little pick-me-up throughout the day. A refreshing facial mist is just the answer. It moisturises, soothes, and refreshes the skin, while also cooling on a hot or humid day. SOiL recently launched its debut skincare collection, and its range of Face Mists (with certified organic essential oils) not only benefits the skin but also acts as a mood lifter. SOiL Facial Mists are available in four variants: Rose Blossom, Lavender, Rosemary, and Rose Geranium. Rejuvenate your hair There is nothing quite like dry, cold air and wind to wreak havoc on your hair. The humidity is ultra-low during winter, which means there is very little moisture in the air for your hair to draw from. That means drier hair and a bigger likelihood of breakage and split ends.  For straight and wavy hair in need of some TLC, try the Two Oceans Argan Oil Collection. Enriched with castor oil and argan oil, the products are rich in vitamins E, A, C and F to revive hair from root to tip and minimise frizz. Start by cleansing with the Two Oceans Argan Oil Shampoo, then follow with the Conditioner. For hair in need of a little extra nourishment, apply a few drops of the Argan Oil Serum before blow-drying. Curly hair is particularly vulnerable to dryness during winter, because the shape of a curl makes it more difficult for the moisturising sebum produced by the scalp to make its way down the hair shaft. By the time spring arrives, curly hair will likely need plenty of additional moisture.  If you have a dry scalp or split ends, try applying some Jozi Curls Hair & Scalp Oil directly to your scalp and massage gently. This non-greasy formula moisturises the scalp and hair, adding softness and shine. To moisturise, hydrate

October 9, 2025
Impaq

Education beyond the traditional classroom: The benefits of home and online schooling for South African learners

Change is the only constant. And while it may seem that nothing much has really changed about the traditional classroom model, it is important to recognise that it is not the only viable path.  This is according to Louise Schoonwinkel, Managing Director of Optimi Schooling, of which Impaq is a registered trademark, who explains that home and online schooling has emerged as compelling alternatives to the traditional system.  “When it comes to educating our children, a one-size-fits-all approach is becoming obsolete. There is a growing need for a more dynamic, learner-centric model that is fit-for-purpose and accessible,” she says.  One of the most significant advantages of home and online schooling is the ability to tailor the educational journey to the individual learner. The conventional school system operates on a set pace, with students moving through a curriculum in lockstep. This can be problematic, as some learners grasp concepts quickly and may become disengaged, while others require more time to master subjects and risk falling behind.  Learner-centric learning  Home and online schooling dismantles these rigid boundaries, allowing children to learn at their own pace. As Schoonwinkel points out, “Education today is about putting the needs of the learner first, which starts with the acknowledgement that the days of a one-size-fits-all approach are both outdated and simply no longer necessary.”  This approach allows a student to spend extra time on a challenging topic until they truly understand it, or to accelerate through a subject they find easy. It fosters a deeper understanding of the material and cultivates a genuine love for learning, moving beyond the pressure to simply pass exams. Personalised learning is the central premise of both home- and online schooling. It encourages learners to take responsibility for their own education, fostering self-discipline and independent thinking.   “I completed my high school career through Impaq, and it was one of the best decisions I could have made for my future,” says Tiwhan Botha – now 19 – who matriculated in 2024. “The homeschooling structure taught me how to work independently, manage my time effectively, and take responsibility for my own progress. I now apply these skills daily in my role as office manager at a company specialising in Body Corporate and HOA management. The self-discipline and independence I developed at Impaq help me handle large volumes of administration, client service, and management tasks with confidence and accuracy.” “Impaq’s flexibility gave me the opportunity to focus on academic content, but also to develop life skills that prepared me for the realities of the professional world. Since I became used to managing my own schedule, I am now able to balance both my work and my studies. I am currently completing my LLB degree through UNISA, and every day I see how Impaq’s system taught me to work consistently, with perseverance and a clear sense of purpose.”  Rather than being passive recipients of information, students become active participants in their learning process. Parents or caregivers assume a supporting role, guiding their child’s educational journey rather than acting as a traditional teacher. This self-directed approach helps to build confidence and prepares learners for a future that will demand self-management and continuous learning.  What’s more, an agile structure allows for a broader range of subject choices. Learners are not limited by the resources available in a single school; instead, they have the freedom to explore other subjects such as coding, creative arts, or entrepreneurship. Adding options like these makes learning more meaningful and directly aligns education with a child’s interests and future aspirations. Tech and tools  The accessibility and power of technology are central to the success of this educational shift. “The rise of online schooling platforms has made quality education available to learners regardless of their geographical location,” Schoonwinkel says. It leverages digital tools and resources to create a rich and interactive learning environment.  Beyond just accessibility, technology enriches the learning experience itself. Digital platforms can offer interactive lessons, educational videos and real-time assessments that provide immediate feedback. This level of engagement can make complex topics more understandable and engaging for learners. Myth busters  Contrary to common myths, home and online schooling are far from haphazard. Schoonwinkel confirms that these learners follow structured, reputable curricula like CAPS, which ensures they receive the same National Senior Certificate (NSC) as traditionally schooled learners. This fact is crucial, as it reassures parents that their child’s education is not compromised.  Further, one of the most persistent myths surrounding homeschooling is the idea that it leads to social isolation. However, this concern is largely unfounded. As Schoonwinkel advises, “The reality is that home and online schooled learners often have more flexibility to engage in activities outside of a school setting. Socialising does happen – it just looks different.” Joining homeschooling groups, sports clubs, or online communities can help learners build strong social connections. For families with children involved in demanding activities, home and online schooling provides the necessary flexibility to balance education with personal passions, creating a well-rounded individual. Ultimately, the decision to pursue home or online schooling is a personal one, but it is a choice that is increasingly being recognised as a legitimate and beneficial alternative.  It represents a paradigm shift from a one-size-fits-all approach to an educational model that is dynamic and truly puts the needs of the learner first. By leveraging technology and embracing alternative education methodologies, home and online schooling provide a powerful pathway for South African learners to achieve a quality, future-ready education that is tailored to their unique pace and passions.

October 9, 2025
Parenting Hub

Teaching Gratitude to Children: Practical Ideas

Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you”—it’s a mindset that fosters positivity, resilience, and empathy. Teaching children to appreciate the world around them can have lasting benefits, including improved mental well-being, stronger social bonds, and a more optimistic outlook on life. 🌱 Why Gratitude Matters Grateful children tend to be happier, more optimistic, and better at handling stress. Research indicates that practicing gratitude can enhance emotional regulation and contribute to a positive self-image. By instilling gratitude early, we equip children with a tool to navigate life’s challenges with grace and appreciation. 🎨 Creative Gratitude Activities 1. Gratitude Tree or JarCreate a visual representation of gratitude by having children write or draw things they’re thankful for on leaves or slips of paper. Place them in a jar or attach them to a tree displayed at home. This activity encourages regular reflection and serves as a tangible reminder of blessings. 2. Gratitude Scavenger HuntTurn gratitude into an interactive game by organizing a scavenger hunt. Provide a list of items or experiences for children to find and reflect upon, such as something that makes them smile or a person who helps them. This activity promotes mindfulness and appreciation of everyday moments. 3. Thankful ABCsChallenge children to list things they’re grateful for from A to Z. This activity not only stimulates creativity but also helps children recognize the abundance of positive aspects in their lives. 4. Gratitude CollageEncourage children to cut out pictures from magazines or draw representations of things they’re thankful for. Assemble these images into a collage, allowing children to visually express their gratitude and creativity. 5. Gratitude JournalProvide children with a journal where they can write or draw about things they’re thankful for each day. This practice promotes regular reflection and helps children develop a habit of gratitude. 🗣️ Daily Gratitude Practices 1. Model GratitudeChildren learn by observing adults. Regularly express your own gratitude aloud, whether it’s thanking a colleague or appreciating a beautiful sunset. Your actions set a powerful example. 2. Gratitude ConversationsIncorporate gratitude into daily conversations. Ask children questions like, “What made you smile today?” or “Who helped you this week?” These prompts encourage children to reflect on positive experiences. 3. Bedtime Gratitude RitualBefore bed, share one thing each family member is thankful for. This practice not only fosters gratitude but also strengthens family bonds. 🌍 Expanding Gratitude Beyond the Home 1. Acts of KindnessEncourage children to perform simple acts of kindness, such as helping a neighbor or donating toys. These actions reinforce the value of gratitude and empathy. 2. Community InvolvementParticipate in community service projects as a family. Engaging in activities that benefit others helps children understand the impact of gratitude on a larger scale. 3. Cultural AppreciationExpose children to diverse cultures and traditions. Learning about different ways people express gratitude can broaden their perspectives and deepen their appreciation. 📚 Resources to Support Gratitude Learning Sources:

October 9, 2025
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