Child of the Universe Montessori Magazine July 2018 Issue 45

*FREE DIGITAL MAG *ISSUE 45 *JULY 2018

ABOUT US www.childoftheuniverse.co.za PUBLISHER 2Luni Media EDITOR/OWNER Linda Navon 071 346 8138 linda@childoftheuniverse.co.za

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CHILD OF THE UNIVERSE MONTESSORI MAG We strongly support and believe in the Maria Montessori Method of teaching and learning, and would like to see as many children as possible be fortunate enough to experience Montessori as a lifestyle.

We also believe in the ‘FIRST DO NO HARM’ principle and therefore select our content and advertisers accordingly.

We cover topics around Montessori teaching, learning, lifestyle – in the classroom and at home – and much more. We always include links to our articles and encourage you to follow them for loads of insightful Montessori literature. We include a mix of topics relevant to family life, health and well-being.

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DISCLAIMER The views expressed in this publication are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the editor, advertisers or endorsers. While every effort has been made to ensure that the contents of this publication are both accurate and truthful, the publisher and editor accept no responsibility for inaccurate or misleading information that may be contained herein.

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Conscious Life Magazine

ADVERTORIAL

Private Health Care for Emergency Treatment As South African’s, one of the biggest risks we face every day while commuting to and from work is vehicle accidents.

What many people don’t know is that in 2015, the Road Traffic Management Corporation reported 832 431 road traffic crashes. 6% of these incidents were considered to be major or fatal accidents.

This amounted to 278 620 people injured on our roads in that year. That’s almost 800 people per day!

According to report published by the Institute of Race Relations (IRR), out of South Africa’s population of over 54 million people, only 17.4% are covered by a South African medical scheme. This means that only 9.5 million South Africans have access to private medical care while more than 44 million don’t.

In the report, it was stated that “Private quality healthcare roughly refers to easy access to general practitioners (GPs), dentists and medication. Having access to adequate medical cover can drastically improve the quality of life and life expectancy of a person. The leading barrier to private healthcare in South Africa continues to be the price. The millions of South Africans living without medical cover put increasing pressure on the public health system.”

The same principle applies to injuries sustained from road accidents in S.A. While it’s generally not something that we like to dwell on, the truth of the matter is that being treated in a private hospital following a motor vehicle accident has significant benefits which could save your life. Patients admitted following a motor vehicle accident have little or no delay in being treated and benefit from personalised care and treatment. Better facilities also generally mean that the recovery time is quicker.

Conscious Life Magazine

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When our members join us they receive an accidentANGELS™ MasterCard® which is activated on notification of an incident.

Members are given access of up to R10 000 for out-patient care, which is treatment in the emergency room at the private hospital.

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If the car accident injuries are serious enough to require in-patient admittance into hospital, accidentANGELS™ provide up to R200 000 paid to the hospital for treatment. A R1 million benefit is also available at a main member fee of R259 per month.

Members are also protected if they are travelling in public transport or even while walking as pedestrians on our roads. This means that the accidentANGELS™ benefit is not limited to people that drive a car.

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Thanks to accidentANGELS™, I was able to go to a private hospital straight away.

It was 8am and I was driving to work on a road close to my home. Suddenly, another driver who had skipped a stop street crashed into the side of my car. I injured my right shoulder quite badly and I had a concussion, but I was still able to phone for an ambulance.

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accidentANGELS™ also assist our members with the submission and management of any valid claims against the Road Accident Fund (RAF). Claims made against the RAF can take as long as 3 years to be resolved, so this service ensures that the claim receives the right focus and attention. Funds that are paid out are paid back to the member, less any medical expenses incurred as a result of the accident. There are no fees deducted from the proceeds before funds are paid to our member.

Conscious Life Magazine

by Elizabeth Vice You know your kids are Montessori when your oldest will be graduating from the college of his dreams at 20 years old. His college offers a four-year bachelor’s degree in timber framing and a full progress of traditional historic preservation major class. And he’s at the top of his trades classes because of his work ethic. Head and Hands: check.

You know your kids are Montessori when they both graduate high school (at 17 and 15 years old) and have their sophomore year completed though a community college at the same time. (We are very grateful to SC Whitmore School for being a mastery based, on-line high school and willing to let our children take the majority of their core classes through the local community college with AP credit.)

You know your kids are Montessori when your 18-year-old is heading to “uni” in England because he wants to immerse himself in a different culture and thinks England is a good launching point for visits to Europe “and then the rest of the world.”

And, yes, he was obsessed with maps at five years of age.

You know your kids are Montessori when your child decides that he can’t buy a pair of shoes because the suede will get messed up and he would be bothered by the lack of order. (This is not the other child. He loves his suede shoes, and they are blue.)

You know your kids are Montessori when the oldest isn’t particularly adept at bubble tests or algebra but still get the “Math” award from their high school because he aced the state algebra test after being out of the algebra class for six months. (Mom and Dad were blown away because we both are horrid at math.)

You know your kids are Montessori when a friend explains that you encourage your teenaged students to carry their knives to school.

You know your kids are Montessori when an older one gets ready to tell the younger ones to pipe down. He closes his mouth midsentence because he sees that they have a moment of joyous discovery.

You know your kids are Montessori when one spends a half-hour watching the birds in the yard and one week researching all of them.

You know your kids are Montessori when they plaster polite smiles on their faces as older adults praise them on their ability to sit still through “such boring lectures that you all couldn’t possibly understand.” (They vented later.)

You know your kids are Montessori when during a medical crisis at work, one turns and walks to the nearest stairwell and once in it races up the stairs to locate additional help, never panicking. “I didn’t want to panic the patrons,” they said.

You know your kids are Montessori when trying on glasses takes twice as long because he feels that it is only right to polish the lenses in between each pair he dons.

You know your kids are Montessori when given the usual Public School writing prompt and “just take 15 minutes to think it over” takes two days to research the history and figure out the geography of the creative writing assignment. He then starts writing.

You know your kids are Montessori when one begins to spontaneously organize the magazine shelves at the barber shop. “It just bothered me.”

You know your kids are Montessori when one comes barreling through the room saying, “I’ve got to hold the number in my head! I don’t want to re-do my problem – 84,84,84.” He was on the way to the bathroom and didn’t want to forget his partial product in cross multiplication.

You know your kids are Montessori when one comes in to say they might need a little bit of help, and you walk outside to see three kids on the roof and one in the tree. They are hatching a plan and want to vet the physics of it.

You know your kids are Montessori when they strike up a conversation with a lady at the meat counter and discuss their learning life, getting into a discussion of how Montessori is different and better for them.

(Mom was lurking behind the bread display.)

You know your kids are Montessori when they disassemble an old joy stick, figure out how it works, and then put it back together.

You know your kids are Montessori when you leave them home alone for an hour, and when you come back they have made Creme Anglaise and cleaned the kitchen.

You know your kids are Montessori when one of them takes a project to a college professor to find out if it is good enough to sit in on his college cellular biology class and the professor thinks it is.

You know your kids are Montessori when they grab their nature journal to sketch the “snot” coming from corals.

You know your kids are Montessori when you go to the County Fair and they won’t race from one ride across the midway to another ride. They methodically move down the row riding rides (even again and again) until they have “completed” that ride.

You know your kids are Montessori when you kids can’t do just a “written science project”. It has to involve history, science, geography, linguistics, and art.

You know your kids are Montessori when your son insists his birthday cupcakes go to “Mike, the Glass Guy” and his staff. Then when he is offering them round, he insists that the customers be included, too. Grace and courtesy are still ingrained in an 11 year old. Yes!

You know your kids are Montessori when an afternoon at the park playing involves no play equipment or the ball field but a mound of sand, a mound of dirt, several turtle eggs, a garter snake, and a toad.

You know your kids are Montessori when they finish the roof sweeping job and announce their work is done, but that they are not done working. What was their new work? Laying on the roof to watch the tree branches and the clouds. They stayed there 15 minutes or more.

You know your kids are Montessori when they spend seven minutes making order from the chaos of the name tag table after church. (No we were not talking with anyone. We were waiting.)

You know your kids are Montessori when they spend three hours working on a fused glass project to say: “I don’t want to go to lunch. I have not completed my work.”

You know your kids are Montessori when they take an old (yet clean) oval bath mat and make a cell work out of it. They’ve been calling it the “Pink Amoeba” and pretending it is encircling them to digest their legs.

Elizabeth Vice is certified as a Directress in Casa and Elementary. She also holds a 3 to 6 certification in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Her sons attended Montessori schools from Casa onward through age 13 and 11 when they began to be home schooled with a Montessori cooperative and began online high school at the ages of 15 and 14. They are now 20 and 18. Elizabeth consults with parents and tutors students as well as writes specialized curricula for schools and churches of all stripes. She spends her spare time weaving.

Keep Calm and ‘Carrot On’ There’s a lot that can go on in the kitchen when a recipe is made. Working on just one ingredient with your child gives them the chance to learn about just one small piece of the puzzle, without overwhelming them.

If chopped carrots are a required part of your evening dish or family soup tonight, why not invite your child to participate with the food prep? It will engage their sensorial learning and promote independence, as well as allow them to feel like a valued household contributor.

Since a blade will be involved, it’s helpful for you to create a designated workspace where your child can clearly and comfortably handle the materials. By modeling how to use the blade safely, with two hands securely gripping the handle, you set an important standard at the outset.

If carrots are a critical part of the dish you’re making, be aware that you may end up sacrificing a few pieces due to the possibility of unexpected snacking! Remember not to worry and to allow them to enjoy the experience; participation is the goal here!

The key is to simply set up the activity ahead of time and prepare your child for the experience. Find out how this everyday task easily becomes a productive and joyful growth opportunity.

by Jeanne Marie Paynel: Voila Montessori

SAMA MEMBER SCHOOLS & TRAINING CENTRES IN SOUTH AFRICA Eastern & Southern Cape KwaZulu Natal Limpopo Mpumalanga Namibia North Gauteng (PTA) South Gauteng (JHB) Western Cape Swaziland Seychelles SAMA TRAINING INSTITUTIONS

By Laura Pinger and Lisa Flook

Walking to class one day, one of us (Laura) saw a young student crying and waiting for his mother to arrive—he had split his chin while playing. When Laura got to class, the other students were very upset and afraid for their friend, full of questions about what would happen to him. Laura decided to ask the class how they could help him.

“Caring practice!” exclaimed one of the children—and they all sat in a circle offering support and well wishes. The children immediately calmed and they continued with their lesson.

This is what’s possible when kids learn to be kind at school.

Various mindfulness programs have been developed for adults, but we and our colleagues at the Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, wanted to develop a curriculum for kids. Every school teaches math and reading, but what about mindfulness and kindness?

We ended up bringing a 12-week curriculum to six schools in the Midwest. Twice a week for 20 minutes, pre-kindergarten kids were introduced to stories and practices for paying attention, regulating their emotions, and cultivating kindness. It’s just the beginning, but the initial results of our research, coauthored with Professor Richard Davidson and graduate research assistant Simon Goldberg, suggest that this program can improve kids’ grades, cognitive abilities, and relationship skills.

Why teach kindness to kids?

The school environment can be very stressful; in addition to any issues they bring from home, many students struggle to make friends and perform well in class. Being excluded, ignored, or teased is very painful for a young child, and we thought it could be impactful to teach empathy and compassion.

When other kids are suffering—like that boy who split his chin—can we understand how they might be feeling? Kindness bridges those gaps and helps build a sense of connection among the students, the teachers, and even the parents. Learning to strengthen their attention and regulate their emotions are foundational skills that could benefit kids in school and throughout their whole lives.

On top of that, having classrooms full of mindful, kind kids completely changes the school environment. Imagine entire schools—entire districts—where kindness is emphasized. That would be truly powerful. Teaching kindness is a way to bubble up widespread transformation that doesn’t require big policy changes or extensive administrative involvement.

Running and studying a Kindness Curriculum If you had visited one of our classrooms during the 12-week program, you might have seen a poster on the wall called “Kindness Garden.” When kids performed an act of kindness or benefitted from one, they added a sticker to the poster. The idea is that friendship is like a seed—it needs to be nurtured and taken care of in order to grow. Through that exercise, we got students talking about how kindness feels good and how we might grow more friendship in the classroom.

Another day, you might have found students in pairs holding Peace Wands, one with a heart and one with a star. The child with the heart wand speaks (“from the heart”); the other child (the “star listener”) listens and then repeats back what was said. When there was a conflict between students, they used the wands to support the process of paying attention, expressing their feelings, and building empathy.

Our Kindness Curriculum combines creative activities like these, as well as books, songs, and movement, to communicate concepts in a way that is understandable to four year olds. Our instructors taught the curriculum with active participation by classroom teachers.

The Kindness Curriculum is designed around the ABCs — or, more specifically, A to G: 

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Attention. Students learn that what they focus on is a choice. Through focusing attention on a variety of external sensations (the sound of a bell, the look of a stone) and internal sensations (feeling happy or sad), children learn they can direct their attention and maintain focus.

Breath and Body. Students learn to use their breath to cultivate some peace and quiet. Instead of listening to a meditation, we played a song from Betsy Rose’s CD Calm Down Boogie, “Breathing In, Breathing Out,” while the children rested on their backs with a beanie baby on their belly. The beanie provided an object to “rock to sleep” with the natural in- and out-breath, while the breathing calmed the body.

Caring. Here, we teach kids to think about how others are feeling and cultivate kindness. We read the book Sumi’s First Day of School Ever, the story of a foreign student who struggles with English, and brainstorm ways to help a student like Sumi—as simple as offering a smile.

Depending on other people. We emphasize that everyone supports and is supported by others through the book Somewhere Today, which describes acts of kindness that are going on in the world right now.

Students learn to see themselves as helpers and begin to develop gratitude for the kindness of others.

Emotions. What do emotions feel like and look like? How can you tell what you’re feeling? We play a game where the teacher and students take turns pretending to be angry, sad, happy, or surprised, guessing which emotion was expressed, and talking about what that emotion feels like in the body.



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Forgiveness. Young kids can be particularly hard on themselves—and others—and we teach them that everyone makes mistakes. A book called Down the Road tells the story of a girl who breaks the eggs she bought for her parents, but they forgive her.

Gratitude. We want kids to recognize the kind acts that other people do for them, so we have them pretend to be various community workers like bus drivers and firefighters. Then, they talk about being thankful to those people for how they help us.

Sixty-eight students participated in the research, with about half going through the Kindness Curriculum and the other half measured as a comparison. To investigate the impact of the curriculum, we tested children before and after the training period.

The results of our study were promising. Students who went through the curriculum showed more empathy and kindness and a greater ability to calm themselves down when they felt upset, according to teachers’ ratings. In an exercise with stickers, they consistently shared about half of them, whereas students who hadn’t gone through the curriculum shared less over time.

They earned higher grades at the end of the year in certain areas (notably for social and emotional development), and they showed improvement in the ability to think flexibly and delay gratification, skills that have been linked to health and success later in life.

This was a small study, and we’d love to see deeper investigations into our Kindness Curriculum in the future. For example, what happens over a longer time if we support students’ practice throughout the year and into the next school year and beyond? If parents got involved in the curriculum, they could provide powerful support as well.

“Students who went through the curriculum showed more empathy and kindness and a greater ability to calm themselves down when they felt upset, according to teachers’ ratings.”

“Kindfulness” in daily life Mindfulness and kindness go hand in hand, so much so that the phrase “kindfulness” accidentally (but aptly) came out in one of our conversations and has stuck with us. While we administered a specific curriculum for the purposes of our study, any teacher or parent can bring the principles behind it to bear on their interactions with children.

The first key is simply to model mindfulness and kindness. For example, what quality of attention do we bring when we interact with our kids? Do we give them our full attention—eye contact, kneeling down to speak with them, asking questions—or are we distracted? Kids are extraordinarily observant, and they pick up on whether we are paying attention to them. By modeling behavior, and through our interactions, we show them what it’s like to be seen and heard and to be compassionate with others.

Another simple activity is to relax and feel the natural breath for a few moments during the day.

Kids need to be active and run around, of course, but they can also benefit from cultivating a bit of stillness. For example, when Laura enters the classroom, she or one of her students rings a bell, which signals students to listen until the sound ends and then feel five in- and out-breaths together. This practice settles students and gathers their attention so they are more ready to learn.

We can also help kids reflect on their emotions, which sometimes feel overwhelming, and change their relationship to them. After a child calms down, we can sit with them and reflect on that feeling. Which part of the body felt angry, happy, or upset? All emotions are natural, so kids shouldn’t feel bad about experiencing them; we can teach them to cultivate a kinder attitude.

For example, a parent might say, “When I feel sad or angry, it doesn’t feel good in my body. But all people have feelings. Feelings help us learn about ourselves and others. I can be kind to myself no matter what feelings come. I can get better and better at learning from my feelings.”

And, by the way, practices like these are equally useful for parents and teachers, who are struggling with stressful workplaces or busy classrooms. For teachers, brief practices with students many times during the school day allow everyone to pause and be fully present to themselves, each other, and what is happening, whether it is pleasant or unpleasant. For parents, mindfulness and self-kindness training allow them to be more present with their spouse and children at home and with their coworkers at work.

Finally, to combine the concepts of mindfulness and kindness, we can teach caring practice to our kids. These phrases work well for children: May I be safe, may I be happy, may I be healthy, may I be peaceful.

When the boy split his chin, the other four-year-olds got together to do this practice: May you be safe, may you be happy, may you be healthy, may you be peaceful.

And these wishes can be extended further: To my entire classroom, my school, my neighborhood, my whole community…May we all be safe, may we all be happy, may we all be healthy, may we all be peaceful.

In the midst of their distress, the children found comfort and support for themselves and their friend rather than feeling upset and worried. They later shared with him that they had offered him these wishes. It’s these small changes, spread across classrooms, that could make schools more kind—and educate a new generation of more compassionate and connected citizens.

This article originally appeared on Greater Good, the online magazine of UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, one of Mindful’s partners.

Laura Pinger and Lisa Flook share their lessons from creating a "kindness curriculum" for young students.

Laura Pinger completed her M.S. in communication sciences and disorders and is currently a Senior Outreach Specialist at the Center for Healthy Minds (CHM) at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, at the Waisman Center. She develops and teaches research-related mindfulness-based curricula for educators, students, and parents.

Lisa Flook completed her PhD in clinical psychology at UCLA and is currently a scientist at CHM. CHM has been investigating the impact of mindfulness-based practices in educational settings with students, teachers, and parents.

So many kids today are living in 'virtual reality' and sedentary lifestyles.

Yoga is an option for very young children that connects them with all living things, fosters a calmer, more emotionally stable, higher selfesteemed and more focused child and adolescent.

An alternative that empowers children, rather than numbing them. Yoga is gentle, centering, calming, and can be practiced at an early age and last a lifetime. Yoga provides a gentle physical activity that helps kids to regulate their emotions and manage stress by being more centered and calm. Yoga is especially important during a child’s formative years of development. Yoga contributes to a healthier body and greater self-esteem.

We love it when we find a great source of interesting and helpful links, and we want to be one of ‘those places.’ We also think it’s helpful when you can see a brief description of WHY you should make the effort to ‘click-through.’ We’re hoping you agree!

Why we choose Natural Materials over Plastic

I was at a baby shower recently with my mom when another woman showed up with her grandkids and a small plastic children's computer game. We began talking and she asked if we had a similar toy. Before I could answer, my mom replied "No! She's a weirdo that won't let her kids have plastic!"

Now, I don't mean to throw my mother under the bus for an off hand comment, but I think this is a common misconception for people looking at the Montessori community. So, let me explain why we choose natural materials over plastic and when we don't.

First, I want to say, my children have plenty of plastic toys and materials. There are times, even, when I prefer plastic. One example, is animal figurines. I strive to give my children realistic representations and plastic is simply the best way to do this. Magnatiles and Legos also make my plastic list!

But, in many situations, I do strive to provide natural materials -- like wood, metal, fabric or glass - when I can.

What's the deal with no plastic?

I have a few reasons that I prefer natural materials over man-made ones. First, there is the environmental factor. There's BPA concerns and chemical concerns and its effect on our health and the environment. While, this is a concern, it's not a huge worry for me but I am aware of this issue. Maybe it should be something I worry more about, but it's not something I've done a lot of research into.

More important to me are the strictly Montessori concerns. First, I as a Montessori parent, I want to create an environment that is as beautiful as possible. I want to create spaces that show my children that they are valued. Montessori believes that children not only deserve beautiful spaces, they excel in them. Natural products are an important part in making our space beautiful.

Their understated nature and beauty provide something to an environment that cheaper plastic alternatives don't. Some plastic toys can provide the same effect, but they are harder to find.

Natural materials teach natural consequences. If you drop a plastic cup, you drop a plastic cup.

There's no need to be careful. No need to learn to respect the material. However, if you drop a glass cup, you get a very different story. Watching a glass break, or a toy even, teaches a child to be more exact and careful. But, it also teaches children to respect their materials and environment. To take ownership over it and to care for it.

Natural materials connect a person to nature. My children live in the city. Our natural interactions are more limited than others. By touching a wooden toy, they get to feel the warmth of the wood. They feel the grain, they feel the weight. It's just a connection that cold, hard plastic cannot provide.

Also, when I hand a child a beautiful natural material, I hand my child my respect and trust. I am showing them they are important enough to give them something real.

I'm not giving them some baby-proofed version of a real tool. I'm teaching them to use a real one. I'm trusting in their abilities, I'm respecting their whole self as a very capable person.

I'm also giving them the opportunity to make a mistake. To learn from that mistake. When a plate shatters, there is a lot to be learned. When a toy breaks, there is a lot to be learned. I'm giving them the space and the trust to handle disappointment, mistake and error.

So, that's why we limit plastic in our home. If that makes me weird, I'm cool with that!

What is your plastic policy? Have you seen any difference with your child's interest in non-plastic verses plastic materials?

What to expect when you’re expecting: 9 tips for 9 months For some people, being pregnant may sound like a scary prospect – having the responsibility of creating a new human being and keeping them as healthy as possible. The truth is, being pregnant is not scary at all. It is a beautiful, natural process that every woman should treasure.

However, even though pregnancy is natural, you still need to look after yourself, and your unborn child, which is why we have compiled a list of healthy things to do during your pregnancy – one tip for every month you are preggers.

1. Eat healthy Eating well during your pregnancy can help you to have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. Try not to miss any meals throughout the day, especially breakfast, as this is probably the most important meal of the day. Try to avoid foods that are uncooked such as raw fish and meat and even soft cheeses and start increasing your daily intake of fruits and vegetables and other healthy snacks. You should also decrease how much caffeine you eat and drink per day so less coffee and chocolate and more water!

2. Carry on exercising Don’t believe the old myths that exercising while you are pregnant can be harmful for your baby. Now we aren’t saying that you can do an intense weights session or cardio class, however exercising is one of the best ways to keep yourself healthy. There are so many classes that you can take that are specially for pregnant women such as preggibellies, preggy Pilates and preggy yoga. And if you don’t feel like partaking in one of these, a simple 15-20 minute walk, or even a quick swim when it’s hot, will do.

3. Read as much as possible and stay informed If you are pregnant for the first time, our best advice to you is to read, read, read. Not only are there hundreds of books out there, but there are many pregnancy blogs that you can read online as well. The more information you have, the less scary things may seem. Don’t forget though that your pregnancy is important to others too so don’t be afraid to ask other mothers, including your own, as many questions as you need to.

4. Take your vitamins Take a prenatal vitamin every day that contains iron and folic acid. Iron helps keep your blood healthy while folic acid helps prevent any birth defects. Speak to your doctor and pharmacist to find out which vitamin is best for you.

5. Stick to your doctor appointments There is a reason that gynecologists want to see their pregnant patients at numerous stages during their pregnancies so make sure you don’t miss them. Each appointment checks the progress of the pregnancy, making sure that both mom and baby are healthy and well. By not sticking to your appointments, you may run the risk of missing something important. And above all, don’t you want to watch the progress of your new addition?

6. Relax The best thing you can do for both yourself and your baby is to relax as much as possible. We know that it is not always easy, especially if you have a full time job and a family to look after, but did you know that stress releases toxins into your body, which may become harmful to your baby – you don’t want to risk going into early labour because you forgot to relax.

Meditation and yoga can help to calm your mind and keep you stress-free.

7. Speak to your partner Don’t forget that even though you are the one carrying a baby, there were two people involved in getting you pregnant. It is important for you to share with your partner what you are going through and how you are feeling because they are left in the dark. They don’t know what it feels like when you feel your baby kick for the first time or why you are so uncomfortable near the end of your pregnancy. Communication is key as during this time, you and your partner will start forming a new type of bond.

8. Cut out unhealthy habits Smoking, drinking alcohol, using drugs and taking certain medication while pregnant is without a doubt one of the most harmful things you can do to your unborn child. Not only can the toxins found in alcohol, over-the-counter medications, drugs and tobacco can cause birth defects for your child, but if you take drugs or drink while pregnant, there is a likelihood that your child will be born with an addiction.

9. Create memories Finally, one of the most special things you can do during your pregnancy is to create memories. Keep a journal and jot down all your feelings throughout the nine months – this is something that you can keep forever and maybe even one-day share with your child.

You can also record your progress by taking monthly pictures of your growing belly, which you can stick into your journal.

These Are the Chores Your Child Should Be Doing This Year Based on Their Age

by ALESSIA SANTORO

If you're a mama who feels like she's doing literally everything around the house, including picking up after your very capable kids, we know how you feel. It makes some parents feel guilty to give their children mundane responsibilities like taking out the garbage, and some moms follow the "if I do it, it'll get done faster and better" mode of thinking. But the truth is, our children can — and probably should — handle more than we think.

We're not suggesting you turn your child into a regular Mrs. Doubtfire, but there are a bunch of tasks around the house that can be completed by children based on their age. If you're looking to set your kiddos up with a chore chart to help them learn about hard work and having responsibilities, there's something every child can help with.

Ages 2-3 At this age, chores are a kind of code for being held accountable in the smallest way. While your kiddo is young, it's important to not do every little thing for them so that getting them to help out when they're older isn't a losing battle. Here are some things they can help you or their older siblings with: • • • • •

Put laundry in the hamper/washer.

Put their toys away.

Put books on the bookshelf.

Help feed the family pet.

Throw diapers into trash.

Ages 4-7

Ages 8-10

As your child gets a bit older, their ability to do a few small chores independently increases, especially if they were helping out with little things before their fourth birthday. As they make their way through preschool and into grade school, here are a few things they can manage: • Help set the table.

• Make their bed.

• Water plants/the garden.

• Help put away groceries.

• Put non-breakable (and not sharp) items in the dishwasher.

• Switch laundry from the washer to dryer.

• Help clear the dinner table.

• Pack up their backpack for school.

• Sort silverware.

• Sweep floors.

Once they reach the higher grades of elementary school, their chore list will start snowballing from the previous age lists. Things they helped with before can likely be done by them independently now, and responsibilities can extend from things that affect just them to things that help the entire family (like setting the table for dinner). Here are a few things you can get on your 8- to 10-year-old's chore chart: • Clean their room.

• Set the table.

• Vacuum.

• Feed the family pet.

• Help wash the car.

• Take out the trash.

• Rake leaves.

• Help cook dinner or pack lunches.

• Empty/load the dishwasher.

• Put away groceries.

• Bring in the mail.

• Fold laundry and put it away.

Age 11 and Older

By the time your child hits middle school, they're going to be asking for more and more independence in terms of social life and schoolwork, so they should be able to handle doing larger-scale chores by themselves. All kids develop differently, but as your child ages from 11 and on, chores like doing laundry and packing lunches are things your tween and teen should be capable of in time. Here some other chores to consider for kids 11 and above:

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Clean their bathroom.

Help clean the kitchen.

Wash dishes.

Clear the table and put dishes in the dishwasher.

Mow the lawn.

Shovel snow.

Do laundry.

Pack their school lunch.

Garden.

Wash the car.

Walk the dog.

Bake/cook with limited supervision.

Watch younger siblings for short periods of time (depending on state law).

NEW AGE CHILDREN

INDIGOS AND CRYSTALS

Does your child get bored easily? Are they difficult to calm or settle? Do they need constant stimulation? If your answers to these questions are yes then your child may be an Indigo Child.

Is your child highly sensitive, yet easy going? Do they display unprecedented levels of kindness and compassion to the world?

Did they speak late in life? Do they have a fascination for rocks and crystals and a deep love of animals? If your answers to these questions are yes then your child may be a Crystal Child.

INDIGOS Indigos have warrior like spirits and are often confused with having ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) or ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). They are actually highly intelligent, possess huge amounts of energy and are here to usher us into a new world of integrity.

They are called Indigos because they have lots of indigo blue in their auras. This is the colour of the 3rd eye chakra which regulates clairvoyance and the ability to see visions and energy.

Indigos collective purpose is to break old systems that no longer serve us and squash governmental, educational, and legal systems that lack integrity. In order to do this they need tempers and tenacity.

They can sense dishonesty, they know when they are being manipulated and are unable conform to dysfunctional situations at home. They cannot dissociate from their feelings and pretend that everything is okay – unless they are sedated or medicated. The truth is our children are super sensitive, highly intelligent beings and when they are medicated; they often lose their beautiful sensitivity, spiritual gifts and warrior like energy.

Indigo Children have been incarnating on the Earth for the last 100 years. The early Indigos were pioneers. After World War II, a significant number were born. They were the hippie generation in the 60’s and 70’s. In the 1970s a major wave of Indigos were born and from the 80’s to date they are coming through in very large numbers.

So we now have three generations of Indigos, some who are in their late twenties and early thirties and who are about to take their place as leaders in the world. Indigos continued to be born up to about the year 2000, with increasing abilities and degrees of technological and creative sophistication.

CRYSTALS Crystal Children began to appear on the planet from about 2000, although some date them slightly earlier. They have large hypnotizing eyes that look straight into your soul and they are wise beyond their years.

They are called Crystal children because their aura is opalescent with lots of rainbow colours in it. This generation of light workers are very telepathic and intuitive. These are extremely powerful children, whose main purpose is to take us to the next level in our evolution, and reveal to us our inner power and divinity.

They still have tantrums but are easily forgiving. They function as a group consciousness rather than as individuals, and they live by the" Law of One" or “Unity Consciousness”. They are a powerful force for love and peace on the planet. They are often judged by the medical world as having speech problems or are labelled as Autistic.

Both Crystal and Indigo Children are highly sensitive with psychic abilities and important life purposes. These are a generation of children unlike any other we have seen before.

They are here to heal our planet and it is their time. They are totally receptive to their environment and are affected by their surroundings in profound ways.

They are influenced by so many external factors such as; parental pressure, stress, peer pressure, school pressure, competitive sports, TV, videos, game consoles and other electronic devices, chemicals and pesticides in foods, bad eating and more. They should not be labelled or medicated.

Instead, we should be changing the way we do things; breaking old habits and finding ways to accommodate this new energy.

Parents and teachers need options; we need to make choices that work for us in our already busy lives. The choices we make as parents, teachers and caregivers will either assist them on their journey or make it more difficult.

AN EVOLUTIONARY PROCESS The exciting thing about these evolutionary developments, for ordinary people, is that the Indigo and Crystal beings bring these vibrations to the planet in order to share them with others.

By their very presence, they assist others to move into these new vibrations and open up to their full potential as well. The journey from Indigo to Crystal is available for us all if we so choose. We already have higher levels of consciousness and are much more aware of our intuitive thoughts and feelings. Communication is becoming faster, more honest and more centred in love and compassion. We are growing in our psychic abilities and are more fascinated by the para-normal and extra terrestrial life than ever before.

Adult Indigos are now making the transition to Crystal Consciousness; a spiritual and physical transformation is taking place that facilitates this awakening. Those who were born without these qualities are accessing higher levels of consciousness and intuition through a process of their own hard work and the discipline of following a spiritual path.

As we evolve from 3rd dimensional beings into 4th and 5th dimensional, we find that we no longer have time or need for things such as fear, worry and victim dramas. We prefer to spend our time creating the kind of reality in which we will be happy and content. More human beings are being drawn to spiritually based careers and relationships that don’t serve us are being challenged or broken down. These are exciting and challenging times.

As we evolve, it is becoming easier to access both the material and spiritual realms. There is no longer any need for intense meditation, since the access to the spirit realm is immediate and evident. It is vitally important as we make the transition into awareness to remember we are human and remain well grounded in the material dimensions. The whole point of the Transition is to bring "Heaven" to "Earth" and birth a culture of respect, peace, harmony and creativity.

WHAT CAN YOU DO – FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD – TO FACILITATE A POSITIVE TRANSITION? • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Eat mainly raw foods or vegetarian diet (consider the Feingold diet www.feingold.org ) Limit or cut out their sugar in take Limit TV and video games Teach them positive self talk Spend time being a kid with your kid Be hands on Find out what interests them Encourage lots of physical activity Encourage lots of time outdoors, close to nature Enroll them in yoga Use soothing music to self calm Sing with your child and use sound effects Teach visualisation techniques Find your child’s best alert time Teach them relaxation techniques Use touch to calm them Help them get organized Be prepared and take care of yourself Teach your child to focus Teach them breathing techniques Distract them or give instructions in attention grabbing ways Remove allergens, chemicals, flavourants and colorants from their diet Use natural and logical consequences Use time out or the thinking chair in positive ways.

Give them immediate feedback Use positive reinforcement Consider family therapy (Imago or Play Therapy) Give your child age appropriate responsibilities Give them real life tasks to establish trust and responsibility Give them choices.

Help your child develop socially Have your child teach or help a younger child Have a positive image of your child

Article with gratitude to Tamar Dakes Botha Founder of Beaming Kids

20 Things Teens Need to Know About How to be an Adult

Being a parent at any stage in life is not easy – especially when you’re parenting children who are on the cusp of adulthood.

It’s that ambiguous, awkward, and terrifying place where you’re not quite an adult, yet no longer a child. The time when life is both full of wonder and endless possibilities, and full of heartbreaking emotional truths.

I think back to that time – way back – when I had my whole life ahead of me. I couldn’t wait to be out on my own, making my own decisions and conquering the world. I thought I had it all figured out at age 20. How wrong I was.

Yes, I had my independence, but not nearly enough life experience to keep me from falling down more times than I really want to admit. I wish I knew what I know now – I could have had fewer bruises and scrapes to deal with.

It has taken me 40-some years, countless mistakes, and a whole lot of Band-Aids to figure out that most of life’s lessons are simply common sense. But when you’re a young 20-year-old girl looking at the big, wide, terrifying, and exciting world in front of you, common sense sometimes goes right out the window.

What I want for my daughter and son to know as they navigate their early adult life, is that life can be full of beautiful experiences. Life itself is neither positive or negative; it is what each of them will put into it and how they respond to situations that will make their lives seem good or bad.

My children need to learn that two people can be put through the same situation, yet each will respond in dramatically different ways. They need to realize they have the final choice in how they respond or react to what life throws at them. When they stumble (and they will), I want them to know it’s okay to pick themselves up, dust themselves off, and continue on their journey.

I want them to always remember these 20 bits of wisdom – and to call home every once in a while: 1 | Life is not fair.

Life is life. Even when you do everything right, sometimes things will not work out the way you planned. Someone else might get that promotion or opportunity you should have gotten. Some people are born into this world with everything at their disposal and some are born into unfortunate situations. It may not seem fair, but life rarely is. You don’t have the power to control everything that happens to you, but you have the power to control how you react to the unfairness in life.

2 | If you want to be an adult, then act like an adult and tackle adult responsibilities.

Adulthood has many freedoms, but with each freedom there is an equal responsibility to go along with it. In adulthood, you will have to do things you don’t want to and deal with things you don’t want to deal with. Learn to accept this and you will always have clean laundry and money to pay your bills.

3 | Growth doesn’t stop when you become an adult.

Being an adult and reaching your full potential means constantly learning and growing. Embrace learning something new every day, challenge yourself to go beyond what you think is possible and be willing to adopt new life philosophies. Twenty years from now, you will want to have grown rich with life experiences and wisdom.

4 | If you make a mess, learn to clean it up.

I’m not talking about household chores (but yes, you should clean up your messes and make your bed). I’m talking more about taking responsibility for your mistakes. We all make mistakes, but taking personal responsibility for them and making amends is what allow us to mature.

5 | Opportunities don’t fall in your lap, but they are always placed within your reach.

It’s up to you to take action and reach out to grab on to every opportunity.

6 | There is a difference between “can’t” and “won’t.”

Can you or won’t you? Won’t means you are choosing not to do something you can or will be able to learn eventually. Ask yourself – and be honest – is it something you simply don’t want to do, or is it something you truly do not have the skills to accomplish? Change the “won’t” to “will” and you’ll see that you actually can.

7 | Successful people will do things that unsuccessful people will not.

If you’re not willing to do the work or do what is necessary to be successful, then you never will be. If something is truly worth having (that degree, a new business, a healthier body, etc.) and you want it bad enough, no excuse or road block will keep you from reaching your goal.

8 | Allow yourself to have experiences. Try everything and don’t be afraid to fail.

If you’ve never tried something, how do you know you don’t like it? Some of life’s greatest moments will happen when you say “yes.” Fear of failure will keep you from acting on opportunities that could lead to success. Even if you fail, you will learn valuable life lessons that will give you the experience to succeed at something else.

9 | What you focus on, you will attract.

You have the power to attract what you want. If you want a positive life, focus on everything that is positive.

10 | Be that someone.

Don’t wait around for someone else to do something, take action and be that someone.

11 | Do something kind every day.

When you are kind to others, kindness is returned to your life.

12 | Be grateful.

There is always something to be grateful for. The more grateful you are about what you have, the less you will need to actually be happy.

13 | Everyone has a bad moment or day, never let any situation define your outlook on life.

Remember everyone has good moments too.

14 | It’s okay to cry.

Even the strongest people will reach their breaking point and need to let it all out. Allow yourself to experience this moment and know that it is okay to cry and to feel pain. When the moment passes, remind yourself that with any storm, there is always an end and the skies will turn sunny again.

15 | Never be ashamed of your past or a mistake you’ve made.

You can’t change the past, but you must learn from it. Don’t let shame rule your life, nearly everyone has done something they wish they could change.

16 | Learn to forgive yourself and others.

We all make mistakes and no one is perfect. Forgiving is not forgetting. Forgiving gives you the freedom to let go of negative feelings so that you can move forward with a healthy mind.

17 | Take care of yourself.

You are only given one body, take care of it.

Wear sunscreen, eat healthy, exercise, get regular check-ups, allow yourself a down day, meditate. When you are middle-aged or beyond, you will be thankful.

18 | Be passionate about something.

Have a hobby; embrace life. Passion is the fuel for a positive life and makes you more interesting to others.

19 | Don’t compare yourself to anyone else.

Everyone has their own talents, abilities, and life to deal with. Focus on being a better you and not on how you “rank� with others. You will live a much happier life if you remember this.

20 | Most importantly, remember that you are worthy of love and have so much to offer the world.

Never allow anyone to treat you poorly or convince you that you do not matter. You were born for a purpose and to leave this earth better off than when you arrived.

Paulette is a writer, entrepreneur, wife, and mother of two nearly-grown children. Her writing is inspired by life, family, travel, and adventure and the art of trying to keep it all balanced without falling down.

The Morning I Discovered My Son and His Girlfriend in His Bedroom

Dropping her designer luggage onto the kitchen floor, she demanded my son show her around the house. This was my introduction to my teenage son’s first serious girlfriend. Later, she would seem surprised that her luggage was still on the kitchen floor where she had left it.

The depth of my patience was tested again at dinnertime after the young people in the house were instructed to come and peel vegetables. Entering the kitchen ahead of his siblings, my son tucked his too-long hair behind his left ear – a nervous tick he had developed in pre-school.

“Mum?” “Yes, son?”

“Er, Jasmine* is not used to helping out in the kitchen.”

“Excuse me, son?”

“It’s just that where she comes from they have a man who does all of that.”

Turning from the stove, I resisted the urge to grab my son’s own man-bits before demanding he go straighten out Little Miss Designer. However, more hair tugging and an unusual stillness in his frame stopped me. I remembered only too well the flailing impotence of my own husband when caught between me and his ‘difficult’ mother. I didn’t want that no-win misery for my son. I took a deep breath.

“Okay, could the two of you at least set the dining room table? You can show her the ropes if tablecloths and napkins are also beyond her comprehension.”

“Yes, mum. Thank you, mum.”

The watery relief in his eyes made me thankful I had not compromised him in front of his special guest.

“Okay, run along and tell your brother and sisters to come and help out in here.”

Dinnertime, when it came, was a pleasant enough affair, and everyone seemed to have calmed themselves down, including me. The children had at last tired of teasing their brother and, to her credit, Little Miss Designer also seemed less haughty. She joined in with the loud and excited dinner banter which, as I understood it, is not something she was used to as an only child of Japanese diplomats.

I looked across the table at my young people and the newly minted couple and smiled. It seemed like ages since I had little else to worry about than the latest boy band nonsense, or hope my parents could not see me knocking knees under the table with a shiny new love interest. Although in this case, ‘parent’ singular since the children’s father would not be back from his business trip until a week Friday.

Although I am a stickler for black and white parenting and a child’s due regard for the rules of the house, I was glad that things had improved since my inauspicious start with our weekend guest. While it was unlikely that my son would end up marrying this girl, I did have sudden insight into the proverbial mother-in-law triangle. Going forward, I would have to accept, at least to myself, that no-one would ever be entirely good enough for my child.

In was in this spirit of cooperation that all occupants of the house eventually said goodnight to each other and bunkered down for the night.

Sunday morning, after a loud knock on his door, which was apparently not loud enough to rouse him, I entered my son’s room. Five-minutes of making busy, picking up clothes and fussing with curtains was usually enough time to see my teenager safely back on planet earth.

“Morning, mum.”

“Good morning, my dear, sleep well?”

“Yes, except Jasmine didn’t sleep too good.”

“Oh, I’m sorry to hear that. Where is she now?”

“Here.”

“Here, where?”

“Here, mum,” my son said, pulling back the covers to reveal his sleeping girlfriend.

“Oh. Um. Okay. Er…yes,” I said, grasping for a script I did not have.

With that insightful and stupefied response, I left my son’s room, went downstairs trance-like, and wondered what the hell had just happened.

Not that this was my first experience with blind, parental panic. When he was little, my toddler-son had thrown a ferocious tantrum in the frozen food aisle of the supermarket. That day I discovered it was possible for even this old-school, black-and-white, take-no-prisoners parent to be immobilized in parenting terror, as shoppers tut-tutted their way around my outof-control child.

Despite the pressure to remove my son from the supermarket, I took a deep breath and decided to leave him screaming in the aisle because I knew (prayed) that without me as his audience, he would soon come to his senses. It worked and the balance of power was restored. I didn’t know then how important this episode would later be along our parenting journey together.

In this moment, I yearned for the easy problem of supermarket tantrums.

Spooning teaspoon after teaspoon of coffee into a mug I don’t remember taking from the shelf, I felt helpless and powerless, with my metaphorical pants around my ankles.

Then came the anger. Anger at my husband for never being around for the difficult parenting dilemmas, angry at my son for putting me in this damned position, and angry at myself for eschewing the common sense which had always guided me through the stickiest days of motherhood. Abandoning an overflowing coffee cup, I grabbed that common sense by the neck and dragged it upstairs to confront my son. This time I did not knock.

“YOU, in my room, now! Miss, please get dressed and join us.”

Seated at my desk in the master bedroom, I finally felt that I was on familiar territory again and realized I didn’t want to give these young people a severe reprimand as much as I wanted them to truly understand the ramifications of their actions.

“Mum, I don’t know what you think has gone on, but nothing happened.”

“That is not the point, son. You know the rules of this house and you should have imparted them to your friend here.”

“Further,” I continued, ignoring my son’s attempt at interruption and his girlfriend’s affected sheepish muteness, “as the eldest you are the one to set the example for your siblings.”

“But, Mum…” “And you, young lady, understand that when you are under my roof I am your temporary caretaker and proxy parent. What on earth would your parents have thought had they walked in on the two of you this morning?”

“I apologize, ma’am. It won’t happen again.”

My radar for “empty platitudes to placate an angry parent” is pretty sharp, and I sensed that these two young people were genuinely remorseful.

“Look, kids, it’s not that I wasn’t young too, but I will tell you something my mother told me which has served me well, and that is ‘everyone has an unguarded moment.’”

Letting that statement sink in for a few seconds more, I elaborated and explained to them that even the best of intentions can get lost when emotions and physical urges take over. A chaste goodnight kiss might be possible for an older married couple, but young blood runs hot and can lead to that unguarded moment when caution (and pants) are thrown to the wind.

The ensuing laughter broke some of the tension, and it was in this frame of mind that the three of us had an honest conversation that morning after which the young couple prepared breakfast for the rest of the household.

Invariably when I tell this story, people ask, “Okay, but what happens when you are not around?”

When I’m not around, my children will have to rely on their inner compass and their training.

They may break the rules, but they will do so knowing how their mother feels about their behavior. I can at least give them that when I am not physically there to guide them. Decisionmaking and the consequences of those decisions is, after all, part of growing up.

Some parents may be tempted to run screaming down the path of least resistance for that illusive ‘quiet life’ when raising children. I was certainly tempted that Sunday morning. And some parents may have a more relaxed view on this issue, but no one should be railroaded or chose a position based on fear of their teenagers.

We can all admit to walking on eggshells around our teenagers at some point, especially around the subject of sex in our home. I had to gird my loins to restore the rightful balance of power to help the kids through one of life’s firsts. With rare exception, I have found that a home runs more smoothly, and teenagers feel safer, when the balance of power favors the most experienced members of the household – the parents and caregivers.

About Melinda Fargo Melinda Fargo is a successful blogger, newspaper columnist for the UK’s largest regional newspaper, Editor-in-chief of online magazine Post-40 Bloggers, an amateur photographer and public speaker. To pay the bills, she is a project management professional in public service. Melinda remains a widow, but will marry Denzel Washington after the sudden and unexpected disappearance of any of his wives.

Where to find her: Personal blog - What Mel Did

Conscious Life Magazine

Cuban Beans and Rice Cuban Beans and Rice Beans and rice can be a simple, satisfying meal for the entire family. In Cuba, beans are often cooked with a seasoning mixture called sofrito, made from garlic, onion, bell pepper, tomato, cumin, and oregano. Try combining this version of Cuban beans and rice with a crisp green salad of lettuce, cabbage, and tomatoes.

Add a little sweetness with fresh pineapple and banana. Serves 4 - 6.

Ingredients

Instructions

• • • • •

Make the beans

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Cuban Beans 3tbsp vegetable oil ½ red onion cut into ¼-inch pieces 4 garlic cloves minced 1 green or red bell pepper cut into ¼inch pieces 2 tomatoes cut into ½-inch pieces ¾tsp ground cumin ¾tsp dried oregano ¾tsp salt ¼tsp black pepper 3cans (15 oz. ea.) black beans rinsed and drained 1can (15 oz.) red beans rinsed and drained 1cup water 1whole bay leaf ¼cup fresh cilantro leaves chopped lime wedges(optional) Yellow Rice 1tbsp vegetable or olive oil ½tsp turmeric 1½cups long grain white rice 3cups water ½tsp salt

Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic and bell pepper and continue to cook, stirring often, for several minutes more. Add the tomatoes and cook until softened. Stir in the cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Add the beans, water, and bay leaf, stirring to combine.

Increase the heat to medium high and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 10 to 15 minutes. Just before serving, stir in the cilantro.

Make the rice In a saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the turmeric and rice and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add the water, increase heat to high and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 20 minutes, until all of the liquid has been absorbed.

Remove from heat. Do not stir the rice. Let the rice sit for at least 5 minutes before serving.

To serve Spoon the beans over the yellow rice and serve with a wedge of fresh lime. Serve pineapplebanana salad and green salad on the side.

Breadsticks Breadsticks It is believed that breadsticks were first made in medieval times. The Italian word for breadsticks is grissini. These crispy breadsticks are fun and easy to make. Makes 32 breadsticks.

Course Side Dish

Ingredients

Instructions

• • • • •

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. In a bowl, combine the water and yeast. Let sit for 2 minutes, until the yeast is dissolved. Add the olive oil, honey, rosemary or peppercorns, salt, and whole wheat flour, stirring well. Add the white flour, 1 cup at a time, stirring until a stiff dough forms. On a clean, lightly floured work surface knead the dough for 3 to 5 minutes, until smooth.

• • •

1¼cups warm water 2tsp baking yeast 2tbsp olive oil 1tbsp honey 1tsp dried rosemary or ½ tsp cracked black peppercorns 1cup whole wheat flour 2½ cups white flour Additional olive oil and kosher salt

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Form each piece into a circle about 3 inches in diameter.

Now divide each piece into 4 equal pieces. You will have 32 pieces in all. Roll each piece of dough into a cylinder about 8 inches long and place on baking sheet.

Lightly brush the breadsticks with olive oil and sprinkle with salt as desired. Bake the breadsticks for about 15 to 18 minutes, turning once during the baking, until lightly browned and almost crisp. Let the breadsticks cool before serving.

The Best Brains Require Good Nutrition

by Maren Schmidt Are our children getting the right kinds of food for maximum brain development and health? Most parents believe their children are getting adequate nutrition, but data shows otherwise.

Peeking into a few lunch boxes gives some indications and insights into the issue. Recent research is showing that a high level of highfructose sugar contributes to obesity and Type 2 diabetes in children.

High blood sugar levels affect the function of the hippocampus, the part of the brain that helps organize memory.

Children need a diet of complex carbohydrates versus a diet of sugar and foods that have a high glycemic index such as potatoes, white rice, white flour and white sugar. Data shows that 25 percent of children under the age of six eat French fried potatoes every day. One nutritionist recommends avoiding any food that’s white because those foods act like sugar to the brain.

Current research is showing that certain diseases and conditions have their roots in poor childhood nutrition. For example, the low intake of calcium rich foods–milk, cheese, broccoli, spinach and other green leafy vegetables–during the first 18 years of life may predispose women to osteoporosis.

Fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains take longer to digest but offer important nutrition that may not be found in the empty calories from the refined carbohydrates in soda and processed foods. For the young child under age six, certain foods should be avoided, and perhaps we all should avoid them. Two big two no-no’s seem to be sodas and foods that list sugar in the first five ingredients.

For sodas, their sugar content is too high, and the active ingredients in soda work against bone development. Soda drink consumption has risen to over 60 gallons per person annually in the United States. In a study of teenage boys, ages 13 to 18, about 60 percent reported drinking two sodas or more per day, with over 95 percent reporting that they drank soda regularly. In teenagers, over 25 percent of daily calories may be from sodas. The teenage habits begin before the age of six.

Water is the best liquid for our children to drink as effective brain growth and functioning is dependent on the brain being well hydrated, since the brain is over 90 percent water.

The second no-no: foods that list sugar as one of the first five ingredients include breakfast cereals, breakfast toaster pastries and more. High sugar consumption is linked to tooth decay, obesity, diabetes, heart disease and other ailments. Serve fresh fruit and vegetables and whole grains to satisfy a sweet tooth.

Make sure that a child’s diet provides adequate protein. Too much protein can be as bad as too little, but inadequate protein affects brain development and overall health.

Children from one to three years need about 1,300 calories per day with 16 grams of protein. Four- to six-year-olds need about 1,800 calories per day with 24 grams of protein. Seven- to ten-year-olds require around 2,000 calories with 28 grams of protein.

Common protein-rich foods include milk, soy milk, eggs, cheese, yogurt, peanut butter, lean meats, fish, poultry, beans, tofu, lentils, grains, nuts and seeds.

Another nutritionist recommends only shopping the perimeter of your grocery store, as all the nutritious and fresh food is there, and you won’t be tempted by all the fancy packaged processed food in the center aisles.

As my Granddad used to say, pay the grocer or pay the doctor. Yes, I’d much rather spend my money on blueberries than meeting my medical insurance deductible. It tastes so much better, and my brain loves it.

Conscious Life Magazine

TAP DOGS

Coming to Cape Town and Johannesburg in August 2018 – Presented by 947, CapeTalk and Channel 24

“TAP DOGS” SET TO ELECTRIFY THE WORLD WITH A 2018-19 INTERNATIONAL TOUR South Africa, 26th March 2018: Australia’s most successful theatrical export, Dein Perry’s TAP DOGS, is coming to South Africa for a strictly limited season starting in Cape Town on 22nd August at the Grand Arena, GrandWest followed by Johannesburg on 29th August at Montecasino.

Tickets available from www.bigconcerts.co.za and Computicket from 9am on Monday 26th March 2018.

The global dance sensation has appeared in over 330 cities, and 37 countries and 12 million people have now been dazzled by the energy and imagination of these unique performers.

Dein Perry’s TAP DOGS continues to take the world by storm and it set to tap, beat and dance its way through 2018 and 2019. Now it’s South Africa’s turn to experience the award-winning show that has been described as "Part theatre, part dance, part rock concert and part construction site!” BBC UK. Dein Perry’s TAP DOGS features high-energy dance, theatrical performance and live music performed by a cast of six dancers and two musicians who will bring the steel works to life in a fast paced, unstoppable spectacular that is the perfect show for anyone from 8-80.

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The winner of over 15 international awards including an Olivier Award (UK), an Obie Award (New York) and a Pegasus Award (Spoleto Festival in Italy), Dein Perry’s TAP DOGS is a 75-minute show combining the strength and power of workmen with the precision and talent of tap dancing.

Whether they are in water, upside-down or jumping through scaffolding, the “Tap Dogs” have been performing to the beat of their own drum since their world premiere at the Sydney Theatre Festival in January 1995. Success quickly followed with seasons in London, New York, Tokyo, Paris, Berlin and many other cities. A worldwide television audience of over 3.4 billion saw 1,000 Tap Dogs performing in the Opening Ceremony of the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Produced by Broadway Entertainment Group, created by Oliver Award-winning choreographer Dein Perry, Dein Perry’s TAP DOGS was originally directed and designed by Nigel Triffitt, with music by Andrew Wilkie and lighting by Gavin Norris.

Dein Perry’s TAP DOGS will play at: Cape Town Venue: Grand Arena, GrandWest From 22nd August 2018 Price: R215 – R360 *Up to 50% off all off-peak performances.

Johannesburg Venue: Montecasino From 29th August 2018 Price: R310 – R410 *Up to 50% off all off-peak performances.

Media enquiries, please contact: Dionne Domyan (Johannesburg, and National publicity) +27 (0) 833261776, prwork@iafrica.com Gwen Ironsi (Cape Town Publicity) +27 (0) 72 656 1906 gwen@pamberi-communications.co.za For more information please visit www.tapdogs.co.uk

Conscious Life Magazine

COMIC CON COMES TO AFRICA 14 -16 September 2018 at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre Reed Exhibitions Africa and, ReedPOP have partnered with VS Gaming on a South African first and will be bringing Comic Con to South Africa.

Comic Con Africa will showcase comic books and science fiction/fantasy related film, series and similar popular arts.

The exhibition will also feature a large range of pop culture and entertainment jkhbbbbbbkjhkjh elements in animation, toys, gadgets, clothing, anime, manga, collectible card games, video games, webcomics, and fantasy novels and an Artists' Alley, where comic artists can sign autographs and sell or do free sketches.

Superhero or sidekick – there will be exciting activations to enjoy that include professional gaming tournaments and activations, cosplay competitions, and new movie and series promotions. Comic Con Africa visitors can also enjoy international and local celebrity panel discussions, seminars, workshops and autograph sessions.

“ReedPOP has always stayed true to its core beliefs of always putting the fans first, creating killer events and being as transparent and authentic as possible. We try our hardest to bring massive amounts of fun and excitement to the lives of our audience by creating content and experiences that are original, exciting, memorable and exceptionally awesome. So, we are very excited for this new launch into Africa.”

“We are also very excited to be partnering with VS Gaming to bring this world-renowned convention to South Africa. Comic Con Africa is a fantastic opportunity to promote this growing industry on the continent,” says Carol Weaving, MD of Reed Exhibitions Africa.

On the strategic alignment with Comic Con Africa, Lenushka Parannath, spokesperson of VS Gaming shared, “VS Gaming has been at the forefront of a couple of firsts, last year we successfully hosted the largest e-football Festival in Africa and now we’re the first to be involved in Comic Con to Africa.”

Parannath continues, “We always aspire to bring gaming to life in a way that has never been experienced before and what better way to do that in 2018 than to align with Comic Con Africa. We are looking forward to hosting this incredible global brand for a 3-day out-of-this-world experience.”

ReedPOP has many global entertainment brands in its stable, including Comic Con New York, Star Wars Celebration (Lucas film), TwitchCon (Twitch) and PAX (Penny Arcade), and in collaboration with Reed Exhibitions Africa, will set the stage for Comic Con Africa - a first of its kind - to join the international league of epic comic book and industry enthusiast conventions.

Conscious Life Magazine

Conscious Life Magazine

FIND & BOOK ECO-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION IN SOUTH AFRICA lovetostay.co.za is your green heart guide to eco-friendly accommodation throughout beautiful South Africa. We partner with all kinds of accommodation establishments that operate in an eco-friendly, sustainable and responsible way. So whether you opt for a luxury boutique hotel or rustic tree house, you can feel good knowing your holiday supports a place that serves the environment and community in a positive way. To help you make these good choices, we are committed to growing a wonderful selection of urban and country, luxury and rustic green accommodation options where you will love to stay!

Search for your next green getaway on www.lovetostay.co.za by location or type; the Check Availability & Book Online green button will enable you to check real-time availability, make a booking & secure online payment through the Nightsbridge booking system at no extra charge.

WHAT IS ECO-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION? Eco-friendly accommodation is defined as a lodging establishment with structural features that minimize the impact and footprint on the environment; as well as well as those that follow green living, sustainability and eco-friendly practices.

WHAT ARE GREEN HEARTS? Look out for the Green Hearts Seal of each establishment. We are proud to showcase all of our members and love to highlight their specific efforts to protect and conserve the environment. Seals display between 1-5 Green Hearts as awarded to them for their positive Green Acts. Here`s more info!

Conscious Life Magazine

Conscious Life Magazine

Conscious Life Magazine

The Antbear Drakensberg Lodge is a thatched, whitewashed lodge built high on a natural platform overlooking the Bushman's River and Giants Castle.

Antbear Drakensberg Lodge offers various Drakensberg accommodation options in en suite double rooms, luxury suites, family units and also boasts a luxury cave too.

Antbear Drakensberg Lodge is one of those smaller intimate kind places which has been lovingly put together. The natural setting of the accommodation is stunning and we have managed to encase all this beauty with an atmosphere of comfort and ease.

The cottages are smartly appointed and individually designed and the fact that we are a small place makes for an intimate and personal accommodation experience. Each of the accommodation units are different and are decorated with uniquely eccentric and artistic wooden furniture.

It is a bit off the beaten track and is more of an insider tip than just another bed and breakfast. We cater for small intimate groups and never have more than 45 guests at a time. It's a laid back, lovingly cared for kind of place where you feel a sense of happiness and peace. Honeymoon stays turn into anniversary commemorations just as guests become friends. Even foreign tourists return for a second and third taste.

Attractions Drakensburg Hiking Trails Bushman Rock Art Giant’s Castle Kamberg Weenen Game Reserve Royal Natal National Park Drakensburg Boys Choir

Horse Trails Injasuti Nature Reserve Monks Cowl Natal Midlands Tugela Falls Sani Pass Fly Fishing

Retreats The Antbear Drakensberg Lodge is the ideal retreat venue where we can provide all the services and accommodation for your retreat. Situated 4 hours from Johannesburg and 2 hours from Durban with easy access from the N3 Antbear Lodge is easy to get to but has the feeling of being far from the madding crowd. This wonderful place for group retreats offers spectacular views, vast spaces, wild winds, rain, sunshine, clouds and rainbows and in all of this – silence and peace.

Retreat groups can book the whole lodge for their exclusive use.

The Lodge can accommodate 44 persons in 15 separate accommodation units Antbear Drakensberg Lodge has a spacious dining room with a wood-burning fireplace, a comfortable lounge with a fireplace and spectacular views, a breakaway meeting room, a large veranda and a large meeting room for retreat, team building or training activities. We provide excellent meals and will fit our menu to your expectations.

Conscious Life Magazine

Conscious Life Magazine

Because food is an important part of your stay Meals are part of the real surprises that the Antbear Lodge has to offer where home grown cooking is part of the deal. We like to use our own home grown organic vegetables and if we haven’t got, then we lean heavily on those local providers with similar attitudes to our own. Conny and Andrew both like cooking and are up to changing just about anything to suit tastes or philosophies. Our cooking experience is in part a journal, a record of events and memories expressed in recipes. In the course of our travels we have filed away many recipes and with them images of people and places and their lives. How food tastes has much to do with the associations we make and if you would like to hear the tales of our meals we would love to tell them.

Sustainable & responsible tourism is our social responsibility and what we do to give something back to our community and environment We believe in sustainable tourism and social responsibility. We live is a spectacularly beautiful place called the Drakensberg and our standard of living here is exceptional.

But around us lie contrasts of poverty and lack of development. If we are to keep our way of life then it surely follows that we must do everything in our power to contribute to the upliftment and prosperity of this rural area. We believe that the future of South Africa is linked to the prosperity of the people, and that upliftment is linked to education. And as such we have chosen to support our local primary school called Vulakani Primary School.

Pet friendly accommodation Drakensberg One of the few pet-friendly places in the Drakensberg. Beautiful, vast views of the Drakensberg with plenty of ground for my dogs to roam. Walk for hours.

Your dogs will be happy with lots of dams to swim in and horses to discover. One of the accommodation units at Antbear Lodge is fenced in so its really easy to leave your dog behind if you would like to explore some of the sights where pets are not that welcome. If country life is for you and you would love to take your pet with you then Antbear Lodge is a great accommodation choice. Your hosts will advise you on all the activities available. Antbear Lodge prides itself on being both family-friendly and petfriendly.

CONTACT Mobile 076 441 2362 Email: reservations@antbear.co.za Web: www.antbear.co.za

Conscious Life Magazine

Conscious Life Magazine

Vegan Diet “The Healthy Natural Alternative�

A VEGAN DIET FOR YOUR DOG – A FIRST IN SOUTH AFRICA

Vegans and vegetarians are often faced with the dilemma of choosing the best diet to feed their companion canines, taking into consideration not only their own ethics, but also the best interests of the dog/s they are taking care of.

Fortunately, even though many people would assume that a dog couldn't possibly be fed a 100% vegan diet, nothing could be further from the truth!

Despite descending from wolves, the domestic dog is classified as an omnivore.

The classification in the Order Carnivora does not necessarily mean that a dog's diet must be restricted to meat.

Unlike an obligate carnivore, a dog is neither dependent on meat-specific protein nor a very high level of protein in order to fulfill its basic dietary requirements.

Dogs are able to healthily digest a variety of foods including vegetables and grains, and in fact dogs can consume a large proportion of these in their diet. In the wild, canines often eat available plants and fruits.

As a matter of interest, there is even one dog which could completely be a Vegetarian and that is the Chow Chow. The Chow Chow originated in China (Tibet) where it was raised as a meat source for human consumption.

Since the Chow Chow was used as a meat source for human consumption, it was fed a diet of grains and vegetables - to produce a tender marbled meat.

Some may still argue that a vegan diet for a dog is unnatural in some way, but its important to note that in nature dogs wouldn't eat anything like what is commonly found nowadays - in a can or in pellet form..

Most commercial pet food is made of very questionable meats, not fit for human consumption, that would otherwise be thrown away.

These foods are filled with preservatives and other additives that, over time, can detriment the health of your pet. Indeed, studies conducted on pets fed commercial meat pet food reveal that diet-related complications can include "kidney, liver, heart, neurological, visual, neuromuscular and skin disease, bleeding disorders, birth defects, compromised immune system and infectious disease.“ So, not only is it possible to feed dogs a nonmeat diet, it can also be very nutritious and balanced. In Europe, there are plenty of commercially available, healthy vegan diets.

There is no reason why vegan / vegetarian pet lovers in our country shouldn't have the same choice.

For this reason Vondis Holistic Pet Nutrition has developed a well researched balanced Vegan diet, where you can be assured that your companion will receive all the correct nutrition and thus enable them to lead happier, healthier lives.

Vegan Diet Recipe and Nutritional Value In presenting any nutritious meal for human or pet, meat or vegan, there are two important considerations. The cooking method which you use to prepare your food and the other is the quality and choice of ingredients.

Vondis has always adopted scientific procedures to prepare the food and therefore, certain ingredients are left to simmer on a low heat and there are some that are included raw.

This very special Vondi’s cooking process ensures maximum nutritional value and digestibility.

In choosing the ingredients, we have utilized scientific and nutritional data to formulate a recipe that is totally balanced and nutritious and that will ensure a healthier and longer life.

Some of the ingredients include brown rice, millet, lentils, peas, barley, wheat germ, rolled oats, beetroot, butternut, sweet potato, carrots and a variety of freshly picked herbs.

To ensure the perfect balance we also supplemented with calcium gluconate, zinc gluconate, taurine, yeast, lecithin, kelp, dandelion and vitamin c.

So, not only is it possible to feed dogs a nonmeat diet, it can also be very nutritious and balanced. In fact, what started out as diet for moral and ethical reasons, has now be become popular for the treatment of ailments like skin disorders, arthritic problems and bladder disorders.

NOTE: Vondis Holistic Pet Nutrition non vegetarian meals include Beef, Chicken, Mutton, Ostrich and Special Chicken for Sensitive Skin.

Conscious Life Magazine

People have varying amounts of tolerance to pain and the same is true of their pets.

Some dogs may yelp and cry at the least discomfort, whilst another my not limp on an injured leg until it’s extremely damaged. Cats are notorious for being stoic and not showing that they are in pain.

Knowing your pet and his habits and behaviour is often the trigger to realizing he is hurting. You need to know what is normal for your pet, to be able to tell what is abnormal for them.

The skill of observing with a critical eye can be learned by anyone, and it starts with a genuine love and interest in your pet, his behaviour, posture and habits.

There are symptoms to watch for but often the first sign of pain in a family pet is the feeling of the owner that “something isn’t right”. When that impression remains for several days, a trip to the vet for a check-up is a good idea.

Symptoms of Pain: Vocalizing Your dog may whine when he rises from a sitting position or yelp when he jumps down from a chair. He may whimper when you massage a shoulder or make moaning or groaning sounds when at rest.

Your cat’s purring may actually increase, or he may be meowing incessantly or differently.

Panting is normal for dogs but constant panting in the absence of exercise or heat is unusual. Cats in pain may have a faster and more shallow breathing pattern than normal.

They may also even pant.

Montessori Magazine

Posture Know your pet’s normal posture at rest, as well as his normal gait. Sometimes postural changes may be very obvious e.g. our dog may limp with one leg or may appear to walk in an awkward, hunched position holding his front end and back end at uneven heights, or your horse may stand with his head in a lowered position. (When he stands with his head lower than his knees, it should set-off major alarm bells). If you know your pet’s “body language” , it will be easier to see when there is a deviation from the normal pattern.

“Cats in pain may have a faster and more shallow breathing pattern” Level of Activity Owners accustomed to a pet who follows them from room to room may notice the animal staying in one place instead. The dog may lay down, get up, circle and lay down again repeatedly trying to find a comfortable position and may have difficulty getting up after laying down. Cats experiencing pain often move around less. But depending on what hurts, they may still move around the same amount, just differently. They may move with a limp, or go more slowly up or down the stairs. Horses may show a decrease in activity or be reluctant to move, or may lag behind the rest of the group.

Heart and Pulse Change Animals in pain will often have an increased heart/pulse rate. The rate often noticeably speeds up when the painful area is touched or moved. You can enrol in a pet’s first aid course, or ask your veterinarian or veterinary nurse to show you how to check and measure your pet’s pulse rate.

Behavioural Changes Your pet may avoid social contact, or growl or snap when you touch part of his body or manipulate a joint. He may withdraw from petting and be reluctant to participate in play activity. Some dogs may become more needy than usual and seem to be asking for constant attention.

Incessant licking, scratching or chewing of one part of the body is a visible indication of itching or pain and an increase in drooling is another sign of a problem.

Be aware of changes in your horse’s behaviour in his turn-out group. Very often bad behaviour in horses have been attributed to them having a nasty character, but these unwanted behaviour patterns – swishing of the tail if you pass to close to their hind quarter, bucking, or dropping of the shoulder may be due to the fact that they are in pain.

Cats in pain are more likely to bite and scratch. This is true even with their owners and other familiar people. This is particularly true when a person touches or moves the painful area, or if the cat anticipates you touching or moving the painful area.

Cat’s may have a decrease in self-grooming when ill, or may groom excessively in an area with a wound. If your cat suddenly hides under beds or in cupboards it is s sure sign that he is in pain. Should your cat start to urinate or defecate outside his litter box it may be a sign of back/joint pain. They will struggle to get in and out of the litter box and

also with the posture needed to defecate, and as a result may become constipated.

Feeding changes Animals may lose their appetite when they are in pain or appear unusually tired or lethargic. Be aware of their feeding habits and pay attention to their feeding routine and changes to these routines. When they do go and eat and experience some pain in their mouth or the cause of their pain is related to their teeth, then they may drop food/water out of their mouth whilst eating/drinking.

Appearance Animals display facial expressions that their human companion recognize as part of the personality of their pet. A change in expression or physical appearance may be an indicator of a pet who is in pain.

Ears laid back may be unusual for the animal and a vacant stare that replaces the attentive look, or eyes that seem constantly tired and sleepy may be subtle clues of a joint that is aching or an injury that needs treatment.

Strained, tense nostrils, mouth and prominent chewing muscles, flattening of the horse’s profile, as well as tension seen above the eye area is a sure sign that your horse needs the vet or blacksmith or some dentistry.

Treatment for Pain Relief: Seek advice from your vet as soon as you notice your pet is in pain to determine the cause of pain. Prompt treatment can halt the progression of serious illness and relieve discomfort quickly.

Finding the cause of the discomfort can often lead to treatments with pet medicines that will control or even eliminate pain for the animal. Please do not self-medicate your pet.

Many fatalities have occurred with caring pet owners medicating their pets with human medicine. You can cause your pet severe

Montessori Magazine

distress and even death by giving your pet medicine meant for human beings.

Natural Medicines: Eco-Vet has a portfolio of registered natural medicine designed for treating various painful conditions. Eco-Heal is a must in your fist aid kit for pain and sudden onset injuries, while EcoJoint has been created for the treatment of animals with acute and chronic joint strains associated with mainly soft tissue injuries. May be effectively used before hard exercise to protect from work induced injuries. Is an effective remedy for use immediately after hard exercise as an aid to recovery. Eco-Arth is a natural remedy for the treatment of animals with chronic joint problems associated with degenerative disease, and had seen many animals regaining their mobility.

Montessori Magazine

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EVERY HOME NEEDS A LOVING PET! THERE ARE SO MANY BEAUTIFUL ANIMALS WAITING TO BE ADOPTED – PLEASE REACH OUT! WE ALSO ENCOCURAGE YOU TO REACH INTO YOUR HEARTS FOR THOSE WHO ARE LESS FORTUNATE AND REALLY NEED OUR HELP.

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At Operation Smile we believe every child suffering from cleft lip or cleft palate deserves exceptional surgical care.

For too many families around the world, safe surgery is not an option.

At Operation Smile we believe every child deserves exceptional surgical care. We believe all children deserve to be treated as if they were our own.

EVERY 3 MINUTES, a child is born with a cleft lip or cleft palate and may suffer from torments, malnourishment and difficulty with speech.

We dream of a world where no child suffers from lack of access to safe surgery. Learn why we do what we do in the video below.

That’s what drives each and every one of us: our global network of medical professionals, who donate hundreds of thousands of hours toward the care of children around the world each year, and our supporters who are moved every day to make a difference in the lives of children they’ve never met.

How you can help Operation Smile South Africa Building 17, 103/104, Waverley Office Park 5 Wyecroft Rd, Observatory 7925 (+27) 021 447 3608 infosa@operationsmile.org NPO number 083-117 NPO

A child’s cleft lip or cleft palate can be repaired for as little as R5500 and in as few as 45 minutes, but your gift is more than a surgery. All of our supporters give renewed hope to children and families around the world.

Dear Reader,

Because of animal lovers like you, Humane Society International is working around the clock to fight the gruesome dog meat industry – to end it for good.

We’ve slammed the doors permanently on nine dog meat farms in South Korea and rescued more than 900 dogs. Not only that, but we’re lobbying hard for better laws throughout Asia to fight the cruelty, transition farmers out of the business of cruelty, and so much more.

Here is one transformation that we can't stop smiling about. Sophie was rescued just this year from a horrible life on a dog meat farm. Now, she is running free and playing in the grass, surrounded by the love of her forever family:

This kind of ending never gets old, but so many other dogs still need you.

You can make a difference for dogs caught up in this brutal industry: Sign the dog meat pledge today.

With you by our side, we're committed to this huge fight against the dog meat trade. We’re closing farms and rescuing the animals; we’re raising public and political awareness of the cruelty involved; and we’re growing substantial support for a phase out and ban of South Korea’s dog meat farms. Become a part of the global campaign to end the dog meat trade—sign your name right now.

Thank you, for protecting animals from cruelty all across the globe.

Sincerely, Kitty Block President Humane Society International

Open your Hearts and your Homes PLEASE!! ADOPT BARNEY We have never received a single enquiry to adopt Barney đ&#x;˜˘ please share this boy has gone through so much.

Hard to believe this is the same boy, Barney, from April who was tied up and burnt with boiling water, before being rescued.

Animals are truly remarkable creatures and never cease to amaze us. When we first got him he was petrified of people.

Now he can't get enough of being loved and cuddled and will demand attention even nibbling He is good with other dogs of medium size and loves to play!

He would be best suited to a medium size, female companion. He shouldn't be with any cats, birds or small dogs as he has a high prey drive. on you to get you to notice him.

It is truly astounding to observe how forgiving a dog is.

They live in the moment and don't hold grudges. Even though this boy suffered extreme abuse he just wants to be loved by anyone who will show him attention.

He has the most expressive face and is so eager to please and learns quickly.

He's approximately 1 year old. Please can everyone share so he can find his forever home.

Email jhb@pets.org.za if you are interested in adopting

About Wags & Whiskers Rescue Team We are a small group of people who are dedicated to helping all furr-kids. Located in Fourways & Midrand JHB. Email wagsandwhiskers7@gmail.com Robyn: 084 593 1292 of Cheyna 082 307 2377

NEVAEH NEVAEH (Heaven spelled backwards) is being looked after

by Robyn herself until she can find her forever home. “She is beyond amazing. Can be skittish with strange men but she has been amazing with all the kittens, puppies, kids and whoever else comes through my door. Please someone offer her a forever home.�

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with much appreciation to our advertisers, contributors, endorsers and our readers namaste