Bermuda Parent Fall 2020

Page 1

PREGNANT WHILE DIABETIC

FREE MAGAZINE FALL 2020
emotions through mindfulness
Managing
New Feature:
SUGAR S Cookies IS FOR
BERMUDA PARENTS SPEAK
Nothing matters more than your life and providing for your family. Are you protected? Affordable and simple to set up, BF&M Life Insurance makes it easy to look after what matters most to you. And because the earlier you start, the lower your premiums, there’s never been a better time to call a BF&M Life Insurance advisor and find your perfect plan. What about this? You insure these. See how much Life Insurance you need at bfmlifeinsurance.com The BF&M difference? Insurance the way it should be. For more information call 295-5566 www.bfmlifeinsurance.com

The Future for Girls is Here

BHS EMPOWERS GIRLS to prepare for their future in its brand-new Innovation Centre and renovated Arts Wing. These state-ofthe-art buildings consist of five Science Labs, two Computer Science/ Robotics Labs, a Maker-Space, Digital Media Studio, upgraded Music Suites, Visual Arts, Drama and Dance facilities, a Recording Studio and a Leadership Centre for girls.

TO ARRANGE A PERSONAL TOUR OF BHS, contact Mrs. Minta Watson, Director of Admissions and Inclusion, 441-278-3047; mwatson@bhs.bm.

STR OUL
BERMUDA’S SCHOOL FOR GIRLS I EYP THROUGH IB I 441-295-6153 I WWW.BHS.BM
8 10 18 32 48 Cover Story 12 From Darkness To Light: Pregnant While Diabetic CONTENTS Fall 8 3 MYTHS ABOUT BABIES & SLEEP 10 BIRTH & BABIES BABY TODDLER 16 10 TIPS FOR PREPARING YOUR CHILD FOR NURSERY OR PRESCHOOL 18 VEGAN SAUSAGE ROLLS 4 PUBLISHER’S LETTER 6 NOTE FROM THE EDITOR KIDS 20 S IS FOR SUGAR COOKIES 22 CARING FOR YOUR CHILD WITH ASTHMA DURING COVID-19 24 EAT THE RAINBOW TEENS 32 RESUMÉ TIPS FOR TEENS & GRADUATES EDUCATION 44 5 TIPS FOR TEACHERS TO CONNECT WITH STUDENTS & THEIR FAMILIES 46 MANAGING DIFFICULT EMOTIONS WITH MINDFULNESS 48 4 TIPS FOR BALANCING WORK & SCHOOL FINANCE 28 KEEPING A PROMISE 38 BERMUDA PARENTS SPEAK 40 ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE & A STRONG WIFI CONNECTION 42 BLENDED 50 TEN SIGNS YOU NEED A BREAK FROM PARENTING PARENTING 15 Nursery Schools Directory 34 Boarding Schools Directory 36 Class of 2020 52 Birthdays 53 Word Search 5second - stock.adobe.com TristanBM - stock.adobe.com StockPhotoPro - stock.adobe.com Joshua Resnick - stock.adobe.com

Welcome

to our Fall issue! After having conversations with other business owners, I’ve done plenty of reflection on the past six months of 2020. This “new norm” has been an eye opener for many. It’s shown us that we have a lot of catching up to do or that we are forward thinkers in the business world.

If you are afraid of new technology, it’s time to jump right in feet first. It’s time to break out of your comfort zone! Take classes, stop being afraid to use the internet, learn how to use your smart phone to do more than make phone calls. If not, you will be left behind! As entrepreneurs, we are risk takers by nature; we thrive in this climate but unfortunately, it’s not for everyone.

For our advertisers, we thank you for your ongoing support. These have been difficult times for businesses of all sizes, but we have stood together and will continue to do so as we approach 2021. Our commitment is to create an even greater value with your advertising dollars.

This is just the beginning of our journey together with the NEW Bermuda Parent Magazine team.

For our readers, we will give you real, Bermuda Parent stories, no matter where you are from. If you are living here, you are a BERMUDA PARENT. And we welcome you as part of our reading family.

Because we love our community, we are giving our local talent in the photography industry a chance to show us their skills and freelance writers an opportunity to fill our pages with great content. So, if you think you have what it takes or even some story ideas, we welcome the feedback. Reach out. Talk to us. We want to make sure that the NEW Bermuda Parent Magazine is in every home whether it’s digitally or in print.

THE TEAM

WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS

MAGAZINE PUBLISHER

Kim N Caisey EDITOR

Carla LM Zuill

ADVERTISING SALES

Wanda Brown

adsales@kncmediagroup.com

MARKETING & PUBLISHER’S ASSISTANT

Evelyn Oteng-Pabi

DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Picante Creative

Akira Adams, Keisha Allen-Smith, Bermuda Creative Centre for Learning, Dorothy W. Bradshaw, Chantice Butterfield, Kim Caines-Best, Nicole Crockwell, Elicia Hollis,Jessica Maiato, Tracy Nash, RN, Dakia O’Brien, Evelyn Oteng-Pabi, Lorene Phillips, Rita Stevens, Carla Zuill

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Cover: Sakile Zuill, Chantice Butterfield, Nicole Crockwell, Dakia O’Brien

CONTACT US editor@kncmediagroup.com

Tel: 531.5489

www.mybermudaparent.com

facebook.com/bdaparentmag twitter.com/mybermudaparent

Bermuda Parent Magazine is published four times a year. Reader correspondence, photo submissions and editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without express written consent of the publisher. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this magazine. Distribution of this product does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services herein.

4 | BERMUDA PARENT MAGAZINE PUBLISHER’S LETTER
KIM CAISEY

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Mailing: Suite 436, 48 Par-La-Ville Road, Hamilton, HM 119 Location: F.S. Furbert Building, Berkeley Cultural Centre, 23 Berkeley Road, Pembroke HM09 296-5100 | Fax 292-0686 | info@musicschool.bm | www. musicschool.bm Sign Up NOW!

Cheez,

where has the time flown!

Can you believe it’s September already! In the blink of an eye we will be decking the halls!

To say 2020 has been an interesting one is an understatement. This pandemic arrived like a thief into the night and turned most of the world upside down.

But we are surviving and we have proved to be resilient, just like our cover mom Danielle Harney, who lost her sight while pregnant with her beautiful baby boy, Essex.

In this edition of Bermuda Parent Magazine, she shares her journey of bravery and strength and the determination to see her firstborn child.

September is always a special time of year as young people across the island transition to the next phase of their education. You can be guaranteed that there will be tears from the little ones (and some parents), looks of embarrassment from the middle schoolers (“Please do not post my pic of social media, ma!) and joy for the high schoolers—one year closer to freedom. Who remembers those days! What I wouldn’t do to go back to when the hardest decision I had to take was which homework assignment to complete first. Good times!

In this edition, we are launching a new feature, Bermuda Parents Speak. Turn to page 38 to see how Robert, Liz and Ambika feel about school reconvening for the 2020/2021 academic year.

The pandemic threw a wrench in many traditions this year, so we thought we’d pay homage to graduates across the island. Wishing them all the best!

I’d love to hear from you! Let us know how we’re doing. Drop me a line at editor@kncmediagroup.com.

Love & Blessings,

6 | BERMUDA PARENT MAGAZINE NOTE FROM THE EDITOR
CARLA LM ZUILL
“Sometimes the strength of motherhood is greater than natural laws.”
- Barbara Kingsolver
Left photo: Prostock-studio - stock.adobe.com; bottom-right photo: leszekglasner - stock.adobe.com
FALL 2020 | 7
- MICHELLE A WHITE EXECUTEMPS LTD

3 babies & aboutMYTHS sleep

Popular myths that were shared included:

Myth #1:

Never wake a sleeping child

Fact:

• Newborns need to eat frequently in order to consume sufficient calories. Maintenance/gain of bodyweight is particularly important in the first few weeks of life and in order to achieve this, you may need to wake your newborn so that they can feed every two to three hours

• There is a direct correlation between excessive daytime sleep and middle of the night wake ups. In order for your child to have appropriate nighttime sleep, it may be best to wake them from excessively long daytime

8 | BERMUDA PARENT MAGAZINE BABY
naps
I can clearly remember, the very moment I gave birth to my daughter. I was buried in feelings of love and gratitude. And almost immediately, I was inundated by wellintentioned, “You should…you’ll want to…you’ve got to…”
RedcupStudio - stock.adobe.com

Myth #2:

It take months for children to learn to sleep throughout the night

Fact:

• In the world of infant and child sleep science, we define ‘sleeping through the night’ as a 10 to 12-hour period of uninterrupted by feeding night-time sleep. In order to achieve this milestone, children generally must first meet developmental, bodyweight, feeding pattern and feeding frequency thresholds

• Some parents are fortunate enough to have a child that sleeps – without assistance or intervention – through the night before their first birthday. However, many parents may need to wait longer and /or provide assistance

Myth #3:

Children should sleep in their own rooms

Fact:

• The American Academy of Paediatrics and the World Health Organization both recommend that infants share a room with their primary caregivers for at least six months, ideally through to the first birthday. Please don’t confuse room-sharing with bed-sharing

• Beyond safety concerns, room-sharing can make feeding easier as well as help to reduce the stress and anxiety levels often experienced by new parents BPM

For support to help your baby sleep, visit www.the41stwink.com.

FALL 2020 | 9
5second - stock.adobe.com

Birth & Babies with Nurse Rita

QWill sex while pregnant hurt the baby? And if it doesn’t, when should we stop?

It is perfectly safe to have sex during pregnancy unless your doctor advises otherwise. There are some specific pregnancy problems where a doctor would advise “pelvic rest” meaning no heavy lifting, no housework, no exercise and no sex. This could be for a few weeks or for the entire pregnancy. Most women enter pregnancy at optimum health, and the hormonal changes give them a sexual surge. Partners often feel like they will hurt the baby, but need reassuring that all is well.

QOur son is two and still does not sleep through the night. We put him in his own room, but he cries and ends up in our bed. I do not want him there, but it’s the only way we can get a good night’s sleep. How can we get him to stay in his bed all night?

What happened to disrupt the previous sleep routine? Perhaps it was

teething, illness or travel, as these are the main culprits for a change in an established sleep pattern. Once this happens the parents have a tendency to relax the routine and it goes on for much longer than necessary. Leaving your children in your in bed with you seems much easier than walking back and forth taking taking them to their room. Now that you have decided that enough is enough, you must establish proper sleep associations.

The night routine for a twoyear-old starts between 5.30pm and 6.30pm, following dinner. This is when a winding down the day pattern should begin. This may include a bath/massage, special stuffed animal/ blankie and story time in a dimly lit, cool room. Go over the day in quiet tones and explain that the day is over,

10 | BERMUDA PARENT MAGAZINE BABY
alexeg84 - stock.adobe.com

and bedtime is important in order to prepare for more fun tomorrow.

Of course, they will cry and be unhappy that they are no longer in bed with you and every parent hates to hear their child cry. Remember that this cry is because you have now changed the rules and they will be displeased with this new change. Be strong! Your child is smart and will adjust if you are firm. Stick with your decision!

QAt what age should we take the bottle away from our child? I see three and fouryear olds but I think that’s too old. I say two but my husband says it’s too soon.

The removal of the bottle may cause emotional discomfort for you as you

transition from infant need to toddler needs. This change is more of a parent issue than a child development one.

I would suggest both of you have a discussion on your shared sense of how

fast time is moving; your once gurgling baby is now a small child with their own personality. Your child is now ready to move on to the next phase but the parents may not be so enthusiastic.

The use of a bottle should end between 12-18 months. Prolonged use of the bottle, may create tooth misalignment and cavities. The need for milk is much reduced to about eight to 12 ounces a day.

Most babies are offered a sippy cup between nine and 12 months old, with milk or water several times a day. This is to encourage drinking instead of sucking. By this age your older child should be eating a varied diet rich in iron, calcium, minerals and vitamins.

Nurse Rita Stevens is the owner of BirthPlus. To book a consultation, email her at nurserita94@gmail.com. BPM

FALL 2020 | 11
Email islandgirl@northrock.bm or check us out on Facebook at La Leche League of Bermuda. should be comfortable. If you are experiencing discomfort
contact
We’ve
or you have concerns about ,
us.
been mothers for over three decades. TristanBMstock.adobe.com

From Darkness to Light: PREGNANT WHILE DIABETIC

Giving birth is one of the best experiences most women dream of. From hearing the baby’s heartbeat for the first time to holding the beautiful bundle of joy, the pregnancy journey is one never to be forgotten.

But imagine not being able to see your baby after carrying him for nine months—and fearful if you ever will.

Danielle Harney, 28, was one of those moms. She gave birth to her first child, Essex, in November 2019, but due to the complications brought on by diabetes she was not able to see his beautiful face right away.

She was diagnosed with Type-1 diabetes at the age of eleven. She recalls the first time she took ill.

“I suffered from severe headaches and had a huge increase in appetite but was losing weight. I was also drinking a lot of water but that wasn’t unusual as that is all I drink, but I was just drinking a lot more of it. I thought it

kittikorn Ph. - stock.adobe.com 12 | BERMUDA PARENT MAGAZINE

was just because it was summer. One Sunday, I was laying on the couch and literally couldn’t move because I felt so ill, but I still finished off a roast dinner and wanted seconds!

“My mom knew something had to be wrong so made an appointment for me to see the doctor the following day. The doctor had me take a blood test, and by the time we got home, he left a message asking my mom to call him back as soon as possible. He told her it was a good thing she brought me in when she did, if not I would have slipped into a diabetic coma. The next day I was admitted into the hospital, where I spent a week.”

Danielle was subsequently fitted with an insulin pump and has lived a healthy and active lifestyle like every other young woman her age.

In 2019, she learned she was pregnant. Because of her diabetes and an underactive thyroid, Danielle was committed to eating properly and exercised regularly to ensure that her sugars remained at a healthy level.

However, last summer she realised that something was amiss. Danielle was initially receiving laser treatments on her eyes locally. But when her vision did not improve, she was referred for treatment overseas.

“I knew something was wrong with my eyes when I started to see little floaters in early August last year. I was first sent to Mass General in Boston for laser treatment in September as they didn’t want to do surgery until after the baby was born. By October my eyes had worsened

FALL 2020 | 13

so badly that the doctor decided to send me to Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. The surgeon there took the decision to operate as the risk of losing my sight was so great, he felt it outweighed the risk to the baby. The baby was monitored immediately prior

my eyes it didn’t seem possible that my vision would return. It was frightening having so many surgeries and being far from home each time. I’m so thankful for my circle of supp ort by my side every step along the way.”

Essex was born November 3, 2019.

he arrived six weeks early and had to receive immediate medical attention. And although she couldn’t see him, she never gave up hope that she would be able to one day.

“I gave birth in darkness. I hate to use the word blind because I believed that one day my sight will return.

“For the first week I got to know Essex by holding him close and breast feeding. I would hold him close to my face and imagine the day that I could see him fully. After a week in the hospital I had to return to Mount Sinai for another surgery. Essex was still in the hospital nursery. My dad and Essex’s dad would send videos everyday so that I could talk and sing to Essex so he wouldn’t forget my voice. A few days after surgery when the vision in my right eye slowly started to appear, I could make out Essex’ face on the video when I held it right up to my eye. Once I returned home two weeks later it’s hard to describe the emotions I felt holding Essex and seeing this little person that belonged to me. Everyone left me alone to spend a quiet few moments with my son. The tears I shed were a mix of pure joy, relief, and anxiety of what the future would hold for me.”

With Essex set to celebrate his first birthday in a few weeks, Danielle is yet to regain her sight fully, but she remains optimistic that it will continually improve.

to and after each surgery.”

While saying Essex was never in danger, she was shares she was terrified that she would never be able to see again.

“Based on what the doctors were telling me regarding the damage to

Although she fully dilated, the doctors did not allow Danielle to give birth vaginally, wanting to ensure that there was no pressure on her eyes as she had just had surgery on them. When she gave birth, she was unable to hold him until the following afternoon because

“I have one surgery remaining to remove the bubble from my left eye but due to COVID-19, I have been unable to fly to New York to have this done and unfortunately it can’t be done in Bermuda. I have about 80% vision in my right eye and can make out the difference between light and dark in my left eye.”

When asked if she would endure all of this again, knowing Essex would be the end result, without skipping a beat, Danielle replies: “Sure would.” BPM

14 | BERMUDA PARENT MAGAZINE
I gave birth in darkness. I hate to use the word blind because I believed that one day my sight will return.

Play with a Purpose

We believe that play supports all areas of a child’s development. We create a safe and nurturing environment where children are free to learn important skills through their play. We explore the interests of the children to encourage learning and to help develop an understanding of the world around them.

We have three classrooms and accommodate children from 2-5 years.

We are open between 8.15 and 3.30pm every day, during school term times.

Email: admissions@play.bm

Phone: 236 4835

Website: www.play.bm

Learning Through Creative Purposeful Play

From literacy development to social skills and creative expression, the children at Sweet Pea Nursery are constantly being exposed to new activities and environments in which to thrive. We build on the strengths and interests of each child to help build a solid foundation where they can develop their futures.

Tel: 232-7217

Email: Sweetpeabda@gmail.com

FALL 2020 | 15 NURSERY SCHOOLS DIRECTORY
Learn more about our elementary program at MSA. Using the Reggio Emilia approach, student engagement is driven through experiential learning and creative exploration of the fascinating world around them. msa.bm We invite the curious. Contact us today for more information or to book an evaluation! 336-5455 • admin@functionjunction.bm www.functionjunction.bm • find us on Facebook Function Junction is a child-centered private practice with the goal of optimizing your child’s abilities and supporting them in reaching their full potential. Here’s what we offer: Developmental Screenings Full Evaluations Written Reports Home Programmes Individual & Group Sessions Classroom & Home Observations Bike Riding Training and Education Holiday Camps …and more! FUNCTION JUNCTION

10 TIPS FOR PREPARING YOUR CHILD FOR

Visit your new nursery and request an orientation day (or more) before your child’s actual start date. Helping them to adjust to the new setting while you are there may help with some of the fears that come with entering an unknown environment with new faces. I am not saying that there will not be some tears during the first days but it will definitely help your child if they had some form of familiarity with the setting.

2

Develop a routine at least two weeks prior to starting. Children thrive on being in control and knowing what comes next. If you start developing routines (bedtime, breakfast, preparing to leave the house) it will help them in knowing and being comfortable about what their day will look like. The drop off routine will probably be the most important one of all. Once you say goodbye, leave

BY ELICIA HOLLIS

seems like meaningless play will actually be the best foundation for your child. Form relationships with your teachers and don’t be afraid to ask questions. When teachers are planning and preparing lessons they will take every child’s needs and learning styles into perspective. Each child learns differently.

5Children learn best through play. What seems like meaningless play will actually be the best foundation for your child. Form relationships with your teachers and don’t be afraid to ask questions. When teachers are planning and preparing lessons they will take every child’s needs and learning styles into perspective. Each child learns differently.

without further delay and whatever you do…DO NOT sneak off, as this will only add to their anxiety.

3

Keep a positive mindset and try not to express your fears or concerns around your child. If parents are uneasy about this transition your little ones will feed off of your emotions too.

4

Make sure you are aware of the potty training policy. If your child being potty trained is not a requirement for nursery, don’t stress about it and don’t compare your child to others. Each child is unique and they will get it when it is their time to be trained. Putting pressure on them because you think they should be ready or because another child the same age is, will only make this process long, frustrating for all, and messy. Children learn best through play. What

Monkey Businessstock.adobe.com

16 | BERMUDA PARENT MAGAZINE
Entering a new environment can be frightening for anyone, including our toddlers and preschoolers. Below are ten tips I share with my parents when preparing for a new school year.
NURSERYOR PRESCHOOL TODDLER

6

Do not send food to nursery that your child has not tried at home. Nursery is not the place or the time to do this. Not only does it provide unwanted stress on the child but also a defiant child will end up not having enough to eat throughout the day if they refuse. This can lead to behavioural issues or irritability. 7

Expect your child’s immune system to be challenged. If it is your child’s first time going to a nursery setting, expect their immune system to be challenged by all types of germs. Help them develop a strong resistance by feeding them a nourishing diet (limit sugary foods), practice good hygiene habits at home, and get

them in bed early to ensure they get plenty of rest. 8

Allow your child some independence at home by having them dress and feed themselves. They love showing off when they are successful at it and this will only help when they are away from you. Encourage their independence with lots of praise. Of course this may mean getting up a little earlier in the morning to avoid the rush of stepping in to get things done in the interest of time. 9

Social readiness is an important skill. Learning how to get along with others, make new friends, interact with their teachers will be one of the first skills that will be put

in place. Make arrangements for play dates with some of the children who will be attending the same nursery. This will help them when they see familiar friendly faces. 10

Trust the process and allow the nursery you chose time to find out what works best for your child. Some children can do great from the very beginning with full days while others need an adjusted schedule in the beginning. Keep in communication with your child’s teacher and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Elicia Hollis is the owner of Sweet Pea Nursery which caters to children between the ages of two and four years. She operates the nursery on the belief that children learn through creative and purposeful play. BPM

FALL 2020 | 17
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Vegan

SAUSAGE ROLLS

PERFECT FOR TINY HANDS!

Who says not eating meat is equal to not having fun foods for the kids? There are many delicious snacks that can be made for your little ones and just the perfect size for their chubby little hands. Sausage rolls are an all-time favourite…and easy to make.

Ingredients

1 Can of Butter Beans

1 cup of walnuts (if nut allergy, use 1 cup of lentils )

2 tbsp of tamari soy sauce

2 tbsp of ground flaxseed

2 tbsp of vegetable oil

1 tsp each of paprika, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, garlic salt

Puff pastry (pre made cuts down on prep time significantly)

Instructions

1. Mix all together until all the ingredients are combined.

2. Cut puff pastry in half. Place vegan ‘meat’ in middle of the pastry, then fold over. Use a fork to close the pastry and brush top of each pastry with oil.

3. Bake for 25-30 minutes at 200° or until golden brown.

Enjoy! BPM

18 | BERMUDA PARENT MAGAZINE TODDLER

SUMMER CAMPS: REGISTER TODAY

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Information sessions covering:

UV radiation – why is it harmful / when is it strong enough to damage?

Skin cancer – who is at risk?

Simple steps to protect skin outdoors

Importance of developing a protective and proactive camp policy

Assistance with preparing a SunSmart Policy for your camp

Protective sunglasses, sunscreen and hats provided at no charge

An on-site camp assessment of policy implementation

GET STARTED

Choose one (1) session, starting at 5:30pm at Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre on Point Finger Rd. in Paget.

Tuesday, June 23

Thursday, June 18

Wednesday, June 17

TO REGISTER YOUR CAMP FOR THE SUNSMART ACCREDITATION PROGRAMME, CALL 236-1001 EXT.1005 OR EMAIL SUNSMART@CHC.BM.

PROTECT THE SKIN YOU’RE IN Bermuda National Tumour Registry 1. SLIP on Protective Clothing 2. SLOP on SPF 30 Sunscreen 3. SLAP on a Broad Brimmed Hat 4. SEEK Shade... Anywhere! 5. SLIDE on Wrap-Around Sunglasses SKIN CANCER AT A GLANCE 236-1001 info@chc.bmw ww.chc.bm
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services:

S

IS FOR

Cookies

Some of the best memories are created in the kitchen! Who didn’t beg to mix whatever was in the bowl, especially if it was the batter from cookies or cake? And of course it was the added treat of licking the bowl…great memories!

A treat that is loved in just about every Bermudian home is the sugar cookie. Whether adding them to your child’s lunchbox or taking them to the beach (in a glass jar if you’re old school!), they are the snack that never gets old.

Here is a quick go to recipe that can be altered to suit your taste. Not a fan of nuts? Remove the almond flavouring. If you love your cookies with a little tang, add a touch of lemon essence. But most of all, enjoy! BPM

Ingredients

1 lb of butter

2 c of icing sugar

4 c flour

1 egg beaten

3 tsp vanilla

½ tsp almond

sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

1. Pre-heat oven to 350°

2. Cream together the sugar and butter

3. Add the egg and mix well

4. Add the vanilla and almond and mix well

5. Add flour and mix until the mixture thickens and becomes stiff (if soft place in the fridge for 20 min.)

6. On a greased or parchment lined cookie sheet add a tablespoon of cookie mix

7. Using a fork press the cookies flat

8. Add sprinkles (optional)

9. Place the cookie sheet in the middle or top rack for about 12 mins or until the cookies have browned to your liking.

10. Take the cookies out and allow them to cool before placing them in an airtight jar for maximum freshness BPM

20 | BERMUDA PARENT MAGAZINE
KIDS Sugar
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asthma

Caring for your child with during the Covid-19 pandemic

During these challenging times parents may have extra concerns if their child has asthma. The good news is that children with asthma are no more likely to get Covid-19 than their peers and children who do get the coronavirus tend to have mild symptoms similar to the common cold.

But what if my child has asthma?

Not many children have been found to have the coronavirus so it is still hard to predict how the coronavirus may affect a child with asthma. But asthma and Covid-19 both affect the lungs and so a child may develop more severe symptoms if they have asthma. That is why it is so important to ensure that your child’s asthma is well controlled.

Make sure your child takes their preventer inhalers every day as prescribed. Any respiratory virus or seasonal allergy may be a trigger for your child’s asthma but is it the common cold, the flu, seasonal allergies or is it Covid-19. Many of the symptoms are similar between the respiratory illnesses. The following chart can help you work out if it is an allergy a respiratory illness or possibly Covid-19.

Source https://www.aafa.org/ media/2631/respiratory-illness-symptoms-chartcoronavirus-flu-cold-allergies.png

If your child has a fever and a cough call your doctor.

Returning to School

This year it may be even more important that your child is prepared for returning to school. Each school will have different policies in place for social distancing and handwashing, prepare your child for different routines by explaining these new protocols.

Every year, about two to three weeks after school students return to school, there is a spike in asthma attacks or flare ups. This results in a dramatic increase in children suffering from increased asthma

22 | BERMUDA PARENT MAGAZINE
KIDS

symptoms (cough, wheeze, shortness of breath) often requiring visits to emergency room or hospital admissions.

Children returning to school face increased exposure to viral infections (colds) and allergens such as mould or dust-mites found in the classroom.

Develop a good routine so that your child takes their preventer inhalers daily as prescribed.

If your child is using their relief inhalers (usually blue) more than twice a week and experiencing asthma symptoms, coughing, wheezing, waking at night or feeling out of breath contact your doctor for an urgent visit.

What can you do to lessen the risks for your child with asthma?

• At least two weeks before school resumes ensure your child is taking their asthma preventer inhalers daily as prescribed.

• Have an asthma review with their doctor and update or develop a written asthma action plan.

• Make sure your child knows what to do if they experience an asthma attack at school, do they know where their relief inhaler (Ventolin) is kept? Do they know how to use their relief inhaler?

• Ensure they have a relief inhaler with spacer correctly labelled at school, check expiration dates.

• Speak to the school about your child’s asthma, do the teachers know what to do if your child has an asthma attack? Ask your school if the school staff have taken the Open Airways online supporting children’s health asthma course available at www. openairways.com

• Teach your child good hand washing techniques.

• If your child is sick keep them home from school.

• Get the annual flu shot when available.

Returning to school is an exciting time. Let’s be prepared and reduce the chances of an asthma attack.

Tracy Nash, R.N., is the Director of Asthma Education at Open Airways. If you would like to talk to an asthma nurse please contact Open Airways on 232 0264 or nurse@openairways.com BPM

and Preschool

Where Your Child Learns for a Brighter Future

Located at 69 North Shore Rd, Hamilton Parish. Serving families in the Eastern Parishes and beyond since 1998.

Your child‘s day is comprised of opportunities to build an excellent foundation for the early years of education. Our approach to teaching provides our children with sound moral principles, exploratory learning, early literary skills, monthly Early Years programs with the Bermuda National Gallery, Bermuda Gymnastics, Music Classes with Simons Music School and Spanish.

Teachers Qualified ECE, First Aid & CPR Certification, SCARS Trained and Vetted Staff.

Accepting students 18 months to four years of age.

FALL 2020 | 23 Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Currently accepting applications 2019/20. Contact us at 737-8385 or happymomentsnews@yahoo.com
HAPPY MOMENTS Nursery
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PickyEaters

Little

Eat the

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KIDS

that rarely caught anyone’s attention.

It may not be visually appealing but the information is very important. The food pyramid gave us Nutrition 101. We learned about fats and sugars, dairy, grains, meats and so on. It also supplied us with the recommended servings we should have each day. With no shame at all, raise your hand if you follow this daily with your kids? Raise your hand if your kids can remember most of the information on the chart?

If you raised your hand, congratulations, I am proud of you. If you didn’t, pull up a chair and lean in closer.

Have you ever heard the saying, “You eat with your eyes?”

Well it’s true. Studies have shown that when a food is more visually appealing, it’s more appetising. Out of the five senses, sight comes first. You see your food before you taste and touch it and most times before you smell it.

Colour is important! We can use colour to influence our kids’ eating habits and encourage them to eat healthier foods. The use of different colour combinations will have kids in love at first sight. So in love, they will rarely notice foreign ingredients.

rainbow!

FALL 2020 | 25
When we were in primary school, in home studies we were all taught the fundamentals of eating. Come on, you know that triangle with all the fruits and vegetables in it known as the food pyramid? That bland looking thing

Now, before you go and start throwing a rainbow of mess on a plate, let’s discuss what properties each colour holds.

Green

Green vegetables and fruits are the most accessible. They include lettuce, asparagus, celery, and grapes with the most popular being broccoli. Green vegetables are associated with cellular health, digestion and eyesight. Detoxing is also associated with green vegetables.

Red

Tomatoes, peppers, beets, red onion, strawberries and plums are just a few fruits and vegs that fit in this category. The reds are just as important as the greens. Packed with potassium and Vitamin A & C, reds are great with lowering blood pressure and helping with your urinary tract amongst other things.

Orange

My mom used to always tell me to eat my carrots if I want good eyesight and I swore down she was crazy! But it’s true, orange vegetables contain beta-carotene; when in the body it converts into Vitamin A, which is the main component in health hair, skin and vision.

Yellow

Yellow and orange fruits/veg are very close in relation and often categorised together. Yellows are known to help boost your immune system and help with skin just like oranges. They also are full of vitamin C and potassium, like bananas. Hold tight Bermuda, the drought is almost over!

Purple/Blue

Not many kids like beets and eggplant. Not to worry though, some farmers use selective breeding to alter the color of vegetables. For example, you can now purchase purple cauliflower, carrots, potatoes and asparagus just to name a few. Although slightly altered they still carry the same nutritional benefits. Purple vegetables contain anthocyanin which protects you from cancers, protects mental health and is a great anti-inflammatory. Blueberries and blackberries are great to incorporate into your child’s diet.

White/Brown

Just because they aren’t colourful, that doesn’t mean that they should be left out. The whites carry properties that assist with healthy bones and aides in a healthy circulatory system. Potatoes, onions, cauliflower, mushrooms and garlic are just a few that fall in this category.

There are so many more benefits of adding colour to your meals. Talk to your children about the benefits of fruits and veg and grab their attention with the colours. Also, don’t overdo it, start with tiny portions here and there until they get used to it. A key tip is to include one or two new items in a meal they like. The extra dash of colour mixed with something familiar is a likely hit.

Remember, we eat with our eyes. Make it bright and make it right!

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Visit our website at www.thepickylittleeatersclub.com to sign up for virtual cooking classes, cool, kid friendly recipes and merchandise. BPM
Children Email: info@scars.bm Phone: 297-2277 Children should be allowed and encouraged to tell you anything about anyone who makes them feel uncomfortable.  www.scarsbermuda.com
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We encourage parents and caregivers to let children know that they can share with you their fears and concerns about others, without judgement, anger or retribution.
Keeping Lines of Communication Open About Body Safety Helps Protect
Prostock-studio

An investment that feels right at home.

Holding most equity funds involves having your money invested in foreign organisations and far-away markets. Butterfield offers a home-based alternative for those who want to invest their money in businesses they know and use every day.

The Bermuda Fund is a curated portfolio of securities from local companies designed to provide long-term capital growth. It is priced in Bermuda dollars and requires a minimum initial investment of just $1,000.

E-mail invest.bermuda@butterfieldgroup.com, or call us on 299 3817. Let’s chat.

The Bermuda Fund A high performance fund with an annualised +14.40% return 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 Past performance is not indicative of future results. Butterfield Asset Management Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Bank of N.T. Butterfield & Son Limited and licensed to conduct Investment business by the Bermuda Monetary Authority. Address: 65 Front Street, Hamilton HM12, Bermuda.
+30.45% +10.48% -0.01% +30.99% +5.58%

KEEPING A

PROMISE

For the past few months, we have spent so much time with our families due to the global pandemic. COVID-19 has turned our lives around completely without warning. Over 14.5 million people have been affected by this disease and over 600,000 have died. What is going through your mind?

Is your family protected? Is your family’s future protected? Your children’s education? When a loved one passes away, the last thing on your mind is money. But a life insurance policy can help families protect their futures and ease financial burdens. A life insurance payout could support your family’s financial security. We can’t predict the future. However, we can help our loved ones by planning for it with a life policy. Here’s what you need to know to get started.

What is life insurance cover?

Life insurance is a plan that pays a lump sum to your family after you die. Most life insurance plans are for a fixed period of time and will pay out only if you die during that time period, or term policy. Whole-life cover is more of an investment but will pay out a lump sum whenever you die as well. The good thing about whole-life policies is

that you own the policy versus renting the coverage like in a term policy. Why should I get life insurance coverage?

Life insurance will help protect your family financially after you die, in several ways:

Paying for funeral costs

In Bermuda, the funeral can cost $5,000 to $25,000 depending on your choice of send-off. About 60% of Bermudians do not have a plan or funds to cover their funerals. With a Life Policy, your family doesn’t have to worry about the financial burdens that will be on them in the event of your passing. Thousands of families haven’t expected their loved ones to die through COVID19. Many have been cremated because their families didn’t the funds to bury them like they wanted to.

Replacing income

Your income not only pays for day-today expenses but also provides a source for future costs, such as education expenses and retirement. A term-life policy of 20 years or longer can take care of immediate cash needs as well as provide income for your survivor’s future needs. Another alternative is a cash-value life insurance policy, such as whole-life policy. The cash-value

accumulation of these policies can be used to fund future income needs for college or retirement, even while you are still alive.

Many folks believe in putting aside money in their bank account. Why not invest it in a life policy that is worth more? Placing $200 into a whole-life policy will be worth more to your family in the event of death than in a bank account. Think of it like this, if you were to deposit $200 in your bank account once a month for a year, your family will receive $2400, which does not even cover your funeral. With a life policy, $2400 yearly premium will give your family around $100,000 if you are 35-year-old female. Now, this will cover your funeral, other expenses after death, and may replace a few months of income.

Paying off debt

For most people, the home is one of the most valuable assets and the largest source of debt. An untimely death may remove a primary source of income used to pay the mortgage, leaving the family nothing left to live on. A term policy can replace the lost income by providing life insurance for the length of the mortgage and longer. If you die before the mortgage is paid off, the term policy gives your beneficiary an

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FINANCE

amount sufficient to pay off the outstanding mortgage balance owed. What about mortgage protection? What is the difference? Mortgage protection and term policy are almost the same, except mortgage protection decreases with the balance owed and term policy is a fixed face value for the years of coverage. Term policy is highly recommended for paying off mortgages as the policy is owned by you and not the bank.

Granting a peace of mind

The question that is asked every day is, how long would your dependents need support if you were to die tomorrow? What will happen to your dependents if you don’t have a plan in place? The most important part of keeping those promises is making sure your loved ones would be okay financially if something was to happen to you. Taking five minutes out of your busy schedule will save your family’s future even after you pass.

For more information and a free consultation, please contact Jessica Maiato at Freisenbruch Meyer at 294-4618. BPM

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Call us TODAY!

SCHOOLS DIRECTORY

Saltus

Saltus is Bermuda’s premier co-educational, independent day school for students aged 4-18. Known for our high academic standards and the success of generations of Saltus alumni, Saltus today is a diverse, creative and innovative learning environment for students seeking a rich educational experience that prepares them for the world of opportunity to come. We are an accredited member of CAIS, Canada’s independent education accrediting body whose strict standards are the seal of excellence for the country’s finest schools. The range of our programme embraces a global perspective and underscores our commitment to students’ aspirations wherever that might take them.

TEL: 292-6177

WEB: www.saltus.bm

The Etiquette Enhanced Lifestyle

Establishing personal down time for wellbeing is encouraged. The challenge is to #1, consistently set the time aside and # 2, maximize the benefits of what can be accomplished in any such dedicated period of time. This program of private, bespoke sessions develops a personal lifestyle supporting a less stressful, inner sense of calm. In specifically tailored one on one sessions ‘living the culture of etiquette,’ participants begin to understand and learn the type of experiences that develop that lifestyle. The ability to navigate life with the resilience and confidence needed to face future challenges becomes second nature. A solid grounding for further career and life coaching experiences or simply an etiquette enhanced lifestyle, is established.

For further information, please contact: Trudy Snaith, The Executive School of Protocol tsnaith@ibl.bm; 441-505-8358; Post Office Box MA 40, Somerset, Bermuda MA BX; www.esop.bm

FALL 2020 | 31 Kids 12 and under eat for FREE every Wednesday night at Divots!* *One child per adult meal. FAMILY NIGHTS JOIN US FOR 25 Belmont Hills Drive, Middle Road, Warwick | 434-8687 | www.divots.bm

TEENS

TEENS and GRADUATES Resumé Tips for F

inding your first job or preparing for the job hunt can be daunting for a recent high school graduate. Whether you’ve just completed high school or are attending university, getting the right job experience is vital in reaching your career goals. The idea of applying for jobs may seem frightening for some with todays’s job market, but here are a few simple tips can help make the process easier.

A resume’ is a formal document which allows for a job applicant to

itemise qualifications, career aspirations and achievements for a desired job position. It should always be accompanied by a cover letter, which is used to allow the applicant the opportunity to express interest in a specific job or company. It draws attention to the skills one possesses, highlighting what makes them an ideal candidate and an asset to the organisation.

When creating a resume’ you should always have two versions. One should be career specific and the other focusing on entry-level skills such as customer service. It is important to

adapt both versions to any job which is being applied for. It shows genuine interest in the role and demonstrates you’ve read and comprehended the job description, knowing what skills are expected of the ideal candidate.

One of the first decisions which should be taken is what type of resume to write: chronological, functional or combination. Each resume’ will be beneficial for each person depending on their experience, background and career objectives. A resume’ is a step in creating a professional, readable document therefore, making specific decisions such as font size, font style and margin size you want to present a document that allows a recruiter to quickly visualise your goals and skills to determine whether you are suitable for a role.

A combination resume’ is best for graduates. This type of resume tends to be a mix of chronological and functional and allows more flexibility. It leads with education/qualifications, work experience and skills followed by reverse-chronological work history.

It’s important to start your resume’ with a career objective; a short concise summary of your career goals, skills and motivation. Don’t be afraid to highlight your willingness to increase the skills you already possess to improve on your career and personal development skills.

If you’re writing without much work experience, focus on your education to fill in the document body. Emphasise any subjects which have

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been studied that will be of asset to you in the role. Once you gain more experience and are awarded qualifications, this section can be moved.

If you have work experience, whether it’s part-time or summer employment, list them after your education in reverse order. When summarising your duties, use bullet points and short concise sentences in the right grammatical tense. Don’t forget to include any volunteering opportunities and positions of responsibilities. There are many transferable skills which are developed and learnt in these environments. Think about the tasks you’ve completed and what skills you used to complete any particular project. Skills could include but are not limited to partnering and collaborating, public speaking, self-supervision, time management and organising and planning.

Ensure you add any short courses or training completed, this could be Safeguarding, Customer Service and or IT. Lastly references, there is no real need to include them in your resume any more, most times references aren’t asked for until you’ve received a confirmation of employment or it would be included in the application form.

Formatting a combination resume include the following sections:

• Career Objective

• Education

• Work Experience (Relevant & Additional)

• Volunteering

• Positions of Responsibility (Student Council, Debate Team, Prom Committee)

• Key Skills

• Qualification and Training

Eight Success Factors for Resume Building

• Always submit resume’ and cover Letters as a PDF and not as a Word document.

• Submit a cover letter specifically addressed to the company you’re apply for.

• Limit your resume’ to two pages.

• Use a simplistic but professional email address

• Use content and keywords tailored towards application requirements.

• Don’t use fancy fonts; less is more.

• Stick with using consistent formatting –font, line spacing and alignment.

• Ask a peer to review your resume’ for grammar and readability. BPM

Akira Adams is the owner of HIRE Consultancy, a resume’ and curriculum vitae service, specialising in CV building. She can be reached at hireconsultancy@outlook.com.

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BOARDING SCHOOLS DIRECTORY

Bishop’s College School

Established in 1836 in Quebec, Canada, Bishop’s College School (BCS) is an IB World School offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and certificates. Situated on a 250-acre campus close to the city of Sherbrooke, BCS is a small, welcoming community with students from over 40 different countries. By embracing a rigorous yet supportive academic program that includes athletics, the arts, leadership and development, and global citizenship, BCS prepares students to become tomorrow’s leaders. We offer a Bilingual Option (English and French), as well as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award program. We are also a proud member of Round Square through which students can go on exchanges, volunteer for projects in developing countries, attend international conferences, and participate in activities at school and in the local community.

www.bishopscollegeschool.com

admissions@bishopscollegeschool.com

The Fessenden School

Located just minutes from historic Boston MA, Fessenden is the oldest and most prestigious U.S. boarding school for boys, ages 11-15, in the U.S. Fessenden embraces a student-centered, teacher-supported approach that promotes interactive exchange over direct instruction, collaboration over competition, and learning for life over learning for school.

The Fessenden boarding experience is specifically designed to provide the academic, social, and emotional support boys need during their critical pre-teen/teen years. And, with a weekend program considered to be one of the best in the country, it is no wonder that Fessenden attracts students from across the U.S. and around the globe. Learn more at fessenden.org or call us at 617-620-2300.

The Gow School

The Gow School is a college-prep boarding and day school for students, grades 6-12, with dyslexia and similar language-based learning disabilities.

Focusing on small class sizes, 3-7 students per class, and a low 4:1 student to faculty ratio, The Gow School offers a multisensory approach to teaching that enables dyslexic students to thrive. The Gow community has a sense of belonging, of equality, and of connection born on common trials and shared triumph.

In July, the school’s co-ed summer program is five weeks of learning and fun for ages 8-16! The Gow School Summer Program is for students who have been experiencing academic difficulties, or have been diagnosed with dyslexia or specific learning disabilities. The Summer Program runs from the end of June to early August with morning academics, afternoon fun and games and weekend adventures! The Gow School Summer Program gives students academic tools and self-confidence they can take with them wherever they go; to the classroom and beyond.

Email: admissions@gow.org

Phone: 716.687.2001

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BOARDING SCHOOLS DIRECTORY

g through a Personalized of Growth!

Vanguard

We support co-educational students in 6th through 12th grades who experience an array of learning challenges, by individualized learning opportunities, executive functioning solutions, while students gain the confidence to drive motivation and goal attainment. Our students utilize core values (community, resilience, integrity, empathy, and leadership) to self-evaluate their behaviors and intentions. All students are valued and celebrated for their individuality and strengths.

Vanguard Summer Camp takes students through STEAM projects into the great outdoors! We assess student skills, work on Executive Functioning, and build friendships. Our experiences include interactive Adventure Camp (grades 6-12), Credit Retrieval (grades 9-12), or ACT Prep (for juniors and seniors). We are Vanguard.

Contact details: www.vanguardschool.org

1-863-676-6091

hool.org | (863)676-6091

Eagle Hill School

Eagle Hill School is a private co-ed prep school exclusively for students with diverse learning profiles including ADHD and dyslexia. Located in Hardwick, Massachusetts, Eagle Hill specializes in an individualized learning approach to each student’s needs with academic and core enrichment programs supported by an environment of creative and demanding instruction.

242 Old Petersham Road, Hardwick, MA 01036 413.477.6000

EF Academy

EF Academy is a 21st-century American-Global boarding school that attracts diverse students from over 75 countries, including Bermuda! Our mission is to provide our students with a transformational education abroad, thorough preparation for university, and a future that knows no borders. By adopting some of the best practices of traditional boarding schools, including vibrant community life in co-curricular clubs, and then immersing our students in collaborative multicultural environments in two ideal locations for academic enrichment and personal development, we have built a whole new kind of boarding school. EF helps students become confident, independent global citizens. IB Diploma Program available.

582 Columbus Ave, Thornwood, NY 10594 914.495.6028

www.ef.edu

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VANGUARD SCHOOL
ntial Life Skills, Internships, and Dual Enrollment UARD!

Graduates

It’s no secret, 2020 has been a year for the record books! But it won’t stop us from celebrating the following graduates!

Congratulations and all the best as you enter the next exciting phase of your lives!

Daque Davis CedarBridge Academy Dee-Nae Hollis The Berkeley Institute Allura Correia-Cupidore Clearwater Middle School Danaaz Bell Elliott Primary Naziah Robinson The Berkeley Institute DeNash Davis Whitney Institute
FALL 2020 | 37
Jeynesis Daniels The Berkeley Institute Ethan Sousa Warwick Academy Hailey Wade CedarBridge Academy Makailah Nisbett CedarBridge Academy Ka’Ri Richards CBA/Bermuda College Kiera Trott Purvis Primary Maya Russell Bean Victor Scott Primary Unaiah Ball Whitney Institute Naphisa Smith Bermuda College
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Jher’Z Burgess Prospect Preschool Olga
Moonlight

Do you think that September is the right time to send children back to school?

BERMUDA PARENTS Speak

At this moment I am for children going back to school in September. If the Government and the Minister of Education says certain things will be put in place, that puts me at ease a bit. But they have to make sure everyone adheres to the new rules that will be set. Everyone must be consistent and if they are not that’s when parents would start to question and worry.

It will be without a doubt more difficult dealing with the larger schools. If they work off of the summer day camp guidelines which seems to be working things might be a bit smoother. This all can change depending on our situation with the ongoing international flights and the potential positive cases coming from them.

I believe that regardless of when Government decides to reopen public schools on a permanent basis, parents will use their discretion. I personally made the decision in April/May that my child would be remaining at home for the duration of the school term. I was not comfortable with the state of the island as it pertained to Covid-19. Since which, the island has demonstrated a consistent reduction in cases throughout the phases. However, once the airport takes full flight, there’s no telling what can transpire. Government will continue to do as they see fit for the duration of 2020 and they’ve did an amazing job to date. I decided to send my daughter to a Government summer day camp and I feel very comfortable. They have been consistent in their efforts to minimize the spread. When September comes, depending on my level of comfort, I will determine what I deem best for my daughter. I would prefer to home school her indefinitely than to risk unnecessary exposure.

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PARENTING

With COVID changing the way we live our lives, it is expected to be a little anxious about sending our children back to school in September. With so much of the 2019/2020 school year being done remotely, I feel like getting back to our “new normal” as quickly as pos sible is important for the develop ment of our children. My daughter is starting P1 in September and I do believe that schools should open as scheduled on Sep 9th. Zarina coped well with remote learning and we made homeschooling work with the help of her awesome teachers at Lyceum Preschool! But as she enters a new chapter, I believe that in-school learning is vital especially at the P1 level. As a country, I think we have done well to control the spread of COVID and believe that with proper precau tions and remote availability for students/teachers with underlying health conditions, we can have an almost normal school year that gives our children the best hand on experience possible!

Pencil case

Highlighters

Ruler

Pencils

Pens

Erasers

Pencil crayons

Sharpener

Notebooks

Planner

Calculator

Scissors

Folders

Index cards

Post its Binders

Tissues

Paper

Glue sticks

Crayons

Printer

Lunch bag

All You Need Is Love & A Strong (Wi-Fi) Connection: LONG DISTANCE Bonding

Next year – it’s happening, and I cannot wait!

Not only do I marry and become wife to the best man I know and the one who always makes me laugh but I become a Bonus Mom/Stepmother and continued bestie to my fiancé’s daughter whom I love very much. Both are roles, I very much look forward to, and take very seriously.

Pre-COVID, I had the pleasure of visiting this beautiful island multiple times not only to bond with my partner and his loving family, but most importantly to bond with Liv.

During COVID with borders closed, this has obviously been impossible in person. Being in an LDR (Long Distance Relationship), while never easy, does come with its share of blessings. In the times when we are not together Liv has helped me

to get more creative and we have both learned how far and wide our imaginations can go. With my partner and my bonus daughter in Bermuda, this means more virtual playdates, events and conversations than anything else.

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PARENTING
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I thought I’d share some our favourite virtual play dates, tips and tools used, in hopes that if you find yourself farther away than you would like from your loved ones, during this crazy time – you can still stay connected, engaged and loved.

WhatsAp /Skype/

FB Video Call:

Our favourite and most common app to use for our video calls and virtual playdates is WhatsApp. We love WhatsApp because it’s free and the call quality is clear. We show loads of love all through our phone.

Birthdays & Celebrations:

It’s tough to be there for every special moment or celebration in a long distance relationship across borders. We ensure that we are a part of each other’s special moments, by video calling each other to join in on opening presents, cutting cakes, singing songs, etc.

Virtual Greeting Cards:

We also use online virtual cards that allow you to send a group video card or have multiple signatures on one card. Your loved ones won’t miss out on receiving a card from you ever.

Rave – Movie Nights Together:

Who doesn’t love movie time! I love this app, it’s my favourite for us to catch up on shows together and bond as a family. We can share a private room, so it’s only me and Liv and her Daddy. We can talk to each other while the video is playing in the background and send messages.

Use Your Imagination!

Liv and I love having a tea party. We put on different voices and accents and pretend to be high society ladies. Liv makes a delicious cup of e-tea, and of course I drink every drop! We also host talent shows, fashion shows and dance parties.

Here’s a spin on an old favourite…we also play hide and seek. We’re the best at this game! Liv takes the phone with her to hide somewhere in the house, and Daddy has to find us. We all take turns. It’s tons of fun!

Just Being Present:

Until it’s safe for us to see each other again, just being present is enough. I can’t have dinner with them in the flesh, but sometimes I can just be present at the dinner table, on the phone watching Liv as she munches away on something delicious that Chef Daddy made. Or other times it’s just being propped up on the pillow, chatting with her as she plays her favourite games on her tablet.

Planning for a Better Future:

All these things I enjoy. But my favourite is planning what we are going to do the next time we are blessed to see each other. We get out paper and pens and brainstorm all the great ideas we have.

Better days are coming…

Liv, Her Daddy and I know that better days are just around the corner and look forward to those days…but until then, we’ll continue to see each other, bond with each other and love each other, as much as we can - virtually. BPM

Bermuda Centre for Creative Learning

BCCL was created for children starting at age 6, who have learning differences and learn best in a non-traditional environment that facilitates each student’s individual learning style.

Prior to enrolling at BCCL, students are required to be assessed on island or away and have been diagnosed with learning differences, such as dyslexia, auditory processing disorder, ADHD and other language-based disorders.

BCCL is recognised as a private school by the Bermuda Ministry of Education.

41 Cedar House North Cedar Avenue

Hamilton, Bermuda HM 12

Telephone 1.441.824.1111

Email info@bccl.bm

Website www.bccl.bm

Charity #985

FALL 2020 | 41
PERSONALISED LEARNING
us
Contact
Bermuda Centre for Creative Learning

Blended…

Gisele Bundchen, Gabrielle Union, Matt Damon, and Jason Momoa. What do they have in common? If you answered: attractiveness, wealth, and fame, you’d be right. But did you know that all of them are stepparents?

According to smartstepfamilies.com, the Pew Research Centre’s 2011 and 2015 reports, stated that in the US, 13% of adults are stepparents; five years later these numbers have undoubtedly increased and in Bermuda, it is possible to presume there may be similar statistics.

The reality is that if you’re reading this, either you are or you probably know someone who is a member of a blended family. Given the prevalence nowadays, discussing blended families is an important part of the parenting narrative. To normalise the stepparent experience is not only beneficial, it’s necessary to have this community’s voice as part of the family and parenting conversation.

It is for this reason that I am grateful to Bermuda Parent Magazine for the opportunity to provide blended families with a platform to share their experiences, to recognise and celebrate the diversity of the family structure.

In the coming issues, I intend to provide insight and information for you on this subject and to write on topics that you wish to learn more about – so please do get in touch! Until I began my own blended family journey as a stepmom two years ago, I did not appreciate the dynamics, emotions and the various challenges that can be experienced. If you’re reading this as a stepparent and you feel overwhelmed, sad, angry,

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PARENTING
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frustrated or even content, I want to challenge you to appreciate where you are in your stepfamily journey and to not feel guilty for the emotions you may experience because your feelings are valid.

American Counselor, Tom Frydenger, once said, “becoming a blended family means mixing, mingling, scrambling, and sometimes muddling our way through delicate family issues, complicated relationships, and individual differences, hurts, and fears. But through it all, we are learning to love like a family.”

The blended family journey is not easy but what family journey doesn’t have its ups and downs? Wherever you find yourself, I am sure you are doing the best you can. You are not alone, and I am rooting for you.

Kimberley D. Caines-Best is a stepmom and the founder of StepMoms Bermuda, a group that was established to provide a community for stepmoms on Island. The mission of StepMoms Bermuda is to: Support, Teach, Empower and Purpose. For more information, to learn more or to chat about blended families, email stepmoms. bda@gmail.com. BPM

4th Floor Dallas Building, 7 Victoria St Tel: 295-4082 Fax: 295-5245 Email: info@islandnutrition.bm www.islandnutrition.bm

FALL 2020 | 43
The Onionpatch Academy Tel. 441.29-ONION (296-6466) • Fax. 441.236.5912 www.opacademy.bm • info@opacademy.bm Ages 3 months – 5 years • Open 7:30AM – 6PM
easy
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5 Tips

s an educator, making connections with your students and their families is one of the most important areas that you can dedicate your time to that will have a huge payoff.

1. Start Small: Newsletters are a great way to help families stay connected with their child’s school experience. Once you begin this form of communication, continue doing so throughout the school year. Parents appreciate having this information as it makes them feel included.

2. Ask Questions: Send surveys at the beginning of the year to learn more about your students and their families. Ask about their home life, pets,

siblings, nicknames, second languages spoken in the home, family schedule, who to include in e-mails, etc. Use this information to further your connection with them.

3. Call: Set aside time in the evenings so that each family receives a monthly call to share good news or just to check-in. You’ll strengthen your relationship and learn a lot more about your students during these five to ten-minute discussions. Always follow up with a parent who has expressed a concern. If need be, schedule a meeting with them.

4. Connect: Is there a student who is continually late to school and has a difficult time beginning their day? Sympathise with their situation, offer advice and support and set aside time to provide a warm and caring welcome every morning to that student. Reach out to learn more about what may be preventing them from arriving to school on time and ways that you can help.

5. Make Positive Changes: Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is the foundation for all positive learning and relationships and is paramount to student success. SEL focuses on how teachers and students learn how to be self and socially aware, manage their emotions, build relationships and learn how to make responsible decisions. Research more about SEL and advocate for your school to create a Social and Emotional Action Plan that supports all learners.

The Bermuda Centre for Creative Learning’s personalised learning approach focuses on developing a positive rapport with their students. Learn more about BCCL at www.bccl.bm BPM

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for Teachers to connect with Students and Their Families EDUCATION
BY BERMUDA CENTRE FOR CREATIVE LEARNING

Solutions to LEARNING DIFFERENTLY Virtual Summit seeking collaboration

K.I.M.’s List is an online Parent Directory providing a network of resources to parents with regard to Educational Resources, Recreational Activities, Products and Services, events and programs for our youth, which can be found in one location.

Our goal is to be Bermuda’s #1 Comprehensive Online Parent Resource.

During our recent research into education, we have encountered many parents in distress over issues dealing with their child learning differently. As a parent resource consultant, we have listened to their stories and as a result, decided to do extensive search and have found that not every student learn the same and often feel excluded. Parents are afraid of being labelled alongside their child with a Learning Difference.

We believe that the Solutions to Learning Differently Virtual Summit would not only inform our community but educate them. This initiative is critical and long overdue.

For further information, email Kim Caisey at kimslistbda@gmail.com.

Sponsored by Kim’s List

Our aim for this Virtual Summit is to:

• Remove the stigma attached by introducing parents to each other and creating a support system; helping them realise they are not alone.

• Providing caregivers with insights for early intervention so challenges can be detected early.

• Empowering our educators with knowledge, tools and resources to help teach students how they learn and get them assistance where needed. I.e. behaviour or clinical.

This conference will bring professionals, parents, caregivers and educators together to make a difference in a child’s life. Our hope is to provide awareness and education to all who attend and know there are solutions to Learning Differently.

K.I.M.’s List would like to partner with key stakeholders who are interested in investing in the Public School System.

We are inviting you to partner with our efforts and bringing to the table your expertise in this sector. Our dedication and influence will help make this a successful virtual summit for 2020 and we can create a sustainable educating system for our Parents, Caregivers and Educators. BPM

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EDUCATION

Have you ever witnessed a child in a store having a tantrum because they were told they cannot get something they want? Have you ever seen a child hitting another because they were denied a turn in a game, or because the other child was not sharing? Have you observed a child shouting, or throwing things, because they lost a game they were playing? These are common scenarios, and are often met with consequences that are not effective in addressing the behaviours.

Children experience difficult emotions just like adults. They are sometimes overcome with anger, sadness, or frustration. They get embarrassed, they worry, and have fears. They even encounter jealousy.

When children do not have the vocabulary to talk about their feelings, they may act out those feelings in inappropriate ways. As parents, it is our job to teach our children to understand and navigate their emotions. One way to do this is use mindfulness techniques. In the simplest terms, mindfulness is being aware of what is happening in the present moment. It is about noticing your thoughts, feelings, and emotions, and allowing them to come and go without judgment. Mindfulness teaches children to take a moment to pause, collect themselves and make better choices when their emotions are triggered. Behind every behaviour is a feeling. When children engage in a negative action, we should try

Managing Difficult Emotions With MINDFULNESS

46 | BERMUDA PARENT MAGAZINE
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to figure out the feeling behind it. Mindfulness practitioners discovered that emojis are a great tool to use for this. This is how to use them. Say a child throws a toy across the room and appears angry. Talk to them about this, and when doing so, show them a set of emojis. Ask them to point out the emoji they believe felt most like them when they threw the toy. Once they identify the emoji, tell them what their emotion was. Label it. Then discuss other ways they could have responded to the situation. Doing this allows your child to develop an emotional vocabulary. They learn to talk about their feelings.

Another way to develop this vocabulary is by discussing the feelings of characters in stories, or by talking about the emotional reactions of other people they come in contact with.

Mindfulness also helps children identify and understand how their body reacts physically when they are experiencing difficult emotions. They begin to notice that they cry when sad, get butterflies when nervous, or clench their fists when angry. Once they gain this awareness, they can identify emotions as they arise, use mindful breathing techniques to help calm their nervous system, and choose an appropriate response to whatever situation they are in.

This snake breathing exercise is one of many mindfulness techniques you can practice with your child:

• Sit in a comfortable position.

• Close your eyes and take a deep breath in through your nose.

• Breathe out through your mouth while saying the sound of the letter ‘s’.

• Continue this breathing pattern until you feel calm and grounded.

• When you are ready, open your eyes and notice how you feel.

If you want your child to experience the benefits of mindfulness, it is important for you to model the behaviors you expect from them. It is beneficial for you to adopt a mindfulness practice of your own. Taking a few minutes each day to do a mindful meditation with your child allows you to spend quality time together; teaches them a valuable skill they can use in all areas of their lives; and improves their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

With a consistent mindfulness practice, you will find that pausing and breathing becomes a natural response in challenging situations. This practice will help minimize the tantrum in the store, reduce the possibility of physical conflict with peers, and lessen the chance for emotional outbursts.

To schedule a mindfulness workshops for parents, students, teachers or corporate clients, contact Keisha Allen-Smith at targetlearning@live.com. BPM

FALL 2020 | 47
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4 Tips FOR

BALANCING

WORK & SCHOOL

Balancing the demands of work and home has gotten more complicated. Not only has the indefinite closure of schools thrust parents into the full-time role of ‘educator’ but when that will change is still unknown.

Like it or not, co-mingling our remote work-life and our children’s school life is becoming the ‘new norm’. And if we are honest, we have no choice but to rise to the occasion. For our families. And for ourselves.

So how do you deal with the added time management challenges and become more proficient at accommodating your children’s remote learning all while working from home?

Here are a few hacks that have worked for me in finding work-life balance and keeping everyone happy and on track. Although simple, they establish a structure that everyone had the opportunity to participate in creating and to own.

Apply these four strategies in the coming school year to help you rise to the occasion and deliver parental support that will make even the dreaded homework time easier while creating a more harmonious home for all.

1Provide a quiet place to study: Be creative in creating this space. Make sure it is free from distractions like, TV, video games or even other family members that may be involved in other non-homework activities. Ensure that you have all the required school supplies handy to avoid

48 | BERMUDA PARENT MAGAZINE
PARENTING
If juggling all your life balls was a hot mess pre-COVID-19, we can understand if you are overwhelmed and fraying at the ends as more is demanded of you now as a parent.
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WIN!

any wasted time. Consider having an area or container that stores all the pens, markers, paper and crayons they need as well as ample chargers to power up electronics.

2Create a Homework Routine: Become well versed on your kid’s activities, virtual or otherwise, including subjects for the school year. Pair this with a good understanding of your time commitment for work. Do you have a deadline coming up? Do you have to be involved in an unusual amount of virtual calls? Make sure you are clear, on a weekly basis, about what is ahead so you can make any time amendments and enlist adult supervision as needed. Post schedules in a visible area and consider sharing the schedule on the family chat to ensure it is also accessible electronically. Communicate these routines to your children and be very clear about the expectations required of them. When you adopt a weekly review and update system it is easy to make timely amendments to improve your homework system.

3

Teach your kids time management skills: I have always worked with my kids to help them come up with the best ways to manage their time and be more productive. This is a skill that will set them up to succeed in life. Together we created a school planner that included studying and homework. Make sure that any major projects and deadlines are incorporated. We use the school schedule as a guide, making sure to add extra time for any unusually challenging subject. This system works and helps parents that are already overwhelmed trying to do it all while working from home.

4Demonstrate that parental support of homework is a priority: Be present with the children during their homework but make it clear to them that you will not do their homework. You are merely a facilitator and supervisor. Avoid the urge to ‘help’ them to get the homework ‘over with’. If your child is young and having an issue, then send the teacher a note advising them of the area that your child struggled with. For older children, advise them to communicate directly with the teacher. It is their education, so allow them to participate and own it.

Navigating this ‘new norm’ takes intentionality and strategy. Homework time will always be the one thing that parents cringe at managing after a long and exhausting day at work, dinner to prepare, and pets to take care of. These hacks will help parents develop a less-hurried and proactive approach to homework to successfully navigate the remote routines and achieve a better work-life balance. BPM

W HAT I F YOU KNEW...

of an encouraging community that honors the individual, values learning diversity, and fosters personal and social growth? VISIT

Eagle Hill School is a premier college preparatory boarding school for students in grades 8–12 with diverse learning profiles such as ADHD and dyslexia; and is an authorized IB World school offering the IB Diploma Programme.

www.eaglehill.school Hardwick, Massachusetts 413-477-6000

FALL 2020 | 49
EAGLE HILL SCHOOL
OUR CAMPUS VIRTUALLY! Contact us for a personal tour.
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SIGNS

YOU KNOW YOU NEED A BREAK from Parenting

1 When you start calling your children by each other’s names—and they’re the opposite sex. I literally find myself pointing at times and saying: “Not you! The one standing beside you!”

2 When you cannot find your car keys, no matter where you swear you put them, and they end up being at the bottom of your bag.

3 When you include ketchup in your child’s meal and feel it satisfies the recommended daily dose of vegetables.

4 Can’t find the dishcloth? Look in the fridge, it’s always in there! On the second shelf. Don’t ask me why!

5 You pretend you have to use the bathroom simply so you can check your Whatsapp messages.

6 How many times a day does your child call you for something?! When you can give a definitive answer, you clearly need a vacation.

7 When you are more excited than your children that the first day of school has finally arrived!

8 Ever sit in the car for about 30 minutes around the corner from your house, just enjoying the peace? Guilty!!

9 When you hug your children goodbye and you are grinning from ear to ear, but you make sure they cannot see you.

10

When you hop in the car and find yourself singing to your teen’s favourite song that you told them earlier was horrible.

If you haven’t experienced at least five of these feelings, do not despair, you will. And that’s when you know you’re actually doing a fantastic job at parenting!

Our editor is the mom of a 19, 14, and 10-year-old who keep her happily insane on a daily! BPM

50 | BERMUDA PARENT MAGAZINE
10
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An Ocean of Opportunity.

Learning is an adventure. Finding our voices and the courage to use them is part of it. Instilling confidence by pushing boundaries, opening doors to new opportunities, trying things, exploring the world, taking the lead – that’s an underlying concept at Saltus that will strengthen students’ independence and belief in themselves. Self-confidence is the engine that will drive future success.

Discover the Saltus Difference. www.saltus.bm

Happy Birthday!

Olivia Darrell

August 3, Age 7

Happy Birthday Baby Girl!!

We pray that God keeps you and continues to protect you.

Arii Campbell

November 14

Age 7

Happy 7th birthday to my Putts, I wish my beautiful grandbaby a pretty spectacular day.

Love, Kisses and Smooches

From MeMe

W’nique Christopher

September 10

Age 8

Wishing you an ecstatic 8th chapter full of joy and adventure!

From Mom, Mahja and W’niy

Jayce Richardson

August 10

Age 3

Happy birthday Jayce!

With lots of love from Mommy & Daddy

Bryce Babb Davis

November 13

Age 4

Hear me ROAR, Guess who’s turning THE BIG FOUR.

Birthday Greetings to King Bryce!

Lots of love from your tribe

Love Daddy & Your StepMom, Mommy & Kenny

E’Rynn

October 5

Age 10

Happy 10th Birthday E’Rynn

Continue to shine bright like a diamond!

Love Mommy, Daddy & entire family

Elon’ Symonds

Sept 13 Age 10

On your 10th Birthday, my wish for you is that your dreams stay big and your worries stay small!

Kira Holdipp

September 3

Age 8

Happy birthday Kira!

With lots of love from Mom, Nana, Papa, Uncle and Ma Laine

Kymaree Pitt

September 28

Age 13

Love you Kymee! From Mommy

Kaius Smith

September 14

Age 3

Happy 3rd Birthday Kaius

With love from all of your friends and family

Na’Lah Payne

Age 12

July 28

Happy birthday Izyan!

Mommy, Daddy, Zyjae’, Jurnee and Giselle

Hayes Emery

November 22, Age 5

Happy Birthday to our loving, strong, smart little boy. Thanks for choosing us. Love you around the moon, Mommy & Daddy

Navaeh Grace Thomas

October 5

Age 8

Happy Birthday Princess!

You are fancy, beautiful, smart & loving love mommy, daddy, little bro and the rest of the family Keep shining!

Sienna Furbert

August 28

Age 14

Happy birthday Sienna!

With lots of love from Mommy & Stepdad

Trianno Smith

September 18

Age 10

Happy Birthday Tri Love Daddy, Keeva, Zy-Lái, C’aja and Láiyun

52 | BERMUDA
PARENT MAGAZINE
Xoxo Mommy
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