Wrap your newborn in comfort and protection so all he feels is
Wrap your baby in the blanket-like softness of Pampers Swaddlers. The wetness indicator lets you know when it might be time for a change. And for our best gentle clean, try Pampers Sensitive Wipes.
I want to thank all the parents who sent in a photo of their beautiful child for the Johnson’s Photo Contest. It was difficult picking a winner and some people suggested having a collage of photos on the cover. However, we couldn’t get them on the cover but you can visit page 67 to see all the entrants.
I want to thank Johnson’s, BGA, Phoenix Stores, Sarah E Photography, Heaven Sent Boutique (who provided the clothes for the cover photo) and last but not least ColourLab. A heartfelt thanks to all and I encourage our readers to support our Bermuda businesses especially those who support and make Bermuda Parent possible. Look out for more photo contest and sign up for our newsletter on our website! In this issue, there were a few articles that resonated with me. One of those is, Co-Sleeping is it Right (page , my family and I thoroughly enjoyed the benefits of co-sleeping but I think what is key is that every family needs to decide what is best for them and their unique dynamics. The other article that resonated was Reading Skills to Help Children Comprehend Better (page 32). It is my belief that when a parent or care giver is able to understand just how children develop and specifically learn to read and comprehend what they read it can really assist us, as parents to know how to respond when we need to assist them. Dr. Outer bridge provides useful tips that we can utilize right away.
p. 32
I also wish to draw your attention to Carlsen Phillips, Digicel’s most recent Scholarship recipient. He is truly an extraordinary young man blazing a trail that other young people can aspire too and even more important is that he availed himself to give back to society.
Finally, it is the holiday season so be sure to read our Survival Guide to a Stress-Free Holiday (page 34) to avoid being stressed during the hustle and bustle of the season.
Happy Parenting!
PUBLISHER & EDITOR
Katrina Ball
BUSINESS CONSULTANT
Vic Ball
ADVERTISING SALES
Wanda Brown wanda@bermudaparent.bm
333-1925
Alicia Resnik sales@bermudaparent.bm
DESIGN & PRODUCTION Picante Creative
WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS
Alicia Resnik, Department of ECommerce, Lisa Lewis, Brenda Dale, Dr. Renee Simons, Digicel Group, Be Solar, Freisenburch Meyer Group
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sarah E Photography, Alicia Resnick
Bermuda Parent Magazine is published five 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.
CONTACT US
info@bermudaparent.bm
Tel: 504-2937
www.bermudaparent.bm
facebook.com/bdaparentmag
“I was shocked. I never had diabetes until my two pregnancies,” says Mrs. Isis Wellman who found out she had gestational diabetes after receiving the results of her blood glucose test when she was 26 weeks pregnant. “I thought why me? I’ve exercised my whole life, I’m not obese and my weight is average for my height.”
Once Mrs. Wellman was diagnosed, her obstetrician referred her to the Chronic Disease Management Centre at the Mid-Atlantic Wellness Institute. There a nurse regularly monitored her blood glucose levels throughout the remainder of her pregnancy. Mrs. Wellman was placed on a strict diet and encouraged to exercise. “This was a reality check for me. It helped me notice how bad I was eating – the sweets, the starches, skipping meals, eating late.”
Once their baby is born, most woman go back to their normal blood glucose levels. Unfortunately, sometimes the condition can return later in life as Type 2 diabetes, or during additional pregnancies. With Mrs. Wellman’s second pregnancy the gestational diabetes came back. This time monitoring her diet and exercising wasn’t enough. “I had to check myself three times a day. The diet didn’t work, it wasn’t controlling the diabetes so I had to go on insulin at night and at dinner to bring my sugar levels into balance.” With her second pregnancy Mrs. Wellman also found it more difficult to exercise. “I couldn’t really do much exercise because it hurt my back. I’m petite and my belly was very big and heavy.” Mrs. Wellman says she coped with these difficulties with the help of Mrs. Jane Hope, the Diabetes Clinical Manager at the Chronic Disease Management Centre. She says Mrs. Hope was a fantastic source of information and support. “It was hard. Everything you see in the grocery store has sugar – even fruit!” With the help of Mrs. Hope, a change in her diet, exercise and the support of her husband and friends, Mrs. Wellman says she was able to get her condition under control.
Although the gestational diabetes went away after her pregnancies, Mrs. Wellman says she still has to be careful about what she eats. “Going forward I know I could develop Type 2. There is diabetes on my mother’s side of the family. My grandmother developed it when she was older.”
Mrs. Wellman, the mother of Caiden who is 4 and Camilla who is 19 months old, shares her story in the hopes of bringing awareness to the importance of understanding and treating this condition. “Gestational diabetes can be
BY ALICIA RESNIK
dangerous - to me and my baby. It was a reality check and going through the process was hard.”
The American Diabetes Association defines gestational diabetes as a condition that can develop during pregnancy. “Pregnant women who have never had diabetes before but who have high blood glucose (sugar) levels during their pregnancy are said to have gestational diabetes.” The cause of this condition isn’t completely
known. Hormones from the placenta support the baby as it develops. These hormones also block the action of insulin in the mother. This blocking leads to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance makes it difficult for the mother’s body to use the insulin. Gestational diabetes begins when the body isn’t able to make and use all the insulin it needs for the pregnancy.
Like other types of diabetes, if left untreated gestational diabetes can affect the health of both the mother and the baby. Babies born to mothers with untreated diabetes are at a higher risk for low blood glucose levels at birth, breathing problems, childhood obesity and for developing Type 2 diabetes as adults.
Gestational diabetes usually has no symptoms. It’s important for pregnant women to see their doctor on a regular basis and have a glucose-screening test between 24 and 28 weeks, or as recommended by your doctor.
If you’re concerned that you may have gestational diabetes, or would like further information about the condition, speak with your Doctor. Information is also available by contacting the Chronic Disease Management Centre at 239-2027 or the Bermuda Diabetes Association at 297-8427.
Looking for a Maternity Photo Shoot at an Affordable price? Look no further. We can help you!
Do you have questions on Breastfeeding, Foods to Eat,Caring for your Preemie? We can assist.
We now have plus size Maternity ware. Fall and Winter is in.
Benen Riordan
October 4
Happy 1st birthday to our wonderful little man! Lots of love from Mummy & Daddy”.
Andrew Fox
November 22
“Hey, look who just won the “World’s Greatest 6 Year Old” Award — it’s last year’s winner of the “World’s Greatest 5 Year Old” Award. You. Happy 6th birthday!” Love always: Mom, Daddy, sister and brothers.
Anya Burns
September 7
Happy 3rd Birthday to our Princess Anya. We Love you! Love Mom, Dad and your siblings.
Aiden Gernant
November 22
Happy 2nd Birthday Aiden! You’re such a joy. Love, Mommy, Daddy and Bailey.
Camila Wellman
October 28
Happy 2nd Birthday Camila! May God continue to bless you sweet angel! We love you; Daddy, mommy & brother Caiden
Carys Locke
October 1
Happy 2nd Birthday Carys! All our love, Mommy and Daddy.
Layla Lambert
September 15
Happy Birthday Princess
Layla! We love you!!! From Mommy, Papa, ReRe, Sawa, Uncle Jay and Shun!
November 11
Happy 9th Birthday Celine!
Oceans of Love, Momma and Violet xoxo
Kenji Lima
September 9
Happy 1st Birthday Kenji! May God continue to bless and keep you safe. We love you so much! Love, Daddy, Mama, Gor Gor Ryu, and all your family and friends from around the world.
Noah Smith
September 24
Happy First Birthday to our little Prince Noah Smith!!
Mackenzie Heaney
September 7
Her smile lights up our hearts and she fills us with all the joys in the world. Can’t tell you how much we love and cherish you. Happy Birthday our little princess. Stay sweet sensitive and happy. Enjoy your day. All our love Mam Dad Scottie Nan and Grampa. Xxx
RJ Lightbourne
December 28
Happy 9th Birthday RJ! Lots of Love from Mommy!
Zepporah & Zebediah Burchall
November 3 & January 16
Happy Birthday Zebediah and Zepporah. Love forever, Mummy, Daddy Warren, Nanny, and Aunt Pam
Milena Millett
November 9
Happy 4th Birthday to our little rock star... we love you to the moon and back! xo
Mummy, Daddy & Caiden
Nevaeh Smith
November 2
Happy Birthday 8th Nevaeh Love Always, Daddy, Mommy, & Marley.
London-Adam Eversley
December 25
Happy Birthday LA! No better gift to receive on such a special day. All our Love – to the moon, Mummy & Daddy xx from your loving family.
Shadyn
November 15 & September 9
Happy 6th Birthday to our Shadyn, we love you so much and can’t believe how fast the years are flying by. You are such an amazing big boy and big brother, we are so proud of you. Keep being the good boy that you are.
Happy 1st Birthday to our pretty pretty princess, what an amazing and beautiful angel you are. We can’t believe its been a year already since we first held you in our arms. We will love you forever and always, thank you for all the smiles and giggles. Love always and forever Daddy & Mommy Xoxo
Butterfield Select Invest Fund offers you a selection of professionally managed portfolios that range from conservative to dynamic—helping you define and choose the education strategy that’s right for you, right now. The Select Invest Fund is a highly diversified, and very flexible long-term investment vehicle that helps ensure that your money is working for you.
Select Invest Fund—Five Portfolios, One Education Objective: Yours.
For more information, please contact us at 299 3817, stop by our Investment Centre, or visit our website.
www.butterfieldgroup.com
Our SMALLER CLASS SIZES encourage INTERACTIVE LEARNING with a focus on INDIVIDUAL LEARNING NEEDS. MSA delivers an internationally recognized curriculum that promotes critical thinking and problem solving while cultivating PARENTS AS PARTNERS in education and encouraging a WELL-ROUNDED LEARNER. Our collaborative and interactive approach ensures each student will grow from learning locally to excelling globally.
The combination of MSA’s world class curriculum, daily infusion of Catholic values and the expertise of our dedicated faculty and staff ensures that your child receives the most comlpete education available in Bermuda.
THE BEST WAY TO SEE our school is to stop by and observe students learning. Call us today to find out more information or to schedule a meeting at 292-4134.
BHS
The Bermuda High School is dedicated to supporting and guiding how girls learn.
We provide a supportive and nurturing environment that empowers girls to take centre stage, to express themselves, and to take positive and healthy risks. This allows them to become confident, responsible and resilient young women ready to face today’s rapidly changing world.
here babies sleep is controversial in Western industrialized societies because of the emphasis placed on independence and self-sufficiency, even for babies. However, there is no science supporting the ideology that babies and children must sleep alone in order to develop into confident, emotionally healthy, and independent adults. Cultural attitudes have changed, but an infant’s need for close contact with mother’s body and milk has not.
Babies sleeping in proximity to caregivers are continuously reminded of their presence through touches, smell, movement, warmth, and taste (through increased breastfeeding).
These sensations provide emotional security for the baby. Babies who co-sleep are less likely to cry themselves to sleep, or even to cry at all.
A nocturnal connection exists
between a baby and parent as evidenced by researchers tracking physiological changes in both sleepers and viewing their nighttime movements. Cosleeping mothers and babies exchange sensory experiences throughout the night, such as body heat and breathing patterns, which serve to regulate the baby’s physical state.
Babies who sleep with their mothers and breastfeed spend less time in deep stages of sleep. Light sleep is thought to be physiologically more appropriate for young infants, and more conducive to safe sleep, because it is easier for the baby to awaken during dangerous apneas (episodes where breathing stops).
The choice to co-sleep tends to promote a longer, more restful night’s sleep for both babies and parents. This is especially true if the mother is breastfeeding; often a co-sleeping mother
is barely awakened when the baby is hungry and needs to be latched on. There are many ways of co-sleeping. Some mothers keep their babies in bed with them all the time. Other mothers set up the crib or bassinet in the parent’s room and bring the baby into bed when they wake. And, other mothers sleep with their babies on a mattress in the baby’s room.
As babies grow and change their sleep patterns, families often respond by changing sleeping spaces. The only right choice is what works to give the whole family as much rest as possible. Regardless of whether or not you sleep on the same surface, or in the same room, with your baby, remember that no one knows your baby better than you, and no one can anticipate and respond to the immediate needs of your baby as well as you.
• Parents should not sleep with their babies if they are smokers or have ingested alcohol or drugs, or medications that cause drowsiness.
• Co-sleep only on firm surfaces, not on couches, recliners, armchairs, or waterbeds.
• Bedding should be tight fitting to the mattress.
• The mattress should be tight fitting to the headboard of the bed.
• There should not be any loose pillows or soft blankets near the baby’s face.
• There should not be any space between the bed and adjoining wall where the baby could roll and become trapped.
• Avoid dressing baby too warmly. Remember close physical contact increases body temperature.
• Longer breastfeeding sessions: Longer feeds ensure that baby receives
enough daily calories for adequate nutrition and weight gain.
• Increased safety: Breastfeeding babies are constantly monitored throughout the night, and tend to be placed on their backs, with their noses and mouths unobstructed.
• Lower stress levels: When babies do not have to cry to have their needs met, they are able to stay calmer and more content.
• Temperature regulation: Babies are warmer when sleeping next to their moms, and mother can sense when baby is too cold or too hot.
• Increased sensitivity to mother’s communication: Mothers and babies who routinely sleep together have an enhanced sensitivity to each other’s smells, movements, and touches.
• Greater milk supply: Breastfeeding on demand throughout the night helps mothers establish and maintain their supply.
• Enhanced attachment and parental fulfillment: Especially for working moms, increased time with baby during the night enhances attachment and feelings of fulfillment as a parent.
• Increased sleep duration for mother: Studies have demonstrated that co-sleeping moms have more sleep and evaluate their sleep more positively than those sleeping separate from their infants.
• Lower stress levels: Nocturnal breastfeeds increase mother’s production of oxytocin, a hormone contributing to a sense of calm and well-being.
Above adapted from Sleeping with Your Baby: A Parent’s Guide to Co-sleeping by Dr. James McKenna, director of the University of Notre Dame’s Mother-Baby Behavioral Sleep Laboratory.
One of the most challenging aspects of having a baby is the disruption to parents’ normal sleep routine. Since each baby is an individual with her own temperament and each family has a varied lifestyle, there cannot be one right way to get a baby to sleep, only a right attitude about sleep. Try to develop a nighttime parenting style that fits your family’s unique needs.
Daytime parenting cannot be separated from nighttime parenting – babies need to be parented to sleep, not just put to sleep. Be cautious of sleep training techniques which advise leaving your baby to cry it out or to cry alone for increasing periods of time.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine conducted a review of current sleep training studies and concluded the research is inadequate to determine the lasting effects of controlled crying methods on children’s “mood, behavior, and development.” We do not know the long-term impact of controlled crying on the developing child’s view of sleep, of being alone, or of her parents’ ability and desire to meet her needs. We do not know how sleep training affects personality and emotional development. It’s difficult to imagine how forcing a child to sleep alone can help her develop positive sleep associations.
Controlled crying techniques are designed for the narrow purpose of getting babies or children to fall asleep without parental soothing. This method does not teach babies how to fall asleep on their own. And, it does not address the many possible causes of night wakings and bedtime battles, such as separation anxiety, nighttime fears/nightmares, or daytime stress.
Babies need parental help in regulating their emotions. When you respond to your baby’s cries, you help her understand that when she is upset, she is able to calm down. You also benefit from being a responsive parent by gaining confidence that you can satisfy your baby’s needs.
Pediatrician William Sears claims, “Babies who are ‘trained’ not to express their needs may appear to be docile, compliant or ‘good’ babies. Yet, these babies could be depressed babies who are shutting down the expression of their needs.” To many parents, letting their baby cry alone simply does not feel right. Don’t be afraid to trust your instincts. You know your baby better than any sleep expert.
Elizabeth Pantley’s The No-Cry Sleep Solution helps parents understand their baby’s sleep patterns and set realistic goals, and offers a variety of sleep solutions that fit different parenting styles. Dr. William Sears’ The Baby Sleep Book and Nighttime Parenting teach parents how to match the nighttime temperament of their babies to their own lifestyles. These books are available to you through La Leche League of Bermuda’s lending library.
• Babies enter sleep through a period of light sleep (REM sleep), while adults enter deep sleep more quickly.
• Sleep cycles are shorter for babies than adults, with more light sleep than deep sleep.
• Babies have more vulnerable periods for night waking than adults; babies have difficulty going back to sleep.
• The medical definition of “sleeping through the night” is a five-hour stretch.
• Babies usually awaken two or three times a night from birth to 6 months, once or twice from 6 months to a year, and may awaken once a night from one to two years. However, babies’ night wakings and parents’ perceptions of what constitutes a sleep “problem” vary widely, so average and normal amounts of night waking are difficult to define.
• Babies’ sleep habits are determined more by individual temperaments than parents’ nighttime abilities. It’s not your fault your baby wakes up.
• You cannot force sleep upon a baby. Creating a secure environment that allows sleep to overtake baby is the best way to create long-term healthy sleep attitudes. The frequentwaking stage will not last forever!
Above adapted from The Baby Book by Dr. William Sears. If you have any questions or need assistance with breastfeeding, please contact La Leche League of Bermuda at islandgirl@northrock.bm
Buying second-hand children’s products is an affordable way to equip a nursery. But it can also be dangerous as some items can be out of date and no longer safe.
Some children’s products, especially cribs and bassinets have caused deaths and have been the subject of numerous recalls.
Check our website, www.ca.gov.bm before you purchase any children’s products second-hand.
441-297-7627
consumers@gov.bm
www.ca.gov.bm
If you are experiencing discomfort or you have concerns about , contact us. We’ve been mothers for almost three decades.
should be comfortable.
Since 1998 Bermuda’s premier faith-based early learners’ program “where happy children learn for a brighter future”.
Rather an erupting volcano experiment or a Minnie Mouse birthday party. We care about every aspect of your child’s school day within a safe social environment.
Happy Moments Nursery & Preschool is a keen on providing our students with lots of fun-filled explorative learning experiences.
We believe in our students, assist in fulfilling each parent’s dream for their child and inspire each child in reaching their fullest potential
Curriculum encourages academic excellence, creative teaching methods for each child’s unique learning style.
We offer Spanish, computer, and monthly field trips to: BNG, BUEI, Dolphin Quest and more. Teachers certified in ECE, CPR and First Aid.
Washington Mall, Hamilton Open 9 to 5:30 Phone: 292-1080
Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. happymoments123@yahoo.com or 737-8385. Accepting applications for 2015/2016 Ages 18 months – 5 years of age.
Adventureland Nursery & Preschool
45 Middle Road
Warwick, WK05
Tel: 238-0208 or 238-8032
Email: info@adventureland.bm
Website: www.adventureland.bm
Aerie’s Adventures Nursery & Preschool
121 Middle Road
Devonshire, DV FL03
Tel: 799-1504
Aneesah’s Nursery & Preschool
76 Robert’s Avenue
Devonshire HM15
Tel: 293-2731
Bermuda High School for Girls Early Years Program
19 Richmond Road
Pembroke HM 08
Email: info@bhs.bm
Website: www.bhs.bm
Tel: 295-6153
Bermuda Montessori School
23 Rosemont Avenue
Pembroke, HM08
Tel: 292-7209
Email: bermudamontessori@northrock.bm
Bloomfield
11 Manse Road
Paget, PB02
Tel: 232-4047
Blossoming Tots
1 Watlington Road
East Devonshire DV06
Tel: 232-4109
Bright Beginnings Nursery & Preschool
53 South Road
Smith’s FL06
Tel: 238-5160
Building Blocks Academy
Citadel Building, 10 North Street
Hamilton, HM11
Tel: 295-4222
Busy Buddies
Ebenezer Methodist Church
7 York Street, St. George’s GE05
Tel: 734-1499
Chatter Tots
37 Cedar Hill
Warwick, WK05
Tel: 232-4542
Chatterbox Preschool
10 Church Road, Southampton, SN02
Tel: 236-7190
Cornerstone Daycare & Preschool
62 Roberts Avenue, Devonshire, DV01
Tel: 292-7191
First Friends Nursery & Preschool
38 Lightbourne Lane
Smith’s FL 02
Tel: 236-3399
Email: info@firstfriendsschool.com
Website: www.firstfriendsschool.com
First Church of God Community
Nursery & Preschool
1 First Church Lane
North Shore, East
Pembroke, HM14
Tel: 295-6785
First Fruits Daycare & Preschool
66 Scott’s Hill Road
Sandy’s, MA04
Tel: 234-1887
Email: children@northrock.bm
Flying Start Nursery School
Brunswick Street
Hamilton, HM10
Tel: 296-9818
Email: flyingstart@logic.bm
Gwen’s Wonderland Nursery & Preschool
#12 Radnor Road
Hamilton Parish, CR01
Tel: 293-0947
Happy Moments Nursery & Preschool
69 North Shore Road
Hamilton Parish, CR01
Tel: 737-8385
Happy Valley Childcare Centre
#17 Happy Valley Road
Pembroke, HM19
Tel: 295-4087
Heavenly Blessings Nursery
43 King Street
Hamilton, HM19
Tel: 734-5500
Email: heavenlyblessingsnursery@gmail.com
Heritage Nursery & Preschool
59 Dundonald Street
Hamilton, HM10
Tel: 292-4681
Kiddie Academy
7 Laffan Street
Hamilton, HM09
Tel: 292-4124
Little Blessings Nursery
93 Spice Hill Road
Warwick, WK03
Tel: 236-1799
Little Lamb Nursery & Learning Center
10 King’s Court
Hamilton, HM19
Tel: 292-5125
Little Learners Nursery & Preschool
18 Woodlands Road
Pembroke, HM07
Tel: 292-8326
Little Sprouts
115 Middle Road, Warwick PG01
Tel: 236-7217
Email: Littlesproutsbda@gmail.com
Mount Saint Agnes Academy
Early Learning Program & Kindergarten
19 Dundonald Street West
Hamilton HM09
Tel: 292-4134
Email: msaoffice@msa.bm
Website: www.msa.bm
Nu-Hope Nursery & Daycare
33 Green Acres Road
Devonshire, DV08
Tel: 236-1625
Once Upon a Time Nursery School
41 Church Street
Hamilton, HM12
Tel: 295-7713
Onion Patch Academy
St. Paul A.M.E
59 Court Street
Hamilton HM12
Tel: 296-6466
Saltus Grammar School
Foundation Year
108 St. John’s Road
Pembroke, HM09
Tel: 292-6177
Seasons Learning Centre
14 Dundonald Street
Hamilton, HM10
Tel: 297-8383
Somersfield Academy
Children’s House Montessori
Programme
107 Middle Road
Devonshire DV06
Tel: 236-9797
Email: info@somersfield.bm
Website: www.somersfield.bm
Simons Nursery
13 Twin Lanes
Pembroke, HM09
Tel: 292-3948
Stepping Stones Nursery & Preschool
5 Middle Road
Devonshire, HM20
Tel: 293-8031
Sweet Pea Nursery
57 Middle Road
Paget, PG02
Tel: 232-7217
Email: sweetpeabda@gmail.com
Teeter Tots Nursery
Astwood Hall
49 Church Street
Hamilton, HM12
Tel: 295-6387
Fax: 293-6335
Email: teetertots@northrock.bm
The New Sunbeam Nursery
14 Battery Road
St. George’s, DD02
Tel: 297-2377
The School House Nursery
14 Brighton Hill Road
Devonshire, DV06
Tel: 236-2830
Tree Tops Preschool Limited
133 South Road
Paget, PG05
Tel: 236-9281
Tree Tops Preschool II
St. Anne’s Church Hall
26 Church Road
Southampton, SN01
Tel: 238-6025
Email: theoatleys@northrock.bm
Web: www.treetopsII.bm
Warwick Academy
Reception Year
117 Middle Road
Warwick, WK PG01
Tel: 239-9460
To be eligible for preschool, the student must be 4 years old between January 1st and December 31st. The student must also be resident in that zone.
Lagoon Park Preschool
18 Craddock Road
Sandy’s, MA03
Tel: 234-2488
Southampton Preschool
5 Middle Road
Southampton, SB02
Tel: 234-0642
Warwick Preschool
68 Middle Road
Warwick, WK03
Tel: 236-1754
St.Paul’s Preschool
69 Middle Road
Paget, PG05
Tel: 236-9515
St. John’s Preschool
1 Marsh Folly Road
Pembroke, HM1
Tel: 292-3485
Prospect Preschool
6 Old Military Road
Devonshire, DV02
Tel: 292-0543
Devonshire Preschool
4 Corkscrew Hill
Devonshire, HM19
Tel: 292-2965
Lyceum Preschool
191 North Shore Road
Hamilton, CR03
Tel: 293-2365
St. David’s Preschool
39 Battery Road
St. David’s DD02
Tel: 297-0035
St. George’s Preschool
1 Old Military Road
St. George’s GE03
Tel: 297-1510
“Inspiring
To
122 Middle Road, Warwick (next
Monday - Thursday 9am - 6pm
Friday & Saturday 9am - 7pm Tel: 732-7921
St. Anne’s Church Hall, 26 Church Road, Southampton, SN 01 Phone 238-6025
Open All Year Round 7.30am - 6.00pm Monday to Friday
Accepting students from 2-5 years old Website
Our mission is to prepare your child for Primary School and the exciting educational journey they are just beginning. Our aim is to provide a positive learning environment where your child can meet their full potential and grow to become a confident, well rounded little person ready to meet all the challenges that will come their way. The high standards of our academic curriculum alongside lots of fun arts and crafts, daily music and movement, story telling and plenty of free play both inside and outside contribute to make Tree Tops II Preschool Ltd. one of Bermuda’s top preschools.
“We wanted to hold an event where kids all across Bermuda could participate and enjoy their time with their friends and family members. It’s especially rewarding to see kids participating and having fun irrespective of the circumstances facing their families in these challenging economic times,” Mr. Kip Froud, Tournament Director.
The Bermuda Anglers Club held their Annual Junior Fishing Tournament on Sunday, August 23rd. This event marked the 4th year the club has held this competition. Over 140 children signed up to participate with over 100 junior anglers weighing in their catches. Fish ranged in all types and sizes - from a “1 1/8 ounce” Grunt to a Wahoo weighing in at “42.5 pounds.”
Mr. Froud said he was pleased with the response to this year’s event. “I think the tournament went extremely well. The weather cooperated so we had over 100 children weigh in their catches. This tournament seems to be getting bigger each year. We hope it’s an event that brings families together to enjoy an outdoor activity and that they will look forward to it for years to come.”
The Bermuda Anglers Club began in 1938 with 7 members. Since then the club has grown, sponsoring various angling tournaments. The club encourages fishing as a great way for families to spend time together. They’d like everyone on the island to encourage this annual competition. Besides family time, the goal of the
Prize winners included:
Under 6 Boys Division:
Dahmony Hill - 8.5 lb Turbot
Sami Carolo – 3.0 lb Jack
Khwai Mendoza – 4 oz Yellow Jack
Under 6 Girls Division:
Peyton Hines – 23.5 lb Wahoo
Anaiya Bascome – 3.5 lb Porgy
Logan Flood – 1 3/8 oz Bream
Zimai Davis – 14 ¾ oz Bream
7 – 10 year old Boys Division:
Ethan Soares – 42.5 lb Wahoo
Zakee Doers – 3 lb Yellowtail Snapper
Jacob Batista – 13 ¾ oz Bream
Chrisian Warren – 13 ¾ oz Bream
7-10 year old Girls Division:
Emma Butterfield – 15 ¼ oz Jack
Christianna Warren – 8 oz Bream
Destiny Winters-Taite – 2 ¼ oz Yellowtail Grunt
11-16 year old Boys Division:
Kaleb Medeiros - 33 lb Wahoo
Tommy Marshall - 2.5 lb Turbot
Jacari Renfroe - 5.25 lb Grey Snapper
11-16 year old Girls Division:
Gaby Furr – 4.25 lb Cow Fish
Zahra Wilson – 2 ¾ oz Squirrelfish
event is to help children understand and respect Bermuda’s Fisheries Regulations.
Twenty-five prizes were up for grabs this year with a new category added by Logic who donated $500 for the school with the most entrants. Saltus Grammar School is this year’s winner. The money was donated to the school’s Physical Education program.
Entry to the Junior Fishing Tournament is free and open to boys and girls 16 years of age and under. This free entry is made partly possible by the successful funding of the Bermuda Anglers International Light Tackle Tournament - which will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in June 2016. The Junior Fishing Tournament was also made possible by the generous sponsorship of Logic, Butterfield & Vallis, C-Mart Ltd, Makin Waves and Fly Bridge Tackle.
An award ceremony was held on Aug 29th at the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club in Paget. Top winners of the day – Kaleb Medeiros, Jacari Renfroe and Gaby Furr, received the prize of a family fishing trip, on Bay Roots, donated by Captain Andrew Marshall.
115 Middle Road, Warwick PG01
Telephone: 236-7217
Email: Littlesproutsbda@gmail.com
Ages: 3 months – 4 years
Time: 7:45 am – 5:45 pm
Established in 1993
LOCATION
is proud to announce it’s NEW LOCATION
St. Mark’s Parish Hall
53 South Road, Smiths FL 06
Open year round Monday-Friday 7.45am-5.45pm
The newly renovated St. Mark’s Parish Hall is a perfect facility for our preschool children ages 2 -5 years old
Open House Tues 12th Jan 2016
9am - 11am and 3pm - 6pm
Tree Tops Preschool Ltd has been providing high standards of early education to Bermuda’s future generations for more than two decades. Our goal is to educate and inspire every child to fulfill their unique giftedness. We have a well rounded academic curriculum designed to encourage each child’s growth and development intellectually, physically, socially, linguistically and emotionally while supporting positive family values, self-confidence and good manners in readiness for Primary School.
For information please call 236-9281
Website www.treetopsbda.com
Potentially harmful pathogens, toxins and other contaminants in our drinking, bathing and waste water can produce symptoms & conditions that include urinary tract infections, intestinal cramps, inflammation, gastric problems, and they may also lead to plumbing blockages & pollution. Not fun! Play it safe. Take the first step. Test your water.
Reading is a complex skill that requires deriving meaning from print. The editors of the book, Helping Struggling Learners in the Elementary and Middle Grades, cited a paper by the International Reading Association which explained that when children engage in reading, they need to be able to perceive the sounds in spoken language (phonemes), connect those sounds to letters as well as use their knowledge of lettersound association to decode unfamiliar words. Also, they need to use a range of interconnected strategies to construct meaning from the words and sentences they read.
In Helping Struggling Learners in the Elementary and Middle Grades, the authors point out that children need early, consistent experiences that will enable them to develop their vocabulary, expand their background knowledge as well as easily apply their past experiences to their understanding of words when reading. According to David Sousa, in his book How the Brain Learns to Read, comprehension is a complex cognitive process that involves areas of the brain in an interactive process in which children are required to identify words, understand the meaning of words in the text, recognize the grammatical structures, draw inferences as well as self-monitor to make sure that what they are reading makes sense. Sousa states that as children master these skills, their reading comprehension improves significantly. The ultimate goal of reading is for children to be fluent to understand what they read. Additionally, children need to actively use strategies so that they can understand and retain the information that they have read.
1. Provide plenty of opportunity to read. The most valuable activity for developing children’s comprehension is reading itself.
2. Set a purpose and goal for reading.
3. Preview the book. Teach children to look over the cover and to scan the inside of the book.
4. Help children to predict. Let children think about what they already know and then make a guess about what they think the story is about based on the preview.
5. Develop children’s vocabulary. Read aloud to children. Explain the meaning of individual words. Help them develop their word-learning strategies by looking at the pictures and using clues in the sentences (context clues).
6. Talk about the book. Encourage children to talk about the book/story using rich vocabulary.
7. Build background knowledge. As children develop more background knowledge about a particular topic or subject, that knowledge gets organized in the brain and becomes accessible when needed.
8. Read Aloud. Let young children read the book/story aloud.
9. Increase Fluency. For younger children, greater fluency allows for reading to become a more automatic process. This frees up cognitive resources to concentrate on the story/passage as opposed to mechanically decoding each word in the passage.
10. Summarize the story. Help children re-tell the story but in a condensed form. This strategy helps with their understanding of the story as well as encourages retention.
1. Provide an opportunity for discussion. Introduce a new story, passage or topic with some discussion to capture interest and attention prior to reading the material.
2. Directional Questions. Ask questions at the beginning of the story, passage or text instead of the end so that your child can become a more directional reader.
3. Read Aloud. Reading out loud allows children to hear their own voices and can facilitate working memory.
4. Stop and Start Technique. Let your child read a story or passage out loud and every 30 seconds or so, say “stop” and ask questions about the story. Over time, lengthen the interval.
5. Re-read. Rereading helps to correct comprehension breakdowns.
6. Sequencing Tasks. Present words out of sequence and have your child arrange them to make a sentence. Next, present sentences out of sequence and let your child arrange them to make a paragraph. Lastly, present paragraphs out of sequence and have your child arrange them to make a story. This activity facilitates sequencing linguistic material.
7. Narrative Retelling. Ask your child to retell the story after reading it (aloud).
8. Multiple Exposure. Encourage your child to skim the material upon reading for the first time, with emphasis on chapter and text headings. Read for detail on the second exposure of the text.
9. Practice Terminology. Practice defining new terms and concepts prior to reading material with dense language. Vocabulary enrichment helps to improve comprehension.
10. Story Maps. This is a re-reading activity where graphic organizers are used to outline and organize information prior to reading the text. Graphic organizers are visual tools that look like a spider web with lines connecting a main idea to related ideas or events.
11. Active Participation: Encourage active reading by engaging your child in the habit of note-taking, highlighting, using sticky notes, putting asterisks, etc. next to important information in the text.
12. Concept Mapping. Children can extract ideas and terms from curriculum content and plotting them visually to show relationships among the information. e.g., K-W-L Maps illustrate the degree of new learning that will be needed. The “K” is for what children already know; “W” is for what they want to know; “L” is for what they have learned.
References:
Carraway, K. (2014). Transforming Your Teaching: Practical Classroom Strategies Informed by Cognitive Neuroscience. New York, N.Y.: W. W. Norton & Co.
Educational Research Service. (2004). Helping Struggling Learners in the Elementary and Middle Grades. Arlington, VA:Author
Feifer, G. S. & Della Toffalo, D. A. (2007). Integrating RTI with Cognitive Neuropsychology: A Scientific Approach to Reading. Middletown, MD: School Neuropsych Press.
Sousa, D. (2006). How the Brain Learns. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.
Sousa, D. (2005). How the Brain Learns to Read. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.
Do you dread the hustle and bustle of another holiday season? Between shopping, wrapping, baking, holiday cards, parties, and countless other obligations and tasks, just surviving the season can be quite a feat, let alone being in a frame of mind to enjoy the time with your family. So make a pact to eliminate stress this year by following these tips.
First, close your eyes and think back to the previous couple years and how hectic and stressful it felt. What percentage of holiday activities and tasks would you need to eliminate to make the season truly enjoyable and relatively stress-free? During this process, don’t think about what you can’t eliminate. Simply determine the percentage of reduction you need to make.
Next, make a list of everything you need to do during the holiday season, to which parties you’ll be invited, and how much money you’ll spend. Now cross off the least important, least necessary, and least desirable events and tasks. Then review the list, and roughly calculate how much time and expense you’ve shaved off. If you haven’t reached your predetermined reduction, go through your list again.
Once you’ve decided which parties you’ll attend and commitments you’ll make, plan specifically how you’ll say ‘no’ to all the others so you’re not caught off guard.
Ask for help. Enlist your family in preparing for the holidays and divvy up tasks. Don’t expect per-
BY KIMBERLY BLAKERfection from yourself or your family. Remember, you probably don’t notice or mind the imperfections in others’ holiday gatherings; they are just as unlikely to notice any in yours.
Keep in mind also, the holiday season isn’t the time to be head cook. Plan potluck gatherings, and either suggest what each person should bring or, to avoid duplicates, ask guests what they will bring.
Save time in gift-wrapping by setting up a station in a spare room or the basement, or stock a box or basket with wrapping paper, ribbon, bows, tags, tape, scissors, and pens so everything is stored in one place. Have extras of everything on hand.
Keep cleaning to a minimum during the holidays. Dismiss unused areas guests won’t see or use. Clean only the obvious in rooms that will be seen. That barely-visible layer of dust on your baseboards isn’t likely to be noticed with all the socializing and holiday decorations.
Keep everyday meals quick and simple through the season. Soups, sandwiches, fresh fruit and vegetables, cottage cheese, pre-cut vegetables and dip, and other prepared or semi-prepared healthy foods will suffice for one month of the year.
Do your holiday shopping early in the day on weekdays while your energy is high and crowds are small.
Shop online or by catalog. If an item lacks details, search for a manufacturer’s website to get the information you need.
Give gift certificates. Hard-to-shop-for recipients will appreciate something practical. Certificates to restaurants, department stores, sporting good outlets,
Get plenty of exercise such as a brisk walk in the fresh air, and set aside time for relaxation, like a long bubble bath.
and specialty shops, or for a massage, pedicure, or a round of golf make great gifts.
Don’t overdo the baking. Your guests will likely have had their fill of holiday treats long before your gathering arrives. Find other ways to show family, friends, or neighbors you care by visiting or phoning to wish them a happy holiday season.
Does your gift list grow each year? Decide with whom it’s necessary or important to exchange gifts. Then talk to extended family, friends, coworkers, and others about forgoing the gift exchange, putting a cap on the price, or doing a drawing instead. You’ll likely learn they feel the same way.
Allow children to spend the day they open their gifts at home. It’s hardly fair and often stressful for children to leave their gifts behind that they’ve waited so patiently to open. In turn, this causes stress for parents. Plan family get-togethers either on Christmas Eve or on the weekends before or after the holiday. If there’s no way around it, have an early celebration with your kids the day or weekend before.
Traveling and holiday visiting is also stressful for young children because of changes in routine and unfamiliar faces. Have children help with packing before you leave, even if only for the day, to make sure their favorite toys aren’t left behind. A security blanket or stuffed animal will also reduce stress for your young child in strange surroundings. And don’t forget to leave yourself plenty of time for rest stops.
Don’t take children shopping during the holidays. Ask your partner or an older child to baby sit; trade
sitting with a neighbor or friend; or hire a babysitter. Not only will this reduce stress, it’ll likely cut your shopping time in half.
Enjoy holiday treats in moderation. High fat and sugary foods and the lack of healthy meals can lead to tiredness and stress. Keep goodies stored in the freezer where they’ll be less of a temptation. Have plenty of convenient, healthy snacks such as raw vegetables and nuts on hand. Prepare low-fat meals that won’t bog you down.
Pace yourself, and don’t try to do everything in one day.
Finally, give yourself a break. Get plenty of exercise such as a brisk walk in the fresh air, and set aside time for relaxation, like a long bubble bath.
Start your shopping early. Create a new tradition with a friend or family member, and set a monthly shopping date for the upcoming year. By making a scheduled commitment, you’ll be more likely to follow through. Keep the early holiday shopping fun and choose a different town or shopping center for each trip focusing on unique malls or trendy towns.
Also, purchase a label printing software program early in the year and enter all of the addresses on your holiday card list. When the holidays roll around, you can print the labels and eliminate the most time consuming aspect of sending out holiday greetings.
Finally, remember the holiday season should be a joyful time for everyone to join in cheer and good fun with family and friends. Look for ways to ease stress to keep the ‘happy’ in your holidays!
Treat a friend, colleague or loved one to a relaxing treatment at Spa Oasis. We offer a variety of massages, facials, and nail services. Conveniently located in Hamilton and open every day 9AM – 7PM.
Contact us at 297-2347 or info@spaoasis.bm www.spaoasis.bm
#4 Front Street Tel: 295-5367
www.blucksbermuda.com
“Halcyon Days, hand painted English enamels. Ornaments, Pillbox and Cufflinks.”
Skin Care for Teens and Teen Acne Northshore Medical and Aesthetics Center 7 Northshore Road, Devonshire, DV01 293-5476
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8 King’s Square, St. George’s Email: info@surprise.bm Website: www.surprise.bm Telephone: 292-2638
By Sharon Donawa - Freisenbruch-Meyer Group
Mention retirement planning, and most people think about their pension plans or mutual funds. The association with the two comes about because the following is generally accepted, “if I keep saving, invest those savings wisely, get to age 65, I’ll be all set for retirement!”
Maybe! But what if things don’t work out as planned? What if you die prematurely? Or become disabled? What will happen to the people in your life? What about your spouse or partner, who may be depending on your retirement savings to help support them into old age? A retirement plan WITHOUT
insurance is just a plan to have unprotected savings and an investment program.
Thankfully there are three key ways life insurance can help you meet important retirement planning objectives. Prevent your retirement plans from dying when you do. If you
die before retirement, your survivors will miss out on your salary for living expenses and also the money you were setting aside for the future. Obviously people who die prematurely haven’t had as much time to put together an investment program that can really pay off. If you have sufficient life insurance, it can help pay your family’s expenses and even your spouse’s retirement.
Supplement your retirement income. Suppose your circumstances change and you no longer have anyone who would need the proceeds of a death benefit. With a permanent life insurance contract you have the flexibility to surrender the policy and supplement your retirement income with the funds that have accumulated in the policy’s cash value account.
Preserve your assets for your survivors. If for example, you have accumulated a large estate, then life insurance can help foot the estate-tax bill, preserving assets for your heirs. Or, if perhaps your estate is more modest, then life insurance can provide a legacy for your children (and grandchildren) even if you use up most of your assets during your retirement years.
“But.. what type of life insurance suits me???” you may ask.
This depends on a number of factors, including how long you need the coverage, how much you can afford, and how much flexibility you need.
Term Life Insurance is well suited to meeting high, short-term needs for a low initial cost. These policies are renewable after 10 or 20 years, with no need for proof of health. At renewal, the price increases as appropriate for your age. These increases can become substantial in later years. Coverage usually ends at age 75 or 85.
Term Life Insurance policies also provide the option to convert to permanent life insurance, with no proof of health. However, this convertibility often expires around age of 65 or 70.
Permanent life insurance As the name suggests, permanent life insurance can protect you and your family throughout your lifetime. It provides the same death benefits as all life insurance policies but also builds cash value.
The cash value consists of the guaranteed cash value, and the nonguaranteed cash value of dividends. Guaranteed cash values starts on the 2nd anniversary and dividends are credited after the first year. The total cash value, less any indebtedness, will be paid to you if you surrender the policy.
Dividends (your portion of the earnings) are determined using the current dividend scale, and are declared by the Board of Directors.
For more information on our Life Insurance options or to receive a c
Give the gift of tranquillity with a waterfall spa from Conair from The Phoenix Stores! The full bubble action soothes your soles, while its innovative waterfall massages the tops of your feet as it pampers your toes. Pumice stone, brush and soft-touch massage attachments add touch of luxury.
Leave it to The Phoenix Stores to offer an awesome selection of stocking stuffers such as rechargeable toothbrushes! The Pursonic model shown features a built in UV sanitiser designed to kill 99% of bacterium and germs on the brush heads.
The Phoenix Store has the perfect gift for the mom who already has everything – a Black & Decker Slow Cooker. Look out for great lasagnes, stews and other pot dishes for the entire family and guests with this one!
Each of The Phoenix Stores is loaded with practical gift ideas such as the Omron 7 Series Blood Pressure Monitor which delivers both precision and comfort. The model shown offers memory storage space for up to 60 readings as well as a blood pressure indicator guide.
1 | Conair True Glow Waterfall Foot Spa
2 | Pursonic Dual Handel Rechargeable Sonic Toothbrush
3 | Black & Decker 7-Quart Slow Cooker
4 | Omron 7 Series Blood Pressure Monitor
Gifts and stocking stuffers are endless at Brown & Co. Pop by to check out the colourful, crazy, cool and fun Yo Sox available for women and men. Plus, choose from a selection of fashionable rain boots for women.
The Bookmart at Brown & Co. has a great selection of artist’s colouring books and supplies – perfect gifts for the creative ones in your life. Each book features 31 designs where final illustrations can range from playful to intricately elegant.
Watch out this Christmas as The Grinch is looking mighty devious on all sorts of items at Brown & Co.! From LED stockings to mugs and travellers, you’ll find the perfect piece for The Grinch lover in your life.
The Elf on the Shelf is a beloved family tradition that has captured the hearts of children everywhere who have embraced the magic of adopting their very own scout elf. Pop by to explore the awesome collection of Elf on the Shelf products at Brown & Co. today.
This super-compact espresso maker delivers big, bold flavour using the latest brewing technology and is designed to brew a single, perfect cup at a time.
5 | Yo Sox & Rain Boots
6 | Artist’s Colouring Books
7 | The Grinch Who Stole Christmas
8 | Elf on the Shelf
9 | Nespresso Inissia
The Annex Toys certainly knows any girl will love to explore the Kingdom of Arendell – best friend in tow – via this deluxe Jeep Wrangler ride-on. An added bonus is the included stereo which plays songs from the movie!
Your child will enjoy dressing up and interacting with Bratz
Hello My Name Is Dolls –Jade, Yasmin, Cloe, Sasha and Meygan who are best-friendsfor-life and inspire each other to create the world around them. Each Bratz doll features a trendy outfit that is unique to her personality and can be found at The Annex Toys.
This two-wheeled Electronic Balance Scooter is lightweight, easy to ride and brings great fun to getting around – available at The Annex Toys.
Every minute in the air should be a good one and the Carrera remote control Micro Helicopter is the perfect aircraft for every situation. With 8.5 cm rotor blades, it’s small enough to be taken anywhere and loads of fun for all ages. Visit The Annex Toys to take off anytime, anywhere.
Electric-powered and race-tuned, your tween will slip into the steel go cart frame of the Razor Ground Force Drifter and instantly become the neighbourhood drift king! Visit The Annex Toys to explore a fine selection of Razor products that embody the spirit of freedom and fun today.
10 | Fisher-Price Frozen Jeep Wrangler
12 | Electronic Balance Scooter
13 | Carreira Micro Helicopter
15 | Canon Eos Rebel T6i
If you have a budding photographer on your hands, the Canon EOS Rebel T6i is a great first camera producing gorgeous, high-quality photos. The EOS Rebel T6i is another great gift idea available at P-Tech to help capture your holiday memories.
16 | Samsung Galaxy J100 So it’s that time of year when almost every kid adds “mobile phone” to their wish list. No worries, the Samsung J100 is the perfect entry level Android that won’t break the bank. Visit P-Tech for all things Samsung today.
17 | iHealth Glucometer P-Tech offers a fantastic selection of iHealth products to help you take a more active role in managing your health. The blood glucose meters shown offer a convenient way to measure and manage glucose levels via your mobile device.
Bermudian Kobe Richardson was the first of a second generation of Bermudians to graduate from St. Johnsbury Academy, in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. He is one of over 200 Bermudians to be educated at the school over the last 30 years.
During his four years at the Academy, Kobe made a reputation for himself as an academic and athletic standout as many other Bermudians have before him. Academically, Kobe found the course selection at the school to be very broad and appropriately challenging. Kobe is a strong math/science student and took many Advanced Placement classes in those areas. Kobe was also a three-season athlete, participating in cross-country running, indoor, and outdoor track. He began running competitively during his freshman year and has never looked back. He said, “I guess you could say I’m addicted to running.” He looks forward to continuing his running career in the future.
Kobe is enrolled in the Engineering program at Purdue University. Although he worked very hard to achieve this, Kobe attributes his success in part to St. Johnsbury Academy’s strong academics and support system.
& teens BY DR. RENEE SIMONS
The teenage years bring many challenges and changes. The biological and physical changes that go along with puberty, changes in body image and appearance, and changes related to how one thinks and feels. As teens seek greater independence, they pull away from their parents and get closer to their friends.
Emotional and social changes might include, increased romantic interests, the development of a deeper capacity for caring and sharing and for developing more intimate relationships. Some teens may feel a lot of sadness or depression, which can lead to poor grades at school, alcohol or drug use, unsafe sex, and other problems. Teens also change in the way they think and learn. Specifically, they may learn more defined work habits, show more concern about future school and work plans and be better able to give reasons for their own choices, including about what is right or wrong.
While many of these changes may be welcomed by parents, some may be unexpected and cause concern. Here is some advice on how to make those teen years as smooth as possible.
Communication – both talking and listening is necessary for a healthy connected relationship between you and your teenaged child. But parenting is hard work and maintaining a good connection with teens can be challenging, especially since parents are dealing with many other pressures. It is important to realize that your ability to parent depends on knowing what’s happening in your child’s life, and being able to influence him or her. That comes from the depth of communication you share. Deep communication is only possible if you find ways to talk about the hard stuff, so that he or she feels comfortable sharing with you.
Don’t get caught up in thinking that you have to have
“The Big Talk” about sex or drugs or one specific thing. Good communication means you and your teen talk about anything and everything, all the time. These hard conversations go on a little bit at a time for your child’s entire childhood, and evolve as they grow.
Tips on how to keep the lines of communication open between parent and teen:
Make Yourself Available:
Take note of when your teen is more likely to talk – for example, during dinner, after a good day at school, in the car - and be available. Start the conversation; it lets your teen know you care about what’s happening in their lives. Spend time each week for a one-on-one activity and avoid scheduling other activities during that time. Make your teen a priority. Learn about their interests — for example, favorite music and activities — and show interest in them. Initiate conversations by sharing what you have been thinking about instead of beginning a conversation with a question.
Let your teen know you’re listening:
If your child is talking about his or her concerns, stop whatever you are doing and listen. Express interest in what they are saying without being intrusive. Listen to their point of view, even if it’s difficult to hear. Let them complete their point before you respond. Repeat what you heard them say to ensure that you understand them correctly.
If your teen is telling you something that is difficult to hear, count to three before responding. Soften strong reactions; teens will tune you out if you appear angry or defensive. Express your opinion without putting down theirs; acknowledge that it’s okay to disagree. Try not to argue about who is right. Instead say, “I know you disagree with me, but this is what I think.” Focus on your child’s feelings rather than your own during your conversation.
Ask your children what they may want or need from you in a conversation, such as advice, simply listening, help in dealing with feelings or help solving a problem. Kids learn by imitating. Most often, they will follow your lead in how they deal with anger, solve problems and work through difficult feelings. Talk to your children — don’t lecture, criticize, threaten or say hurtful things. Teens learn best from experience. If the consequences are not dangerous, don’t feel like you have to step in. Keep in mind that kids will test you by sharing a small part of what is bothering them or talking hypothetically. Your reaction will determine whether or not they continue to talk to you. Listen carefully to what they say, encourage them to talk and they may share the rest of the story.
If you are having problems over an extended period of time, you might want to consider consulting with a mental health professional to find out how they can help.
References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (February 12, 2015). Teenagers – 15-17 Years of Age. Retrieved from: www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/childdevelopment/positiveparenting/adolescence2.html
American Psychological Association (No Date). Teens. Retrieved from: http://Aha! Parenting (No Date). Communicating with Your Child. Retrieved from: www.ahaparenting.com/parenting-tools/ communication
When surfing the Internet stay as anonymous as possible and keep all of your private information private.
Never give out personal details that would identify who you are, such as your name, address, phone number, school, names of family members.
Never give out credit and debit card information.
Keep your passwords private and change them often.
Never participate in cyber bullying and always report incidents of cyber bullying, bad behaviour and inappropriate use of mobile technology, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram etc.
Never reply to any messages or bulletin board items that are upsetting, suggestive, obscene or aggressive.
For a complete list of Internet Tips visit www.ca.gov.bm
Remember, colleges and businesses do online background checks and any bad behaviour or suspicious activities can be discovered. Your actions today may one day come back to haunt you.
A message from Consumer Affairs
GOVERNMENT OF BERMUDA Ministry of Home Affairs
“The inclusive SGS Boarding community is a model for the world on how we can live in peace and harmony with each other” Ofsted Outstanding Sept 2015
NO TUITION FEES
BOARDING FEES PER TERM: FULL BOARDING - £3575
YEAR 9 (13 yrs) & YEAR 12 (16 yrs) PLACES AVAILABLE FOR SEPTEMBER 2016
There is a real sense of family amongst the boarders across the age ranges and nationalities. A committed team of house-parents live in each boarding house providing a strong support network.
For further details on the school, curriculum and prospectus visit our website at www.sgs.uk.net or call +44 (0)1903 817601 to arrange a visit.
You’re concerned for your health.
We’re concerned for your water’s health.
point of entry & point of use water treatment systems
• design • consultation
• installation • service
• maintenance
• UV disinfection
• reverse osmosis • filtration
• bottleless water coolers
• fountains
• solar & wind powered desalination systems
• wastewater treatment systems
Every other year, the Department of E-Commerce undertakes a statistical research to capture the reach of technology throughout the different sectors of our community. That information is analysed in the State of ICT In Bermuda Report1
“Individuals and organisations alike use the report. We ourselves use the data as a benchmark in order to inform government policies and initiatives in that regard,” says Dr. Marisa Stones, Director of E-Commerce. The data is also useful to current employees in the technology field and to anyone who is thinking to embark on a career in ICT on the Island.
Below, you will see some graphics that synthesise the information garnered in 2014/15 report. Where appropriate, you will also see comparisons with the most recent survey, which was performed in 2012. Armed with the relevant data, you can make educated decisions about your career path and how you are to manage it.
Graphic 2. Less than half of Bermudabased companies offer formal IT training to staff. As a result, you would be well-advised to take it upon yourself to obtain the appropriate training and certifications that are needed by employers, and to keep those certifications up-to-date and your skills relevant.
Graphic 4. As companies grow to require staff that has specific knowledge about their own industry, they are more likely to provide them with the relevant training. You must therefore be prepared to continue to learn and adapt to your employer’s requirements.
companies do not have entry-level IT positions 94%
Graphic 1. When asked which IT skills they either seek or foresee a need for in the future, most companies responded: computer networking and support, IT support staff, basic computer literacy, and web development. The most common certifications mentioned were MS Office, a degree/diploma, CCNA, and MCSE/MCSA.
Graphic 3. Regarding ICT-related training offered to staff, the large majority of companies offer local in-person course training (38% vs. 26% in 2012). Online training is offered through both local providers (19% vs. 16% in 2012) and overseas providers (19% vs. 20% in 2012). Overseas training that was in person was reduced (12% vs. 20% in 2012).
Graphic 5. Entry-level ICT positions were not available with the large majority of the organisations surveyed for this report. One major take-away of this fact is that you should think about garnering experience while at school overseas: not just professionally, but also through internships, volunteering, hobbies, and entrepreneurial pursuits. In recent years, employers have reiterated that they value employees with overseas experience, so take heed as you make your plans.
Graphic 6. Most Bermuda-based companies do not outsource their services. Note, however, that the number of those who do outsource is increasing over time.
to actively engage in networking with industry professionals, but it is equally critical to ensure that students take the courses that will allow them to get into their chosen college and university programs,” says Aaron Smith, Chairman of the E-Commerce Advisory Board.
With that in mind, make the most of the existing opportunities and work to actively shape your career path. ICT is a passion as much as it is a vocation, and Bermuda is certainly the right place for it!
Graphic 7. As you develop in the ICT industry, stay cognizant of the fact that Bermuda-based companies still prefer to have their ICT needs fulfilled either internally (within their respective groups) and in Bermuda, or externally (by a company outside of their group) but still on the Island. This bodes well for the professionals and companies who, for instance, provide ICT services to organisations locally.
The above-listed statistics provide indications of current trends and patterns within the local ICT field. At the end of the day, you are encouraged to own your career planning and to use all the resources available to you in order to be in a good place professionally, starting with the high school and college classes which you select. “Students must take charge of researching their career interests. Not only is it important
•Only download content from a trusted source, and only with permission.
•Don't download attachments or click on links from a sender you don't know.
•Don't download attachments from a source you DO know – unless you were expecting it.
•Keep a clean and reliable backup.
For information on responsible use of technology, visit WWW.CYBERTIPS.BM
ending your child away to boarding school is a major family decision. Choosing the right school can be overwhelming. The academic environment you select should be specific to your child’s needs and your family’s educational values. When looking for the right fit, there are many important factors to consider. Angie and Derek Farquharson’s daughter, Dawn, attends the Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Virginia. Mrs. Farquharson says her daughter, who has been at boarding school for a year, “Absolutely loves it. The teachers, the advisors are so hospitable. It’s wonderful.” The Farquharsons looked at many schools, narrowing it down to 3 or 4 before deciding on Episcopal. They share what they felt was pertinent in their decision making process, and offer tips for parents who may be looking to send their son or daughter away to school.
n Academics is about more than just being in the classroom. “We wanted a school that provided academic links to the larger world,” said Mr. Farquharson. At Episcopal, their daughter is close to the Washington DC area and able to enjoy what the Capital city has to offer. In her third week of school, Mrs. Farquharson shared that their daughter was able to sit in on a Congressional debate about immigration reforms.
n Does the school have a strong endowment? A strong endowment is important to the physical functioning of a school. “Money can tell you
a lot about the school. It tells you if it’s established with history and heritage, and with alumni. It tells of the alumnus confidence in the school and of networking,” says Mr. Farquharson.
n Look at the ratio of boarders to non-boarders. The Farquharsons like that Episcopal High School is 100% boarding. They feel it provides a family atmosphere to the school. “Ninety-five percent of the faculty lives on campus. On any afternoon you can go and see teachers walking their dogs and playing with their kids. It’s a family affair,” says Mrs. Farquharson. She shared that Dawn was even able to take part in a dog walking club, which is something her daughter loves!
n The school’s student to teacher ratio is important. The Farquharsons like that their daughter is in an environment where the ratio of teachers to students is 11 to 1 in the classroom.
n Look at the school’s admission’s standards and matriculation. Find out what number of students who apply to the school are accepted. Does the school have academic admission standards that fit your educational values? Look at what colleges students matriculate to. “It tells a lot about the academics when the students matriculate to good institution of higher education,” says Mr. Farquharson.
Fourways Inn Restaurant is your perfect venue! We can accommodate group sizes ranging from 2 to the 100’s to celebrate any occasion such as intimate dinners, birthdays, baby showers, rehearsal dinners, weddings, anniversaries, corporate events, and cocktail parties. Fourways offers various private rooms indoors and outdoors such as the charming Peg Leg Bar with its own Patio, Palm Garden and Rose Garden.
n You’re entrusting your child to the school – “24-7.” Pay careful attention to campus safety and security. At Episcopal, the Farquharsons shared that their daughter has access to an on-campus infirmary, 24 hours a day with a doctor and 2 nurses. In addition, the campus is safe – with 24 hour security and a “sign-in” requirement.
n Mr. Farquharson advises parents to pay attention to the “frills.” What’s the school close to? They like that their daughter’s school is not isolated. Subway access is nearby Episcopal. Students are able to enjoy the school’s close proximity to the city, with its amenities, cultural and historical environment, while still being in a residential area.
n Living in Bermuda, families must take travel time into consideration. How easy is it to get to your child’s school? Is it one plane trip, or a trip with connections plus a long drive? The Farquharons are happy that Dawn’s school is only about 10-15 minutes from the airport.
n Does the school offer Learning Support? If your child requires it, it’s important to ensure that a support centre is available on campus.
n Look at the school’s structured environment. Mrs. Farquharson shared that at Episcopal, their
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daughter has an organized day that includes classes and activities. The students are required to be involved in a sport. There is also study time, dinner time and recreation time.
n For the Farquharson family, their decision “deal maker” was sports. Dawn is an athlete. She runs track and field. At Episcopal she has
access to both indoor and outdoor training facilities. The school’s top notch sporting facilities impressed the Farquharsons because Dawn can train year round. If your child excels in an activity – art, music, drama, baseball or tennis – ensure the school has the facilities to support this.
n Check teachers’ credentials. Talk to the admission office about what the school values in hiring their teachers.
n Ask about the school’s advising system. You will not be there on a daily basis so a strong advising relationship is important for both you and your child. Advisor’s typically meet with their advisees to help them with their academic schedule. They must understand your child’s goals and challenges. They know the school’s regulations, policies and expectations. Ask about your contact with the advisor. If possible, talk to parents of current students for an authentic picture of the care students and families can expect.
n Students live at boarding schools – the integration of their life is important. Their academic success cannot be separated from their social and extracurricular experience. Find out as much as possible about student life. If possible, speak with current students and ask what they like and don’t like.
Great family entertainment for all ages!
Launched in 2015, the Digicel Scholarship set out to aid in funding the education of aspiring telecommunications professionals. Created in an effort to provide the resources needed to Bermuda’s youth to reach their potential, the scholarship offered a Bermudian Student the opportunity to be awarded with $15,000 to put towards their higher education tuition feeds to pursue a Technology or Business related degree.
Digicel also made a commitment to providing continuous development of the recipient through internship programmes during academic breaks and potential job opportunities upon completion of their studies.
Following an extensive review from the scholarship committee, Carlsen Philip was chosen as the 2015 recipient of the Digicel Scholarship for the extraordinary personal and academic qualities he exhibited. After receiving a Bachelor of Economics Degree with a Minor in Mathematics, he was accepted to a Master’s Programme at Kent University, United Kingdom, which commenced in September 2015.
Following Philip’s undergraduate studies, he completed various internships in top companies including HSBC, PwC locally and PartnerRe internationally in France. Fluent in Spanish and French, he also dedicated his time to charitable and personal pursuits including teaching Spanish elementary students while studying abroad in Barcelona, acting as secretary of his Economics while studying at Howard University and being an avid salsa dancer.
Philip demonstrated academic success, community involvement, and passion for his education, careers and life goals. His personal ethos of dedication, pushing boundaries mirrored that of Digicel, along with his enthusiasm for community involvement.
Carlsen is currently living in Canterbury, United Kingdom, and keeps in regular contact with the Digicel ‘Family’. He has settled in well and is currently enrolled in three modules: Object Orientated Programming, System Architecture and Web Information Systems Development, alongside a wide variety of other international students from France, Vietnam, China and more.
He is enjoying his time outside of his studies and has gotten involved with in his university’s Salsa and Ju Jitsu society. Along with recently taking his first visit to London in two years to visit a family member.
Carlsen describes Canterbury as an idyllic town with a lot of history. While he admits it is a big adjustment to his alumni Howard University, he is happy to have the opportunity to experience another culture.
The Digicel Scholarship will be awarded on a yearly basis. Extraordinary students who are interested in a careers in Telecoms are encouraged to apply when applications reopen in 2016.
s parents today, we must think twice about what we pack for lunch, for our children and ourselves, as there is pressure to be much more health conscious. The Bermuda 2014 STEPS Survey recently revealed that 74.6% of Bermudians are overweight, with 34.4% being obese. With the knowledge that more than 30% of children and adolescents are overweight, and our children have a lifespan five years less than ours, we want to ensure that the lunches we pack provide energy, brain power and nutrition, not extra calories, additives and fats. Creating healthy lunches is one important way we can help our children develop healthier lifestyles and encourage and develop their desire for healthier foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats and whole grains.
We are most active during the day and therefore we must energize our bodies at noon to avoid the 2 p.m. energy crash. Homepacked lunches provide the opportunity to boost our vitamin, mineral, nutrients, healthy fat and fiber intake. Lunch should provide one-third of our daily intake of vitamins, minerals and calories. Nutritional guidelines all stress three key points:
1. Increasing the consumption of fruit and vegetables
2. Cutting out soda, sports and other sugared drinks
3. Reducing the consumption of processed foods. This requires parents to be more creative in preparing lunches to make every calorie count.
Here are eight tips to help you pack lunches with more punch:
Tip #1: Encourage crunching
Help your children taste the rainbow by using small cookie cutters to make vegetables and fruits more appealing. Children are very visual, and so getting younger children to use small cookie cutters to make shapes with their food is one way to encourage eating of a variety of fruits and vegetables. Raw carrots, celery, cauliflower, cucumber and broccoli with peanut butter, humus or applesauce for dips are often a hit. Over time you can consider adding unique raw vegetables such as snap peas, edamame, and orange or yellow pepper hearts, Some fruits like apples also are more appealing with dips. Another idea is to replace chips with crunchy apple slices.
Tip #2: Incorporate two servings of whole grains or bread
Whole grains are important for increasing our fiber intake. There are a variety of choices that can move us beyond the traditional sandwich such as brown or wild rice, quinoa, whole grain bread, whole grain or rice pita, tortillas or crackers and whole wheat pasta.
Tip #3: Include a lean protein
Tuna or salmon mixed with yogurt instead of mayonnaise on whole wheat crackers, pita, wraps or bread is nutritious, delicious and satisfying. Alternatively, you can roll up or shape slices of low-fat ham, chicken or turkey with cheese for variety. A hard-boiled egg or nuts and seeds can also be added.
Calcium is critical for bone development. Cheese, cottage cheese and yogurt in cups or drinks can easily be included in lunch boxes. Topping yogurt with fresh fruit and granola adds variety. A small thermos can accommodate a fruit smoothie or a combo peanut butter and banana smoothie – particularly desirable in the Bermuda summer heat!
Use whole-grain wraps or pita with low-fat peanut butter if your children are tiring of whole-grain bread. If you are looking for an alternative to peanut butter, consider the use of nutritious almond, hazelnut or soy spread. Replace the sugary grape and strawberry jellies with whole fruit preserves with low sugar content. Adding thin slices of whole fruit like banana or apple can add even more pizazz!
Fruit such as mandarin oranges, blueberries, strawberries, pineapple and mango pieces are satisfying alternatives for sweets. Also, dry cereals such as multigrain or chocolate Cheerios can also satisfy the sweet craving, with added nourishment. Mixing corn flakes and graham crackers with peanut butter and rolling them into balls makes for an interesting and nutritious snack too. If chocolate is desired, then a small piece of dark (not milk chocolate) can be a brain booster as it is rich in flavonoids that act as antioxidants and improve circulation. You can also create your own nutritious snack mix with raw almonds or walnuts and dried cherries, apricots, raisins or cranberries, which is an energy rich dessert. Fruit bars or homemade muffins, loaf slices, cookies or squares are also good choices.
Tip #7: GO for H2O
Research shows that we are consuming far too many calories in our drinks. We can make strides by reducing or eliminating soda, sports drinks, and sugary fruit juices and replacing it with water. Adding lemon lime or other fruit to water can add a little natural flavor and variety.
If you are pressed for time, you can choose pre-packaged cups of applesauce or fruit in light syrup, yogurt, dried fruit packs, whole grain snack bars and string cheese sticks.
New containers and thermal lunch boxes make it easier for us to move beyond the traditional sandwich lunch.
If your child prefers a hot lunch, you can easily use a small thermos with last night’s dinner left overs. A skewer and Tupperware container will accommodate skewers of cooked chicken with cheese, grape tomatoes, cucumber wedges and grapes to make lunch more interesting! So get creative…you will help your child develop healthy eating habits that can last a lifetime!
BF&M offers a free online wellness resource for our health insurance clients. Your company can work with BF&M to develop a wellness program tailored to your needs and interests.
Our easy to use online wellness platform includes:
• An individualized Wellbeing Activity Hub
• Fun and engaging wellness challenges
• A personal Wellness Assessment
• Healthy Habits programs
• Access to healthy lifestyle and chronic disease management programs and events
• Access to BF&M’s LiveWell Rewards Program… and much more! Visit www.bfm.bm and click on LiveWell, or contact us at livewell@bfm.bm
At BE Solar we often get great questions about solar energy and how it works. We are happy to share our feedback to help you better understand solar and what it can do for you.
Solar energy is free, abundant and sustainable. Bermuda receives plenty of solar energy, and you can easily harness Mother Nature’s daily resource of sunlight to provide power to your home or business
Solar technology can be split into two types; solar electricity (Photovoltaics or PV) and solar hot water (solar thermal). Solar electricity systems turn sunlight into electricity that
can power your electrical needs within your home or business. Solar hot water systems use the sunlight to heat water for your showers, baths, laundry and kitchen. Both of these solar technologies work very well in Bermuda.
Solar electricity is much cheaper than oil and gas produced electricity. The cost of electricity provided by a BE Solar PV system averages $0.12 cents per kWh. This rate is calculated by the sum of the total value of the installed solar system, divided by the warranted lifespan. The current electricity rate in Bermuda is as high as $0.42 cents per kWh (and as high as $0.49 cents last September). The bottom line is that BE Solar can provide a 70% savings with a solar system.
Solar is a proven technology and the highest quality PV panels come with a 30 year warranty. There’s not much you can buy today with a 30 year warranty. Solar has been proven
to last for many decades. We carry solar technology that has a track record of producing energy for over 30 years.
Solar systems are robust. BE Solar systems are designed, tested and installed to endure hurricane winds, salt spray, humidity, hail, rust and other forms of corrosion. Additionally, a well designed and installed roof mounting system will ensure your Bermuda roof remains leak free and will be able to withstand whatever nature throws at it.
You can eliminate your energy bills, with or without batteries. Most residential solar PV systems in Bermuda
are directly connected to the grid, and any extra electricity you produce can spin your meter in reverse. Depending on how much solar electricity you produce, and how much energy you use, you can reduce, eliminate, or even earn a credit on your Belco account. If you are interested in battery based systems we do offer bespoke storage solutions.
You can still paint and maintain your roof. Most BE Solar systems are designed to allow you to get a paint brush or roller beneath them. It is also easy to remove solar panels where needed to apply paint, and reinstall them afterwards.
Solar works even when it is cloudy or raining. Even on the worst days, your solar system will be producing electricity or hot water.
With BE Solar you can monitor your solar production, anytime, anywhere in the world. Dial in to your computer or smartphone and see how much your solar system is producing in real-time and over time.
BE Solar is Bermuda’s leading solar energy provider, and believe in developing a financially and environmentally sustainable future for Bermuda. We are proud to BE Solar, and we make going solar easy.
What can you do with all those over-ripe bananas?
ake muffins! Did you know muffins are actually a “hand held” version of quick-bread? They’re perfect for mornings when you’re rushing to get everyone out the door. Paired with a glass of milk or juice, a piece of fruit or yogurt and muffins make a quick, healthy breakfast. They’re simple to make –delicious to eat. Whip some up with the kids today!
This recipe makes 12 muffins.
2 cups of all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon of baking powder
1 egg – lightly beaten
¾ cup milk
2/3 cup of brown sugar
3 ounces of melted butter
2 over-ripe bananas – well mashed
Optional: ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Line a 12 cup muffin or cupcake pan with paper cupcake liners.
In a large bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. In a small bowl stir together the egg and milk. Add the melted butter and sugar. Add the mashed banana and stir well. Add the “wet” ingredients to the “dry” and stir until just combined. Do not overmix! Your batter should be slightly lumpy. It you’re adding in nuts or chocolate chips, fold these in now. Spoon the batter into your prepared pan.
Bake for 20-23 minutes – until the muffins have risen and are golden brown. Enjoy!
Muffins Tip – I can’t stress this enough, don’t over mix the batter. It’s tempting to do but, the batter should be stirred just until all the ingredients are combined. Over beating results in chewy muffins that don’t rise.
Use an ice-cream scoop for spooning the batter into the prepared pan. One full scoop per lined cupcake holder ensures your batter is evenly distributed and all the muffins bake at the same time.
Switch to an optimal temperature. Keep your fridge between 38-42°F and your freezer from 0-5°F. Also, clean the coils and leave a space behind your fridge so air can circulate.
Switch out your oven with the microwave to cook vegetables or warm up leftovers. Microwaves use up to 50% less energy than electric stoves!
Switch to an ENERGY STAR certified dehumidifier. They use up to 20% less energy than other models.
Switch off phantom power by plugging electronics into a power bar with a timer or auto shut off during periods of inactivity. You’ll save up to 20% of energy usage.
SAVE MONEY
SAVE MONEY
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON BY FOLLOWING THESE ENERGY TIPS!
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON BY FOLLOWING THESE ENERGY TIPS!
Switch to LED Christmas lights. They are difficult to break, last up to 20 years and use 1/3 of the energy of incandescent mini-lights, and 1/100 of traditional C7 or C9 lights.
No, I’m not Marty McFly, and I don’t have a time machine. But I have had numerous conversations with retirees who wish that they were 25 again so they can start saving (more) back then for their retirement now. So I ask Bermuda Parent Readers; if you could draw yourself a map today that would help you successfully navigate the financial hurdles that life is going to throw at you and your family over the next 20, 30, 40, 50+ years, would you follow it?
Dear 25 Year Old Me, Don’t worry - you’ve married the greatest guy. You’ll be a mother in five years to a wonderfully bright and inquisitive girl. At 34, your second child will be born three months premature, and you will spend six weeks by her side in hospital. But she’s a fighter, who will continue to amaze you six years later. You will have moved to the US, and back to Bermuda, and had a major career change at 39 to find a better work/ life balance.
You started an educational savings fund when your first daughter was born, and you’ll still be on track, 15 years later, for sufficient college savings. You will buy your first house at 28, and then upgrade at 33. The trade-off? A mortgage the size of the Greek debt! Thankfully at 29, you bought life insurance, because at 40 you will be uninsurable. In 2015, your two girls will both be in private school and you’re looking, with apprehension, towards teenage years, college and the emotional and financial rollercoaster that comes with that transition!
So what’s the most important lesson I’ve learned over the last 15 years? Your life can change without warning.
Your job, your health, your relationships, which you take for granted now, may not be the status quo tomorrow. So if you were given the gift to be able to see into the future and come back and live differently, what could you do to protect yourself from financial regret? An effective approach would be: identify the potential hazards and put plans in place that will mitigate the risks, because when things go south, it’s usually too late!
So what’s the worst that life can throw at you financially?
Dying Too Young: This is an obvious and tragic risk, and something that should be top of mind with everyone who has responsibilities, be it children, elderly parents, home or business ownership. And don’t kid yourself – as long as your liabilities (and that includes insuring your income) outweigh your assets – you need life insurance.
Living Too Long: Perhaps seen as a less obvious risk, longevity is increasingly prevalent with medical advances. Increases in life expectancy have meant a rising demand for retirement income, longterm care and health-
care in old age that will only continue. Loss of Income during a Period of Redundancy, Illness or Disability: A timely concern especially when considering the number of redundancies in the marketplace – both current and projected, as a consequence of the economic climate and the consolidation of several international firms.
First and foremost, while I provide a lookback on my life at the age of 40 – it is never too late to start any of this. Any amount of savings or protection is better than none. So even if you’re 60, read on! There are four key components to a successful plan; the particulars of each are dependent on your individual goals and needs.
1. An Emergency Fund: Best practices say that you should have at least six months of net income saved in a liquid investment for easy access. This would provide you peace of mind, not only during a period of redundancy or disability, but it would certainly help relieve your family from the burden of day-to-day expenses should you die prematurely.
2. Life Insurance: I have written previously about this often overlooked and misjudged financial protection tool, but it really is key to your defense against the impact of catastrophic risks. Depending on the product, it can also act as a savings vehicle, providing guaranteed
returns (not something possible in the stock market), allowing you to supplement your retirement income in your advanced years.
3. Savings: All of us should be grateful to the Bermuda Government for making pension contributions mandatory. Though the reality is 10% of your income is just not enough to comfortably retire. While there is no magic number, any amount of voluntary contributions will benefit you in the long run. Increasing your balance could reduce your management fees, leveraging your pension investment portfolio gives you the potential for greater
earnings than your bank account, and lastly a voluntary balance aids the transition from income-earner to retiree by supplementing your mandated disbursements.
4. A Will: Seek legal advice and have a will drawn up, because the last thing you want is the government dictating what happens to your assets.
Planning and saving truly are an uphill battle against human nature. We are hardwired to focus on the present, and mentally and emotionally frame ‘saving’ as a loss. But any anxiety, fear, and
insecurity you have for your future right now is not going to go away. So talk to a financial advisor to address the ‘known unknowns’ in your life. I can guarantee that if you take some practical steps, you will feel optimistic, calm, and confident about you and your family’s future.
Lisa Lewis, BSc, is a financial professional of BF&M. With over 14 years in the re/insurance industry, she helps advise individuals and families of how to relieve the burden of unexpected and long-term risks. Lisa can be contacted on 2980229 or llewis@bfm.bm.
The BF&M Horizon Profiles provide a simple investment solution allowing you to select a profile based on when you need your funds. The profiles automatically become more conservative as your financial time horizon nears.
The Horizon Profiles make your investment selection easy and provide you with an optimal asset mix at each stage in your investment timeline.
For more information call 295-5566.
Whether it’s your retirement, your child’s education, or your first house, you have a time frame for achieving your investment goals.
The Department of Parks is informing the general public that as of the 1st November 2012, the 1988 Bermuda National Park Regulations have changed regarding dogs and horses on the public beaches, under the jurisdiction of the 1986 Bermuda National Parks Act.
Dogs are permitted to be on the public beaches until the 31st March 2013.
The dogs must be on a leash at all times.
The Regulations and Policies regarding Horses in Protected Areas are as follows:
During this period until the 30th April 2013 horses are NOT permitted on the following beaches at any time:
The Regulations and Policies regarding Dogs in Protected Areas are as follows:
• From April 1st to October 31st dogs are NOT PERMITTED to be on any of the public beaches.
• Dogs can be walked either on the trails, in parks or on the dunes, in South Shore Park at anytime.
• Please carry and use the DOGIPOT litter pick-up bags as you travel in the designated areas at all times.
• Dogs must be on a leash at ALL times.
1. (1) Subject to paragraph (2), no person shall, in any protected area
• Dogs are NOT PERMITTED in the Main Show Ring in Botanical Gardens.
(a) take a horse other than on designated roadways or trails;
1. John Smith’s Bay Park
2. Elbow Beach Park
• 1st November to 30th April in any year no person shall take or ride a horse on Horseshoe Bay beach in the South Shore Park or on the beaches in John Smith’s Bay Park and Elbow Beach Park but may take or ride a horse on all other public beaches below the high water mark at any time;
3. Horseshoe Bay Beach ( South Shore Park )
(b) ride a horse in a manner likely to cause danger to any person therein;
• Members of the general public are reminded that Botanical Gardens is closed to the public at sundown each day.
• For safety and health reasons dogs are NOT ALLOWED on National Park playgrounds.
(c) ride a horse at a speed greater than fifteen kilometers per hour;
The cooperation of dog kennel operators, and the owners of dogs, in abiding by the regulations, is greatly appreciated.
(d) being in control of a horse leave the horse unattended when it is not properly tied to some suitable object, other than a tree or shrub;
• From 1 May until 31 October horses are NOT PERMITTED to be on any beach in South Shore Park (inclusive of the following beaches: (Port Royal Cove ) Horseshoe Bay, Peel Bay, Butt’s Beach, Wafer Rocks Beach, Chaplin Bay, Stonehole Bay, Jobson’s Cove and Warwick Long Bay) John Smith’s Bay, Elbow Beach and Shelly Bay.
6. No person shall, being the owner of,or in control of, a dog –
(e) lead from horse-back a riderless horse which is not appropriately bridled;
(f) lunge or break in any horse;
• From 1 May until 31 October owners and handlers of horses may take or ride the horses on all other public beaches with the following restrictions: owners and handlers can ONLY take or ride the horses below the high water mark between the hours or 5:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.
(a) subject to paragraph (b), bring such dog unleashed on to any protected area; or
(b) bring such dog on to any public beach in a protected area during the period from the 1st April to the 31st October in any year; or
Patrons must be mindful of the rules and regulations outlined for recreational open fires as mandated by the Bermuda National Parks Act 1986 and The Bermuda National Parks Regulations 1988. See www.bermudalaws.bm.
(g) ride a horse in excess of a slow walk when passing in the vicinity of other members of the public using the area.
BERMUDA NATIONAL PARKS AMENDMENT REGULATIONS 1994
• The cooperation of stable owners, as well as horse owners and handlers, in abiding by the 1988 Bermuda National Parks Regulations and 1986 Bermuda National Parks Act, is greatly appreciated.
(c) subject to paragraph (b), bring such dog on to any protected area using a leash greater than three meters in length, or
(d) cause, permit or suffer such dog to annoy or disturb any person in any protected area.
NOTE: From January 1st to December 31st Horses and Dogs are not allowed within any Nature Reserve.
Also by signs and notice: No dogs in the Main Show Ring at Botanical Gardens and no dogs in Coopers Island Nature Reserve.
In exercise of the powers conferred upon the Minister by section 25 of the Bermuda National parks Act 1986, the following regulations are hereby made: -
• All bonfires require a special permit which must be obtained from the Department of Parks’ Office.
Amendment of BR 49/1988
5 (2) During the period –
• Upon obtaining a special permit, patrons will receive all the necessary information on proper bonfire conduct within our national parks.
(a) 1st November to 30th April in any year no person shall take or ride a horse on Horseshoe Bay, John Smith’s Bay and Elbow Beach but may take or ride a horse on all other public beaches below the high water mark at any time;
If you have any questions regarding the information above, please contact the Department of Parks at 236-5902 or e-mail parksdept@gov.bm
(b) 1st May to 31st October in any year no person shall take or ride a horse on Horseshoe Bay, Johns Smith’s Bay, Elbow Beach and Shelly Bay but may take or ride
