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march/april/may 2019
the good life + special let’s party feature and recipe health
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contents
march/april/may 2019 - the good life issue
magaz ne
upfront
regulars
publisher
8 pregnancy The right choice of bedding can make your baby sleep better
Lisa McNamara lisa@childmag.co.za
10 health Debating the need to give your child vitamins and other supplements
editorial
4 pub’s note As the season turns it provides the perfect opportunity to reflect on the quality of your living 6 over to you Our readers have their say and share their news and views
20 parenting A dad reveals his reasons for saying “no” to sleepovers
features
12 getaways A weekend of discovery in a quiet historical town evokes nostalgia
22 dealing with difference How to help your child cope with anxiety and depression
16 parenting Is it perfectionism or procrastination? Plus, tips for coping
38 recipes This raspberry-and-lemon sponge cake is not only flavoursome, it will also add style to your party
24 an irish holiday The Emerald Isle is an ideal destination for a family holiday offering many varied experiences and wonderful folklore
40 what’s on in March, April and May Family events, workshops, holiday programmes and open days
26 education Children learn in many different ways, which influences how they absorb and process information 29 extramurals Gymnastics is more than just exercise, it’s also a fun way to learn valuable life lessons 32 let’s party Ideas and resources to make children’s birthday parties fun, hassle-free and memorable
46 finishing touch An old-fashioned coastal holiday helps a family resdiscover the joy and fun in life 47 a good read New releases for children of all ages
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46 family marketplace Family and community-related resource
Editor editor@childmag.co.za Resource Editor capetown@childmag.co.za Freelance Copy Editor Brenda Bryden Online Content Manager online@childmag.co.za
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Designers Laura Davey studio@childmag.co.za Thea Woodman
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Cape Town’s Child Magazine is published quarterly by Hunter House Publishing, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Office address: Unit 6, Canterbury Studios, 35 Wesley Street, Gardens, Cape Town. Tel: 0861 867 885, email: info@childmag.co.za. Annual subscriptions (for four issues) cost R150, including VAT and postage inside SA. Printed by CTP. Copyright subsists in all work published in Cape Town’s Child Magazine. We welcome submissions but retain the unrestricted right to change any received copy. We are under no obligation to return unsolicited copy. The magazine, or part thereof, may not be reproduced or adapted without the prior written permission of the publisher. We take care to ensure our articles are accurate and balanced but cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage that may arise from reading them.
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the good life
pub’s note are you living “the good life”?
happy easter 21 april
The older I get, the more time I spend pondering the meaning of what it really means to me and my family when I talk about living “The Good Life”. And, more importantly, how my husband and I can help our daughters lead and live “The Good Life”. We recently sold our house, and hope to downsize to something more compact and less cluttered, hopefully, freeing us to be more present with our children and each other. We move in a couple of weeks’ time, so I have begun sifting and sorting, discarding and donating. All this has made me re-focus on what I REALLY need in my life. Keeping only that which “sparks joy” as the organising and decluttering guru Marie Kondo suggests. “When something sparks joy, you should feel a little thrill, as if the cells in your body are slowly rising. When you hold something that doesn’t bring you joy, however, you will notice that your body feels heavier. When deciding, it’s important to touch it, and by that, I mean holding it firmly in both hands as if communing with it. Pay close attention to how your body responds when you do this,” she writes. Decluttering and refocusing is not confined to things, but includes our family life; children’s lives; our work and workspace; hobbies; and relationships. As the seasons begin to change, perhaps now is a good time to consider what leading and living “The Good Life” means to you.
With love and a spark of joy! let’s party pg 32
what’s on pg 40
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magazine | cape town March/April/May 2019
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over to you Have your say – send your thoughts, suggestions and feedback to editor@childmag.co.za
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pack like a pro
I must commend you on the content and quality of your “super” mag. It definitely has made my leisure time very pleasant. I always love the cover image choice. Are these images sent from the readers, or from agencies? Kavendree Muthu Kurten
Thank you so much for your December Bumper Holiday issue. I came across it while on holiday with my boyfriend in December and enjoyed it very much. I don’t have kids yet, but I rather enjoyed the article on page 20 about packing (www.childmag.co.za/pack-like-a-pro). My boyfriend seemed to forget most of his toiletries and I think it’s really going to help when we travel later this year. Thanks again and keep up the awesome work. Ms AM Matabane
Child Mag responds: Thanks for your positive comments Kavendree. We receive highquality cover pics from photographers and parents alike. If you too
nurturing natural hair
would like to see your child on our cover, read up on the do’s and
I am a mother of a four-year-old girl who is growing her natural hair. I am also an owner of a conjoined salon called OH SO FABULOUS in Sasolburg. This salon was founded as a means to fight the struggle I had throughout the years when my daughter had to do her hair and deal with the consequences of harmful hair products. When I saw Child Magazine I was very interested in sharing my own story and being part of this awesome
don’ts and also the things to be aware of if you are thinking of listing your child with a modelling agency. Understanding how the modelling or acting industry works will go a long way to protecting your child. If you would like more information on this topic, please go to our website and follow this link childmag.co.za/content/cover-story
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magazine | cape town March/April/May 2019
magazine. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Lebohang Moloi
Child Mag responds:
Erratum: The price for the Stokke Changing Bag was incorrect in our Dec/Jan/Feb issue. The correct price is R2 999.00
Hi Lebohang, we would love to share your pearls of wisdom with our readers, and will be in touch to see how we can best pass on your knowledge and experience to the Child Mag community.
from bargain books to beirut I received my very first free copy of your amazing magazine at Bargain Books last week. Are you able to supply me with back copies to give to my son and daughter-in-law for use with my two beautiful, amazing granddaughters, 7 and 4, who live in Lebanon? I spend three months every year visiting them in Beirut and have experienced how complex rearing modern children has become. Their children are both extremely gifted and intelligent, but there are sometimes issues with outside influences that are puzzling to their parents. Your magazine is a real eye-opener. Child Mag’s information is so relevant to modern parenting! I will look out for future issues and send them to my son. Mrs Jean Thomas
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pregnancy and baby
snug as a bug t
babies •
Child Magazine • • •
•
•
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magazine | cape town March/April/May 2019
Choose linen that is 100% cotton. Other fabrics may cause your baby to sweat and aren’t as healthy. Use a mattress that fits securely into the cot and has ventilation holes. Make sure to air any mattress once a week. Use elasticated fitted sheets that won’t come loose. Look for prewashed or high-quality sheets that won’t shrink in the wash. Babies need bedding that keeps them at a comfortable temperature. Opt for a cotton blanket or sheet that can be tucked in snugly under your baby’s arms. Avoid using a duvet for babies. Soft blankets, pillows and cuddly toys are also a suffocation risk. If you do have these on the cot, remove them when it’s time to sleep. Cot bumpers can be a hazard. If you do decide to use one, make sure it is breathable and ties securely onto the cot. Alternatively, look for individual slat bumpers.
PHOTOGRAPH: nynne schroder | unsplash
Well-chosen bedding can do much to improve your child’s sleep.
here’s more to choosing linen than matching the duvet to the lampshade, or finding themed sheets to go with your child’s fluffy pillows. Here are some important factors to consider.
toddlers
sensitive skin
•
Some babies and children may react to the fabric of their bedding, the detergent you’re using, or to the presence of dust mites in their rooms. Signs that can indicate an allergic reaction include itchy or red skin, a rash, sneezing, watering eyes, dry tight skin or eczema. A runny nose, wheezing, asthma or sinus trouble may also suggest dust mites. There are some ways to help alleviate these problems: • Find out what is causing the reaction. • Follow the washing instructions provided on their bedding. • Use hypoallergenic or nonbiological washing powder, and avoid enzyme-enriched and perfumed detergents. • Use dust mite covers, and look for linen, rugs and curtains that can be machine washed. • Avoid having too many pillows or stuffed animals on the bed. • Use high-quality bedding that is nonallergenic and dust mite-proof. • Some children may have a reaction to down, so if necessary replace these with cotton duvet and pillow inserts.
• •
• •
Children can start using a pillow and duvet from about 18 months, or when they move into a bed. Comfort and durability are still important, and it is advisable to choose cotton as it is easily washable and durable. Choose a high-quality mattress and keep it in a good condition by getting a mattress protector. We suggest a cotton casing that is waterproof, but also breathes easily. Fitted sheets are a good idea as toddlers move around a lot while they sleep. Get several changes of bedding, especially once you start night-time potty training.
children • • •
As with babies and toddlers, use high-quality, durable bed linen. Children may spend a lot of time in their room and on their beds, so keep the mattress protector on in case of accidental spills or illness. If they want to create a theme or use certain colours, suggest bedding that will satisfy their need for creativity without compromising its quality.
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health
Nutritional experts believe that these can be helpful at times. Tori Hoffman
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magazine | cape town March/April/May 2019
t
what’s lacking and why? According to Michelle B Lewis, a Cape-Town based nutrition and natural health coach, “we all need some sort of assistance when it comes to our diet, largely because of the stresses of environmental pollutants and the fact that a lot of the foods we eat today are processed and over-processed. The western diet also includes artificial additives and we lose a lot of nutrients along the way”. She explains that proper eating and correct food combinations are very important and good nutritional development starts in the womb. We all need a diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, wholegrains and the forgotten
PHOTOGRAPH: istockphoto.com
do children really need supplements and vitamins?
here’s a reason why there are so many vitamin supplements on the shelves today, for parents and children. It’s not just because popping a pill has become a marketing ploy and a quick fix for a poor diet and a busy lifestyle. It’s because picky eaters, over-processed food and trying to pack too much into an often stressful day has left the majority of us needing a supplement in one form or another.
nutrient, water. Of course, eating healthily isn’t always possible, Lewis admits, especially when it comes to picky eaters, and this is where vitamin supplements serve a purpose.
•
do we need a supplement? Opinion on whether or not you or your child needs to take a vitamin supplement is divided. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that it’s up to you and your family doctor to decide what you need to take and why. Michelle says that while we don’t have to take supplements, she believes that we do need to help our bodies as much as possible. However, she emphasises that a supplement should never be used to replace a meal.
what you need and when •
•
Toddlers and children who are picky eaters or going through a phase of unbalanced eating will benefit from a supplement for that period. Also, families that follow vegetarian and vegan diets will most likely need a supplement too. Growing children often need a supplement for their general health and development. If your child has been sick or has a low immune system, then a vitamin C and zinc supplement may be helpful. While the sun is the best source of vitamin D, children
•
who don’t get enough regular sunshine might also benefit from a vitamin D supplement. Older children and teenagers are said to need cold-pressed oils such as omega and essential fatty acids. This is especially true for sporty children and those who are busy with exams. Not only are the omegas believed to help with bone and brain development, they help with peak endurance and concentration too. They’re also thought to assist with hyperactivity. When your daughter starts menstruating, you might consider an iron supplement or evening primrose oil to combat premenstrual tension. Parents who find themselves feeling rundown would need a vitamin supplement and taking one should be part of their daily routine. “They help combat stress and a vitamin B complex is very important for women,” says Lewis.
Tip: Parents wanting to give their children vitamin and mineral supplements should make sure that it contains no more than the RDA (recommended dietary allowance) of the vitamins and minerals for the ages of their children. RDAs are set high enough to more than meet the needs of most individuals in that category.
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getaways
where penguins play A Cape Town family took a trip “down the line� in search of warmer sea, less wind and exquisite lodgings. lisa Mcnamara
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magazine | cape town March/April/May 2019
PHOTOGRAPHs: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM | tintswalo.com | berthas
c
ape Town is a beautiful place to live, but escaping the city for a weekend brings with it a sense of freedom and relaxation. We recently took a trip “down the line”, our destination: Simon’s Town and specifically Boulders Beach. It’s a part of the world where time seems to stand still and the worries of the city are washed away by the warmer waters of False Bay. Sea you can actually swim in. My grandparents hail from Fish Hoek and for many years my aunt owned a house in Simon’s Town, so it’s a place that holds wonderful holiday memories for me. Now, travelling “down the line” is nostalgic, it calms me and makes me smile. Apart from the lovely old buildings and ancient cobbled stones, Simon’s Town is home to a unique and endangered land-based colony of African Penguins. The Boulders Penguin Colony is one of only a few in the world, and the site is popular with local and international tourists. Boulders Beach is one of my children’s favourite destinations, warmer, calm sea, and a beach protected from the wind. We’ve spent many happy hours on that beach, making sandcastles, swimming and being entertained by the antics of the playful penguins. On more energetic days, we have strolled down the boardwalks (there are three), stopping now and then for my youngest to take a pic, the area being spectacular for budding photographers. Boulders Visitor Centre: +27(0) 21 786 Boulders Beach 2329. www.sanparks.org
Bertha’s Restuarant
feeling peckish? Where better than at the water’s edge to have breakfast, lunch or dinner? Bertha’s Restaurant in the Quayside Centre has a large outdoor dining space, including a children’s play area, with views across Simon’s Town harbour. www.berthas.co.za
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getaways
there’s so much to discover ...
These hand-selected gemstones will provide a lasting memory of our weekend away.
simon’s town scratch patch Did you know that almost half of the world’s gemstones are found in this part of the world? It certainly is one of the most popular places (especially with small children) to scratch, discover and take home a collection of bright and shiny gemstones. Open: Mon to Fri: 8:30 am to 4:45 pm; Sat, Sun and holidays: 9am to 5:30pm www.scratchpatch.co.za
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The life and story of Just Nuisance, the Great Dane, has become so much a part of Simon’s Town and the statue on Jubilee Square is a mustsee. He was the only dog ever to be officially enlisted in the Royal Navy. He died in 1944 and was buried with full military honours. The Simon’s Town Museum has a collection all Just Nuisance’s official papers, his collar and many photographs. A special display is mounted in the museum and a slide show is shown daily to children and tourists from all around the world. www.simonstown.com/museum
warrior toy museum This museum showcases a unique collection of toy cars and trains, dolls and lead soldiers. Great for children of all ages, parents and grandparents. The toy museum also has a sales section for collectors. Contact: +27 (0) 21 786 1395 to confirm hours www.simonstown.org/museums
magazine | cape town March/April/May 2019
Just Nuisance’s well-worn and popular statue in Jubilee Square.
PHOTOGRAPHs: Glany Saldanha | istockphoto.com | Tintswalo.com
just nuisance
keeping the best for last Our ultimate destination was the new Tintswalo at Boulders Boutique Villa offering luxurious seaside accommodation with unobstructed views over Boulders Beach. We opted for the bed and breakfast option, as we were only there for a night. The rooms can be described as “super swish” and the breakfast, mouthwateringly moreish. Walking into the villa felt like going home, except with better furniture, food and a team of highly-trained staff to see to your every need. Yes, this did feel like a dream come true. The venue can be booked exclusively as a private villa for fun family getaways or special celebrations. A private chef is available on request. With so much to do in the area, it makes a wonderful spot for families wanting to holiday together for a weekend, a week or longer. Our time at the villa can only be described by one word, bliss! We’ll be back …
Life is good: The views, food and accommodation at Tintswalo Villa sparked joy. www.tintswalo.com/boulders/villa
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parenting
perfectionism Is your child paralysed by perfection? Here’s what’s really going on and how you can help her.
i
t’s Sunday night, bed time. Your daughter is upset about the assignment for English due the next day. She’s had a week to do it and you’ve seen her sitting at her desk writing and making notes. She has spent hours at it, so you assumed she’d finished. It turns out she hasn’t started. Well, she has. Several times. But each start she made, she deleted. It wasn’t quite right. You know your child isn’t lazy and she isn’t a good old-fashioned procrastinator. It’s possible she’s experiencing perfection paralysis. Perfection paralysis is when a person simply can’t start a project because they are so concerned that they won’t get it exactly right. There only seems to be two options: • Start and prove you’re not perfect • Don’t start.
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magazine | cape town March/April/May 2019
PHOTOGRAPH: jessica lewis | unsplash
Linda Stade
Teachers see it in classrooms all the time. Children will ask lots of questions and run many ideas past you, but they won’t commit anything to paper. Even when they do commit an idea to paper, they will screw it up and throw it away, rather than using it as a jump-off point for a better idea. These kids love correcting fluid because it stops them having to see their errors. They also like writing in pencil because anything risky can be erased. Laptop schools make this process of removing evidence even easier … it’s simply a matter of hitting “delete”. Perfection paralysis is driven by a combination of several elements:
fear of shame and judgment Dr Brene Brown is an amazing speaker, author and research professor at the University of Houston. She works in the area of shame, vulnerability and empathy. She says: “Perfectionism is a self-destructive and addictive belief system that fuels this primary thought: If I look perfect and do everything perfectly I can avoid or minimise the painful feelings of shame, judgment, and blame.” She considers shame to be the most powerful master emotion. “It is the fear that we are not good enough.” People always talk about fear of failure, but in reality, the underlying fear is of shame. So, it is a logical belief that if we can change the association of mistakes = shame, we can disrupt this mindset. Mistakes
must mean something positive. This can’t be a tokenistic pat on the back and “we all learn from our mistakes”. It has to be an authentic change in culture where mistakes are just normal. Completely and utterly normal.
comparison It is human instinct to compare ourselves to others. We are biologically programmed to place ourselves in a hierarchical structure that
At its root, perfectionism isn’t really about a deep love of being meticulous. It’s about fear. Fear of making a mistake. Fear of disappointing others. Fear of failure. Fear of success. – Michael Law
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parenting
anxiety If a child struggles with anxiety they already feel judged, inadequate and fearful. That’s how anxiety works. It’s little wonder that they find it hard to start a project if they’re already convinced that the outcome will lead to negative emotions. The problem is that not starting confirms their feelings of inadequacy. Not starting is failure too.
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magazine | cape town March/April/May 2019
Anxiety doesn’t give any positive solutions and it has a contagion effect. Often perfection paralysis will begin with one subject or type of task and then it will start to generalise across lots of different circumstances and types of activities. Plenty of kids excel in a couple of subject areas, but are paralysed in others. As content gets more challenging in the subjects where they feel comfortable, they will experience mistakes, and anxiety will infect that subject too. This sort of fear and anxiety limits kids. It stops them from trying anything new. That makes for a small world with little joy and wonder.
what can we do to help kids with perfection paralysis? Tracy Webster is the wellbeing co-ordinator at Santa Maria College. She suggests these practical strategies for helping kids with perfection paralysis: • Model making mistakes. Admit you aren’t perfect. Be calm in the face of your own mistakes. Make it normal. • Make things challenging. Make it an expectation that they will fail at first. Some things that are worth learning are hard won. • Provide a safe environment. Kids need to feel as though getting things wrong is a valuable part of learning. • Praise process over product. The glitter border doesn’t matter if you haven’t put enough time into the actual process of the task. • Praise effort over grades … but make sure there has been
PHOTOGRAPH: Agung Pandit Wiguna | pexels.com
determines status and possible mates. We compare our belongings with others’, we compare our partners to others’, we even compare our meals when we order at a restaurant! For most people, these comparisons play a minor role in the way we go about our daily life. However, if a child has low self-worth they will always judge themselves as second best in the comparison “game”. These negative comparisons reaffirm their low sense of worth and so they spiral further downward. The easiest way to avoid these comparisons is to present nothing for comparison. So they don’t. They are paralysed by their fear of comparison, so they avoid completing tasks. Another technique people use to avoid comparison is to create disclaimers for themselves. If a child can say, “I did it all at the last minute, so I probably won’t get a very good result”, then there is less shame involved in a poor outcome. In fact, there is also a slight kick in social comparison because not caring about the system gives you a bit of “rebel without a cause” swagger.
• • •
• •
effort. Lots of people say, “you tried your hardest”, when the child really hasn’t. Teach kids about their brains. Show them that neutral pathways are created by practising skills and thinking. Teach them to plan. Big tasks can be overwhelming. Teach kids to approach tasks in more manageable sections. Show kids different approaches. There are often lots of different answers to a question, not just one. There are also lots of different ways to get an answer. Teach kids to accept their mistakes. Learning is a messy process. You don’t need to start again. Let kids be brave. Give kids lots of opportunities in their lives to be brave, physically, emotionally and intellectually.
finally … Just get kids to start. It doesn’t matter where. Start in the middle, write the last sentence, write the first heading. It doesn’t matter, just start. Churchill said: “Perfection is the enemy of progress.” And he was right. Linda Stade has worked in various teaching and management roles in education for 27 years. Currently, she is the research officer at Santa Maria College, Western Australia.
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parenting
A dad and his 10-year-old daughter have differing thoughts on sleepovers. Patrick and JL Hempfing
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magazine | cape town March/April/May 2019
essie is a blessed girl. In her young life, she’s already had many wonderful experiences. She’s been to the beach, the zoo, and even to Disney World. She takes dance classes and plays a musical instrument. She has many friends and spends quality time with her grandparents and her uncle, aunt, and favourite four-year-old cousin. She even gets to use more than her fair share of hot water to take the long showers she finds so relaxing and conducive for singing. Jessie is a lucky girl indeed. However, Jessie makes one request that her mom Mattie and I have repeatedly denied. Jessie would like to go to sleepovers at friends’ houses. My guess is that many parents, and all of Jessie’s friends, will side with her tween perspective. Would it hurt for Jessie to have a sleepover with friends? With a 99% degree of certainty, I’d predict she would have a wonderful time, maybe not get enough sleep, but have a positive experience. However, as a cautious father, there’s that 1% chance of trouble. Therefore, Jessie sleeps at home in her own cozy bed, with her 10kg guard dog. As a result, I sleep well, too. I remember a discussion between Mattie and her mother that occurred the year after we got married. Mattie noticed that her dad took long naps each time we visited. Mattie’s dad has always worked hard and deserves a nap any chance he gets. However, it hurt Mattie’s feelings that her dad repeatedly slept when she had driven 45 minutes to see him. So, during one visit, while Mattie’s dad dozed, she spoke with her mom.
PHOTOGRAPH: pexels.com
safe at home j
“Mom, it seems like every time I come over, Dad goes to sleep.” Mattie’s mom responded: “He hasn’t slept well since you left home. When you are here, he knows his girl is home safe and sound, so he can rest.” Until recently, I hadn’t given their conversation much thought. Now, that I’m a father, though, it makes sense. Will Mattie and I ever change our minds on sleepovers? Possibly. And it’s not like Jessie hasn’t experienced sleeping away from home. On occasion, she spends the night with her grandparents. A few times, she’s even stayed overnight with her cousin. It’s the sleepover “with friends” that she’s missed out on. Obviously, Mattie and I can’t shield Jessie from all of life’s dangers. Trouble lurks in places we don’t always suspect. Jessie is independent, which is a good thing, and Mattie and I want her to enjoy life, not shy away from it. Like all responsible parents, we want to put our children in
places and situations where they’ll have a chance to grow, but not be in harm’s way. The right thing to do isn’t always clear, and many parenting decisions aren’t easy. But whether Jessie is resting in her bed at home or in a sleeping bag at a friend’s house, one thing is certain ’tween daughter and dad, I love my girl and my girl loves me. And should Jessie ever sleep over at a friend’s house, I’ll likely take a long nap when she returns home the next day. Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year professional career in banking, accounting and auditing before he became a father at age 44. He is now a full-time husband, stay-at-home dad and writer. JL Hempfing, now 14, began writing with her dad in kindergarten. Her current hobbies include reading, writing, playing clarinet and alto saxophone, and dancing.
Let’s hear her perspective. “I’m old enough to have sleepovers with my friends. I think that my parents should try to let me go to one and see how it works. Most of my friends have been having them since preschool. Just because things were different when my parents were young doesn’t mean that I should have the same. I’ll keep trying and maybe they’ll change their minds.” – Jessie, Age 10
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dealing with difference
what to do if your child is depressed Growing up can be an emotional rollercoaster for young people as they navigate through the highs and lows of school, friendships, puberty and other adolescent milestones. Dr Hayley van Zwanenberg
To help you understand what they may be going through, here are three descriptions of what depression actually feels like for a teenager: • For young people, depression can feel like they have a sieve in their head. This sieve allows all positivity to wash away, but holds onto any negative thought, comment or experience, which the teenager then focuses on and magnifies. • A teenager may feel like they are wearing a mask in front of friends, as they believe they have to cover up their real mood so they don’t become a burden. Wearing this mask can be emotionally exhausting, so they often can’t keep it up at home. • Many young people describe depression as feeling like they are being tortured in their head. Anything that they hear instantly gets turned into something negative. For example, if a doctor tells them that their depression is treatable, they believe that they will be the exception to the rule – the one person this doctor can’t help.
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magazine | cape town March/April/May 2019
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of depression to look out for include: psychological symptoms of depression: • persistent sadness, or low mood • anger and irritability • crying more than usual
PHOTOGRAPH: pexels.com
signs of depression in young people
hile it’s normal for tweens and teenagers to feel sad from time to time, depression causes such intense low moods that they impact on a young person’s ability to do normal everyday tasks and enjoy activities and hobbies that were once important to them. If your child seems to be having more lows than highs lately, and these lows are happening more frequently, it is important to know that this could be a sign of depression.
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what does depression feel like for your pre-teen?
• • • • • • • • •
being highly sensitive to bad news or rejection low self-esteem feeling worthless or guilty feeling empty or numb Indecisiveness poor concentration self-harming suicidal thoughts drug or alcohol abuse
social symptoms of depression: • lacking interest in activities they once enjoyed • poor performance and behaviour at school or college • social withdrawal physical symptoms of depression: • frequent headaches and stomach aches • unexplained digestive problems • eating more or less than usual • insomnia, or sleeping more than usual • exhaustion • restlessness • lethargy
i think my child is depressed – what are the next steps? talk to your child If you’re worried, sit down with your child and calmly explain that you’re concerned because they don’t seem themselves. If they’re willing to talk, find out how they are feeling and what is troubling them, and let
them know you’re always there to talk. If your teenager doesn’t want to, encourage them to speak to someone else they trust, such as another parent or a teacher. take them seriously If you haven’t experienced depression yourself, it can be difficult to understand what your child is going through. Something that doesn’t seem to be a big deal to you could be a major issue for your child, which is why it’s important to take them seriously and avoid being critical or judgmental. be open and listen If your child does wants to talk to you about how they’re feeling, be open with them and listen to what they have to say. This lets them know that it’s OK to talk about their problems and that they don’t have to deal with their struggles alone. learn the symptoms By familiarising yourself with the symptoms of depression, not only will this help you to empathise with your son or daughter, but will also mean that you can spot when they’re going through a difficult time, so that you can offer them support at the right time. reduce risks Give your child the phone numbers for organisations such as LifeLine, and encourage them to call if they need to. You could also give them useful apps to look at such as Headspace or Mindspot.
If they have thoughts about harming themselves, ask them to share these thoughts with you in a way they feel comfortable, so you can help keep them safe. They could write their thoughts down, send them in a text message or email, or talk to you about them when they’re feeling calm and perhaps distracted with an activity. Things you can do to reduce risks include locking away any medication and asking the young person what websites they are accessing online. It’s also important to establish the best way that you, as a parent, can support your teenager. Ask them what you can do to help; they may just want hugs, a distraction such as watching a film with you, or not to be left alone at night. seek help It’s crucial to seek professional help if you think your child is struggling with depression. This will ensure that they receive the help they need to prevent their depression from becoming worse. Make an appointment to see your GP; they will be able to recommend the next steps to getting support. Also, reassure your child, especially your teenager, that depression is treatable and advise them that it would be worth taking them to a doctor to find out if they have depression, and if so, to get them the right support. Dr Hayley van Zwanenberg is a child and adolescent psychiatrist working at Priory Wellbeing Centre Oxford.
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getaways
everything’s eiré about ireland’s family adventures Ireland is an excellent option for families. There is a great deal to keep all ages entertained and it’s exceptionally easy to see a lot in a short time. Child Magazine
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eep a keen ear out for the sound of tapping when you head to the home of the last remaining leprechauns in Northern Ireland. Legend has it these little mischief-makers were in fact the shoemakers for fairies and, if you listen hard enough, you can still hear them tapping away at shoes with their tiny hammers. If leprechauns aren’t lure enough, we have five more experiences to inspire you:
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Leprechaun and Fairy Cavern
You may be lucky enough to meet McCoillte, the Leprechaun Whisperer, during your visit to the Leprechaun and Fairy Cavern in Carlingford. After meeting Carraig, one of the last remaining leprechauns on earth, McCoillte was inspired to protect these magical creatures and even managed to get them protected by the EU. You’ll descend below ground and see the spot where leprechauns and fairies converge in the morning as the sun rises. You’ll also hear how Ireland is working to protect the world’s last leprechauns.
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Visit Winterfell Castle
Present-day Castle Ward in Strangford, County Down, just 40 minutes’ drive from Belfast in Northern Ireland, hurtles you back to a time of feasting, fighting and family feuds. This is Winterfell, where you will find the Whispering Wood, where Robb Stark sets up camp and where Brienne confronts the Stark men. Dress up in the same outfits Jon Snow, and Robb and Bran Stark wore and practise your archery prowess at a replica of the Winterfell Archery Range, recreated in the courtyard in the very same spot that the filming took place.
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Giant’s Causeway
Tread in the footsteps of Finn MacCool – his geometric Giant’s Causeway more the stuff of legends than the result of ancient 24
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volcanic activity which left its mark on the Northern Irish coast. Admire the 40 000 interlocking basalt columns that fade into the sea from the safe vantage point of a clifftop walk, which was partly funded by the TTC’s Treadright Foundation, allowing everyone to explore more of this mythical spot.
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Titanic Belfast Visitor Centre
Located beside the historic shipyard where she was originally built, Titanic Belfast provides a fresh and insightful account of the famous RMS Titanic, from her conception in the early 1900s to her notorious maiden voyage, tragic end and her rediscovery under water. What’s great about Titanic Belfast for kids is that the visitor experience uses special effects, rides and interactive exhibits to share the Titanic’s history so it’s relevant and interesting for all ages.
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Flying Boat Museum
Visit Foyne’s Flying Boat Museum, the only dedicated flying boat museum in the world and the former refuelling point for Pan Am’s famous Yankee Clipper from 1939 to 1945, to gain insights into the rich history of aviation. You’ll feel like a passenger and learn how this was where Irish Coffee was first served to treat weary passengers whose New York flights were cut short due to bad weather.
education
learning styles Make learning more enjoyable by understanding the way in which your child processes information.
with Josh’s particular style of behaviour. So, instead of forcing Josh to sit still at a desk, while he writes within the margins of a notebook, Perry allows him to practise his letters on the sliding door. Sometimes, the tarred road is his workbook. “The freedom of that really appealed to him.” Spelling has been made more interesting by allowing him to chant while he does star jumps. “He loves it, and wants to do more.” She says there has been a definite improvement in Josh’s work and his confidence, since they modified his learning methods. Perry has also given Josh plenty of positive encouragement, and adapted his diet to include more omega-3 fatty acids. Hearne explains that she observed a mismatch between Josh’s learning style, which was movement-based or kinaesthetic, and the way in which he was being taught at school. This is why she suggested different ways of learning that would allow Josh to process information in a way that was comfortable for him.
what are learning styles?
j
osh, aged seven, does his homework with a whiteboard marker on the sliding door in the lounge. Sometimes he practises his writing in chalk on the street outside his house and he loves to recite his spelling words while doing star jumps. He is also thriving at school. But a few months ago, Josh’s teachers complained that he was unable to listen in class, follow instructions or complete tasks. His mother, Cindy Perry of Cape Town, says: “He wasn’t concentrating or finishing his work. He was talking too much and at other times, it was like he wasn’t there when the teacher was speaking.” Josh was often separated from the class, spending time at his desk while they were on the mat, for example. Concerned, Perry initially had her son’s eyes and ears tested to 26
see if there was a physiological explanation for his behaviour. She then called a GP who recommended, without even seeing Josh, that he be put on Ritalin for ADHD. Perry was not keen to give her son medication, and not without a thorough examination, so she took him to Lindy Hearne, a speech therapist, for her advice. “Lindy made Josh read to her and gave him questions to answer. She also asked him to describe how he played at school.” Josh gushed animatedly about the wonderful games he played on the playground, and Hearne realised that with his vivid imagination, he required some form of activity to be stimulated, explains Perry. Hearne suggested that Perry find ways to do homework that would fit in
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Melanie Hartgill, an educational psychologist from Johannesburg, says there are several different theories about how many learning styles exist. But there are three main learning pathways: visual (seeing), auditory (hearing) and doing (kinaesthetic). “Three of our five senses are used primarily when learning, storing, recalling and retrieving information. Just as we are predominantly left- or right-brained, we tend to use one modality more than the others.” Visual learners learn best by seeing what is written on the board. They will enjoy writing and drawing and will grow impatient listening to long lectures. Auditory learners have excellent listening skills and will often prefer to recite information, rather than write it down. Kinaesthetic or tactile learners prefer to be mobile and will often excel at hands-on activities such as experiments.
PHOTOGRAPH: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
Anél Lewis
Glenda Karow, a Durban-based educational psychologist who specialises in learning problems, agrees. “Be careful not to “pathologise” the learning style. It is a preference and not a problem.” She says children should be encouraged to develop various learning styles, which they can adapt depending on the subject being studied. “Students who are able to learn through a variety of ways are more effective learners. Remember, they will have to cope in a variable learning-style world.”
when can you tell? Your child’s learning preference will manifest from an early age, as soon as he starts interacting with his environment and speaking. “Our learning style is believed to be relatively established by the age of seven years and though we are able to strengthen our styles after this age, we tend to have one dominant style,” Hartgill adds.
But, having said that, how a child learns may often depend on what is being learnt. Science and maths, for example, will require a more kinaesthetic approach than history.
at school The experts agree that teaching has evolved to accommodate various learning preferences. There are not that many teachers who don’t cover all three (learning styles), but the teaching style will depend on the teacher – their age and preferred teaching method. Hartgill says teachers should combine different teaching methods to meet the respective needs of their class. “This would mean verbally teaching a concept while making use of visual input, such as notes, handouts, information on the board and overhead and then allowing the children to work through examples or elements of the task themselves.” Often it is the parents who are stuck on the conventional modes of learning, observes
Karow, but by trying something different, such as doing star jumps in the garden instead of sitting at a desk, parents could encourage their child to discover a more comfortable, and rewarding, way of learning.
how to identify your child’s learning style or preference Hartgill identifies the characteristics of the three main learning styles. Note that your child may show a stronger leaning to one of these styles, but is probably a combination of all three. the visual learner: • learns with images • reads charts, diagrams and maps more easily • can sit and play with building blocks • may be described as a daydreamer • is good at remembering faces, but may forget names • prefers to take detailed notes
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education
the kinaesthetic learner: • needs to move • cannot sit still for long periods • uses body language and gestures to communicate • needs to be shown things, and not just explained to • loves to touch things • may be incorrectly labelled as ADHD • usually excels in sports • is often evident in boys the auditory learner: • thinks in words • enjoys storytelling • is unlikely to battle with spelling • loves reading • has an excellent memory for names, dates and trivia • enjoys word games • is often musically talented • doesn’t enjoy writing
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tips for parents and teachers Karow recommends that you encourage your child to use as many senses as possible when learning. This could involve: • getting your child to pretend to teach, reciting out loud, at her desk or on her feet • using paper, posters or a white board for homework or study • drawing or writing (a mind map for example) as a visual demonstration of the work • taping the teaching session so that you can play it back later
learning guidelines Encourage the visual learner to: • use memory games, books with pictures and diagrams • use coloured paper and pens • highlight sections that are important
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• • •
work on the computer sit in the front of the class learn through seeing or reading handouts
Encourage the kinaesthetic learner to: • listen to music as they work, if they ask for this • take frequent breaks to move around • tackle hands-on projects • move around while they are working • do art projects • act out stories Encourage the auditory learner to: • read aloud when writing tests and exams or studying • create word problems • dictate their work onto a computer dictation system • present their assignments verbally • encourage debates and discussions • use mnemonics to help their memory.
extramurals
20 reasons your preschooler should do gymnastics that have nothing to do with learning gymnastics.
PHOTOGRAPH: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
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Anne josephson
hat if Johnny never learns a cartwheel? Or how about if Janie never masters holding a handstand? Would there still be any value in putting your preschooler in a gymnastics class? Yes, I say. Absolutely, yes. In addition to it being a lot of fun, here are 20 reasons your preschool aged child should do gymnastics that have nothing to do with learning gymnastics. 1. Separation. Learning to leave your parent or caregiver in the lobby while you go into class is the beginning of learning how to separate
before a child goes to school. The ability to adjust to new situations is an important part of a preschoolers’ education. 2. Following directions. Gymnastics teaches kids to follow multi-stepped directions. Going around the obstacle course and remember what to do at each station is far more than gymnastics training. 3. Following safety rules. Listening to the rules of how we keep ourselves safe in the gym helps children learn how to follow rules at home and school. It places an importance
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extramurals on the concept of personal safety that is relevant for life. 4. Patience. No one likes waiting, especially three, four and five year olds! Practising standing in line for short periods of time and containing your excitement as you wait for your turn on the trampoline are just a couple of ways gymnastics teaches patience. 5. Working co-operatively. From partner drills to moving a mat together, gymnastics teaches kids to work together for a common purpose. 6. Responsibility in cleaning up. Learning to put your carpet spot or cartwheel mat back into a pile is an important skill and one that many parents will be grateful to have their preschooler master next time there is Lego all over the house! 7. Conflict resolution. It’s not easy when you don’t get to be first. Or you don’t get the
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pink poly spot. Or you are unable to stand next to your favourite friend in line. Gymnastics teaches these lessons and helps children learn appropriate ways to resolve their conflicts. 8. Interacting appropriately with adults and peers. Learning to have good manners and speak in a way that is respectful is an important skill for preschoolers to learn. Gymnastics class helps a child learn to treat the teacher with respect and how to navigate social dynamics with their preschool peers. 9. Persistence. Gymnasts must try and try again to achieve even the simplest of skills. Gymnastics teaches kids to stay with an activity until it’s completed. 10. Discipline. Combining listening, respect for rules and patience leads to discipline. When a child has the basics of discipline, selfdiscipline, the ability to self-regulate behaviour, is the next step.
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11. Co-ordination. Gymnastics is the basis of all sports. The building blocks for athletic pursuits down the line are laid in gymnastics. 12. Asking for help. Young gymnasts learn how to ask for help from their coach and peers. 13. Coping with jealousy. Inevitably another child will learn a skill more quickly, run a race faster or be chosen to lead the line for the day, and your preschooler will not like it. Gymnastics class gives your child an opportunity to cope with those yucky feelings and express them appropriately. 14. Character. Gymnastics stresses the importance of doing the right thing, even when the teacher isn’t looking. Preschool gymnasts begin developing this important skill in class. 15. Resilience. A four year old falling down and getting back up while trying to master a cartwheel is learning resilience, the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.
16. Grit. When you learn to keep trying in order to achieve a goal, it is called grit. Educators around the nation understand the relationship between achievement and grit. Watching that same resilient four year old persist at learning a cartwheel is laying the groundwork for a child who possesses grit. 17. The value of effort. Gymnastics is not an easy sport. However, if children try hard they will see progress. They will understand the relationship between effort and success. 18. Ambition. Setting lofty goals and believing that you have the capacity to reach them is the core of what it means to be ambitious. Watching older kids fly around the gym and thinking that someday, if you work hard, you can do that too, is the beginning of ambition.
19. Courage. Gymnastics can be a scary sport. It is when we face something that pushes us out of our comfort zone that we have the opportunity to develop courage. Courage is not only being brave when we fear something, it is also a trait we can call upon when we have to do something that we do not wish to do, like chores or homework, all things that preschoolers will be learning to cope with in the not-too-distant future. 20. Self-confidence. Is it any wonder that a child who develops all of these traits also develops self-confidence? Self-confidence is, simply put, your belief in yourself. If you are able to do class on your own, following the rules and directions, getting along with your peers, understanding that you are an able learner and that failing is ok because you are
ambitious, and have courage and grit, is it any surprise that you are self-confident? So, while I hope all of the Johnnys and Janies enrolled in a preschool gymnastics programme learn great basic skills and have a lot of fun doing so, possibly falling in love with gymnastics and going on to stick with the sport through their childhoods. In the last analysis, these 20 traits will serve them well no matter where their athletic career goes. Put down the iPad and take your child to the gym! Anne Josephson is president and CEO of JAG Gym in Los Angeles. She is the parent of four daughters aged 16 to 20. (courtesy of www.gymwizards.co.za)
When a child has the basics of discipline, self-discipline, the ability to self-regulate behaviour, is the next step.
For more help planning your child’s party visit
childmag.co.za/resources/ birthday-parties
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let’s party
age-appropriate birthday party themes Planning your child’s bash? Here is a list of easy-to-organise, fabulously fun activities for children of all ages. Elaine Eksteen
age 4–6 years what’s potting ready You’ll need a couple of punnets of seedlings (try herbs like basil or flowers such as pansies or marigolds), potting soil, small terracotta pots, a watering can or two and spoons that can be used as little spades. Then something for decorating the pots – for younger children: ear buds, acrylic paint and strips of ribbon; for older children: sequins, mosaic tiles, craft glue, beads and raffia. Ask children to bring an apron, otherwise you will need to provide something to protect their clothing.
go Children can decorate their pots. Little ones can use an ear bud to create a polka-dot design on the body of the pot and then, with help, tie a piece of ribbon of their choice round the neck. Older children can stick mosaic tiles round the rim, or decorate with sequins, or thread beads onto raffia and wind round the pot. When they are done they can select a seedling and plant it, which they then get to take home with them.
age 5–8 years racing car relay ready You’ll need some large cardboard boxes (ask your local supermarket if they have any packaging you could recycle); paint; brushes; scissors; glue; colourful paper; plastic packaging for decorating; red-and-white danger tape; tent pegs; and a few cycling helmets. Ask children to bring an apron or old shirt to work in, otherwise you’ll need to provide something to protect their clothing.
age 2–3 years bike, trike and scooter rally ready Children will need to bring along their pushbikes, trikes or scooters, so remember to send out a request with the invitations. Borrow a couple of bikes and have these as backup for those who forget theirs. You’ll need to chalk up a course on your driveway with a few obstacles and road signs. get set Map out a track and include a stop street or two and a traffic light (enlist a parent’s help – green plate for go, red for stop). go Children can scoot around the course at leisure, or parents can help them along. A talking stop sign (Grandpa might like this job), chatty traffic lights (perhaps Dad has the sense of humour for this one?) and a human tunnel will add to the fun. 32
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get set Use danger tape secured in place with tent pegs and make lanes (to match the number of teams) in your garden or the neighbourhood park. go Divide the children into teams and get them to build and decorate their “racing cars”. It’s probably a good idea to serve the food once the cars are built (this’ll allow time for the glue to dry – and you can add the odd staple to secure things before the race). This is also a good time to take a photo of each car – they probably won’t look quite their best after the relay! Then arrange half the team at the one end of a lane, the rest at the other. In turn, each team member must first put on and fasten the helmet, jump into the car and carry it along with them down the lane. When they reach the end, the driver hops out, hands over the helmet and the next driver continues. Award prizes for best-looking car, most sturdy vehicle and winning team.
PHOTOGRAPH: pexels.com | daria shetsova
get set Arrange the equipment outside, or in your family room with lots of newspaper on the table and floor – somewhere you don’t mind mess.
age 3–8 years create a cupcake
age 7–10 years photo trail
ready You’ll need sufficient un-iced cupcakes (if you’d prefer to avoid the hassle of baking your own, store-bought chocolate or blueberry muffins will work just as well); ingredients for making a few colours of icing; and sprinkles, chocolate buttons and other bits for decorating the cupcakes.
ready This is the techno take on the nature/ treasure hunt. Instead of bringing back the item, teams must return with a photo of each object or activity on the list. You’ll need a few fairly indestructible point-and-shoot digital cameras. (Perhaps some of the children are able to bring their own. Chat to parents when you hand out the invitations).
get set Prepare the icing and set up a table with all the goodies for decorating, plus some palette knives or sucker sticks for applying the icing. go The children can decorate their own cupcakes. You could get them to vote for their favourites or just take a photo of each (to send with the thank-you note) and allow them to munch on their creations.
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get set Visit the venue to familiarise yourself with what’s there. Make a list of the things the guests will need to capture on their cameras and print out a copy for each team. If you are having the party at your local botanical garden, for instance, include a particular tree, a sculpture, a bird that’s a common resident, and so on. At your own home you might include a close-up shot of an ant, something purple, five round items of different colours or a funny face. You can also get the children to snap themselves
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making a human pyramid, for example. For safety sake, if you are in a public place, you’ll need an adult to dash round with each team. At your home you might want to stipulate no-go areas. You probably don’t want your wardrobe unpacked in search of that feather boa your son saw you wear to a fancy dress last year … go Divide the children into groups and send them off to find the things on the list and photograph them. Give prizes for the best photo, first to complete the assignment or funniest picture. If you’re at home you could show the children each other’s images by loading them all onto a memory stick and playing it through your music system on the TV.
age 8–10 years backwards bonanza ready You’ll need a few old rice bags for sack races (try your hardware store); sticky tape in a dispenser; as many sheets of wrapping
PHOTOGRAPHs: vojtech okenka, pexels.com | ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
let’s party
paper as there are guests; and a small gift wrapped in tissue paper. get set Set out the party food on the tablecloth under the table. Have a music system with an appropriate CD at the ready. go Greet children with “goodbye”; start by eating the food under the table; sing happy birthday backwards – you can stick the words underneath the tabletop: “You to birthday happy, you to birthday happy,”; and so on. Play the birthday child’s favourite party games backwards and reward the “losers” as the winners. Hop sack-race relays in reverse. Play pass the parcel, getting the children to each wrap the gift in a layer of paper when it’s their turn, the child left with the last sheet of wrapping paper gets to keep the gift. Play musical statues, but the children need to dance when the music is off and freeze when the music is on. Send them all home with a cheerful “hello”.
age 8–13 years pretty pamper
age 8–13 years music mania
ready You’ll need a few large plastic bowls; nail-polish remover; bubble bath; cotton wool; towels; nail files; foot cream; and a variety of nail-polish colours. You’ll also need to enlist the help of a few moms (“beauty therapists”) and hire a DVD that the children will enjoy.
ready You’ll need a music system that can take a microphone and a CD of the birthday child’s favourite songs (or consider hiring a karaoke machine). Come up with a list of song titles and write these on little slips of paper. You could also find someone to teach the partygoers some cool new hip-hop moves, for instance.
get set Fill the baths with warm water and mix in some bubble bath. go Put on the movie and let the girls soak their feet as they watch. The beauty therapists can then dry off the guests’ feet, tidy up their nails with a file, apply foot cream and paint their nails in the colour of their choice.
get set Make sure the music system is working and set it up in the room where you are having the party. go Let the guests take turns singing along through the mic, the less outgoing can sing in pairs. Run a game of charades with the song titles you have prepared and get them to try out a few dance moves with the help of your guest hip-hop “star” or a current music video.
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let’s party
one stop birthday basics guide accessories All About Celebrations Party Shop – Retreat 072 022 2390 / allaboutcelebrations.co.za The Crazy Store – All areas 0861 111 281 / info@crazystore.co.za Kids Fancy Dress – Parklands 021 557 6891 / kidsfancydress.co.za/ Kidz-A-Peal – Plumstead 021 762 8580 / kidz-a-peal@telkomsa.net King Cake Party City – All areas 021 511 1691 / partycity.co.za Money Box Party Packs – All areas 083 659 4055 / jorsam.co.za Parties4Africa – Online 072 083 4844 / parties4africa.co.za The Fairy Shop – Claremont 021 671 0935 / fairyshop.co.za
catering Charly’s Bakery – Gardens 021 461 5181 / charlysbakery.co.za Chateau Gateaux – Durbanville 021 300 5295 / chateaugateaux.co.za Hmmm Bakery – Gardens 021 462 1950 / hmmmtasteandflavours.co.za Tessa’s Bakery – Milnerton 021 551 6107 / tessasbakery.co.za
entertainers Beautiful Possibilities (Mobile Spa & Events / Pamper Parties) – All areas 076 682 8045 / beautifulpossibilities.co.za Debby Doo – All areas 084 409 1683 / debbydoo.co.za
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Enchanted Parties – All areas 021 683 0295 / enchantedparties.co.za Glen McMeeking Magician – All areas 073 405 1199 / escapemagic@gmail.com Jellybean Events – All areas 083 392 9593 / jellybeanworld.co.za Magical Parties – All areas 073 263 1920 / magicalparties.co.za Minni Mo Reptile Parties – All areas 083 244 5194 / minimoshows.org Puppet Shows For All – All areas 021 448 0794 / puppetshowsforall.co.za Puppet World – All areas 083 626 5555 / jane@puppetworld.co.za Sparkle Parties (Mobile Pamper Parties) – All areas 061 369 0919 / info@sparkleparties.co.za / sparkleparties.co.za The Silk Workshop – Montague Gardens 073 273 3538 / thesilkworkshop.com Tony Lee Magician – All areas 082 899 0109 The Clamber Club – All areas 079 423 6582 / clamberclub.co.za Little Cooks Club – All areas 083 556 3434 / littlecooksclub.co.za
equipment hire Berry and Flambe – All areas 021 914 1460 / berryflambe.co.za Jolly Jump Castles – Milnerton/Durbanville 082 827 7999 / jollyjumpcastles.com Jumping Candy Castles – All areas 082 842 4007 / jumpingcandycastles.co.za
magazine | cape town March/April/May 2019
Kids Themed Parties – All areas 079 516 4177 / kidsthemedparties.yolasite.com Paula’s Party Stuff – All areas 021 795 0011 / paulaspartystuff.com Rumble Grumble Parties – All areas 084 210 6234 / rumblegrumble.co.za
indoor & outdoor parties Bugz Play Park – Joostenberg Vlakte 021 988 8836 / bugzplaypark.co.za Spur Steak Ranch – All areas 0860 007 787 / spur.co.za Mineral World (Scratch Patch) and Cave Golf – Simon’s Town, V&A Waterfront 021 786 2020 / scratchpatch.co.za Sue Nepgen Art Parties – Kenilworth, Constantia, or your own venue 021 794 6609 / 083 237 7242 / snepgen@ xsinet.co.za
indoor parties Action Sports South Africa – All areas actionsports.co.za / info@actionsports.co.za Build-A-Bear @ Toy Kingdom – Canal Walk, Cape Gate, Tygervalley, V&A Waterfront 0861 862 343 / buildabear.co.za be.UP Park – Pinelands 021 204 4884 / beuppark.co.za The Kid’s Gym – Century City 021 110 5574 / thekidsgym.co.za Cape Town Science Centre – Observatory 021 300 3200 / ctsc.org.za The Playstation – Tokai 087 470 0497 / theplaystation.co.za
Flippers Swimming Parties – Observatory 083 747 9196 / flippersswimschool.co.za Franky’s Diner – Sea Point 021 433 0445 / frankysdiner.co.za Funky Frogs – Bellville 071 441 1081 / funkyfrogs.co.za Funtastic Play and Party Venue – Parklands 065 846 9329 / funtastic-play-venue.co.za GrandWest – Goodwood 021 505 7777 / grandwest@suninternational. com / suninternational.com Gym Wizards – Pinelands 021 532 1832 / www.gymwizards.co.za In The Zone Art Parties – Plumstead 079 346 6559 / 079 343 5953 / inthezone.co.za Kids Cooking Club – Claremont 082 303 1764 / thekidscookingclub.co.za Little Professors – All areas 072 245 0627 / littleprofessors.co.za Montague Arena – Montague Gardens 021 552 3165 / montaguearena.co.za Planet Kids – Muizenberg 021 788 3070 / planetkids.co.za PlayDate Superpark – V&A Waterfront 067 028 0738 / superpark.co.za Rush Trampoline Park – Claremont 021 683 3841 / rushsa.co.za School of Rock – Claremont 021 671 9580 / locations.schoolofrock.com Silent Events – All areas 072 777 0717 / silentevents.co.za Swimmable Swim School – Gardens 079 591 4471 / swimmable.net The Clay Café – Hout Bay
076 810 5120 / claycafe.co.za The Ice Station (Grand West) – Goodwood 021 535 2260 / icerink.co.za The Kids Shack – Tokai 021 761 4240 / thekidsshack.co.za The Playshed – Pinelands 021 801 0141 / theplayshed.co.za Two Oceans Aquarium – V&A Waterfront 021 418 3823 / aquarium.co.za
outdoor parties Acrobranch – Constantia and Stellenbosch 086 999 0369 / acrobranch.co.za Action Pursuit (Paintball) – Kommetjie 083 454 9090 / actionpursuit.co.za African Brothers Football Academy – Tamboerskloof 021 802 3104 / africanbrothers.co.za Fit Kids – All areas 072 432 6118 / fitkids-sa.co.za Battlefield Live – Durbanville, Paarl, Somerset West, Stellenbosch, Wynberg 084 364 9979 / battlefieldlive.co.za Boschendal – Franschhoek 021 870 4274 / boschendal.com Gary’s Surf School – Muizenberg 021 788 9839 / garysurf.com Graceland Venues – Paarl 021 863 4109 / graceland-venues.co.za Gumboot Parties – Durbanville 072 182 9333 / gumbootparties.co.za Higgeldy Piggeldy – Kommetjie 021 783 4545 / imhofffarm.co.za Imhoff Farm – Kommetjie
021 783 4545 / imhofffarm.co.za Jolly Roger Pirate Boat – V&A Waterfront 021 421 0909 / yacoobyachts.co.za Kidz Discovery Workshop – Camps Bay 083 654 2494 / kidzdiscovery.co.za Le Bonheur Crocodile Farm – Paarl 021 863 1142 / lebonheurcrocfarm.co.za Learn 2 Surf – Muizenberg 083 414 0567 / learn2surf.net Little Kickers – All areas 082 727 6647 / littlekickers.co.za Muizenberg Water Slides – Muizenberg 082 454 5023 / muizenbergslides.co.za Opikopi Farm Party Venue – Durbanville 021 976 6788 / opikopipartytjies.co.za Rugby Tots – All areas 079 410 1728 / rugbytots.co.za S.W.A.T. Laser Tag – Melkbos/Helderberg 074 188 8777 / swatlasertag.co.za Sporting Chance – Newlands 021 683 7299 / sportingchance.co.za Surf Emporium – Muizenberg 021 788 8687 / surfemporium.co.za The Little Play Project – Diep River 072 022 2390 / FB @TheLittlePlayProject Milkwood Maze – Imhoff Farm 072 991 7237 / 082 333 6323 / milkwoodmaze@gmail.com The Range – Tokai 021 713 2340 / therange.co.za Waterworld – Strand info@waterslides.co.za / waterslides.co.za Weltevreden Kids Carnival – Stellenbosch 021 889 6588 / weltevredenestate.com
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recipes
special occasion treat A cake to grace any party table ... classic baker Martjie Malan’s cookbook, Baking Secrets: Recipes for Every Occasion, is filled with an essential selection of quality recipes. Martjie shares not only her passion for baking, but also some of her secrets giving you the confidence to try and master even the most technical of cakes.
raspberry-and-lemon sponge cake basic sponge cake This is my go-to recipe: A soft sponge with a fine crumb and beautiful texture that can be transformed by adding any number of exciting and different syrup flavours. The base is deliciously sweet and absorbs syrup like a sponge – hence the name! It also keeps very well and can be frozen for later use. The technique takes some practice and precision, but once you have mastered it, this cake will give you great pleasure and you’ll be making it over and over again. ingredients basic sponge cake • 770 g butter • 180 g cake flour • 15 ml cornflour • 200 g sugar • pinch of salt • 6 eggs lemon syrup • 125 ml fresh lemon juice • 100 g sugar
raspberry-and-lemon icing • 400 g butter, at room temperature • 600 g icing sugar • juice of 1 medium lemon • 200 g raspberries equipment • 20 cm round cake pan or 2 x 15 cm cake pans lined with baking paper • Double boiler • Electric mixer • Broad paddle • Sharp knife or palette knife • Small saucepan • Cake cutter method basic sponge cake Preheat the oven to 180˚C. Line the bottom of a cake pan with baking paper – don’t spray the pan or spread with butter. Melt the butter and set aside to cool. Sieve the cake flour and cornflour into a mixing bowl and keep at hand. Prepare a double boiler with 2 cups of water heated over medium heat.
Place the sugar, salt and eggs in the bowl of an electric mixer and beat until well mixed. Place the mixing bowl over the simmering water and beat continuously using a wire whisk. The egg mixture should become warm and the sugar must dissolve. Test regularly to check whether the mixture is warm, and remove from the heat as soon as it is hot. Place the mixing bowl in the electric mixer and beat with the balloon whisk at a high speed. The mixture should increase to three times its original volume, and be light in colour. Whisk until the mixture has cooled – about 5–7 minutes. Use a broad paddle to carefully fold in the flour mixture; do this in three separate batches. Stir 2 tablespoons of the egg-and-flour mixture into the melted butter. Add this back to the mixing bowl with the other ingredients and fold through well, careful not to lose too much volume. The mixture should be light, almost foamy, and have a light colour.
Cake is happiness! If you know the way of the cake, you know the way of happiness! If you have a cake in front of you, you should not look any further for joy! – C. JoyBell C. 38
magazine | cape town March/April/May 2019
Pour the cake batter into the cake pan or pans and bake for 25–30 minutes. Allow to cool and cut carefully around the edge of the pan with a thin, sharp knife or palette knife. Keep the blade as close to the cake pan as possible. lemon syrup Cook the ingredients in a small saucepan until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture becomes syrupy. Remove from the heat and allow to cool. raspberry-and-lemon icing Place the butter in the mixing bowl of an electric mixer and beat until soft and smooth. Add the icing sugar and beat at a medium speed until the icing is white and creamy – about 5 minutes. Add the lemon juice and beat through well. Add the raspberries and mix through at a slow speed. Add a tablespoon of boiling water to make the mixture easily spreadable.
assemble the cake Using a cake cutter, divide the cake into 4–6 layers of equal thickness (about 1 cm thick). Place the first layer on the cake plate and drizzle with the lemon juice, but be sure not to moisten the cake too much. Spread an even layer of the icing on top. Place the next layer on top and repeat until all the layers have been used. Decorate the entire cake with a thin layer of the icing, making sure that the icing is smooth and even around the sides and on top. Decorate the top of the cake with choux puffs dipped in white-chocolate ganache, golden rose leaves and raspberries painted gold. Serve on your prettiest plate or cake stand.
about the book
Baking Secrets: Recipes for Every Ocassion by Martjie Malan (Quivertree Publishers, R376) is a beautifully illustrated book featuring easy-to-follow steps grounded on basic techniques and guideline to make your baking experience enjoyable and successful. This selection of quality recipes will ensure that you have the perfect bake for the right ocassion.
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calendar
what’s on in march/april/may For more events go to childmag.co.za/whats-on or submit an event for our June/July/August issue before 3 May to capetown@childmag.co.za 25 Feb–9 March Richard III The Maynardville Open Air Theatre presents Richard III. Watch the infamous hunchback antihero navigate palace politics to become the new king of England. Enjoy a picnic before the show. Venue: Maynardville Open Theatre, Piers Road, Wynberg Time: 8:15pm–10:30pm Cost: R130–R220 from online.computicket.com Contact: maynardville.co.za
1 March The Crazy Carnival Join the jugglers and magicians for all sorts of fun and games. Goodie bags, popcorn and prizes, what’s not to love? Time: 10am–12pm Venue: The Crazy Store, Blue Route Mall Contact: 087 897 6319
2 March PNPS Red-a-Fair Pinelands North Primary School’s Red-aFair provides fun for the whole family. The
fair boasts rides, games, jumping castles, a petting zoo, tasty treats, craft stalls and great entertainment. Time: 9am–4pm Venue: Pinelands North Primary School Cost: Free Contact: The school secretary 021 5313414, red-a-fair@pnps.co.za, pnps.co.za
Vine School Market Day There’ll be handmade crafts, a tea garden and food stalls as well as a snake handler and a magician. Time: 10am–2pm Venue: 37 Denver Road, Lansdowne Cost: Free entry, cash only for any purchases. Contact: 021 696 3220, info@thevineschool. org.za
CPR and Paediatric First Aid Course A three-hour course teaching basic CPR plus an hour of instruction in first aid for children. Perfect for all age groups, particularly parents and all who work with and around children.
Venue: 56 Victoria Road, Plumstead Time: 9am–1pm Cost: R340 for CPR course, R415 for CPR and paediatric first aid Contact: 021 705 6459, training@pec.co.za, pec.co.za
2, 9, 16, 23, 30 March The Frog Prince This much-loved Grimm’s fairytale will be performed with glove puppets. Suitable for all children 4+. Time: 10am & 11:15am Venue: The Rainbow Puppet Theatre, Constantia
regulars
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LGBTI Proud 2B Parents Support Group
Book Club @ Central Library
Performing Arts and Music @ Central Library
The group meets regularly (once every six weeks) to exchange experiences and lend support to one another through their journey of parenthood. The meetings are relaxed and every member is made to feel comfortable to share. Join the Facebook page for more details on dates and venues: Proud 2B ~ LGBTI Parents Venue: as per event Time: as per event Cost: Free Contact: Heather, 021 422 0255, health2@ triangle.org.za
Join this book club for readers of all ages and genres, backgrounds and occupations once a month on a Wednesday. Members choose and discuss a book of their choice that falls within that month’s chosen topic. Discover hidden gems while meeting people with similar interests. Venue: Central Library, Old Drill Hall, Corner of Parade and Darling Streets Time: 1:30pm Cost: Free Contact: 021 444 0983, central.library@ capetown.gov.za
The Performing Arts and Music Library has one of the best collections of music and performance art in the city. On loan, you will find a range of books, sheet music, CDs, and DVDs. Perfect for family movie nights or rainy days indoors. Venue: Central Library, Old Drill Hall, Corner of Parade and Darling Street Time: 8am–8pm (Monday to Friday), 9am–4pm (Saturday) Cost: Free Contact: 021 444 0983, central.library@ capetown.gov.za
magazine | cape town March/April/May 2019
Waldorf, Spaanschemat River Road Cost: R25 Contact: 021 783 2063, therainbow. puppettheatre@gmail.com
2,3 March CANSA Shavathon Show your support for cancer survivors at various shopping centres by shaving or colourspraying your hair, or making a small donation. Go the extra mile and organise your own event in your community or workplace. Suitable for family members of all ages. Venue: visit shavathon.org.za for a venue near you Cost: R50 (adults), R25 (u-12s) Contact: 0800 22 66 22, shavathon.org.za
3 March Norval Foundation Kids As part of its mission to support and
broaden art education, Norval Foundation welcomes school groups and tours. The Norval Foundation hosts a unique support structure to sponsor a child’s tour from an underprivileged school each time you purchase a Help a Buddy tour. Contact: Education co-ordinator at kids@ norvalfoundation.org Cost: Kids Tour – R25 per child, Kids Help a Buddy Tour – R50 per child, Adults – R50
6 March Eco Household Workshop This Eco Household Workshop will inspire and add to your nanny, domestic worker and/ or gardener’s knowledge of environmentrelated topics such as ways of minimising waste, recycling, and saving various manmade and natural resources. Venue: Bowwood Baby Clinic, Claremont
Time: 9:30am–12:30pm Cost: Enquire Contact: Kim Gorghulho, 082 743 3076, kim@nannytraining.co.za, nannytraining.co.za
6, 7 March The Meltdown Show Jeff Kinney, bestselling author of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, is in town! Join him for The Meltdown Show, an interactive author experience. This one-hour show is packed full of trademark Wimpy Kid humour, trivia, cartooning, zany audience participation opportunities, and snowball fights. Time: 4pm on the 6th and 10am on the 7th Venue: The Bay Hotel Address: 69 Victoria Road, Camps Bay Ticket information: quicket.co.za
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calendar
8 March First Aid Course An informative course for au pairs, parents, nannies and anyone who works with or around children. The course offers practical lessons on CPR, choking, first aid and fevers. Participation earns Discovery Vitality members 2 500 points per member. Venue: Cape Town Time: 9:30am–2:30pm Cost: R420 Contact: Belinda, 072 323 6172, belinda@ educarecape.co.za, educarecape.co.za
10 March Vumani Choral Project These gospel classics bring an end to the Maynardville Open Air Festival. The classicallytrained ensemble accompanied by a live band with a flair of African taste presents an explosion of praise and worship music featuring classic gospel songs and some
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newly-composed worship songs. Perfect for the whole family. Venue: Maynardville Open Theatre, Piers Road, Wynberg Time: 6:30pm–8:30pm Cost: R120 from online.computicket.com Contact: maynardville.co.za
15–20 March Masterchef Masterclass MasterChef Australia’s 2017 runner-up, Ben Ungermann returns to South Africa for a series of three masterclasses. Perfect for beginners and those who want to elevate their kitchen experience in the kitchen. Venue: to be announced Time: to be announced Cost: R950 per class (includes apron and meet and greet) from quicket.co.za Contact: Keirisha 086 111 2433, chef@ capsicumcooking.co.za
magazine | cape town March/April/May 2019
15 March–14 April Chicago The Musical Set in the age of jazz in Chicago, this devilishly delicious musical features one show-stopping sassy song after another and sensational dancing, performed by an all South African cast. Only for adults. Venue: Artscape Opera House, Cape Town Time: 8pm–10:30pm Cost: R200–R500 from online.computicket.com
16–17 March Ole for Charity Last Night of the Proms’ returns to Cape Town’s City Hall with a Spanish theme. Conductor Richard Cock has composed a fitting programme of classics to add to the fiesta feel. Lucky draw prizes up for grabs. Venue: Cape Town City Hall Time: 7:30pm– 10pm Cost: R250– R300 from online.computicket.com
Contact: Berry Cleveland 083 303 0985, cleveland@mweb.co.za
18 March–1 April Holiday Care Holiday care for children aged 2–8 years. Each day offers two craft lessons and free play for the rest of the day. Venue: Sunny Skies Nursery Road, 26 Howard Drive, Meadowridge Time: 7am–6pm Cost: R90–R110 Contact: Danieël 021 712 5657 / 082 781 3080, sunnyskies@mweb.co.za
25–29 March Learn to Swim Accelerate your baby’s swimming progress with daily swimming sessions, beginning with lessons on water safety, floating, water friction and an introduction to strokes. Suitable for children from 6 months+.
Venue: Flippers Swim School, 8 Oxford Road, Observatory Time: 10am–6pm; choose either a 15- or a 30-minute session Cost: From R450 Contact: Nikki 083 747 9196, info@ flippersswimschool.co.za
25–30 March Pinocchio Based on the original classic of the little wooden puppet who has to prove himself to be honest and trustworthy before he can become a real live boy, with help and guidance from Jiminy Cricket and the Blue Fairy. Fairytale fun for the whole family. Time: 10:30am Venue: Nassau Theatre, Groote Schuur High School, Palmyra Road, Newlands Cost: R85 from online.computicket.com Contact: Elton 083 364 8284, 021 558 2650, lilliputtheatre@gmail.com, lilliputplayers.co.za
28 March Natures Treasure Box Join the fun at Kirstenbosch Gardens for a morning filled with songs, stories, games and an exploration of nature. Come and create your own special treasure box filled with the wonders of nature. Suitable for ages 6–9 years. Time: 9am-1pm Venue: Gold Fields Environmental Education Centre, Kirstenbosch Gardens Cost: R60 per child Contact: Jackie Loni 021 799 8670, nazeerahvn@gmail.com
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calendar
19 April Easter Full Moon Hike @Delvera This 9.75km marked circle route provides the unique experience of hiking through the Greater Simonsberg Conservancy and Yellowwood forest to the top of Klapmutskop. It can take you up to one-and-half hours to reach the top, so don’t get there late to ensure that you have the full experience. Time: Arrival by 4pm, no later than 5:30pm to start hike Venue: Dirtopia Trail Centre, Delvera Farm, R44 between Klapmuts and Stellenbosch Cost: R150, R50 for u-10s
30 March Fundamental MTB Skills Clinic
11–15 April The Art Of Being Workshop
David Hogan presents MTB skills not only for beginners, but also for those riders who have been riding for some time and want to learn to be more confident on the trails. Suitable for age 12+. Venue: Dirtopia Trail Centre, Delvera Farm Time: 8–8:30am (registration), 8:30am– 11:30am (theory and trail cycling) Cost: R400
Create a life of profound joy and inner peace and a pathway to new mindfulness. Join three experts for a weekend retreat offering Conscious Awareness training following the Swiss Sophrology method, Jin Shin Jyutsu and Iridology. All participants receive a personalised toolkit to facilitate optimal health and wellbeing. The workshop was created with parents and educators in mind. Venue: Bodhi Khaya Retreat Centre, Overberg Contact: Sharon 082 562 4189, sharon@ learningunlimited.co.za
6, 13, 20, 27 April The Brave Little Easter Rabbit A lovely Easter story performed with glove puppets. Recommended age 4+. Time: 10am & 11:15am Venue: The Rainbow Puppet Theatre, Constantia Waldorf, Spaanschemat River Road Cost: R25 Contact: 021 783 2063, therainbow. puppettheatre@gmail.com
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27 April Monster Jam One of the biggest action-packed live events on four wheels is coming to South Africa for the first time! Featuring four-metre-tall, fiveton custom-made monster trucks racing and ripping up a track full of obstacles. Monster
magazine | cape town March/April/May 2019
Jam kicks off with the world-famous Pit Party. Venue: Cape Town Stadium Time: 1:30pm–3pm (pit party), 6pm (show starts) Cost: Pit Party tickets cost R150, each. Available only with an event ticket priced at R150, R250, R350, R450 and R600 book at online.computicket.com
27 April, 25 May Fabric Painting Workshop Holiday and weekday classes for adults and children are offered. Time: 8:45am–10:45am Venue: Pinelands Cost: R50 for the class, includes the kit Contact: Wendy 021 531 8076, 082 391 4954, wendyadriaan@telkomsa.net
25 May Waldorf Kindergarten Festival There will be a Saint George and the dragon puppet show at 10:30am & 2pm, The Frog
Prince puppet show at 12pm. Ideal for children age 4+. Time: 10:30 am and 2pm Venue: The Rainbow Puppet Theatre, Constantia Waldorf, Spaanschemat River Road Cost: R25 per child, R25 per adult Contact: 021 783 2063, therainbow. puppettheatre@gmail.com
open days Cannons Creek Schools
German International School
Join the primary and high school to explore the school and what it has to offer your child. Date and time: 8 March, 9am–12pm (primary school), 9 March, 9am (high school programme starts in the cultural theatre) Venue: 2 Nursery Way, Pinelands Contact: 021 531 0912 (primary school), 021 531 5011 (high school), cannonscreek.co.za
The German International School is a bilingual school with a South African and European university entrance qualification. Guided school tours start at 10am. Non-German speaking children can join the popular English stream, which starts in Grade 5. Date: 1 March Time: 10am–1pm Venue: German International School Cape Town (DSK), 28 Bay View Avenue, Tamboerskloof Contact: 021 480 3830, dsk.co.za
Chameleons Montessori School
21 April Easter picnic fun for the family Enjoy a family picnic complete with an Easter egg hunt for the little ones, live music, and a wide variety of delicious treats. Children get to decorate a giant Easter egg, enjoy face painting, a jumping castle and a variety of lawn games. Time: 12–4pm Venue: Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate, Main Rd, Franschhoek Cost: R300–R800 Contact: Marna Viljoen, hospitality@ grandeprovence.co.za, 021 462 0520
All prospective parents are invited to the pre-school and toddlers’ open day. View the school in its unique farm setting. Date: 6 April Time: 9am–1pm Venue: Chameleons Montessori School, Nitida Wine Farm Contact: 021 976 611, info@ chameleonsmontessori.co.za, chameleonsmontessori.co.za
Elkanah House Open Hours Elkanah House High School Date: 27 February Time: 5:30–6:30pm Elkanah House High School Date: 11 March Time: 5:30–6:30pm Elkanah House Sunningdale Preparatory Date: 9 March Time: 9–11am Contact: Sarah Jacobs 021 554 8622, elkanah.co.za
International School of Cape Town Open House The school offers the internationally renowned Cambridge qualification across both its campuses. Date: 25 April Time: 9am–12pm Venue: Woodland Heights campus – 4 Edinburgh Close, Wynberg; Struben House campus – 31 Eden Rd, Claremont Contact: Please confirm attendance to Bronwyn Arnold on b.arnold@isct.co.za
Rainbow Montessori School Date: 25 May Time: 9am–12pm Venue: 2 Kapokberg Crescent, The Crest, Durbanville Contact: 021 975 4831, Rainbowmont@mweb. co.za, rainbowmontessorischool.co.za
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finishing touch
finding fun Most moms keep a scrapbook to record their children’s “first”, but this mom got to have her own “first”. Sometimes the best things in life really are free. anél lewis
w
e recently spent some time at the coast and I was struck once again by how reliant our children have become on external – often digital – stimulation to keep them entertained. For the initial day or so, I found myself constantly explaining to Conor that yes, there was no Wi-Fi, and no, there would be no screen time. The first trip to the beach drew mixed reviews from my city slicker children. “There’s so much sand,” wailed Erin. “Erm … well yes, that’s what distinguishes the beach from a park,” I mumbled to myself as we walked the 300 metres to the sea. “My feet are too sore to carry my bodyboard,” moaned Conor. I gritted my teeth and told myself that the pure,
unadulterated joy of being in the surf would put an end to their moaning. It did – but it also silenced my own inner voice that had been shouting out negative thoughts throughout the year. As I found myself whooshing (okay, bobbing may be more apt) towards the beach on a wave, I could feel the stress and tension of the past year ebb away. It was my first time on a bodyboard, and I loved every exhilarating second. Aside from the rush of being able to make it to the shore in one piece, there was something magical about being able to share it with Conor and Erin as they flew past me on their boards. Erin’s laugh could be heard above the crash of the waves,
family marketplace
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magazine | cape town March/April/May 2019
Craig, Conor, Erin and Anél
and I watched as Conor’s confidence grew with each successful surf. There was no talk of iPads or Minecraft. It was just us and the sea. The rest of the holiday included similar simple pursuits. Conor got stuck into some house painting (with actual paint and not little blocks in an online game) and Erin and her friend rode their bikes to a nearby grass patch for an impromptu picnic of grapes and warm Oros. No bells and whistles, no fancy apps and shiny toys. And the verdict on the drive home after this blissful break? “Can we come back here for our next holiday?” Anél Lewis is taking surfing lessons on the sly, so that she can keep up with the rest of the family when they visit the coast again.
books
a good read Books make great gifts. Here is our selection of new releases for all ages and stages. The Purrfect Pawse By Avril McDonald (Crownhouse, R200) This book uses rhythm, rhyme and repetition to encourage children to take a pause, stretch out and unwind with Catreen the cat. Its beautiful verse brings to life pleasant imagery that connects them with the wonders of nature. The gentle stretching activity is an ideal example of a “daily dose” of emotional wellbeing that children can effortlessly learn and incorporate into their day. Ages 4–7
Angry Owl and His Tree By Kerryn Ponter (Penguin Random House, R70) One morning our favourite owl woke up to discover that the lovely leaves on his tree were changing colour. He realised that it meant that autumn was on the way, and he felt sad. But gradually he noticed the fun the other birds were having with the crunchy leaves. This book presents the changing of the seasons to young children in a charming manner, accompanied by the most delightful illustrations. Ages 2–6
Once Upon a Rhinoceros By Avril van der Merwe (Penguin Random House, R50) Rhinoceros has a magnificent horn, which all the animals admire. All, that is, except Hippo. Hippo is jealous of Rhino’s horn, and desperately wants one of her own. While Rhino is asleep, Hippo steals her horn and sets it on her snout. But Hippo quickly discovers that wearing a large and heavy horn brings more problems than rewards. Hippo learns there is no room in the world for jealousy. Ages 3–6
The Blacksmith and the Dragonfly By Riana Louw & Charles Siboto (Human & Rousseau, R160) Ndiliswa dreams of becoming the commander of the royal army. But she is the poor daughter of a blacksmith. Prince Siyabulela is transformed into a dragonfly by a wicked spell and barely escapes with his life. Can Ndiliswa defeat the evil forces to save the prince? Ages 4–9
Goldilocks and the Three Rhinos By Joan Rankin (Jacana, R110) A classic tale brought to life through magical illustrations. It is retold with an African flair to inspire and grow a love of reading in our children. Join Goldilocks as she stumbles across the Rhino family’s home, unknowingly dabbling in their daily activities, and the hilarity that follows. Ages 2–6
Tiger Walk By Dianne Hofmeyr (Tafelberg, R150) A lyrical story about overcoming childhood fears. Tom draws a tiger, inspired by his visit to the art gallery. That night, when Tom can’t sleep, the tiger pads out of his drawing and purrs: “Let’s go for a walk!” Tom is afraid, but the tiger’s presence is reassuring as they set off into the forest. One by one, Tom’s fears are allayed by the tiger, and when the journey is over, back home in his bed, Tom falls peacefully asleep. Ages 1–6
Exploring the Seashore in Southern Africa By Margo Branch (Penguin Random House, R99) With this lively guide, young adventurers will discover the many treasures along southern Africa’s shores, learn all about the strange and beautiful creatures they can expect to see at the beach and where to find them, then try the fascinating activities and make their own first-hand discoveries. Ages 6–12 47