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father’s day! 21 june 2015
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June 2015
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all-new bumper birthday guide themes that inspire & excite playing the perfect host surviving the party circuit
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Hunter House P U B L I S H I N G
Publisher
At last, it’s our annual “Let’s Party” issue!
Lisa Mc Namara • lisa@childmag.co.za
My daughters’ birthdays are two of the happiest days in the year for me, and I always try my best to make them special so they can remember each one. Over the years I have found that the simplest birthday parties are often the most memorable and successful. So, for our reinvented party issue, we have tried to round up the best of the best – awesome themes to inspire you, treats and party décor that you can recreate with ease, and delicious treats that are super simple. And none of it has to cost you the earth. We know that birthday parties are not always a walk in the park. As invites take over what used to look like your fridge door, the feeling of “how do we fit it all in?” quickly grows. Luckily, Samantha Page has got it all under control in “surviving the party circuit” (page 16). So now it’s time to sit back with a cup of tea and page through the wonderful world of birthdays. Let us inspire you for when it’s time to celebrate the birth of your child.
Editorial Managing Editor Marina Zietsman • marina@childmag.co.za Features Editor Marc de Chazal • features@childmag.co.za Resource Editor Tamlyn Vincent • durban@childmag.co.za Editorial Assistant Lucille Kemp • capetown@childmag.co.za Copy Editor Debbie Hathway
Art Designers Nikki-leigh Piper • studio@childmag.co.za Mark Vincer • studio3@childmag.co.za Louise Topping • studio@childmag.co.za
Advertising Lisa Mc Namara • lisa@childmag.co.za
Client Relations Renee Bruning • dbnsales@childmag.co.za
Subscriptions and Circulation Nicolene Baldy • subs@childmag.co.za
PUBLISHER’S PHOTOGRAPH: BROOKE FASANI
Accounts Nicolene Baldy • admin@childmag.co.za Tel: 021 465 6093 • Fax: 021 462 2680
Lisa Mc Namara, Publisher
PS
Dads, we haven’t forgotten about you this month. We hope you enjoy our focus on dads and daughters (page 10). We’ve also thrown in a round-up of some of the best family cars on the road for good measure (page 12). Sincere apologies to my husband (also a wonderful dad)… we couldn’t find a spot for the Jaguar F-Type. Happy Father’s Day!
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that may arise from reading them.
magazine durban
June 2015
3
contents june 2015
20 3 a note from lisa
regulars
6 over to you readers respond
8 pregnancy news – lean on me dads can play a significant role in supporting their pregnant partners. Lee Farrell tells us how
features 10 dads and daughters Angus Begg explains why the father-daughter relationship is so important
12 the best family cars on the road Will Sinclair rounds up some of the latest and best buys on the market
15 classroom celebrations before taking the birthday party to the classroom, consider the school’s rules. By Tamlyn Vincent
16 surviving the party circuit Samantha Page gives advice on how to politely decline party invitations
18 party central hosting your child’s party at your home? Tamlyn Vincent gives practical tips for a smooth day
9 best for baby – i spy using a spy camera to keep tabs on your nanny is becoming increasingly popular. Anél Lewis looks at the pros and cons
14 dealing with difference – parties with a difference Deirdre Gower gives tips on celebrating the birthday of a child with special needs
20 resource – it’s party time our party guide has a brand-new look. For tons of inspiration and ideas, keep this guide handy. Compiled by Tamlyn Vincent
29 a good read for the whole family 30 what’s on in june 34 finishing touch Anél Lewis’ son brings her gifts at midnight. She just hopes he sticks to toys...
health 7 when food bites back Marina Zietsman looks at food allergies and how to deal with them
classified ads 33 family marketplace
this month’s cover images are supplied by: Joburg
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June 2015
Cape Town
Durban
Pretoria
Belle’s Patisserie
Marshmallow Images
Sarah-Jane Photography
Megan Hancock Photography
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magazine durban
magazine durban
June 2015
5
letters
over to you online comments in response to “when is weird child behaviour the norm?” I have an eight year old who recently came out of her bedroom crying and said she couldn’t sleep in her room with her pillows, because they are red. And then last night before bed she said, in a pouting tone, she didn’t want her flip-flops in her room while she slept. She had worn the flip-flops all day to school and then we went out for dinner and a movie, but it wasn’t until bedtime that they became an issue. I asked her why and she told me repeatedly that she doesn’t know. I let her leave the flip-flops in the hallway and that’s where they remain. It’s hard to tell if this is alarming behaviour... Anonymous My daughter is almost five years old. She is usually a happy and very intelligent child, but she has frequent tantrums, is destructive, and is extremely defiant. She is fine as long as my attention is solely on her, but as soon as I get a phone call or need to do housework, she destroys Follow us on twitter.com/ChildMag, facebook.com/childmag.co.za and pinterest.com/childmagazine
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June 2015
Let us know what’s on your mind. Send your letters or comments to marina@childmag.co.za or PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010.
things around the house. The most disturbing thing, however, was when I made a point of spending much of the day playing with her one on one. I thought it did some good because she played quietly in her room while I cooked dinner. After dinner I found a knife hidden in her bed and a doll that she had stabbed in the stomach 20 to 30 times. I don’t even know what to think or do about this. Anonymous in response to “working mom’s guilt” I read your reader’s blog on working mother’s guilt syndrome). I hope I don’t have it. My second-born always wants me to dedicate all my attention to her schoolwork or what she was up to at school during the day. I normally do pay attention, but there are times when I am talking to her older brother or helping him with his homework and ask her to wait her turn, and she will leave with an “it’s fine, never mind”. That is when I feel guilty for not being there for her all the time. But this is at her brother’s cost, because then I shift my attention to her.
I’m trying to make up for the time I’m not with her or when I’ve been busy with my own studies after work or with cooking supper or baking. I always feel like I should spend more time with my children. I end up committing myself to other activities, which are not easy to fit into my schedule and I end up a little bit frustrated because of the pressures I put myself under. I have been trying to get my children to be more independent and more responsible so that they do some things on their own and I’ve explained that I will spend time with them whenever possible. They really like going out with me, even just to the park to get some air – they appreciate it so much. The feeling of being appreciated is rewarding, especially after dedicating some time to your children. Esther subscribe to our newsletter and win Our wins have moved online. Please subscribe to our newsletter and enter our weekly competitions. To subscribe, visit childmag.co.za
We reserve the right to edit and shorten submitted letters. The opinions reflected here are those of our readers and are not necessarily held by Hunter House Publishing.
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magazine durban
health
when
food
bites back
PHOTOGRAPH: shutterstock.com
Allergies are increasing throughout the world and many children, especially, suffer from food allergies. MARINA ZIETSMAN gets advice on how to best deal with the problem.
magazine durban
t
he majority of food allergies in children are not severe, and will be outgrown with time, but they can get in the way of your child’s ability to sleep well, play normally, and function at school. The eight foods that account for most of these allergies are cow’s milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, soy and wheat.
the signs Most serious food allergies start in infancy and early childhood, and many parents don’t even know their child has a food allergy until they end up in the emergency room. In a broader sense, parents should be aware that food allergies are more common among children who come from families where other members suffer from allergies, and also that babies who suffer from eczema are more prone to develop food allergies. In most cases the allergy affects the skin, gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts, but in serious cases also the cardiovascular system. Dr Sarah Karabus, a Cape Town paediatrician and allergologist, points out the immediate signs, which are reactions that usually occur within minutes of eating the particular food, but can sometimes take up to two hours before becoming visible. “The most common symptoms would be hives or wheals (an extremely itchy red rash),” says Karabus. “With more severe reactions, there may be diarrhoea and vomiting.” In extreme cases there may be breathing problems, such as coughing, wheezing, voice changes or anaphylaxis. Karabus also warns against confusing food allergies with food intolerance. “Food intolerance doesn’t involve the immune system,” she says, “which means no antibodies develop against the food as they would with an allergy.” Food intolerance is rarely life-threatening.
be alert “The first step would be to give the child an antihistamine,” says Karabus, “but if the child is known to have a severe allergy, the parent might also give an adrenaline injection into the thigh.” Thereafter, you should go to the closest emergency room, she adds. The best measure of precaution, though, is education – for the parents, the child if they are old enough, the family, and all the caregivers, including school staff. “Everyone must be taught to read food labels, to determine which foods are likely to contain a particular ingredient,” says Karabus. She adds that emergency medications must always be available, even at school. The law has changed and teachers are now allowed to administer medication. Parents can get a form from their healthcare practitioner that gives written permission for teachers to act.
back-up Karabus also gives the following advice: • If your child is allergic to a food from a major group, such as milk, supplements must be given so that the child does not develop any nutritional deficiencies. • It is useful to consult a dietician trained in the management of childhood food allergies. • Children often outgrow certain food allergies, so it’s important to let your paediatrician or allergologist retest your child every few months in order to determine if that food can be reintroduced into the diet. • Children rarely outgrow a fish allergy and only 20% of children will outgrow a peanut allergy. • If tests show that the allergy levels are decreasing, a “food challenge” should be performed whereby the food is given in incremental amounts according to specific guidelines, in a controlled hospital setting.
June 2015
7
lean on me
Many men find pregnancy bewildering, but they can play a meaningful role by supporting their pregnant partners. LEE FARRELL, father to two
y
young children, shares some pointers.
our pregnant partner will grow a lot larger in the coming turmoilfilled months that lie before you, but supporting her has nothing to do with working out regularly or knowing a reasonable forklift-hire company. There’s more to the support that she will require from you than doing all the heavy lifting around the house. So, if you didn’t manage
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June 2015
to complete that PhD in female psychology before you both decided to have a child, here are a few pointers to help you play your part.
is in the same category as those 24-hour helplines, except you are the only operator – there are no shifts to take over from you.
keep calm There’s a good chance that you will both experience some form of anxiety. That’s normal. But even if you imagine your personal anxiety to border on severe, your partner’s angst will be far greater. Your nervousness will stem from the fact that you think Satan has moved into your home. Your partner’s paranoia, on the other hand, stems from many more sources. She may feel guilty when she briefly realises that she has, in fact, turned into Satan, but these will only be fleeting moments, as she will then swiftly blame you for this outcome.
tell her she’s beautiful Your partner may be overcome with absurd notions that you will find her increasingly ugly as her body grows and morphs into a fully-fledged, gas-producing pregnant mammal. She will require continuous reassurance from you that this is not the case. But a word of caution: demonstrating the effects that she still has on your manhood is not always the best course of action. Maybe a cuddle and some positive words would be better suited.
24-hour helpline To begin with, most of the support you need to give to your partner is emotional and based on service. The emotional support
help around the house Your partner will be extremely tired from now until your child eventually leaves
home. Taking over a few more of the household chores would be great support for her, giving her time to enjoy a relaxing bath or just put her feet up with a good book. As she gets larger, the physical support you were so eager to administer will become relevant. It will mostly involve helping her to get up and occasionally having to do menial tasks such as tying her shoelaces, painting her toenails or clipping them for her.
Most of the support you need to give to your partner is emotional and based on service. be present In a nutshell, the support that your partner requires during her pregnancy is for you to take an active and interested role in the whole ordeal. Carrying a child for nine months and eventually giving birth is something men will never experience. But that doesn’t mean we cannot be there with the person who is doing the real hard work, holding her hand and telling her she is wonderful and capable during the course of this amazing journey that you have chosen to share with each other.
magazine durban
PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
pregnancy news
best for baby
i spy Modern technology makes it easy for parents to monitor their nanny’s activities, but are spy cameras the only way we can keep our children safe? ANÉL LEWIS weighs up the pros and cons of letting Big Brother into your home.
d
isturbing footage of a Ugandan nanny abusing a toddler went viral recently, sparking widespread alarm among parents who rely on others to watch their children when they can’t. The abuse was captured by a camera – or a nanny cam – that had secretly been installed by the two-year-old’s father. When I saw the video, my first thought was: what would have happened if that nanny was not caught on camera? It’s a sobering thought, and one that probably crosses most parents’ minds when they leave their children in the care of someone else. But does the fear of what goes on in our homes when we’re not there warrant the installation of a hidden camera?
But most of the mothers said they would let their nanny know about the camera. Cape Town mother, Sara, who did not want to give her surname, says: “Having had a wonderful nanny who we let go for admission of neglect and suspicion of theft, I would definitely not hire a nanny again unless we had nanny cams. Make it part of her contract.” Pops Johnson of SpyShop SA, an online supplier of surveillance equipment, says his company has experienced a massive uptake in sales in recent months. He says the queries were not just for nanny cams but for general surveillance equipment. “The incident [of the toddler]
I think a nanny cam exacerbates a mother’s worry about leaving her child in safe hands. It certainly does not assist in building a trusting relationship with your nanny.
PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com
all in favour I posed the question to a mothers’ Facebook group and was surprised at the overwhelming support for installing a nanny cam. While few had actually set up cameras in their homes, most said they would consider it if they had any doubts about their children’s safety. Mandy Erasmus, a Cape Town mother of two, says: “If you have suspicions, then ease your mind. The last thing you want is to say ‘I should have’.” magazine durban
has increased people’s awareness of what dodgy things can happen when they’re not at home.” Karin Thomsen of a nanny agency says that while the security companies selling surveillance equipment have reported a surge in sales after the Ugandan nanny footage went viral, she’s not seen a notable increase in clients actually going through with the installation of nanny cams in their homes.
spy vs law
types of nanny cams
Ivan Israelstam, chief executive officer of Labour Law Management Consulting in Joburg, says: “In my view cameras at workplaces are legal provided the employer has documentary proof that the nanny knows there is a camera – even if she does not know where it is.” However, he says that the law does not automatically prohibit the use of the footage even if the nanny does not know about the camera. Thomsen is firm that employees should not be filmed without their knowledge. “While it may not be illegal to film your nanny, every nanny deserves the right to know if they are being filmed,” she says. “If not, it’s the equivalent of eavesdropping on a private conversation. Morally that’s not right and it’s a breach of trust.” Thomsen says the nannies at her agency say they generally do not mind having a camera in the house, as long as they are told about it in advance. “They feel massively insulted if they are not told,” she says. One of her nannies says that, as a mother, she understands parents’ concerns. South Africa’s Constitution and Bill of Rights protect the right to privacy. In terms of labour legislation, due consideration must be given to an employee’s privacy if surveillance cameras are in place, and it’s not advisable to place cameras in changing rooms or bathrooms.
Johnson says new technology is released almost every week and you can now get cameras as small as a 10 cent piece. The cameras come in all shapes and sizes too, I was surprised to learn. The archetypal nanny cam hidden in an old teddy bear has been overtaken by nifty gadgets such as tissue boxes, alarm clocks, mirrors, car keys and even aerosol cans that contain mini cameras. Nanny Cam SA, another online supplier, explains on its website that self-recording cameras are easy to set up, but will only allow you to view footage after it has been recorded. A wireless streaming camera, however, will allow you to watch the video live from another location. Most cameras can stream the information to your smartphone. IP or internet protocol cameras can send and receive information via a computer network. You can also get night vision or infrared cameras that will record in darkness or low light.
a necessary evil? Thomsen believes that unless you have had a particularly negative experience with a nanny, a camera is not the only option for peace of mind. “Personally, I think a nanny cam exacerbates a mother’s worry about leaving her child in safe hands. It certainly does not assist in building a trusting relationship with your nanny.” Thomsen says it’s more important to choose the right person, and to use a reputable agency when hiring a nanny or au pair. This means that proper background checks are done. Parents should also contact a nanny’s most recent references. “Speak to the mothers and ask, ‘Would you hire her again?’.” If the mother hesitates, you will have your answer, says Thomsen. It’s also important to know the health of your nanny, as this could affect her behaviour at any stage. But always trust your instincts. If you suspect something is going on, ask a neighbour or friend to pop in unexpectedly, or change your working hours so you can get home at a different time, advises Thomsen. And if you really suspect foul play, then a nanny cam may be considered. “On the basis that it would not help to build a trusting relationship, I would never advise a mother to start out with a nanny cam. However, if you were feeling uneasy, or had reason to suspect your nanny of mistreating your child, then I would certainly support the use of a nanny cam,” she says.
finding the right one Johnson says you need to tell the security company or consultant exactly what your needs are, as this will determine the type of camera you should buy. The cost of the unit will vary depending on the specifications. • How many cameras do you need and where do you want them placed? Cameras can be placed in any room in the house, but preferably not in bathrooms. • Would you prefer a wireless unit? • Nanny Cam SA recommends a battery-operated camera if you’re concerned about your recording being affected by electricity disruptions. • Will you want to watch the footage later, or do you want it to be streamed to your computer or smartphone in real time? • Will you need to monitor activities at night or in low light as well?
June 2015
9
parenting
dads and daughters ANGUS BEGG considers the immeasurable value of fathers who forge a close, positive relationship with their daughters.
I think daughters can benefit from seeing their dads fulfil unconventional roles or express complex emotions. For every one of the roughly 10 occasions that I saw my girl at a cafécum-park on the slopes of Table Mountain (an odd situation arrived at by lawyers in the absence of a parenting agreement), with her mother inside the restaurant, she would say, “Take me up the mountain, Daddy.” Aware that she observes her brother’s interest in “climbing” – I take him to an indoor climbing wall – I would answer yes, fully aware that it may be a battle to get the necessary permission.
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June 2015
Family and school counsellor Anne Cawood, who has three adult daughters of her own, says bonding between fathers and daughters, whatever their culture*, is crucial to development. “The dad relationship is incredibly important,” says Cawood. “Girls who have a really well-bonded relationship with their dads are set up positively for all future relationships, especially with the opposite sex, because Dad has shown them they are precious and special, and that impacts positively on their self-esteem too.”
hands on All too often, fathers don’t see their daughters enough. This may be because as absent parents they’re just not interested, but it may also be because the mother uses the child as a weapon and prevents him from seeing them. I know a number of single mothers who can’t get the fathers of their children to show any interest in them. Cawood says mothers have an important role to play here: “Moms should actively encourage it, and Dad should pick up on it. I’ve seen with my own children, the bond created then still exists, and my daughters are in their 40s.” According to Cawood, being a mother doesn’t mean you’re the better parent. “I’ve seen dads who are better empathisers than mothers.” Cape Town father Greg Andrews is a divorced dad of two girls, aged eight and six, who spend two nights a week with him. While he doesn’t believe a balance of parents and gender is necessary for “optimal mental health”, he does recognise the father’s role in giving them confidence, and interpreting their world. “One important dynamic fathers and other male role models can help with, especially, is in making sense of a patriarchal society,” says Greg. “I think daughters can benefit from seeing their dads fulfil unconventional roles or express complex emotions.” A day’s flight across the world, in Albuquerque, USA, Len Romano is the happily married Anglo-Italian father of magazine durban
PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
i
’m leaning against the tyre of my vehicle on the pavement, book in hand, with my legs spread out. My three-year-old daughter, purple-and-white cupcake icing smeared around her mouth, says: “I want to sit there, Daddy,” and plonks herself upon my thighs, giggling. “Slinky Malinki was blacker than black, a stalking and lurking adventurous cat.” Having probably read the story of the devious and thieving feline yourselves a few times, many of you will know where his “bright yellow eyes” and “warbling wail” fit into the next few lines. It’s a special thing, a dad knowing and responding to his children’s needs, whether reading their favourite stories or putting them on his shoulders. And while I thoroughly enjoy doing the traditionally accepted “man stuff” with my son – like climbing rocks and running screaming into the sea – when my little girl wants to clamber over boulders or is scared of the sea, I need to be there to give her the confidence and reassurance to accomplish what is for her a huge task. At least, that’s what the books say.
two blossoming girls – aged 11 and 13. I met Len while odd-jobbing in Greece two decades back and we have remained friends. He echoes Greg’s point about helping girls navigate a largely patriarchal world: “A sensitive and caring father is uniquely equipped to guide and educate his daughter about the forces that drive men and the male point of view in our culture. As fathers we all want to send our daughters out into the world as confident, strong, smart and bold yet kind women.”
A sensitive and caring father is uniquely equipped to guide and educate his daughter about the forces that drive men and the male point of view in our culture. quality counts It’s two days shy of a month now, as I write, since I last saw my daughter, reading to her on that pavement. It was her birthday, and without a court order in place to ensure my parental rights, we ended up sitting outside her mother’s house, while she was at work, sharing cupcakes. The hurt of imagining that my little girl, who shouts “Daddy, Daddy” when running over to me, feels I’ve abandoned her – when I want to see her every single day – is sometimes so very hard to bear. And perhaps it’s pointless trying to explain to parents reading this. So I try to take comfort in those who say “quality is better than quantity”. “They do remember,” says Cawood. “If for whatever reason you aren’t allowed to see her anymore, those little grab moments are what build the relationship. But because a three year old’s memory is short, they need frequent little visits.” magazine durban
Much like the shiny bits of paper with which I wrapped her kitty-cat purse and tiny cupcakes, so I have found there is a silver lining to this parenting predicament. This situation has brought with it a focus on my children that quite possibly would have been a little more blurry otherwise, being simply one of yet two more parents rushing through the motions of daily life. I now think and read and learn about my girl, probably more than I would have in a “normal”, two-parent household. I think of what we can and will do when we are together. My dream gift would be going for a drive with both my children in the same car, going up the mountain, to the beach, watching a movie on TV – just “being” together. To be honest, I had no idea previously, beyond the obvious feeding, nurturing and support roles, what I should be offering our daughter. Via a Facebook post he made last year, my mate Len unwittingly gave a hint of what is possible. It was the news that on her 13th birthday his daughter Angelina played her own piano composition live on stage in Albuquerque. Knowing the man as I do, I have little doubt his support and love was instrumental in getting her up there. Granted, that support possibly wouldn’t have been there without the love and understanding that he receives from his wife Donna but, for me, and all dads in a similar situation, it’s something worth aiming for, along with the privilege of being with her through boyfriends, activities, bedtime stories and the matter of feminine fact that is the notorious PMT. It’s all part of the package, something parents should ideally do together (hence the term coparenting). Cawood agrees: “By mom encouraging the relationship with the dad, she’s giving the child the best possible chance to forge well-balanced relationships in the future.” *Psychologically, while respecting different practices – in some cultures fathers almost pull away when a child is born – the same basic needs and principles apply, such as that all children need their dads from a young age. June 2015
11
motoring
the best family cars on the road When it comes to picking a new car for your family, it doesn’t only have to be about safety and packing space. By WILL SINCLAIR
land rover discovery sport
toyota etios 1.5Xi the sedan for families who get around As the spiritual successor to the Tazz, the Etios punches above its weight as a budget B-segment sedan. Sure, the interior is plasticky; sure, it’s a little noisy; and okay, the centrally-arranged speedometer takes some getting used to… but as a family sedan, you have to love its boot space, which lets you comfortably fit in shopping, prams and weekend getaway gear. (At least, you should fit it all in.) dads will like The surprisingly zippy engine (0–100 in 11,3 seconds) and the wallet-friendly claimed fuel consumption (5.9 litres/100km). moms will like The enormous 595-litre boot. Price from R138 900
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June 2015
the five-seater that’s actually a seven-seater This one’s a winner for small families who want three rows of seats, but don’t need all the space of a full-sized MPV. The flexible seating adds in two seats right at the back – and while they’re really only big enough for children to sit comfortably, those extra seats are heaven-sent on a long, nerve-jangling family drive. dads will like The surprisingly (for a minivan) agile handling and responsive steering. moms will like The sliding doors, which provide easy access in crowded parking lots. Price from R268 900
nissan juke acenta 1.2-litre turbo the unclassifiable crossover It’s a super-mini-SUV… or something like that. The Juke is tough to classify, because it looks like nothing else on the road. It’s best to think of it as a crossover, combining the features of a car and an SUV. Once you get past the looks, the engine – borrowed from its cousin the Qashqai – offers excellent performance thanks to the Juke’s smaller size and lighter weight. dads will like The head-turning looks (because sometimes dads are just that shallow). moms will like The brisk performance and the six-speed manual gearbox (because moms also like to pretend they’re racing drivers). Price from R254 900
chrysler grand voyager 2.8-litre CRD limited the seven-seater for parents who’ll pay anything for their children’s comfort Check the specs, and you’ll read “Seating Capacity: 7”. Sounds good… but that’s only the start. Depending how you fold the seats, the cargo capacity goes from 934 to 3 912 litres – which will comfortably fit the pram, bassinette, rocking chair, crib, bed, cupboards and other marriedwith-children paraphernalia. dads will love The spacious interior, which lets you travel with the family without having them sitting on top of you. moms will love The Swivel ’n Go system, where the two middle chairs swivel around so the children can face each other across a table. Pricing from R674 990
magazine durban
PHOTOGRAPHS: SUPPLIED
w
hen you become a parent, buying a new car takes on a whole world of complications. Instead of “top speed”, “road-holding” and “ability to navigate S-bends while your mates get rowdy in the back”, you’re faced with grown-up concerns like “safety” and “space” and (ugh!) “convenience”. Here’s a look at some of the best family cars on the market. Take a read, then take a test drive… and you’ll find that just because you have a family, doesn’t mean you can’t still have fun.
the new land rover Despite what the name suggests, this is not a new Land Rover Discovery; instead, it’s a replacement for the Freelander, and an entirely new brand all of its own. It’ll be priced cheaper than the Range Rover (when it hits the South African market in mid-2015), and while it has a few hi-tech bells and whistles (like the 8-inch touchscreen on the dash), it’s designed to be able to comfortably and capably go off-road if it has to. It is a Land Rover, after all. dads will like The fact that it’s a Land Rover (unless he’s a Jeep man). moms will like The 5+2 seating set-up, which adds a third row of seats for bigger children. Price TBC
mazda 5 2.0 original
volkswagen caravelle 2.0BiTDI 4Motion DSG the bus for us Browse through the VW catalogue and you’ll find the California, the Kombia and the Caravelle. And while the latter may feel it has “Mom’s Taxi” stamped on its proverbial forehead, it remains one of the best family cars on the road. If you’re a big family (or a small family with big luggage) and you like to travel, this one’s worth the investment. dads will love The way it drives. It should feel like a van; instead it feels like a really big sedan. moms will love The fully automatic Climatronic threezone aircon system, which means you’re not stuck hearing about “driver comfort” while you sit freezing or sweating. Price from R706 400
ford ecoSport 1.5 GTDi titanium the fabulously functional ford Look, this one’s a bit of an ugly duckling. It’s high (as a compact SUV, it has a small base and a tall body), not all that wide, and not terribly handsome… but boy, is it useful. You’re looking at 20 storage compartments, from the cooled glove box to the drawer beneath the passenger seat. There is also plenty of boot space, and a rear seat that can fit three adults, making it incredibly easy to load yourself, your gear, your car seat and your child. dads will like The 362 litres of load space (expandable to 705 litres). They might not like the weird, sideways-opening hinged rear door, though. moms will like The ISOFIX childseat anchors, which keep little ones safely in place. Price from R259 900
volvo XC60 the safety-first crossover This entry-level luxury crossover has been Volvo’s top-selling car for the past five years, and it’s not difficult to see why. The safety rating is off the charts, with a standard kit including front and side airbags, cabinlength window airbags and anti-whiplash front head restraints. This sounds like the kind of car you’d want to drive your family around in. dads will like With a few seatback adjustments, the cargo space, which expands from 495 to 1 455 litres… and then even more, when you fold down the front passenger seat for extra packing space. moms will like The City Safety system, which (at speeds up to 35km/h) activates a warning buzzer if you’re about to hit an object. If you don’t respond, it’ll brake for you. Price from R538 300
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June 2015
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dealing with difference
recommends strong bowls instead of paper plates. “Keep loose tablecloths to a minimum – serve food on a clean plastic or wooden table,” she says. Let parents know what is being served to allow them to bring any special food with them.
venue and activities
time
Choose a venue with the birthday child in mind. If your child is wheelchair-bound, all areas of the venue should be accessible and safe. A party in a playground where the other children are running around and climbing may make your child feel left out on their special day. Petting zoos or pony rides allow children to be included, with some help from a parent. Mini-train rides are also a fantastic choice. A party at home may be easier if your child needs to retreat to their room for a while. Marna Lloyd, a Cape Town party planner, suggests activities like face painting, a magician or a balloon twister. For a child with autism, Debbie Flugel of the Autism Enrichment Centre and mom to Jarred, who has classic autism, advises to “keep the noise level and visual stimulation down to a minimum to help concentration and to enable the child to interact and engage with others. A safe and fully enclosed garden where they can freely walk around is a good idea.”
Children cope differently, so monitor their limits. Damian can handle long parties, but Debbie says one-and-a-half hours is more than enough for Jarred. “There’s no point in pushing them to stay longer – especially if Mom and child are feeling stressed and pressured socially,” she says. Marna says it’s more important that your child has a wonderful hour, than a good one followed by two painful hours trying to calm them.
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June 2015
parties with a difference Planning a party for children with special needs can be tricky. DEIRDRÉ GOWER gives us some tips. As with all children, those with special needs often have sensitivities. My disabled son, Damian, doesn’t like anyone singing “Happy Birthday” to him. It is important to warn other parents and children of this before bringing out the cake.
food Some children have food intolerances. These may include gluten, dairy, sugar and food
additives. Lightly salted chips, popcorn, crudités with dips, fruit kebabs, chicken pieces, fruit juice lollies, and a gluten-free cake and cupcakes are all safer options. Nutritional therapist Heidi du Preez says: “Opt for home-made iced teas by mixing rooibos with a small amount of fruit juice (ratio 4:1).” If your child needs a special cup to drink from, remember to pack it. Debbie
gifts It can be challenging for other parents to choose something manageable. Clothes or money are practical choices, but not always the most exciting to unwrap. Consider including a list of favourites with your invitation. Most importantly, remember to have fun. Keep your child the focus of the party and don’t stress if things don’t go as planned. Gauge your child’s enjoyment and let that lead the day’s activities.
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PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
p
lanning a party is both exciting and daunting. Whether your own child has a special need, or if you are inviting a differently-abled child, there are extra considerations to make the celebration memorable and as stress-free as possible.
education
classroom celebrations Celebrating a birthday at school helps children feel special, but there are things that need to be considered. By TAMLYN VINCENT
PHOTOGRAPH: shutterstock.com
b
irthdays are a time to feel special, so it’s encouraging when schools celebrate with the birthday child. She’ll have songs sung to her or be given a special crown to wear. But birthday celebrations at school don’t just happen. They take planning, by teachers and parents, and it’s always important to think about what’s best for the children.
and causes less disruption to the school day. As school routine is important, parents who do join the birthday celebration need to check what time is best for the teacher and children. Teachers may like the birthday ring to happen at the start of the day, saving the treats for snacktime, or at the end when children won’t become too distracted.
school rules
special treats
Each school will have its own policy about celebrating birthdays during school hours. Some allow parents to join the birthday ring, while others prefer parents not to attend, as not all parents can make it. Greater parental involvement may be expected for younger children’s parties, so it’s always best to speak to the teacher about what can and can’t be done. At Parkview Junior School in Joburg, they like to make a fuss of the birthday child, and ask parents to book a day with them to ensure there aren’t two birthdays on the same day, says Grade R teacher Marika Tannahill. Parents aren’t invited to stay, but they can drop off treats for the class. Birthdays are a happy celebration for the child and everyone in their class, say Marlese Naudé and Debbie McLaughlin, from Lea Pre-Primary in Cape Town. But it takes pressure off parents when they don’t need to attend,
Cupcakes are advisable, says Tannahill, who prefers these to cream cakes or ice cream. If parents do send a big cake, it should be cut beforehand, and items like plates and serviettes supplied. Chips, sweets, lollipops, ice-cream cones or party packs aren’t allowed at Lea Pre-Primary, but cupcakes, biscuits and crunchies are welcome, so double-check your catering parameters. The school keeps it simple, especially as children also have their own lunch to eat. If your school does allow party packs, they should all be the same and there should be enough for everyone, says Tannahill. Parents should also be mindful of any allergies, especially nut allergies, when sending in treats. Small, hard sweets aren’t a good idea. But you could provide a snack pack and juice, with each child’s name on it. Lea PrePrimary has the added option of allowing children to donate a book to the school library, to mark the special occasion.
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Sending out invitations at school also needs careful consideration. Some schools only allow you to hand out invitations in class if the entire class is invited. Otherwise they ask that you send an email or hand out invitations personally. Tannahill doesn’t think it’s necessary to invite the whole class, as parties can be expensive, but if only a few children are invited, she asks parents to be sensitive about this. Naudé and McLaughlin ask that parents put invitations in sealed envelopes, with names on each one. “Children are quick to identify invitations,” they say, “and there is inevitably disappointment for those not invited, so invitations should be opened at home.” No matter how you and your child’s teacher plan on making their big day even more special, it is essential to talk, plan and consider everyone.
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party etiquette
surviving the party circuit Children’s birthday parties are no longer the simple cupcake-and-balloon affairs of our childhood. Some parents find it hard to keep up with the volume of invitations while others aren’t sure how to decline without causing offence. SAMANTHA PAGE guides you through the busy party circuit.
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June 2015
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PHOTOGRAPHS / illustrations: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
m
y son could barely sit by himself when his first birthday party invitation arrived. I had been attending a moms-and-babes playgroup for just two weeks when an enthusiastic mother handed out bright blue envelopes with a Thomas the Tank Engine seal to everyone at the end of class. I didn’t know her that well, but I felt obligated to attend – partly because she “sold” it so well (“I’d love to see you; it will be a wonderful opportunity to connect with other new moms going through sleep training”), and partly because I, naively, thought it would be rude to decline such a heartfelt and kind invitation. It’s a fait accompli that from the moment your children start spending time with other children, whether at a playgroup, school, social or sports club, like Scouts or judo, you can be sure your weekends will start filling up with parties. “I definitely feel the pressure to accept all the invitations I receive because, today, parents put in a great deal of effort and some spend a fortune, too,” says Leila Petersen-Gallant, from Cape Town, mom to a two year old. Our supersize consumer culture has funnelled through to children’s birthday parties making them bigger, splashier and more expensive, which leaves many parents guilt-ridden about declining an invitation.
Last year, the parents of 5-year-old Alex, in Plymouth in the UK, were handed an invoice for missing a friend’s birthday party. Alex’s mom and dad had accepted the invitation to the Ski Slope and Snowboard Centre party, but had to change their plans at the last minute. The bill was sent home in the boy’s school bag and now the friends no longer play together. It makes you long for the days of simply blowing out candles in a darkened room with an out-of-tune “Happy Birthday” swelling in the background, doesn’t it? So, what etiquette should you follow when you decline? How do you decide which parties to attend or skip? And do you still give a gift if you’re not attending? Here are some guidelines to help prevent birthday party burnout:
I always RSVP, considering the time and expense involved, but never by text or email. I call because I think parents appreciate the show of respect.
how do you decide whether to accept or decline? “As a same-gender family, we think carefully about who our daughter Rebecca, 3, is exposed to and, in deciding which parties to attend, we try to ensure that our value system aligns to that of the playmate’s parents,” say Marlow and Douglas Newman-Valentine. “We always involve Rebecca in the discussion, and give preference to invites from girls she mentions often – the ones with whom she has a real connection.” Pro tip Try not to allow your guilt for all your late nights at the office, or your own competitiveness, trick you into accepting every invite. Let your child guide your decision. They instinctively know where they feel accepted and comfortable.
how do you RSVP without causing offence? “I always RSVP, considering the time and expense involved, but never by text or email. I call because I think parents appreciate the show of respect. I think sometimes I detect a note of relief when I decline because, for the hostess, it’s one less child and one less parent to entertain,” says Taweni Xaba, Durban mom of three. Pro tip Roughly translated, RSVP means “request for response”, so sit some parties out, but let parents know so they can plan their event accordingly. Lifescript.com suggests this as a possible script: “Thank you so much for the invitation. We are unable to attend, but
magazine durban
please tell [insert child’s name] to enjoy his party.” You are not obligated to give a reason for your lack of attendance, which saves you from stumbling through an excuse on the phone or in the school parking area.
how do you explain this to your child? “Occasionally my girls have to miss a party, but they know that family engagements, such as visits to Gogo, come first. I keep a schedule on the fridge and the first booked gets preference. We also have a rule that we are open to parties, not sleepovers, as my three girls are all under 10,” adds Taweni. Pro tip Declining an invitation for whatever reason is the perfect opportunity to teach your child an important life lesson: You won’t always be friends with everyone, but you should always be respectful and kind to others.
and what about giving a gift if you’ve declined? According to mamapedia.com, if it’s a very close friend or family member who would’ve received a gift anyway, it wouldn’t be out of place to send something small or even a card, but there’s no obligation if your child is not attending.
June 2015
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your party
party central
Hosting a party at home can be more convenient than somewhere else, but planning is key. TAMLYN VINCENT
a
looks at what you’ll need to do.
n invitation… for the same day we had planned for my son’s party. We rescheduled. Another invitation, another reschedule. We settled for a Sunday – good thing the party was at home. Final RSVPs came in the day before. It rained on the day and I spent the first hour boiling the kettle. After the logistical nightmare that was my son’s fifth birthday party, we said never again. But with his sixth birthday around the corner, we’re back to planning. At least this year I have some experience (gained from countless parties attended last year), and advice from moms and professionals.
so, what’s first? “Don’t make the same mistake as me. Give yourself about one-and-a-half months to plan,” says Suzanne Collinge-Sim, a party planner in Cape Town. “Look at dates first: You want to make sure the majority of your
friends. Consider what your child enjoys when deciding on entertainment. Art and crafts could suit your daughter, but your son may prefer a jumping castle. Also think about how much space you have, and what can fit in comfortably. Finally, have a plan B in case of rainy weather. This applies to the venue and the activities, says Van der Berg.
who’s coming? Party size can be difficult, says Durban planner Sonja Mellet. Often parents feel they should invite the entire class, but with friends and family this can mean lots of guests. Some moms say this is too much, and prefer inviting only a few friends. “The ideal number is 20 to 25 children,” notes Mellet. The entertainer can handle this, there is enough support for activities, and party shops often stock supplies in packs of 20.
guests can attend the party, “especially around holidays.” Choose a time that works for your child, like when he’ll be the least tired, and keep your party to two or three hours, she advises. Then decide on a theme with your child. If you’re lucky, he’s been planning this party since the last one, and has a Pinterest board full of ideas. Of course, this can change at the drop of a new movie, so talk about all the options and choose one that appeals and is easy enough to pull off. Decor for commercial themes can be a bit pricier, notes Collinge-Sim, but maybe get a few themed centrepieces and follow through in the colour scheme. When you start planning, take your child’s personality into account, says Joburg party organiser Oxana van der Berg. If they can handle big groups, invite the whole class, otherwise stick to select
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June 2015
Send out invitations about a month in advance, says Van der Berg. This gives you, and your guests, enough time to plan. Remember to include important details, such as “bring a costume and towel”. An RSVP date, giving you at least a week’s notice, is also important. Mellet says a big concern for parents is not getting RSVPs, so they don’t know how many children to expect. Send a reminder a week before, and plan a few extra party packs, just in case. Collinge-Sim advises that for children under six years old, the invitation is usually extended to parents and siblings, so request this information up front.
what am i missing? Rent what you can and visit a party shop, plan what food you’ll need and book your entertainment. Children love free play, and will want to show off magazine durban
PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
Don’t make the same mistake as me. Give yourself about one-and-a-half months to plan.
their homes, says Mellet, but you’ll also need entertainment for at least one hour. Activities could include lawn games, putting out a dress-up box or make-up station, or having water games in summer. If you’re booking entertainment, try a jumping castle, face painter, magician or clown, but not necessarily all of them. Time the entertainment. Van der Berg suggests that the face painter be there as guests arrive, while a magician can arrive an hour into the party. A princess character can either greet guests, or make a surprise entrance. One novel idea is to get a piñata and fill it with the party packs, for the final entertainment. Children need something more substantial to eat than chips and sweets, says Van der Berg, so go for hot dogs, sandwiches or finger foods. Biltong, dry wors, dried mango and fresh fruit are also good options, says Mellet, who suggests catering for two-thirds of your party. If you have 20 children, supply 15 cupcakes, with one packet of chips and sweets being suitable for 10 children. Homemade food goes down well, but be realistic about what you can actually do; I’m no baker, so I will be outsourcing the cake. Mellet also says you don’t need a big cake and cupcakes. Something will go to waste. Replace cupcakes with brownies, crunchies or decorated biscuits. Parents don’t need too much food, but if there are any leftovers, have a few takeaway containers for guests. If it’s a cold day, make sure there is plenty of tea and coffee, and no matter the weather, have a ready supply of juice and water.
Don’t forget that there may be special requirements for some of your guests. Children may have an allergy, to nuts perhaps, that could affect your catering. There may also be a child with special needs attending your party. Speak to the child’s parents about what you can do to accommodate her. (See the “dealing with difference” article on page 14 for practical tips.)
is everything ready? Make party packs and get nonperishable foods early on. Check with your suppliers that everything will be delivered on time. The day before, get as much ready as possible, from decor to baked items. Think about safety, advises Van der Berg: if you’re having a pool party, make sure there is constant supervision, and always keep the dogs away from the action. Put together a party plan with times. Entertainment and games can start half an hour into the party and cut the cake after an hour, suggests Collinge-Sim. When the big day dawns, get an early start. Anticipate early arrivals and give yourself and your child enough time to get ready. Give jobs to family and friends, or enlist the help of a party planner, to help make the day go smoother. “Take lots of photos and don’t sweat the small stuff,” says Van der Berg. The things you worry about are hardly ever noticed by the guests and, more importantly, the birthday child isn’t the slightest bit concerned. Now that’s something I’m going to have to remember for my son’s birthday this year.
find your party inspiration • childmag.co.za/resources/birthday-parties • childmag.co.za/content/party-planning-checklist • pinterest.com/childmagazine/lets-party
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party ideas
birthday party basics It’s party time! Plan your child’s big day using one of our inspiring themes: create and experiment pg 22 animal crackers
pg 23
abracadabra!
pg 24
in the garden
pg 26
on the move
pg 26
fun for foodies
pg 27
good sports
pg 28
Make sure nothing falls through the cracks by using our handy checklist and party service suggestions to plan your child’s party. From decorations and party food to games and entertainers, our all-new party guide gives you tons of inspiration and solutions.
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June 2015
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catering
child’s name: party date: the month before establish a party budget choose the venue set the date and time if applicable, ask for your child’s updated class list draw up the guest list send out invitations decide on games or activities book entertainment if necessary
two weeks before order or plan the cake decide on decorations plan the menu book caterers plan party packs
PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com
one week before make a list of games and activities do the shopping ensure sufficient crockery, cutlery, tables and chairs follow up on outstanding RSVPs prepare food that can be made in advance confirm drop-off or pick-up times with your caterer, entertainer or helpers wrap prizes for games and activities clean house and garden
the day before charge your camera/video camera check your first-aid kit bake or collect the birthday cake – remember candles, matches and knife buy any last-minute perishables assemble the party packs get cooking check safety around house – pool is covered, etc.
party time set up the party table, games and decorations put up a welcome sign or direction arrows make sure pets are safely locked away enjoy don’t forget the thank-you notes
who to call party accessories planners equipment hire entertainers catering
Download your party-planning checklist from childmag.co.za/downloads
magazine durban
Bella and Boo – 082 922 5186 / mobile@bellaandboo.co.za / bellaandboo.co.za Huberto’s – 031 766 2595 / admin@ hubertos.co.za / hubertos.co.za
entertainers Buddy Bear – Hillcrest and Ballito / 082 664 7107 / leanne@ buddybear.co.za / buddybear.co.za Cherry The Magical Clown – 031 201 2515, 083 725 0925 / adi@cherryco.co.za / cherryco.co.za Musical Rascals – KZN / 081 587 2599 / bhavna@musicalrascals.co.za / musicalrascals.co.za Playworks technology and events – 031 466 4488, 082 856 1018 / info@ playworks.co.za / playworks.co.za Puppet World – 082 808 0057 / heather@puppetworld.co.za / puppetworld.co.za Shongololo Shakers – 060 350 7323, 083 893 5155 / info@shongololoshakers. co.za / shongololoshakers.co.za
equipment hire Hip Hip Hooray Happy Birthday – 072 434 4349 / kerryann.taylor5@gmail.com / hiphiphoorayhappybirthday.co.za KZN Inflatables – 031 903 5159, 083 262 5131, 082 877 8662 / gail@ kzninflatables.co.za / kzninflatables.co.za
party accessories Just Kidding Around – 031 562 0200 / julie@justkiddingaround. co.za / justkiddingaround.co.za Just Plastics – Springfield and Umhlanga Ridge / 031 263 1906 (Springfield), 031 566 3351 (Umhlanga) / justplastics.co.za Macaroon stationery – 011 782 2245 / orders@macaroon.co.za / macaroon.co.za Money Box Party Packs – 082 422 7872 / tracyf@iafrica.com / jorsam.co.za Parties4Africa – 073 942 1730 / info@ parties4africa.co.za / parties4africa.co.za Partylicious – Kloof / 031 764 0058, 083 645 5426 / info@partyliciouskzn.co.za / Facebook: Partylicious Rainbow Parties – 012 362 2383, 072 271 5371 / carmenyup@iburst.co.za / rainbowparties.co.za The Toy Factory Shop – 031 701 2968 / thetoyfactoryshop.co.za
photographers Sarah-Jane Photography – 072 245 3453 / sj@sarahjanephotography. co.za / sarahjanephotography.co.za
planners Big Occasions For Little People – Durban North to Umhlanga / 076 060 5370 / admin@bigoccasions. co.za / bigoccasions.co.za Sugar Plum Parties – 072 666 7260 / calley@sugarplumparties.co.za / sugarplumparties.co.za
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party ideas
create &
experiment Have a science party with a “bang”, or a music show with applause – give children the chance to join in with the party creation. one potato...
Cut shapes out of potatoes, give children lots of space, paper and paint, and let them create a mural.
all-colour
party favou Give each ch r ild a palette of non-toxic, washable p aints to take home.
backyard bubbles
Mix two cups of water with half a cup of dishwashing liquid, and let the children start blowing. The more bubbles they make, the more fun they’ll have (play chase-the-bubble). Remind them not to swallow.
pop idol
Hire a karaoke machine and microphones, collect CDs with popular songs, and set the stage for a live show. You can also rent “disco” costumes, and let the partygoers dress to the nines for their performance.
entertainers Fun Science Secret Lab – 076 201 6958 / secretlabinafrica@gmail.com / Facebook: Fun Science Secret Lab
party accessories The Carnival Toys and Gifts – 031 573 1591 / info@thecarnival.co.za / Facebook: Carnival Toy Shop
let’s get crafty
As a party activity children can do mosaics, beadwork, ceramic painting, sewing, make loom bands or do scrapbooking. Book a creative entertainer to run the show for you if your “creative juices” are low.
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June 2015
Artbeat Studios – Musgrave / 082 881 9223, 031 209 3710 / artbeat@mweb.co.za / Facebook: Artbeat Studios Barnyard Theatre – Gateway / 031 566 3045 / gateway@barnyardtheatre.co.za / barnyardtheatre.co.za Build–A–Bear Workshop – Gateway / 0861 1 23277 (BEARS), 031 566 3949 / bearemy@ buildabear.co.za / buildabear.co.za Just Imagine Mosaics – 083 782 7810 / sheila@kznmosaics.co.za / kznmosaics.co.za
magazine durban
PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com
venues
animal
on the farm
crackers
PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com
Baloo says in The Jungle Book: “In case you haven’t noticed, kid, I’m
pigs in a blanket
no wild animal. Except at parties.”
Mini hot dogs make for ideal fun bites for children. Roll cut-up Viennas in puff pastry and bake.
shaun the sheep Decorate chocolate muffins with small marshmallows to create fluffy sheep characters. Use black fruit gums for the face and candy eye decorations to give it personality.
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Bring a mobile zoo to your home, if you have enough space, or take the children to a petting farm. Pony rides, cow milking sessions and animal feedings are very popular. You can also find an entertainer who can make a farmyard of balloon animals.
entertainers The Incredible Dog Show – 084 500 0415 / lloyd@ dogzcool.com / dogzcool.com
venues Flag Animal Farm – Ballito / 032 947 2018 / fosgreen@ mweb.co.za / flaganimalfarm.co.za Lucky Linton Gold Mine & Children’s Farmyard – Ballito / 032 947 1459, 083 287 8383 / luckylinton.com The Animal Farmyard – Botha’s Hill / 031 765 2240, 082 979 6030 / jenny@animalfarmyard.co.za / animalfarmyard.co.za uShaka Marine World – 031 328 8001, 031 328 8010, 031 328 8087 / bookings@ ushakamarineworld.co.za / ushakamarineworld.co.za Winsome View Animal Farm and Country Bistro – Summerveld / 031 769 1500, 076 870 0356 / info@winsomeview.co.za / winsomeview.co.za
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party ideas
abracadabra! Delight your party guests with these delicious magic-themed treats from For Good Times by JULIE GALLAGHER. alf cake sawing indh ients
ingre ight doll (you m • 1 Barbie ix m ke a c te the arms) • 1 chocola r to remove e blindfold find it easie bbon for th ri f o e c ie p w• • plastic sa
Cookie cutters are an easy and effective way of transforming an ordinary cheese and ham or any other flavour sandwich into something special. Prepare your fillings, but make the sandwiches no more than a couple of hours before the party to ensure the bread stays fresh and doesn’t dry out or become soggy.
PHOTOGRAPHS: VANESSA LEWIS
method nd acket mix a recipe or p te ri u cool vo to fa r w u 1 Use yo af tin. Allo lo a in ke a day. ocolate c stand for a bake the ch ible, allow to ss o p the f if o d e n a the sid completely ut a hole in c , ife ke a kn a m rp 2 With a sha with a circular piece of pipe, ie. en Barb cake, and th d insert the the cake an h g u eyes as a ro ’s th ie le ho over Barb n o b b ri f o 3 Tie the piecend serve with the plastic saw. blindfold a
club suit sandwich
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June 2015
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magician’s top hat pops ingredients • 1 packet marshmallows • 1 packet Oreos or similar shape biscuits • dark chocolate • white fondant icing • silver edible glitter • straws or plastic sticks method 1 Melt the chocolate and push a straw into the top of the marshmallow. 2 Using the straw as a “handle”, dip the marshmallow in chocolate and then place it in the centre of the Oreo. 3 When the chocolate has set, pipe a line around the top hat to form a band with the white icing. 4 Sprinkle the icing with edible glitter.
about the book For Good Times (Quivertree Publications) by Julie Gallagher, brought to us by the party store In Good Company, presents twelve party plans that will have you entertaining throughout the year. This beautifully illustrated book is full of inspired ideas, do-able DIYs, push print stationery and keeping-it-real recipes (compiled by Taryne Jakobi). And as an added bonus, when you buy the book you get access to all the themes online, where you can download the templates. For Good Times is available from all good bookstores for R298.
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June 2015
25
party ideas
in the
garden What better way to celebrate your
cupcake garden Get creative with fondant and turn chocolate cupcakes into tiny pot plants.
child’s spring or summer birthday than with a garden party?
entertainers Garden Games – 021 701 1275 / joburg@giantgardengames. co.za / giantgardengames.co.za
venues Africa Whispers Country Café – Crestholme / 031 776 3075, 083 270 0003 / info@africawhispers.co.za / africawhispers.co.za Burnedale – Farm, Cafe and Creative Centre – Umhlali / 032 947 0133 / burnedalecafe1@gmail.com / burnedale.co.za
Happi Days Toy and Party Venue – Salt Rock / 082 565 8746 / info@ happidays.co.za / happidays.co.za Heather Belles Café and Party Venue – Durban North / 031 563 4546, 083 789 0216 / hbellecafe@gmail.com / heatherbellescafe.co.za Little Lambs Preschool Party Venue Hire – Hillcrest / 031 765 1833 / admin@littlelambspreschool. co.za / littlelambspreschool.co.za Lucky Bean – Hillcrest / 082 216 3892 / info@luckybean.co / luckybean.co
cowboys & indians Let the children build their own teepees to play in (search online for a tutorial), and make felt headbands and beaded necklaces.
you are invited!
sweet nectar
Paint glass jars with elements from your theme (totem pole, flowers) and place colourful cardboard invites in them. It’s also a good idea for party favours.
Pour chilled, fresh fruit juice in jugs and serve with jars as glasses and straws.
on the move Boys, especially, gravitate toward all things that “roll”. Planes, trains, trucks and automobiles give endless party inspiration. mallow choo-choo
snacks on the move
All you need is finger biscuits, soft round sweets, a few toothpicks to stick it together, and... vroooom!
ahoy, sailors!
fuel for fun Call water anything but water, decorate the bottle, and children will be happy.
Invest in a nautical-shaped cookie cutter to create a colourful fleet.
venues Apache River Spur – Durban North / 031 564 3368 / apacheriver@spursteakranch.co.za Funky Monkey – Umhlanga / 031 566 2000 / info@funkymonkey.co.za / funkymonkey.co.za Mr Funtubbles Fabulous Family Funfair – Gateway / 031 584
thanks for coming! Say “thank you” with small toy trucks, matchbox cars, or have a funky design of a train printed onto a T-shirt for something useful.
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June 2015
6645 / party@mrfuntubbles.co.za / mrfuntubbles.co.za Spur Steak Ranches – national / 0860 007 787 / spur.co.za
magazine durban
PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM / © penguin random house / ryno
Use glacé icing to stick wafer biscuits, marshmallows and sweets together for a candy train. Make a train track from strips of liquorice or cardboard. The idea for these colourful trains was taken from Easy Party Treats For Children. For a review, turn to page 29.
fun for
party favours
foodies
foodie food
Pat-a-cake, pat-a-cake baker’s
Children can make all sorts of goodies. Fruit kebabs, sandwiches and mac ’n cheese are culinary favourites and easy to make.
man, bake me a cake as fast as you can... let the children loose
kitchen fun
in the kitchen for a day.
PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM / berna coetzee
Tie delectable eats in a clean dishcloth with a ribbon and a wooden spoon as a thankyou gift.
Children can help bake a themed cake or decorate cupcakes and cookies. Give them lots of space to bake and create. This inspiring idea (right) was taken from Party Magic 4 For Boys and Girls. For more info on the book, turn to page 29.
venues join us For invitations, make rolling pins out of white cardboard and plastic, and decorate them in your theme.
magazine durban
Cooking Kids Parties – Kloof / 031 764 6577, 083 794 6577 / meryl@merylschoolofcooking.co.za / merylschoolofcooking.co.za John Dory’s Westville – 082 064 0852 / westville@johndorys.com
June 2015
27
party ideas
good
sports Active children are happy children, so get them to play a game or two on their birthday. And remember, winning isn’t everything.
musical hula-hoops Working on the same principle as musical chairs, create an outside area with the cones and let the games begin.
get out there Book your party at a venue with rock climbing, ziplining, obstacle courses and other sporting games for children.
winning food soccer pops Use edible markers, piped chocolate or royal icing to turn white icingcoated cake pops into balls.
Serve traditional sports arena fare such as hamburgers, popcorn, hot dogs and sandwiches.
gold for everyone
entertainers Busyballers Parties – 083 236 0059 / lisa@busyballers.co.za / busyballers.co.za Kiddies’ Karate Parties – Durban North to Umhlanga / 082 777 1755 / derekkrummeck@gmail.com Soccersize – 011 882 3428, 083 234 5890 / info@starzkysparties.co.za / soccerstarz.co.za
venues Boot Camp SA Durban – Giba Valley / 082 782 6432 / info@bootcamp.co.za / boot-camp.co.za Giba Gorge – Giba Gorge / 031 769 1527 / info@gibagorge.co.za / gibagorge.co.za
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June 2015
Hillcrest Paintball – 074 172 1309 / jason@hillcrestpaintball.co.za / hillcrestpaintball.co.za S.W.A.T Lasertag – Durban North / 076 444 5570 / roanadendorff@gmail.com / swatlasertag.co.za Splash Water World – Amanzimtoti / 031 904 2273, 082 781 5535 / ragingrapids@yebo.co.za / splashwaterworld.co.za Sport on Court Africa – Durban North, Gateway, Westville / 031 560 0107, 082 826 9714 / janine@sportoncourt.net / sportoncourt.net Wavehouse – Gateway / 031 514 0500 / bronwyn@wavehouse.co.za / gatewayworld.co.za
magazine durban
PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
Chocolate medals make for a special “thanks for coming” gift or opt for plastic sport sets.
books
a good
read early graders
preschoolers
preteens and teens
Look Who’s Hiding!: Animal Sounds By Sharon Rentta
toddlers
(Published by Scholastic, R115) It’s very noisy on the farm. The cows are singing, the pigs are playing, the lambs are jumping, the donkey is dancing and the chicks are having a party. With lots of humour along the way, toddlers can slide out the pages of this chunky board book to reveal “moos”, “oinks’, “baas”, “neighs” and “cheeps”.
The Great Balloon Hullaballoo By Peter Bently and Mei Matsuoka
Let’s Read!: Marcello Mouse and the Masked Ball and Monsters, an Owner’s Guide By Julie Monks, Jonathan Emmett and Mark Oliver
(Published by Andersen Press, R43) When Simon the squirrel’s mom sends him off to the shop, Simon decides to fly to the moon in Old Uncle Somerset’s hot-air balloon in search of cheese. Shopping in outer space is very exciting, but proves to be a bit of a distraction. This is another irresistible romp from the creators of The Great Dog Bottom Swap, which has been shortlisted for the Roald Dahl Funny Prize.
(Published by Macmillan Children’s Books, R82 each) The Let’s Read! series has original stories of favourite picture books that have been redesigned to support children who are growing in reading confidence. In Marcello Mouse, our hero goes to a masked ball. But he hasn’t been invited and discovers this ball is not a place for a mouse. The second book contains all you need to know about assembling your own monster.
The Shadow’s Curse By Amy McCulloch (Published by Random House, R164) Raim is no closer to figuring out the meaning of the broken vow that sentenced him to exile for life. But with his former best friend now a tyrannical Khan who is holding the girl Raim loves captive, he finds it hard to care. Every day he and Draikh learn more about their powers, but it quickly becomes clear that he will never be able to stop Khareh and free Wadi unless he can free himself from the ultimate taboo of his people. Raim begins the long journey down to the south, to find the maker of his oath.
party
Easy Party Treats for Children By Janette Mocke (Published by Struik Lifestyle, R210) This book is aimed at anyone who wants to give their child a perfect party, without blowing the budget or having to spend hours in the kitchen. Using relatively few, readily available biscuits, sweets and decorations, it is possible to create a variety of treats for parties. Party themes include “Vehicles”, “Planes and Trains”, “Aliens” and “Creepy Crawlies”, and “Princesses and Magic Forests”. magazine durban
Party Magic 3 and 4 For Boys and Girls By Arina du Plessis and Bernice van der Merwe (Published by Human and Rousseau, R188) The Party Magic books make it so easy to organise a fabulous party for children that you may even enjoy it yourself. The book’s point of departure is simple – it’s about wholesome fun and games that won’t break the bank. Offering step-by-step instructions for cakes, invitations, gift bags, sweet and savoury snacks and delicious drinks, there is something to please every taste, age group, season and budget.
Perfect Parties By Janet Kohler (Published by Struik Lifestyle, R325) Are your children nagging you to arrange a really fun birthday party for them, but the very thought has you quaking? Janet Kohler is a perfectionist with an attention to detail that is quite breathtaking. With the assistance of stylist extraordinaire Penelope Mitchell, in Perfect Parties she presents a dazzling array of inspirational party ideas, complemented by delicious recipes. She also guides the reader through every aspect of a party – from choosing a theme; through décor and preparation countdowns; right down to the step-by-step recipes.
Cook and Enjoy for Kids By S.J.A. de Villiers and Eunice van der Berg (Published by Human and Rousseau, R179) Having a foodie-themed party? This colourful guide will show you how easy, and how much fun, it is to cook. More than 55 mouthwatering recipes have been specially selected and tested. Each method comes with step-by-step instructions and is illustrated with full colour photographs. The book also teaches children how to use a recipe, measuring the correct way, using kitchen tools and utensils, and understanding cooking terms. Party treats children can concoct include date surprises and a party cake. June 2015
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calendar
You can also access the calendar online at
what’s on in june
childmag.co.za
Your guide for what to do, where to go and who to see. Compiled by TAMLYN VINCENT
26 fri
special events
31
FUN for children
32
only for parents
33
bump, baby & tot in tow
33
how to help
33
SPECIAL EVENTS
FUN FOR CHILDREN
ONLY FOR PARENTS
bump, baby & tot in tow
how to help
Sugar Bay holiday camp Children are kept busy with over 100 fun themed and free-choice activities.
50 Carat Gold Rock along to great chart toppers, hits and song moments from the last 60 years.
Baby Bright Stars Bond with your baby or toddler, as they move and explore in a vibrant space.
iThemba Lethu Durban You can donate time, skills or financial help, to assist children with HIV/Aids.
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June 2015
magazine durban
PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM / Val Adamson
East Coast Radio House & Garden Show Shop and browse a variety of exhibitions, while your children are kept entertained.
SPECIAL EVENTS 1 monday Collect-a-Can Can Craze competition Schools can start collecting cans and designing their Can-tastic structures, which can take any form. The only requirement for entries is the structure must be built out of 300 or more cans. Once the piece is complete, learners must submit photographs, along with completed entry forms. Entry forms can be collected at various Collect-a-Can branches or downloaded online. For more info: visit collectacan.co.za
2 tuesday 50 Carat Gold This tribute show celebrates the glittering song moments that have made audiences rock out, cry and sing along over the last 60 years. Ends 19 July. Time: 8pm Tuesday–Saturday, 2pm Sunday. Venue: The Barnyard Theatre, Gateway. Cost: R145 Wednesday–Saturday, R110 Tuesday, R100 Sunday. Contact: 031 566 3045, gateway@barnyardtheatres.co.za or visit barnyardtheatres.co.za
4 thursday Cell C Take a Girl Child to Work Day This campaign is targeted at Grade 10–12 South African girl learners and gives them the opportunity to visit a place of work to experience career opportunities available to them. Companies who wish to host a group of girls should register online. For more info: visit cellc.co.za/girlchild
5 friday A Decade of Miracles The Robin Hood Foundation celebrates 10 years of service to the community, and the launch of their book, with a medieval feast. Time: 5:30pm. Venue: Camelot Castle, Hillcrest. Cost: R300. Contact: 076 612 9060, robinhoodfund@telkomsa.net or visit robinhoodfoundation.co.za
6 saturday Adoption workshop KZN private adoption workers hold a workshop for prospective adoptive parents. Time: 8:30am–12:30pm. Venue: Westville Methodist Church, 38 Jan Hofmeyr Rd. Cost: R50. Contact: 072 318 2566 or 083 460 5872 DSD Sunset Proms and Laternenfest Join a fun-filled family event with music for the adults, and games and a lantern festival for children. Time: 2:30pm–7pm. Venue: Deutsche Schule Durban, 34 Stafford Rd, Cowies Hill. Cost: R75, children under 13 years old free. Contact: 031 267 1307, info@dsdurban.co.za or visit dsdurban.co.za Durban North College Venison Festival There are over 11 tents each with their own potjie and entertainment. No under 18s allowed. Time: 6:30pm. Venue: 25 Prospect Hall Rd, Durban North. Cost: R150. Contact: 031 564 1347, admin@durbannorthcollege.co.za or visit durbannorthcollege.co.za St Mary’s entrance assessments Complete the application form (available on their website) and submit it beforehand. Grade R 30 May, Grades 1–7 6 June. Time: 8am. Venue: St Mary’s DSG, Kloof. Cost: R500. Contact: 031 764 9824, mhannan@ stmarysdsg.co.za or visit stmarysdsg.co.za Winter Faire This all-day family event has stalls with goodies, a funfair for children, plenty of food, and an event arena. Time: 9am. Venue: Curro HCA fields, 2 Blessing Ninela Rd, Hillcrest. Cost: free entry. Contact: 082 572 7027
13 saturday
4 June – Cell C Take a Girl Child to Work Day
magazine durban
Keep Dancing Featuring Warren Duffield, a professional Latin-American, ballroom and line dancer, and Senta Duffield, a professional belly dancer. Time: 8pm. Venue: iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino, Umdloti. Cost: R80. Book through Computicket: visit computicket.com
Durban North College Night Market
5 fri
Baby Bootcamp Clicks BabyClub and Paed-IQ present a baby workshop, with speakers, giveaways and more. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Protea Hotel Edward, 149 OR Tambo Parade, North Beach. Cost: R180. For more info: visit paediq.com
14 sunday The Gatsby National Polo Event Time: 10am. Venue: Shongweni Polo Club, Hillcrest. Cost: R50–R750. Book through Webtickets: visit webtickets.co.za
15 monday Choral Collisions @ Kearsney This concert series sees visiting choirs join Kearsney’s choir to offer a refreshing choral tapestry. Also 7 and 14 August. Time: 7pm. Venue: Henderson Hall, Kearsney College, Old Main Rd, Botha’s Hill. Cost: R45–R110. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com
18 thursday The 10th Annual DPHS Rugby Festival Schools from Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Cape Town, Joburg and East London play 39 rugby games in three days. A fixture list is on their website. Ends 20 June. Time: approximately 11am–4:30pm Thursday and Friday, 8am–1pm Saturday. Venue: 99 Gordon Rd, Morningside. Cost: free entry. Contact: 031 312 2154 or visit dphs.co.za
22 monday KZN Schools Music Festival Enjoy an entertaining evening of music, provided by KZN’s youth. The evening features massed choirs, a massed orchestra and soloists from schools around the province, with
This family evening offers everything from hamburgers and pancakes to clothes, jewellery and children’s rides. Time: 5pm. Venue: 25 Prospect Hall Rd, Durban North. Cost: free entry. Contact: 031 564 1347, admin@ durbannorthcollege.co.za or visit durbannorthcollege.co.za
music from films, musicals, operas and light classical pieces. Time: 7pm. Venue: City Hall, Anton Lembede St, Durban CBD. Cost: R100. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com
25 thursday Crow’s 35th Annual Gala Dinner Not only are guests treated to an evening of fine dining and entertainment, there is also an auction. Dress code is black tie. Time: 6:30pm. Venue: The Great Ilanga Room, Southern Sun Elangeni Hotel. Cost: R500 per person, R4 500 per table of 10. Contact: 031 462 1127 or fundraiser@ crowkzn.co.za
26 friday Durban Ice Arena opening The Durban Ice Rink has been restored to its former glory. This new Olympic-size ice arena promises social skate sessions, skating and ice hockey lessons, birthday parties, shows and more. Time: skate sessions vary. Venue: 81 Somtseu Rd, North Beach. Cost: two-hour skating session R60, spectators R30. Contact: 031 332 4597, info@durbanicerink.co.za or visit durbanicerink.co.za East Coast Radio House & Garden Show Take your children ages 4–12 years old to the Kidz Zone, where they are entertained while you browse over 350 exhibitions. There are free craft and baking demonstrations in the main hall. Ends 5 July. Time: 10am–8pm Sunday–Thursday, 10am–10pm Friday and Saturday. Venue: Durban Exhibition Centre, 11 Walnut Rd, Durban. Cost: adults R85, adults’ multiple entry ticket R100, children under 16 years old free. For more info: visit housegardenshow.co.za
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calendar The Great Kloof Kids Magic Show Adrian the Magician enthrals and captivates children. All funds generated go to Keep Kloof Beautiful. Tickets include a Magic Treat Bag for each child ticketholder and are available from the info counter of Village Mall Superspar in Kloof. Time: 6pm. Venue: Kloof Civic Hall, Village Rd, Kloof. Cost: R50. For more info: visit keepkloofbeautiful.org.za or themagician.co.za
FUN FOR CHILDREN art, culture and science HartBeat Music and Art Studio Fine art, private piano and djembe drumming lessons. Time: weekly lessons vary. Venue: Leaping Lizards, 37 Valerie Dr, Gillitts. Cost: varies. Contact: 083 470 5743 New Daisy Arts Studio art classes Fine art classes, for all ages. Time: varies. Venues: Hatton Estate, Glenwood or Umbilo. Cost: R90–R130. Contact: 073 540 9210, daniella.hartman@gmail.com or visit Facebook: NewDaisyArtsStudio
classes, talks and workshops Get Ready for School programme Time: 1pm–2:20pm Monday–Friday. Venue: Kip McGrath Pinetown, 2nd floor, Park Row Building, 4 School Rd, Pinetown. Cost: varies. Contact: 031 702 6833 Shine @ St Martin’s Church Children in Grades R–7 learn more about Jesus in a fun, safe environment. Time: 5pm–6:30pm every Friday. Venue: 12 Chelsea Dr, Durban North. Cost: free. Contact: 031 563 1222 or sarah@stmartinschurch.co.za
family outings Books2You book fair Time: 10am–3pm 1 June, 7:30am–3pm 2 June. Venue: Berea Primary. Also at La Lucia Junior Primary 10 and 11 June, St James 17 June, Thomas More College 22 and 23 June, and Brighton Beach 24 and 25 June. Cost: free entry. Contact: 031 705 7744 or orders@ books2you.co.za
finding nature and outdoor play Crow open days Tours of Crow include a visit to some of the enclosures for animals in rehabilitation, as well as the
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June 2015
Shongweni Farmers Market Time: 6:30am–10:30am every Saturday. Venue: cnr Kassier Rd and Alverstone Rd, Assagay. Cost: free entry. Contact: 083 777 1674, info@shongwenimarket.co.za or visit shongwenimarket.co.za
environmental education centre. 28 June. Time: 11am. Venue: 15A Coedmore Rd, Yellowwood Park. Cost: adults R25, children R10. Contact: 031 462 1127 or info@crowkzn.co.za The Animal Farmyard Feed the animals and see milking demonstrations. Time: 9am–4:30pm daily, milking 10:30am and 3:30pm. Venue: 3 Lello Rd, Botha’s Hill. Cost: entry R15, rides R5. Contact: 031 765 2240 or visit animalfarmyard.co.za
on stage and screen
26 June – The Great Kloof Kids Magic Show
holiday programmes Cooking Kids mini chef course A fun three-day cooking competition and lesson where the children learn to cook a starter, main and dessert, with competitions, judges and prizes. 30 June–2 July. Time: 9am–10:30am. Venue: Meryl’s School of Cooking, 1 Wingfield Rd, Kloof. Cost: R480 for all lessons. Contact: 031 764 6577 Sugar Bay holiday camp – Pitch Perfect Week This week-long adventure camp for children lets them meet new friends and experience over 100 free-choice activities. This week the campers can sing their hearts out, attend DJ and dance classes and go to the Barnyard Theatre to see a show. For children 7–17 years old. Time: drop off between 3pm–4pm 28 June; collect between 8am–9am 5 July. Venue: Sugar Bay Holiday Resort, 21 Nkwazi Dr, Zinkwazi Beach. Cost: R5 699, sibling and past-camper discounts available. Contact: 032 485 3778, holidays@sugarbay.co.za or visit sugarbay.co.za
markets Essenwood Market There are free pony rides and entertainment for children. Time: 9am–2pm every Saturday. Venue: Steven Dlamini Rd, Essenwood. Cost:
14 sun
free entry. Contact: 031 208 1264, info@essenwoodmarket.com or visit essenwoodmarket.com I heart Market This market showcases innovative, handmade, homemade and locally designed crafts, art, fashion, jewellery, homeware, children’s goods, artisanal foods and recycled, upcycled and second-hand gems. 6 June. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: Moses Mabhida Stadium, Isaiah Ntshangase Rd. Cost: free entry. Contact: info@iheartmkt.com or visit iheartmarket.blogspot.com Open Markets The charity shops, tea garden and nursery are open, plus there is food and entertainment. Time: 8am–12pm every Monday, Thursday and Saturday, 9am–1pm 28 June. Venue: Kloof and Highway SPCA, 29 Village Rd. Cost: free entry. Contact: 031 764 1212/3 Paws and Pet Enthusiasts market Find a selection of stalls for you and your furry friends. 7 June. Time: 8am. Venue: Waterfall Library, Link Rd. Cost: free entry. For more info: visit Facebook: Mazarat Animal Rescue Markets The Play Market A craft and food market. 14 June. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: Giba Gorge MTB Park, Westmead. Cost: R10 park entry. Contact: 071 307 0823 or gotoplaymarket@gmail.com
Shrek the Musical Enjoy ogre-sized family fun with the Broadway musical adaptation of the hit movie Shrek. No children under 6 years old. 23 May–28 June. Time: 1:30pm Saturday and Sunday, 7pm Tuesday–Saturday. Venue: Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, UKZN, Glenwood. Cost: R180–R300. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com The Great Kloof Kids Magic Show Tickets are available from the info counter of Village Mall Superspar, Kloof. 26 June. Time: 6pm. Venue: Kloof Civic Hall, Village Rd. Cost: R50. For more info: visit keepkloofbeautiful. org.za or themagician.co.za
playtime and story time Arise @ St Martin’s Church This is a fun-filled children’s programme during the Sunday morning family service. For children from Preschool–Grade 7. A cry room for babies and crèche for toddlers are available. Time: 9am every Sunday. Venue: 12 Chelsea Dr, Durban North. Cost: free. Contact: 031 563 1222 or sarah@ stmartinschurch.co.za
World Blood Donor Day Donate a unit of blood at your nearest donor centre and help save up to three lives of patients in dire need of blood. Donors need to be between 16–65 years old, in good health and weigh 50kg or more. For more info contact the South African National Blood Service: 0800 119 031 or visit sanbs.org.za 23 May–28 June – Shrek the Musical
magazine durban
Lucky Bean A safe children’s outdoor playground and indoor playbarn, with a coffee shop. Time: 9am–4pm Tuesday– Sunday. Venue: 10 Cadmoor Rd, Assagay. Cost: R20 entrance fee. Contact: 082 216 3892, info@luckybean.co or visit luckybean.co
sport and physical activities Michelle Clark Dance Academy Ballet, modern and tap dancing lessons for children from 3 years old. Time: varies. Venue: Kloof Civic Hall, Old Main Rd. Cost: varies. Contact: 072 483 6222 or mcclark. dance@gmail.com
Newmarket Stables riding lessons For people of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced. Time: varies Monday–Saturday. Venue: cnr NMR Ave and Goble Rd, Durban. Cost: varies. Contact: 031 303 1529 or newmarket. stables@gmail.com
only for parents classes, talks and workshops Adult Djembe Drumming Lessons are provided by a qualified teacher. Time: 4:30pm–5pm every Wednesday. Venue: Leaping Lizards, 37 Valerie Dr, Gillitts. Cost: R20. Contact: 083 470 5743 Exploring Emotions Learn about understanding, supporting and correctly managing challenging children. Topics include defence mechanisms,
Mothers 2 Baby For new and older moms finding motherhood challenging. Mom and baby welcome. Time: 10am–11:30am third Thursday every month. Venue: Hillcrest Private Hospital, Kassier Rd. Cost: free. Contact the clinical psychologist: 061 453 3718
how to help
on stage and screen 50 Carat Gold 2 June–19 July. Time: 8pm Tuesday–Saturday, 2pm Sunday. Venue: The Barnyard Theatre, Gateway. Cost: R145 Wednesday–Saturday, R110 Tuesday, R100 Sunday. Contact: 031 566 3045, gateway@barnyardtheatres.co.za or visit barnyardtheatres.co.za Keep Dancing 13 June. Time: 8pm. Venue: iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino, Umdloti. Cost: R80. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com
support groups
Michelle Clark Dance Academy
support groups
psychosomatic symptoms, oppositional defiant disorder, OCD, anxiety vs phobia and more. Suitable for paediatric professionals and parents. 7 June. Time: 8am–5pm. Venue: The Hilton Hotel, 12–14 Walnut Rd, Durban. Cost: R1 350, R1 225 per person for group bookings of four or more. Contact: 083 700 3644, 084 571 7557 or bookings@professionalminds.co.za
Ballito Autism Centre of Excellence A support and resource centre for children, families, communities and professionals. Contact: 032 586 0200 or info@ imbalitohopecollege.co.za Famsa Offers family and relationship counselling. Contact: 031 202 8987 or visit 30 Bulwer Rd, Glenwood Hi Hopes Home intervention programme for children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Contact: 082 897 1632, dianne.goring@ hihopes.co.za or visit hihopes.co.za Overeaters Anonymous A support group for compulsive overeaters. Contact: 011 640 2901, sms 076 274 5474 or visit oa.org.za
bump, baby & Tot in tow
classes, talks and workshops Edubabe Childminder training, first aid workshops and cooking classes. Time: varies. Venue: Glenwood. Cost: varies. Contact: 071 968 1007 or durban@ edubabe.co.za Edu-Maid Childcare courses and childstimulation workshops run over two three-hour sessions. Time: varies. Venue: Sunningdale. Cost: R700. Contact: 084 821 6668 or eleanors@servatech.co.za
Infant massage
Infant massage Bond, interact and communicate with your baby. Time: varies. Venue: varies in Durban and surroundings. Cost: five-week course R600. Contact: 072 623 3266, hello@holisticbaby.co.za or visit holisticbaby.co.za Pregnancy Yoga Gentle yoga for momsto-be. Time: 9:30am–10:45am every Saturday. Venue: The Yoga Sanctuary, 49 Delaware Ave, Glenashley. Cost: R260 per month. Contact: 076 410 1410 or angela@ rautenbach.co.za
playtime and story time Baby Bright Stars Interactive classes for moms and babies. Time: varies. Venue: Westville. Cost: R900. Contact: 083 777 4578, kelly@babybrightstars.co.za or visit babybrightstars.co.za Little Me Moms and Toddlers playgroups Fun workshops for toddlers 1–3½ years old and moms. Time: varies. Venue: Sunningdale. Cost: R90. Contact: 084 821 6668 or eleanors@servatech.co.za Shongololo Shakers Music, puppet and movement classes for children 0–4 years old. Time: varies. Venues: Durban North and Winston Park. Cost: varies. Contact: 060 350 7323, 083 893 5155, info@shongololoshakers.co.za or visit shongololoshakers.co.za
Bicycles Change Lives In rural regions of Africa, many students travel great distances to get to school. Of the 11 million students who walk to school in South Africa, half a million students walk more than one hour each way. But distance is a barrier that can be eliminated with a bicycle. Your donation will help provide bicycles to students, giving them the tools to access education. For more info: visit bicycleschangelives.org iThemba Lethu Durban “I have a destiny” invests in babies and children threatened by the effects of HIV/Aids. If you would like to help the orphans or vulnerable children with your time, finances or skills please get in touch. Contact: 031 261 7723, karen@ithembalethu.org.za or visit ithembalethu.org.za
Bicycles Change Lives
don’t miss out! For a free listing, email your event to durban@childmag.co.za. Information must be received by 29 May for the July issue, and must include all relevant details. No guarantee can be given that it will be published. To post an event online, visit childmag.co.za
family marketplace
magazine durban
June 2015
33
finishing touch
love tokens ANÉL LEWIS has been waking up to find various odds and ends in bed with her after
Erin, Anél and Conor
y
ou know that charming habit some cats have of bringing “gifts” of dead animals or debris into the house? Well, Conor has a similar trick, except that his repertoire involves plastic combine harvesters and cement diggers. We have finally managed to get him to sleep in his own bed. All it takes is two bedtime stories, a few flights with “Dusty” along with some commentary from the air traffic controller, aka Dad, and Conor is lights out. Well, for a few hours anyway. Around midnight, Conor makes his way down two flights of stairs – in the pitch dark – and into our bed. It’s disruptive, but we’ve settled into some semblance of a
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June 2015
routine and I usually manage to fall asleep within a few seconds of his arrival. That was until he started to bring accessories along on his midnight jaunts. I woke up the other morning to find the mast of a plastic boat wedged under my neck and a racing car – with lights flashing – between my knees. Conor, of course, was blissfully unaware of the debris strewn across my side of the bed as he had positioned himself on the only section of the mattress not occupied by toys or the cat. At first, I thought he had grabbed the paraphernalia because it had been with him in his bed. But a few mornings ago, I happened to wake up before Conor
embarked on his nocturnal pilgrimage. And I was astounded to hear him get up and walk to his toy box, where he started to noisily rummage through the contents so that he could choose two items to bring to bed. There’s absolutely nothing random about the objects he carries into our bed each morning. I suppose this is why it makes me think of cats that bring gifts to their owners. According to internet “experts”, cats do this to act out their natural role as nurturer or teacher. The dead mouse could also be a thank-you gift. So the pet gurus recommend that you create an area where your cat can safely deposit any tokens of their appreciation. I’m not convinced that this will work for Conor, who has now started to take various odds and ends with him to school. We recently bought him a wire bakkie with an extended steering wheel. Well, of
course the whole contraption had to go with him to school. Picture a wire creation, about the size of a fruit crate, topped by a metre-long wire steering wheel, wedged between Erin and Conor on the back seat. So much for the pet gurus’ recommendation. Conor has proven that no space is sacred when it comes to his insatiable need to bring his prized possessions with him wherever he goes. While the bruises inflicted by the various objects that find their way under my duvet every night may take a while to fade, I’m grateful that Conor’s gifts of thanks are – for now – limited to plastic trucks and trains. I don’t know what I’m going to do if he takes a leaf out of the cat’s book and starts adding more organic objects to his offering. Anél Lewis is now sleeping in long trousers, in case Conor abandons the plastic toys and starts bringing more squishy objects into the bed.
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PHOTOGRAPH: Susie Leblond Photography
her son crawls in during the night.