Child magazine | JHB August 2015 by Hunter House Publishing

J O B U R G ’ S

b e s t

gu i d e

f o r

p a r e n t s

the

education issue answering tough questions:

www.childmag.co.za

August 2015

free

what’s wrong with bunking school? motor neuron disease – is there a sport connection? why wouldn’t you vaccinate your child?

health

education

entertainment

Every morning I wake up excited to go to school. I love school! So read the last sentence of my daughter Robyn’s high school application essay. Sitting in front of the prospective headmaster as he read the sentence, I knew it was a winner – for her, for him, but especially for her dad and me. Her enthusiasm makes me think that we really did choose the right primary school for her. Our next challenge is to get it right for high school. We want our children to be healthy and happy. We want them to make friends, have a good sense of humour and find a sport or hobby that fires them up. We also want them to get a great education, and choosing the right school can deliver all of the above and more. Our children’s future is determined by our choices. Feel the pressure, much? Different schools have different things to offer the children they enrol, but what interests me is what Robyn has to offer her prospective school. I believe that through her contribution to the school, her teachers and classmates, the clubs she may join and any community involvement she may have, she will feel connected. Connection engenders a sense of belonging. And belonging leads to real happiness and, ultimately, success. With so much at stake, it’s no wonder we find choosing the right school for our children a minefield. So I hope that Child magazine inspires and guides us all to make the best decision. Enjoy our annual education issue.

Lisa Mc Namara Publisher

Hunter House P U B L I S H IN G

Publisher Lisa Mc Namara • lisa@childmag.co.za

Editorial Managing Editor Marina Zietsman • marina@childmag.co.za Features Editor Marc de Chazal • features@childmag.co.za Resource Editor Simone Jeffery • joburg@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

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monthly circulation Joburg’s Child magazineTM Cape Town’s Child magazineTM Durban’s Child magazineTM Pretoria’s Child magazineTM

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Joburg’s Child magazineTM is published monthly by Hunter House Publishing, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Office address: Unit 5, First Floor, Bentley Office Park, cnr Rivonia and Wessel Rd, Rivonia. Tel: 011 807 6449, fax: 011 234 4971, email: info@childmag.co.za. Annual subscriptions (for 11 issues) cost R165, including VAT and postage inside SA. Printed by Paarl Web. Copyright subsists in all work published in Joburg’s Child magazineTM. We welcome submissions but retain the unrestricted right to change any received copy. We are under no obligation to return unsolicited copy. The magazine, or part thereof, may not be reproduced or adapted without the prior written permission of the publisher. We take care to ensure our articles are accurate and balanced but cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage that may arise from reading them.

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August 2015

contents

august 2015

10 3 a note from lisa

health

6 over to you readers respond

10 vaccinated or vulnerable Lucille Kemp points out why vaccinations are so important

features 7 tone it down Tamlyn Vincent finds out that less is more when decorating a learning environment

regulars 8 pregnancy news – when you can’t breast-feed Anél Lewis gets expert advice on what to do

14 bunking school truancy is a serious matter. Glynis Horning explains why it should be dealt with early

16 the myth of work-life balance Samantha Page says parents should not feel guilty when juggling work and family life

19 tastes like freedom try these mouthwatering LCHF recipes from Karen Thomson and Kerry Hammerton’s new book Sugar Free

22 learning curves Tamlyn Vincent looks at study methods that work, and those that don’t

24 amsterdam – a celebration of history, art and light Lisa Mc Namara discovers that you can explore this Dutch city in 48 hours

26 what’s in a word? children do swear, sometimes. Gary Koen gives expert advice on how to deal with it

9 best for baby – soothing your crying baby Catherine Goldfain looks at reasons why babies cry and what you can do to calm them

12 dealing with difference – motor neuron disease can MND and sports injuries be linked? Marina Zietsman finds the answer

28 resource – unusual school outings Simone Jeffery compiles a list of unique places for your next class trip

31 a good read for the whole family 34 what’s on in august 46 finishing touch getting the family out of the front door in the mornings is Anél Lewis’ nemesis

classified ads 44 let’s party 46 family marketplace

this month’s cover images are supplied by:

August 2015

Joburg

Cape Town

Durban

Pretoria

St Mary’s School Waverley grahamdelacy.com

St John’s College stjohnscollege.co.za

Kingsmead College kingsmead.co.za

St Mary’s School Waverley grahamdelacy.com

magazine joburg

August 2015

letters

over to you

letters or comments to marina@childmag.co.za or PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010.

thank you

your voice online

While it’s true that the tide of animal abuse and neglect can seem overwhelming, it’s also true that the SPCA – with your support – is making a huge difference. The success of our book sale demonstrates that nothing less than “a total effort” would be acceptable for animals and I want to assure you that with your continued support, this will never change. Thanks again for being a valued partner in our loving service to all animals. We want to appeal to people to continue donating books for this worthy cause. Natasha Johannes, Fundraising Officer, Cape of Good Hope SPCA

comment on “father’s day without dad” What a wonderful article: sensitive and thought-provoking, and very important and timeous – it is much appreciated. Sus

Thanks for the article that was featured on childhood apraxia of speech in the July issue (“when words get stuck”). I think it was very well written and informative. My little boy has apraxia and Deidre’s story was almost identical to ours. I read the magazine consistently and love your articles. Thanks for keeping it real. Alexa

comment on “understanding tourette’s syndrome” My daughter is now 13 years old. She was diagnosed at the age of 11. This last year has been very difficult for her, as the Tourette’s has become uncontrollable. We have tried many different medications, but unfortunately she had terrible side effects to most of them. Eventually we found medication that worked. It was amazing to

Let us know what’s on your mind. Send your

August 2015

comment on “leaving facebook” I am a counsellor in private practice and it echoes my clients’ feelings. The huge problem with comparing to others: it takes away from your own soul, your own purpose and feelings of fulfilment. A well written article. Anonymous

see how she got her life back. She started socialising with friends again. When the Tourette’s was at its worst she became very angry, depressed and withdrawn. She has gained a lot of weight due to the medication and her self-esteem is very low. I am very concerned as she says the symptoms are coming back. We are on the maximum dose for the medication. We will have to start all over again. Anonymous comment on twitter I love your article “flying solo” (July 2015). It’s not easy, but I must say I have a great support system. Nomvula Prusent 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.

recommended reading

skin-to-skin Once your baby is born, it’s important to put him on your chest immediately after delivery and to keep him close for as long as possible. Jolly says that if a baby is close to the mother, she will see when he is ready to feed.

latch effectively Jolly says you will know when your baby is latched properly as he will swallow milk audibly and visibly. You will also be comfortable. Breast-feeding should not hurt, she says.

of babies in SA are exclusively breast-fed for six months

• • • •

llli.org normalfed.com kellymom.com The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by La Leche League International

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best for baby

soothing

your crying baby Babies often cry – a lot. Figuring out the cause isn’t always easy, but there are things you can do to comfort your child, says CATHERINE GOLDFAIN.

oothing a bawling baby is heart-wrenching for any mom. Sometimes just identifying the cause can prove tricky. Joburg-based nurse, Sr Shay, says babies pick up on a mom’s anxiety, so in your quest to mollify your mournful munchkin, a calm approach is key.

PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

why do babies cry? All babies “fuss” at first due to immature neurological systems. Most newborns cry for about three hours a day, peaking at around six weeks, and then taper off to about an hour a day after three months.

which cry means what? For Sabrina, a mother from Durban, it was quite easy: “A tired cry was whinier than other cries, whereas a cry of pain was more of a sharp, desperate cry. And then a hungry cry was more demanding.” But, since each child is different, most mothers resort to a process of elimination.

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crying cures Hunger Weigh your baby regularly when breast-feeding – and check your milk supply. Also avoid using feeding as a cure-all. “Often moms will hear their baby crying and the first instinct is to feed them,” says Shay, “but this will make them cry even more if something else is bothering them.” ENT pain Ear, nose and throat issues are often the culprit. If they’re stop-start feeding, it’s often because they have a sore throat. Tummy troubles A colicky baby will draw their legs up to their stomach and cry. Probiotics and massage can help. A typical reflux baby, on the other hand, arches their back and the more you feed them, the worse their reflux becomes, says Shay. Joburg mom, Susan, has been down this road with her child. “Octavia was quite colicky and had bad reflux. We did do baby massage and that definitely helped. And I used gripe water. If you held her often, that’s usually what she wanted. We also used a lot of probiotics.” Another reason babies may cry a lot is food allergies, which are easily apparent and require medical

support. Lactose-intolerant babies, for instance, will have explosive, foamy stools and will scream incessantly. Overstimulation “Sleep begets sleep,” says Joburg paediatrician Dr Lucic. Keeping your baby up and about for too long can lead to meltdowns. Putting them in a dark, quiet room with some white noise can work wonders. Comfort Sometimes your baby just needs a nappy change, or to lose a layer of clothing – or even some oldfashioned rocking or cuddling. When it’s serious... “A hungry cry will sound like ‘neh, neh’, but if they have a high-pitched cry, bordering on a scream, especially with a fever, you need to see a doctor,” says Shay. This could signal something serious, like meningitis. Excessive crying should never be ignored. So, if you’ve done what you can in terms of feeding, burping, rocking, swaddling and massage but nothing helps, go to your paediatrician and get your baby’s ears, nose and throat checked. Provided there’s no fever and they’re feeding and gaining weight, you can leave it for 10 days to two weeks before consulting your doctor.

August 2015

health

vaccinated or vulnerable Clinical virologist Prof Diana Hardie and pharmacist Lee Baker clarify why it is important to ensure that your child receives their

vaccinations. By LUCILLE KEMP

s a result of very high rates of childhood measles vaccination, the US succeeded in eliminating measles, the most infectious disease we know, in the year 2000. However, since then, the Centre for Disease Control has reported a rising number of measles cases in the US and when an infected individual visited a Disney theme park in California in December 2014, 111 Americans contracted measles, the vast majority of whom had not received the measles vaccine. In July 2015, the US confirmed its first measles death in over a decade.

the forces at play Parents around the world have been afraid that vaccines can harm their children, a fear largely stemming from a study that linked autism to the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination, which was officially found to be falsified. Before Cape Town mom Shannon Matheson’s son, Jude, was born she had decided that she wanted to avoid vaccinating due to this particular perceived risk, “but after talking to many friends and looking at my environment I decided that it is necessary.” Prof Diana Hardie points out that in South Africa we are all the more vulnerable to infectious disease and therefore cannot allow this study to continue to inform our decisionmaking about vaccinating our children. “The ongoing spread of measles occurring in many African countries to the north presents a significant risk of an imported case triggering an epidemic in South Africa. In 2009 and 2010 there was a countrywide measles epidemic, which resulted in many deaths from measles in infected children.” Lee Baker adds that KwaZulu-Natal is currently dealing with an outbreak of diphtheria, “all in children who have not had their diphtheria boosters.” In world news, an unvaccinated boy, with the first case of diptheria in Spain for 28 years, died in June 2015.

vaccines are a victim of their own success The bottom line is simple: vaccines prevent people from getting diseases that are potentially life-threatening and to date have saved millions of lives and prevented much pain and suffering. “Because of vaccination, killer diseases such as smallpox, polio, diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus are rarely, if ever, seen these days. If vaccination coverage falls too low, they will very likely return,” states Hardie. One of the main motivations for vaccinating one’s child, Hardie continues, is fear of the disease it prevents and due to current rarity, public fear of diseases such as measles has diminished. “In the 1950s when the first polio vaccines were introduced, parents queued for hours outside clinics to have their children vaccinated because at that time, almost everyone had known someone who had at random been struck down and maimed by poliomyelitis.”

Very high vaccine coverage is required to prevent outbreaks. Some infections are more easily transmitted than others, so the more infectious a disease, the higher the level of herd immunity needed to prevent circulation in the community. For example, more than 90% of children need to be vaccinated to prevent the circulation of measles in the community. Hardie says that the Department of Health is struggling to maintain the target levels of infant measles vaccination required to prevent measles outbreaks. “Estimates of the immunisation coverage of children in South Africa published by WHO and UNICEF in 2013, showed that vaccine coverage was highest at 84% for BCG (the TB vaccine given at birth) and lowest for measles at 66% for one dose and 53% for the recommended two doses.”

August 2015

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PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

the power and limitation of herd immunity

Because of vaccination, killer diseases such as smallpox, polio, diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus are rarely, if ever, seen these days. If vaccination coverage falls too low, they will very likely return. Hardie, however, urges parents to not rely on herd immunity, making it each individual household’s responsibility to ensure that their child is vaccinated. Due to a mounting number of parents choosing not to vaccinate their children, Baker says health authorities in the US are trying to make it more difficult for parents to opt out. “There are some US schools that are asking unvaccinated children to stay away from school in case they contract measles and infect children who can’t have the vaccine, such as children with leukaemia.”

why wouldn’t you vaccinate? Vaccines trigger a natural protective response in the body to disease-causing organisms. Granted, they can cause some physical side effects, but these don’t compare to the effects of not vaccinating your child. “Vaccination’s side effects are mostly mild and predictable and can be easily managed, and include fever, pain and swelling at the injection site,” says Hardie. “Even though Jude got the Rota virus despite being vaccinated [possible, according to doctors, but the virus is far milder if the child is vaccinated] and he had a bad reaction to Pentaxim, [his arm swelled and he had a high fever for two days], I’m glad I decided to vaccinate him – I have greater peace of mind and it’s also a prerequisite for admission into most preschools,” says Shannon. Since the measles epidemic in South Africa in 2009/10, Hardie reports that a growing number of children who had measles during the epidemic have been diagnosed with the devastating neurological disease sub-acute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), which is a fatal measles virus infection that enters the brain during acute measles infection and multiplies unchecked. The disease presents six to eight years after the measles virus infection and lasts about one to two years. “Affected children develop progressive behavioural problems, intellectual deterioration, uncontrollable seizures and eventually lapse into a coma and die,” says Hardie. Most parents today had their vaccines as children, says Baker, so why do they want to deprive their children of the protection they have had?

frequently asked questions Paediatrician and allergologist, Dr Claudia Gray, answers some of your questions around vaccinations. “My baby didn’t get the BCG. Should I be worried?” The BCG protects against severe TB infection, which is extremely common in South Africa and a potentially serious infectious disease. Therefore the BCG vaccine is strongly advised here as soon after birth as possible, and if not then, before the child turns one year old. If a child did not receive the BCG in the first year of life, please discuss with your healthcare practitioner whether the vaccine may still be suitable to give at a later stage. “My child has missed her six-year-old vaccination and she is now seven. Can I still take her?” Yes, you can. Vaccinations are generally safe across the age groups and postponing vaccines is generally not an issue. However, certain vaccines only carry a license for certain age groups, mainly because they were only studied in that age group or because the immune system responds in different ways at different ages, leading to different recommended vaccines at the various ages. Once again, ask your clinic sister or doctor if the vaccine is still fine to give at your child’s age. If not, there will certainly be a similar alternative providing the relevant vaccine cover. “I’ve lost my son’s immunisation card and he’s due for his six-year booster. I have to register him for Grade 1 next year and I’m worried that they won’t take him as a result. Can the school refuse my child entry? How do I go about getting a new immunisation card?” Schools are particular about having a record of vaccinations to ensure the safety of the “herd” from preventable diseases. This should be respected. If you have lost your vaccine card, ask the nursing sister or doctor where your vaccinations were originally done, if they still have a record. Most have a backup record of the child’s notes or on their systems. In this way they can recreate your vaccine record card.

where to find help For vaccination queries, the Amayeza Information Centre: 0860 160 160 For more articles on immunisations: childmag.co.za

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August 2015

dealing with difference

motor neuron disease

genes and mutations According to the Australian MND Association, only about 10% of MND cases are “familial”, meaning more than one person in the family suffers from it. Thus, 90% of cases are referred to as sporadic MND, and the cause is unknown. The role of genetics in MND is intricate, but researchers have found that people with familial MND have the disorder because of a mutation in a gene, which causes the gene to function abnormally. This genetic mutation can be passed on through generations. In some cases, if a parent has a genetic mutation, their child has a 50/50 chance of inheriting MND. People who inherit an MNDrelated genetic mutation have a high but uncertain chance of developing MND, and not all people with this gene will inherit the disease. Can this mutation be detected early and treated? Dr Franclo Henning, a neurologist in Cape Town and the

August 2015

People struck down by MND waste away before our eyes. MARINA ZIETSMAN looks at this condition and its alleged link to contact sport.

chairman of the Motor Neuron Disease Association of South Africa (MNDASA), says it can be picked up by testing for the mutation that the parent has, but nothing can be done about it, even if detected before it shows signs. “Even in familial cases of MND, the disease mostly manifests in adulthood,” says Henning. “The reason for this is not quite clear. There are a number of other diseases that are also inherited and mainly manifest in adulthood.” Henning adds that one of the theories is that the disease only manifests once combined with “normal wear and tear” of advancing age. Another possibility, he says, is that the damage caused by the mutation takes time to accumulate and only shows symptoms later in life.

other culprits According to the MNDASA the cause of MND is not clear. Researchers believe they found a link between a cycad and MND in Guam, but Henning says a toxin theory has never been proven. “There was an initial small study that suggested occupational exposure to pesticides may be a risk factor, but subsequent larger populationbased studies could not confirm this,” says Henning. Some researchers have indicated that a virus, which lies latent within the system for a long period, could cause MND. Henning refutes this: “There is absolutely no evidence for the disease being caused by a virus. The cause of sporadic MND is still unknown. Most

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photograph: Shutterstock.com

t just 13 years old, Emma Goodman was diagnosed as the youngest sufferer of motor neuron disease (MND) in Britain, and the youngest to die of this debilitating disease in the UK. She passed away quietly in her sleep when she was 17 years old. Her family knew her time with them was short, and they were also fully aware that the condition had already claimed the lives of seven members of Emma’s immediate family, including her dad.

experts believe it is caused by a combination of genetic predisposition and certain environmental triggers, still unknown.” He says there is another theory doing the rounds that the cause of sporadic MND is minute variations in the DNA that needs an additional factor, such as an environmental trigger, to cause the disease, which could also be one of the reasons why it’s so difficult to find the cause. Henning adds that another important consideration is that MND is probably not a disease, but a syndrome. “In other words, it is a collection of different diseases that share certain characteristics.”

There is absolutely no proof that trauma injuries on the sports field can be linked to MND. danger on the sports field Recent newspaper headlines have put the spotlight on celebrity sport stars, such as Joost van der Westhuizen, being devoured by the disease. The majority of sports-

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mad South Africans have suddenly taken notice of a disease first described in 1874. Watching little Johnny on the field during Bulletjie rugby training has brought the disease close to home. Should parents be worried? “There is absolutely no proof that trauma injuries on the sports field can be linked to MND,” says Henning. He adds that repeated head trauma does carry risks. Boxers, for instance, can develop a form of dementia and a condition called chronic traumatic encephalopathy. However, there is a world of difference between a sport like boxing, where the aim is to inflict injury, and rugby, where injury is the unfortunate side effect. “The sum of evidence from many population-based studies conducted over many years has shown that exercise is not a risk factor for MND,” says Henning. Studies have shown two examples where MND appears to be more common: in Italian soccer and American NFL (grid iron); however, it is suspected that this is due to a genetic predisposition in these groups, and has nothing to do with soccer or American football. In South Africa, four ex-international and provincial rugby players have been diagnosed since 2011, all of them younger than 45. It sounds excessive when we consider that 10 to 20 new cases per million are reported each year, but according to Henning, it is unlikely that taking part in sport alters one’s risk of developing MND.

motor neuron disease at a glance • Most people diagnosed with MND are over 40 years old. • Only 10% of people with MND develop it before the age of 45. • The highest incidence occurs between the ages of 50 and 70 years old. • Men are affected twice as often as women. • There is an increase in the amount of cases diagnosed worldwide, but this is most likely due to more accurate diagnostic testing. Because people tend to live longer, the incidence of a disease more common in older people will continue to increase. • If a parent has familial MND, children can be tested for the mutation, but this cannot be done in South Africa. DNA samples get sent overseas.

Motor Neuron Disease Association of South Africa 021 531 6130 mndaofsa@global.co.za mnda.org.za

August 2015

education

bunking school Truancy is a growing problem globally and it starts in the primary grades, affecting a child’s future if not addressed early. By GLYNIS HORNING

August 2015

emotional support demonstrated by their parents,” Van Breda reports in the journal Psychology. Whatever the cause of truancy, the effects can be considerable if it continues, he says. “General consensus seems to exist among researchers that truancy may be linked to serious, immediate and far-reaching consequences for youth, families, schools and communities.” It’s referred to as a “gateway crime”, he explains, because in the US most inmates in adult jails report their first appearance before a judge was as a juvenile on truancy charges.

parental responsibility But even at a less extreme level, poor attendance can have a damaging effect on a child’s education. In an interview in The Telegraph, the former British Minister of State for Schools, Nick Gibb, said children who attended school regularly had been found to be four times more likely to achieve five or more passes at the end of their schooling, including English and maths, than those who were persistently absent. In the UK and US, the problem is being addressed with stiff penalties. British parents can be fined £50 (about R800) for failing to ensure a child attends school, and this doubles if they don’t pay in 28 days. After 42 days they can be prosecuted and face imprisonment. They can also be subjected to “parenting contracts” – legally binding agreements forcing them to attend parenting courses and have counselling. According to the South African Schools Act (84 of 1996 as amended), it’s compulsory for children aged seven to 15 to attend school every day of the academic year. In terms of Section 3, any parent who “without just cause and after a

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PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

laying truant – taking unauthorised absence from school – is “a serious issue for schools and communities worldwide,” reports Maynard van Breda, a senior lecturer in the Department of Psychology of Education at UNISA. In the UK alone it’s estimated to have soared by 40% in the past 20 years, with more than 62 000 children a year now skipping school without a good excuse. While statistics are hard to come by in South Africa*, educationalists are concerned – and not only in connection with rural and township schools, where added socioeconomic factors exacerbate the problem. “Some children miss school to do seasonal farm work to support impoverished families, and Aids orphans stay home to care for siblings in child-headed households,” says Prof Ruksana Osman, head of Wits School of Education. “But there’s lots of truancy from wealthy families where children end up in clubs and on drugs. Truancy is a social phenomenon that cuts across the full spectrum of society, and the reasons are varied and complex.” In a thesis on truancy, Gauteng psychologist Dr Monkie Muriel Moseki lists, among the reasons, personality factors such as poor social skills, learning problems, scholastic failure and low self-esteem; school factors such as poor facilities, poor teaching, overcrowding and bullying; and family factors such as poor parental involvement, violence in the home and substance abuse. In a study on truants in the Western Cape, a quarter of those interviewed said they had chosen to skip school and preferred to be on the streets because of “chaotic family lives, including broken traditional family structures, a serious lack of interest shown, and very little social and

written notice from the Head of Department (at school), fails to comply, is guilty of an offence and liable, on conviction, to a fine or to imprisonment not exceeding six months.” The Policy on Learner Attendance (General Notice 361 of 2010) stipulates that a medical certificate is required, says Carol Lottering, principal of Manor Gardens Primary in Durban. The upshot is that many principals feel they cannot officially grant a request for a child to be absent from school – for example, to take advantage of cheaper out-of-season holiday travel (the second most common reason, after sickness, for British parents keeping children out of school – a pattern believed to be common in privileged South African schools too). In reality, however, principals may tacitly give permission, depending on the individual case, and an undertaking by parents to see the child makes up work missed. Some independent schools, especially those with children from other countries, take special measures to work around this. “Holidays are planned at the school to accommodate all the children from the various countries,” says Shivani Sahadeo, deputy principal: foundation phase at Crawford Preparatory in Pretoria. “Therefore, during the July break we have a longer break so that parents can plan accordingly.” Her school, like most well-functioning schools, takes attendance seriously and has measures in place to promote it. “We call parents after three days of a child not being at school, and find out the reasons,” she says. “Parents are then responsible for making sure that the catch-up work is done so the child doesn’t fall behind. Teachers will keep the work aside and assist if new concepts were taught.” Crawford has a tardiness policy too, and parents receive letters when children are brought to school late. “Learning the responsibility of

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is your child at risk? Education authorities say a typical truant: • most likely comes from an unhappy or dysfunctional home. • has too much freedom at home or too little encouragement to learn. • is depressed and anxious. • struggles to learn and to pass subjects, and so has a negative self-image and negative feelings about teachers and school. • lacks a sense of fitting in, possibly due to parents’ inability to afford uniforms or other things that help them feel included. • has difficulty socialising, and doesn’t feel emotionally connected with peers and teachers, lacking a sense of belonging and community. • is at a dysfunctional school where the staff is disinterested.

get help If you can’t control the problem, approach your child’s teacher or principal or the Department of Basic Education (call 0800 202 933). Get counselling if necessary: call the SA Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) 0800 21 22 23, sms 31393 or sadag.org.za

getting to school and on time is an integral part of our standard of excellence, which prepares the children for success – instructional time is viewed as a precious resource.” Lottering echoes this: “At Manor Gardens Primary we take pride in being an excellent school, and two of the many factors contributing to this are the encouragement of 100% pupil and staff school attendance, and teachers teaching and testing from the first until the last day of term. If truancy means missing school on a regular basis for no good reason, ours is almost zero.” Where truancy is a problem, which Osman believes is mainly at poorly-functioning government schools, she says the solution should lie not in harsh penalties including fines and imprisonment, but in a “nuanced approach – after all, travel can be educational, and what about parents’ rights to take children out of school occasionally?” Truancy is a complex matter and can’t just be legislated, she says. “But that doesn’t mean it should be uncontrolled. It should be handled collaboratively by the collective decisions of parents, schools, learners and communities.” It comes down to having clear, regular communication between parents and schools, Osman concludes – and if a child is absent, good follow-up and negotiation, or access to help from the Department of Social Welfare and Development. “School is an extension of the home. And if we get that relationship right, we can manage the problem.” *The Department of Basic Education did not respond to questions on the incidence of truancy in South Africa, the nature and number of penalties imposed, and other related issues, in spite of numerous emails and telephone calls from the writer over three weeks.

August 2015

parenting

the myth of work-life balance The struggle to find a happy medium between work and parenting isn’t a weakness; it’s human. SAMANTHA PAGE discovers that there are no easy answers, but there is hope.

t’s Honours Day at my son’s school, but instead of enjoying the choral items and the parade of neatly attired boys striding across the stage, I’m watching the clock. I’m expected back at the office in an hour, and I’m starting to wonder whether I’ll make it. My heart is galloping and my stomach is churning at the prospect of having to explain my tardiness to my boss, who explicitly asked me to come back to the office to attend an important meeting. I surreptitiously shoot off an email to my assistant, alerting her to a possible delay, careful to maintain eye contact with my son, who I know is watching me intently for any signs of distraction. A somewhat muted ping to my left, a vibrating handbag to my right, and, later, an embarrassed scuffle to answer a Mission Impossible ringtone behind, assures me I’m not alone in my juggling act. Believe me, the irony of that particular ringtone didn’t escape me.

setting years coincide,” says Becca, a senior sales executive in Cape Town, “and my company doesn’t have any policies in place to support working parents, let alone working women. Though I love my job, I hate feeling like I’m always sacrificing one thing to make the other work.” This eternal quest to find some semblance of balance is no longer just the domain of working mothers. An increasing number of dual-income families means that these issues hit home with working fathers too. Increasingly, dads are spending more hours parenting and taking care of the home. In one 2013 study, it was estimated that 88,2% of families with children under 18 had at least one parent in the workforce, which means more families than ever are engaged in this balancing act. But the “Mommy Wars” have been raging since the early 80s. Achieving worklife balance has been the topic of many

“Working parents are like plate spinners at a carnival,” says a Forbes magazine writer. “They juggle their children’s school schedules and activities while balancing their own work deadlines, attending conferences, and sneaking in the occasional shower.” Everyone I ask says the same thing: raising children is hard; so is building a career. “Having children and working to advance yourself professionally inevitably overlap since our child-bearing and career-

August 2015

self-help books, seminars and movies, and working parents have been fighting the guilt of trundling off to work despite their little one’s tummy ache for more decades than any of us care to remember, so what has changed? “Context,” writes Tovah Klein, child psychologist and author of How Toddlers Thrive. “Increased opportunities and expectations have evolved in our hyperconnected world and women now participate in many, if not all, professions.” magazine joburg

PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

What matters most is not how many hours parents spend with their children, but rather how engaged parents are when they’re with their children.

integration So, what are the realities for working parents? Can women do it all? Will your child be less successful at school while you build your career? There are no simple yes or no answers to these questions, though often that’s how they are framed. Perhaps work-life integration is the new normal, suggests Laura Vanderkam, author of I Know How She Does It: How Successful Women Make the Most of Their Time. “Increasingly people are rejecting the notion of work-life balance in favour of another phrase: work-life integration. Thanks to smartphones and the growing popularity of working remotely, moving work around on dimensions of time and space is not only possible, but has become the norm.” While this might not yet be commonplace in South Africa, some multinationals are starting to take note of reality, and with more women in the workplace, and many graduates weighing up local job opportunities with international ones, flexible working hours is fast becoming “a very attractive differentiator for a company to offer its new recruits and to have as a retention tool,” says Cathy Smith, at the time, HR director at IBM South and Central Africa. But in addition to legislation, change needs to happen at an organisational level, which means changes in structure and culture, and also at an individual level, suggests Marjolijn Dijksterhuis, director of the UCT Graduate School of Business’ Women in Leadership course. Locally, the Clicks Group Limited is moving in an admirable direction, making work-life integration possible by implementing HR policies to support working parents. Awarded the Top Employers South Africa 2015 certification, the Clicks Group is living its transformation agenda, says Germinah Nyikana, Learning and Development Manager. “Clicks has implemented impressive flexibility policies, magazine joburg

generous maternity benefits and has also gender-aligned their CSI policies.”

beyond work-life balance While strides are being made to provide more flexibility and integration between work and home life, what can working parents do in the meantime to cope with the demands of career and family and the ever-increasing guilt? For starters, try to think beyond worklife balance. Experts agree that it’s an unrealistic goal that just makes you feel like you’re failing at everything. “Words like ‘multitasking’ and ‘balance’ are code words for the ability to run faster than a colleague or the ability to keep plates spinning in the air like the best Chinese juggler,” writes The Balance Myth author Teresa Taylor. “The problem with these concepts is that eventually one trips, or gravity wins.” “The reality is that the more involved you are with your child the more successful he will be,” says Gauteng-based educational psychologist Leila Abdool Gafoor. “Parental involvement enhances knowledge, confidence and self-esteem; however, children are stronger than we realise and often have such a high internal locus of control that they perform, unassisted, in some circumstances. Supporting your child does not mean attending all the events in which he participates. It involves being supportive at home, helping your child practise, and motivating and building his confidence with praise,” says Gafoor. Groundbreaking research from a study in the April Journal of Marriage and Family revealed that what matters most is not how many hours parents – particularly mothers – spend with their children, but rather how engaged parents are when they’re with their children. The study, which investigated children’s behaviour, emotional health and academic achievement, also concluded that August 2015

parenting

spending too much time with your children – especially if you’re stressed – can be detrimental to parents and children alike. Sustainable change always needs to happen from the inside out. While organisations should see the value in supporting working parents by implementing policies to that effect, individuals need to be bold enough to ask prospective employers about what kind of flexibility is offered, in the same way they would inquire about health care benefits. Families need to

change the way responsibilities are divvied, and parents should use pockets of time with their children with renewed focus on quality interactions. No family situation is, or ever will be, perfect, but as a working parent, you and your children have the power to create what works for you. Parents need to nurture and love their children, and children need to be empowered to support you and their family. When you make the shift in your head, you’ll almost always feel it in your heart.

six techniques for working parents By Teresa Taylor, author of The Balance Myth 1 Stop multitasking “Instead of trying to do several things at once, plan your day so that you have blocks of time (even if they’re only 10 or 15 minutes long), where you are working exclusively on only one thing.” 2 Assign a time limit to everything you do “I applied this rule to both work and home, and while it takes some practise and a willingness to let go of perfection, it helps you stay focused on the task at hand.” 3 Keep one calendar “Early in my career, I kept separate calendars for work and home, and meeting and appointment overlaps occurred, and I missed a few things. Noting personal and professional items on the same calendar prevents that.” 4 Have a daycare Plan B (and C, and D) “Daycare failure. Two words that panic any working mother. I learnt this the hard way when I had to fire a Babysitter From Hell on a day when my husband was out of town and I was late for a big meeting. On that occasion, luckily, my mom rode to the rescue – but from that point on, I always had at least one backup plan, just in case.” 5 Learn how to delegate “Many years ago, six months into a new, longdesired job, I thought I was going to have to resign, because I didn’t want the shame of being fired. My problem was that I didn’t know how to delegate the work, lead through others, or say no. Luckily, I had a boss who was willing to mentor me and who taught me that I needed to ask for help.” 6 Make your home life a priority “If your personal life is a mess, you’ll never be your best at work. You can’t take the mother out of the career woman or the career out of the mother, so use both to your advantage.”

August 2015

magazine joburg

book extract

tastes like

freedom Try these delicious LCHF recipes from KAREN THOMSON and KERRY HAMMERTON’S Sugar Free for a sustainable sugar-free lifestyle. vegetarian thin-crust cheese pizza serves 8

PHOTOGRAPHS: Donna Lewis and Caroline Gardner

ingredients | base • 3 eggs • 225g grated mozzarella cheese • 112g grated cheddar cheese • ground crystals or flaked salt and ground black pepper • 1 crushed garlic clove (optional) • 1 tsp mixed herbs ingredients | toppings • tomato paste or purée • raw toppings of your choice, e.g. mushrooms, feta cheese, olives, buffalo mozzarella, basil leaves and cherry tomatoes. Non-vegetarian options include ham and anchovies.

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method Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a medium-sized baking tray with butter. Make the base by beating the eggs together. Mix with all the cheese, seasoning, garlic and herbs. Evenly spread the egg and cheese mixture on the baking tray, almost to the edges, making it as thin as possible. Bake for 15–25 minutes or until the base is golden brown. Remove the pizza base from the oven and while warm, spread with a thin layer of tomato paste or purée. Add the raw toppings and put the pizza under the oven grill for approximately 4–5 minutes, or until the toppings are cooked.

August 2015

book extract

nutty muffins Note: Do not eat more than one serving a day because nuts and seeds are quite high in carbohydrates. makes 12 ingredients • 200g mixed seeds • 400g nuts of your choice, such as almonds, walnuts, Brazil nuts, macadamia nuts • 3 eggs • 4 egg whites • pinch of ground crystals or flaked salt • cup coconut oil, melted method Preheat the oven to 160°C. Grind all the seeds and half the nuts in a food processor until flour-like in texture. Chop the remaining nuts roughly. In a separate bowl whisk the eggs and egg whites together. Combine all the ingredients and mix well. Grease 12 muffin tins and pour in the mixture. Bake for 50–60 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool. Store in an airtight container for up to seven days. They’re great served with sardines, avocado and tomato slices, or with a soft cream cheese or goat’s cheese.

August 2015

vegetarian thai green curry serves 2 ingredients • 2 tbsp coconut oil ingredients | vegetables • ½ diced onion • 1 diced courgette • 3 chopped garlic cloves • ½ cup cabbage • 1 cup tinned peas • 1 cup broccoli, spinach and mushrooms or a light veg combination ingredients | sauce • 2 small red onions • 1 tsp green curry paste • 1 tbsp grated ginger • ½ cup coriander leaves

• ½ cup torn basil leaves • 1 cup coconut milk • 1 tbsp soy sauce • juice of 1 lime or ½ lemon method In a large saucepan, heat the coconut oil. Sauté the onion, courgette and garlic for about 5 minutes until soft. Set the vegetables aside. Make the sauce by placing all the sauce ingredients in a food processor. Blend the mixture until smooth. Transfer the sauce to the saucepan of cooked veggies. Simmer on low. Add the cabbage, tinned peas and any green veggies of your choice. Heat through. Serve the warm curry with fresh coriander leaves. It’s delicious on a cup of steamed cauli-rice (optional). Refrigerate any leftovers in a sealed container for up to three days.

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nutty flapjacks Note: If you’re eating flapjacks with whipped cream and berries, remember to add additional fat and fruit portions. makes 6 ingredients • 1 tsp butter (or 1 tsp coconut oil) batter • 3 eggs • cup (100g) nut flour (or substitute coconut flour) • ¼ tsp bicarbonate of soda • 1 tbsp milk, coconut milk or almond milk • scraped seeds of 1 vanilla pod (optional but delicious)

Heat a small frying pan and melt the butter or coconut oil. Add a ladleful of flapjack mixture.

Cook

for

few minutes at medium heat. Wait for air bubbles to appear on top before flipping the flapjacks with a spatula and cooking the other side. Remove flapjacks from the pan and keep warm. Serve with whipped cream and

method Make the flapjack mixture by whisking the eggs together. Gradually stir the egg liquid into the dry ingredients. Once the egg and flour are combined, add the milk with vanilla, and mix through. Let the batter stand for 5 minutes.

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fresh or stewed berries. Tip: Make your own nut flour by blending nuts such as almonds, walnuts or macadamias in a food

processor

until

they

resemble coarse flour. Don’t overdo it or your nut flour will turn into nut butter.

about the book Sugar Free by Karen Thomson and Kerry Hammerton (Sunbird Publishers) is packed with scientific research and nutritional advice to help you understand sugar and carb addiction. The book also has dietician-approved weekly meal plans and recipes, including options for vegetarians, along with journal exercises, to help you break the mental, physical and emotional traps of old eating patterns. Sugar Free is available from all good bookstores for R250.

August 2015

education

learning

curves How children learn can impact their success in tests and exams. TAMLYN VINCENT discovers study methods that work and those that don’t.

what really works? A study by Dunlosky et al, published in the journal, Psychological Science, in 2013, had the five authors investigating study methods to learn which work and which don’t. Top of the pile of those that don’t work is highlighting. On the flip side, practise testing has proven to be very effective, as has distributed learning (when learners spread out their revision and learning times over a long period). “A good study technique starts at the beginning of the year and requires preparation before class, listening during class, proper daily revision and committing to good homework practices,” says Sharon Aitken, an educational psychologist

August 2015

in Cape Town. Consistent work during the year is important, not only because learners will gain an understanding of the work, but also because when it comes to exam time, they will only need to revise the notes they have made throughout the year and practise the skills they will need. For distributed learning to work, children need to apply their time management skills, ensuring that they schedule regular homework time.

practise makes perfect Making notes is a skill. Aitken says that notes should help you recall the work, not simply recognise it, as you will need to remember it. Mind maps or flash cards can work, says Brett Botha, who runs an extra tuition centre in Durban. These can be used effectively for practise testing, by placing a question on one side and the answer on the other. Nikki Wates, who has developed a study skills programme for primary school learners, says that flash cards are an effective study method. “They’re portable, and the constant repetition means knowledge is committed to long-term memory. Mind maps use both the left and right side of the brain, and they work well for visual learners,” says Wates.

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PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

olour-coded notes, keyword clouds and cute drawings may make your child’s notes look wonderful, but do they help them learn? Considering the time and effort it takes to make such colourful masterpieces out of her study notes, your child should be excelling. Is she? It could be that these study techniques, while impressive to look at, aren’t actually effective.

But it is a difficult technique to grasp, and children often need to learn how to see the bigger picture, rather than isolated facts, which can take time and dedication from adults. Doing past papers and redoing worksheets are other ways to practise skills and test knowledge. “People learn more from their mistakes than from the things they get right,” says Botha. So children can also go over past tests and worksheets, to see where they went wrong and how to fix this. “It’s important to see the pattern of mistakes made,” advises Aitken, so look for problem areas, like going off track, writing too little or not understanding the question. Children can speak to their teachers to find out where they can improve. Learning from their mistakes also builds self-belief in children, says Botha.

parental involvement Another effective way to study is to teach someone else, which helps children understand the subject better, and helps them figure out where the gaps in their knowledge are, says Botha. Parents can be effective study partners here, encouraging children to check their notes to fill in any blanks. Parents can help in other ways too, particularly as supervisors. Aitken says that the brain only stops developing in the mid-20s, and executive function skills, like time management or the ability to delay gratification, are the last to develop. So parents should be continually monitoring, supervising and teaching children the skills they need to study effectively. “Parents are essential,” says Aitken, “as most children do not have the ability to apply study techniques consistently through the year, usually leaving it to the last minute.”

no cramming Last-minute revision is not effective. Cramming, learning select material, and reading through wads of text doesn’t commit the material to memory. Transferring knowledge into long-term memory is key, says Botha. But a lot of study techniques, like highlighting or

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underlining, take time and don’t really help children. “Learners tend to highlight too much instead of picking out one or two key words from each fact, which is counterproductive,” notes Wates. Children end up rote learning, which takes time and doesn’t help them answer questions, as they struggle to separate essential from non-essential information, says Aitken. Memory techniques, or mnemonics, can help but only if children understand the work properly first, advises Aitken.

in short The study also pointed out that summarising wasn’t always effective, as it was time-consuming and there is some skill involved in doing it properly. If learners are simply rewriting notes, they probably won’t remember much, says Wates. But when they intentionally search for key words or main ideas, recall is likely to be better. Botha does say that each learner is different, and various techniques will work for each person. But dedicating time to effective studying is essential, as children need to first understand the material and then learn it. “So while certain techniques can improve your results, there is no replacement for consistently working during the year,” says Aitken.

exam time Everyone gets a little anxious during test and exam time. “Some anxiety is good as it helps you to think better,” notes Aitken. But too much can cause panic, and learners can go blank in the exam. If children have been studying throughout the year, are familiar with the work, and confident in their abilities, these can help to ease the nerves. Using relaxation techniques can also help. But if the anxiety has got to the stage where panic is going to set in, short-term anxiety-relieving medication can help. There are herbal tablets available, or you can speak to your doctor about short-term prescription medication. Medication reduces the phobic response, says Aitken, so in the long term children will probably need less medication.

August 2015

getaway

amsterdam

a celebration of history, art and light

You can experience a tremendous amount of this colourful city in just

he capital of the Netherlands is well known for its artistic heritage and narrow houses with beautiful gabled facades perched on meandering canals. It is home to the Dutch masters, as well as modern art collections, edgy fashion and colourful houseboats. The locals are friendly and (if your Afrikaans is good) easy to understand. Although the city deserves a month’s stay, two families managed to see and do a great deal in a recent two-day stopover.

A city icon and great photo op

The floating flower market

where have all the flowers gone?

Amsterdam, the most watery city in the world

August 2015

High-street fashion shopping in Kalverstraat

In Amsterdam, you’ll find them at the Floating Flower Market. Tulips of every hue and fragrance, and bulbs for sale, make this a good stop for the whole family. It’s also a great place to buy Dutch cheese. We couldn’t get enough of this national treasure and loaded our bags with a dozen different flavours, only to have it confiscated as we went through customs in Joburg. amsterdam.info/ shopping/flowermarket For more shopping we headed to Kalverstraat for high-street fashion and then on to Negenstraatjes as the teenagers were keen to experience the local designers. I was content to amble through the Jordaan, a charming shoppingeating-arty part of town. The Dutch have perfected the art of lighting, resulting in window displays that are true works of art. amsterdam.info/shopping

magazine joburg

PHOTOGRAPHS: JOSIE DAVIS / shutterstock.com / De Jongh Photography / Christian Mueller / Birute Vijeikiene / Nando Machado

48 hours, as LISA MC NAMARA discovered on a recent trip with her family.

for a bit of culture Head to the Great Waterloo District. In the heart of Amsterdam’s Jewish quarter, the area around Waterlooplein is now the site of the Jewish Historical Museum and Rembrandt House. Waterlooplein itself is home to a wonderful flea market as well as the Muziektheater, home of the Dutch national opera and ballet companies. operaballet.nl A school readathon resulted in my daughter, Robyn, having just completed both The Diary of Anne Frank and The Fault in Our Stars days before landing in Amsterdam, so a trip to Anne Frank House was top of our list. Climbing the stairs, stepping through “the cupboard” and imagining how difficult it must have been to walk on the wooden floorboards without them creaking, made for memorable moments in this World War II hideout where Anne wrote her famous diary. annefrank.org Having grown up in a house where (a replica of) The Night Watch took centre stage, my husband was delighted to have the opportunity to view the real thing at the Rijksmuseum. It is located at the Museum Square in the borough Amsterdam South, close to the Van Gogh Museum (which sadly, we didn’t get to). Tickets for most museums can be booked online, way in advance, avoiding long queues and niggly children. Although a guided tour was on offer, we chose a multimedia tour at the Rijksmuseum, which the children found thoroughly entertaining. rijksmuseum.nl

eating out

Statue of Anne Frank on Westerkerk Plaza

Amsterdam is a warm and welcoming city, and its cuisine reflects its multiculturalism. We dined at delicious Turkish, Italian and traditionally Dutch eateries, some located down dark, cobbled lanes and others overlooking the beautifully lit canals and houseboats.

The Arborescence display at the Amsterdam Light Festival

Jack and Josie on one of the many beautiful bridges

getting around The central area of Amsterdam is easy to get around on foot. The GVB public transport office at Centraal Station has route maps and a guide to the ticketing system, which is based on zones with the same ticket valid on buses, metros and trams. gvb.nl The ideal way to get around is by bicycle; there are several rental agencies around town (about €7 daily or €30 weekly). But with two families, nine of us in total, we opted for trains and trams when we weren’t walking. If the weather is good, exploring on foot is the way to go. Start with the City Free Tour (cityfreetour.com/Amsterdam) to get your bearings, then move onto the canal bus or cruises with audio or commentary (canalcompany.nl). We were lucky enough to experience the Water Colours Cruise during the Amsterdam Light Festival. Inspired by the theme “The Bright City”, national and international artists displayed around 20 fantastic artworks of light.

Live like a local, rent a houseboat

Jack and Robyn ready to board

getting there…

Jack and Robyn enjoying Amsterdam’s public transport

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Trams run from 6am until 12:30am

We flew KLM, and loved it! The seats were comfortable, toilets always clean and staff warm and professional. Visit klm.com and download the app for easy check-ins and flight updates.

August 2015

parenting

word? what’s in a

It’s not uncommon for children to swear, says

GARY KOEN, but the challenge for parents is to

remember my five-year-old son asking me: “Dad, what happens if you say the F-word?” He didn’t ask it in a naughty or precocious way – it was a genuine, thoughtful question, which required a genuine, thoughtful answer. And the truth is: nothing really happens if you say the F-word. Aunt Petunia may choke on her shortbread. Dad may go pale and edge nervously away from Mom. But other than that, nothing actually happens. The world still turns, the birds carry on singing, and just maybe a whole new conversation with your child begins. While you certainly don’t want to encourage your children to swear, it’s important to keep it in perspective if they do. Swearwords, by their very definition, are rude and offensive otherwise they wouldn’t be considered swearwords. Despite their offensive nature, however, they’re still just words. But like most words, how they are used is what matters.

August 2015

While sergeant-majors may have elevated swearing to a kind of art form, for the majority of us, swearing is a somewhat limited way of expressing ourselves. Children, however, are naturally inquisitive. For many of them, a new word can be something like a new toy, to be played and experimented with in a wide variety of situations – and they’ll often delight in the reactions they get. However, when fetching your six-year-old daughter from school and asking how her day was, you would not expect her to reply: “I had a beeping great day, thanks Dad. How was yours?” If you ever find yourself in such a predicament, your role is to educate and intervene so that they quickly learn when, if ever, there is an appropriate time to use a swearword.

watch your language The message you want your children to get is that, yes, there are swearwords, magazine joburg

PHOTOGRAPH / ILLUSTRATION: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

keep things in perspective.

which are easy to acquire and easy to use, but they should rather focus on expanding and growing their vocabulary so that they are able to express themselves and their feelings in ways that are both understandable and appropriate. In simple terms, you need them to understand that there are so many other words that they first need to learn before they even think of using swearwords. One of the main reasons that parents don’t want their children to swear is because it’s considered rude and disrespectful. Well-brought up children are not supposed to be rude and disrespectful. Furthermore, it’s considered very embarrassing for parents if their offspring engage in random acts of swearing, especially in front of other adults, as this may indicate that they have clearly failed in their duty to raise well-behaved children. Now, an important point to bear in mind is that swearwords are not the first words that children learn as they acquire the ability to speak. It’s not like it goes “Mama”, “Dada”, “doggie”, “#@*&!”. Instead, children learn these words from older brothers and sisters, but mostly from their parents. So, while you may be tempted to race for the soap when little Jonny lets fly a bunch of expletives, watching your own mouth in the presence of your children is equally important. Similarly, adults who don’t have children are often quite oblivious to the need to watch their language when visiting friends with children. It’s best to quickly yet discreetly remind them of who else might be overhearing the conversation. There is no need to be overly judgemental or critical, as it is unnecessary to demonise either the word or your friend. Most true friends will instantly respect your wishes.

can be sure that one of the others would quickly run to the teacher or a parent to tell on them. But among eight to 10 year olds, it would certainly not be unusual for them to sample a whole range of expletives and expressions. By the time they become teenagers, the fact that they swear hardly raises an eyebrow. Nevertheless, on each occasion, the context in which the swearing takes place remains consistently important.

words as weapons While children certainly do swear among themselves, it becomes a noticeable issue when they start swearing at their parents. This can become particularly difficult when they become teenagers capable of using words like blunt force weapons designed to exact maximum pain and hurt. When this happens, there are clear boundary and relationship issues at stake, which points towards an underlying frustration that needs more attention than the words themselves. Often you will find that these children do feel incredibly frustrated with their parents, particularly with their emphasis on how they should be behaving, and the expectation that they should always be good boys and girls without really knowing or feeling the benefit of why they should always be so good. Often their anger is a direct retaliation to their parents’ anxiety around how they are behaving, without attempting to understand why they are behaving like this. The parents, in turn, often feel hurt and misunderstood, and frequently resort to sulking themselves. What you will inevitably find, however, is that these children are looking for a real connection with their parents. Being openly rude is their last resort of making such a connection. Stopping the swearing

Children learn swearwords from older brothers and sisters, but mostly from their parents. Also bear in mind that while swearing may be considered rude and vulgar, it also presents an opportunity to be rude and vulgar. No-one is good all the time, and amongst friends and acquaintances, who is to say we shouldn’t use the occasion to fire off a few choice swearwords? However, it would be uncommon for a group of five to six year olds to swear among each other. The main reason for this is a sense of compliancy and obedience to their parents and a fear of the consequences. If a five year old swears among his friends, you magazine joburg

and the rudeness and the hurt is very important, but it has to be replaced with genuine talking, listening and an authentic willingness to understand where these children are coming from and what they are feeling. This needs to be accompanied with the message that being able to communicate one’s anger and frustration is very important, and this can at times include swearing, but it is equally true that swearing cannot become the only way in which they express themselves and expect to be understood. August 2015

resource

a medieval history tour at greensleeves

SIMONE JEFFERY gathers information on some of the most interesting Joburg venues that can cater to school groups.

August 2015

Age groups Grades 5–7 Opening times 9am–12pm Monday– Friday. Bookings essential. Physical address Hekpoort Rd, R563, Sterkfontein Contact 083 229 5677, 082 602 2958, info@greensleeves.co.za or greensleeves.co.za

constitution hill This National Heritage site has witnessed over a century of South African history; from soldiers who fought in the Anglo-Boer War at the turn of the century and political prisoners and resistors to the repressive apartheid regime and the youth caught up in the Soweto Uprising along with the dawn of democracy. The educational tour includes all four sections of the site and educates learners about the history of the country and its injustices. Learners have an opportunity to experience what happened in the past and link it to the present. They are taken to the Women’s Prison, Old Fort Prison that held Nelson Mandela, Number Four Prison that held Robert Sobukwe and Mahatma

Gandhi, and the Constitutional Court comprised of the judge’s chambers, art gallery and the court foyer. Maximum number of heads Learners are split into groups of 30 per tour guide to ensure that they can all concentrate and participate fully. Age groups Grades R–12 and adults Opening times Tours take place hourly from 9am–5pm (last tour 4pm) Monday–Friday, 10am–3pm (last tour 2pm) Saturday and Sunday. Bookings are essential. Physical address Constitution Hill, 1 Kotze St, Braamfontein Contact 011 381 3100, info@constitutionhill.org.za or constitutionhill.org.za

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PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

unusual

school outings

Children are introduced to medieval history and learn about castles, knights, weaponry and armour, growing up in the Middle Ages, lavish banquets, and tournaments. The tour concludes with a meal of pottage (thick soup) and homebaked manchet bread, followed by syllabub (old English dessert). The meal, manners and customs are explained to the children and some of them will act as the serving wenches and lackeys. Maximum number of heads Minimum of 60 learners; maximum of 120 learners. Smaller groups can be combined with other school groups of a similar age.

delta park environmental centre Delta Park Environmental Centre offers fun, hands-on programmes that explore the natural environment and cement the concepts that have been handled in the classroom. Their team works closely with the department of education to tailormake programmes that meet specific curriculum requirements and age levels. Programmes introduce children to the natural environment with topics ranging from the four seasons, plants and seeds, the circle of life, creepy crawlies, pollution and recycling, and biodiversity. In-depth programmes for Grade 7–12 learners are also available. Maximum number of heads There is no set limit. Age groups Grades R–12 Opening times 9am–12pm Monday– Friday. The programme takes an hour-and-a-half for foundation phase learners and up to three hours for older learners. Bookings are essential. Physical address Delta Park, Rd no 3, Victory Park Contact 011 888 4831, jana@ deltaenviro.org.za or deltaenviro.org.za

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hartebeesthoek radio astronomy observatory (HartRAO) At HartRAO, learners tackle space-related concepts while finding out more about the radio astronomy and Space Geodesy research done at the observatory. Activities can be tailor-made to suit the teacher’s needs and include watching movies on space exploration, learning to tell the time using the sun, launching water/air rockets to learn about the basic principles of physics, setting up a scale model of the solar system to learn about the planets, getting a close-up view of the 26-metre diameter radio telescope, and lots more. Visits can take place during the day, in the evenings or overnight. During an evening or overnight visit you have the added benefit of using binoculars and telescopes to

view planets, stars, nebulae and galaxies (weather permitting). Maximum number of heads Minimum of 20, maximum of 60 children and adults per day visit, 50 children and six adults for an evening visit, and 30 children and six adults for an overnight visit. Age groups Grade 3 and older Opening times Day visits typically take place from 9am–12pm or 12:30pm–3:30pm, evening visits typically run from 4pm–8pm, and overnight visits are from 4pm until 8am the following day. Bookings are essential. Physical address HartRAO, off the R400, Hartebeesthoek Contact 012 301 3100, aware@hartrao. ac.za or hartrao.ac.za

August 2015

resource

johannesburg heritage foundation The Johannesburg Heritage Foundation conducts three school tours on the heritage of Joburg, and each can be customised to suit the teacher and field of study. Learners in Grades 3 to 5 don pinafores and sailor suits while they sit in a 100-yearold Edwardian classroom and experience the joys of dip-pens, blotting paper and inkwells during the Now and Then tour. Grade 6 and 7 learners can take the Arts and Crafts Heritage tour, which visits The View, Hazeldene Hall and The National Children’s Theatre, and discusses the art and crafts that form part of our city’s heritage. The Grade 6 and 7 learners are also able to take the Herbert Baker walk, an educational Parktown meander that

August 2015

showcases the architectural talents of Sir Herbert Baker. Maximum number of heads Minimum of 35 learners; maximum between 50–80 learners Age groups Grades 3–7 Opening times Mondays–Fridays, tours take place for three hours from 9am–12:30pm. Bookings are essential. Physical address Parktown area Contact 011 482 3349 (between 9am–1pm Monday–Friday), mail@joburgheritage.co.za or joburgheritage.co.za

the parks farm in benoni Children can visit The Parks to experience how vegetables are grown using various techniques and learn nutritional facts about the produce. Topics covered and the duration of the tour can be adapted to suit the ages of the learners. They have the opportunity to touch and smell the vegetables grown in the greenhouse tunnels, learn about good and bad insects, and also discuss healthy food choices. There is a child-friendly restaurant on the premises and tours can include an optional pizza-making experience. Maximum number of heads There is no set limit but groups are generally kept to 15 learners. Age groups Grades R–7 Opening times Open from 9am–5pm Wednesday–Sunday. School tours take place on a Wednesday morning and take approximately 30 minutes depending on the level of the learners. Bookings are essential. Physical address 168 Kenmuir St, Norton’s Home Estates, Benoni Contact 072 356 7816, bookings@ theparksfarm.co.za or theparksfarm.co.za

magazine joburg

books

a good

read

toddlers

Look Who’s Hiding!: Colours By Sharon Rentta (Published by Scholastic, R121) There are lots of colours to spot in the garden. Pull the slide-out pages to reveal the cats splashing in their bright yellow wellies, mouse snuggling in his favourite red sock, a cute puppy wearing four blue boots, and a cuddly bunny with pink pyjamas getting ready for bed. This is the fourth book in the Look Who’s Hiding! series. The other books introduce your toddler to animal sounds, counting and opposites.

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Love from The Very Hungry Caterpillar By Eric Carle (Published by Puffin Books, R86) Join The Very Hungry Caterpillar for a celebration of love and all the ways to tell that special someone how much you care about them. This delightful little book features Eric Carle’s bright and distinctive artwork, from pretty sweets to sparkling stars, with The Very Hungry Caterpillar making an appearance alongside each one. Toddlers from two years old will feel the love with this little gem.

Little Humans By Brandon Stanton

Annie Learns to Swim By Katrin Coetzer preschoolers

(Published by Macmillan Children’s Books, R186) Street photographer and storyteller extraordinaire, Brandon Stanton is the author of the number one New York Times bestseller, Humans of New York. To create Little Humans, a 40-page photographic picture book for young children, he’s combined an original narrative with some of his favourite children’s photos. Even though the focus is on American children, it’s a celebration of all little humans and their wonderful imaginations and spirit.

(Published by Bumble Books, R135) Annie’s mom wants her to learn how to swim, so she buys her a new swimming costume. But Annie doesn’t like water – it’s wet and splashy and deep, until Miss Klara, the swimming teacher, pairs Annie with Lisa, who swims just like a sea otter. This simple, engaging story incorporates a child’s nervousness of swimming and shows basic instruction in action. But this isn’t a “teach yourself” book – it’s a story about Annie and her doubts and fears, and her growing friendship with Lisa, a better swimmer. The book is also available in Afrikaans: Annie Leer Swem.

August 2015

books

early graders

preteens and teens

African Mammals By Sally MacLarty (Published by Struik Nature, R60) Why do elephants flap their ears? Which big cat leaps into the air to catch birds? Children from the age of eight years old can discover the answers to these questions and enjoy hours of colouring fun. There are more than 40 animals to colour in, each illustration providing inquisitive children with interesting facts as they work through the book. The centre spread contains a pull-out gallery of all the animals in full colour. These can serve to guide children in colouring in the outlined images – or they can use their imagination.

August 2015

Imagine Your Life Book 1 By Gail Venter

Box of Rocks By Nick Norman

(Published by Porcupine Press, R140) This activity book will give your child aged eight and older the great pleasure of getting to know themselves better. In knowing yourself better you become more powerful in your life, your decisions and choices are more aligned to who you are and what you want to do and be. The goal is to understand what you are capable of. The author’s aim with this book is to share with children the life skills and conscious living techniques she has learnt, and to give them the opportunity to see how exciting and deep their lives can be. Order the book from imagineyourlife.co.za

(Published by Struik Nature, R80) Well-known geologist Nick Norman leads young readers into the absorbing world of geology. Budding rock collectors will find out all about the rocks that they’ll encounter in southern Africa, with a view to building their own rock collections. Box of Rocks is packed with fascinating information about how rocks form, how to identify the different rock types, what rocks are made of, what different rocks are used for, and where to go to collect each rock type. Readers will also learn about Stone Age tools, fossils and some of our best-known geological sites.

What Happened When in the World Senior editor: Robert Houston (Published by Dorling Kindersley, R275) This book shows history as you’ve never seen it before. Children can step into What Happened When in the World, a unique historical atlas for children, and discover the global events that shaped our world. Watch the key moments in our history unravel on the page in front of you through colourful, illustrated 3-D maps. Follow the devastating spread of the Black Death through Europe, the Roman Empire’s expansion into North Africa and the Middle East, the impact of World War II on the globe, and other significant events.

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parenting

Notes from a Headmaster’s Desk By Marc Falconer

for us

(Published by Pan Macmillan South Africa, R198) Marc Falconer has been involved in education for many years at several independent schools in South Africa. He provides behind-the-scenes anecdotes and insights into the true state of the nation’s schools, as well as into the mysterious workings of teenage minds, interpreting situations that he encounters on a daily basis. This is an entertaining and thought-provoking account of the issues and challenges of education, parenting and teenagers in SA today.

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Crash and Burn By Lisa Gardner

Blending Families By Flicky Gildenhuys

(Published by Headline Publishing, R208) Nicky Frank is in hospital after a car crash. She can only think about Vero, who she knows she must save, but she cannot find the little girl. The man standing in her hospital room tells her they are married, but there is no Vero; that six months ago she suffered a brain injury, which causes mood swings, an inability to concentrate and large gaps in her memory. And that she drinks. All of which, he says, explains the car accident. Now Sergeant Wyatt Foster is investigating. He has questions about the car accident and her husband. And he’s worried about a missing girl...

(Published by Struik Lifestyle, R200) Integrating former family units into a new, strong, happy and successful blended family can be a minefield, but it can also be a thoroughly rewarding voyage of discovery. Blending Families explores how the impact of the past and hopes for the future can shape the way we manage the everyday challenges of living in a blended family. Flicky Gildenhuys equips the reader to anticipate what may or may not happen, and provides parents with triedand-tested, down-to-earth psychological tools and experience gained from decades of family counselling.

Early Childhood Development Checklist By Carla Grobler (Published by Struik Lifestyle, R176) Parents of babies and young children are constantly watching and wondering whether their children are reaching their developmental milestones within expected timeframes. It is important to keep in mind that each child is unique and that no two children will arrive at these milestones simultaneously. This book aims to guide parents and teachers in the timeous identification of developmental delays a child may display. The author is a practising occupational therapist who specialises in paediatrics.

August 2015

calendar

what’s on in august

You can also access the calendar online at

childmag.co.za

Your guide for what to do, where to go and who to see. Compiled by SIMONE JEFFERY

FUN FOR CHILDREN – p37

ONLY FOR PARENTS – p40

The South African Book Fair An exciting literary programme for all lovers of reading.

Immune boosters and children’s nutrition Learn how you can support your child’s immune system.

bump, baby & tot in tow – p42

how to help – p43

Bowen Babies workshop A course for new, sleep-deprived and overwhelmed moms and caregivers.

The Grace Factory A nonprofit organisation caring for underprivileged children and moms.

SPECIAL EVENTS – p35 International Marimba and Steelpan Festival Learn to play the steelpans, marimbas, boomwhackers and more.

August 2015

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PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM / KellyM International Photography

sat

SPECIAL EVENTS 1 saturday Art and embroidery workshop Celebrate women’s month by spending some mother-and-daughter time working on a beautiful embroidered artwork for your home. Booking essential. For 8 years and older. Time: 2pm–5pm. Venue: Expressions Centre, Norfolk Rd, Carlswald, Midrand. Cost: R360 per mother-anddaughter pair. Contact: 082 402 8169 or expressionsinfocus.co.za Artists under the Sun An open-air exhibition of fine art and sculpture. Children can meet at the caravan with their colouring books and crayons for an impromptu art competition, while parents appreciate the art. Also 2 August. Time: 9am–4pm. Venue: Zoo Lake, cnr Jan Smuts Ave and Westwold Way, Saxonwold. Cost: free. Contact: 083 470 1998 or artistsunderthesun.co.za ClevaMe Academy opening Find out more about this new preprimary school. Tours of the school take place every 20 minutes. Booking essential for catering purposes. For 3 months–5 year olds. Time: 10am–3pm. Venue: 279 Harley Rd, Blackheath. Cost: free. Contact: 079 899 2456, marlize@clevame. co.za or clevame.co.za International Marimba and Steelpan Festival As the bands compete for top honours you can take part in hands-on

magazine joburg

1 August – LinguaMites open day

workshops and learn to play the steelpans, marimbas or boomwhackers, or learn a few dance moves. Also 2 August. Time: 8am until late on Saturday, 8am–5pm Sunday. Venue: St Benedict’s College, Harcus Rd, Bedfordview. Cost: entrance fee: R30, children 6–12 years old R20, R30 per workshop, or R60 (includes entrance and workshops). Contact: 011 685 7300 or internationalmarimbafestival.org LinguaMites open day Families interested in raising a multilingual child can find out more about this preschool’s unique model and services, as well as the value of speaking Chinese and/or Zulu. For parents of children 1–8 years old. Time: 9am–11am. Venue: LinguaMites Multilingual Preschool, 333 York Ave, Ferndale. Cost: free. Contact: 072 561 3113, info@linguamites.co.za or linguamites.co.za

The Craft Beer, Food and Wine Fair A boutique craft fair that combines craft beer, wine, gourmet food and entertainment for the whole family in a beautiful outdoor environment. There is a secure children’s play area with strict access control where children can enjoy jumping castles, face painting, sand art and rides. Time: 10am–7pm. Venue: Helderfontein Estate, 1 Chattan Rd, Glenferness, Midrand. Cost: adults R150, children up to 16 years old R50. For more info: craftfair.co.za Holy Rosary School’s Birthday Bash The school is turning 75 and celebrating with a fun-filled carnival and performances by The Kiffness and Shaun Jacobs Band. Time: 10am–6pm. Venue: 113 Horwood

St, Edenvale. Cost: adults R50, children 18 years and under R100 (includes all day access to Kids’ Zone, games and rides). Contact: 011 457 0900 or deidre@ holyrosaryschool.co.za

2 sunday Shumbashaba – Music in The Fields Relax while listening to music by Josie Field, Jason Hartman, Chris Letcher, Steve Rusznyak and Quietly Concerned. Children can enjoy pony rides and face painting. All proceeds go towards Shumbashaba’s Horses Helping People programmes. Time: 12pm–4:30pm. Venue: Shillelagh Farm, plot 112, Mnandi Rd, Diepsloot Agricultural Holdings. Cost: adults and children 16 years and older R160,

Slipper Day Wear your slippers to work, school, the shops or wherever you choose and show your support for Reach for a Dream. By doing this you are helping to fulfil the dreams of children in hospitals and homes across South Africa. For each sticker purchased Joburg schools are entered into a lucky draw and stand the chance of winning the use of a car for a year, a visit by Protea cricket players, and a concert by Shortstraw and Gangs of Ballet. Stickers are available from Wimpy outlets nationwide. Cost: R10 per sticker. Contact: slipperday@reachforadream.org.za or reachforadream.org.za

7 fri

August 2015

calendar

Johnny Clegg live Pack a picnic basket and spend the afternoon in the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden with Johnny Clegg. Time: gates open 3pm, concert starts 5pm. Venue: end of Malcolm Rd, Poortview, Roodepoort. Cost: adults R190, children under 13 years old R80. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or computicket.com

30 sun

The Wedding Expo A host of bridal exhibitors all showcasing a wide variety of wares and services. Also 23 August. Time: 9am–6pm. Venue: The Dome, Northriding, Cost: R120, children 2–11 years R30. For more info: wedding-expo.co.za Andrews Academy open day Find out more about this independent school that will cater to learners from Grade R–7 in 2016. Time: 10am–2pm. Venue: 1 Vosloo St, cnr Republic Rd, Windsor Glen, Randburg. Cost: free. Contact: 011 431 0631 or andrewsacademy.co.za

23 sunday Old Mutual Music in the Gardens Pack a picnic basket and spend the afternoon in the Gardens with Freshlyground and Mathew Gold. Time: gates open 10am, concert 2pm–5pm. Venue: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, Roodepoort. Cost: online R50 per adult; at the gate R100 per adult, children under 12 years old free. For more info: dogreatthings.co.za

28 friday children under 16 years R60, children under 6 years free. Tickets are available through Webtickets: 086 111 0005 or webtickets.co.za Youth Orchestra Festival Five youth orchestras each present a short programme before joining together to perform a number of massed items under the baton of Dr Richard Cock. All ages. Time: 2:30pm–5pm. Venue: Linder Auditorium, Wits Education Campus, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown. Cost: R50. Contact: 011 484 1257 or info@orchestracompany.org.za

6 thursday Dainfern College open day See the school in action and meet the principals, staff and pupils. For parents of children from Grade 0–12. Time: 9am–10am. Venue: Broadacres Dr, Dainfern. Cost: free. Contact: 011 469 0635, info@dainferncollege.co.za or dainferncollege.co.za Decorex SA Africa’s largest decor, design and lifestyle exhibition with more than 700 brands, products and designers. Ends 10 August. Time: 1pm–6pm Thursday, 10am–6pm Friday–Monday (Thursday and Friday are trade-focused days). Venue: Gallagher Convention Centre, 19 Richard Dr, Midrand. Cost: adults R100, pensioners and students R85, children under 12 years old R15. For more info: thebereed.co.za/decorex

22 saturday Rise and Shine Festival Enjoy a light yoga session before a full day of music, food, nature and friends. The line-up includes Boo!, Bye Beneco, Go Barefoot, Float Parade, Mr Cat and the Jackal, New Academics, Sutherland and The Urban Village. Several food stalls, a variety of craft options, an Obikwa Wine Bar, a cordial bar and fresh coconuts are available. No 13–17 year olds. Time: gates open 8am, yoga 9am. Venue: Sandton Central Park, cnr Grayston Dr and Sandton Dr, entrance on 5th St, Sandton. Cost: R150–R250, children under 12 years old free, parking at Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton City R10. For more info: riseshinefest.co.za

August 2015

Franschhoek Food and Wine Festival Treat your senses to wine and food from Franschhoek accompanied by the sounds of the Johannesburg Symphonic Orchestra. Four of the winelands’ most popular restaurants and 15 of the region’s top wineries are in attendance along with fine chocolatiers, patisseries and cheese producers. Ends 30 August. Time: 6:30pm–10:30pm Friday, 1pm–5pm and 6:30pm–10:30pm Saturday, 12pm–5pm Sunday. Venue: Montecasino, cnr Witkoppen Rd and William Nicol Dr, Fourways. Cost: from R150. For more info: franschhoekfoodandwinefestival.co.za The Prince of Wales Cup An interprovincial polo tournament after which the South African team destined to play in the 2015 BMW International Polo Series is announced. The knockouts are on Friday, followed by the semifinals on Saturday and the final on Sunday. Ends 30 August. Time: 10am–5pm. Venue: Waterfall Polo Estate, cnr Maxwell Dr and Woodmead Rd, Midrand. Cost: varies. For more info: sapolo.co.za

29 saturday Albert’s Farm Spring Fair An annual community fair with market stalls, art and crafts, live entertainment and fun children’s activities. Time: 10am–3pm. Venue: 8th St, cnr 6th Rd West, Greymont. Cost: free entry. Contact: 083 583 5383 or nina@ outofthebox.org.za Tickey afternoon Enjoy a fun-filled family day at Bryanston Primary School. The industrious Grade 7s have organised

29 August – Tickey afternoon

magazine joburg

a mini fête filled with carnival games, inflatables and food stalls. Every year the Grade 7s undertake this fundraising activity and in the process learn cooperation, compromise, planning, how to run meetings, how to take notes/minutes, and basic economic skills. For 6–13 year olds. Time: 12pm–4pm. Venue: Hedding Field at Bryanston Primary School, 13 Mount St, Bryanston. Cost: free entry. Contact: troman@bryanstonprimary.co.za or bryanstonprimary.co.za

FUN FOR CHILDREN 12 and 13 August – Confident Kids workshop

art, culture and science In Memoriam: a South African Dystopia Loreal Vos, a master’s student in visual arts at the University of Johannesburg, presents a series of photographs, paintings and drawings around the central theme of a dystopian society, based on current events in South Africa. 1–9 August. Time: 10am–4pm Monday–Friday, 9am–3pm Saturday and public holidays, 10am–2pm Sunday. Venue: Upstairs @ Bamboo art gallery, 53 Rustenburg Rd, Melville. Cost: free entry. Contact: 083 284 6226, upstairs.bamboo@gmail.com or bambooonline.co.za

1–9 August – In Memoriam: a South African Dystopia

Peter Schütz: An Eye on the World A showcase of works by preeminent South African woodcarver Peter Schütz, which explores issues such as ritual, religion and the dignity of labour. 10 June–16 August. Time: 10am–4pm Wednesday–Sunday. Venue: Wits Art Museum (WAM), University Corner, cnr Bertha St (extension of Jan Smuts Ave) and Jorissen St, Braamfontein. Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 717 1365/58 or Facebook: WitsArtMuseum

classes, talks and workshops Ceramic painting and mosaic fun They give you all the tools you need, a little coaching and loads of encouragement. Booking essential. Children 6 years and under need to be accompanied by an adult. Time: 9:30am–4pm Monday–Friday, 9:30am–2pm Saturday, closed on public holidays. Venue: Glendower Place Shopping magazine joburg

Centre, 99 Linksfield Rd, Dowerglen, Edenvale. Cost: R20 studio time per person per hour, excluding all product. Contact: 011 453 2721 or potteryjunxion.co.za Chess for beginners Individual tutoring for children 5 years and older. Booking essential. Time: 3pm–4pm and 4pm–5pm every Wednesday. Venue: Kinderspiel, 39A Greenhill Rd, Emmarentia. Cost: R50 per lesson. Contact: 011 646 0870 or kinderspiel@telkomsa.net Confident Kids workshop This workshop helps children build an “I can” attitude. Children who feel good about themselves seem to have an easier time handling conflict, coping with life, making friends and socialising, and resisting negative pressures by making healthy choices. Booking essential. For 8–13 year olds. 12 and 13 August. Time: 9am–12pm. Venue: Psychmatters Family Centre, 9 Park St, Bedfordview. Cost: R1 300. Contact: 011 450 3576, info@psychmatters.co.za or psychmatters.co.za Divorce support group for teenagers Support for teenagers whose parents are going through a divorce. Booking essential. 4, 11, 18 and 25 August. Time: 6pm–8pm. Venue: The Family Life Centre, 1 Cardigan Rd, cnr Crescent St, Parkwood. Cost: R1 200 for all four sessions. Contact: 011 788 4784, training@familylife.co.za or familylife.co.za Introduction to modelling A fun course with demonstrations and practical training given by industry professionals. Booking essential. For 4–11 year olds. 8 August. Time: 12pm–4pm. Venue: Five6Seven8 Dance Studio, Fountainebleau Village, cnr Republic Rd and Rabie Rd, Fountainbleau. Cost: R850. Contact: 072 786 4383, info@modelacademy.co.za or modelacademy.co.za

family outings Chilli and Wine Festival There are over 60 wine exhibitors and traders throughout the centre as well as craft beer stands and live entertainment. 31 July– 2 August. Time: 9am–9pm Friday, 9am–7pm Saturday and 9am–5pm Sunday. Venue: The Glen Shopping Centre, cnr Orpen Rd and Letaba St, Oakdene. Cost: free. Contact: 011 435 9252, carla@theglenshopping.co.za or theglenshopping.co.za Garden World’s Spring Festival Nature’s Bounty is a garden design show featuring the award-winning 2015 KirstenboschSouth Africa exhibits from the RHS August 2015

calendar sessions and illustration workshops every hour, to interesting talks by authors and publishers. There is a dedicated children’s area, and a whole day devoted to learners, teachers and librarians. For 4 years and older. 31 July–2 August. Time: 9am–8pm Friday, 9am–6pm Saturday and Sunday. Venue: Turbine Hall, 65 Ntemi Piliso St, Newtown. Cost: R50, pensioners and students R30, events vary. For the full schedule: southafricanbookfair.com

holiday programmes

11 August–7 September – Expressions Centre holiday camp

Chelsea Flower Show in London. There are other designer gardens on display, garden revamps, schools’ gardens depicting gardens through the eyes of a child, and an educational water wise exhibit. 24 July–30 August. Time: 8am–5pm. Venue: Garden World, Beyers Naudé Dr, Muldersdrift. Cost: adults R30 for the first person, R20 per person thereafter, children under 12 years old free. Contact: 011 957 2545, 083 997 6142 or gardenworld.co.za The South African Book Fair There are several events for the young and old to participate in, from storytelling

August 2015

Coding camps Learn the basics of computer programming through ageappropriate coding apps. For learners in Grades 6–8. 20 and 21 August, and 25 and 26 August. Time: 8am–1pm. Venue: Core Group, 1 Sandton Dr, Sandton. Cost: R500 for the two-day camp. Contact: julie@ thinkahead.co.za Expressions Centre holiday camp A funfilled, full-day programme where children enjoy supervised games and activities in a country environment. Suitable for children 5 years and older (younger children welcome if they are accustomed to attending a full school day and structured activities). Booking essential. 11 August–7 September. Time: 8am–4:30pm Monday–Friday. Venue: Expressions Centre, Norfolk Rd, Carlswald, Midrand. Cost: R260. Contact: 082 402 8169, carla@expressionsinfocus.co.za or expressionsinfocus.co.za

Fastrack camps A day camp that keeps the focus on fun while providing an opportunity to explore the world of an astronaut, a palaeontologist or an international traveller. Booking essential. For 5–8 year olds. 10 August–7 September. Time: 7:15am–1pm Monday–Friday, aftercare until 5:30pm. Venue: Fastrackids, 98 4th St, Parkmore, Sandton. Cost: from R650 per week. Contact: 0861 FASTRACK (32787225), sandton@goftk.com or fastrackids.com/sandton Fun-a-Galore holiday programme Kitchen fun with cooking and baking activities for children 6–12 years old. 12 and 13 August. Time: 9am–4:30pm, or half-day 9am–1pm or 1pm–4:30pm. Venue: Miele Gallery, Peter Place, Bryanston. Cost: full day R375, half-day R275. Contact: 082 468 7720 or jean@ fun-a-galore.co.za

Fun and games at Yeesh! Take part in an active holiday programme that is filled with loads of supervised activities. The venue has a giant two-level play structure for 4–12 year olds and a mini version for children under 4. Suitable for 4–10 year olds for drop-offs; 1–4 year olds if visiting with a caregiver. 10 August–7 September. Time: 9am–5pm. Venue: Yeesh! Fun for Kids, Woodmead Commercial Park, Waterval Crescent, Woodmead. Cost: R160 per day, R75 for two hours. Contact: 011 656 9669, 083 923 2306 or yeesh.co.za Kidz fishing camp Over three days and two nights, children get close to nature and learn how to fish, tie knots, canoe and more. For 7–14 year olds. 11–13 August. Time: all day. Venue: Vaal River. Cost: R1 200. Contact: 083 610 2911 or kidzfishingcamp.co.za

10–14 August – Krafty Kidz holiday workshops

magazine joburg

Krafty Kidz holiday workshops Children can explore their creativity through a variety of mediums and various techniques, such as finger knitting, origami, paper quilling, and more. Booking essential. For 2–10 year olds. 10–14 August. Time: classes at 9:30am, 11am and 1:30pm. Venue: 380 Emerald Estate, Greenstone Dr, Greenstone Hill. Cost: from R60 per class. Contact: 083 301 9825 or kraftykidz.co.za Little Ashford holiday camp The holiday programme includes themed days with activities to keep children entertained. For 18 months–5 year olds. 11 August–4 September. Time: 7am–5:30pm. Venue: Little Ashford Preschools in Saxonwold, Bryanston, Morningside and Rosebank. Cost: LAP child R1 320 for four weeks; nonLAP child R2 000 for four weeks; LAP child R400 per week; non-LAP child R600 per week (includes meals and snacks). Contact: 011 568 1319 or littleashford.co.za Sugar Bay holiday camp Nonstop fun and extreme adventure with over 100 activities on offer, obstacle courses, fun challenges and evening programmes. For 7–17 year olds. Jurassic World Week: 9–16 August; Hunger Games Week: 16–23 August; Wipe-out Week: 23–30 August. Time: drop off 3pm–4pm on the first day, pick up 8am–9am on last day. Venue: Sugar Bay Holiday Resort, 21 Nkwazi Dr, Zinkwazi Beach, KwaZulu-Natal. Cost: R5 699. Contact: 032 485 3778, holidays@ sugarbay.co.za or sugarbay.co.za

magazine joburg

Winter Wonderland Hilltop Friends Preschool and Playschool is providing a fun holiday programme packed with a variety of age-appropriate crafts and activities. For 14 months–8 year olds. 11–28 August. Time: 6:30am–1pm, 6:30am–3:30pm or 6:30am–5:30pm. Venue: 30 Kornalyn St, Douglasdale. Cost: R90–R160 per day. Contact: 011 023 0101 or kelly@ hilltopfriends.co.za

markets Harties Arts and Crafts Market There is a large range of unique hand-crafted items. Time: 9am–3pm every Saturday and Sunday. Venue: Village Mall, Hartbeespoort. Cost: free. Contact: 071 343 5067 or hartiesarts@gmail.com Market at Chefs on Main A monthly pop-up market with craft and deli food stalls and lots of children’s activities. 30 August. Time: 11am–4pm. Venue: Chefs on Main, 146 Kyalami Main Rd (R55), Kyalami. Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 466 2635 or rachel.chefsonmain@ gmail.com The Blubird Wholefood Market Sample your way around this intimate food market and meet all the chefs and cooks who prepare the delicious delights. Time: 9am–2pm every Sunday. Venue: Blubird Shopping Centre, Athol Oaklands Rd, off Corlett Dr, Birnam. Cost: free. Contact: 083 311 4768, wholefoodmarket@gmail.com or wholefoodmarket.weebly.com

The Pop-up Market at Engedi A travelling market with an upmarket selection of art, crafts, food and drink. Time: 10am–4pm. Venue: Engedi, plot 22, Protea Ridge Rd/ Honingklip Rd, Kromdraai. Cost: free entry. Contact: 084 228 8800 or kerry@thepopupmarket.co.za

on stage and screen Beautiful Creatures A 20-minute show featuring some of Beautiful Creatures’ best-loved songs. 22 and 23 August. Time: 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Venue: Montecasino Outdoor Piazza stage, cnr Witkoppen Rd and William Nicol Dr, Fourways. Cost: free. For more info: beautifulcreatures.co.za Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr This Disney classic is performed by a cast of more than 50 children aged 10–18 years old from Drama Buzz. 7 and 8 August. Time: 10am and 7pm. Venue: Roodepoort Theatre, 100 Christiaan de Wet Dr, Florida Park, Roodepoort. Cost: R60. Contact: 083 738 0979, dramabuzzsa@gmail.com or roodepoorttheatre.com Lord of The Dance: Dangerous Games No children under 3 years old. 14 July–9 August. Time: 8pm Tuesday–Saturday, 3pm Saturday, 2pm and 6pm Sunday. Venue: The Teatro at Montecasino, cnr William Nicol Dr and Montecasino Boulevard, Fourways. Cost: R455–R625. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or computicket.com

Peter and the Wolf and other ballets The Johannesburg Youth Ballet presents a triple bill of family-friendly favourites. 12–16 August. Time: 7:30pm Wednesday– Friday, 11am, 3pm and 6:30pm Saturday, 11am and 3pm Sunday. Venue: University of Johannesburg Arts Centre, Kingsway Campus, cnr University and Kingsway Rd, Auckland Park. Cost: R80–R130. Book through Computicket: computicket.com Sister Act – The Musical A musical comedy based on the top-grossing 1992 movie starring Whoopi Goldberg. 10 July–15 August. Time: 8pm Tuesday–Saturday, 3pm Saturday, 2pm Sunday. Venue: Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Boulevard, Braamfontein. Cost: R200– R350. Book through the Joburg Theatre Box Office: 0861 670 670 or joburgtheatre.com

playtime and story time Kinder Theatre: Darin the Magician Darin will have you in stitches with his hilarious comedy for children and parents. Booking essential. For children 3 years and older. 10 and 29 August. Time: 10am. Venue: Kinderspiel, 39A Greenhill Rd, Emmarentia. Cost: R55. Contact: 011 646 0870 or kinderspiel@telkomsa.net

sport and physical activities Ace Tennis holiday clinic A fun-filled learning experience where friendly coaches introduce your child to the beautiful game of tennis and help them take their

August 2015

calendar

10–14 August – Ace Tennis holiday clinic

game to the next level. Booking essential as space is limited. For 2–14 year olds. 10–14 August. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Parkhurst Tennis Club, 12th St, cnr 5th Ave, Parkhurst. Cost: R200 per day, R900 for all five days. Contact: 083 271 3804 or annchapman@telkomsa.net ITA tennis clinic Tennis clinics for 3–16 year olds. 10–14, 24–28 August and 31 August–4 September. Time: 8:30am–1:30pm. Venue: Craighall Park Tennis Club, St Alban’s Rd, Craighall. Cost: R300–R990 for five days. Contact: 083 443 3391 or itatennis.co.za Lumo trail run series Dress in neon and lumo clothing when you walk or run the 4km and 8km trail. Dogs on leads are welcome. Time: 5pm every Friday. Venue: meet and register at Calco Café and Pizzeria, Rietvlei Zoo Farm, 101 Swartkoppies Rd, Alberton. Cost: free. Contact: 076 425 1346 or calvin.dias@hotmail.com Meditation for children and tweens 2 August. Time: 9–13 year olds 9am–10am, 3–8 year olds 10:30am–11:30am. Venue: Vajrapani Kadampa Buddhist Centre, The Colony Shopping Centre, 345 Jan Smuts Ave, Craighall. Cost: R20. Contact: 011 447 2746, info@meditation.org.za or meditation.org.za Nia 4 Kids workshop A sensory-based movement practice that draws from martial arts, dance arts and healing arts. For 4–12 year olds. 1 August. Time: 2:30pm–4:30pm. Venue: Paul St, Northworld, Randburg. Cost: R200 per workshop. Contact: 083 325 6076 or julie@magicblox.co.za Rugbytots classes Fun, energetic rugby class for 2–9 year old boys and girls.

August 2015

Time: 8:15am–10:15am every Saturday. Venue: Modderfontein. Cost: R75 per term. Contact: 083 375 5632, clinton@ rugbytots.co.za or rugbytots.co.za

only for parents classes, talks and workshops ADHD parenting course A fourweek parenting course run by a clinical psychologist to equip parents of ADHD children with skills and techniques to better manage their children and acquire an in-depth understanding of ADHD. Booking essential. Starts 11 or 14 August. Time: 7pm–9pm Tuesday, 10am–12pm Friday. Venue: Morningside, Sandton. Cost: R1 400; R350 per session. Contact: 083 267 3265 or lorian@drphillips.co.za Brain Gym Confluence Conference The theme is coming together and moving forward as one. For 18 years and older. 29 August. Time: 8am–4:15pm. Venue: Linden NG Kerk, 44 5th St, Linden. Cost: R500. Contact: 084 919 3205, moveahead2day@ gmail.com or braingymsa.co.za Courses with Domestic Bliss Have your domestic worker trained on an accredited childcare or housekeeping course to ensure your peace of mind when leaving your most precious possessions in your childminder’s care. Each course takes place over five weekly sessions. Courses start 28 July. Time: 8:30am–2pm. Venue: Domestic Bliss, 235 Jan Smuts Ave, Parktown North. Cost: R2 200 per course. Contact: 011 447 5517, 083 525 4992 or domesticbliss.co.za

magazine joburg

Imago Africa couples workshops Hedy and Yumi Schleifer are in South Africa presenting a series of couples workshops incorporating training that will help you develop deeply connected and meaningful relationships. 7–23

August. Time: varies. Venue: various Joburg venues. Cost: varies. Contact: 082 463 1467, info@imagoafrica.co.za

fri

or imagoafrica-hedyyumi.co.za

Immune boosters and children’s nutrition Hear how you can support your child’s immune system through the winter months and supplement their nutrition all year round. 17 August. Time: 7am–9am. Venue: LinguaMites Multilingual Preschool, 333 York Ave, Ferndale. Cost: free. Contact: 072 561 3113, info@linguamites.co.za or linguamites.co.za Left-hand learning workshop Step into the shoes of a lefty, realise their struggles and find solutions to daily problems like cutting, grip and letter formation. Booking essential. 1 August. Time: 9am–11:30am. Venue: Constantia Kloof. Cost: R250. Contact: 083 417 3316, tracy@lefthandlearning.co.za or lefthandlearning.co.za Organic vegetable gardening This beginner course will help you to plan your organic vegetable garden. You’ll learn about companion plants, the importance of good soil, how to germinate seeds and transplant seedlings, and more. Booking essential. 16 and 30 August. Time: 11am–4:30pm. Venue: Inner City Farm, Sandown. Cost: R580, includes tea/ coffee and a light lunch. Contact: 082 365 0050, gilda@soughtafterseedlings.co.za or soughtafterseedlings.co.za Parenting the Love and Logic Way Discover the fun way to avoid power struggles and arguments with your children, to stay calm when your children really upset you, and to set enforceable limits rather than use powerless threats. The course takes place once a week for six weeks. Booking essential. 29 July– 2 September. Time: 9am–11:30am in Honeydew or 7pm–9pm in Boskruin every Wednesday. Venue: Honeydew

magazine joburg

and Boskruin. Cost: R550. Contact: 082 532 9820, info@raisingtomorrow.com or raisingtomorrow.com Sonic meditation This form of meditation is enriched with live sound and music performances created with Himalayan and quartz crystal singing bowls, vocal toning and over toning, hand-held drums, tingsha bells, tuned chimes, harmony balls, rain sticks and more. Booking essential. 2 August. Time: 9:30am–11:30am. Venue: South African Centre for Sound Therapy, Meerhof, Hartebeespoort Dam. Cost: R150. Contact: 071 682 2548 or soundtherapy.co.za Teas for health and vitality Spend the morning tasting herbal teas and eats that are good for one’s overall health. Booking essential. 22 August. Time: 9:30am for 10am. Venue: Garden World, Beyers Naudé Dr, Muldersdrift. Cost: R130, includes refreshments. Contact: 011 957 2545, 083 997 6142 or gardenworld.co.za

on stage and screen Duo Mozartiano in Concert This violin duo from Austria is comprised of Daniel Auner and Barbara Galante. Booking essential. 30 August. Time: 4pm–5:30pm. Venue: Glenshiel Manor, 19 Woolston Ave, Westcliff. Cost: R150. Contact: 083 414 0041 Mass Hysteria Comedy Show – The Long Bunfight to Freedom Nando’s presents a lineup of the best standup comedians in the country. 19–23 August. Time: 8pm Wednesday–Saturday, 3pm Saturday, 6pm Sunday. Venue: The Teatro at Montecasino, Fourways. Cost: R150– R300. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

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calendar

life-threatening blood disorders with the chance of life, irrespective of their race and financial circumstances. Bookings essential. Ladies 16 years and older. 16 August. Time: 9am. Venue: The Fairway Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort, Setperk Rd, Randburg. Cost: R280. Contact: 011 781 4200, takalani@sunflowerfund.org.za or sunflowerfund.org.za

support groups

29 August – Pinotage on Tap Festival

out and about Congress of Business and Economics Women’s Month high tea Talks by successful women who will discuss their incredible journeys and how they balance their lives. 29 August. Time: 2pm–5:30pm. Venue: The Longroom at the Wanderer’s Stadium, Illovo. Cost: R300; pre-bookings only. Contact: 011 837 5728 or yasmin@ cbeconomics.co.za or cbeonline.co.za Pinotage on Tap Festival Enjoy pinotage on tap, paired with local dishes, while you enjoy the live bands and games. Space is limited. 29 August. Time: 12:30pm. Venue: Val Bonne Country Estate, Modderfontein. Cost: R410. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or computicket.com

August 2015

The Consol Craft Revolution Sample and experience the multitude of beers produced by smaller microbreweries, and pair the beer with gourmet street food. 8 August. Time: 11am–5pm. Venue: Montecasino, cnr Witkoppen Rd and William Nicol Dr, Fourways. Cost: online R150, at the gate R180, children 4–15 years old R50. Tickets are available through iTickets: 0861 000 291 or itickets.co.za or thecraftrevolution.co.za The Sunflower Fund ladies breakfast Join The Sunflower Fund in celebrating women with a breakfast, inspirational talk and a spot of pampering. The Sunflower Fund provides South Africans diagnosed with leukaemia and other

Dyspraxia South Africa A support group for parents and/or caregivers who have, or take care of, children and young adults dealing with dyspraxia. Contact: info@dyspraxiasouthafrica.co.za or dyspraxiasouthafrica.co.za Overeaters Anonymous (OA) A fellowship of people who share a solution to the problem of compulsive overeating. Members share their experiences, strength and hope in recovery. Dates and times vary per venue. Cost: free. Contact: 011 640 2901 or oa.org.za

winds and constipation and calms the nervous system, leading to a more restful sleep. Booking essential. For babies from 4 weeks–6 months old. 5, 10, 12 and 20 August. Time: 9:30am–2pm. Venue: The Bub Hub and Company, shop GC 15 Broadacres Lifestyle Centre, cnr Cedar Rd and Valley Rd, Broadacres. Cost: R650 for four weeks. Contact: info@thebubhub. co.za or thebubhub.co.za Baby yoga Practices develop a shared sense of fun, while improving balance and coordination. For babies from 3 weeks– 8 months old. Time: 10:30am–11:15am every Monday and Tuesday. Venue: Mondays: The Bub Hub, Broadacres Lifestyle Centre (next to Mugg n Bean), Cedar Rd, Broadacres; Tuesdays: Genesis Birthing Clinic, cnr Jan Smuts Ave and Northwold Dr,

bump, baby & Tot in tow

classes, talks and workshops Baby massage course Massage has many benefits for your baby, including strengthening and regulating their digestive, respiratory and circulatory systems. It relieves symptoms of colic,

5, 10, 12 and 20 August – Baby massage course

magazine joburg

Time: 10am–11:30am every Tuesday. Venue: The Fourways Marriage and Family Therapy Centre, 37 Penguin Dr, Fourways. Cost: R100 per week, includes tea and coffee. Contact: 072 690 3836, kirsten@ kirstenmiller.net or kirstenmiller.net

how to help Young Yogi’s toddler yoga

Saxonwold. Cost: R600 per month. Contact: 076 081 7615, info@yogamama.co.za or yogamama.co.za Bowen Babies workshop This course will empower you to deal with baby problems like colic, reflux and sleeping disruptions as well as unsettled babies in a safe, gentle and noninvasive way. It is specifically designed for new, sleep-deprived and completely overwhelmed moms as well as childcare providers. Booking essential. For babies from newborn to 6 months old. 8 August. Time: 10am. Venue: The Bub Hub and Company, shop GC 15 Broadacres Lifestyle Centre, Broadacres. Cost: R800. Contact: info@thebubhub.co.za or thebubhub.co.za

playtime and story time Young Yogi’s toddler yoga Fun, educational and mindful classes. Yoga maintains wellness through the harmony of body, mind and spirit, encouraging strong bodies, focused minds and free spirits.

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Booking essential. For 2–5 year olds. Time: 2:30pm–3:30pm every Tuesday. Venue: The Bub Hub and Company, shop GC 15 Broadacres Lifestyle Centre, Broadacres. Cost: R380 per month. Contact: info@ thebubhub.co.za or thebubhub.co.za

support groups Mom Squad Mothers of newborns and babies up to 18 months old can chat about the challenges and rewards of motherhood over a cup of tea. Run by the Trinity Methodist Church. Time: 9:15am–11am every Thursday. Venue: Linden. Cost: R10 per session towards refreshments. Contact: 082 334 4029 or vandermerwekj@gmail.com Postnatal depression support group A weekly get-together for parents that are struggling with the transition to parenthood. Areas addressed include depression, anxiety, relationships/marriage and coping skills. Preregistration is required.

Takkie donations Forest Town School is collecting takkies for children with cerebral palsy, who are receiving treatment in botox clinics for their upper and lower limbs. They need takkies that are children’s size three through to adult size six. Venue: Forest Town School, cnr New Forest Rd and Rannoch Rd, Forest Town. Contact: 011 791 2721, 082 973 3711 or ftstrust@global.co.za The Grace Factory A nonprofit organisation that collects baby items for children’s homes and provides maternity packs for moms in government hospitals. For a collection point, contact: 082 925 5557, info@thegracefactory.co.za or thegracefactory.co.za

Trojan’s Neurological Trust The organisation raises funds so that neurologically-injured patients can receive comprehensive rehabilitation, which will give them the opportunity to regain much of their independence. They welcome monetary donations. Contact: 011 807 0491, justbiokinetics@gmail.com or justbiokinetics.com

don’t miss out! For a free listing, email your event to joburg@childmag.co.za or fax it to 011 234 4971. Information must be received by 31 July for the September issue, and must include all relevant details. No guarantee can be given that it will be published. To post an event online, childmag.co.za

August 2015

itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s party time For more help planning your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s party visit

childmag.co.za/resources/birthday-parties

August 2015

magazine joburg

August 2015

finishing touch

morning mayhem It’s no mean feat to get herself and her children ready for the day, so ANÉL LEWIS is happy just to

hy is it that no amount of planning the night before ever really prepares you for the mayhem that comes in the morning? The day starts when Conor rams a dinosaur or some or other rescue vehicle up my nose. “Tea,” he whispers. “I need tea.” I step on the cat as we make our treacherous descent down the stairs. There is only one plastic receptacle in the entire kitchen that will do for Conor’s morning cuppa. And of course, on Monday mornings said cup is usually MIA. Conor starts to howl. I pick him up and we head to the playroom. I step on something wet and cold. It’s a half-masticated piece of boerewors from Sunday’s braai. But there’s no time to wipe it off because Conor is in hysterics about his cup and his tea. Down onto all fours I go to search under the couch. I find a soggy dish towel wrapped around a fluffy unicorn, four Lego pieces and a hairy lollipop. No cup. I decide to cut my losses and return

to the kitchen. As we move down the passage, something ricochets off my foot. The cup! Conor sits on the counter while I make his tea so that he can make sure I add the chocolate milkshake powder. I don’t ask questions at this time of the morning. If he wants chocolate tea, so be it. I hear footsteps and Erin peeps around the corner. She wants to draw. “Now? Okay, okay, let’s get the crayons.” I reckon I can dress her while she’s drawing. I bring their clothes. “No, I don’t want that!” shouts Conor. Erin’s not interested in the top I have for her either. “It’s too short and it doesn’t match.” Great, all I need now is fashion advice from my four year old. I dash upstairs and get myself ready. No time for hair and make-up. Finally, we are in the car, but then Erin wails: “Mom, something smells.” We’re trying to pottytrain Conor and things are still more miss than hit. I grab Conor and head back upstairs to change his pants. Back in the

Erin, Anél and Conor

car, as we pull out of the garage, Erin whispers: “Mom, I need to take something starting with ‘b’ to school.” You’ve got to be kidding me. Instead of shouting the first expletive I can think of starting with ‘b’, I dash inside and grab a banana. We’re more than 15 minutes late. I screech into the traffic queue, my wet hair frizzing in the warmth of the car. But then from the backseat I hear, “Hot dog, jumping frog... elbow kirky”. The two of them are singing their hearts out, blissfully unaware of the pandemonium it took just to get them out of the door.

To passing motorists, we probably look like the Von Trapp family going on a summer holiday – despite the fact that Conor is still in his pyjama top and Erin’s hair resembles something from the J&B Met. But it’s okay. Any day that starts with my children singing a song – and a cup of chocolate tea – is bound to be a good one. Anél Lewis has invested in a massive white board so she can plan ahead for the week. She’s also prepacked containers with teabags and chocolate milk powder to save time in the mornings.

family marketplace

August 2015

magazine joburg

PHOTOGRAPH: Susie Leblond Photography

make it out the front door.