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Published by: Hermanus Times: Novus Media Community News Birkenhead Building, 34 Main Road, Hermanus Tel: 028 312 3717 Publisher: Tasmin Cupido Editor: Mariëtte Strydom Advertising Manager: Ilse Fourie Advertising: Gail Cupido-Lukas, Olivia Dickson, Yolande Pistilli © All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part prohibited without prior written permission of the publishers. The views expressed in this booklet aren't necessarily those of the publisher.

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BABY STEPS BIG JOURNEY

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Your child’s health passport F

rom the moment your baby takes a first breath a story of growth begins, and behind every healthy child is a parent who keeps track. Your child's health passport is more than a clinic card tucked into a nappy bag. It is a living record of every immunisation, every milestone, every check-up, and every question you have asked a nurse or doctor. It follows your child from birth through the teenage years, and it becomes one of the most valuable documents in your home. Why does it matter so much? Because memory is unreliable, but written records are not. When a new doctor asks when your child last had an eye test, when a booster was administered, or whether that allergic reaction was noted at the clinic,

a complete health passport gives you the answer instantly. In emergencies it can save precious minutes. South Africa's Road to Health booklet, issued at birth, is the starting point. It tracks weight, height, immunisations and developmental milestones through the first years of life. But as children grow the tracking often stops, not because it is no longer important but because life gets busy. This guidebook encourages you to keep that record going. Every dental visit, every eye test, every hearing check, every therapy session, every sports medical — write it down. Note the date, the provider and anything unusual. Keep immunisation records up to date, especially before school registration and travel. File referral letters and allergy alerts in one place.

A health passport also helps both parents stay informed. When mum takes the baby to the clinic and dad takes the toddler to the dentist, both need access to the same information. Grandparents and caregivers benefit too. A shared record means no one is left guessing. You do not need anything fancy. A simple folder with divider tabs — immunisations, dental, vision, developmental notes — works perfectly. What truly matters is consistency, not perfection. As your child moves from baby steps to big journeys across the Overberg their health story grows with them. Keep it written, keep it current and keep it close. One day when your teenager heads off on their own you will hand over more than advice. You will hand a complete record of care over, built one entry at a time.

BABY STEPS BIG JOURNEY I am a tiny seed. Give me water to feed. Put me in protective soil. Show me affection and attention. Security. I am bread you knead. Mold me in your hands. Let me rise on my own And mold me some more. Guiding. I am caged and want to be freed.

Do not clip my wings. Let me fly a little And I'll come home. Coaching. I am the blood you bleed, Your very life and joy Poured out of your flesh Onto the earth. Enriching. I am a star gloried Lighting the sky Shining your refection On the ocean of life.

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Rising. I am the seed become bread. I am a freed bird who drew blood To rise to be the star you dreamed. I am a baby. I am a child. I am a teen. I am an adult. I am your future. - Bob Richley

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BABY STEPS BIG JOURNEY

Baby’s first beach day: do’s and don’ts T

here is nothing quite like watching your baby discover the beach for the first time. The crunch of sand between tiny toes, the wide-eyed wonder at crashing waves, the squeal when cold water meets warm skin – it is a memory you will treasure forever. But a baby's first seaside outing needs a little more planning than your average trip. Here is how to get it right. DO choose the right time. Early-morning or late-afternoon sun is gentler on delicate skin. Aim to arrive before 10:00 or after 16:00, for under two hours. DO dress your baby. A long-sleeved rash vest with built-in UV protection, a wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap, and baby-safe sunscreen on every exposed patch gives the best defence. Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after any dip. DO bring shade. A pop-up beach tent or sturdy umbrella with fitted ground sheet gives baby a cool, sheltered nap spot, to feed or shade. DO pack twice as much as you think you need.

Extra nappies, a change of clothes, snacks, milk, drinking water, a soft towel and a wet bag for sandy swimwear. DO stay within arm's reach at all times. Even shallow water and a gentle shore break can knock a little one off balance. A baby should never be left unattended near the water's edge. DON'T forget hydration. Babies dehydrate quickly in heat and wind. Offer milk or water frequently, even if they don’t seem thirsty. DON'T let baby eat sand or shells. Everything goes into the mouth at this age. Keep an eye and gently redirect curious fingers. DON'T stay if your baby becomes fussy, flushed or lethargic. These are early signs of overheating. Retreat to shade, offer fluids and head home. DON'T skip the post-beach rinse. A warm bath washes salt, sand and sunscreen off, preventing irritation and a restless night. Preparation and watchfulness make a first beach day safe, happy and unforgettable.

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The first 100 days’ checklist F

orget the perfect nursery, here’s how to cope with the first 100 days with a newborn; three things: keeping them calm, fed and well. The “5 S’s” American paediatrician Dr Harvey Karp developed five simple techniques that recreate the womb’s calming sensations and switch on a baby’s natural calming reflex: Swaddle: Snug wrapping (arms in, hips loose) reduces startling and boosts sleep. Side or stomach position: Hold your baby on their side or tummy while soothing. Always place them on their back to sleep. Shush: Make a steady “shhhh” sound or use white noise, as loud as your baby’s cry. Swing: Jiggle your baby in small, fast movements while supporting the head and neck. Never shake. Suck: Offer a pacifier, breast or clean finger for calming sucking. Wet nappies Count what comes out: Wet and dirty nappies are the simplest way to confirm your

What actually matters

baby is feeding well. Track the daily count. Dark or strong-smelling wee signals possible dehydration; contact your clinic. Temperature Know the Red Line: A normal newborn temperature sits around 36,4 °C, though slight variation is normal. The golden rule: 38 °C or higher is a fever, and in a baby under three months, it requires immediate medical attention; do not give fever medication before being seen. Use a digital thermometer under the armpit for a quick check; your nurse or doctor can confirm with a rectal reading. The bottom line Swaddle and shush. Count the nappies. Watch the temperature. Master these three and you’ve covered what truly matters. Bath time Bath time is about more than getting clean, and it’s a chance to bond, wind down and build a calming bedtime routine. • How often? Two to three baths a week

is plenty for newborns, or else their skin becomes dry. Until the umbilical cord stump falls off stick to sponge baths. • Perfect the temperature. Aim for bath water around 37-38 °C. Test it with your elbow or wrist; it should feel lukewarm, never

hot. Set your geyser below 49 °C to prevent accidental scalds. Fill with cold water first, then add hot and mix well. • Gather towel, clean nappy and clothes so you never have to step away. A wet baby gets cold fast, so keep the room warm and wrap them in a towel the moment you lift them out. Wash their hair last so their head doesn’t get cold mid-bath. Golden rule.

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Tande hoef nie ’n

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tandpyn te wees nie A

s jy jou baba se eerste tandjie raaksien, is dit ’n mylpaal, maar tog ook ’n uitdaging. Teen die tyd dat jou baba sy of haar eerste tandjie kry, lê daar baie slapelose nagte voor. Maar daar is ook goeie nuus: Tandekry is tydelik en daar is veilige en doeltreffende maniere om verligting te bied. Babas begin gewoonlik tande tussen vier tot ses maande kry en daar is sekere tekens wat jou sal voorberei op die tandekry-proses. Van die tekens is gewoonlik as die baba kwyl, as hy aan alles wil byt, rooi wange, ’n ligte koors en as hy huilerig is.

Volgens ’n pediater is nie alle simptome tandverwant nie en as jy twyfel neem jou baba eerder na die kliniek of dokter. Begin met eenvoudige middele voordat jy chemiese produkte gebruik. • ’n Skoon, koue waslappie om aan te kou, bied natuurlike verligting vir seer tandvleis. • Tandkry-ringetjies wat in die yskas verkoel is, werk ook goed - plaas dit nooit in die vrieskas nie, want te koud kan die tandvleis beskadig. • Vryf die tandvleis saggies met ’n skoon vinger of ’n sagte silikoon-borseltjie vir ’n paar minute

op ’n slag. • Massering bied drukverligting wat baie babas kalmeer. Wat om te vermy: • Goedkoop tandkry-gelprodukte of benzokaïen-salf, veral vir kinders jonger as twee jaar.

• Natuurlike kruie-gebaseerde produkte soos bytringe word ook nie aanbeveel nie, want hul

veiligheid en dosis is nie gereguleer nie. Tandekry kan ‘n rol op jou kind se eetlus speel en ouers moet daarna oplet. Hou aan borsvoed of formule-melk gebruik volgens die normale skedule. As jou baba al sagte kos eet, bied koeler en sagte opsies

aan soos jogurt, appelmoes of gesnipperde piesangs. Die tandekry-proses gaan ook verby en volgens ’n pediater is ekstra aandag aan jou kind tydens die proses regtig baie belangrik. “Tandekry sal verbygaan en agter elke nuwe tandjie wag daar ’n blink glimlag,” sê hy.

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Babies love books with real faces H

and your baby a board book filled with photographs of real baby faces, and watch. Eyes lock, fingers reach, lips part in a gummy grin. Now add a tiny mirror panel to the page, and you have a captivated audience.

Why the fascination? According to a psychologist it comes down to biology. “From birth, babies are hardwired to seek faces out,” she said. “Newborns can imitate facial expressions and track a gaze before they can even grasp a rattle. Real faces – actual human features, not cartoons or animals – light the social-cognitive parts of a baby’s developing brain up.” Studies show infants just days old prefer face-like patterns over scrambled ones. “Board books with photographs of real

babies are powerful because they feed this instinct,” the psychologist said. “Your baby sees a peer, studies the eyes and mouth, and begins learning the building blocks of social interaction: attention, recognition and emotional response. “Reflective surfaces add another layer. When a baby catches their own reflection, they are discovering self-awareness in its earliest, rawest form. They wave, the mirror waves back, and a simple loop begins. It is not vanity; it is science.” Choose board books with clear, high-contrast photographs of real faces and sturdy mylar mirrors. Read together, point to the eyes and nose, and let your baby touch the reflective pages. You are not just sharing a story; you are building social skills, self-awareness and a lifelong love of books.

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Is your child ready for big school? A

s January approaches parents across the Overberg face one of early childhood’s biggest questions: is my child ready for Grade 1? It is a question that causes more anxiety than it should. According to experts school readiness is less about academic perfection and more about the whole child – their emotional confidence, social skills, independence and curiosity about the world. By law children in South Africa must turn 6 by 30 June of their Grade 1 year. But age alone is not the full story. Being old enough is simply not the same as being ready. Development, not just a birthday, decides when a child should start. So what should parents look for? Language comes first. Can your child speak in full sentenc-

es, follow a two- or three-step instruction, and hold a simple conversation? Do they enjoy being read to and retell familiar stories? Early literacy follows naturally, recognising their own name, understanding that we read from left to right, and picking out rhyming sounds. Numeracy matters too: Can your

child count to at least 10, recognise numerals, sort objects by colour or shape, and understand “more” and “less”? Everyday moments; counting stairs, sharing sweets, comparing sizes; turn ordinary play into meaningful maths. Social and emotional readiness is equally important: Can your child separate from you without

lasting distress, take turns, share, and play with others? Can they express feelings in words rather than only through tears or frustration? These skills make the classroom manageable. Fine and gross motor skills round out the picture: Look for comfortable pencil grip, drawing a recognisable person, cutting along

a line, running, jumping, balancing, and catching a ball. Before assuming any gaps reflect readiness itself, rule out physical issues. Hearing or vision problems can make a child appear inattentive or behind. A quick GP visit can clear this up. The ideal window for a formal assessment is midway through Grade R, around June to August. This leaves time to strengthen any shaky areas before registration deadlines. Sometimes an extra year of Grade R is the kindest gift you can give a child. Above all, experts agree: do not chase perfection. Children need support, connection, opportunities to play, and adults who believe in their potential. Sometimes the best preparation for school is allowing children to enjoy being children first.

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Mess-free finger painting for toddlers E

very toddler is a natural-born artist. Hand a 2-year-old a crayon, and they discover they can make a mark on the world. The challenge? Keeping creativity alive without turning your kitchen into a disaster zone. Mess-free finger painting The secret is a ziplock bag. Squeeze two or three blobs of washable paint onto thick paper, slide it inside a clear ziplock bag, and seal tightly. Tape the bag flat to a table or tray. Your toddler can press, swirl, and smear the colours, all the sensory joy of finger painting without a drop escaping. Basic stencils

Once your little one is comfortable with colour play, introduce simple stencils. Choose large, chunky shapes – stars, hearts, animals – and show them how to dab paint inside the outline. Foam sponges work better than brushes for tiny hands still learning grip and control. Why it matters These early art activities do more than keep a toddler busy. They develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, colour recognition and self-expression. Most importantly, they build confidence. Keep sessions short, praise the process over the finished product, and let your budding artist explore freely.

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‘Brandstof’ vir jou kind ’n

Gesonde kosblik is veel meer as net ’n maaltyd tussen klasse - dit is die brandstof wat jou kind se liggaam en brein deur die skooldag dra. Wat kinders eet, het ’n direkte impak op hul konsentrasie, energievlakke, en vermoë om te leer. Voedsel ryk aan voedingstowwe soos volgraanprodukte, vars vrugte, groente, en proteïene verskaf stewige en volhoubare energiebronne wat bloedsuiker stabiel hou, in teenstelling met hoogs verwerkte versnaperinge wat vinnige pieke en dale veroorsaak. Afrikaans.com gee hierdie belangrike wenke: Probeer om die belangrikste voedselgroepe in te sluit.

Suiwelprodukte soos melk, kaas, jogurt is ook belangrik. Alle vleis, vis, seekosse, eiers, peulgroente en neute is ook belangrik en moenie vrugte en groente vergeet nie. Hoekom die verskillende voedselgroepe? Kinders moet groei en het energie nodig om hulle heeldag aan die gang te hou en hulle breine en spiere optimaal te laat funksioneer. Al die voedselgroepe is dus belangrik as deel van ’n gesonde en gebalanseerde dieet. Ons maak staat op ’n verskeidenheid van voedselsoorte om die verskillende voedingstowwe te kan inneem – al die elemente wat nodig is om ons gesond te hou en ons immuniteit, hartgesondheid, geestesgesondheid en fisieke ontwikkeling op verskillende stadiums van ons lewens in stand te hou. Dit is ook belangrik vir die noodsaaklike prosesse wat voortdurend in die liggaam plaasvind. Makro- en mikrovoeding stowwe werk in saam en is dus dikwels afhanklik van mekaar om hulle funksie behoorlik te verrig. Hoe lyk ’n tipiese gebalanseerde kosblik? Begin by ’n proteïenbron. Dit is ons boublokke en is noodsaaklik vir

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die beheer van bloedsuikervlakke vir volgehoue energievlakke.

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Raising a reader... S

ome children devour books, while others see reading as a chore. If your primary schooler falls into the second group, do not despair; a love of reading is nurtured, not born.

Here are practical ways to turn a reluctant page-turner into an eager one. • Let them choose. The fastest way to kill a love of reading is to dictate what children

should read. Comic books, graphic novels, magazines, fact books - it all counts. When a child picks their own material, they feel ownership. • Read together, even if they can read alone. Sharing a chapter at bedtime keeps reading social and cosy. Take turns reading aloud. It builds fluency, confidence, and a shared world of favourite characters. • Be a reading role model. Children copy what they see. If they see you curled up with a book, reading becomes a normal, desirable part of life. • Make books visible. Keep books in the living room, the car, and beside the bed. The easier they are to reach, the more likely they are to be picked up. • Talk about what they read. Ask open questions, "What was the funniest part?" or "What would you have done?" These conversations deepen comprehension and show that their reading matters to you. • Reward with books, not screens. Offer a trip to the library or a new book as a treat. Small habits, big results. Plant the seed early and watch a lifelong reader grow. HMT281026-HLGC281026

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Long-distance travel with a toddler L

ong-distance travel with a baby or toddler can feel daunting, but the right preparation goes a surprisingly long way.

• Pack smart. Use a nappy bag with labelled compartments, for snacks, spare clothes, wipes and nappies. Keep a small-essentials pouch within arm's reach. • Time your departure. Travel during your child's natural sleep window. A well-timed nap can cover hours of driving or flying with minimal fuss. • Snacks are your friend. Offer dry, lowmess options such as rice cakes, cheese strips and fruit. Avoid sugary treats that cause energy spikes and crashes. • Entertainment matters. Rotate a few small toys, sticker books or board books every 30 minutes to keep things fresh. Novelty keeps little minds engaged far longer than volume.

• Dress for comfort. Layered clothing lets you adjust to changing temperatures in cars, planes, and airports. Slip-on shoes make security checks easier. • Plan for the unexpected. Pack extra nappies, one full spare outfit and a wet bag. Delays happen; being ready keeps everyone's stress low. Above all, lower your expectations slightly. Travel with little ones is rarely perfect, but the memories you are making are absolutely worth it. HMT281026-HLGC281026

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BABY STEPS BIG JOURNEY

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Pets and personalities: How family animals shape early immunity and empathy

here is something magical about the bond between a child and a family pet. That wagging tail, the purr on a sleepy lap, the gentle nuzzle, animals offer companionship that words cannot match. But the benefits go beyond company. Research shows that family animals play a remarkable role in shaping two crucial aspects of early development: immunity and empathy. A stronger immune system For years parents believed that keeping babies away from pets was the safest route. The science now tells a different story. Studies show infants exposed to dogs and cats during their first year are less likely to develop allergies and asthma later on. Why? Pets bring the outdoors in. They

carry traces of soil, pollen and microbes on their paws and fur, introducing a baby's immune system to a wide range of harmless environmental stimuli. This early, low-level exposure trains the immune response to distinguish between real threats and harmless particles, reducing the likelihood of overreacting to everyday allergens. Families with dogs benefit from an extra advantage. Dogs that spend time both indoors and outdoors bring in the greatest diversity of microbes, giving a baby's gut and immune system a richer training ground. The result is fewer colds, fewer ear infections and stronger overall resilience. Growing hearts and minds Beyond the body, pets shape character. Toddlers who interact with animals learn empathy, the ability to understand and

share the feelings of another being, earlier and more deeply than those who do not. A pet cannot tell a child when it is hungry, scared or sore. The child must learn to read body language, notice subtle changes in behaviour and respond with gentleness. This is empathy in its purest, most practical form. Pets also teach responsibility, routine and patience. Even a toddler can help fill a water

bowl or offer a treat. These small acts build confidence and a sense of belonging within the family unit. Children who grow up with pets often show higher self-esteem, better social skills, and lower anxiety levels. A lifelong gift A family animal is a quiet, steady investment in a child's health and heart. A loyal dog, gentle cat or chatterbox budgie gives a child something invaluable: a stronger body, kinder spirit and a lifelong friend.

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The first sleepover R

eadiness for a first sleepover depends far more on emotional maturity. Some children feel ready at 5 or 6, while others need more time. Is your child ready? Before agreeing check a few signs. Has your child managed time away from you without becoming distressed, perhaps a night with grandparents? Can they handle basic bedtime tasks such as brushing teeth and putting on pyjamas alone? Do they sleep through the night without nightmares or calling out? Can they ask another adult for help? Most importantly, are they genuinely excited or at least willing to try, and not being pushed? If “not quite”, there’s no shame in starting smaller. A “late-over”, dinner and games, then home before bedtime, is a brilliant stepping stone. So is hosting at your own where your child feels safe. Have the conversation with the host parent This is the step many parents skip, and it

matters most. Ask directly, Who will be home? Which adults will supervise, and who else will be there, older siblings, visitors, other children? Where will they sleep? What are the sleeping arrangements? What about screens? What devices, games, movies and internet access will be allowed? Are there hazards? Are guns, alcohol, medications, and cleaning products locked away? Is there a pool or water hazard and, if so, who supervises swimming? What about allergies and medical needs? Can the host manage food restrictions, asthma, or medication? Prepare your child Talk through scenarios calmly, not to frighten but to empower. Remind them their body belongs to them and they can say “no” to anything that feels wrong. Agree on a code word they can use if they want to come home without explaining why in front of friends. Tell them exactly which adult to find if they wake up scared,

and where the phone is. The golden promise Promise you will collect them anytime, even at 02:00, with no questions asked. Pack a favourite blanket or stuffed toy. Plan one brief bedtime check-in call. Let them spread their wings, knowing home is only a phone call away.

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Regretting missing signs S

uicide is one of the leading causes of death among young people in South Africa.

According to the South African government almost one in 10 teen deaths is from suicide. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) reports that 9,5% of all unnatural teen deaths are attributable to suicide. Perhaps most alarming: nearly one in five South African school learners has considered or attempted suicide, according to national Youth Risk Behaviour Surveys. Behind every statistic is a child and behind every child is a parent who may not have seen the signs coming. Knowing what to watch for can make the difference between tragedy and intervention. The warning signs • Talk about death or dying: If your

teen says such things as "I wish I were dead," "nothing matters," or "I won't be around much longer," take it seriously. Talking about suicide does not cause suicide; it opens a door to help. Withdrawal from life. A teen who suddenly pulls away from friends, sport or family may be struggling. Increasing isolation and loss of interest in activities are all red flags. • Mood and personality changes. Persistent sadness, irritability, anger, agitation or an unexpected calm after a period of distress all ALMOST ONE IN TEN warrant attention. TEEN DEATHS IS DUE A sudden peaceful TO SUICIDE. mood can sometimes mean a decision has been personal appearance and hygiene. made. Changes in routine. Look for • Reckless behaviour. Self-harm, disrupted sleep, loss of appetite, increased alcohol or drug use, declining school performance, aggression or sudden risk-taking frequent absences or neglect of are all signs that a teenager may

be in emotional crisis. • Giving things away. If your teen starts giving away valued possessions, saying goodbye to friends, writing about death or putting

affairs in order act immediately. What parents should do • Ask directly, "Are you thinking about suicide?" Asking does not plant the idea; it creates an opportunity for honesty. Stay calm, listen without judgment, and do not promise secrecy. If there is a plan, access to means or a recent attempt do not leave your teen alone. • Remove firearms, pills and other dangerous items, and seek emergency medical help immediately. • Connect your child with a professional – a doctor, psychologist, school counsellor or social worker. After an attempt participate in their treatment and safety plan. Do not dismiss it as attention-seeking. • Keep checking in. An improvement in mood does not always mean the risk has passed.

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To balance your teen Y

our teenager studies until midnight, redoing an essay three times. Dedication or distress? The line between healthy drive and toxic perfectionism is razor-thin, and many teens cross it without realising. The difference that matters Healthy motivation says "I want to do well." Toxic perfectionism says, "I must be flawless, or I am worthless." The first is powered by curiosity and purpose. The second is powered by fear - fear of failure, judgement, or disappointing others. A motivated teen feels energised by a challenge. A perfectionist feels crushed by it. Motivation says "Good effort, I will try again." Perfectionism says "Anything less than perfect is a catastrophe." The hyper-competitive trap Schools, sports and social media have turned achievement into a public sport. Rank tables, leaderboard apps and curated highlight reels of other people's success create relentless pressure. Teens absorb the

Signs your teen may be crossing the line Watch for these red flags: excessive self-criticism after minor mistakes, inability to start tasks without feeling overwhelmed, physical symptoms like headaches and stomach aches before tests or performances, avoidance of activities where they might not excel, and tying their entire self-worth to results. What parents can do Praise effort, not outcomes. Celebrate the hours of study, not just the mark it produced. "I saw how hard you worked on that" builds resilience. "You are so clever" builds fragility. Normalise failure. Share your own setbacks. Let them see that mistakes are part of learning, not proof of inadequacy. Keep expectations realistic. Not every test needs a distinction. Not every match needs a win. A teen who feels accepted for who they are – not just what they achieve – develops the kind of motivation that lasts a lifetime: the kind that comes from within, not from fear.

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BABY STEPS BIG JOURNEY

School (cyber) bullying in SA B

ullying is no longer confined to the school playground. It follows children home through screens, group chats and social media, is relentless, public and inescapable. In South Africa the scale of the problem is alarming and growing. According to the Film and Publication Board's national survey 51% of online abuse involved cyberbullying, with 33% of girls and 29% of boys in schools affected. Between October 2024 and September 2025 provincial education departments across the country reported more than 11 000 bullying incidents at public schools. A 2026 Stellenbosch University study found that nearly 64% of learners across four urban high schools were involved in cyberbullying, as victims, perpetrators, or both. TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat were the most

common platforms. The impact is devastating: declining grades, anxiety, depression, lowered self-esteem and even suicidal thoughts. Recognising the signs A child being bullied may suddenly resist school, withdraw from friends, lose interest in activities or show unexplained mood swings. Sleep and appetite changes are common. Cyberbullying adds digital clues; a child who hides their phone, deletes messages or becomes distressed after checking social media may be a target. Watch for torn clothing, missing belongings or unexplained bruises. A drop in academic performance is another warning sign. What parents can do Talk openly. Ask specific questions: "Has anyone been unkind to you online?" or "Does anyone bother you at school?" Listen without minimising.

Keep evidence. Save screenshots, messages and dates. Do not retaliate or confront the bully directly. Report to the school. Every South African school must provide a safe environment. Speak to the teacher, principal or school governing body and ask that the complaint be formally recorded. Report online abuse. Seek professional support. A qualified counsellor or psychologist can help your child process the emotional impact and rebuild confidence.

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Where to Get Help • Childline South Africa: 116 (free, 24/7) • SADAG Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 567 567 • Cipla Mental Health Helpline: 0800 515 515 • Department of Basic Education: 0800 202 933 • WCED Safe Schools Call Centre (Western Cape): 0800 45 46 47

BABY STEPS BIG JOURNEY

2026

Grade 9: Choosing subjects for last leg G

rade 9 is the year every South African learner must choose the subjects that will carry them through to matric. Get it wrong and certain university and college doors close. Get it right and the path opens wide. Here’s how learners and parents can decide together. What learners must do Know the rules. Four subjects are compulsory – two languages, Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy and Life Orientation. You then choose three optional subjects from what your school offers. Follow your strengths. Choose subjects you enjoy and perform well in. Interest fuels achievement; without it even “easy” subjects become a grind. Research career requirements. Engineering, medicine and computer science require

Mathematics and Physical Sciences. Many degrees list minimum subject and mark requirements; check university websites before you choose. Think Maths carefully. Mathematics opens more doors than Mathematical Literacy. If you can cope hold onto it, but don’t risk failing matric over one subject. Don’t follow the crowd. Choose for yourself, not for friends, teachers or parents. What parents must do Guide, don’t decide. Listen to your child’s interests and ambitions. Research careers and admission requirements together, but let the final call be theirs. Stay open-minded. Career paths today are far more varied nowadays. Seek professional help. Ask teachers for honest feedback; consider psychometric test for direction. Choose strategically, research thoroughly, for these choices shape one’s future.

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BABY STEPS BIG JOURNEY

2026

From hobby to livelihood A

cross South Africa a new generation of young entrepreneurs is rewriting what it means to earn a living. Armed with a smartphone, a creative spark and sheer determination, they are transforming hobbies – beaded jewellery, custom fashion, digital art, homemade cosmetics – into legitimate small businesses that reach customers far beyond their neighbourhoods. The digital difference What makes this wave different is access. A decade ago turning a craft into a business meant renting a market stall, printing flyers and hoping foot traffic would come. Today, a young creative in the Overberg can photograph a product on a phone, list it on Shopify or Instagram, and reach buyers across the country, sometimes across the continent within hours. Social commerce is where most start. WhatsApp groups and Instagram pages serve as free storefronts, allowing young

founders to take orders, build a following, and test products before investing in a formal website. Once sales grow platforms such as Shopify offer the next step – a branded online store with payment gateways and shipping integration. South African support ecosystems The support landscape has grown significantly. The Department of Small Business Development launched the Youth Entre-

preneurship Programme in 2026, offering finance up to R5 million per project at reduced rates. Future Founder SA, launched in 2025, provides a 12-week digital-first pathway with more than R250 000 in seed capital for young entrepreneurs. Business and Arts South Africa's Debut Fund supports 50 emerging creative entrepreneurs from rural and peri-urban areas, while Youth4Business, backed by YES and Sanlam, backs 60 youth-

owned enterprises in the creative, green and digital sectors. The UNDP and UVU Africa's timbuktoo Creative Hub incubator helps early-stage creatives in audio-visual, design and music turns concepts into viable businesses. Digital tools levelling the playing field Artificial intelligence is entering the toolkit too. According to UNCTAD research 41% of South African creatives now use ChatGPT for content, 25% use Canva for design, and 15% use Adobe Suite. These tools reduce costs and level the playing field for young founders who cannot afford professional services. The Bigger PictureYouth unemployment remains one of South Africa's greatest challenges. But these young entrepreneurs represent something powerful: a shift from waiting for jobs to creating them. With the right support, mentorship and affordable digital access, a hobby today can become a livelihood tomorrow and a business that employs others the day after.

BABY STEPS BIG JOURNEY

2026

The teen’s first budget Y

ou earn pocket money, maybe a part-time job pays a little extra, yet somehow it all vanishes before the month is over. Sound familiar? Learning to handle money now – while the stakes are small – gives you a head start most adults wish they had. You do not need a finance degree. You need a plan. Know what comes in and what goes out Start with two numbers: what you earn and what you spend. Write down every source of income – pocket money, wages, gifts, birthday cash. Then track everything you spend for one week. Snacks, data bundles, gaming credits, that impulse hoodie. Seeing it on paper is the first step toward controlling it. The 50-30-20 rule – Teen Edition Adults use this framework, and it works just as well for you, scaled down: • 50% for needs – things you genuinely require, like phone data or transport.

• 30% for wants – treats, entertainment, outings with friends. • 20% for savings – money you set aside and simply do not touch. If your only income is pocket money, the percentages still apply. Even saving R20 a week adds up to over R1 000 a year. That is real money for something that matters to you. Beating the Impulse Buy Retailers design sales, countdown timers, and "limited stock" warnings to trigger urgency. Before you pay, try the 48-hour rule: wait two days. If you still want it, buy it. Most times the urge fades and you keep your money. Ask yourself one question every time: Do I need this, or do I just want the feeling of buying it? What Is Financial Literacy, really? It is not jargon. It is understanding four simple ideas: income (money in), expenses (money out), saving (money kept) and borrowing (money owed,

usually with interest that costs you more later). Grasp these four and you are already ahead of most people your age. Start small, stay consistent You do not need to be perfect. Budgeting is a habit, and habits are built one week at a time. Open a savings account if you can, set a weekly goal and watch the balance grow. Your future self will thank you, not because you became rich overnight, but because you learnt that money is a tool, not a mystery.

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BABY STEPS BIG JOURNEY

When to walk away...

ot every friendship is built to last forever, and that is not a failure. As you move through your teens and 20, the people who once felt like home can feel as if they are strangers. Understanding why this happens, and knowing the difference between a friendship that has run its course and one that has turned toxic, is a skill worth developing. Why we grow apart Growing apart is rarely dramatic. There is usually no argument, no betrayal, just a slow realisation that you and your childhood friend no longer share the same values, interests or direction. One of you may be focused on studies and career while the other is still living for weekend parties. Friendships formed in childhood were often built on proximity – same school, same neighbourhood, same sports team – rather than shared values. When

those external scaffolds fall away the connection sometimes falls with them. How to handle the drift You do not owe anyone a formal breakup conversation, but you do not need to ghost someone who once mattered. Let the contact naturally space itself out. Respond when you can, be warm, but do not force hollow interactions. If a friendship is fading gently and both sides seem content with less contact trust it. It is not unkind to invest your energy where it feels mutual. Spotting toxic dynamics Some friendships, though, are not just fading; they are actively harming you. Warning signs include feeling drained or anxious after every interaction, never uplifted. The friendship runs on guilt: if you are busy you are accused of abandoning them. They dismiss your achievements, compete with you or gossip about your other friends.

Apologies only flow one way; you are always in the wrong. The relationship feels conditional on you conforming to who they want you to be. When to walk away If a friendship consistently leaves you feeling smaller, guilt-ridden or on edge it has moved beyond drift into territory that demands a decision. Set a boundary and communicate what you need, once. If the pattern does not change give yourself permission to step back fully. Letting go of a toxic friendship is not cruel; it is self-respect. What remains Childhood friendships gave you some-

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thing real, even if they did not last. They shaped your sense of loyalty, humour and belonging. Honour what they were without insisting on what they should be. The friendships that survive the shift, and the new ones you build with intention, are the ones worth holding.

BABY STEPS BIG JOURNEY

2026

How to handle a break-up gracefully A

break-up hurts. Whether it came out of nowhere or you felt it building for weeks the ache is real and you are allowed to feel it. The question is not how to avoid the pain, but how to move through it without losing yourself. Feel it fully Do not pretend you are fine if you are not. Cry, vent, write it all out, talk to someone you trust. Bottling things up does not make you strong; it just delays healing. Your feelings are valid, and giving them space is the fastest way through. Cut the digital cord Mute or unfollow them on social media. Every post you scroll past is a tiny wound reopened. Step back from their online world for a while as you heal. Do not seek closure from them

You want answers. Here is the truth: closure rarely comes from the other person. It comes from you; deciding the chapter is closed even if the last page was messy. Write them a letter saying everything you feel, then tear it up completely. Rebuild your routine Break-ups leave gaps — the good morning text, the weekend plans. Fill those gaps deliberately. Reconnect with friends, pick up a hobby, throw yourself into something you enjoy. You are not replacing them; you are reminding yourself your life is full with or without them. You will be okay It feels permanent right now. It is not. Every single day the ache gets lighter. One morning you will wake up and realise you have not thought about it first thing. That is the day you will know: you made it through. 0000000-HLGC211026

BABY STEPS BIG JOURNEY

2026

Mastering Your Calendar: Work, Life, and Sleep ol, ho Sc g cin lan Ba r fo s ck Ha t en em Time-Manag

here are 24 hours in a day and roughly 16 of them are you awake. After school, homework, a part-time job and the things you actually enjoy, that window shrinks fast. The good news?

Managing your time is a skill, and like any skill, it gets easier with practice. Here is how to fit it all in without burning out. Map your week Pick one day – Sunday evening works well – and sketch out the week ahead. Block out fixed commitments first: classes, shifts, practices. Then slot in study time, meals, travel and down time. Seeing everything in one place prevents the classic trap of dou-

ble-booking yourself or forgetting an assignment until the night before. A paper diary, a phone calendar or a whiteboard, use whatever you will actually check and keep it visible. Study smarter, not longer Two hours of focused work beats four hours of distracted half-effort. Try the Pomodoro technique: 25 minutes of deep focus, five minutes off, repeat. Turn off notifications, close the extra tabs, and put your phone in another room. Y ou will finish faster and reclaim time for the things you actually want to do. Protect your job, but set limits A part-time job teaches responsibility and puts money in your

pocket, but it should not consume your week. Know your availability and communicate it clearly to your manager. If shifts creep into study time or leave you exhausted for school speak up early. A good employer will respect a teen who knows their boundaries and manages their time.

Do not sacrifice sleep This is the one most teens get wrong. Pulling late nights to catch up creates a cycle; you sleep less, focus worse the next day, fall further behind, and stay up later again. Aim for eight hours every night, even at weekends if you can. Treat your bedtime like a fixed

appointment, not a suggestion. Everything on your calendar functions better when your brain is rested. Leave room to breathe A calendar with no gaps is a recipe for burnout. Build in buffer blocks time with no plan, no productivity, no guilt. Watch a series, go for a walk, hang out with friends. Rest is not wasted time; it is the fuel that keeps you going. The bottom line You cannot add hours to the day, but you can spend the ones you have with intention. Plan ahead, focus when it counts, guard your sleep, and always make space for the things that make you, you. Master your calendar and you master your time.

2026 Deciphering your parents

BABY STEPS BIG JOURNEY

Why They Seem So Stressed

ver wondered why your parents snap over something small, like a dish left in the sink?

It is rarely about the dish. Parents carry pressures you may not see – bills, job stress, worrying about your future, ageing parents of their own. When they seem stressed it is often the weight of being responsible for everything at once. Understanding their world Your parents grew up in a different time with different rules and different fears. Their version of caring sometimes looks like control, but it is usually worry in disguise. Asking "how was your day?" instead of arguing can shift the whole

dynamic. Managing arguments When a fight starts try this: pause before you react. One slow, deep breath. Then say what you feel, not what is wrong with them. "I feel pressured when you check my homework every night" lands very differently from "you never trust me." Same message, far less fuel on the fire. Building mutual respect Respect is a two-way street, even when the other person is your parent. Do your part without being asked sometimes; it genuinely surprises them. Listen to their perspective fully before defending yours. Small acts of maturity earn you the freedom you want and the trust they need to give it.

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BABY STEPS BIG JOURNEY

2026

A guide to career choices M

atric is almost done. The pressure is real, but so are the possibilities. The question every matric faces is the same: what comes next? Here is how to find your path and where to look for help in the Overberg. Start with yourself Before choosing a career understand yourself. The Department of Higher Education and Training offers the National Career Advice Portal (NCAP), a free online tool where you complete questionnaires on your interests, abilities, skills, and values. The results reveal patterns, not a single answer, pointing you toward fields that fit who you are. Make a shortlist of three to five realistic options. For each check the required matric subjects, minimum marks and whether Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy is accepted. Medicine and engineering need strong Maths and Physical Sciences. Teaching and law rely

more on language proficiency. Not every path leads through university – TVET colleges, learnerships, apprenticeships, and higher certificates are all legitimate routes to a career. Attend a Careers Day Nothing replaces face-to-face conversation. Careers days let you speak to professionals, university reps and training providers directly. In the Overberg several events serve school leavers: The Department of Employment and Labour regularly hosts a Jobs and Careers Fair, connecting job seekers with employers and training institutions. Overstrand Municipality supports career expos at schools such as Hawston Secondary, where local businesses gave matrics practical advice on fields from conservation to digital marketing. SANBI hosts annual biodiversity career expos for Overberg high schools during National Science Week. Stanford holds a Youth Career Awareness

Day, covering university, learnerships, apprenticeships and entrepreneurship. Test before you commit Talk to someone working in your chosen field. Job-shadow for a day. Volunteer. Attend an open day. Read the actual course curriculum before applying. A career sounds very different on paper than it does in practice. Get professional support If you are still unsure book a career assessment through a university. Stellenbosch, Wits and UWC all offer psychometric assessments with feedback sessions. Your school counsellor or a trusted teacher can also guide you. The Overberg Education District office in Caledon is another resource. Your matric year is not the end of the road. It is the start of the search, and the right career is the one that fits you.

BABY STEPS BIG JOURNEY

2026

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