Baby's and Beyond - Volume 8 l Issue 4 - December 2021 to February 2022

VOLUME 8

INSIDE: FEATURES | COMPETITIONS | KICKS FOR KIDS | RECIPES

a family lifestyle magazine TM

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Coping with the care of an

unwell child Proactive healthcare

Weaning 101:

How to start solids

behaviour can save women’s lives

Surviving the first week with a newborn December 2021 | R29.90 Incl. VAT Other Countries R26.00 22014

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SUMMER

Reandi Grey

The more you have to do, the more you can get done Raising generation green The dangers of ‘sharenting’ How to get your child ‘big school’ ready

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It’s summer and after a difficult 2021, we hope for a happy, healthy and successful 2022.

Ushering in a new year for many brings hope and a renewed sense of vigour.

It’s an opportunity to do a makeover and set new goals, whether it be from an individual, family or professional perspective.

Summer is a season of celebration, but it's been a tough couple of years and mental health remains a serious issue. In this edition we take a serious look at mental health in the article, “Living with depression doesn’t mean you can’t be a stronger version of yourself ” and also “Creating hope for the prevention of suicide”. We also know that while parenting is very rewarding, it can also be stressful – check out the article on “Surviving toddlerhood”.

In our cover story featuring Reandi Grey, she speaks about how she manages to juggle a busy schedule and the importance of lists and forward planning.

R59

Smart Colouring & Activity Book 96 page My First Words – for Early Learning Development | Available at Waltons stores & online at www.backtoschool.co.za

Directly after the festive season, most parents will be in stress mode about the new school year, which somehow always seems to be a mad rush. There are some interesting insights for parents in “How to get your child big school ready”.

We also touch on the importance of reading in “Reading to children today paves the path for their development in the future”.

While parenting can be daunting with so many firsts, it is also an exciting journey – the best we can do is read up and gain as much knowledge to be prepared and give our children the best possible start in life.

But, as it’s summer it’s not all about future planning – it’s the season where we take some much-needed time out and spend it with our loved ones. A great way to do this is to muck about in the garden with the kiddos (see the "Raising generation green" article). If we have learnt anything in the past two years, it’s to cherish our time and spend it wisely, take breaks where needed and be gentle on yourself – we are all doing the best we can.

From the entire Baby’s & Beyond family, we wish you a spectacular and healthy summer festive season!

Elroy 2

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school

back to

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Because nutrients matter

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contents

COVER FEATURE

14

Reandi Grey – the more you have to do, the more you can get done

reduce your joint pain and help you live a pain free life

48

Should improving the air quality in your child’s room be a priority?

BACK TO SCHOOL

20

Hassle-free back to school routine

52

Proactive healthcare behaviour can save women’s lives

BREASTFEEDING

26

Weaning 101: how to start solids

Breastfeeding 101: when in doubt, reach out

PHYSICAL HEALTH

Reading to children today paves the path for their development in the future

64

CONTRACEPTION

68

35

What every woman should know about ‘the pill’ EYE CARE

40

EDUCATION

PARENTING Surviving the first week with a newborn – a surgeon’s approach

Shower fun for the entire family

The dangers of ‘sharenting’ – parents who share too much SAFETY FIRST

How to wash bras without damaging them

100

MENTAL HEALTH

SAVING

72

102

A day at the beach

Turn your kids into bargain hunters not impulse buyers SKINCARE

42

74

104

HEALTH

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DIY GARDENING

How to get your child ‘big school’ ready

46

Treat your aching joints: 5 tips that will

@babysandbeyond.co.za

@BabysandBeyond

Is your skin dry or dehydrated?

Surviving toddlerhood

5 ways cleaning can improve your mental health

6 Carlton Crescent, Parklands, 7441 | Tel: 021 424 3625 | Fax: 086 270 9693 Email: info@babysandbeyond.co.za | Website: www.mediaxpose.co.za

babysandbeyond

Front Cover Credit: Rozier van Tonder Picture Credit: 123rf.com / pixabay.com Distribution:

ON THE DOT Printed by:

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or its agents. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, the publisher does not accept responsibility for any error or omission contained herein. Consequently, no person connected with the publication of this journal will be liable for any loss or damage sustained by any reader as a result of action following statements or opinions expressed herein. The publisher will give consideration to all material submitted, but does not take responsibility for damage or its safe return.

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Research reveals 61% of mothers are concerned their children are not getting a balanced diet

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Living with depression doesn’t mean you can’t be a stronger version of yourself

Caring for young eyes

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92

62

HOUSEHOLD

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NUTRITION

It’s all about the ‘HASS’

Osteoporosis in children

CHILD DEVELOPMENT

Creating hope for the prevention of suicide

90

56

Coping with the care of an unwell child

28

82

106

Raising ‘Generation Green’

Editor: Elroy van Heerden editor@babysandbeyond.co.za

Editorial Assistant: Maurisha Niewenhuys maurisha@mediaxpose.co.za

Head of Editorial: Tashne Singh editorial@mediaxpose.co.za

Advertising Sales: Allison Davids allison@babysandbeyond.co.za Lorraine Beneke lorraine@babysandbeyond.co.za

Sub-Editor: Tessa O'Hara tessa.ohara@gmail.com Content Manager: Wadoeda Adams artwork@mediaxpose.co.za Editorial Contributors: Ana Frawley Jonathan Drake Catherine Clark Dr Emmanuel Majachani Dr Terri Henderson Dr Naadir Bismilla Michelle Beh Danielle Badeuhorst Michelle Dickens Design & Layout: Anja Bramley artwork1@mediaxpose.co.za

Digital Marketing Manager: Trish Jukes digital@mediaxpose.co.za Social Media: Kyla van Heerden social@mediaxpose.co.za Distribution & Subscriptions: Shihaam Gyer distribution@mediaxpose.co.za Retail Distribution: On The Dot Chief Financial Officer: Shaun Mays shaun@mediaxpose.co.za Receptionist: Daniëla Daniels receptionist@mediaxpose.co.za

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

snippets – editor's choice

Big news for little ones UCOOK has teamed up with Kath Megaw, one of South Africa’s leading paediatric dieticians, to create a range of frozen kids’ meals.

The new UCOOK Frozen Kids range launches with six meals and two pizza options with more to come, each boasting the promise of no-nonsense goodness to ensure that children get the required quantities of essential vitamins and minerals from a large quantity of hidden vegetables in every dish. The meals are suitable for children from the toddler to pre-teen years.

“Making sure that your child eats a balanced diet and consumes the required number of fruits, vegetables, vitamins

and minerals can be difficult,” says Megaw.

“Now you can rest assured that your child is eating a healthy balanced meal.”

The UCOOK range has no added preservatives, sugars, sweeteners, artificial colourants or flavours and no added MSG.

• UCOOK Kids Double Cheese Mini Pizzas • UCOOK Kids Bacon and Cheese Mini Pizzas To explore the range and order your first taste, visit www.ucook.co.za

The new UCOOK Kids Frozen range launches with these meals: • UCOOK Kids Mac & Cheese • UCOOK Kids Beef Lasagna • UCOOK Kids Beef Rump Bites & Root Veg Mash • UCOOK Kids Chicken & Broccoli Bake • UCOOK Kids Mushroom Bites & Root Veggie Mash • UCOOK Kids Spaghetti Bolognese

Connect with nature this summer It's summer time where spending time outdoors and soaking up the sunshine is the norm.

Need to stock up on some summer essentials to ensure that you are ready to have some fun in the sun? Why not

consider some green goodies that help support our natural heritage?

We live in a megadiverse country with some of the world’s richest biodiversity.

The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF South Africa) offer some must-have items that are local, sustainable, support conservation and encourage people to get out and experience the beauty of South Africa’s natural environment. WWF works in a range of areas to protect our natural resources – oceans, land, wildlife – so that we can continue to benefit from everything nature provides us with such as food, energy and fresh water.

Available on the WWF SA online store, all products are ethically or sustainably sourced and are made of recycled or recyclable

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material, or from 100% African cotton where applicable.

Among the eco-friendly products on offer are: • Functional and stylish beach bags made of waste fabric that normally goes into landfills.

• Bold and beautifully designed recycled plastic t-shirts for men and women.

• Comfortable and easy-to-wear kids t-shirts made from recycled plastic bottles.

• An on-trend Bella handbag that is made out of recycled PET bottles.

• Reusable silicone straws that can be easily cleaned, folded and stored away.

• Colourful reusable water bottles to keep you hydrated – 450ml and 580ml.

To view more sustainable products, visit www.shop.wwfsa.org.za www.babysandbeyond.co.za

snippets – editor's choice

Shudu finds her magic

Spec-Savers launches buy-1-get-1 summer promo with free prescription eye wear worth R3 100!

With Spec-Savers’ incredible buy-1-get-1 summer promotion, you qualify for a free pair of sunglasses or optical frames of your choice to the value of R3 100 when you purchase an eye examination and your first pair of spectacles.

Lauren Baker, Marketing Head for Spec-Savers South Africa, says that the promotion is available to customers of all ages and the single vision or multifocal wearer.

“In summer it is essential to protect your eyes, as they are among the body’s most vital organs and the most sensitive.

So be sure to choose good quality sunglasses that block out the sun’s harmful UV rays. Think of sunglasses as acting like sunblock for your eyes and don’t spend time in the sun without them,” she says.

The promotion is valid from 1 November 2021 until 31 March 2022 and is available while stocks last.

For further details on the promotion and to view the T&C’s, please visit www.specsavers.co.za/offers/ www.babysandbeyond.co.za

In this courageous and beautiful book, former Miss South Africa, Shudufhadzo Musida, tells the story of her upbringing as a delightful and outgoing girl in a small village named Ha-Vhangani. She is surrounded by a loving extended family. Things for Shudu, however, take a turn for the worse when her mother gets a new job, and they move to Mpumalanga.

At her new school, Shudu is bullied by her classmates.

Read how Shudu overcomes the bullying and sadness, and grows into a girl, and then an adult, who has learned to love herself.

“The one lesson I learnt is that when something bad is happening to you it is important to speak to an adult that you trust about it. This could be a parent, a family member, a teacher or an elder. Remember that being bullied is not your fault. There is nothing wrong with you. Nobody should have to go through what I went through,” says Shudu.

Fumanisa ukuba UnoMlingo) and Zulu (uShudu Uthola Umlingo Wakhe).

The Miss South Africa organisation and Jacana Media are determined that Shudu’s book is available to children around the country. For every book sold, one will be donated to Childline South Africa and The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) who help children with issues like bullying and depression.

Copies will also be given to literacy organisations like Biblionef, which donate books to schools and libraries to help foster a love of reading. www.misssa.co.za/shudu-finds-hermagic-book www.jacana.co.za/shudu-finds-hermagic

Published in partnership with Miss South Africa, the book is available in Afrikaans (Shudu Vind Haar Sprankel), English (Shudu Finds Her Magic), Sesotho (Shudu O Sibolla Boikgetho ba hae), Venda (Shudu u wana Vhutolo Hawe), Xhosa (uShudu u

WIN

Shudu Book

Stand a chance to WIN 1 of 2 SHUDU BOOKS. TO ENTER scan the QR code with your phone and complete the entry form online at www.mediaxpose.co.za/ babys-and-beyond-publication-page/competitions/

The competition close on 28 February 2022 and winners will be announced on 3 March 2022.

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snippets – editor's choice

Start your day the healthy way The benefits of eating breakfast are vast – from balancing blood sugar levels to boosting your energy and preventing overeating – and yet despite knowing all these truths so many of us still skip this all-important meal.

Why? Angela Leach, Head Dietitian for FUTURELIFE® believes that whilst a handful of people are deliberately avoiding breakfast in the hope that they will lose weight, most of us are simply not in the habit of eating breakfast.

To reboot your brain and establish healthy, new eating habits Leach offers these 5 tips:

1. Start small Instead of eating, drink your breakfast.

For example, FUTURELIFE® Smart food™ Wheat can quickly and easily be mixed and enjoyed as a shake. It contains the essential proteins, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and carbohydrates that whole wheat delivers in addition to being an easy-to-prepare breakfast.

2. Be prepared Make sure that your pantry and fridge are stocked with tasty breakfast options and pack your breakfast for the next day.

FUTURELIFE® Smart food™ Wheat requires no cooking, making it a convenient choice whether at home or work.

3. Establish a routine You’ll need to allocate time to have breakfast, so put time

aside in your diary or set your alarm to remind you.

4. Choose wisely Opt for a lower sugar, high fibre and balanced breakfast option. Start the day with bowl of FUTURELIFE® Smart food™ Wheat, which has 50% reduced sugar and is high in 19 vitamins and minerals.

5. Be flexible Keep a supply of suitable foodstuffs at the office with a long shelf-life (e.g. rice cakes, nuts, dried fruit and peanut butter). You can also pop a couple of FUTURELIFE® High Protein bars into your cubby hole or bag. Most FUTURELIFE® variants also come in convenient 50g (single serving) sachets, which can quickly and easily be mixed with milk or water in a shaker and consumed on-the-go.

Freshness that's ‘Head of the Class’ Packing lunches can be a family bonding experience and a great opportunity to teach your children how to create their own school meals and perhaps educate them about healthy eating choices too.

You might even discover along the way that your kids enjoy the responsibility of being in charge of their food.

Plus, you could keep a notepad handy, for them to write down their ‘shopping list’ suggestions.

As always, GLAD is here to help you and your family. With the GLAD Zip Seal resealable range, this is a cinch. Remember their Zip Seal® clever seal lets you know it’s sealed properly with their yellow and blue makes green technology. Plus you can write the date and contents, or name, on the printed white strip.

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Tips to help kids pack their own lunches • Keep the pantry stocked with healthy staples such as nuts and dried fruit.

• Create a ‘snack station’ with prebagged snacks, in GLAD Zip Seal Snack Bags, for the whole family to grab from.

• Keep school meals in mind when you make dinner, because leftovers can be yummy the next day and help save food.

• Create delicious sandwiches from leftovers and keep them fresh in GLAD Zip Seal Sandwich Bags.

• Before the next school week starts, spend some time as a family planning and preparing the lunch menu for the upcoming week.

All it takes is a touch of creativity and pre-planning, and the kids will love their new-found independence.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

sticky notes

Teaching your child to share

• Teach your child cooperative games instead of competitive games.

• Teach your child to problem solve.

• Set good examples.

• Practice what you preach.

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A few ideas to

teach your child the alphabet 1 2 3 3

Reading books are a great way to help your children learn their letters.

The benefits of at least

glasses of water a day

Raising financially

Eat the alphabet (e.g., a – apple).

Drinking eight glasses of water a day can help you boost your immune system functions.

Because the body is made up of water and relies on it so heavily to perform its functions, drinking more of it can help ensure there is no interruption in the system.

fungal infections

Start teaching them about saving money at an early age.

Create a sense of responsibility.

Never buy anything on credit to keep your child happy.

Be open about family finances.

Monthly allowances are a great teaching tool.

The harmful effects of earphones • Hearing loss • Dizziness • Ear infection • Excessive ear wax • Ear pain

Alphabet art – kids with a creative streak will enjoy these activities.

How to prevent

savvy kids

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Many children learn through touch and experience.

Always keep your skin clean and dry, particularly in the folds of your skin.

Wash your hands often, especially after touching animals, surfaces or other people. Avoid using other people's towels and other personal care products. Wear shoes or flip flops in locker rooms and communal showers.

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www.babysandbeyond.co.za

sticky notes

How to encourage your child to fall asleep alone

HELPING

• Make them feel secure by keeping a night lamp on or leave the bedroom door open.

• Get them ready for bed with a calming bedtime routine.

• A comfort object like a stuffed animal is always a great sleeping companion.

kids cope with divorce

1. Encourage honesty.

2. Help them put their feelings into words.

3. Offer support.

4. Keep yourself healthy.

5. Keep the details in check.

6. Get help from a professional.

Did you know?

Babies have more bones than grown-ups. You're born with about 300 bones, but when you're an adult you end up with around 260.

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Top

shopping tips Shop with a list.

Always set a budget.

Pay with cash instead of credit.

Pick the best time for shopping.

Shop alone.

Don't shop when you are tired, hungry, lonely, bored or upset.

Don’t do impulsive shopping.

Don’t buy just because it’s on sale.

How to help your child adjust to a new sibling • Give them special jobs to do to help with the new baby.

• Ask their advice on simple things about the baby.

• Watch the baby together.

• Read stories about their new role as the older sibling.

• Let them read bedtime stories to the new baby.

• Offer them bonding time with the new baby.

• Spend a little time alone with them so they don’t feel forgotten. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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cover feature

Reandi Grey –

the more you have to do, the more you can get done Rozier van Tonder

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www.babysandbeyond.co.za

cover feature Reandi Grey, wife, mother, actress, businesswoman and creative genius with another baby on the way, speaks to BABY’S AND BEYOND about her journey of continuous growth, and how she manages to successfully juggle her demanding schedule.

Over the years your career has undergone many transformations, from graphic designer to actress and more recently, the launch of your fashion brand. What drives you?

I was born with a creative thirst, which can only be quenched by the constant pleasure of creating. Life is one big season of spring for me – spring personifies renewal. As long as I can be creative and bring something new to life, I am in my happy place. Whether it be a new logo, a new character or a new dress, it awakens a new mood of hope and joy in me.

Tell us a bit about your fashion label, GreyC. How did it come about and what are your plans for it?

I started creating my own clothes when I was in high school. I have always been very artistic, and the shops just did not satisfy my weird and wonderful needs. Hence, I decided to make my own garments.

I did not fully have the knowledge and ability to make everything from scratch, so I took existing items, cut them up, mixed them up, and put a whole new garment together.

Years later I struck a bland spot in shopping again and could not seem to be satisfied with what the shops had

to offer, so I decided to start making my own clothes again. I thought if I am going through the whole process of designing, pattern making, sampling and manufacturing, I might as well do it on a bigger scale and share my God-given creativity with the world.

The dream with GreyC is to inspire women to be free. To be confident and courageous. As my garments are definitely not subtle, they will take you out of your comfort zone to explore a happier and free spirited you.

Over the past few years, you moved on from 7de Laan, joined the Legacy cast, had a baby, opened a new business and are expecting another baby – congratulations! How have all these changes impacted you and your family life, and how do you manage to juggle it all?

Prayers, prayers and more prayers. Having a lot going on in your life is such a blessing, but it can also start stealing from your existing blessings. God, my husband and family are my very first priorities.

When things get too much you forget about your first priories and blessings.

Balance is important and you have to make time to sit – just sit and breathe. If you don’t come back to base, you won’t have the tools to make the next adventure.

You have to recoup, make your lists and divide all the items on your checklist in a practical manner. Do not underestimate lists – I would forget absolutely everything if it wasn’t for my lists. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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cover feature

Does your second pregnancy feel different from your first, and what are you most looking forward to?

It is definitely different in the sense that I am much more relaxed about the specifics and physical aspects of the pregnancy. With my firstborn I had no idea what to expect, so I was glued to my phone and refreshed my app every hour to see if little Heidi had grown a new bone or developed a new sense. Now I just enjoy my baby bump without worrying and wondering the whole time. Also, with a busy toddler, there is more than enough happening outside of my body that keeps me from constantly wondering about what is happening inside my body.

What are the highs and lows of being a career woman and a wife and mother? What does being a mother mean to you?

Being driven by the constant need to learn and experience new things, does come with the threat of never being fully present in one specific area. When you are thriving in your career, you cannot help but think how much time it took to get there. And how much time it means you are not spending with your family. When you are thriving in your role as a wife or mother, you sometimes forget about the importance of your role at work.

I believe you are born with certain dreams, and some dreams are developed.

Since I was a kid, I have always dreamt about being an actress. Having a little kid only truly became a dream when I had one. Then that dream, of being a mother became bigger than the one I have had my whole life. Luckily God has created us as flexible beings, so we can adapt and create new paths for ourselves.

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Since becoming a mum, what has been the biggest change you have experienced as an individual?

I think the biggest lesson that I have learnt is that we can do much more; we were created to be so much more than what we give ourselves credit for.

Before kids I thought I was broke.

Before kids I thought I was busy.

Before kids I thought I didn’t have enough space for everything. Now, that I have kids I realise I was only bad at planning and managing all those things.

I have achieved more in the last two and a half years since Heidi was born, than I have in all my 20s. The more you have to do, the more you get done.

I think the biggest lesson that I have learnt is that we can do much more; we were created to be so much more than what we give ourselves credit for.

Being the mother of a daughter and with another daughter on the way, what is the most crucial life lesson you want to impart to your girls?

You are a strong and independent, but real woman. If something breaks, fix it yourself. If your hair is messy, own it. If your clothes are creased, say it is because you have lived a full and prosperous day.

If you want to cry, let the tears flood freely and with confidence because you are a real human being. Love and cherish your sister, she will be your mentor, your teammate and your best friend for life. But above all, be a Proverbs 31:25 woman: “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future”. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

cover feature From your fashion brand to your growing career in television, your personality and individuality continues to shine through. What advice do you have for women with regard to pursuing their dreams?

Time is a beautiful thing. It is one of the most powerful things on earth, and there are not many things like time to keep us humble. We have no control. We must be patient. We must have faith. If it needs to happen, it will most definitely happen, in time. If not, it was not meant to be. Use time wisely. Do not sit still and wait for the right time, the journey is just as important as the arrival.

Covid-19 brought about a lot of changes. How has it impacted you and your family, and could you share what are some of the key lessons you have taken away from this pandemic?

The time we live in can destroy us or renew us. It is a time for all of us to be opportunists.

We have to grab every opportunity we have to make amends where needed, to build relationships, to tell the people we love how much we love them. If ever our eyes were opened to how fragile life is, it is now. Make sure you are building your legacy. Make sure you are doing all you can to bring heaven to earth, as that is what we are here to do.

What is next on the horizon for Reandi?

An action movie! I am declaring it and putting it out in the universe as that would be such a highlight and dream come true for my career. I would also like to open a GreyC store and not only sell online. 

Up close & personal with Reandi!

A typical day: Every day is different – just the way I like it.

The less routine the better.

Fave movie: The Sound of Music Fave series: The Queen’s Gambit Fave food: Paella Hobbies: Macrame and painting Pet peeve: Being late Superpower: Mother www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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home remedies

Mosquito

How do you cure tired feet?

Repellant

Soak your feet in warm water with Epsom salts, or use a warm, wet towel and wrap it around your feet and legs. Massage your feet or have someone massage your feet for you. Exercising your feet helps keep them healthy as it tones muscles, assists to strengthen the arches and stimulate blood circulation.

Add 10ml of lemon eucalyptus oil and 90ml of any carrier oil (olive oil or coconut oil) to make a homemade mosquito repellent that works really well.

Shake the bottle and apply it to your body.

Natural remedies for

acid reflux in babies

Soothe a

teething baby • P lace something cold in your baby's mouth, like a cold pacifier, clean wet washcloth, or a solid (not liquid) refrigerated teething toy or ring that can help soothe the gums.

• Try offering your baby a hard, unsweetened teething cracker.

• If your baby is older than six months, you can offer him/her cool water from a sippy cup.

• • • • • •

reastfeed, if possible.

B Keep baby upright after feeding.

Give frequent but small feedings.

Burp often.

Delay playtime after meals.

Avoid tight diapers and clothing.

Home remedy for dry scalp

Mashed bananas Bananas, which are a natural antimicrobial, can be used to treat dry scalp and dandruff.

How to use: Mash/blend a banana with a few tablespoons of coconut or olive oil. Massage the mixture into your scalp and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Thoroughly rinse your hair and style as desired.

How do you get rid of

dark circles under your eyes?

Mix equal amounts of almond oil and vitamin E and then, just before bedtime, gently massage the mixture into the dark circles.

Wash the area with cold water in the morning. Repeat the process daily until the dark circles disappear.

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www.babysandbeyond.co.za

home remedies

DIY

natural nail strengthener 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

eat a small amount of olive oil in a saucepan or microwave until warm.

H Pour the warm oil into a small bowl and make sure it is cool enough to apply to the skin.

Use a cotton swab, coat the entire nail bed and underside of the nail with the oil and let it soak in for 5-10 minutes.

Rinse and dry your nails and leave without polish.

Repeat once a day for two weeks.

Reduce or eliminate

How to get rid of

hiccups

smelly feet

• Breathe into a paper bag.

• Pull your knees up to your chest and lean forward.

• Sip ice-cold water.

• Swallow some granulated sugar.

• Bite on a lemon.

• Hold your breath for a short period of time.

How to get rid of

1

a toothache

Place ice in a resealable plastic bag and cover with a damp towel.

Apply pressure with the cold compress on the swollen area.

3

eep the cold compress on the area for K a few minutes until the pain subsides.

Repeat as necessary.

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2 4

• Wash your feet daily with antibacterial soap.

• Use foot powders.

• Change your shoes frequently.

• Dry your feet properly.

Hasten the healing time

of razor burns • Apply aloe vera gel.

• Apply some ice or a cold pack.

• Moisturise your skin well.

• Use over the counter (OTC) steroid creams.

• Apply an after-shave product.

Get rid of

sunburn quickly • Take a cold shower or apply cool compresses to the sunburnt area.

• Use a moisturiser that contains aloe vera or soy to soothe the skin.

• Drink extra water.

19

back to school

Hassle-free back to school routine Once summer holidays have flown by, parents will shift their focus to getting kids ready for back to school.

A

top tip for making the process less stressful will be by setting up a schedule and working out a routine to help prepare your kids and yourself.

Prep time Have an open conversation with your children about school including activities and goals for the new school year to encourage and create excitement. For kids just starting out their schooling career, let them try on their uniform to help make them comfortable before the big day arrives. With the summer holidays, often routines go out the door so it’s advisable to make adjustments to their bedtime routine in advance to get them on a sleep schedule.

Be budget savvy

Plan ahead If your child is starting at a new school, familiarise yourself in advance with the best routes in order to avoid the traffic rush.

20

Pic credit: Yokico

Hot on the heels of December follows Januaryworry. If possible, try to avoid a last-minute rush and shop in advance and check to see if you can bargain hunt.

Stay in touch To lessen your stress about your child being away from you, obtain a school roster in advance from the school to plan and work out a schedule. Additionally, ensure the school and teacher has all your details so that you can stay informed of your child’s progress.  www.babysandbeyond.co.za

editor's choice – top toys of the year R699.99

fisher-price® Calming Clouds™ Mobile & Soother | Suitable for ages 0-5 months

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Barbie™ Barbie Wellness - Doll | Suitable for ages 13+

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Enchantimals Royal Rolling Carriage | Suitable for ages 3+

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Apples To Apples Party Box | Suitable for ages 8+

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Cozy Deer House Playset | Suitable for ages 3+

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Fisher-Price® Little People® Play House | Suitable for ages 1-5

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Polly Pocket Pet Collectible Locket Asst. | Suitable for ages 4+

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R229.99

Barbie™ Chelsea Core Careers | Suitable for ages 3-7

22

fisher-price® Rainforest Music & Lights Deluxe Gym | Suitable for ages 0-5 months

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editor's choice – top toys of the year R1 349.99

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fisher-price® Laugh & Learn® Sit-to-Stand Giant Activity Book | Suitable for ages 6 months – 3 years

South Africa Local Scrabble | Suitable for ages 10+

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Rock 'em Sock 'em Robots | Suitable for ages 6+

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WWE Slambulance | Suitable for ages 6+

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Thomas & Friends™ Nia™ and the Elephant Set | Suitable for ages 3+

Mega Bloks® PAW Patrol: The Movie Marshall’s City Fire Rescue Set | Suitable for ages 3+

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My Garden Baby berry Butterfly Doll | Suitable for ages 3+

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Peek A Blocks Construction Site | Suitable for ages 1+

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Barbie™ Fast Cast Clinic | Suitable for ages 3+

top toys

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R3 999.99

Thomas & Friends™ Trains & Cranes Super Tower | Suitable for ages 3+

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Imaginext® The Lion's Kingdom Castle™ | Suitable for ages 3+

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breastfeeding

Weaning 101:

how to start solids It’s something to celebrate when your tiny tot tastes something other than formula or breast milk for the first time. But often, the overload of information makes parents fearful of starting solids.

G

o with your gut and take your cues from your kiddie. If they’re old enough and faceplanting into your plate to try to share your lunch, it’s usually a sign they’re ready. Here are some simple tips for a solid start to solids.

Nadia Jansen van Rensburg, co-founder of Rooted Natural and a clinical dietitian with a special interest in paediatric nutrition, says: “We started Rooted Natural because we wanted

children to have a healthy relationship with food right from the get-go. It’s natural for parents to be preoccupied with whether their little ones are eating well. But it can become an unhealthy obsession very easily, which means missing out on the joy of the experience.

“The best advice is to be relaxed and let your baby lead the process.

Repeated exposure of as many tastes, textures, smells and colours as possible.

We eat with all our senses.”

Here van Rensburg answers parents’ most pressing questions when it comes to solids:

26

When should I start solids?

It’s different for every child. From four to six months, infants are developmentally and emotionally ready to start exploring a new method of feeding – and new foods, flavours and textures. Their nutritional needs increase and the introduction of solids helps to optimise growth and brain development. Plus, more energy from food supports their increasingly active bodies as they begin to sit, play and crawl. It’s a wide window period, so take your cues from your little one. They need to be able to sit with minimum support and have good head and neck control.

Children often show you when they’re ready by grabbing at food and sucking their lips or opening their mouths when morsels are nearby.

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breastfeeding

How do I set the scene for success?

It’s a great idea to get into regular feeding rhythms right from the start.

Sit your little one at the table in a chair or in a chair with a clip-on tray and make sure their feet are supported. Avoid screens and any distractions. Try to get them excited about the food – its taste, textures, colours and smells. Positively talking about food is an important part of the process.

Allow them to play as it is a pivotal part of children’s learning process – so let them have fun with their food. That’s how they’ll learn to eat by themselves.

Time it well. Your baby should be rested, hungry and interested; not overly hungry, overtired, stimulated or fed. Importantly, you need to be relaxed as well.

Go with a single flavour at first. Think about starting with vegetables, then progressing to fruit, grains and protein combinations.

Should I do the puree or baby-led weaning approach?

That’s up to you. The more traditional take is for first foods to be smooth, soft purees, then there’s a progression to textured purees and, eventually, whole meals. The latest trends and research are seeing parents include the baby in the meal e.g., if they reach for a whole broccoli stem, let them try it.

There’s no right or wrong. We recommend combining the two methods. This way, you ensure adequacy, but baby also gets to play, participate and explore, which fuels tactile development.

Remember, the bigger the mess, the higher the success.

“Our Rooted Natural brand was designed to bring fun to the feeding process, with wholesome, sugar-, salt- and preservativefree foods that let children play with new tastes and textures.

Healthy kids are happy kids. I’m a dietitian and my co-founder, Kirby, is a professional chef. We combined our love of food to create a range of organic, earth-friendly baby and toddler food that takes the stress out of solids,” van Rensburg says.

“We encourage you to relax and enjoy this new chapter. It’s a beautiful, exciting one. Most importantly, you’ve got this.

You’re a brilliant parent. Go with your gut and learn with your little one.” 

For more information on Rooted Natural, visit www.RootedNatural.co.za or follow on Instagram and Facebook.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

27

breastfeeding

Breastfeeding 101:

When in doubt, reach out The arrival of a new baby is often accompanied by certain expectations – the perfect birth plan, for example, or ideas around the outfit your little bundle of joy will wear going home from the hospital, and visions of breastfeeding calmly and with ease.

However, as most mothers discover, newborns come with surprises.

B

reastfeeding may be one of the most difficult hurdles that many mothers of new babies have to overcome, even when it is not their first child. This is according to Sister Ana Frawley, who owns and runs two mother and baby wellness clinics at Netcare Mulbarton and Netcare Sunward Park hospitals, and who has specialised in lactation for 11 out of her 25 years as a midwife.

“Breastfeeding is a natural process but that does not mean it is instinctual – it is in fact a learned skill, which requires practice. There was a time when girls would grow up observing mothers breastfeeding their children, in families and communities, and such exposure would be educational. However, modern day life is very different, and many women do not have the

opportunity to learn by example in this way, “she explains.

“Furthermore, just as every pregnancy is different, so too is every baby. It is therefore important that mothers manage their expectations and prepare themselves for the strong possibility that they will need help in getting breastfeeding right,” she adds.

It’s baby’s earliest form of communication

“Once you’ve found your groove with breastfeeding, it becomes the most wonderful form of communication between you and your baby, over and above the important nutritional benefits that it provides to their developing bodies. When breastfeeding, you offer your baby the support they need, giving them their first experience of this type of interaction,” says Sister Frawley.

“As time passes, your baby may well use breastfeeding to offer you support in return. I have seen this first-hand in my practice, for example, when a mom who was upset about an unrelated issue was comforted by her little 12-month-old.

He sat next to her as she cried and waited until she was a little calmer, then latched to her breast for just a moment before getting down and exploring the room. This baby was not hungry but was trying to comfort her in the way he was used to being comforted.”

Sister Frawley notes that consulting a lactation specialist from the outset can make the experience far simpler and less stressful. She points out that while there are some women who are fortunate enough to have a smooth start to breastfeeding, many need help and the sooner they get it, the better.

28

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breastfeeding

Am I doing it right?

Sister Frawley says there are three simple guidelines to help first-time mothers with breastfeeding concerns: 1. Baby needs to feed 8-12 times in 24 hours.

2. There should be a minimum of six wet nappies in 24 hours.

3. There should be two to three poo nappies in 24 hours within the first six weeks of birth, thereafter the poo nappies become less frequent – up to once in seven to 10 days is considered normal.

More frequently than this is no cause for concern, provided the stool has a granular or seed-like appearance, as with diarrhoea there are no ‘seeds’ in the stool, in which case medical attention should be sought.

When to consult a lactation specialist

Sister Frawley suggests getting help if you are having any of the following experiences: • Sore or sensitive nipples while breastfeeding, or misshapen nipples after baby delatches.

• Milk not coming in or coming in late.

• Baby not gaining sufficient weight (between 140g to 200g per week).

• Milk not draining completely, which can lead to mastitis – a painful infection in the breast.

How a lactation specialist can help

“You will need about three sessions or so, with the first session most likely being the longest. The specialist will obtain a detailed history from the mom, including her psychological wellbeing.

“The specialist also does an examination of mom’s breasts, as well as a head-to-toe examination of the baby. The main focus is on getting baby to latch correctly so the specialist needs to find the cause of the breastfeeding issue and work out a manageable care plan with the mom and her support people for her to achieve her goals. Sometimes there may be other factors to be considered, such as additional therapies that baby may need.

“It is important that baby is well positioned and aligned, that all or almost all of the nipple and areola is taken into baby’s mouth and that there is no pain or discomfort whatsoever to the mother while baby is feeding. Breastfeeding is a process that requires patience, perseverance and practice. When baby is latching correctly the breasts will naturally produce the amount of milk the baby needs.

“There can, however, be certain conditions that may prevent mom from producing a sufficient supply for exclusive breastfeeding, such as diabetes type 1, obesity and polycystic ovarian syndrome, for example.

“All of this will be discussed during the consultations with your lactation specialist, who will also touch on the importance of a balanced diet, plenty of liquids – at least two litres per day, not including soft drinks – and resting while baby sleeps to ensure adequate volumes of milk,” Sister Frawley explains.

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29

breastfeeding

Family support

Sister Frawley notes that mothers taking care of new babies need a great deal of support.

“Moms who are struggling with the mental and emotional load of taking care of a new baby need ongoing support and encouragement from those close to them. A new mother’s morale is very important and can affect the breastfeeding experience, both for her and baby.

“Partners and other family members wishing to be of help can offer kind words about how well the mom is doing and can assist with practical things like bringing her some healthy snacks and a glass of water while she is feeding, for example. If she or the baby is really having a difficult moment, kindly offer to give her a break, even if just for a few minutes, so that she can take a breath. ‘Constructive criticism’ is not helpful at this stage,” she says.

Covid-19 and breastfeeding

According to Sister Frawley, the ongoing advice to breastfeeding women is that they should continue to breastfeed even if Covid-19 positive, as this continued contact and nutrition is beneficial for the baby and has not shown to be dangerous to infants.  Looking for a medical appointment? Netcare appointmed™ will make appointments for you with specialists practising at Netcare hospitals, GPs and dentists at Medicross medical and dental centres, and specialists at Akeso mental health facilities. Simply request an appointment online at www.netcare.co.za/ Request-a-medical-appointment or phone Netcare appointmed™ on 0860 555 565, Mondays to Fridays between 08:00 and 17:00.

Sister Ana Frawley, who has specialised in lactation for 11 out of her 25 years as a midwife.

30

To find out more about the services offered through Netcare hospitals and other of the Group’s facilities, please visit www.netcare.co.za or contact the Netcare customer service centre either by email at customer.service@netcare.co.za or phone 0860 NETCARE (0860 638 2273). Note that the centre operates Mondays to Fridays from 08:00 to 16:00.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

child development

Reading to children today

paves the path for their development in the future

By Jonathan Drake, Head of Accessories at The Core Group

Raising your child to love reading is one of the most wonderful gifts you can give them. While improving a child’s imagination is one of the benefits of reading to children from as early as the day they are born, there are also other significant benefits to children listening to stories that will help them throughout their school careers and beyond.

32

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child development

W

hile more than half of parents do not read to their children before the age of three, according to research from Nielsen which found that 45% of 0-2 year-olds are read to daily or nearly every day increasing to 58% of 3-4 year olds. By the time children reach 5-7 years, this figure drops to 44%, which is the most important time to be reading to children.

According to research on children’s brain development, by two years old a child’s brain is as active as an adult’s and by age three it is more than twice as active as an adult’s brain1.

Further, as cognitive processes develop rapidly in the first few years of life and by age three approximately 85% of the brain is developed2. As such it is never too early to start reading to children and promote early development.

abulary

Speech development and voc

elop their speech. is the first step to helping dev ries sto to n dre chil ng you g Exposin wide variety of read, children are exposed to a By listening to adults speak and dren listen to chil m to develop their speech. As sounds and words that help the used and is e ve connections to how languag stories, their brains make cogniti uage. often not used in spoken lang exposes them to words that are 3 states that there is early language exposure which on dy stu a by ted por sup is s Thi osure to adult uage development and early exp lang n wee bet ship tion rela e init a def through primary acts children’s language ability language, which positively imp dren between wit ortance of interacting h chil imp the s sise pha em dy stu school. The explosion. It states ich is the period of a language the ages of 18 to 24 months wh mpts enriched n enriched vocabulary and pro that reading aloud gives childre interactions.

Cognitive ability

Cognitive ability refers to the way in which we perceive our world an d experiences and is the ability to think and un derstand. Stories expo se children to different top ics, issues, experiences, and infor mation throu gh the characters in the story. This backgro und infor mation gives greater context to the world around them an d is used to help them ma ke sense of what they see, hear and read.

This knowledge helps children develop problem-solving and decision-making skills as stories aid children with infor mation processing, reasoning, language development, attention span and me mory.

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33

child development Listening and comprehension skills

When children listen to stories they develop their comprehension and listening skills. Not only are these skills important to help children to learn to read, but these are also important skills that they will use when learning at school. According to Scholastic, listening is a skill that children must learn before they can learn to read themselves.

Further, when children are listening to a story, they learn to sit still, develop longer attention spans and develop memory-retention skills which are all important skills that will benefit them at school in the later years.

Audiobooks embellish storytelling Often a parent’s busy schedule prevents them from finding time to read to their children daily and as a result, their children miss out on the opportunity to gain the benefits of this much-loved past-time that will shape the future of their development and their school careers.

However, today there are many options available for parents to engage their children in storytelling on their own. For example, audiobooks provide entertainment value to children while engaging them in stories and providing many of the benefits of reading to children.

According to Scholastic4, many audiobooks include interesting sound effects, music, and multiple narrators, that embellish their storytelling with silly voices and dramatics which are especially motivating and fun for young children. These stories reinforce the pleasure of reading rather than the skill while helping children to understand narrative structure, language use and how to convey meaning.

To provide a safe listening environment for young children the Yoto Player is a screen-free device, which gives children control of their listening experience and access to a range of well-known and loved stories from various authors as Yoto has secured partnerships and content deals with trusted household names such as LEGO and Disney as well as licenses with Penguin Random House, Abbey Road Studios, Sony Music, HarperCollins, Hachette, children to a world of ces odu Pan Macmillan and more to bring intr that form plat io aud an Born in the UK, Yoto is s and radio. Founders cast children stories from Julia Donaldson, pod cts, effe nd sou s, vitie acti stories, music, educational ciples to create prin Enid Blyton and more.  sori ntes Mo by ired insp e Ben Drury and Filip Denker wer es; they called selv them trol con ly safe ld cou a screen-free audio device that kids ion of The Yoto Player is available from io that will inspire the next generat it Yoto Player. In a bid to offer aud mindfulness, tes selected Toys R Us and iStore stores mo pro that tent con in g stin is inve independent creative minds, Yoto or online from istore.co.za and dren. meditation, and sleep among chil Takealot.com. ve losi exp d nce erie exp has o Yot er in early 2020, Since launching the new Yoto Play with some of panding content library is packed r-ex eve growth. Yoto’s extensive and ay Tree (Trilogy), tent including The Magic Far Aw con ’s dren chil test grea ld’s wor the old names to be (Trilogy), and many more househ The Gruffalo, The Wishing Chair REFERENCE released.

1. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED418770 2. http://nieer.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/ uding incl rds awa ral seve for ted rtlis been sho specialsummary_rev2011_02_2.pdf Now available worldwide, Yoto has and ign, 3. https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/ , Dezeen, Junior Des AD D& , Co. t Fas 77, e Cor A, IDE content/142/4/e20182234 Design Week, ISDA November d in several Top Product lists. In 4. https://www.scholastic.com/parents/books-andMother & Baby while being include 0. ons of 202 reading/reading-resources/developing-readingof TIME Magazine’s Best Inventi skills/literacy-benefits-listening.html 2020, Yoto Player was named one

34

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

contraception

What every woman should

know about ‘the pill’

Oral contraceptives, commonly known as ‘the pill’, are among the medicines women use most frequently. Although most well known as a convenient form of birth control, this type of medication is also often prescribed to help women with a variety of other health issues. A GP and pharmacist share their perspectives on what every woman should know.

“T

he pill is not only for birth control. It can also be used for prevention or treatment of acne, reducing menstrual pain and symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome, as well as regulating a woman’s menstrual periods,” says pharmacist, Prudence Masemola of Medipost Pharmacy, South Africa’s largest national courier pharmacy.

“Oral contraceptives are prescribed to help control physiological hormonal mechanisms in the body, which is why the pill can be effective for menstrual cycle control, severe painful or heavy periods known as dysmenorrhoea, polycystic ovarian syndrome and endometriosis.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

It is important to note that these conditions must be managed by a medical practitioner,” says Dr Sharmistha Heeralal, a consultant on the Contro partner doctor network.

Masemola adds that most oral contraceptive pills are packaged with a daily calendar to help women keep track of their medication in relation to their monthly cycle. This includes placebo pills, often in a different colour, for a few

consecutive days each month to allow the body to release menstrual flow.

“For special occasions, such as a holiday or sports event, women can safely skip their period by not taking the placebo pills and continuing with the active pills instead. Although this should not be done too regularly, it is a very convenient option for those times when you have activities planned that would otherwise be hampered by menstruation,” she says.

35

contraception

As with any medication, everyone’s experience differs and there are possible side-effects although many will not feel any symptoms at all.

Many options for family planning When it comes to birth control, there are many options available to couples other than oral contraceptives.

“Condoms offer the additional benefit of protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Abstaining from sex is the only fully reliable option for preventing pregnancy and transmission of STIs, including HIV,” Masemola says.

“Injectable contraceptives, which are administered at two- or three-monthly intervals depending on which type is prescribed, only contain progesterone alternatives. This is in contrast to the contraceptive pill, which involves both oestrogen and progesterone hormones, and prevents pregnancy more effectively because it includes an additional barrier to falling pregnant,” adds Dr Heeralal.

For longer-term birth control, women can also consider having an intra-uterine device (IUD) fitted, which remains in the uterus, or an implant device, which is inserted into the upper arm and releases small amounts of progesterone to prevent pregnancy. Both of these options can provide up to five years of protection.

“Once the individual feels their family is complete, the couple could consider more permanent surgical options. For women, a procedure called tubal ligation seals the fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy. A less invasive procedure available to men, known as a vasectomy, prevents the release of sperm to avoid unwanted pregnancy,” Dr Heeralal notes.

36

Possible side-effects and warnings As with any medication, everyone’s experience differs and there are possible side-effects although many will not feel any symptoms at all.

The most commonly experienced are nausea, some gastrointestinal disturbances, headaches, weight gain, inter-cyclical spotting or ‘breakthrough bleeding’, pre-menstrual symptoms such as breast tenderness, and missed menstrual periods. Most side effects pass after the first two weeks, however, if symptoms persist, the woman should contact her prescribing doctor.

“Any woman who is considering oral contraceptives should also be aware that there is a very small risk of serious side effects relating to conditions caused by blood clots, known as

thromboembolic diseases, including potentially increased risk of stroke.

Medicine package leaflets contain details of potential risks,” Masemola says.

Pregnancy must be ruled out before a woman starts taking the pill. Women who have a history of thromboembolic disorders, such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolisms, undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding, or suffer frequent headaches should make sure their treating doctor is aware of these factors, as this could mean the pill is not the right choice for them. The same applies to women with known or suspected breast or ovarian cancer and oestrogen-related disorders, or a family history of these conditions.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

contraception Prescription and compliance Oral contraceptives are classified as schedule three medicines in South Africa, which means that they are only available with a doctor’s prescription.

“It must be noted that compliance is a key factor to this method of contraception being effective. The pill needs to be taken every day, around the same time in order for it to be optimally effective,” Dr Heeralal says.

Contro network doctors can prescribe sexual health medication, including the contraceptive pill, patch and vaginal ring, online via virtual consultations. Opting to have your medicines, such as oral contraceptives, delivered by Medipost Pharmacy means there is no need to visit a pharmacy and wait in queues.

As part of the Contro service, scripts are automatically renewed without the need to consult a doctor in person each time. The partnership with Medipost Pharmacy ensures continuous and hassle-free reliable delivery of your medicines each month at no additional cost, so it is easy to adhere to treatment. As always, patient privacy is paramount so there is no indication on the outer packaging of what the medicine parcels contain, and confidentiality is guaranteed.

“Remember that once you decide to stop taking oral contraceptives, it can sometimes take a few months for your monthly cycle to return to normal and allowing for conception to take place. If pregnancy is not desired, alternative contraceptive methods should be started when you stop taking the pill,” Masemola concludes. 

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Prudence Masemola of Medipost Pharmacy

37

editor's choice baby R149.99

Swimwear Set | Available at Mr Price

R390

Bug Box & Accessories | Available online at www.envirokid.co.za

R99.99

R69.99

Frilled Romper | Available at Mr Price

Shorts | Available at Mr Price

R38.50

Skimmelberg Organic Rooibos Tea for Babies (carton of 20 Tea Bags, carton weight 40g in total) | Available online at www.skimmelberg.co.za and www.takealot.com

R195

Rainbow Suncatcher Mobile | Available online at www.envirokid.co.za

R220

Wooden Baby Books | Available online at www.envirokid.co.za

R84.95

Bonnycare 100ml | Available at all leading pharmacies

R179.95

Xcel Kids 100ml | Available at all leading pharmacies

38

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editor's choice baby From

R250

A3 Floral Rabbit Wall Art Print | Available online at www.mapetite.co.za

R200

R599

Wooden Bear | Available online at www.mapetite.co.za

Leap Frog Instant Camera | Available at all leading retailers & online at www.takealot.com

R390

Rope Kit | Available online at www.envirokid.co.za

R499

Mamalous Birth Pillow | Available online at www.mamalous.co.za

R59.95

Lansinoh 24 Disposable Breast Pads | Available at Clicks, Dis-Chem, independent pharamcies & online at www.azatimix.com

R144.95 – R195.95

Septogard (available in 100ml & 200ml) | Available at all leading pharmacies

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HPA® Lanolin Nipple Cream 40ml | Available at Clicks, Dis-Chem, independent pharamcies & online at www.azatimix.com

R599

Leap Frog Lullaby Lights Lion | Available at all leading retailers & online at www.takealot.com

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

baby

39

eye care

Caring for young eyes Your child’s eyes are special. In the early years, vision helps them find out about the world around them, about their home, about you. Later, as they go through school, their eyesight lets them learn and discover – in fact, about 80% of what is taught in schools is presented visually. Being able to see clearly is therefore vitally important for your child’s overall development.

M

any very young children have their eyesight assessed as part of routine developmental checks. While these are important, they aren’t as thorough as a complete eye test by a qualified optometrist. It is recommended that your child has their eyes tested every 24 months from the age of six, unless there is a need for them to be examined at a younger age.

Testing before your son/daughter goes into full-time education is vital as not being able to see clearly can be confusing in a busy classroom, and poor eyesight can cause learning and behavioural problems. This is especially true for young children, who may find it difficult to explain the difficulties they are having with their eyesight. They may not even be aware they have a problem at all.

Routine early eye testing also means that any problems they may have can be identified early and the sooner vision problems are detected, the better the outcome. Conditions such as squinting and amblyopia (lazy eye) can be treated more effectively if they are picked up earlier, which could make a world of difference to your child.

Tell-tale signs that your child may have vision problems include: • Straining their eyes, tilting their head or closing one eye to read, watch TV or see better.

• Losing their place while reading, or using a finger to guide their eyes.

• Consistently sitting too close to the TV or holding a book too close.

• Avoiding activities which require near vision, such as reading or homework, or distance vision such as participating in sports or other recreational activities.

• Avoiding using a computer or tablet because it hurts their eyes.

• Sensitivity to light and/or excessive tearing.

• Falling behind in school.

• Complaining of headaches or tired eyes and frequent eye-rubbing.

• The presence of a ‘turn’ in the eye or a misdirection of the eyes.

• A ‘white reflex’ in photographs. This is similar in appearance to red-eye, except it’s white. It is extremely serious – if you notice it, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Having regular eye tests is the best option. Spec-Savers offers children’s eye care promotions at various stages throughout the year, making caring for your child’s eye health easier and more affordable. Visit www.specsavers. co.za for more details or enquire at your nearest Spec-Savers store. 

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1 Buy 1 Get

education

How to get your child

‘big school’ ready

For parents and children, the step up into Grade 1 is a time of excitement and great anxiety. How do you know if your child is ready for this step? Firstly, parents should be guided by qualified teachers to assess a child’s readiness to begin, and then take the steps to start formal schooling.

S

chool readiness is a measure of how prepared a child is to succeed at school and involves two types of readiness: a readiness to learn (which is continuous) and a readiness for school (which is associated with a fixed age).

School readiness depends on both emotional maturity and scholastic ability. It is split into different areas and, although these areas are separate, they do interact with and reinforce each other. Children need to be developed across these key five areas.

1 Cherish moments spent with your child and enjoy their school journey with them.

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Physical and motor development • Gross motor, for example, running, skipping, standing on one leg.

• Fine motor, for example, comfortable using a pair of scissors, successfully doing zips and buttons, is able to use cutlery.

• Perceptual development, both visual and auditory.

• Taking care of themselves, for example, manages to go to the toilet by themselves. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

education

2

Emotional and social development • A child who is emotionally well-adjusted has a significantly greater chance of early school success.

• Gets along with peers, can interact within a group or shows an interest in other children, willing to help a friend.

• Can express feelings and needs.

• Can share.

• Can sit still, for example, long enough to listen to a story.

• Can concentrate on a task for a reasonable amount of time.

• Able to deal with frustration in an acceptable way.

4

Language development (includes literacy, listening, speaking and vocabulary) • Should be able to communicate effectively in their home language.

• Be able to sequence (correctly retell a story or a set of events).

• Identify similarities and differences between objects.

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3

Cognitive development • Can make independent decisions and follow through.

• Has ideas of their own.

• Can follow simple directions or instructions.

• Shows an interest in learning.

5

Emotional maturity • Independence.

• Reasonable control over emotions.

• Basic problem-solving skills.

• Confidence.

• Shows responsibility.

• Handles separation well.

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education Jenny Trollip, Head of Department at St Martin’s Junior Preparatory Phase in the south of Johannesburg, encourages parents to begin getting their child into a routine in preparation for Grade 1. St Martin's is well-known for their smaller classes, passionate teachers, individual attention, and holistic education. Trollip offers the following advice for establishing a routine.

Establish a morning routine

Your child should follow the same sequence of activities each morning so that it becomes an automatic chain of tasks. This leads to a sense of independence on the part of your child.

A suggested morning routine could include the following: wake up, breakfast, ablutions, get dressed, collect school bag and lunch, walk to the car.

Set up an evening routine

The aim of this routine is to calm your child. They can relax knowing that they

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are prepared for the next day at school.

Ideas for this routine could include taking out the school uniform, bath time, quiet play with no screen time, story time and finally bedtime. A Grade 1 child should be in bed between 19:30 and 20:00.

Allocate a homework space

Your child will require a place to do their homework where distractions are limited. Have specific stationery available so that they can complete the given tasks properly. Create a homework routine, with a specific time, sequence of activities to be followed and end off with packing the school suitcase. Homework in Grade 1 needs to be supervised by an adult who can create a positive environment.

Prepare a healthy snack box

Discuss nutritious options and treats with your child. Prepare a menu together. Take into consideration that these snacks will have to sustain your child for at least six hours at school.

Communication is key When your child starts Grade 1, make sure that as parents you are on the school WhatsApp and ClassDojo, or whatever communication mechanism is used at the school so that you know what is happening and do not miss out on special days.

In addition to establishing a routine, parents can take time to prepare their children for this new phase in their lives by: • reading to their child; • teaching their child songs, nursery rhymes and poems; • take your children on excursions to, for example, museums; • make regular opportunities for play-dates; and • play games so that your child starts recognising colours, numbers, and letters.

Cherish moments spent with your child and enjoy their school journey with them. Grade 1 is exciting, and memories made in this year should be filled with laughter and enjoyment. 

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

health

Treat your aching joints:

5 tips that will reduce your joint pain and help you live a pain free life Joint pain is more common than you may realise. From a dull ache to a stabbing pain, it’s a condition that affects almost everyone at some stage and generally gets worse as we age.

C

atherine Clark, the owner and founder of The Harvest Table, says that athletes are often the people who experience the worst joint pain.

“Most adrenaline junkies accept a level of joint discomfort as they believe it’s a result of strenuous exercise. In truth though, if athletes get the right nutrition their joint pain may be alleviated,” says Clark.

Joint pain can affect any part of your body, from your ankles and feet through to your knees, hips, shoulders and hands. It’s usually caused by inflammation, the body’s normal immune response to an injury or infection that results in painful swelling around the joint.

“Whether you exercise or not, the great news is that it’s easy to manage painful joints with some small changes to your lifestyle,” Clark adds.

Clark's top tips to reduce joint pain are:

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health 1

Stop eating gluten

Studies have shown that people who are gluten sensitive can have an inflammatory reaction to the proteins found in wheat, which causes their immune systems to jump into action. The resultant inflammation affects the body’s organs and soft tissue, which leads to intermittent joint pain.

If you think that you may be gluten sensitive, try cutting out all wheat products for two weeks and see if this reduces your joint pain (and other symptoms such as bloating). There should be a massive difference within just a couple of days, and you’ll never look back.

2

Eat more inf lammation fighting foods

We all have levels of inflammation in our bodies but when it gets out of hand, it can impact your health. Your body will send you signals when this happens and one of the most common is aching joints.

Fortunately, you’ve already got most of the best inflammation-busting basics in your refrigerator and if you eat an overall healthy diet that’s high in fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, fish and healthy oils – all of which have natural antioxidants – this will help reduce levels of inflammation and leave you feeling better in no time.

3

Introduce bone broth

Bone broth is a meeting of ancient wisdom and modern nutrition. Made from slow-cooked beef bones, it’s low in calories but rich in the amino acids and essential minerals our bodies and bones need to stay strong and healthy.

Bone broth is readily available in a powder form that delivers a whopping nine grams of protein per teaspoon. It also tastes very mild, so you can add it to anything, from smoothies to stews, to ensure your whole family gets the nutrition they need.

But the proof, especially for athletes, is in performance and according to Anton Cater, an ultramarathon athlete who used to suffer from joint pain, it’s made a world of difference.

He discovered bone broth in 2020 and on completing a recent 100km race, he said he hadn’t experienced any muscle or joint pain. Cater attributes this to his daily afternoon bone broth snack, saying that it’s now a staple in their household that the whole family loves.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

4

Manage your weight

Joints in your body’s lower half, particularly your knees and hips, bear most of your weight and if you are you are carrying a couple of extra kilograms, this can contribute to achy, swollen and stiff joints. The more weight on your joints, the more wear and tear on the cartilage. So, protect your hips and knees in the long-term by lightening your load.

5

Exercise

Another way to reduce joint pain is through regular exercise. Light strength training can fortify the muscles around joints, providing better support. Your muscles act as shock absorbers so if you can get them toned, you may have less pain.

Start with swimming or water aerobics as this is a great way to exercise. The water provides resistance, and you’ll activate muscles without burdening your joints. And it’s great fun too!

When you are used to living with sore joints, being pain free can be life changing. If you follow these lifestyle changes though and still have no relief, Clark advises that you consult a medical professional as there are many other, more serious conditions that can cause joint pain. 

Harvest Table has a wide range of collagen products that are available from www.harvesttable.co.za. Follow Catherine on Instagram: @whole_healthy_me.

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health

Should improving the air quality in your child’s room be a priority?

While a lot of thought went into planning and decorating your baby’s nursery or toddler’s room, renovations can introduce many pollutants into the air. Materials such as paint, new carpeting, flooring, wall covering, wood products, glues, varnishes, curtaining, and soft furnishings are all culprits when it comes to omitting volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which may have serious short- and long-term health consequences for your little one.

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health

B

ianca Leonard, Marketing Manager for Solenco SA, a trusted leader in air treatment and lifestyle products says: “As parents, nothing is more important than the health of your child, especially in its developmental years. Often, air quality is something that is overlooked, both outdoors and indoors, but which, in this day and age, deserves a lot more attention.”

We’ve heard the words purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers thrown around, but the questions that spring to mind are, “What is the difference between these devices and how do they improve the air quality in my space?”.

Leonard explains that air purifiers come with different types of filters that eliminate microbes that cause allergies, asthma, and other respiratory

complications and which also eliminate odours and airborne chemicals.

A dehumidifier on the other hand focuses on removing moisture from the air, like a clever vacuum cleaner. It sucks in the air, removes all the moisture, and then breathes dry air out again. A humidifier adds moisture to the dry air.

Both have benefits in different practical applications.

How the air quality could impact your child’s living environment Below Leonard outlines some of the applications of these products and how the air quality could impact your child’s living environment.

1. Help your baby sleep better We know that newborns are susceptible to mucus build-up, which often leads to a restless night with not much sleep.

Humidifiers provide direct protection against dry air, to create optimal breathing conditions that will loosen the build-up of mucus and allow babies to sleep more comfortably.

“While keeping the sniffles at bay and helping baby breathe easier, your child will experience improved sleep as humidifiers such as the Meaco and Stylies ranges from Solenco are not only powerful, efficient and energysaving, but super-quiet as well,“ advises Leonard.

2. Your baby’s health Elevated pollution levels cause symptoms in sensitive groups like infants and asthmatics such as: high sinus risk; allergy risk; and respiratory risk. An air purifier with the ability to eliminate harmful microbes through a HEPA filter can put your mind at ease.

However, Leonard cautions that there are different grades of HEPA filters so when looking to buy an air purifier be sure to check the grade of the filter. As an example, the Solenco air purifiers www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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health

have the H13 Medical Grade HEPA filter which is of better quality than your standard HEPA filters.

No matter which part of the country you live in, air pollution is a general challenge, and the burning of harmful gasses takes place everywhere. Due to the growing concern around air quality, Solenco has introduced a live Air Quality Index on their website, where you can immediately assess how safe your air is in your area (provided you grant access to your location).

“We hope this new feature will create greater awareness of our surroundings and how they may be impacting us as individuals and our families,” says Leonard.

3. Decorating and redecorating Be sure to choose a non-toxic paint that won’t flake or give off harmful fumes when decorating your baby nursery or toddler room. When choosing a safe paint for the nursery, ask for a waterbased product. It should contain zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

These paints were designed specifically for those with allergies, asthma, and chemical sensitivities.

4. Mould Mould is one of those annoying things that seem to appear out of nowhere. It leaves horrible marks on clothing and surfaces, and smells bad too. Mould on your baby’s clothes may cause skin irritation and rashes.

“I’ve had great success with Solenco’s Mini Cupboard Dehumidifier. Its removes moisture/humidity, mould, mildew, and bad odour from cupboards, wardrobes, cars, and other confined spaces. It is perfect for spaces where a portable dehumidifier is not practical,” says Leonard.

5. Help your baby breathe easier Whether your baby or toddler is

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showing signs of allergies or asthma, or you simply want to be proactive, using a high-efficiency air purifier in their room is an essential preventative practice.

Some parents worry that if their baby's rooms are too clean, the babies will not develop natural immunities required for general health. When it comes to airborne particles, the argument does not quite hold up. Inhaling dust, pollens, and mould spores are not only bad for adults with healthy systems, but especially for babies with developing systems.

“The unfortunate reality is that we live in a chemical heavy, pollution ridden environment with significant climate change challenges, and that means we can't just purely rely on regular home cleaning anymore, especially with our little ones in the equation,” concludes Leonard. 

For more information on the range of Solenco products and their benefits visit www.solencosa.co.za or email info@solencosa.co.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Caring for every breath your baby takes DuoBaby 2 in 1 compressor nebuliser with integrated nasal aspirator

health

Proactive healthcare behaviour can save women’s lives Healthcare professionals are cautioning South African women not to skip their regular check-ups in light of the ongoing pandemic. While many are postponing a visit to their doctor for anything that is not immediately uncomfortable or noticeably concerning, the risk of undiagnosed illness increases.

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T

his is according to Dr Emmanuel Majachani, a specialist gynaecologist practising at Netcare Sunninghill Hospital, who notes that by skipping regular screenings women are in fact putting their health at risk, particularly when it comes to highly prevalent and serious illnesses, such as cervical cancer.

“Cervical cancer is the second most common type of cancer and the leading cause of cancer related death in South African women. However, it need not be a death sentence, as it is highly treatable if detected in its early stages through a simple pap smear. The lack of regular screening is what has caused this terrible statistic to become an avoidable reality for so many women out there,” he says.

“Furthermore, cervical cancer can largely be prevented by having the HPV vaccine earlier on in life. We are well equipped to not only treat but also to avert this devastating illness, however we need proactive thinking and behaviour to do so,” he adds.

HPV a clear cause

Dr Majachani points out that while it is not always known what leads to cancer when it comes to cancer of the cervix – the passage to the womb – the human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause.

The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) cites high risk strains of HPV as causing up to 70% of cervical cancers, while early diagnosis and treatment of pre-cancerous lesions prevent up to 80% of cervical cancers in high resource countries, where regular cervical cancer screening is routine.

“HPV is a very common virus that most people will come into contact within the course of their lives. Certain strains of HPV are transmitted sexually, and some of these present a particularly www.babysandbeyond.co.za

high risk for cervical cancer. In South Africa, types 16 and 18 are particularly dangerous,” explains Dr Majachani.

“Unfortunately, women with HPV who do not go for a regular pap smear would not know that they have the virus unless they develop a secondary condition, such as genital warts. These warts can occur externally, in which case you would notice them, but they can also occur internally. Treatment may require surgery, depending on the size of the warts, but topical creams or gels containing immune modulators help your immune system to fight the virus in that area and will treat the warts effectively.

“Perhaps more importantly, however, is that once you know you have HPV it becomes much easier to manage the risk.

Women with high risk strains of HPV should go for a pap smear every year.

All other women should start having pap smears at the age of 18 and should go every one to three years, depending on the advice of their healthcare practitioner. Pap smears involve taking a sample of cervical cells and are quick

to do but may be a bit uncomfortable for some women,” he says.

HPV vaccination an important form of protection

Further to regular screening, vaccination provides significant protection against HPV and therefore protection against cervical cancer, notes Dr Majachani.

He says that the HPV vaccine can be given between 10 and 26 years of age, and preferably to young women who are not yet sexually active, as it is then most effective.

“Young women who are sexually active can still receive the vaccine, however, and if the results of a pap smear indicate that a woman within these age groups has abnormal cells, we can remove them and there is still a benefit of receiving the vaccine at that point. For women who are older than 26, the benefit is minimal, and the vaccine is therefore not recommended beyond this point.

“Other forms of protection against sexually transmitted HPV include using a condom, as the virus is transmitted through genital contact,” he adds.

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health Encouraging communities to vaccinate young girls

While conversations around sexually transmitted diseases remain a sensitive subject for many, parents of young girls can be reassured that allowing their daughters to receive this potentially life-saving vaccine at a younger age before they are sexually active is a highly responsible decision, in Dr Majachani’s view. Furthermore, the HPV vaccine can simply be administered at a local pharmacy.

“As a gynaecologist and obstetrician, I know all too well the devastating effects that cervical cancer can have in a woman’s life, and just how tragic it is when it has been caused by a common virus that is so easy to protect against. So important is this healthcare intervention that the Department of Health’s HPV School Vaccination Programme has been rolled out nationally to help young girls understand the benefits of the vaccine and to encourage its wide use across our nation’s communities,” he says.

Cervical cancer and what it means “Early stages of cervical cancer will not display any symptoms,” says Dr Majachani. “This is another reason for having a pap smear done regularly, so that any cancerous cells can be detected early, and treatment can begin. Those who are in the later stages of the illness may experience abnormal bleeding between periods or changes such as heavier or longer periods, pain or bleeding after sexual intercourse, bleeding after menopause, unusual vaginal discharge and pelvic pain. However, it becomes much more difficult to treat the illness by the time symptoms are apparent.

“The treatment decisions will depend on the stage of the cancer; however, all patients can expect to undergo at least some form of surgery to have a biopsy taken. It may then be advisable that a trachelectomy is conducted, whereby cancerous tissue is removed by amputating the cervix. This procedure is normally done to preserve fertility in cervical cancer patients.

“Alternatively, a hysterectomy may be performed, and the total removal of the uterus will take place. Chemotherapy and radiation are the other methods of treatment that may be included in later stages of the illness,” Dr Majachani says.

Dr Majachani notes that aside from having HPV, being HIV positive can put women at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer, as can poor lifestyle choices, such as obesity, lack of physical activity, excessive alcohol intake and an unhealthy diet.

“While cancer treatment has advanced dramatically it is simply not worth taking the risk of skipping routine screenings or of avoiding the HPV vaccine in younger years. We as healthcare professionals wish nothing more than to see our patients take charge of their health and make it a priority so that unnecessary tragedy can be avoided,” he concludes. 

Dr Majachani, specialist gynaecologist at Netcare Sunninghill Hospital

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health

Coping with the care

of an unwell child

Cancer, heart disease or a debilitating injury do not usually feature in the world of playdates, sports days and bedtime stories – the world of children. Yet for some parents, having to face a long-term medical condition that threatens the wellbeing of their child, and finding a way to cope, is a difficult reality.

D

r Terri Henderson, a child psychiatrist practising at Netcare Akeso Kenilworth, says that knowledge and communication are essential components in such a family’s mental health toolkit.

“As a parent, your greatest concern is the health and safety of your child. Finding out that this precious life – which you treasure above your own – is at risk, brings on a range of emotions that are quite normal under such distressing circumstances,” says Dr Henderson.

Expect a tidal wave of emotion

“The primary, most dominant emotion is shock. There is also going to be confusion and trying to make sense of why this has happened to your child. Naturally there will be a period of anger too, as all your expectations for your family’s future have now been turned upside down,” explains Dr Henderson.

“Eventually there will be a certain amount of acceptance as the family tries to adapt, although ongoing distress is to be expected. Dramatic changes to daily family life may include the need for one parent to stay with the child whilst the child is receiving treatment in hospital, or to care for the child at home, for example. Difficult medical decisions may need to be made and the financial implications of the situation can be a major additional stressor.”

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health

Exercise your right to know

According to Dr Henderson, the severity of the emotional experience will depend heavily on the communication, support and explanations provided by the treating medical team.

“Knowledge is power. Having a good understanding of the full picture about your child’s condition, treatment options and prognosis is essential, and you have a right to ask the medical team treating your child for information,” Dr Henderson emphasises.

Dimakatso Motiang-Ngoveni, a clinical psychologist at Netcare Akeso Arcadia, points out that further to this, parents and guardians need to know they are in fact part of the team providing medical care to their child, as their presence and support are critical for the wellbeing of the child.

“It is important for parents to engage the healthcare professionals in communicating to their child when procedures are being done, for example, and to allow room for the child to ask questions too,” says Motiang-Ngoveni.

Maintaining a sense of normality

“Keeping things normal as far as possible provides some stability for the family. If a child with a serious medical condition is realistically able to participate in family events and outings, then the whole family should be together on such occasions. To break the family down into separate units is not a recipe for success, as the child in question will then end up feeling as though they are the cause of separation,” says Dr Henderson.

“If a child is unable to walk, for example, then the family should go for a drive in the car together on a regular basis, and family game nights at home can also be a good way to ensure that there is family time in the mix, amongst everyone’s individual lives.”

Talking with your child and his or her siblings “When discussing the situation with your child and his or her siblings, there are many aspects that need to be considered and which may not seem obvious.

“It is common for children in this situation to feel anger and resentment towards others or themselves. They may also fear having brought their condition about by something they did or said. It is therefore important to reassure children from the outset that they are not responsible,” says Motiang-Ngoveni.

Dr Henderson notes that the child’s reaction to the situation will depend entirely on what they are told and how it is communicated to them. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

“Without any communication, they are likely to feel overwhelmed, afraid and may be wondering if they will ever recover, ever get to go home and be with their family again. They might be fearful of medical procedures and going to hospital, and they may become quiet and reserved.

They may also feel lonely.

“If the child has siblings, they too will be experiencing unsettling emotions and may be wondering if they might also get sick or if their brother or sister and parent staying at the hospital will ever come back. They will also have practical concerns, such as ‘Who is going to make my lunch?’, for example.

“In communicating with the child and siblings, it can be beneficial for parents

or guardians to jot down some notes in advance. A simple, clear and ageappropriate explanation is what is required at this stage. Reassurance throughout conversations is important, letting your child and his or her siblings know that the doctors are doing everything they can and that while it may be a difficult time ahead, mom and dad are here,” says Dr Henderson.

The specialists advise that it is important to let the affected child and siblings know what changes may be taking place in their family life so they know what to expect, and that keeping them abreast of any updates and regularly reminding them that they can ask questions also helps them to feel included and considered.

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health It’s ok not to be ok

“Most parents in this situation will feel a sense of guilt or shame and wonder what they could have done differently to have prevented their child’s medical condition or injuries caused by, for example, a bicycle or motor accident,” explains MotiangNgoveni. “Therapy is an important part of addressing those issues, getting parents to open up and to begin working through their emotions.”

Dr Henderson adds that some parents or guardians believe that by hiding their own vulnerability, they will be better able to address the needs of the family, but that this is not the correct approach.

“As a parent, being able to acknowledge your own vulnerabilities, feelings and fears, is very important. No parent can go through such a major disruption without being personally affected, and those who are not communicative will struggle to support each other, and to be genuinely caring and responsive to their children.

“All families going through this type of experience need to have counselling, and parents should attend couples counselling as well. People are all individuals and have different ways of coping. Even healthy children can get depressed, and studies show that those with a long-term illness are more likely to become depressed.

These are all perfectly normal responses to a very difficult situation, and it is not only ok, but in fact important to express that.

Support systems

“Joining a support group for the particular condition that a child has is highly beneficial, as this helps to make the parents or guardians feel connected to others who know best what they are going through. There may be additional social worker support offered by the facility, of which the family should most certainly avail themselves.

“The best way for friends and family to be supportive is to be available and present with a hands-on approach, such as grocery shopping, doing a load of washing or preparing a meal. When the unwell child is home, family gatherings should take place around the child as far as possible, so that they feel included.

solution to a particular problem is what is truly helpful. For example, allowing the parents or guardians some time together by offering to stay with the child or to take the child for an outing,” notes Dr Henderson.

Motiang-Ngoveni adds that the unwell child should be spoken to and treated normally by family and friends, as any special treatment can damage their selfesteem, and more normal interactions can help them to feel more capable.

“It is ok for friends and family to express their sadness at the situation but then presenting a

Cultural interpretations

“While long-term medical conditions may be assessed in a western medicine context in South Africa, it is important for healthcare professionals, friends and family members to be sensitive to any cultural interpretations of a condition. It is therefore important that medical teams ask how a family interprets what has happened,” says Dr Henderson.

“Western and cultural medical interpretations are not mutually exclusive. In some cases, a family may choose to pursue a traditional healing approach but treating teams should make it clear to them that they are welcome to seek medical treatment, should they wish to, which they often do,” she concludes. 

About Netcare Akeso

Netcare Akeso operates a network of private in-patient mental health facilities and is part of the Netcare Group. Netcare Akeso provides individual, integrated and family-oriented treatment in specialised in-patient treatment facilities, as well as certain outpatient services, for a range of psychiatric, psychological and substance use conditions. Please visit www.akeso.co.za or contact info@akeso.co.za for further information. The COPE Therapy website www.copetherapy.co.za also contains many useful blog posts on various issues and tips relating to mental health.

In the event of a psychological crisis, call 0861 435 787, 24 hours a day for emergency support. Psychiatrist consultations can be made through Netcare appointmed™, online at www.netcareappointmed.co.za or by calling 0861 555 565. Outpatient psychologist and occupational therapist consultations can be booked via www.copetherapy.co.za.

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Dr Terri Henderson www.babysandbeyond.co.za

The Children

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Carmien Nursing 20 and Nursing 40 teabags | available at Dischem stores, selected Checkers stores (WP, GP & EC) and online at www.carmientea.co.za www.babysandbeyond.co.za

R39.99

Wintergreen Hygiene Spray | Available online at www.wintergreensport.co.za

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physical health

Osteoporosis in children Osteoporosis causes bones to be fragile, which results in them breaking easily. The disease is more common in older people and not so often in children. However, there are cases where osteoporosis is diagnosed in children and teenagers.

By Dr Naadir Bismilla

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physical health

B

ones are one of the essential parts of our bodies; as we grow so do our bones. As they grow and rebuild, they help develop strong skeletal structure that enable our bodies to ride a bike or walk. However, when children do not build enough bone density they suffer from a condition called juvenile osteoporosis. It is a rare condition that takes place during the child’s prime bone-building years, which is a critical time where they accumulate bone mass.

Osteoporosis

Types of juvenile osteoporosis Juvenile osteoporosis can be categorised into two types: secondary and idiopathic.

Secondary osteoporosis is caused by another or underlying medical condition such as juvenile arthritis, diabetes, leukemia or medication such as steroids and chemotherapy. This type of osteoporosis disease is much more common.

Idiopathic osteoporosis: the causes are unknown for this type of osteoporosis.

It usually occurs just before puberty, and it is a lot less common amongst children.

Symptoms Juvenile osteoporosis is often known as a silent condition because its symptoms are not obvious until a bone breaks, typically fractures in the ankles, feet and legs.

Patients also experience pain in their feet, ankles, hips and lower back, which results in trouble walking.

Treatment After a doctor makes a diagnosis and gives recommendations, the child needs to make some lifestyle changes that will help with their bone health. They might need to start a diet that is rich in protein, calcium and vitamin D to help strengthen their bones. Such vitamins can be found in dairy products like milk, yoghurt and cheese.

They might also need to do only safe physical activities and avoid contact sports that cause fractures.

Healthy bone

If it is caused by an underlying condition, doctors will treat it with medication or change the medication to something that will help.

Juvenile osteoporosis is often diagnosed after the child has a bad fall or a trauma incident that breaks their fragile bones. Diagnosing osteoporosis onset is a bit challenging when it comes to children because it occurs when they are still in their bone mass building years.

Osteoporosis

We need to keep in mind that bones help protect our vital organs and also provide our bodies with a skeletal structure that enables us to do our everyday activities.

Although osteoporosis may be common in adults, it is also important that you pay attention to your child’s bone health to ensure that they are not affected.  www.drnaadirbismilla.co.za

Elastoplast, has got you covered, for a life uninterrupted. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Dr Naadir Bismilla

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household

Shower fun for the

entire family The element of water magically attracts children.

When playing, little ones often have the wildest fantasies, and yet when it comes to daily cleaning and showering at home, there are usually discussions or even tears, especially when shampooing.

T

o make bath time one of the most exciting moments of the day, hansgrohe has worked with experts to develop the Jocolino children's shower. It succeeds the first hansgrohe children's shower Joco from 1995.

The cute, colourful shower head, which fits perfectly in children's hands thanks to its narrow handle, comes in three different animal designs. With the children's shower head, the little ones can learn to shower on their own in a playful way. Parents can be worry-free thanks to the high-quality materials and workmanship. No fights and no tantrums - with the different jet types, Jocolino is completely attuned to the needs of the child. In this way the bath becomes an unforgettable experience.

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household

More creativity and fun – let Jocolino take you on a shower safari It's getting wild in the bathroom, with the black and white zebra, the beige lion or the green crocodile, toddlers imagine themselves on a safari in a far away savannah while playing and bathing.

The different animal designs and cute googly eyes give Jocolino the character of a toy, thus automatically stimulating

the creativity and imagination of the little ones. Thanks to its minimalistic design, Jocolino is visually restrained and blends unobtrusively into the bathroom design.

experience for the entire body. Thanks to the isolated water flow, the shower's narrow handle does not heat up, even with warm water temperatures.

The children's shower has two different spray types, which can be adjusted by turning the handle. A gentle MonoRain was designed for washing out shampoo and soap. The targeted jet prevents cleaning products from getting into the child's eyes during rinsing. The soft Rain is used for daily cleaning and provides a pleasant showering

"As a company with a strong family focus, we always think about users and their immediate environment in all our product developments, from children's showers to smart home technology or the hansgrohe DogShower. We want to make daily experiences with water as pleasant and sustainable as possible for every part of the family," says Katrin Roming, Product Manager Showers, Hansgrohe SE. The children's shower features the QuickClean technology, which removes limescale residue from the nozzles when the spray modes are changed. The new edition of the children's shower can be easily screwed onto all standard shower hoses. Alternatively, there is the possibility to install a quick-coupling set-in order to change the shower head with one click. The loving design, the functional jet types and the simple installation make the child-safe shower head the ideal bathing companion. 

hansgrohe stands for innovative solutions for kitchens and bathrooms that combine intelligent functionality, outstanding design, and enduring quality. Based in Germany’s Black Forest region, the internationally active hansgrohe Group sells premium products for showers, shower systems, bathroom and kitchen taps, and kitchen sinks under the hansgrohe brand. hansgrohe stands for great moments with water since 1901. With its many awardwinning products, this traditional brand shapes the flow of water in the kitchen and the bathroom. Because this is where people spend the time they treasure most and experience precious moments in the interaction with water. hansgrohe stands for Smart Living applications that enrich people’s everyday lives and offer them more functionality and safety in their homes. hansgrohe. Meet the beauty of water.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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household tips

How to wash bras

without damaging them Fed up with shrunken or saggy bras with torn lace or lost underwires? A few changes to your laundry routine will help to keep your delicates in tip top condition.

W

hether you’ve invested in a lacy designer number or you’ve found that uber-rare gem – a comfy bra that you want to last as long as possible, caring for your bra and washing it correctly is important.

Bras are very delicate, especially those with underwires or lace. They’re easy to damage and often end up shrinking or going saggy (or somehow both at the same time). While hand washing is rarely high on anyone’s list of favourite ways to spend 10 minutes, it does help to protect delicate items like lacy bras and it’s best to wash bras if you have the time. You’re also less likely to end up with a rogue underwire causing havoc in your washing machine (or worse, poking you in the chest, ouch).

How to wash bras by hand

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1. Soak your bras Before you start, separate your bras into three piles: lights, darks and colours. Fill a sink or washing up bowl with warm (not hot) water. Add a mild laundry detergent, ideally one for delicates or hand washing if you have it. Check the bottle to find out how much you need.

Fasten the clasp on each bra in one of your piles, pop them in the water and leave them to soak for up to an hour.

Don’t soak light coloured bras with dark coloured ones or you’ll end up with dingy whites.

the bra down into the water and let it rise up again – this creates air bubbles, which will do a lot of the work for you.

2. Wash your bras Gently wash each bra. Repeatedly push

3. Rinse your bras thoroughly Empty the water out of the sink or

You can also gently massage or rub your bras but be careful not to bend the underwire.

Pay particular attention to the bottom of the cups and the areas that sit by your armpits. These are likely to have soaked in a bit of sweat, which can attract bacteria.

bowl and refill with clean, cool water.

Push the bras to the bottom of the bowl and let them rise to the top, then repeat several times. You might need to change the water a few times to get all the detergent out of your bras.

4. Squeeze excess water out Empty the sink of water and gently squeeze each bra to get the water out.

Don’t wring (twist) them or scrunch them up as that risks damaging the underwire or stretching the bras out of shape. When you’re done, you’ll need to reshape and dry them.

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household tips

How to wash bras in a washing machine 1. Prepare your bras for washing Check the care label before you start, as not all bras can be machine washed.

It’s also important to make sure you wash different colours separately to avoid your favourite white bra going a dingy grey.

Always fasten the clasp before putting a bra in the wash. If you don’t, the clasps can snag and tear lacy material. Ideally, pop your bras into a mesh laundry bag.

Don’t have a bag? A pillowcase can work if you knot it closed (just don’t knot it too tightly as it’ll be more difficult to unknot when it’s wet).

Whether you use a mesh bag or a pillowcase, don’t stuff it too full. Your bras need space to move around. Plus, the more bras you wash together, the more likely they are to get in a tangled mess.

2. Load your washing machine We recommend using a laundry detergent

that’s designed for delicates, or a mild non-bio. Add fabric conditioner if you like.

You can wash your bras with other clothing, but don’t overfill the machine – we know it’s tempting to squash everything in together so that you don’t need to do two loads, but your clothes won’t get as clean, and your bras are more likely to get stretched out of shape.

So just put a few light garments in with your bras – avoid adding heavy towels, bedding or jeans.

3. Choose the setting If your machine has a delicate or hand wash setting, that’s the one to go for. Otherwise, choose a lower spin setting (around 600) and cooler temperature (30 degrees Celsius).

Hot water can increase the risk of the colours bleeding, leaving your sexy red bra a dull shade of pink.

How to dry your bras First off, as soon as your bra comes out of the washing machine or sink, use your hands to gently reshape it if needs be, paying particular attention to the cups.

misshapen, and the heat will set the bra into that new shape.

You may also need to untwist the straps. Don’t worry if you can’t get it looking completely right – any minor changes in shape should naturally work themselves out as you wear the bra.

Instead, hang each bra over a clotheshorse or the washing line, and allow it to dry naturally. It’s best to drape them over the line, rather than hanging them by a strap, unless you’re a fan of the saggy bra look.

Never dry a bra in a tumble dryer. The vigorous motion of the machine could cause the bra to become

Don’t worry if you’re in a rush – the lightweight nature of bras means they dry pretty quickly.

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household tips ras – Washing b ns tio your ques answered

How often should I wash my bra?

You’ll probably want to wash sports bras after every wear. Other bras can usually be washed every three or four wears, as long as they’re not dirty or smelly.

How can I get sweat stains out of my bras?

Sports bras, in particular, are prone to getting yellow discolouration around the armpits. You may think that washing them in hot water is the best option for stain removal but think again.

Hot water is likely to damage the bra and could make the colours run. Instead, use a stain remover and then soak them for up to an hour in warm (not hot) water.

Can I wear the same bra every day?

It’s best to alternate bras to give the elastic a break, which will help your bras last longer.

How often should I replace my bra?

It does depend on how often you wear them. If you wear the same bra regularly, it’ll probably need replacing after six months to a year. In general, just use your common sense though. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as the bra losing its elasticity or becoming misshapen. Knowing how to wash bras correctly helps them to last a heck of a lot longer.

Can you tumble dry bras?

Nope. The heat is likely to damage the elasticity and the tumbling action could affect the underwiring.

Is it ok to wash cotton bras on a high temperature?

While the material itself would be fine, the elasticity could be affected by a high temperature. So it’s best to stick to 30 degrees.

What detergent should I use to wash my bra?

Ideally, you want a detergent for delicates, however, a general non-bio should be fine.

Avoid anything with bleach or alcohol, as both can damage the fabric or elasticity.

How should I store my bras?

Place them one on top of each other, so that the cups of one bra sit inside the cups of another. This will help to protect their shape.

It’s best not to fold them to fit one bra cup inside its partner. To do so, you’d have to turn one cup inside out and you also risk damaging the middle of the bra where it’s folded.

Help, my bra smells musty!

Musty smelling clothes usually mean that your washing machine needs the filter unclogging and a good clean or that the garment is taking too long to dry. 

From stubborn stains to home hygiene, laundry hacks to DIY basics, gardening tips, and more visit www.cleanipedia.com for easy cleaning expert tips.

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There’s no way to be a perfect mother and a million ways to be a good one.

Tummy Trouble (1,4) Gas discomfort affects both breastfed and bottle-fed newborns to varying degrees. While gas discomfort may affect children of any age, it is more painful in newborns and early babies between the ages of one and four months since their stomachs are still growing. Furthermore, due to inborn and environmental variables, some newborns appear to suffer more than others do.(1) When newborns swallow air, such as through bubbles in formula, a weak latch when nursing, or gasping between screams, gas develops. When newborns start solids and try new meals for the first time, they often have a gassy belly.

The colonies of bacteria in a baby’s digestive system (the “gut microbiome”) are still growing; therefore, gas might be an indication of immaturity, especially in the first three months.(4)

How does mommy know baby has tummy trouble: Your baby may be fussy for no obvious reason, or she may pull up her legs and stretch out, arching her back. (4)

Tips & tricks to sooth your baby (2) Follow the “Five S” Strategy

Swaddling: Tightly wrap your baby’s arms around their sides, but keep their legs free and flexible to allow their hips to move.

Shushing: Noises inside the uterus are louder than a vacuum cleaner, according to Dr. Karp. Babies sleep longer when noises similar to those heard in the womb are imitated.

Dr. Karp recommends white-noise audio files or radio static. It could also work to record rain or even the sound of a hair dryer. These noises may be loud to you, but they are soothing to infants since they are similar to what they heard in the womb.

Bonnycare (3) Bonnycare is a herbal complex that can help to combat and relieve common gastro-Intestinal discomforts in infants and children, such as:

Indigestion, Cramps, Poor appetite, Bloating and Loud tummy rumblings.

Sucking: In the first several months of life, babies have a strong sucking need, and fulfilling that urge can rapidly settle an anxious baby. Give your infant a pacifier if he or she is colicky. While it may be rejected by some breastfeeding newborns, it will give immediate relief to others.

Side/Stomach Lying: Place your baby over your forearm or lap, their head resting on your hand. When a screaming infant is laying on their side or stomach, it is simplest to soothe them. (It is important to note that babies should never sleep on their sides or stomachs, since this raises the risk of sudden infant death syndrome.)

For more information: Tel : +27 86 062 8482 email: health@nativa.co.za website: www.tibbhearbals.com Complementary medicine: Category D 33.5 Unani Medicine The pharmacological action of Bonnycare syrup is based on the Unani-Tibb philosophy Proprietary name: Bonnycare syrup, each 5ml contains: Tinospora cordifolia 1 mg; Emblica officinalis 0.5 mg; Capparis spinose 0,5 mg Piper longum 0.5 mg; Foeniculum vulgare 1 mg; Cichorium intybus 0.5 mg; Cassia occidentalis 0.5 mg; Terminalia chebula 0.5 mg; Elettaria cardamomum0.5 mg; Glycyrhiza glabra 0.5 mg; Anethum graveolons 0.0018 ml Tibb Health Sciences (Pty) Ltd| Pharmaceutical| Toll free: 0800 22 8422| www.tibbherbals.com.

This unregistered medicine has not been evaluated by the SAHPRA for its quality, safety or intended use.

Reference: 1. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/colic.html 2. https://www.parents.com/baby/care/colic/how-to-soothe-a-colicky-baby/ 3. https://tibbherbals.com/bonnycare/ 4. https://www.babycenter.com/health/conditions/stomach-ache-in-babies-and-toddlers_11529 YMBON002/01

Swinging: This keeps babies relax by moving in a steady, smooth manner. “Holding and rocking the infant will not harm it,” Dr. Karp promises. “Babies were held and rocked 24/7 in the uterus, so even holding your infant for 18 hours a day is a substantial cutback for your baby.” Indeed, according to a research published in the journal Pediatrics, infants who were held by their parents for 16.5 hours per day cried half as often as those who were held for 8 hours per day.

Remember that each baby is different. Some need swaddling and shushing, while others do not calm until you add swinging. In addition, mega-fussy kids usually need four or five S’s done all together—with vigor—to switch on their calming reflex.

Play a soothing baby bedtime playlist for mum and baby brought to you by Bonnycare.

Scan the Spotify code below or search https://bit.ly/Bonnycare in your browser to access the playlist.

mental health

Living with depression doesn’t mean you can’t be a stronger version of yourself

Depression impacts one in ten people and does not discriminate based on age, gender, or social status. Sadness, feeling down, and losing interest or pleasure in daily activities are familiar feelings for all of us, but when they persist and affect our lives substantially, the issue may be depression.

Depression is ongoing and can last for several weeks, months, or years. Some people may try to hide it or may not realise they have depression as some symptoms can be less obvious. What’s more, some people are unable to put their feelings into words fearing the negative stigma.

Signs and symptoms of depression

Look out for these symptoms and if you think you may have depression, talk to a doctor as soon as possible.

• Reduced interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed • Appetite and weight changes • Changes in sleep habits • Alcohol or drug use • Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions • Loss of sexual desire • Agitation and restlessness • Slowed movement and speech • Fatigue or loss of energy • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt • Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, or an attempt at suicide

Breaking depression

Research, published in the Psychiatry Journal, reveals that 39% of people (in the study) were able to enjoy a happy, healthy mindset after receiving ongoing

treatment for their depression. The study defined recovery as: • Experiencing happiness or life satisfaction every day for at least a month.

• A full year without depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or substance abuse.

• Positive social and psychological wellbeing.

Depression is like Kintsugi

For some who have managed to break their depression, recovery has been compared to the ancient Japanese art of Kintsugi. Kintsugi involves repairing broken objects and painting the repaired areas in gold, accentuating rather than hiding the imperfections. Similarly, with the right treatment you can heal and live a fulfilled life.

If you or a family member are struggling with feelings of hopelessness and symptoms of depression, speak to your doctor. Learn more about depression symptoms, diagnosis, causes and treatment on Our Mental Health, a website featuring professional insights and lifestyle advise for people living with depression and their caregivers.  For more information, visit www.janssenwithme.co.za/en-za/ ourmentalhealth1/

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mental health

Surviving

toddlerhood Self-care for relationships as the trauma of toddler tantrums takes its toll. What can parents do to embrace the toddler chronicles?

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mental health

A

s parents we are often left feeling defeated and deflated after a screaming episode from our toddlers over the simplest things.

Madelein Hendricks from The Vent describes that her now four-year-old left her crippled with mom guilt and selfdoubt, questioning her parenting skills, as she reflects and moves out of the toddler phase with her boy. The women of The Vent discuss their experiences with Toddler Chronicles in their latest podcast.

An exhausted mom of four, Angelique Wells explained that motherhood with a toddler of two is not for the faint hearted and that finding the balance is most often simply not an option. She can endure many of the obstacles that motherhood has to offer but the screaming, for her, is unbearable. Keri Morrison, also a member of The Vent gives some great advice and feedback about a technique that works well for her and it’s the age-old time out method.

Are boys and girls so different?

In 2012, conversation.com shared that between the ages of two and three, boys displayed a higher rate of behavioural problems than girls. Boys were around 10% more likely to show what we call 'externalising behaviours' such as destructiveness and aggressiveness. Girls were, however, more likely to have emotional problems.

Are parents doing enough self-care to recover from the trauma that tantrums leave behind?

One thing that all parents have in common is the nauseating feeling that is left behind after our child has a tantrum. This forces us to ask the question, are we doing enough together as a parental unit to repair the damage that gets done in these relationships?

Michelle Austin, member of The Vent explains, “I feel that partners should be as close to 100% on the same page as possible.” She finds that it’s necessary to do a blow-by-blow analysis after each tantrum episode to analyse how each parent or family member dealt with the episode.

“From there, we can build each other up as partners by complimenting and celebrating when something worked, but also discussing why a certain thing wasn’t as effective.”

Austin believes that future episodes can be dealt with more realistically to have the minimum trauma impact on both the parents and the child.

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mental health 9 tips

The Vent shares with parents to survive the toddler years

1. Practicing self-control: “No one on this planet will ever dare speak to me this way" is the immediate thought that crosses my mind when I am screamed at from a dizzy height, says Madelein Hendricks, but after some introspection she has realised that self-control always plays a major role in calming down the situation.

2. Apologising to my partner: At times, the hardest part of the aftermath is being brave enough to apologise to my husband for what went down, but once we have spoken about this, we realise that we are not the only ones dealing with this. Madelein observes that finding some healthy humour helps address our behaviour and how we contribute to the situation, so that we can make changes that will serve ongoing positive parenting.

3. Take a timeout during tantrums: Keri believes that giving both parent and child the time to calm down, is essential. This allows the situation to be diffused and for calm to be restored.

4. Pick your battles: “Knowing when to give in, and what will not be tolerated is the masterclass that most parents fail,” adds Keri. As all relationships are a balance between give and take, motherhood can often seem off balance, but once we pick our battles, we can fight harder for the things that are non-negotiable and breathe through the others.

5. Debrief with your partner: It’s vital to be on the same page with your partner and communication is the only way to achieve this. Debriefing after every tantrum can help parents become a stronger unit, Michelle reiterates.

6. Mommy and daddy timeout: Practice at least 30 minutes alone time (without kids) a day so that you can keep sane, this can be something as simple as going to the shops alone. In an ideal world it would be fantastic to have 30 minutes with your partner alone everyday but as we don’t live within a fairy tale world, make the effort to take turns to play the roles of mommy and daddy and then yourself, doing you. This might give you only three minutes for yourself each day, but it is something to cherish.

7. Fight the good fight: Angie adds that fighting with your toddler and your partner is exhausting. “When we get fired up, we must remember that as a unit we can do so much more.”

8. If you say no, stick to your guns: Don't give in. As our little treasures are being moulded by all the good things, we are most importantly teaching them that boundaries are one of the essentials. When you say 'no', don’t give in, this will only show that you are flexible about the big things too.

9. Savour the good times: As exhausted and fairly traumatised we might be feeling as parents, we tend to miss out on the good things, by focusing on the negative and stressful moments. Society also puts pressure on us to be the best parents; there is little room for mistakes. It is important to remember that everyone is on their own parenting journey and the key really lies in the fact that no home or environment is the same. We should be kinder and more tolerant of one another – parenting is hard, there is so much guilt already; we’re all doing our best.

Give yourself a high five for this and give the parent next to you one too. Our children are precious, enjoy each moment. If you are struggling with parenting and feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone. You can reach out to The Vent on www.thevent.co.za for guidance. 

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mental health

5 ways cleaning can improve your mental health

Mental health is an important element of overall health that is often overlooked. As our modern world becomes more demanding and we continue to feel the effects of the last year’s global events, people are reporting record levels of anxiety and depression.

The achievement of a goal, like a clean space, can give us the motivation to tackle other challenges in our lives, beginning with the belief that we are capable and can overcome any obstacles we come across.

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mental health

T

aking care of our mental health is becoming more important than ever before and one simple way we can do this, is through regular cleaning.

A 2017 study1 on clutter and overconsumption found that cleaning helps our minds feel more in control and

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elevates feel-good hormones in the body – which means cleaning is good for the mind and the body!

Psychologist and Life Coach Dr Tshepiso Matentjie outlines five ways cleaning can be beneficial to our health and wellbeing.

When we clean, we get our bodies moving, which helps to release endorphins and feel-good hormones into the blood and reduce cortisol levels, which cause stress. Overall, this helps to relieve tension and anxiety, allowing the body and mind to unwind.

Cleaning can create a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction by increasing our mind’s feelings of control. The achievement of a goal, like a clean space, can give us the motivation to tackle other challenges in our lives, beginning with the belief that we are capable and can overcome any obstacles we come across along the way.

clean and tidy environment can help to create a positive attitude and the resilience to keep A going, no matter what. The discipline and habit of cleaning and tidying on a regular basis can also lay a foundation for developing positive habits like discipline, focus and motivation.

When we clean with others, it can be a bonding activity that can improve intimacy and strengthen relationships. Untidy and chaotic home environments have been found to be related to parental stress2 and to negatively impact parenting behaviour3 and children’s problem behaviours4. But, when cleaning becomes a positive group activity, it creates cohesion, helps everyone to feel like they play their part and relieves the pressure from being shouldered by one individual, which often creates tension in the home.

Your home is an extension of your how you feel about and see yourself, so cleaning is a form of self-care that can help with developing and maintaining self-esteem. People who struggle with depression and anxiety in particular often find cleaning difficult but report feeling safer, calmer and happier when their space is clean and tidy.

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mental health

“For some people, motivation can be a struggle when it comes to cleaning. Others may feel they lack the necessary skills to get going, but resources like Cleanipedia.com can help by giving expert, simple cleaning tips, readily available online for anyone to use,” says Dr Tshepiso.

Cleanipedia, South Africa’s first online, one-stop hub for easy cleaning and organising tips for a happier home suggests the following quick tips: • Reduce clutter: Getting rid of packaging, gadgets, old clothes and anything that is no longer needed will make rooms look tidier and make it easier to keep them that way.

“Committing to small daily tasks instead of • For thick dust: Wipe with a damp microfibre cloth that traps grime and letting the cleaning build up and become a allows you to get rid of it, rather than spreading it around. daunting task is another good way to stay on • Storage: Hooks are a great way for efficiently dealing with coats, bathrobes top of cleaning and enjoy a happier home.” and shopping bags when storage space is limited.

• Rubbish: Make sure there are always bin liners and recycling bags available so there is no need for rubbish to accumulate. Putting it outside promptly will prevent odours.

• Ironing: An effective hack is putting wrinkled clothes in the tumble dryer on a high heat with a handful of ice cubes for 15 minutes, so the melting ice can steam away creases.

• Stains: These vary a lot, but in general, a good approach with spills is to dry up any liquid with a clean cloth or paper towel immediately.

• Floors: Make cleaning floors easier by buying a powerful, cordless vacuum cleaner that is simple to use and empty.  From stubborn stains to home hygiene, laundry hacks to DIY basics, gardening tips, and more visit www.cleanipedia.com for easy cleaning expert tips.

Sources: 1. Vartanian, L.R., Kernan, K.M. and Wansink, B., 2017. Clutter, chaos, and overconsumption: The role of mind-set in stressful and chaotic food environments. Environment and Behavior, 49(2), pp.215-223.

2. Dumas, J.E., Nissley, J., Nordstrom, A., Smith, E.P., Prinz, R.J. and Levine, D.W., 2005. Home chaos: Sociodemographic, parenting, interactional, and child correlates. Journal of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, 34(1), pp.93-104.

3. Corapci, F. and Wachs, T.D., 2002. Does parental mood or efficacy mediate the influence of environmental chaos upon parenting behavior? Merrill-Palmer Quarterly (1982-), pp.182-201.

4. Coldwell, J., Pike, A. and Dunn, J., 2006. Household chaos–links with parenting and child behaviour. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 47(11), pp.1116-1122.

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GRANNY GOOSE

Gosling collection IS NOW EXCLUSIVE TO @home!

Bringing you and your little ones effortless sleep comfort for more than 25 years, Granny Goose has spread her wings and continues her journey with @home.

As we carry on delivering the comfiest nights for your baby, just as you have come to expect from Granny Goose, you can now shop your favourite Gosling products from @home and on your TFG Account.

Available online at www.home.co.za or Granny Goose stores: Granny Goose Claremont | Granny Goose Constantia | Granny Goose Illovo

SHOP IN GRANNY GOOSE STORES OR ONLINE WWW.HOME.CO.ZA

mental health

Creating hope for the

prevention of suicide

9

warning signs that someone needs help

A

wareness can create hope for the prevention of suicide, which the World Health Organization estimates claims more than 700 000 lives globally each year.

South Africa’s suicide rate for 2019 has been estimated at 23.5 suicides per 100 000 people, of which more than three-quarters were male. Although these are the most recent official statistics, former Health Minister Zweli Mkhize revealed in 2020 that there had been 1 781 suicide related deaths in South Africa over a four month period, between 27 March and 27 July 2020.

“The sad fact is that for every completed suicide, there are many more attempts which often go unreported or undocumented. For each suicide, there are believed to be at least 20 attempted suicides,” says Megan Hosking, psychiatric intake clinician at Netcare Akeso mental health facilities.

This year’s theme for World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September addressed one of the myths surrounding suicide, which is that talking about suicide may encourage people to act on it.

The theme ‘Creating hope through action’ emphasised that suicide should not be treated as a taboo subject.

“While not every tragic death from self-harm can be stopped, it may be possible to reach more people who can only see one way out, before it is too late, if our society is more informed. Creating a deeper understanding of suicide through raising awareness of it amongst the public could help more people to reach out and talk to others for help before that last resort,” explains Hosking.

“Suicide is complicated and often misunderstood, and for a person who is suicidal the situation feels hopeless and often confusing,” she adds.

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mental health

“Those close to them are often left with many questions, such as seeking a ‘reason’ for the person’s suicide or attempted suicide or wondering if they could have prevented the person from taking their own life. It is particularly distressing to lose someone in this way but there are no simple answers when it comes to suicide.”

Nine potential warning signs

1

The person is talking about death, harming or killing themselves.

2

Expressing feelings of hopelessness and having no hope for the future.

3

Expressing being a burden on others.

When a person is suicidal, it should be remembered that their only thought is often to end the pain or suffering they are experiencing.

4

Seeking out things that may be harmful, such as drugs or weapons.

5

Saying goodbye or giving away possessions that they value.

“They may feel there is no other way out of their struggle, even if they have conflicting feelings about death. This may be as a result of mental health difficulties, adjustment to new medication, emotional struggles, financial difficulties, a feeling of hopelessness, experiences of loss, or other challenges that feel overwhelming to them,” explains Hosking.

6

Increased isolation from family members and friends.

7

Self-destructive behaviour.

8

Previous suicide attempts.

9

A sudden sense of calm – this could indicate the person has a plan for suicide and has made ’peace’ with their situation.

According to Hosking, just because someone may be thinking about suicide, does not mean there is no hope for them. While people who are suicidal may not always reveal their inner pain or intentions in a way that is recognisable to others, there are several common warning signs that should be taken seriously.

“Awareness and recognition of these signs can help save lives. Any indication of suicidal thoughts must be taken seriously. Responding appropriately could help to make the difference between life and death for a person contemplating suicide,” Hosking says.

What you can do to help someone at risk Talk to the person if you are worried about them. Be honest about your concerns but avoid blaming them for anything they are feeling. Listen to them and take them seriously.

Offer help and support but know your boundaries. If a loved one is suicidal, seek professional help, make sure they are in a safe place, and able to access professional care.

Respond quickly if there is a crisis. If a person comes forward saying they are feeling suicidal or having thoughts of harming themselves, it is important to try to understand whether they have made plans for taking their own life and have the means to carry this out. Seek emergency assistance, as this is a high risk situation.

You are not alone “You are not alone, and there is always another way,” says Hosking.

“If you are feeling suicidal or having thoughts of harming yourself, or you need advice for assisting a loved one who you are concerned may be suicidal, Netcare Akeso offers a 24-hour helpline on 0861 435 787, where our trained counsellors will listen to what you are experiencing without judgement and can guide you on the various options for assistance and offer support when you feel alone.” 

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Valid until 31 March 2022

nutrition

Research reveals 61% of mothers are concerned

their children are not getting a balanced diet AudienceDNA (ADNA) has released a research report, in line with the 2021 National Nutrition Week, that asked 2 898 mothers about their approach to their children’s nutrition.

M

others know the importance of food for their children’s wellbeing and the top priority for mothers is to provide a balanced meal. Sixty one percent (61%) of mothers try to feed their children mostly homemade meals so that they have control over what their children eat.

Their topmost concern about their children’s diet is that they are not getting a balanced diet.

Besides that, 43% would also like to cut down on processed food as well as to have more vitamins and minerals in their food.

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nutrition Mothers’ priorities for their children’s nutrition and wellbeing

The top three nutrients that mums look to add into food for their children are: 1. Fibre 2. Protein 3. Anti-oxidants The Covid-19 pandemic definitely has mothers concerned about their children’s immune system. The research also revealed that 38% of mothers also place importance on emotional development and 31% focus on mental health.

Even though 48% say they make sure that every meal is balanced and 27% cook only healthy food, research has shown that South Africans are eating too much starch and meat, and not sufficient fruits and vegetables (source: Plate of the Nation Report).

“Key challenges concerning childhood nutrition in South Africa include a high intake of sugar sweetened drinks and salt,” says Mpho Tshukudu, an integrative and functional nutrition dietitian.

“A majority of South African children from poorer primary and secondary schools get meals from the National School Nutrition Programme, and 80% of the schools do not serve the daily recommended fruits and vegetables. It is also concerning that an adult plate has significantly less vegetables and more starch and protein compared to the recommended amounts.”

MUMS & NUTRITION SURVEY 2021 AUDIENCE SURVEYED: 2 898

Children’s nutrition and wellbeing responsibilities

While mothers say they share the responsibility of maintaining their children’s wellbeing equally with their partners, only 8% of partners help with the cooking or preparation of children’s food. Most of the food preparation responsibility falls on the women of the family (mothers themselves, their domestic helper, or female relatives). However, 65% of partners do help their spouses with food shopping so that responsibility is shared more equally.

Seventeen percent (17%) of families order food delivery, use food catering or eat out most of the time due to a busy lifestyle.

With the pandemic, there is an increased number of online food shopping services, so it is not surprising that 42% of respondents say they normally do their food and grocery shopping online.

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health Mothers need support

Online forums, blogs or websites are mothers’ favourite sources of advice about their child’s wellbeing. This is followed by their friends and spouse or partner. Only 2% of mothers turn to doctors or nurses for advice.

Nineteen percent (19%) of mothers think that food companies can help by adding more nutrients into their products while 15% want more affordable healthy food. Thirteen percent (13%) would like more information about their products.

Mothers’ concerns and worries

In terms of their children’s health, almost one-third of mothers are worried that their children are spending too much time online. This is followed by them not getting enough nutrients and their mental health. The pandemic has put the spotlight on the importance of holistic wellbeing that includes emotional and mental health.

That said, health isn’t the top reason that keeps mothers up at night thinking about their children’s future. They are most concerned about their children’s educational opportunities. 

Tshukudu thinks food manufacturers can help: “Due to the fast-paced world that we live in and the food system we have adapted to, mothers need more support in nutrition education and healthy meal preparation techniques.

Food manufacturers need to add more nutrients to foods to fill the gaps, whilst making sure that healthy food is more affordable. Convenience food should not compromise on the quality in terms of freshness and nutrition.”

About the research

Mothers play an important role in their children’s health. This online research was conducted among 2 898 mothers with children of all ages, to provide more data and insights to organisations that help mothers make better choices in feeding and caring for their children.

Research areas include: • Who is responsible for buying food and making meals for the family?

• Meal making and shopping habits.

• Attitudes towards food and health; what are mothers’ priorities when it comes to their children’s health?

• What are their information sources?

For more information about the research, contact Michelle Beh at email: michelle@adna.global or tel: +27 (0)79 949 537

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nutrition

It’s all about the

‘HASS’

Did you know that the Urban Dictionary defines the word Hass as ‘anything kicks ass’? We’d say that with the Hass avocado’s rich, nutty, addictive taste, they got that absolutely right!

N

amed after California postman Rudolph Hass, who grew the first tree of its kind from a seed he bought in the 1920s, the Hass avocado cultivar has a thick, pebbly skin and a creamy, slightly nutty tasting flesh.

The skin colour of Hass avocados assists in telling whether the fruit is ripe: they usually turn from green to a dark purplebrown as they ripen.

But enough of the biology and history lessons; Hass is actually the world’s most popular avocado cultivar, and it’s not difficult to understand why. Besides the fact that the Hass a wonderfully luxurious taste, its thicker skin allows for a longer shelf life.

Recent research conducted by SAAGA, revealed that South Africans are very

traditional when it comes to eating avo and prefer it with bread, in a salad or simply on its own. Try a Hass the way we all like it, on bread, but with a twist and a bit of extravagance.

For further information and avo recipes, visit www.avocado.co.za

asoning se e ak k ri u F h it w ls e Avocado bag sted sesame of dried seaweed, toa g is a Japanese seasonin cado!

Furikake seasoning also delicious with avo is it e; ric on ed us lly ua us seeds and spices, ation time: 10 minutes Ser ves: 4 | Prepar

Ingredients

• 4 bagels • 2 large ripe avocados ice; • Toppings of your cho micro es, ish rad s, rrie be straw , ion greens, pickled red on d ste toa pomegranate seeds, and kin mp seeds such as pu sunflower

For the Furikake

e seeds • ¼ cup toasted sesam ame seeds ses ck bla on • 1 tablespo o pieces (use • 1 sheet nori, torn int seaweed 6 sheets for the small snack) kes • Pinch of sea salt fla (optional) kes • Pinch of chilli fla • Pinch of sugar

or spice grinder, whizz a mini food processor In : ake rik e Fu the ke 1. To ma break up the nori, tak ts for a few pulses to ien red ing ake rik Fu all the . care not to over blend pes (with ting into interesting sha ing the avocado or cut slic h the by wit els le bag ink the spr le 2. Assemb your choice and top with toppings of s), to a ter up cut for ie r ok ine co nta e co tur minia stored in an airtight p kee l wil ake rik Fu Furikake. Remaining

Method

month.

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FRESH EGGS NOURISH THE BODY AND MIND

parenting

Surviving the first week with a newborn

– a surgeon's approach

We'll never forget the day our baby girl left the warm artificial womb of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to be discharged to our care. I remember fumbling with the car seat buckles, readjusting her head every two minutes and then finally feeling my heart skip a beat when I thought I didn't see a symmetrical chest rise with her breathing.

Danielle Badenhorst

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parenting

F

orever glad we got an Isofix installed for the car seat, we unclipped her easily when we got home. I felt bare. It's just us. No paediatrician, no nurse, no staff, no breastfeeding consultants, no family members, just us. I've taken care of many sick children in the hospital before, but now for the first time it's my healthy tiny bundle. I know nothing.

My husband and I took turns through the night and did a high five dance the next morning when we realised we survived. However, the rest of the week took its toll on us.

In surgery you're used to being on call seven to eight times a month, meaning you are the go-to surgeon for your region for a full 36+ hours. You'll spend that whole time operating, taking consults, seeing clinic patients, and managing sick trauma patients. So for the first three nights being ''on call''

Night one went like a breeze, she adjusted well to the NICU schedule, and we tried to recreate it to the last detail.

1

for my own was a refreshing change. I managed well.

But, by the fourth night the sleep deprivation really set in, and I had to work on a mindset shift. Adrenalin can only take you so far and I needed to prepare for this caffeine deprived marathon ahead.

They say try to sleep when the baby sleeps, and for the first time I took the advice to heart, along with others we've acquired. Here are some helpful tips on how to navigate the first week home.

Invest in the best baby monitor you can afford

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is a much dreaded consequence of many unknown factors.

There are many theories, but alas, mostly no cause is found. However, Create a decent sleep environment for the partner who having a monitor to help you with is not taking the graveyard shift regulating her breathing patterns made My husband and I took turns during the night for night feeds. Usually we a big difference. We invested in a baby decided by around 8pm who was the most tired. That person got to sleep monitor system, which includes a first and then we swopped over at around 1am depending on when she breathing monitor pad and a camera. woke again.

It gave us such peace of mind knowing We decided early on that our newborn would sleep in her own nursery. the monitor manages most of your This way at least one of us would go into much needed REM sleep. When paranoia. baby wakes, you crawl out of bed, baby monitor to silent mode, and close the bedroom door and nursery door on your way out.

2

Online grocery delivery services

3

One of the few advantages of lockdown is the boom in online grocery delivery options. For a nominal fee you can have fresh produce delivered to your doorstep in an hour. This made a big difference for us in the first week and made sure we were fed and healthy in the first few days after our discharge.

This routine made a tremendous difference to our sanity and quality of sleep.

The consequences of not eating well will easily be seen in your breastmilk production.

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parenting

4

Get a decent breast pump, both manual and electric

Expressing breastmilk after feeding really helped my milk production in the first week (not that it’s been easy, my milk production took two months to catch up).

Using a quality pump made a big difference. I got my hands on a hospital grade pump. Moms, you get what you pay for so invest in the best.

You’ll still spend many hours hooked to a pump, so make it efficient and hands-free with the help of a pumping bra.

At night engorged breasts might wake you up in between feeds. If you choose to ignore it, it might reward your lack of effort with early signs of mastitis.

You can keep a handheld pump ready at your bedside for a quick pumping session to relieve the pressure.

Pacing yourself

5

I was ready for the sprint only to find out I wouldn‘t last the marathon.

Just like your baby learns to self-soothe, I‘m also working on my sleep hygiene to facilitate falling back asleep as efficiently as I possibly can.

Put your phone away as soon as you get into bed. If the midnight munchies strike, make sure there’s a high protein, low calorie shake handy and drink plenty of water.

6

Establish and maintain a routine early on, until you feel confident to deviate

We followed a few high-impact baby books, and this really helped us as first time parents to understand sensory overload with our newborn.

In my third trimester I was preparing for my surgery exams, so I never got to read them antenatally.

But my husband read to us aloud while I was in labour, and it was a nice distraction. Even the maternity sister said she learnt a thing or two.

Once your routine is established (feeding three hourly, creating a calm space, bedtime routines, etc), you can start to take small liberties and see if baby adjusts well to them. That being said, don’t be too ambitious in the early days.

Having a newborn is much harder than we’ve anticipated.

None of our friends with kids could have emphasised enough how time consuming such a little one can be.

However, nobody can prepare you for the instant burst of love you feel when you finally meet your newborn for the first time.

Try out these newborn hacks, they helped us survive the first week with minimal injuries. 

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Constipation can leave Constipation can leave your little one’s tummy feeling your little one’s tummy feeling 1 bloated and uncomfortable. bloated and uncomfortable.1 When in need of relief from When in needtrust of relief from constipation, LACSON. constipation, trust LACSON.

1. Healthline. Wells D. Abdominal Pain And Constipation. [updated 2019 March 07; cited 2020 July 31]. Available from https://www.healthline.com/ 1.

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Healthline.

Healthline. Wells Wells D. D. Abdominal Abdominal Pain Pain And And Constipation. [updated 2019 2019 health/abdominal-pain-and-constipation 2. Constipation.

Nielsen’s Total[updated SA, Liquid March March 07; 07;data cited cited 2020 July July 31].

31]. Available Available from from https://www.healthline.com/ https://www.healthline.com/ Laxative by2020 brand in value, June 2020. health/abdominal-pain-and-constipation health/abdominal-pain-and-constipation 2.

2. Nielsen’s Nielsen’s Total Total SA, SA, Liquid Liquid S0 LACSON. Reg. No.:in Each 5 ml of syrup contains Laxative Laxative data data by by brand brand inZ/11.5/0055. value, value, June June 2020.

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3,3 g of lactulose 3,3 g of lactulose

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Each Each 55 ml ml ofowned syrup syrup contains contains to the Aspen Group of companies. © 2021 Aspen Group of companies . .

Trademarks Trademarks are are owned owned by byReg. or or licensed licensed or its licensor. All rights reserved. Pharmacare Limited. Co. to to the the Aspen Aspen Group Group of ofHealthcare companies. companies.Park, © © 2021 2021 Aspen Aspen Group Group of companies companies No.:1898/000252/06.

Woodlands Drive,of Woodmead, or or its its licensor. licensor.

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Pharmacare Pharmacare Limited.

Limited. Co. Co. Reg. Reg. 2191.

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No.:1898/000252/06. Healthcare Healthcare Park, Park, Woodlands Woodlands Drive, Drive, Woodmead, Woodmead, 2191.

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by Aspen Pharmacare Hotline 0800 122 912 www.aspenpharma.com Hotline 0800 122 912

parenting

The dangers of ‘sharenting’ –

parents who share too much Data protection of children’s information requires a special level of caution. It is alarming that often parents are the ones who share this information freely without being fully aware of the impact it may have on their children’s privacy and their safety.

“S

harenting is a term that has evolved to describe parents who share too much information about their children on social media,” explains Michelle Dickens, CEO of TPN Credit Bureau. “It is estimated that by 2030, sharenting could account for up to 7 million incidents of identity theft. While we are aware that children are targeted online, we don’t always realise that our own actions could be contributing to the problem.”

It is estimated that by 2030, 'sharenting' could account for up to 7 million incidents of identity theft.

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parenting Schools implement new restrictions Schools and educational organisations are at the forefront of the shift in the level of caution required to protect children’s information. Both parents and teachers play a critical role in ensuring that schools are compliant with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), and this is why schools have recently implemented stricter control over the sharing of images and information on their platforms.

“POPIA, which became enforceable in July 2021, does not stop parents and teachers from communicating but it does require all parties to know what they

can and can’t share to avoid social media risk in the school environment,” clarifies Dickens.

to get written consent in the event that you need to provide that evidence at a later stage,” says Dickens.

The POPI Act prohibits the distribution of personal information, including images of people, without their consent.

That means that schools can no longer use photographs of learners in their marketing material or post photographs online without the consent of the child’s parent or guardian - and they need to be able to prove that consent.

If schools plan to use photographs of learners on their website, Facebook or on Instagram, she adds, they need to specifically ask parents or guardians to consent to the images being used or risk being in contravention of POPI.

“Although POPI does not require this consent to be in writing, it is a good idea

“A good rule of thumb is to treat all information as confidential and before you share anything, think about the implications and the potential for future harm,” says Dickens.

Staying safe online

Dickens provides four crucial guidelines to ensure children are using the internet safely.

1.

Set all social media platforms, both for parents and children, to private mode.

2.

Where possible, disable location services as criminals use this information to target children’s physical whereabouts to find out where they go to school, their age and their names. In particular, don’t allow access to public Wi-Fi services as this could compromise private and financial information.

3.

Ask children for their consent before posting any photographs or private information on the internet.

It’s very important that children are educated about what they can and can’t post and are empowered to take responsibility. They need to understand the implications of posting unauthorised information on social media platforms, as well as the rules around posting photographs of themselves.

4.

Know and understand the platforms your children use. Sexual predators use social media platforms to exploit, compel, recruit and spread child sexual abuse material. Report any suspected abuse to the police and child protection services immediately. 

Michelle Dickens, CEO of TPN Credit Bureau www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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wet n wild 10 Pan Eyeshadow Palettes | Available at Clicks

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Umberto Giannini Grow Mask Hemp, Coconut & Shea | Available at Clicks

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3 Barrel Hair Curler – Pink | Available online at www.nvjskinandhealth.co.za

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Marc Anthony Complete Color Care Purple Shampoo | Available at Clicks

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safety first

A day at the

beach

With sizzling summer temperatures, a usual pastime for many is to cool off by spending a day at beach. But, did you know that according to reports, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death in South Africa? Here are a few tips on how to keep your kids safe at the beach.

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safety first

Frolicking in the waves is a great way to cool off, and building sandcastles remains a firm favourite activity for kids. While the beach offers a great day out, it is critical that we think ahead, be prepared for any incident and be extra vigilant when at the beach.

Prepare for the day at the beach

Speak to your children ahead of time about the potential dangers of being at the beach – chances are that once kids arrive at the destination their focus will be solely on having fun. The discussions about beach safety should include instructions such as remaining near parents or caregivers and not wandering off. This chat can also be a fun, learning experience where you can educate your children about marine life that can be found towards the shoreline and the different types of currents.

Even if children can swim, discuss with them that swimming in a pool is considerably different to being in the ocean – there is no wall to grab on to, currents can be strong and it’s difficult to see underwater.

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Scope it out

For a family beach day, plan to head to a beach where lifeguards are stationed.

Set boundaries for children to adhere to so that they will always be in the line of vision of adults.

Beach flags

Not all areas of the beach are considered safe for swimming – look out for flags to see which spot is a demarcated swim zone. Even if an area is considered a ‘swimming area’, parents still need to keep a strict eye on kids.

Life jackets

It is advisable that children always wear a life jacket even if they are only in the shallow end – waves can sometimes catch adults and children by surprise and drag them out. A life jacket will help keep a child afloat.

Be sun smart

Many beaches don’t have shaded spots – or if there are they are taken up pretty quickly. Pack a beach umbrella, and also ensure that the entire family is using a good sunscreen and wide brimmed hats to help protect them from the sun’s rays.

d Stay hydrate

and ensure Pack a cooler and adults that children ay nt water to st drink sufficie can add a bit hydrated. You ing water by add of flavour to ave her tip is to h in fr uit. Anot on el m er as wat snacks such ted.  h to stay ydra

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saving

Turn your kids into

bargain hunters not impulse buyers According to a study by Invesp, 84% of shoppers admitted to making impulse purchases when shopping – with 8 out of 10 impulse buys being made in-store as opposed to online. The likelihood of making an impulse buy is sure to increase when shopping with your children, as they spot items they are interested in throughout the store. Is giving in to these requests teaching your children negative spending and saving habits?

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saving

A

frican retail giant, Game’s 2021 price perception survey found that over 80% of shoppers were prioritising bargain hunting more so now than they did a year ago – largely due to the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We have seen a massive shift in the shopping and spending behaviours of our customers.

There is an increased appetite for specials and deals across all our categories – especially essentials like groceries,” explains Katherine Madley, Vice President of Marketing at Game.

With the consumer budget under more strain than ever before, responsible spending saving habits are increasingly important. Curbing impulse buying habits is an easy and effective way to ensure you are sticking to your monthly budget and spending within your means. As a responsible retailer, Game has looked into ways that parents can instill a culture of healthy habits for their children in this regard – whether shopping in-store or online.

Give kids responsibility

Allow children to take responsibility when going shopping, whether it is to ensure you are getting all the items on the list or making sure you do not exceed your shopping budget for the day. This will give them practical experience in managing a budget, and ensure they are focused on planned purchases rather than impulse purchases.

Do your research

Teaching your children to shop around for the best deal, rather than buying on impulse, is an incredibly important lesson for them to learn.

Game’s survey found that while 64% of consumers compare prices

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Teaching your children to shop around for the best deal, rather than buying on impulse, is an incredibly important lesson for them to learn. online when bargain hunting, a larger percentage (55%) are using printed leaflets than those carrying out Google searches.

The survey also showed that price comparison programmes are important, with 75% of respondents saying they see the value in comparing prices to receive 10% back on the difference, with Game’s Price Beat Promise, for example.

Define wants and needs

When children spot items they want in store, it may be an opportune time to talk to them about the difference between wants and needs. Establishing how much they’d need to save for their wants can make it a rewarding experience when they are able to make the purchase.

Game’s survey showed the importance of essential items in today’s economy, with consumers looking to save predominantly on groceries, baby products and furniture, where household income was less than R2 000. Interestingly, groceries remained a key driver for those with household incomes between R10 000 and R20 000.

Save your savings

Only 25% of shoppers are putting retailrelated savings into a savings account, while the majority are spending these

on extra items they need for their homes – no matter their monthly household income. Encouraging your children to save these amounts, no matter how small, can build healthy saving habits and help them to reach their financial goals rather than giving into impulse purchasing for immediate gratification.

Establish ground rules

Establishing ground rules upfront with your children before going shopping can curb impulse buying by setting clear boundaries. Game is assisting its customers to teach children and teenagers the pitfalls of impulse buying and has created a downloadable Shopping Agreement that children and their parents can sign that looks to promote responsible shopping and spending habits.

Game has also partnered with Nicolette Mashile, author of Coco the Money Bunny – a children’s book that looks to teach children about money – as part of its Simply Save campaign.

“An important part of teaching children about money and the best ways to make it work for them, is teaching them about how best to spend and save their money,” says Mashile. “This agreement is aimed at setting clear boundaries and expectations around shopping trips and ensuring that parents and their children are clear on the rules around spending and saving. This is a way to teach these lessons through positive reinforcement.”

“In light of Savings Month, and as a responsible retailer, Game is focused on assisting our customers in ensuring they are shopping smart, spending responsibly and saving as much as they can,” concludes Madley.  www.gamestores.co.za

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skincare

Is your skin

dry or dehydrated?

It’s one of the most searched for skincare phrases online; “Is my skin dry or dehydrated?”

“W

hile we tend to use the terms dry skin and dehydrated skin interchangeably, they’re actually distinctly different from one another,” explains Clere skincare Brand Manager Su-Marie Annandale.

Dry skin is a skin type, like oily or combination skin, where the complexion lacks oils, or lipids, so it takes on a more flaky, dry appearance. If you have dry skin, you may also notice your skin develops a scaly appearance, white flakes, redness or irritation and an increased incidence of psoriasis, eczema, or dermatitis.

to anyone, regardless of skin type – people with oily or combination skin can experience dehydration. Dehydrated skin typically looks dull and can show premature signs of ageing, like surface wrinkles and loss of elasticity. You may also notice darker circles under your eyes or a general tired eye appearance, itchiness, dullness and more sensitive fine lines and wrinkles.

Annandale says a great way to tell if your

skin is dehydrated is to do the pinch test.

She adds that while this test isn’t definitive, it’s a good way to start thinking about your skin from the inside out: • Pinch a small amount of skin on your cheek, abdomen, chest, or the back of your hand and hold for a few seconds.

• If your skin snaps back, it’s likely not dehydrated.

• If it takes a few moments to bounce back, it’s likely dehydrated.

• Repeat in other areas if you’d like.

Dehydrated skin on the other hand is a skin condition that occurs when there’s a lack of water in the skin. This can happen

What does dry skin and dehydrated skin need?

For dry skin, keep on moisturising.

Frequent moisturising helps dry skin retain water and maintain a proper level of hydration. The key to addressing dry skin is finding products that help you lock in moisture, especially overnight. Choose thicker, moisturising creams. Annandale says that for dry skin you can also try using a humidifier for added moisture.

For dehydrated skin, oral hydration is a must because it’s adding water into your complexion from the inside. You can also incorporate water-rich foods into your diet, such as watermelon, strawberries, cucumber, and celery. Another easy tip? Carry around a water mist, like rose water.

“If you suffer from dehydrated skin, you want to opt for products that contain humectants. Humectants, such as glycerine, an ingredient present in all of our formulations, help to reduce water loss from the skin,” concludes Annandale. 

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DIY gardening

Raising

'Generation Green' A garden that invites, inspires and involves your kids is an easy win for team parenting and Mother Nature too. Here’s some summer inspiration to help you grow the next Generation Green and to fully take advantage of nature’s organic classroom. You can easily create the ultimate kid-friendly garden, filled with adventure and exploration that supports developing senses, motor skills, and a connection with the Earth.

A stimulating sensory experience Independent play and the freedom for exploration-based learning is an important part of childhood. From edible pots to wind chimes and treacherous lava floors, there is something to appeal to every child’s interest. Remember moms and dads, the goal is to encourage more of a ‘hands-on’ approach and less ‘don’t touch’. With inviting play areas and clearly marked pots, kids can connect with their senses and imagination without limitations, and you can rest assured that your prized roses are safe from inquisitive little fingers.

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DIY gardening 1. Fun at first sight: A garden that looks visibly interesting with a variety of colours, textures, and a few intriguing items will get their curiosity going. Create an obstacle course by incorporating different-sized tree stumps or rocks as stepping-stones over some dangerous lava looking succulents and spikey grass.

Plant picks: Rooiblaarplakkie (Kalanchoe sexangularis) is a hardy succulent, perfect as a lava substitute. Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are big, bold, and beautiful cut flowers. Starlight grass (Anthericum) brings in strong texture and contrast for the rugged garden warrior.

Monkey see, monkey play! Instead of a standard wooden jungle gym, get creative with something totally unique. There are several companies that can provide custom requests, so think about what your child would really enjoy. Perhaps they like to climb high and swing on bars, or maybe they like hiding spots with a cooking/ experiment station.

2.

3. The science of smell: Encouraging kids to literally stop and smell the flowers is essential in cultivating an ethos of appreciation and conservation in the new generation. Creating a DIY potpourri experimentation station is a hands-on strategy to develop their noses while opening a space for real connection and engagement with organic floral scents.

Sounds that soothe: A DIY hand shaker project with some scavenged dried seeds or stones inside empty spice bottles may motivate the kinaesthetically inclined child to engage their sense of sound. Wind chimes create an ambient, soothing atmosphere in the garden, perfect for calming busy bodies. A water feature also helps encourage more gentle playtime and promotes an awareness of subtle and comforting sounds.

Singsong pipes: Here’s a cost-effective idea for the music-loving child. Create a hanging metal pipe curtain against a wall or hanging from a tree branch. Use different sized poles and include a mystery music box nearby with drumsticks and shakers. Kids can start a band in the backyard and have fun developing their love of music and rhythm. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Plant picks: Angel's Trumpet (Brugmansia) for kids who like to get right under and in there. Plumerias (Frangipani, Pua Melia) are as pretty as their perfume. Picking petals from Star Jasmine is fantastic for fine motor skills. Rosemary, lavender, and mint are tried favourites too.

A tepee braai: This idea is great for the bigger family and for when friends come over. It’s super easy to build a couple of tepees from poles and plastic tarp/canvas. Equip each tepee with a little braai in the front and allow the kids to cook their own food. Nothing quite engages our sense of Angel's Trumpet (Brugmansia) smell like a lekker SA braai; just make sure to keep an eye on your chefs. Kids will love eating their meal inside their awesome tepees too.

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DIY gardening 4.

Tasting is terrific:

Grouping edible flowers, berries, and herbs together in a large container allows kids safe and easy access to taste and appreciate some home grown goodness. Get the kids to pick herbs for dinner, give them the chore of watering the edible garden, or simply allow them free reign to cook up some tasty herb and mud cakes for the fairies.

Plant picks: Basil is a taste explosion and good for stimulating little pallets. Gooseberries are fun to pick and loaded with nutrients.

Wild Malva (Pelargonium culallatum) is a colourful treat because who wouldn’t want to eat a flower! And of course, there are strawberries, which can please even the fussiest of eaters.

Treats from the dragon’s lair: Harvesting food from a themed edible garden/container becomes a tasty imagination-fuelled quest. You can build a raised wooden food garden shaped and painted like a dragon, for example, or a scary monster. Perhaps kids need to take a handful of compost as a peace offering to the dragon, and they must return with a few removed weeds.

Remember to include a basket for them to gather yummies in.

5. Getting in touch: Let’s reward curiosity by welcoming your child’s obsession to touch everything. A row of varying sized and angled PVC pipes against a wall provides endless opportunities for car races and stick probing. In addition, halved horizontal pipes make great space-saving vertical gardens, which you can fill with a variety of spikey, smooth, furry and rough foliage.

Plant picks: Most aloes are nice and spikey with enough hardiness to withstand a little educational probing. Lamb’s ear (Stachys byzantina) is a lovely choice for something furry. Try bringing in some Asparagus Fern (Asparagus plumosus) for a fine-feeling climber between your pipe-play wall.

Feel the beach vibes: Reinvent the standard sandpit. Get the kids excited about outside by introducing something like a pretend beach day. Dig a decent sized hole, layer with plastic sheeting, and then fill with soft beach sand. Throw in a couple of beach toys, ice cream for bribery, and sunscreen to bring back holiday memories. Don’t forget a few buckets of 'seawater'.

No one knows your child as you do, so put those creative green fingers to work and remember – if you build it, they will come.

Incorporate the plant picks and playtime ideas into your garden – your kids' senses will flourish and so too will their connection with our earth. Here’s to the next generation of passionate, conscious gardeners. 

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For more gardening tips and 'greenspiration' visit the Life is a Garden website www.lifeisagarden.co.za

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kicks for kids

Help the bee get to the flower

Answers

Find 6 differences

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kicks for kids

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recipes

Festive Gammon with

Spiced Roasted Plums

By Justine Drake SERVES: 6

Ingredients

• 8 plums, halved • Juice of 2 oranges • 3cm knob ginger, grated • 1 teaspoon (5ml) 5-spice powder • 2 star anise • 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) brown sugar (depending on sweetness of plums)

Gammon

• 1.2kg gammon • 1.5 litres ginger beer • 1 large onion • 2 bay leaves • 3cm knob ginger, sliced

Glaze

• ¼ cup (60 ml) honey • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) sriracha • 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Method

1. Place plums in a snug fitting roasting pan.

2. Mix orange juice, ginger, 5-spice, star-anise and sugar together and pour over plums.

3. Roast in a preheated 200°C oven until plums are tender and sticky, about 25 minutes.

Gammon:

1. Place all ingredients in a large pot. Top up with water if necessary to cover gammon if necessary. Bring to the boil, then cover and reduce to a simmer.

2. Simmer for 30 minutes per 500g. Drain and cool. Remove skin and score fat 5mm deep.

3. Mix glaze ingredients together and brush over gammon.

4. Grill to brown evenly.

5. Place on a platter and spoon room temperature plums around gammon.

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recipes

Nutty apple

and bacon salad

By Jenny Morris SERVES: 6 PREPARATION TIME: 10 MIN COOKING TIME: 10 MIN

Ingredients

• 100g blanched green beans, cut into three • 2 crisp Granny Smith apples, cut into chunks • 6 sticks celery, sliced at an angle • 1 cup walnuts, roasted • 1 cup whole almonds, roasted • 1 cup sultanas • 250g crisply fried bacon, chopped small • 3 spring onions, sliced • Mustard Maple Dressing • 1 teaspoon hot English mustard • 2 cloves garlic, crushed • 1 cup natural yoghurt • 2 tablespoons maple syrup • ½ cup olive oil • 50g feta cheese

Instructions

Toss all the salad ingredients together in a large bowl. Whizz the dressing ingredients in a food processor to blend, and stir through the salad to coat. Tumble onto a pretty platter and serve immediately.

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recipes Last minute

Christmas

Cake

Keep up the traditional fruit cake at Christmas time, but here is a more economical homegrown version that needs no ‘ripening’ beforehand.

Ina's Tip: The cake can be used the same day or the next or keep in the fridge for two weeks. It also freezes exceptionally well.

MAKES 1 X 30CM CAKE OR 12 TO 16 LARGE MUFFIN OR TUNA-TIN SIZE MINI CAKES.

Ingredients for the cake batter

• 2 rooibos tea bags • 2 cups (500ml) boiling water • 500g dried fruit cake mix • 3 extra large eggs, at room temperature • 1 cup (250ml) canola oil • 1 ¼ cups (310ml) soaked water from the fruit • 1 x 650g Ina Paarman’s Chocolate Cake Mix • 2 tablespoons (30ml) mixed spice • 1 tablespoon (15ml) cinnamon • 200g glace cherries, cut in half • 100g pecan nuts, chopped • ½ cup (125ml) brandy

Ingredients for white glacé icing

• 1 x 250g Ina Paarman’s Vanilla Icing Kit • 4 tablespoons (60ml) milk powder or cremora • 2 teaspoons (10ml) butter • ¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice • a little boiling water

Method

1. Place the tea bags into a large measuring jug and add 2 cups (500ml) of boiling water.

Leave to draw for 5 minutes. Squeeze out tea bags and add cake fruit.

2. Leave to soak for 30 minutes or longer. Drain but reserve 1 ¼ cups (310ml) of the soaked water for mixing the cake.

3. Adjust the oven rack to one slot below the middle. Preheat the oven to 170°C. Use one 30 x 7 cm round cake tin or 12 to 16 smaller containers. Use deep large muffin pans. Butter tins and line bases with baking paper.

4. Beat the eggs and oil. Add the 1 ¼ cups (310ml) of reserved soaked water and beat it in. Add the dry mix, the mixed spice and cinnamon. Stir with a spatula until roughly blended.

5. Add the fruit mixture, cherries and nuts. Fold everything in by hand with a spatula until evenly blended.

6. Fill the pans 2-3cm from the top. Bake large cake for 1½ hours and smaller cakes for ± 45-50 minutes.

7. As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour brandy over and leave to completely cool in the pan for 20 minutes and then turn out.

8. Wrap in foil before storing in an airtight container.

Method for white glacé icing

1. For this icing our Vanilla Icing gives a much better result than plain icing sugar. Keep the nozzle to use for another time.

2. Sift the icing mix and milk powder together.

3. Heat butter and lemon juice in the microwave on high for 45 seconds. Gradually add to the sifted mixture while mixing with a whisk.

4. You should get a thick, but still runny mixture that coats the back of a spoon. If too thick add a little boiling water (1 tablespoon), use immediately otherwise it thickens again.

5. Spoon icing over the cakes and encourage it to run over the sides.

6. Decorate with any small Christmas decorations. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Variation – glacé fruit topping

• 4 tablespoons (60ml) fine apricot jam • 250g assorted glacé fruits • ± 6 stalk cherries in maraschino • ± 1 metre red ribbon • 3 red topped florist pins 1. Melt the jam in the microwave for ± 30 seconds.

2. Cut the glacé fruit into smaller wedges except for the cherries and toss with the warm jam to glaze the fruit. If is still looks too sugary, microwave for ± 30 seconds.

3. Arrange the fruit on the cake.

4. Top with the cherries and secure the ribbon around the cake with the florist pins.

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book reviews – Pearson Smart-Kids Mathematics Skills Grade 1-6

Smart-Kids Skills Workbooks for Grades 1-6 target key areas of the South African mathematics curriculum where children often need extra help or extension. These include fractions, time, number bonds, multiplying, dividing, story sum, number patters, data handling, maps and grids and geometric patterns. (Format: Paperback)

Smart-Kids Am I ready for school?

Written and reviewed by a team of experienced South African teachers, occupational therapists, speech therapists and physiotherapists, Smart-Kids Am I ready for school? is perfect for making sure your child is ready for primary school.

Smart-Kids Language Skills Grade 1-6

Helpful ideas and advice combined with colourful and stimulating activities test emotional, physical and mental readiness. The activities cover important developmental aspects, such as body image; perception of self, others and the environment; memory; coordination; and speech and hearing. The detailed notes with each activity explain the concepts and suggest extension activities for extra practice.

(Format: Paperback)

Smart-Kids Mathematics Workbooks Grade R-7

Smart-Kids Skills Workbooks for Grades 1-6 target key areas of the South African English and Afrikaans curriculum where children often need extra help or extension. These include phonics and spelling, comprehensions and handwriting. (Format: Paperback)

Children love learning with Smart-Kids Mathematics Workbooks. These activity books include colourful illustrations and stickers, interesting activities that encourage regular practice, fun-filled scenes and entertaining characters.

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(Format: Paperback)

Smart-Kids Language Workbooks Grade 1-7

Children love learning with Smart-Kids English and Afrikaans workbooks. These activity books include colourful illustrations and stickers, interesting activities that encourage regular practice, fun-filled scenes and entertaining characters.

Written by experienced South African teachers who understand what children love to read/write about and where kids require extra language practice.

(Format: Paperback)

Available in

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Afrikaans as

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Make learning child’s play!

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