Child (October 2020)

The magazine for parents

CHiLD ISSUE 69, October 2020

EDUCATION IN THE TIME OF COVID-19

STAYING SAFE

OVERCOMING ANXIETY DAPHNE BOOK LAUNCH

PLUS: recipes, internet safety and parenting tips

CHiLD ISSUE 69 October 3, 2020

Adapting to the new scholastic year

Contents Features 4 Education: Parents express concerns, hopes 8 Health: Paediatrician’s advice to stay safe 12 Parenting: Postitive co-parenting 14 Nurture: Embracing a growth mindset 18 Counselling: Overcoming anxiety and fears 22 Books: Launch of Daphne Caruana Galizia picture book 26 Technology: Internet safety tips 28 Recipes: Dairy-fee ideas

Regulars 30 Shop window: The best of goods and services

Correspondence to the editor may be sent to: The Executive Editor, Child Magazine, Times of Malta, Triq l-Intornjatur, Mrieħel, BKR 3000, or send an e-mail to stephanie.fsadni@timesofmalta.com

Executive Editor Stephanie Fsadni Publisher Allied Newspapers Limited Printing Progress Press Limited Production Allied Newspapers Limited Contributors Charlene Aquilina, Duncan Barry, Maria Borg, Donna Buttigieg, Sandy Calleja Portelli, Joanne Cocks, Karen Decelis, Claire Mallia. Design Krista Bugeja Advertising Sales Amanda Gauci (tel: 2276 4332; e-mail: amanda.gauci@timesofmalta.com).

All rights reserved. © 2020 Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publishers is prohibited.

The opening of schools this year has been the subject of heated debate. Many parents have voiced concerns on the possibility of their children contracting COVID-19 once they return to school and the risk of transmitting the virus to the family and the community.

Educators too have expressed their worries and together with the authorities have scrambled to implement the best possible measures to ensure schools will be as safe as possible.

Parents, educators and the authorities, however, surely agree on one thing: that children must not lose out on their education.

Whether it happens in class, online or whether one decides and affords to home-school their children, it is important they keep progressing in their scholastic path, whatever their age and level.

After all, education is a fundamental human right.

Some parents opened up to Child, sharing their experiences during the school closures and their thoughts, feelings and hopes for the upcoming scholastic year. They all seem reassured their children’s education will not suffer as a consequence of the pandemic, but are rather concerned their children will miss out on other aspects considered important for their development, such as quality social interaction.

Just like adults, children may also suffer from anxiety and fear.

However, parents may help them overcome this, as a counsellor with the Malta Association of the Counselling Profession tells Child.

Of course, there is also the risk children might get sick and parents will need help to realise whether their children would have contracted COVID-19, influenza or other infections.

Paediatrician Joseph Mizzi gives some indications and advice but he has one key suggestion: to keep the children at home if they get sick, however mild their symptoms are.

Pandemic apart, among other topics, this issue of Child explains the concept of a ‘growth mindset’, where children are taught how their brain is a muscle that can be exercised and grow so it keeps on learning, and delves into the subject of positive co-parenting.

And in an interview, London-based author and publisher Gattaldo says how he aims to spread the story and message of Daphne Caruana Galizia through a picture book, which will hit the book shelves this month, three years after the journalist’s assassination. He also hopes the book will inspire children to always seek the truth and perhaps also become journalists.

Any new scholastic year comes with challenges attached – and this one will have the added doubts and fears of a new ‘normality’.

Everyone will need to adapt to new schooling patterns, methods and safety measures, but in the end, for the sake of our safety and children's education, it is all worth it.

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EDUCATION

Adapting to change COVID-19 has wreaked havoc in everyone’s daily routine but it has particularly affected children’s education and their families’ lives.

Some parents open up to Child, sharing their experiences and current thoughts, feelings and concerns about the upcoming scholastic year.

JOANNE COCKS It’s that time of the year when I look forward to the routine which a new school year tends to bring with it. However, that’s not the case this year.

For this year everything has been overshadowed by coronavirus, a pandemic that wreaked havoc worldwide.

It also disrupted the scholastic year, with schools shutting their doors abruptly in March. Overnight, there I was working from home, alongside a teenager who had to follow lessons online.

His school went into overdrive when it shut from March 13, and by the following Monday morning it had a complete set-up catering for students of all ages.

Matthew, my son, was using Microsoft Teams for most of his ‘live’ lessons.

Those three months of online lessons were a real eye-opener. I learnt so much about my son, his concentration span and the possibilities of remote learning.

Today’s teenagers live and breathe technology. So, for him, following lessons online was not an issue. I realised, however, that he could be easily distracted, maybe by a message sent from a friend who did not have a lesson at the time, a pop-up from a game or if the subject being covered was not his favourite.

God knows how many times I stopped him from chatting with friends during a lesson. I wanted him to appreciate that although his camera was not always on, he had to learn to be responsible and act as though he 4 CHiLD OCTOBER 2020

Matthew, 14, following online lessons during the school closures.

“I wanted him to appreciate that although his camera was not always on, he had to learn to be responsible and act as though he were in class”

were in class. I learnt to appreciate more the role of a teacher who every day has to face not one but a whole class of kids and keep them focused and interested in the lesson.

Matthew had grown so much by the end of the school year and a number of online lessons later. He had embraced the concept of online lessons and filing homework electronically. Although he does not admit it, I

EDUCATION

MARIA BORG

know that he missed meeting his friends, kicking ball in the school ground and doing the stuff that teenagers usually do.

So I thought that he’d be looking forward to the start of the school year.

And once again his school has come up with different options to set parents’ minds at rest and to try create the safest environment for the children when they set foot in school again.

The school has also set in motion a plan that allows students to stay home and follow lessons that are live-streamed from the classroom.

They will have to be actively involved even if they decide to remain home, having to keep their camera on and make use of headphones.

When discussing the school’s proposals, Matthew said he’d prefer to stay home rather than be in a ‘bubble’ with kids who are not his best friends and who do not share his same interests. He believes he did well in a number of subjects when following lessons remotely from home. I think otherwise. I believe that children should be at school, in class with their mates and not secluded at home in front of a screen.

But then my maternal instinct kicks in, wanting to protect him and make sure nothing bad befalls him.

This year, the questions and doubts about how safe it is to return to school are neverending, starting from school transport to how safe it is for Matthew to be with hundreds of other children.

One thing is for sure, life will never be how it was before last March. We all need to adapt. I take strength from the teenager in the house and his down-to-earth way at looking at life to help me cope with what is going on around us and accept this change.

I am the mother of four children – the eldest a teacher and the youngest attends a church school.

When schools shut their doors in March, online teaching started immediately.

All lessons took place online but did not follow a regular timetable, which I felt was a slight disadvantage and did not benefit my youngest son fully. All the online classes required the children to participate fully, and although he did not always leave the camera on, he still had to make his presence felt.

He was still given homework which had to be delivered on a deadline and which was e-mailed back to him after being corrected. Extra work for particular topics, including maths and art, were also given.

“Whatever happens, I know that at least my son’s education will not suffer in such a crucial year” The school used to regularly update me about my son’s progress and informed me if he did not submit any work on time or presented shoddy work.

He missed his school friends terribly and a computer screen or live lesson was definitely not the same as actually being in the same class or playing a game of football in the school grounds.

The school, and the teachers, especially, were very understanding and communicated with the students, supporting them not only academically but also emotionally.

On the other side of the coin, my eldest daughter is an early years teacher in a state school. State teachers were not obliged to offer online lessons and so she found it very difficult to work in such a cold environment.

She took a personal initiative to create recorded videos, online lessons, storytelling, send them homework and corrected work, answer sheets and one-to-one sessions with any students who were struggling throughout the partial lockdown.

She particularly missed the physical contact with her five- to six-year-olds who even brought tears to her eyes with the messages they sent her personally.

As for the upcoming scholastic year, I can already see a massive difference between how church schools and state schools are preparing once they open their doors.

My son’s school has implemented a number of safety measures and precautions to try and safeguard our children as much as possible.

My daughter, on the other hand, was still in the dark [until the time of writing] even as regards where she’d be teaching, a few days before the start of the new scholastic year.

Whatever happens, I know that at least my son’s education will not suffer in such a crucial year, since even if the school had to close its doors again because of the pandemic, this time round, all lessons will be given online following a regular timetable.

It’s now just a case of wait and see what this year will bring.

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EDUCATION

Mia, 8, happy to have finished a school activity during the partial lockdown.

DUNCAN BARRY Explaining to a child that he or she must engage in social distancing isn’t so easy for them to understand, however, in times like these, what is easy?

During the peak of COVID-19, my wife was faced with the task of explaining the daily lessons to our daughter, Mia, along with the fact that she had to cope with tonnes of homework to make up for lost time at school. Luckily, in our case, my wife has the necessary skills to create resources for Mia, who is eight years old.

Keeping her and her younger sister Nina inside all day long drove them − and us − nuts but the positive aspect was that we all had some quality time together, which isn’t much the case when parents are working and children are at school most days.

Another positive aspect is that my daughter had individual attention, opposed to a classroom environment where one or two educators have to cope with up to 30 children.

Some lessons were delivered online which also helped but such lessons weren’t the order of the day at the time.

As much as we understand that children must return to school, and that the school

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my daughter attends is putting measures in place to minimise the risk of infection, their return to school may complicate matters eventually.

If a case is found in a school or ‘bubble’, parents would have to go into quarantine with their children and other relatives. This may create work-related issues as parents who cannot work from home would have to miss work.

Apart from this, it will be difficult to leave children with relatives like elderly grandparents once school starts as one would be placing them at higher risk of infection.

The best thing is to play it by ear and monitor how things evolve once school starts. Online learning is an option if things were to get out of hand and I am sure educators are working round the clock to cater for Plan B, with the help of stakeholders and the government.

Schoolchildren in Germany started school last month and there are mixed reports, with some saying that schools haven’t seen any major coronavirus outbreaks.

I am sure this is just a phase that will pass sooner or later and, in the end, everyone would be able to say that he or she played a part in overturning this challenging situation. It’s just a question of time.

The eight-year-old getting creative with her paintbrushes.

EDUCATION CLAIRE MALLIA

Mia showing her younger sister Nina an educational science video.

Since schools closed in March, it hasn't been an easy time on many levels.

Quite frankly, I had considered the option of home-schooling my daughter Amira even before COVID-19 broke out.

However, being a sole caregiver, it is easier said than done. Even though social interaction is very important for adults and children alike, at times I do feel that too much pressure is being put on children in our educational system.

The instances of bullying and misunderstandings were neverending in the past two years. I sincerely believe that there is loads to be done with regards to the character formation, emotional wellbeing and the holistic well-being in general of our children. And this was the main reason for considering homeschooling.

I think children are being put under a lot of pressure and are facing comparisons from the early years. The number of children in each class is too much and, as a result, many of them are falling through the system.

Amira, 6, doing some schoolwork.

“No matter what you do, whether you wear a mask, a visor or sanitise your hands constantly, when it comes to your children, you still worry.

They are missing out on all accounts” Since March it has been a rollercoaster: certain jobs may be done from home and I’m all for promoting teleworking, for parents in general. However, things start taking their toll once you have to do your work and see to your children’s needs at the same time.

Partial lockdown was a shock for everyone. It wasn’t about not going out or staying home: it’s because children wanted to go to school and they couldn’t; parents had to work, take care of the house and their kids and never got any type of break.

Even now that the measures have been lifted, our mind is not at rest. No matter what you do, whether you wear a mask, a visor or sanitise your hands constantly, when it comes to your children, you still worry. They are missing out on all accounts. Speaking for myself, at least I know I can assist my child academically.

Once schools open, they cannot have a normal break-time, they cannot hug each other, play team sports, they will not be out of their classes for long periods, so in reality, there won’t be quality social interaction.

Anxiety, fear and worry are feelings which have been with us for months now. Children express them differently than adults but they still experience them.

This constant feeling of stress is not easy to get rid of. Children and adults alike have experienced losses throughout these months and self-care is of utmost importance!

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HEALTH

‘KEEP YOUR CHILDREN AT HOME IF THEY ARE SICK’ Parents whose children get sick in the coming months will need help to differentiate between COVID-19, influenza and other infections.

There is, however, one basic advice to avoid the spread of any kind of virus: keep the kids at home even if they present minor symptoms, paediatrician Joseph Mizzi tells Child. ince COVID-19 emerged, several studies have been published about the effect of the virus on children and authorities now have a clearer picture of these effects than they did a few months ago.

Statistics show that fewer children have been sick with the virus compared to adults, with most only presenting mild symptoms or no symptoms at all.

However, a “tiny” proportion can become severely ill, with some developing a Kawasaki-like illness.

“These children would require hospitalisation and, sometimes, intensive care. However, the death rate is very low in comparison with adults and also in comparison to the death rate due to other infections in children such as influenza,” paediatrician Joseph Mizzi says.

S

Those children identified as being vulnerable − that is young infants and children of all ages who have serious underlying medical conditions – are more likely to develop severe illness, “albeit the risk is still low”, Mizzi assures.

These conditions include asthma, diabetes, immunosuppression, heart and neurological problems. Obese children are also more likely to need hospitalisation.

“Parents should discuss their child’s risk with their doctor and the school authorities. For some of them distant learning would be the better option. Similarly, vulnerable educators should also be protected; they may be given the option to teach online rather than in class to avoid direct contact with children,” the paediatrician points out.

“Parents should discuss their child’s risk with their doctor and the school authorities”

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HEALTH Now that the influenza season is approaching, Mizzi admits that parents may find it difficult to realise whether their sick child would have caught influenza or coronavirus and that they would need help to distinguish between the two infectious diseases.

“The main symptoms of COVID-19 are high fever, a new, continuous cough, and a loss or change in the sense of smell or taste. However, COVID-19 may present with other symptoms that are similar to flu, colds, enteritis and even allergy,” he claims.

“Parents need help to differentiate between COVID-19, influenza and other infections. If their child is ill, they should consult with their doctor. The doctor will establish a diagnosis, give advise about treatment and decide if the child needs further investigations, including a swab test.”

“I am mostly worried that parents delay consulting with a doctor when their children are ill”

Parents should teach their children by example, showing them how to practise safety measures, including the correct use of a face mask.

Among the basic safety measures being implemented in schools are social distancing, the use of face masks and hand hygiene and the introduction of ‘bubbles’, whereby groups of children are taught together in both primary and secondary schools.

Mizzi says that all these measures are important but believes it will still be quite difficult to prevent physical contact, especially in younger children.

“In my opinion, the most important rule is this: sick children and educators should not attend school until they are fully recovered,” he says.

Parents have a very important role to play in this regard.

“I would advise parents to keep their children at home if they are sick, even if they have minor symptoms,” Mizzi suggests.

“Secondly, they should teach their children by precept and example how to practise safety measures, including the use of sanitiser and hand-washing, social distancing, the correct use of a face mask, and to cover sneezes and coughs; and thirdly, take a positive attitude and avoid undue stress.”

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Mizzi urges parents to always seek medical advice when their child is sick, irrespective of the fact that “we’re in the middle of a pandemic”.

“My greatest concern about children is not COVID-19 as such. I am mostly worried that parents delay consulting with a doctor when their children are ill. Late diagnosis of some diseases, for example meningitis and septicaemia, could result in dire consequences,” he says.

Guidelines for family doctors and paediatricians are presently being drawn up.

“I think that these guidelines will be very valuable in the present context. For instance, what are the criteria for requesting a swab test? And when can a child be certified fit to return to school?,” he asks.

Mizzi stresses the importance of the flu vaccine and believes that all children and adults should receive the flu vaccine, to protect each other and children (infants under six months of age) who cannot receive the vaccine.

He adds that like in the case of coronavirus, young children and children with chronic underlying medical conditions are more at risk of influenza-related complications and hospitalisation. In rare cases, influenza can lead to death among children too. In the US, 166 children died of flu in the 2019/20 season, compared to just over 100 who died of COVID-19.

On a more positive note, Mizzi says that over the past months, there has been a significant decrease in the number of infectious illnesses in children, such as colds, hand-footand-mouth disease, chickenpox and gastroenteritis.

HEALTH

“Together we can overcome the challenges brought about by COVID-19”

By getting the flu vaccine, children and adults protect each other and children (infants under six months of age) who cannot receive the vaccine.

“Presumably, this trend will continue in the coming months. The same measures intended to limit the spread of coronavirus also protect against other infections,” he observes.

As a father, Mizzi appreciates the fact that parents are currently apprehensive about school reopenings.

“There is no question that school in itself increases the risk of infection. But we must also keep in mind the crucial importance of school for our children’s education and their psychological and social development. My son told me that at first he was happy when school was closed but now he longs to return to school to meet his friends and teachers.

I share his yearning,” he says.

“Since the schools were closed last March, I have come to a deeper appreciation of the essential role of teachers in our children’s education and development. Sincere thanks to all educators.”

He has one last word of encouragement for parents: “Together we can overcome the challenges brought about

by COVID-19. As parents we should show respect to the school authorities and fully cooperate with them. Genuine communication between all parties will come a long way to resolve the problems that will crop up along the way.”

Basic advice to minimise the spread of infection • Monitor your children’s health; keep them at home if unwell.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water or apply a sanitiser. Do not touch your face with unwashed hands.

• Avoid close contact with other people.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a mask when around other people. A face mask is preferable as it offers more protection than a visor.

• Cover coughs and sneezes.

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PARENTING

Positive co-parenting A collaborative co-parenting relationship, where both the mother and the father are involved, is said to positively influence children’s socio-emotional adjustment and mental health. Clinical psychologist and family therapist Charlene Aquilina gives some insight and advice. he term ‘co-parenting’ refers to the relationship between parents and how they manage to navigate parenthood together, such as their level of communication, shared values, boundaries, structure, consequences used with children and so on.

Co-parenting can be used to describe any parenting relationship, be it those where parents are together in a romantic rapport and those who are separated. Research highlights that the type of co-parenting adopted impacts on family dynamics and the children’s development.

The co-parenting relationship is said to influence the children’s socio-emotional adjustment, mental health, and internalising and externalising behaviours. This article aims to emphasise the importance of developing a collaborative co-parenting relationship and offers some “Positive basic suggestions on how this can be facilitated. parenting It is common for parents to have different underlines the opinions about how to parent in the best importance of possible way. This divergence of opinion may be brought about by the parents’ own developing a secure upbringing experiences in their family of relationship and origin. Some parents may wish to follow blindly Studies show that when fathers are more involved, connection with the children are more likely to be securely attached, how they were parented by repeating the same children” develop healthier peer relationships and have good approach with their own children. Alternatively, academic achievement. other parents may reflect on the positive and negative approaches they experienced as children and Psycho-education about the importance of may learn how to be different as parents by thinking about positive parenting what they needed most when they were young.

Educating yourself and discussing with your partner about The ability for parents to reflect on their own upbringing the various parenting styles available is important. Research and learn from it is pivotal both for their own well-being and suggests that children and adolescents fare better in their for the benefit of their children. In supportive sessions with development and their relationships when a positive professionals, parents may be encouraged to reflect on parenting approach is adopted by both parents. their upbringing and what they wish to change as well as Positive parenting underlines the importance of carry forward to their own current family. Such reflections are developing a secure relationship and connection with the best started as early as possible, beginning from when the children. This involves being attuned to their feelings, couple is transitioning to parenthood.

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PARENTING empathising and supporting them in their endeavours, while also providing a sense of structure, boundaries and natural or logical consequences. Positive parenting is linked with better self-esteem, enhanced relationships and well-being.

Moving from ‘being there’ to ‘being with’ From infancy to adolescence, parents may take up different parental roles. In Malta, despite that gender roles are changing, it may still be more common to see mothers take on more parental involvement when compared to fathers.

There may be various reasons for this, including gate-keeping and fathers feeling not well-equipped enough. The importance of fathers needs to be highlighted more as their role in child development is fundamental. Studies show that when fathers are more involved, children are more likely to be securely attached, develop healthier “As parents, peer relationships and have good academic it is key to give achievement. Such positive outcomes may constructive feedback continue to encourage parents to work to each other and not together for their children’s best interest.

The term ‘gate-keeping’ refers to when one undermine the other parent, generally the parent who takes on more in the process of responsibility at home, intentionally or unconparenting” sciously, would not encourage the other to be Mothers and fathers need to encourage involved in child-rearing practices. For instance, one another to have one-to-one time and some mothers may fear that their partners may not be special bonding opportunities with their infants, as capable as them to soothe their infants and may thus children and adolescents; parental skills will further withhold opportunities for father-baby one-to-one time as develop through communication, support, reflection and they may think that it would be too much responsibility on consistency. In turn, this would continue to benefit the cothe father. The father, on the other hand, may feel not capable parenting relationship, parent-child relationship, couple enough and may trust more in the mother’s role. relationship and child development.

Research suggests how important it is for partners to praise each other’s parenting attempts and to build on them Discuss constructively The infants’, children’s and adolescents’ experiences of how constructively (Cowan & Cowan, 2019). Children feel safer their parents handle conflict may impact on their well-being. when parents show a more united front. As parents, it is key Co-parents have the responsibility to be respectful to each to give constructive feedback to each other and not other for the benefit of the co-parenting relationship and, undermine the other in the process of parenting. ultimately, the child.

Parents are encouraged to find various ways of communicating with each other about their children’s ongoing development and experiences. Some parents who are separated opt for video calls, e-mails and having a shared calendar. Clear communication is key as no parent can mind-read. It is crucial to keep in mind that you will always be your children’s parents even if your couple relationship has ended. Hence, it may be helpful to ask yourself: “How will this benefit my child? How can I support my child to have a better relationship with his father/mother?”.

It is in the children’s best interest that parents highlight each other’s strengths and do not use their children as a messenger. Co-parents are encouraged to express gratitude and say “thank you” even in front of their children to model positive relationships. When the co-parenting relationship is a respectful one, children learn positive relationship skills that will continue to help them in their own future relationships.

Mothers and fathers need to encourage one another to have one-to-one As Jane Blaustone said, “the best security blanket a child time and special bonding opportunities with their infants, children and can have is parents who respect each other”. adolescents.

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NURTURE

Embracing a growth mindset Being resilient in the face of adversity is an important life skill and it is especially significant during difficult times like the current pandemic. Sandy Calleja Portelli discusses the importance of teaching children to persevere in whatever they do, not just academically.

f you have ever watched your child struggle to learn something, only to get frustrated and declare “I can’t”, you know how difficult it can be to persuade them to persevere until they ‘get it’.

As adults we know how important it is for children to be resilient and not give up but this can be a very challenging skill to pass on. We may try reasoning, cajoling, rewarding or perhaps threatening them with consequences at school but, over time, we may find our child even more resistant to learning new things.

Homework and study become a daily uphill struggle, exhausting for parents and children. There is a growing movement that believes these patterns of behaviour can be overcome if we teach children to adopt a ‘growth mindset’.

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In 1998, Carol Dweck published a series of research studies that examined the differences in children’s attitudes to doing jigsaw puzzles according to whether they were praised for their effort (“you must have worked hard”) or for “being smart”. She concluded that children who were praised for their efforts were more likely to tackle harder puzzles next time round than children who were labelled as clever. Dweck and her team concluded that children who are taught that the brain is a muscle that can be exercised and grow were likely to achieve much better grades over the long term than students who are not taught this and are, therefore, more likely to have a fixed mindset.

A fixed mindset is the belief that one is born with a set of natural talents and intelligence which cannot be changed and, it is argued, that people with a

fixed mindset are more likely to conclude “I am no good at x, y or z”.

Proponents of a growth mindset propose that while every individual is born with a different level of intelligence and talents, self-belief and attitude have a significant impact on what one can achieve, regardless of the talents they are born with.

Although there is some dispute about the levels of improvement in children’s school grades, parents and teachers who have adopted growth mindset strategies with their children report that their children have become more willing to try new things and are less likely to get discouraged at initial failures or mistakes. There is also some anecdotal evidence that suggests that the adults have also changed their outlook in many ways. So, what does it mean to embrace a growth mindset in your family?

NURTURE your child about 1 Teach neuroplasticity The brain is a muscle that becomes stronger and builds patterns depending on how it is used. When we first learn a skill, the knowledge is stored and the more often we repeat the task, the less effort we need to put into completing it. This is how the skills we learn as toddlers become second nature to us as we master them – learning to walk is a process that involves a number of bumps and scrapes for a toddler but becomes instinctive in time. On the other hand, if you stop practising something for a period of time (e.g. a language or instrument), it will take time to regain the fluency or mastery you once had.

is a process 2 Learning that requires effort Mistakes are an inherent part of learning.

“Self-belief and attitude have a significant impact on what one can achieve, regardless of the talents they are born with”

Value and emphasise the importance of effort in learning new things in all areas of life, not just academic. When children are praised for being smart or learning new things, quickly they may interpret struggle as a sign they are ‘dumb’. Children should be encouraged and praised when they make a mindful effort and find ways to overcome their struggle. It is very tempting to praise children for getting good grades but there are more long-term benefits from focusing on the effort – a ‘C’ grade that required focus and study to achieve may be more valuable than an ‘A’ on a test they barely had to prepare for at all.

and failures are 3 Mistakes opportunities for learning Mistakes are an inherent part of learning, regardless of age or what is being learnt but we often tend to beat ourselves up and feel shame at messing up. Instead, individuals with a growth mindset view mistakes as opportunities to evaluate their process,

a team, community spirit, responsible attitude, tenacity and persistence.

More importantly, encourage your child to recognise and value these positive traits. One suggestion is to set up a jar in which parents and child add daily positive notes noting instances where the child has displayed a good personal trait, building a jar of affirmations.

the power 5 Embrace of ‘yet’ learn what can be done better and use that knowledge going forward. This approach lessens the fear of failure which holds so many people back from grasping new opportunities, from speaking up in class or at work, possibly resulting in lost opportunities for the individual and their community.

‘Yet’ is such a small word but laden with so much power – “I can’t do this yet” strongly suggests “I will be able to do it in the future”. Our self-talk colours our beliefs and attitude towards life and if children embrace the belief that they have the potential to master a challenging skill or topic, they are more likely to stretch themselves to reach their potential.

and achievements 4 Grades do not define a person 6 It’s not a competition Rather than praising children only for being a good student, for winning at sports etc, it is important to value qualities such as their ability to work in

Discourage your child from comparing themselves to others and encourage them to celebrate their own progress and achievements.

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NURTURE

It is important to value qualities such as children’s ability to work in a team, community spirit, responsible attitude, tenacity and persistence.

7 Emotions affect learning

8 Set an example

In times of stress, anxiety or fear, our capacity to learn and focus is greatly diminished. Teach your child to recognise when they are starting to feel anxious or frustrated about their learning and encourage them to adopt relaxation techniques. In some instances, taking a timed break away from their studies and focusing on something else may help them come back to their problem with a clearer mind later on.

Children are more likely to model your behaviour than what you tell them, so be mindful of your own mindset – how often do you say “I’m no good at …”?

Let your children see you try, fail and learn (when appropriate) and set an example by embracing new challenges yourself – whether this is at work, learning a new skill or taking up a new hobby.

Children today are growing up to an uncertain future where their ability to adapt to new methods and learn new skills is predicted to be crucial to success. If they grow up afraid of taking on new challenges and are afraid of failing, then they are likely to struggle to thrive in the future. Teaching children that their brain is flexible and can continue learning new skills is possibly one of the greatest things we can do to help them reach their full potential.

“The brain is a muscle that becomes stronger and builds patterns depending on how it is used” Teaching children that their brain is flexible and can continue learning new skills is possibly one of the greatest things we can do to help them reach their full potential.

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COUNSELLING

OUR CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH IN THESE TRYING TIMES Children’s worlds have turned upside down since the start of the pandemic and, just like adults, they may feel anxious and have negative thoughts and feelings. Karen Decelis gives parents some advice on how they can help their children overcome their fears.

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COUNSELLING ental health is defined as a state of well-being in which a person is able to carry out his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal life stressors, can work productively and fruitfully and is able to make a contribution to his or her community (WHO, 2007).

Our well-being has certainly suffered since the coronavirus pandemic emerged. Many have been overwhelmed by fear and anxiety, and subsequently have been affected by strong, negative emotions.

It is important, however, to remember that adults are not the only ones to be affected by COVID-19: children are equally susceptible to different emotions and experiences.

Maltese children have been living a different reality for the past six months; their worlds have been turned upside down, just like adults.

The biggest shift in children’s lives came about in March, when schools were closed instantly and without prior warning or gradual preparation.

Attending school and extracurricular activities brings about regularity and routine. Routine is one of the most important aspects in children’s lives as this helps them to feel secure and stable. A schedule establishes consistency and creates a feeling of calmness.

Through routines, children learn what is expected of them and they establish healthy, constructive habits.

We have now reached another milestone in this bizarre year: the opening of schools. Parents have mixed feelings. Some parents are very scared to send their children to school as they fear that their children will get infected and that they could also transmit the disease to a vulnerable family member. Other parents are extremely concerned about their children’s education as they noted that online learning was not as effective as much as in-class learning.

Other parents felt guilty that they could not help their children with online learning due to their own limitations, so now they are eager for their children to return to school where their educational needs are met.

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Creating an environment that is conducive to dialogue and discussion will help your children let out their fears.

“It is okay for children to have mixed feelings when it comes to going back to school”

There are also parents who, if given the choice, would opt to stay at home and help their children with online learning and home-schooling, however, they have to go to work.

As counsellors, we are also concerned about the children who had school phobia prior to COVID-19. We are aware that these children used to struggle to go to school after the summer holidays, so we are wondering what is going to happen to them now that they have been at home for over six months.

There is no right or wrong feeling. It is normal for parents to have mixed emotions and it is also okay for children to have mixed feelings when it comes to going back to school. Children might be feeling anxious, tense and stressed. What we can do as adults is empathise with our children and validate their feelings.

The following are some tips that will help parents better manage and, hopefully reduce, their children’s anxiety.

your own anxiety 1 Manage as a parent It is normal for you as a parent to feel overwhelmed. These are stressful times for the majority of us. It is very important for the child’s well-being that you look after your own mental health first. Self-care during these trying times is crucial, as in turn, your child would have a stable and calm parent.

Ways to look after your mental health include the following: exercising, a healthy diet, meditating, engaging in hobbies and socialising with loved ones (even if online).

It is important that, as much as possible, you do not transfer your fear to your children. If you are constantly expressing your anxiety in the presence of your children, the probability is that the child will feel anxious and stressed too. Try to show them that you are feeling calm. If this reality is taking its toll on you, you might consider speaking to a counsellor.

2 Limit media exposure Children are constantly exposed to news due to their online activities. In the case of younger children, you might want to limit your child’s exposure to certain news headlines which may cause anxiety. With regards to older children, who are usually using their tablets and phones all the time, you can help create an atmosphere at home that is conducive to dialogue and discussion. In this manner, as the parent, you can create a safe space for them to open up about anything which can provoke anxiety. A lot of misinformation is continuously being circulated online. Thus, if the CHiLD OCTOBER 2020 19

COUNSELLING It’s important that parents and children continue to do things they used to do together before the pandemic.

to keep doing what 5 Try you used to do before COVID-19

“COVID-19 is here… but so is your child. Listen to them, speak to them, make memories with them”

anxiety reaches a level which you cannot handle alone, it would be ideal to contact a counsellor. child or teenager feels comfortable and safe talking to you about what they read online, you can confirm what is true and dismiss fake news for them.

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Create a warm family atmosphere

When children are living in a warm, family atmosphere, they feel safer and less anxious. It is important for you as a parent to encourage your children to express their feelings and worries without them fearing judgement. You can tell your children that you want to hear how they are feeling about going back to school. If the child expresses anxiety, it is suggested that you empathise and reassure them that you are understanding them. If the child’s 20 CHiLD OCTOBER 2020

your children aware 4 Make of what is in their control When it comes to a worldwide pandemic, there are some things and situations which are beyond our control. But you can show children what is in their control. You can teach your children the importance of washing their hands, wearing their masks or visors when needed, not hugging or touching other people as much as possible and of coughing and sneezing into a tissue. You can assure your children that that is all that is expected from them, and if they do get the virus, it would not have been their fault, as they did everything that was in their control not to get it.

While COVID-19 is a reality we are living on a daily basis, it is important to keep in mind that it is not the only thing happening in our lives. Once children are back to school, speak to them about their friends, their homework and their extracurricular activities.

Do not constantly talk about COVID-19. Also do things you used to do before. Take them out for picnics in weekends, do crafts with them, play with them. Enjoy the moments with your children.

COVID-19 has created a lot of stress and anxiety. It is important that we try to give our children a sense of normality in a very abnormal environment. Once children are back at school, it is suggested that they are reminded about what they are in control of and reassured that whatever happens, whether they contract the virus or not, it is not their fault. It is also suggested that the main topic of conversation when the children come home from school is not always COVID-19, but other things like what they learnt, who they stayed with, what they liked and what they did not.

COVID-19 is here… but so is your child.

Listen to them, speak to them, make memories with them.

Karen Decelis is a counsellor and vice public relations officer of the Malta Association for the Counselling Profession (MACP).

COMMUNITY

BE BRAVE AND SING FOR UNITY! ONE WORLD – CATCHING FIRE We are all shiny diamonds We are all a piece of art We are one voice together We are all assigned a star If we just believe We will always see There’s a light deep inside you and me If you close your eyes and then dare to feel Then you reach your own vortex.

You’re free (Chorus) We’re catching fire – unite Nananana Nananana (one world) Na na na na nana naa X2 We’re catching fire – unite We sometimes chase our shadows We are humans after all But we’re same blood, were equal Doesn’t matter who, you are

he local anti-bullying NGO bBrave has been invited to participate in a global charity project to help make the world a little bit better.

The One World – Project, run by the One World non-profit movement, aims to spread awareness of the importance of unity across the globe. As part of this project, One World founder and international producer Geo Slam has written an inspirational and cheerful song titled One World – Catching Fire. You can listen to the song, performed by Inéss Voca, on YouTube and Spotify, among other platforms.

Slam and his team are currently in Malta doing some preparatory work for Anti-Bullying Week, which will be held between November 16 and 20. Their intention is to produce a piano version of the song with the inclusion of a local

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choir, as well as possibly having an original song written for bBrave and sung by local artists and the local choir.

Coincidentally, the message of unity sent out by One World fits perfectly with the theme of this year’s Anti-Bullying Week, which is ‘United Against Bullying’.

“The organisers want to bring children, elderly, poor, rich and people with different abilities closer together again in times of social distancing,” Aaron Zammit Apap, founder and secretary general of bBrave, said.

“Direct, social contact is extremely important for the mental and physical health of all of us, and even a small smile can do so much.”

So, why don’t you and your children join the chorus and help spread this message of peace and unity? Here are the lyrics so you can sing along.

Daring to let go Giving up control, stay in ease And surrender your heart Then you can be sure Something new will show, you just breathe Deep connect hear your call One light – one light One source – one source One voice – one voice One world – One world I’m Iness Voca – Geo Slam Let’s unite – We are never gone (Chorus) We’re catching fire – unite (Ahhhh) Nananana Nananana (one world) Na na na na nana naa (one world) Nananana (Ahaha ahaha ahaha) Nananana (one world) Na na na na nana naa We’re catching fire – unite Nananana Nananana (one world) Na na na na nana naa We’re catching fire – unite x2 One World

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BOOKS

Inspiring children to become journalists 22 CHiLD OCTOBER 2020

BOOKS

London-based author and illustrator Gattaldo is about to launch a picture book that celebrates journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia’s life, her work and her legacy. He tells Child about this very personal project of his and why he hopes it will inspire children to become journalists. p icture book about the life story of late journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia is being launched three years after her assassination. Besides telling her story, author and illustrator Gattaldo hopes it will inspire young children to write, to be brave in the face of adversity, to fight in what they believe in and to learn about the importance of journalism in a democracy.

“Fearless – The Story of Daphne Carauana Galizia is the story of an investigative journalist but it is also the story of how important it is to fight for what you believe in, to dare go against the grain if you know you’ve got the truth on your side,” the London-based author and illustrator says.

“It’s a story of a girl who found her universe in books, who used words to express herself and dared to dream of a better world. It’s a story of perseverance in the face of adversity. It’s a David and Goliath story,” he continues.

“It’s about misogyny and about the empowerment that information can bring to everyone. It’s also about the importance of a free press.

Hopefully, it also brings home the importance of ‘herstory’.

The book started off as a personal project and acted as a

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“It’s important that truth wins.” – Gattaldo PHOTO: ANTONELLA MUSCAT

form of catharsis for the author who knew Daphne well and who found it very hard to come to terms with her death.

Gattaldo was in his 20s, studying fine arts in Florence, when he came across Daphne’s weekly column in the Times of Malta some 30 years ago. Her writing struck a chord with him, so he decided to send her a letter at her workplace.

“Surprisingly, she wrote back, we became penfriends and our friendship evolved from that,” he says.

In October 2017, as he was flying back to Malta where he was born, his friend was assassinated with a bomb placed under her car.

“Daphne’s assassination was particularly difficult for me to come to terms with," Gattaldo admits.

"As I was reading a book to my seven-year-old niece in Malta one evening shortly after Daphne’s death, my niece asked me about my friend.

“The journalist is she/he who asks questions in our name, the one that alerts us to dangers, who has our interests at heart” “I recounted Daphne’s life story and what she had attempted to achieve through her writing.

“Back in London, I started sketching and writing. I attempted to tell the story

in a way my nieces and nephews could understand, and this picture book was born. I wanted them to look up to Daphne but also to understand how vital journalism is to democracy and our way of life.”

To him, Daphne stands for honesty, that is for the courage of one’s convictions, and much more.

“Being true to yourself goes beyond personal interests. Paul, her son, recounts the time when his father asked Daphne why she couldn’t delay writing about a magistrate he was due to argue in front of the following morning −“Do you have to do it for tomorrow?” he asked. Yes, she replied.

Journalism was Daphne’s first priority − she felt she owed that to her readers,” he notes.

“She also stands for informed opinion. Everyone has an opinion but unless it’s well researched, it’s of no use to anyone. It’s a lesson we should all learn before sharing information we come across on social media. We should always fact-check it, even if it’s something we want to believe in because it confirms our previouslyheld beliefs.”

To Gattaldo and his partner, Daphne was first and foremost a friend, who was concerned about their well-being and with whom they would chat over coffee or lunch whenever she visited London.

“She was someone with great taste and a fellow creative with whom I could exchange ideas.”

Gattaldo believes that both girls and boys can identify with Daphne.

“Where her ambition and dreams for a better world are concerned, her gender is irrelevant. The misogyny Daphne encounters in the story will, of course, be something girls are more familiar with than boys because they will have encountered it personally.

Each time they’re told they can’t CHiLD OCTOBER 2020 23

BOOKS play with the boys, or when they’re faced with gender stereotypical toys, they’ve already experienced the way the world pigeonholes them,” he says.

He adds that girls will be inspired by Daphne’s determination not to take no for an answer and to be audacious in their ambition. They should also see that this is in no way incongruous with motherhood. On the other hand, boys should learn to accept girls as conceivable role models.

“Everyone has an opinion but unless it’s well researched, it’s of no use to anyone. It’s a lesson we should all learn before sharing information we come across on social media”

“It is important that readers, both boys and girls, have role models of any gender,” Gattaldo stresses.

“Investigative journalism was seen as a man’s job at the time Daphne embarked on her career. Daphne would recall how she would be asked if Peter (her husband) had written the articles for her, because they honestly thought a woman couldn’t think for herself. I’m hoping that Fearless might even persuade some young readers to pursue a career in journalism.”

The author believes journalism is indeed essential in the “age of conspiracies and misinformation”.

“Children are growing up in a society which seems to reward the opportunists and the unprincipled. We must make sure they know that honesty and 24 CHiLD OCTOBER 2020

the quest for truth ultimately make for a better world for all,” he says.

“The journalist is she/he who asks questions in our name, the one that alerts

All illustrations are copyright of Gattaldo.

us to dangers, who has our interests at heart. The journalist is the one that holds the powerful to account in our name. That is why it is so insulting and so telling when politicians refuse to answer journalists’ questions or discredit them.

Their disrespect is in reality directed at us citizens.”

Interestingly enough, the book, whose London publishers Otter-Barry Books rated 6+, does not mention the assassination.

“It was a choice I gave a lot of thought to,” Gattaldo says.

“The point of the book is to celebrate Daphne’s life, her work and her legacy. It is to tell her story so that children get to know the woman behind the work. I feel that there has been an entire propaganda machine churning out misinformation about her and demonising her. When that well-oiled machine failed to present counter-arguments to hers, it attempted to undermine her credibility.

It’s important that truth wins.”

BOOKS

fearlessdaphne.com The book project was followed by a website which aims to go beyond Daphne’s story and create a conversation with children about journalism.

“Journalism is facing its own demons, problems which partly came about with the advent of 24-hour news. There is an ongoing debate about which direction journalism should take. Trust is crucial,” Gattaldo points out.

“There are important elements that good journalism cannot do without, such as having more than one source and checking twice before publishing. It is not only important for journalists to be imbued in these requisites but also for us at the receiving end to demand them.

“I feel it is crucial to educate our young to know how to interpret information and come to an informed decision”

“I feel it is crucial to educate our young to know how to interpret information and come to an informed decision. This is how the idea for fearlessdaphne.com came about.”

At the moment, the website serves as a brief introduction to journalism. It has articles about different types of journalism, critical media literacy, the difference between news and opinion, and some journalists’ stories like those

of Ida Bell Wells-Barnett and Marie Colvin.

Gattaldo’s favourite is, however, an article on Daphne as a child written by a school friend of hers.

He would now like to develop the website further and is looking for collaborators to add more educational resources.

“The website is now at a stage where third party finance is vital if the site is to evolve into a more comprehensive learning source for schools and children. Apart from adding more content, I’d like to create downloadable activity sheets and other resources specifically designed to be used in class (we’ll

be adding teacher’s notes for ‘Fearless’ in the next few days). I’m also looking for the right collaborators on this project, so if anyone in the education sector is interested, please get in touch,” he says.

The virtual launch for Fearless, The Story of Daphne Caruana Galizia will take place on October 17 − Daphne was assassinated on October 16, 2017 − with a panel discussion chaired by Rebecca Vincent, director of international campaigns at Reporters Without Borders. For more information, visit fearlessdaphne.com.

CHiLD OCTOBER 2020 25

TEChnOlOgY

10 TIPS TO KEEP YOUR CHILDREN SAFE ONLINE The internet provides a wealth of opportunity and an easy way to research virtually any subject. It has proven to be an especially important resource for children this year, when schools closed their gates due to the pandemic. COVID-19 or not, however, children spend lots of time online and parents need to remain vigilant as to the content they search.

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he internet contains a massive amount of useful resources for children. Even so, while the internet offers children and teens no end of learning opportunities and entertainment, it also provides access to some disturbing content. Of course, unpleasant or inappropriate content is only a part of the risk that children are exposed to online. There is also the risk of children being approached by online predators or being bullied online. So, to help keep your children safe while they surf the web, here are some internet safety tips for them.

1 Talk about online safety Children must be aware of the threats that exist online. So, discuss with your kids in an age-appropriate way what the dangers are, and explain the basic cybersecurity rules. You cannot rely 100 per cent on the parental control settings on your devices to block all the inappropriate content and your children may sometimes use other people’s computers that do not have the appropriate level of parental controls set. So, it is crucial that kids feel comfortable talking to their parents about what they find on the internet.

2 Let your children teach you Your children are likely to use apps and websites that you have never used before. So, encourage your kids to share

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with you what online resources they are using and ask them to teach you how to use the platforms. You need to be able to have open and honest discussions with your children about what they do and see online. So, you will have to become a good listener, as well as a teacher.

3 Set parental controls on devices Parental controls on web browsers and apps will filter out most of the inappropriate content that your children could stumble across online. As already mentioned, though, these filters are not 100 per cent effective. So, for added security, it would be wise to use a parental control app. Parental control apps filter inappropriate content and allow you to monitor your child’s internet usage.

kids about the dangers of talking to 4 Tell strangers online It is best to teach your children to restrict their online chatting to people they know, which is something that you can enforce in many of the apps that they will want to use. The crucial rules to follow, though, are never to divulge any personal information and never arrange to meet in person someone they met online. Children should also be encouraged to block anyone who says anything that upsets them or makes them feel at all uncomfortable.

TEChnOlOgY

7 Keep software up to date Software is continually being improved, both in terms of functionality and security. So make sure that the operating system and software on your children’s devices are kept up to date. Keeping the software updated will ensure that you have the latest security fixes that could be relevant to your child’s online safety.

8 Install antivirus software “For added security, it would be wise to use a parental control app”

children to be 5 Teach responsible online citizens The anonymity of the internet can encourage children to say and do things online that they would never do in the real world. So, it would be a good idea to talk to your children about the importance of good online citizenship. Children need to understand that mean comments made online hurt just as much and hurtful comments made to a person’s face.

Cyberbullying is just as unacceptable as physical bullying.

6 Limit screen time Although it can be tough to do, it would be best if you set limits on how much time your children spend on the internet.

If a child gets into the habit of late-night browsing in their bedroom, for example, they will become more tempted to explore things that they should not. Excessive screen time is also not good for a child’s health and mental well-being.

Installing a reputable antivirus software package will protect your children’s devices against viruses and malware. Some antivirus solutions also offer additional parental controls for children’s devices. The best advice is to choose one of the well-known antivirus solutions, which include a firewall, real-time protection and automatic updates.

9 Explain a digital footprint to kids Children need to be aware that there is no guarantee of privacy on the internet. They also need to know that what they post online today may one day be discovered by an employer.

Your digital footprint follows you around forever. So it would be wise to consider the potential long-term implications of anything they post on the internet. Children may also need to be reminded that anything private they send to someone in confidence may still get shared with other people.

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Show children how to create strong passwords

Teach your children the importance of creating passwords that will be difficult for other people to guess. They should also be encouraged not to share their passwords with anyone but their parents. If children learn the importance of strong passwords at an early age, it will hopefully be a habit that sticks when they get older.

The above tips should keep your children safer online. The most crucial thing that you do, though, is to talk to them about internet safety and encourage an open discussion about what they find online.

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ReCIpeS

You won’t believe they’re dairy-free!

One of her sons being allergic to milk products, Donna Buttigieg is always experimenting with dairy-free alternatives that would work just as well and taste as good in sweet and savoury recipes.

Here she shares some tried and tested ideas.

CHICKEN CURRY RICE WITH COCONUT MILK AND MIXED VEGETABLES (Serves 4) Ingredients 1 onion, chopped 2 tbsp vegetable oil 2-3 tbsp mild curry powder 500ml chicken stock 500g boneless chicken thighs or chicken breast cut into 1-inch pieces 1 (400ml) can coconut milk 340g carrots 340g broccoli 170g sweetcorn 3 tbsp cornflour salt and pepper To serve 250g long grain rice Method Slice the onion. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over a medium heat and cook the onions and chopped carrots for a few minutes. Add the curry powder and cook for three to four minutes. If the pan gets dry, add a splash of stock and make sure the curry does not burn.

Add the chicken and cook for five minutes. Make sure all the chicken is coated and is beginning to brown on both sides.

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Add 250ml stock and bring to the boil. Reduce to a medium to low heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through with no sign of pink juices in the middle of the pieces.

Add the coconut milk and stock (leaving 125ml aside to add to the cornflour later on) and let simmer for another five minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the broccoli, peas and sweetcorn, stir and cover for another 5 minutes until the broccoli is almost cooked as desired.

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice. Rinse the rice under the cold tap and drain the cloudy starch.

Add clean water to cook the rice. You need almost twice as much water as

rice (if you use a mug of rice, add a little less than two mugs of water). Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover with a lid and cook very gently for 10 minutes.

Remove from the heat and leave to stand with the lid on for 10 minutes.

This will finish cooking the rice. Keeping the lid on is important, so none of the steam escapes.

Take the cornflour and add the 125ml of chicken stock (at this point it should be room temperature) and mix well.

Add to the simmering chicken curry and mix until the sauce thickens. Take off the heat, season with salt and pepper. Serve the curry with the rice.

ReCIpeS

Donna's son Jack enjoying some freshlybaked dairy-free brownies.

Jack’s brother Ilai is not allergic to milk but still loves his mum’s treats.

DAIRY-FREE BOUNTY BARS (makes 6 to 8)

VEGAN BROWNIES

Ingredients 200g desiccated coconut (plus extra for sprinkling on top if desired) 4 tbsp coconut cream 4 tbsp maple syrup 1 tbsp coconut oil 100g dark chocolate

(Makes 6) Ingredients 140g self-raising flour, sifted 60g brown sugar 6 tbsp milk-free drinking chocolate pinch of salt 125ml water 2 tbsp vegetable oil 60g apple puree or ripe mashed banana Optional: Coconut shavings, sesame or sunflower seeds to decorate before baking Method preheat the oven on 180˚C. Line an 8inch x 5inch baking tin with grease-proof paper and set aside.

In a bowl sift the flour, salt, drinking chocolate and add the sugar.

Make a well in the dry ingredients and add the water, oil and apple puree or mashed banana. Stir by hand until all the ingredients are mixed well together . place the mixture in the prepared tin and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes or until when

you insert a toothpick, it comes out clean.

Leave the brownies to cool in the baking tin for five minutes and then cut into tiny squares.

Method put the desiccated coconut, coconut cream, maple syrup and coconut oil in a blender and blend until combined well together and a sticky mixture is formed.

Using your hands, shape the coconut mixture into bounty bar shapes and then place them in the freezer for at least two hours to set.

Melt the dark chocolate in a saucepan over a low-medium heat.

Then set it aside to cool slightly.

Remove the coconut bars from the freezer and coat them in the melted chocolate. Sprinkle each bar with a little extra desiccated coconut if desired and then place them back into the freezer for half an hour to allow the chocolate to set.

Keep refrigerated. They are best consumed within five days.

CHiLD OCTOBeR 2020 29

PRodUCTS & SERViCES

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For trade enquires, contact Pemix Distributors Ltd at www.pemix.com.mt.

Positive parenting course Positive parenting programmes aim at transforming family lives by tapping into resources within parents and liberating their ability to parent positively and effectively. when parents use praise effectively, children develop healthy self-esteem and the parents may observe more of the behaviour they want to encourage. This also leads to a more positive relationship between parents and children. other than being accurate and truthful, it also offers children the precise information they need to repeat the desired behaviour.

This course also helps the parents to become emotion coaches. in this way, they can build emotional intelligence and selfesteem within their children, foster deep connections with them and help them regulate their behaviour.

Parents are also encouraged to set up for success. Children can get things right when prepared and it is the parents’ job to prepare

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them for success. Experiencing some degree of achievement is paramount in motivating children and building their self-esteem.

This course also supports parents to have a clear vision of how they want to be as a family by identifying what values are essential for them and devising rules to stand for those values. Parents are encouraged to set up a united front with the other parent, to determine reasonable rules, communicate them positively and involve the children in the process.

Finally, this course focuses on positive discipline by using each situation as a teachable moment, connect through emotion coaching and take constructive steps such as following through with consequences.

For more information on this course, contact Aġenzija Appoġġ on 2295 9000, or through the Foundation for Social Welfare Services Facebook page, or also via e-mail on parentingskills@gov.mt.

Diaper pants for complete freedom of movement new Babylino Sensitive Pants are now more elastic than ever before, offering your baby great body fit and complete freedom of movement. The new ‘allaround elastic’ technology thanks to the 360˚ elasticity around the hips and all around the waist, embraces the baby’s body securely, following the body movements. Babylino pants make diaper change easier and encourage potty training, without having to keep the baby stable in a supine position. Thanks to the unique Babylino Sensitive innovation, they combine excellent absorbency along with certified skin friendliness.

For trade enquires, contact Pemix Distriutors Ltd at www.pemix.com.mt.