Child Magazine | Cape Town Dec 2009 /Jan 2010

free

Cape Town’s

december 2009 january 2010 Issue 66 Circulation 40 103

C a p e

To w n ’ s

from

to

b e s t

g u i d e

f o r

pa r e n t s

www.childmag.co.za

boy

man

raising great men

+ 50

surviving

christmas finding the calm in

things to do

the festive chaos

during the holidays

holiday time

what’s on in dec & jan

health

education

entertainment

Every month I am blown away by the letters that stream into our office...

So many of you take the time to email, fax or write to us about issues you care about; mostly your Ju children and the challenges you face lia n, Lis in raising them. So in this, my last letter aa nd R obyn of the year, I would like to say a big “thank you!”. Thanks for reading our articles, our letters and our blogs, and thanks for responding and raising other issues close to your heart. Thank you for putting ideas in our heads and allowing us to share them with all the parents and educators who read our magazines every month.

Next year Cape Town’s ChildTM turns six, Joburg’s ChildTM turns five and Durban’s ChildTM will be three! In celebration, we will be increasing our circulation by 5 000 in each city in an attempt to reach some of the schools and businesses currently on our waiting lists. Thank you for taking our magazines into your home and for being so supportive of our advertisers who make the magazines possible. We couldn’t have done it without you, and for this we are incredibly grateful!

May your December and January be filled with fun, laughter and a lot less routine.

P.S. Here’s to tea and toast at 10am, no school run and not a project in sight!

Hunter House PUB L IS H ING

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

Editorial Managing Editor Marina Zietsman • marina@childmag.co.za Acting Features Editor Donna Cobban • features@childmag.co.za Calendar Editor Lucille Kemp • lucille@childmag.co.za

monthly circulation Cape Town’s ChildTM 40 103 Joburg’s ChildTM 39 849 Durban’s ChildTM 35 154

to advertise Tel: 021 465 6093 • Fax: 021 462 2680 Email: ctsales@childmag.co.za Website: childmag.co.za

Copy Editors Nikki Benatar Debbie Hathway

Art Senior Designer Samantha Summerfield • sam@childmag.co.za Designers Mariette Barkhuizen Nikki-leigh Piper

Advertising Director Lisa Mc Namara • lisa@childmag.co.za

Client Relations Client Relations Manager Michele Jones • michele@childmag.co.za Client Relations Consultants Taryn Copeman • taryn@childmag.co.za Lisa Waterloo • capetown@childmag.co.za

To Subscribe Helen Xavier • subs@childmag.co.za

Accounts Helen Xavier • helen@childmag.co.za Nicolene Baldy • admin@childmag.co.za Tel: 021 465 6093 • Fax: 021 462 2680

Cape Town’s

All our magazines are printed on recycled paper.

Free requested July 09 - October 09

Cape Town’s ChildTM is published monthly by Hunter House Publishing, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Office address: Unit 7, Canterbury Studios, cnr Wesley and Canterbury Streets, Gardens, Cape Town. Tel: 021 465 6093, fax: 021 462 2680, email: capetown@childmag.co.za. Annual subscriptions (for 11 issues) cost R165, including VAT and postage inside SA. Printed by Paarl Web. Copyright subsists in all work published in Cape Town’s ChildTM. We welcome submissions but retain the unrestricted right to change any received copy. We are under no obligation to return unsolicited copy. The magazine, or part thereof, may not be reproduced or adapted without the prior written permission of the publisher. We take care to ensure our articles are accurate and balanced but cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage that may arise from reading them.

December 2009/January 2010

contents

december 2009 january 2010

upfront 3 a note from lisa

28

6 over to you

readers respond

14 readers’ blog saying farewell to the corporate world was the best thing this mom ever did

features

regulars 12 wins

18 mother and son Donna Cobban looks at what it takes to raise a good man

15 health Q&A

why your body needs calcium

16 upfront with paul

22 a question of clothes dressing your child is fun, whether it’s handmade, a hand-me-down or off the peg, says Jeannne Maclay-Mayers

the 4x4 craze has finally hit Paul Kerton’s home 17 health Q&A there is no safe way to get a sun tan

25 when they’re too quiet… when your children haven’t made a peep for some time, something could be wrong. By Laura Twiggs

43 resource: hooray for holidays!

28 surviving Christmas

50 elgin valley

the season of goodwill can also be the season of family strife, says Laura Twiggs

explore the area with this great interactive map

32 discipline the peaceful way Helena Kingwill looks at alternative ways to discipline your children

50-plus great family day outings

52 the good book guide fill up your Christmas stockings with new reads for the whole family 58 gizmos & gadgets

34 poker face is poker just a game, or are you teaching your child to gamble?

Jeanne Maclay-Mayers investigates

new toys, games and audio books to entertain the family 60 bumper calendar

38 spice it up Nazeeha Abrahams shares some spicy recipes from her latest book, More Than Samoosas

what’s on in december and january

78 last laugh Sam Wilson has learnt that the end of year play says a lot about the calibre of your child’s school

classified ads

18

72 family marketplace 75 it’s party time

this month’s cover images are supplied by:

Pumpkin Patch Kids Clothing pumpkinpatchsa.co.za

December 2009/January 2010

comstockcomplete.com

Pumpkin Patch Kids Clothing pumpkinpatchsa.co.za

Cape Town’s

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

letters

over to you gift time Firstly, thank you for a great magazine. I find it very informative and interesting. I read the blog on giving gifts to teachers by Drew Bright and was reminded of an incident that took place when my youngest child was still in junior primary school. It was near the end of the last term and one of the other mothers was bemoaning the cost of all the presents she “had” to buy for the teacher, headmistress and secretary. I have four children ranging in age from 29 to 10 and I have never bought presents for the teachers. My children were totally disinterested in doing so, and I don’t feel the need to give a perfect stranger a gift for doing her job. By all means, get the teacher something if you want to, but do it for exactly that reason – because you want to.

Lesley Milne As a teacher, I agree entirely with the sentiments expressed by Drew Bright in the November blog. Since I have been a high school teacher for the past 14 years, it has been interesting to note how the fashion of giving gifts to teachers has changed. At times I have felt truly blessed to receive a verbal “thank you” from either a student or their parents, as it seems teachers have become more and more taken for granted; and thank-yous have become outdated. This is rather much in keeping with the attitude: “It’s your job and you’re paid to do it! So just get on with it!”

Do I want or expect expensive gifts? No, most certainly not! Something homemade is always special but the best is a simple card, written with sincerity, by the parents, in appreciation of the many hours invested in their child’s education – a lifelong gift given so willingly, and at times against much opposition, by the many teachers out there (and for not much of a salary).

An attitude of gratitude would go a long way to making a teacher’s day and is far more desirable and enduring than an expensive gift.

Tonya Patterson, dedicated teacher I still have the letter of thanks from one child’s mother; it sits at the back of one of my photo albums and whenever I feel unappreciated I take it out and read it. No gift could ever mean as much as that letter does – and nearly 20 years have passed!

Appreciated and appreciative ex-teacher I am a Grade 0 teacher and always approached the end-of-year gifts with some trepidation. At my current school it is tradition for the class mom to collect money from all the parents and present a gift voucher from the whole class. At first I didn’t like this arrangement but I’ve come to enjoy that little bit of extra spending at Christmas time.

The difficulty for me is that there are always some children who still bring in a gift and the others, whose mothers have undoubtedly contributed generously to the

December 2009/January 2010

voucher, feel very sad that they don’t have a present for their teacher. I always show them the voucher and explain what I think I might spend it on but, at six years old, most children don’t always understand. I would much rather have 10 bars of chocolate and 10 bars of soap each year than to look at those very sad little faces.

Parents shouldn’t feel pressured. Just do what you and your child like to do when giving a gift. I can assure you it’s always appreciated.

Anonymous teacher

not so sweet Thanks for a solid magazine. I would like to compliment the entire team for a very consistent publication, a true rarity these days. I am a single mom and would like to comment on an experience I have every time I go to the local grocery store with my toddler: sweeties at the tills! Can someone please explain to me why the very same market that these stores target (parents) is forced to put up with hysterical, crying, convulsing children while waiting in the queues?

I don’t believe I am alone on this issue. I think it’s the most inconsiderate and careless trick used by retailers to force parents into buying unhealthy, overpriced items that are within arm’s reach. Then, of course, the entire store is looking at you and wondering how you are going to stop that noise coming out of your red-in-the face toddler. I am exhausted by the time I reach my car! My daughter is a well-behaved child until we reach the till points.

May I suggest that these clever marketers allocate a few of their tills to moms and dads with children and clean up their acts (tills)? May I also suggest that they dress up a few of the tills with some other healthy replacements such as fruit? I hope that the CEO of some giant grocery chain is actually reading this.

Sam Davids

Cape Town’s

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

over to you

continued...

hold your horses We so often get caught up tearing around during the day that dreams fall aside and life becomes a routine. But what do you do when you wake up one morning feeling miserable and wondering what happened? Simplify! It is so easy. Yes, you want your children to grow up being superstars, but children that are expected to do everything will, after a while, want to do more. Keep it to one sports activity and one cultural activity for the year. It will lessen your driving around and you will have more time with them. They have their whole life to experiment but only a few moments with you as a child.

Madelize Bondesio, a worried teacher

shopping horror My daughter is an average to above average-sized child. She is not the smallest in her class but she is by no means the biggest and she would now fit into a nine- to 10-year-old top and 11 to 12- or 13 to 14-year-old bottom. I do realise that there has to be a norm, but where are they getting the norm from? Petite Chinese children or robust South African children?

My biggest problem is the age tag as opposed to the size tag. I want to dress my daughter according to her age, not her size, but if I am to buy what is available for her size, it is entirely inappropriate for her age. When my daughter was 18 months old, she was too big for 18- to 24-month-old clothing. I found myself looking in the two to three-year-old section and was appalled at what was available! I found the clothing to be sexy and promiscuous. These clothes also had no room to accommodate a nappy. Most children only potty train between the ages of two and three. The so-called “designer” stores do not suit my pocket. So what am I to do? I think I’ll have to buy a sewing machine! Why must our children grow up before their time? Can’t they just be children doing what children do – running, climbing, riding bikes or whatever – in suitable, comfortable clothing?

Debbie Hutton

paths out of poverty (POP) We returned on Sunday afternoon in pouring rain and I am still coming to grips with what we experienced. At this point all I can say is that it was a privilege to be a part of this wonderful tour. Women are incredible. We had every adversity thrown at us, from heavy downpours to swirling northeasters, and still we laughed and joked. The tears and emotions at Goedgedacht on Sunday left me speechless. Our thanks for all your support and the lovely piece in the November calendar of Cape Town’s Child.

Liz Olbrich (Liz and a group of women took part in a four-day off-road cycle tour to raise funds for POP, a development programme that helps farm workers and their families.)

December 2009/January 2010

party on…

Firstly thank you for providing a very informative and interesting magazine. I am joining the discussion about parties. How big or small? Party pack or not? And are we doing it for our children or for ourselves? Or worse, are we just competing with other families? We love a good party. For us, it’s a chance to get our friends and our children’s friends together and to get to know one another or catch up.

I love having them at our house as we take the focus off sweets and junk and place it on playing in the garden, riding bikes and catching tadpoles in the pond.

For anyone that doesn’t have a patch of grass, my family and I recently attended the most awesome party at Silvermine in Cape Town. Most cities are full of beautiful green spaces and parks, most of which can be used as party venues with a day permit. Our party philosophy is to have fun and be charitable. Before any birthday party, we do a huge springclean and rotate the toys. Toys that the children don’t play with anymore are donated.

In our world we need more understanding, more sharing and a lot more caring. It needs to start as early as possible so that it is part of life. I love that my children have learnt to take care and share.

Leesa I say “Yes” to party packs. When I planned my son’s second birthday party, I did a lot of research on birthday parties. The aim of a party pack is for the birthday child to learn to give and be thankful. My son opens his presents at the party and gives each present giver a party pack to say thank you for being at the party and for the present. Isn’t that a valuable lesson to learn in life?

R Basson I am so surprised that party packs are such an issue for some. What one forgets is that the parties our children attend are usually packed with so many fun activities that the children forget to eat and by the time it’s all over they remember how great the treats were and how they missed out. Receiving a party pack seems to extend the joy of the occasion, so I am all for party packs. There is no need to go overboard but a few sweets are always great.

Anonymous

Cape Town’s

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

more

over to you

autism and diet I recently received a copy of your 3D issue (October 2009) and was shocked to find our organisation’s name at the end of the article entitled “autism and diet”. Our organisation’s implied consent and endorsement at the end of this article is misleading. We have been getting enquiries regarding the article and our position, so this is intended to set the record straight.

We do not endorse any of the information in the “autism and diet” article as it is a one-sided view. There are always two sides to every story and your magazine did not address the other side of this debate. There is a huge ongoing, and sometimes very heated debate, regarding autism and diet.

Contrary to what the advocates of the diet say, as they do in your article, there are no studies that these advocates can point to which empirically state that their dietary approaches work.

It is our organisation’s position that parents need to be informed of the following when their child is diagnosed with autism: Firstly, is this diet medically necessary? That is, does the child have a medical condition diagnosed by a medical professional that will warrant a restricted diet?

ASD does not always equal GFCF as the article can lead parents to believe. Parents also need to be very wary of anyone saying that anything is “mandatory” when it comes to autism. That word disempowers the parent and our organisation is about parent empowerment.

Secondly, if there is a medical reason for the child to be put on a restrictive diet, then it absolutely has to be done by a qualified medical professional, such as a dietician, in consultation with a medical doctor.

10

December 2009/January 2010

Thirdly, there has to be accountability and oversight when parents are informed of anything “mandatory” such as putting their child on a restricted diet. Oversight has to be done by a certified, qualified, medical professional. Tampering with a growing child’s diet is dangerous and who is accountable if anything goes wrong with the child? How will an unqualified person know what to look for if they have no medical training? Dispensing medical advice without a licence is not condoned by our organisation.

Over-supplementation is another huge danger that parents need to know about.

Again, where is the accountability and oversight when parents are told to supplement their children’s diet? The difference between a nutritionist and a dietician is that a dietician is a registered medical professional with accountability to the Health Professions Council of South Africa. A nutritionist is not. A dietician has the training and knowledge to know how to monitor a child’s diet and look for potential red flags and warning signs. A nutritionist does not.

Jazel Peterzell, director, Autism Action SA I was so pleased to read the article on “autism and diet” in the October issue. The more credence given to this much misunderstood spectrum the better. I have always been interested in natural alternatives and, since the birth of my first baby, have tried my hardest to make sure that my choices – from ecofriendly nappies, diet and vaccinations to household chemicals and not microwaving – were all conscious and informed.

There was the vaccination debate a few years ago, when they seemed to be a convenient scapegoat due to some of the heavymetal content in some vaccines, but much testing has revealed that this is not the entire picture. As pointed out in your article, autism is a complex disease with many contributing factors, one of which is diet

Cape Town’s

since it appears that children on this spectrum are unable to metabolise foods and get rid of toxins, much the same way that they are unable to adequately get rid of the toxic components in vaccinations. The question is, why? I have been led to suspect that it is the unseen aspects of our environment that are doing the most harm. Most significantly, the effects of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from cell phones and wireless computers.

From what I can gather, the basic premise of the research is that EMR reduces the body’s ability to emit toxins through the cell walls, with a resultant toxic overload and possible neurological damage. This risk is especially heightened in small babies bombarded with vaccinations and surrounded by a myriad of other noxious chemicals.

Vicki Penfold

Cape Town’s

My son was diagnosed with ADHD. After many years of trial and error I have found a recipe that works. The missing link in the chain seems to be glyconutrients.

These are monosaccharides that would normally exist in vine-ripened fruit and veggies. Our diets do not contain these any more and, as a result, our bodies synthesise them at great cost. Inability to concentrate is one of the outcomes. I don’t know all the names of the saccharides but mannitose is one of them. The most noticeable change happened when my son started taking Ambrotose. There was an almost miraculous improvement.

In the morning, I give my son one teaspoon of omega-3 fish oil, one zinc tablet, half a measure of Ambrotose, 200mg of vitamin E oil and half a tablet of Solgar 2000.

I crush the tablets and put the powder in the oil on the teaspoon so he only takes one teaspoon of “muti” and doesn’t feel like he’s taking tons of pills. I rub one evening primrose tablet on his back at night (spoilt child!) and give him one calcium supplement.

I would strongly suggest this as an alternative to Ritalin. It works and has no side effects. Ritalin has been banned in many countries because of its side effects. Obviously a diet rich in fruit and veggies, grains and proteins with no junk food and plenty of exercise is imperative.

Brigitta Gaylard

write to us We would like to know what’s on your mind. Send your letters to: marina@childmag.co.za or PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. We reserve the right to edit and shorten submitted letters. The opinions reflected here are those of our readers and are not necessarily held by Hunter House Publishing.

December 2009/January 2010

11

wins

giveaways

in december & january

Big fun Sumos Play Park is an affordable, fun-filled, family-oriented venue for children aged between two and 11. It’s located at Super Plants Nursery in Bothasig, just off Link Road. The venue consists of an outdoor party area, ideal for hosting up to 18 junior guests, a sandpit, play gyms, a jumping castle, trampoline, a climbing dome and a fully-stocked candy store. Sumos is open until 5pm daily. For more information, call 021 558 4515 or email manager@sumosplaypark.co.za Sumos Play Park has 10 Sumos Official Fun Licenses to give away. Each is valued at R140 and allows unlimited access to the winner for one month. All you have to do is answer the following question: Where is Sumos Play Park?

Email your answer to competition@sumosplaypark.co.za with ‘Sumos Win’ in the subject line before 31 January 2010. Only one entry per reader.

King of the holiday camps King’s Camps is a leading sports and activity camp provider, combining the best elements of a holiday club, sports camp and activity holiday into a week of fun and adventure for children. It’s great value for money. King’s Camps is running activity camps at St George’s Grammar School from 14 to 18 December 2009. This will be a fantastic week of fun in a friendly and safe environment, with a superb range of multi-activity programmes for four- to 17-year-olds. Offering over 30 different sports and activities, there’s something for everyone at King’s Camps. For more information, call 021 300 1011 or visit kingscamps.org King’s Camps is giving away a week-long camp to five readers from 14 to 18 December or during the Easter holidays in April 2010.

Each place is worth R675. To win one of five slots, answer the following question: How many different sports and activities are covered at King’s Camps? Email your answer to info@sa.kingscamps.org with ‘Camps CT Win’ in the subject line before 31 January 2010.

Only one entry per reader.

12

December 2009/January 2010

Cape Town’s

Family fun first

Ride on...

Just Fun Toys brings you the electronic game, The Kids Are All Right based on the popular BBC TV Show. Has your family got what it takes to face seven superbrainy children in a battle of wits and defeat them in this game of logic, quick thinking and general knowledge? Over a course of five brain-busting rounds your intellect will be stretched to its limit as you try to beat the children and win the cash. This game is ideal for the whole family and children aged 7 years and older, and is available at selected mass and independent toy stockists. For more information, call 011 405 3399.

The multiple award-winning micro scooters are taking the world by storm. Designed

by Swiss company, micro mobility, micro scooters are known for their lightweight yet solid and safe construction. Children quickly master the lean steering, and gain confidence while having heaps of fun and getting their share of exercise. The mini micro offers independence on walks and outings and is silent when ridden.

It’s also highly portable and ideal to take anywhere and everywhere.

Just Fun Toys is giving away The Kids Are All Right game valued at R499.95 to three readers.

To enter, email all your details to win@childmag.co.za with ‘Just Fun CT Win’ in the subject line or post your entry to Just Fun CT Win, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010 before 31 January 2010. Only one entry per reader.

Totally stellar Cosmic Fashion Options is the place to buy imported accessories for children for all occasions. The Just Me Preschool range is perfect for young girls and the Back to School range is great for older children. Their other children’s ranges are Summer Splash, Princess, Rock Princess, All that Glitters, Kiddies’ Hosiery, Kiddies’ Basics and Kiddies’ Fashion. For more information on Cosmic Fashion Options, call 011 608 4712.

Cosmic Fashion Options is making school cool by giving away eight Back To School hair accessory packs worth R500 each, with a total value of R4 000. To enter, email your details to win@childmag.co.za with ‘Cosmic CT Win’ in the subject line or post your entry to PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010 before 31 January 2010. Only one entry per reader.

Cape Town’s

Why is the mini micro so special?

• unique lean and steer mechanism • improves balance, coordination and motor skills • develops core strength • low to the ground three-wheeled design for stability • insulated break at the back provides control • lightweight – 1.7kg • clear wheels for indoor and outdoor use • suitable for 18 months – 6 years For more information, contact micro scooters on 076 373 4796, email info@micro.co.za or visit micro.co.za micro scooters is giving away one mini micro scooter valued at R895. To enter, SMS 076 373 4796, email win@micro.co.za with ‘mini micro CT win’ in the subject line or post your entry to mini micro CT Win, PO Box 273, Constantia, 7848 before 31 January 2010. Only one entry per reader.

Congratulations to our October winners: Chantal Sissing, Louise Cantin, Mickey Jeftha and Zulpha Karriem who each win a Jessica’s gift voucher; Doné Rankin-Rowley, Hayley Kotze, Linda Aylen, Melanie Ipser and Nooria Matthews who each win an ADDvance hamper.

December 2009/January 2010

13

blog

just in time Most of us struggle to balance family-, work- and me-time and then we still have to make time for everything else

i

’m a single mom of 40 with a five-year-old boy. In March this year I felt a lump in my breast, went to the doctor, landed up in hospital for surgery and then spent a week at home convalescing. Thank all the powers that be it was “just fibrous tissue”, but the effect this had on my life was profound.

I have spent 20 years working in advertising and sales, believing that success is measured by the house I own, the car I drive and the labels I wear. Anyone who knows me will know this to be true. All this did not seem to matter while I was waiting for the results of the operation. I was thinking: who will take care of my child?

(I am lucky that I have a very good support structure);

14

December 2009/January 2010

I’ll miss everything from now on in his life; I have so little time left to achieve what I want to; what is it that I really want?

For some it takes a long time, but it took me the first day back at the office to realise this was not how I wanted to spend the next 20 years of my life. I felt like a number, a hamster on a treadmill, and then I had my “Aha” moment.

The only thing I know is advertising and the only thing I have to sell is myself, so I decided to work from home selling “me”. I did some research, found a small niche, went into semi-retirement and started a marketing and production agency working from home.

It’s been going for three months now. I don’t make the money I used to and I’ve had to cut back on a lot of things (no more take-aways), but the pay-off is

worth more than money. I take my son to school in the mornings at 8am, not 6:30am. I don’t sit in traffic getting irritated. I cook for us every day and he helps in the kitchen. I am aware of what is going on in my child’s life and the best part is… we laugh. A lot.

Yes, it’s not always easy and some things still cause stress, but I’m in charge, and anything that happens from now on is my good and my own bad.

We, women, have incredible power – it’s about time we start owning our destiny.

Readers, this is your page – it’s a space to air your views, share a valuable parenting lesson, vent your frustrations or celebrate your joys. Send your writing to marina@childmag.co.za

Cape Town’s

PHOTOGRAPH: ABLESTOCK.COM

that gets thrown our way each day. By Sammi Mew.

QA

health &

why our bodies need calcium Where is calcium found in the body?

Our bones and teeth make up 99% of the body’s calcium content.

What is the importance of calcium?

Calcium is a mineral found in many foods; adequate calcium intake is important because the human body cannot produce calcium. Even after reaching full skeletal growth, adequate calcium intake is important because the body loses calcium every day through the skin, nails, hair and sweat, as well as through urine and faeces. This lost calcium must be replaced daily through the diet. When the diet does not contain enough calcium to perform these activities, calcium is taken from the bones, the storage area for calcium.

What are the best sources of calcium?

Low fat dairy products, dark, leafy vegetables such as broccoli, kale and collards; tofu; canned salmon or sardines with bones, and calcium-fortified juice, bread and cereal. Vitamin D is important because it helps your body absorb calcium. Good sources of vitamin D include sunlight, low fat dairy products and fortified cereals.

What if you are lactose intolerant, or personal preferences prevent you from consuming calcium-rich foods?

Vitamin and mineral supplements are not the best form of calcium intake, but if you’re aware that your diet lacks calcium-rich foods then taking a supplement is an excellent option. Keep the following guidelines in mind: • Iron interferes with calcium absorption and should not be taken at the same time.

• Vitamin C helps calcium to metabolise.

• Calcium is most beneficial in two smaller doses than one large dose.

• Supplements taken with food are more effectively absorbed.

• Sleep is thought to accelerate proper calcium metabolising, so take a supplement at your evening meal.

Why are many calcium supplements combined with magnesium?

Magnesium is a mineral that is potentially involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. Magnesium plays a crucial role in regulating the neuromuscular activity of the heart, maintaining normal heart rhythm, converting blood sugar into energy, and metabolising calcium and vitamin C properly. Deficiency of magnesium can result in calcium depletion.

What are good natural sources of magnesium?

Green vegetables such as spinach are good sources of magnesium. Some legumes such as beans and peas, nuts and seeds, and whole, unrefined grains are also good sources of magnesium. Bread made from wholegrain wheat flour provides more magnesium than bread made from refined white flour. Tap water can be a source of magnesium, but the amount varies according to the water supply. Water that naturally contains more minerals is described as “hard”, which means it contains more magnesium than so-called “soft” water.

What is the daily recommended dose of calcium?

• • • • • •

The recommended calcium intake per day is: • Children 0–6 months: 210mg Children 7–12months: 270mg Children 1–3 years: 500mg Children 4–8 years: 800mg Children 9–18 years: 1 300mg Adults 19–50 years: 1 000mg Adults over 50 years:1 200mg

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

15

upfront with paul

4x4 fever PAUL KERTON finds that as his circumstances

Paul, Sabina and Saskia

m

y preferred cars of the past have always been bullets: pointy styling and very fast, with not a lot of room for a girlfriend, let alone a family of four with fluffy, yapping hitchhikers – ‘Radar Love’ (I’ve been driving all night, my hands wet on the wheel) most likely blaring from the speakers…

It’s amazing how your taste changes according to circumstances. Speed is no longer an issue. When you become a father, the pressure on the accelerator eases and you learn to cruise rather than dart about, more especially now that crafty cops are hiding in trees waiting to snap a portrait.

16

December 2009/January 2010

A two-door sports saloon is far too selfish and impractical for a FabDad, which is why a four-by-four beckons. I’ve always been allergic to four-by-fours – my feeling is, if I’d wanted to be a bus driver I would have joined Golden Arrow. Still, there is a point when the four-by-four has its merits. Like when the children start to gather friends, bikes, dogs, big handbags and bigger kitbags. You can’t get three bikes, one with training wheels (that’s mine) in a four-door Audi, without ripping the imitation cowhide to shreds. A Porsche (dream on) Boxter won’t even fit junior golf clubs, although you could feasibly stash the family in a trailer. Can you imagine a Porsche Boxter pulling a caravan though? Very déclassé.

I’m struggling to remember the point at which the four-by-four revolution happened.

The shoes came first. When I was a child I wouldn’t have been seen dead in shoes that

resembled surgical footwear, but one day the shoe shops were full of normal, sensible shoes, the next you couldn’t buy anything without a 3cm-thick Pirelli-tread sole and steel toecap. How did CAT, a rough-tough manufacturer of heavy-duty earth-moving equipment, become one of the darlings of the sartorial teenager? Marketing genius.

Next came the four-by-fours.

As the world went hiking-boot mad, transport to wild interiors became necessary. Suddenly you couldn’t buy a car that was less than a metre off the ground. School parking lots were filled with young mothers throwing people-carriers around the car park like Jensen Button, scraping the school gates with glee. It took me a while (slow learner) but I finally understand the four-by-four phenomenon and am willing to embrace it. Yes, now that four-by-fours are unfashionably non-

PC, and everybody else is buying batteryoperated kit cars that organically decay, I want one. But which one?

The Defender is far too agricultural and academic, The Land Rover Discovery and Freelander 2 are back from the dead to restore the company’s sterling reputation.

Audi’s Q5 and Q7 look like executive squad cars. The BMW X5 may be the Premier’s escort car of choice, but what about Hyundai, Toyota, Renault and Jeep?

With children, more than the car, it’s the colour that’s important. Yellow, I joke, “No, Dad, you are not getting a yellow car? If you do, we’re not getting in it,” chorus the girls. Look, I wouldn’t even get a yellow submarine, but I’m seriously bored with Berliner Zilver. Decisions, decisions…

Paul Kerton is the author of FabDad – a Man’s Guide to Fathering and 82 Mistakes Parents Make (with Children).

Cape Town’s

PHOTOGRAPH: JILL BADER

change, so too does his taste in cars.

QA

health &

stay safe in the sun this summer What exactly are UV rays?

Sunlight consists of three types of harmful rays: ultraviolet A (UVA), UVB and UVC rays. UVA rays (which penetrate window glass) enter deeper into the dermis, the thickest layer of the skin. UVA rays can result in the suppression of the immune system, which interferes with your body’s ability to protect you against the development and spread of skin cancer. The UVB rays (which are largely blocked by window glass) are the sun’s burning rays and are the primary cause of sunburn. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, tanning beds and sun lamps is carcinogenic (contains cancer-causing substances).

When should sunscreen be used?

During the hotter months, sunscreen should be applied daily to exposed skin. Don’t forget the back of your hands for when you are driving – UVA rays can penetrate glass windows. On a cloudy day, up to 80% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays can pass through the clouds.

How much and how often?

Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors. Enough product to fill a shot glass is considered to be the correct amount needed to cover the exposed areas of the body properly. Reapply at least every two hours or after swimming or perspiring heavily. Even so-called “water-resistant” sunscreens may lose their effectiveness after 40 minutes in the water. Sunscreens rub off so if you’ve towel-dried, you should reapply. Don’t forget to apply lip balm – with an SPF of 30 or higher.

What is an SPF? SPF stands for sun protection factor. The SPF rating is calculated by comparing the amount of time needed to cause sunburn on sunscreen-protected skin to the amount of time needed to cause a sunburn on unprotected skin. For example, if a sunscreen is rated SPF2 and a person who would normally turn red after 10 minutes of sun exposure uses it, it would take 20 minutes of exposure for the skin to turn red.

What else can I do to protect my family from the sun?

Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Hang out in the shade between 10am and 4pm and be cautious near water and sand due to the reflection factor. Get vitamin D through a healthy diet that may include vitamin supplements instead of hours of sun time. Say no to tanning beds. Check your and your children’s naked bodies. If you notice anything changing, growing or bleeding on your skin, see a dermatologist. Skin cancer is treatable if caught early.

Is there a safe way to tan?

No. To sport a bronzed look this summer without damaging your skin, try a spray-on tan. Gone are the days of messy spray-on tans or self-tan lotions. Today’s modern technology spray-tanning can safely give you a more even and natural look.

Are tanning beds a safer way to tan?

No. The amount of the radiation they produce is similar to the sun.

What do I look for in a good sunscreen?

A good sunscreen should have the ability to moisturise your skin, prevent ageing by stimulating collagen and also offer unparalleled sun protection. Look for all the following ingredients in your sunblock the next time you go shopping: Fernblock, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, Tinosorb and Parsol MCX. Information supplied by Dr Kamlen Pillay, medical director, The Wembley Clinic.

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

17

feature

motherand son DONNA COBBAN gathers a few helpful tips as

hen I was little my mother used to tell my sister and me how glad she was that she had girls and not boys “because boys are harder to raise than girls.”

Then she would say that the only mother she knew of who had raised fine men was Nancy McLean. Whenever we went to stay with Nancy, whose sons were by then grown, I would sit quietly and marvel at this great mother who had raised great men against the odds.

Then, many years later, I gave birth to a boy. I was glad I had a boy and not a girl. There was going to be no temptation to live my unfulfilled childhood dreams through him – no squeezing his feet into pointe shoes to practise his pliés, no need to buy him the entire Barbie house along with requisite Barbie sports car and hair styling salon. Nope, I thought, this was going to be easier than having a girl; my mother must have been wrong.

But, just in case, I call her up and ask: “What was it that Nancy McLean did to raise such fine men?”

18

December 2009/January 2010

“Oh it’s not that hard,” she says. “She got involved with everything they did, so if they were into cricket, she learnt all about cricket, or if they were interested in frogs, she followed suit. In other words, she kept a keen interest in all that they did and, in turn, kept them close.”

This is something my old friend Thandi is learning – she who has steered clear of all Bokke-related matters her whole life can now rattle off the names of the team with effortless ease. I am truly impressed, and just a little amazed.

For the time being, I am spared from the Saturday afternoon game as my son is only two, but I am staying involved in other ways. I have developed an interest in sand and the endless architectural possibilities contained within these particles – we build sand castles, sand cakes, sand balls and sand sandwiches. We live to encounter sand – in pits, or on beaches and often in cat litter trays. The stuff is everywhere.

While I model my mothering on the Nancy McLean style, I still think I need ongoing counsel so I turn to the trusty pages of some renowned books. Dan Kindlon and Michael

Cape Town’s

PHOTOGRAPHS: COMSTOCKCOMPLETE.COM, ABLESTOCK.COM

she goes about trying to grow a good man.

Thompson, authors of Raising Cain: Protecting the Emotional Lives of Boys, underline the necessity to give boys an emotional education and stress the importance of staying connected to them, especially when they are feeling confused and bewildered. They say failure to do so can result in a lack of self respect, and cause boys to act impulsively, moved by emotions they cannot name or understand. They then exercise their emotional ignorance in cruel treatment of one another or girls, and could express this inner turmoil in academic failure, depression, drug addiction, alcoholism, troubled relationships or delinquency.

“

She got involved with everything they did, so if they were into cricket, she learnt all about cricket, or if they were interested in frogs, she followed suit.

“

The line is a fine one for any young lad to tread in a world that expects him to be a “big boy” before he is big and cares little for his emotional needs. Perhaps my greatest lesson in this area comes from a time when I was teaching a young class of demoralised children.

They were the bottom class in the grade and had been given a hard time by a previous teacher. While most of the children were barely taller than my shoulder, there was one boy, Matthew, who towered above me.

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

19

The line is a fine one for any young lad to tread in a “world that expects him to be a “big boy” before he is

“

big and cares little for his emotional needs.

recommended reading Raising Cain: Protecting the Emotional Life of Boys by Dan Kindlon, Michael Thompson and Teresa Barker (Ballintine Books, 2000) Between Mothers and Sons edited by Patricia Stevens (Simon and Schuster, 2001) It’s a boy! Understanding Your Son’s Development from Birth to Age 18 by Teresa Barker and Michael Thompson (Ballintine Books, 2008) Speaking of Boys: Answers to the Most-Asked Questions About Raising Sons by Michael Thompson and Teresa Barker (Ballintine Books, 2000) Bringing Up Boys by James Dobson (Tynedale House Publishers, 2001)

20

December 2009/January 2010

The class was filled with enthusiasm; they had a new teacher – life was on the up.

By the end of the first week I had made a grave error – I had dismissed Matthew over something fairly minor (I think his great height made me think he was a “big boy”, who did not need as much encouragement as the others). He was anything but and my lack of praise was a crushing and cruel blow to this young boy, who was still so little inside.

Matthew needs to take all the credit for my now daily vigilance of the “big boy” trap.

For advice on what to do when my son really becomes big, I ask an older mother, Elizabeth, about her secret. Sport, she tells me, will help to keep them out of trouble. “Did they drink and drug?” I ask. Sadly, she tells me that alcohol consumption seems to be a given but the bright side is that if they are involved in sport, they have to raise a hung-over head from the bed so they are less likely to overindulge too often.

Steve Biddulph, author of the bestselling book Raising Boys, believes that sport can be a double-edged sword in that it can give boys “a sense of belonging, character, self esteem and good health.” But it can also “cripple them in body, warp them in mind, teach them bad values and lead to a crushing sense of failure.”

Biddulph suggests that if your son is not good at sports that he finds time to pursue other activities, preferably with his father or a male role model. Try fishing, hiking, bike riding, building model planes and trains, art, music, drama – there are a wealth of things to do together that don’t involve competitive ball throwing and do involve communication or as Biddulph puts it “the simple pleasure of being together”.

So there it is again, keeping interested is going to keep them close. Best I go and read up on the rules of rugby… just in case.

Cape Town’s

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

21

feature

Hand-me-downs or off the peg? Home-made or seamstress-sewn?

Jeanne Maclay-Mayers searches for the answers.

hen a mom says: “this baby-making factory is now closed,” it means she isn’t going to store away her toddler’s outgrown dungarees “just in case”. Instead, she’s going to pass them down the great hand-me-down chain, perhaps to us. We are very grateful for the bulging plastic bags that we regularly receive from friends and family. Boutique baby-grows, pyjamas with fruit stains, ballet leotards, unmatched socks, a turquoise swimming cap decorated with tiny watermelons – every rummage is a voyage of discovery.

In most cases, just as I am about to go clothes shopping I find out that I don’t need to, because everything Tash, my four-year-old daughter, needs has just arrived.

Tash’s cousin, Jessica, is a year older than her, which is

22

December 2009/January 2010

the perfect gap for hand-me-downs. When I told Tash one day that we were going out to get her bigger shoes she nodded happily and interpreted this for herself, saying: “We’re going to Jessica’s”.

“Not today,” I announced. “We’re going to the shops.”

Of course, when out shopping for shoes it is easy to be tempted by the new clothes on offer. With guilty pleasure I bought her a handkerchief skirt covered in butterflies.

(She has so many skirts at home.) But Tash loves her butterfly skirt and the way it flares out at 360 degrees when she twirls.

She also loves choosing her own clothes. Recently she selected a My Little Pony T-shirt and a Hello Kitty swimsuit.

The shops have a fabulous range of children’s clothes, and,

Cape Town’s

PHOTOGRAPHS: Pumpkin Patch Kids Clothing, COMSTOCKCOMPLETE.COM, ABLESTOCK.COM

a question of clothes

while for Tash “more is more”, it is even possible to find wholesome garments free of modern icons and logos.

There are times when one wants something special; something that is not on offer in the shops. My friends Linda le Roux and Joanne Polzin are talented women who can create that “something special” themselves. Linda whipped up a Po outfit from scratch so that her son Logan could look like the red Teletubby for his second birthday. Joanne knitted a jersey for her daughter Geena (then 4) that had a polar bear curling around one shoulder, and Geena still squeezes herself into this even though she is now eight. But Joanne confesses that she prefers to create accessories that she can be sure of finishing before her children grow too big for them, such as multicoloured beanies and crocheted bags.

Joanne says she makes clothes and accessories partly for the creative fun of it all, and partly because she wants her children to feel they have something unique that she has made especially for them. For Joanne: “Putting love

and effort into making something is what distinguishes it from a bought commodity.”

Inspired by such efforts I thought – for a moment – of trying to sew Tash a dress. But I soon came to my senses because when it comes to sewing, well, my skills extend to reattaching buttons; I still aspire to hem.

But one can always find a seamstress to make one’s dreams a reality. When Tash started refusing to wear jerseys, tracksuit tops and even long-sleeved shirts because they interfered with her vision of how a princess looked, I hatched a plan where we would design some warm winter dresses together that she simply could not resist wearing.

So in autumn we visited a fabric factory that is a manylevelled wonder. Then we drew pictures of long-sleeved dresses that could flare into full circles, and I made an appointment to see the skilled seamstress that had made my wedding dress.

Gairo Hendricks translated our sketches into beautiful outfits, although not exactly what I had envisioned.

With guilty pleasure I bought her a handkerchief skirt covered in butterflies.

Cape Town’s

For Joanne, “Putting love and effort into making something is what distinguishes it from a bought commodity.”

December 2009/January 2010

23

I suppose that whenever a man wants a woman to dress differently, all sorts of feminist-type issues arise. But when a child asks, the intentions are clear: someone who loves her mom just wants her mom to look the best she can.

I had imagined the dresses flaring at the waist while in reality they flared at the ribs in a traditional empire line.

Clearly Gairo was a seamstress used to making formal dresses for flower girls. But as Tash’s dress sense is informed largely by animated fairy tales she was delighted with her new outfits. I am particularly fond of the one we call “Tinkerbell’s winter dress”, which is made of a fluffy green fabric and has a zig-zag hemline at the bottom.

Most importantly, the dresses kept Tash warm throughout winter without me having to force her into something she felt was unsightly – and early-morning arguments were kept to a minimum. The new dresses weren’t completely necessary though, as Tash also developed a system where she wore a warm jersey and leggings under her cousin’s old summer dresses. To me she looked a little odd, but her teacher assures us she is setting a new fashion at her preschool.

Tash’s latest obsession has been getting me to dress like a princess as well. To her frustration, she was born to the kind of mom that likes to live in jeans and shapeless

24

December 2009/January 2010

jerseys, but she is determined to change this. And, while I am unlikely ever to be as interested in clothes as much as she is, I have noticed myself making a bit more effort in what I choose to wear.

My husband has been trying to change my dress sense – towards dresses – for years. So, naturally, I have given some thought to why it is that when my daughter asks, I oblige. I suppose that whenever a man wants a woman to dress differently, all sorts of feminist-type issues arise.

But when a child asks, the intentions are clear: someone who loves her mom just wants her mom to look the best she can.

Sometimes Tash and I go shopping together – not for her – for me. Down the road there is a tiny factory shop that supplies the boutiques around town, and it is closing down soon. While it is unlikely to kit me out like a Disney princess, we are planning to pop in for their closing-down sale, so that I can become the final accessory that young Tash wants: a well-dressed mom.

Cape Town’s

feature

when they’re

too quiet…

Every parent longs for a bit of peace and quiet, but you need to be aware of the diabolical shenanigans and potential danger of too-quiet children, warns LAURA TWIGGS.

s most parents know, there are different kinds of quiet. There’s good quiet, which is when you know full well that the children are tucked up in their beds, sound asleep. There’s bad quiet, which is the long moment just before a raging tantrum is unleashed. And then there’s the most unnerving sort of quiet of all, when it dawns on you that the house is too quiet, and in a second you realise that it’s been too quiet for far too long. When did

Cape Town’s

you last yell out at the children to keep it down? They’ve been playing noisily all morning and it’s been driving you nuts. You haven’t been able to hear yourself think. But now, the silence is as deafening as it is all encompassing. You haven’t heard raised voices saying “That’s mine!” or “I’m the teacher” for ages. All you can hear is… nothing. It’s the sort of quiet that sends a chill down seasoned parents’ spines, the sort of silence that’s as ominous as an eight-foot-tall

Bratz doll wielding an axe and laughing maniacally. It can mean only one thing: they’re up to no good.

For mother-of-twins, Nicola*, this sort of silence is now her cue to reach for the camera and track down her children. “I have learnt to sneak up on them when they’ve been too quiet for too long, because I know that they’re up to something so wild that no one would ever believe me without incontrovertible evidence,” she says. Her photo

December 2009/January 2010

25

“

The silence is as deafening as it is all encompassing. You haven’t heard raised voices saying “That’s mine!” or “I’m the teacher” for ages.

All you can hear is… nothing.

“

26

December 2009/January 2010

album bears testimony to her words: there’s a picture of two naughty children covered in white dust powder gathered around a huge amorphous mass of goo on a previously pristine shag-pile carpet. “That was Fissan paste, three new baby powders and an entire bottle of Chanel No 5,” explains Nicola. “They had decided to make a cake. They were three,” she says. “Now I can smile about it, but at the time it was a disaster. The vacuum wouldn’t suck up all the powder and I never properly got the stain out of that carpet. That was when I started keeping my perfumes well out of reach!”

In another photograph, the twins are looking very, very sorry, more than a little scared, and very muddy. “This was shortly before they turned eight,” says Nicola. She doesn’t smile about this one, though. The picture shows the boys in a huge deep hole that looks like an ugly wound in an otherwise immaculate garden. “Apparently, they were playing ‘trenchtrench’. They’d heard about World War I from their granddad

and didn’t realise how big they were making the hole,” she says. “I could have killed them. I had thoughts about those stories of children that die after falling in holes, suffocating, or are buried alive when the holes collapse.”

This gets to the very nub of the danger of “too quiet”.

It’s one thing for children to take themselves off out of sight and earshot, to spend hours quietly amusing themselves cutting the glossy illustrations out of an expensive set of encyclopaedias, or finger-painting the walls with your new Guerlain KissKiss Gold and Diamonds lipstick that retailed in 2007 at R480 000 a pop. It’s quite another when they stealthily decide to show their friend the workings of dad’s gun.

Durban mother Candice was horrified, for example, when she went to investigate what the children were up to after she had noticed the drop in decibel levels and found that her six-year-old daughter and her little play-date were happily taking turns to lock each other in the boot of her car. In June this year, quiet four-year-old Daniel Blair made

Cape Town’s

childproof your house The Child Accident Prevention Foundation of Southern Africa offers the following tips.

For their comprehensive guide, go to childsafe.org.za

“

I have learnt to sneak up on them with a camera when they’ve been too quiet for too long, because I know that they’re up to something so wild that no one would ever believe me without incontrovertible evidence.

“

world headlines when he silently occupied himself by giving their week-old puppy a “bath” in the loo, and accidentally flushed the pup down the toilet. (Dog lovers will be pleased to hear that the cocker spaniel survived.) Tragically, there are a number of children who drown each year, when their “too quiet” games revolve around swimming pools. So tune your ears into the gnawing silence. At best, it will offer some wonderful photo opportunities, and may even save a life.

Cape Town’s

• Install child-safety latches on all cupboards containing dangerous products.

• Ensure potentially poisonous products have childproof caps, and lock them out of reach.

• Secure bookshelves and furniture that can topple over.

• Safety glass should be used for sliding doors and large glass panes. Mark doors at your child’s height with stickers or tape.

• Store alcoholic beverages out of reach of children in a lockable cupboard.

• Never leave matches or lighters lying around.

• Make sure you know which plants in your garden are poisonous. Place poisonous plants out of reach.

• Always empty the bath when finished.

• Lock away all medicines and avoid leaving medication on your bedside table. Install child locks on medicine cupboards.

• Store razors and other hazardous products like turpentine, cleaning products and pool chemicals well out of reach or lock them away.

• Attach toilet-seat guards on toilets.

• Ensure garden and other tools are locked away, out

of sight. Make sure that when they are in use that children are supervised.

• Set your hot-water cylinder to a safer temperature (50˚C or less).

• Never burn candles where children can reach them.

Always extinguish them when leaving the room.

• Children should not be allowed to play on furniture.

• Always try and supervise play. Buy age-appropriate toys and games.

• Throw away broken toys or have them repaired.

• All outdoor play should be supervised.

• Always keep the garden shed locked and teach children not to play in it.

• The most dangerous area in the garden is the pool.

Make sure it is either fenced with an SABS-approved fence or have a safety net installed.

• Always empty paddle pools after use.

• Cover deep ponds with a net or mesh.

• Keep car doors locked in the garage or driveway. If using an electronic garage door, make sure that it stops if it touches an obstacle.

• Never leave children unattended near a braai fire.

December 2009/January 2010

27

feature

surviving Christmas It’s the so-called season of goodwill, and yet Christmas can cause huge family strife. Maybe it’s time to break away from Christmases past and make new traditions, suggests Laura Twiggs.

e

very year, mother of two, Sandra* starts dreading Christmas from around September. “I know that any day now, my mother will be on the phone trying to make me commit to cooking a turkey and helping her make an enormous hot lunch with all the trimmings, and ensuring that we will be at Midnight Mass with my siblings and extended family. It’s a nightmare. My husband is an atheist and won’t budge on the Mass issue, and thinks Christmas is nothing more than a commercial enterprise. He’s happy enough for the children to get a present and to have a family get-together, but this isn’t good enough for my folks. Inevitably, I feel torn and land up fighting with everyone. Come Boxing Day, my mother isn’t talking to me, my husband is a shell-shocked zombie who feels manipulated and voiceless and I find myself wondering what on earth I’m going to do with the mountain of gammon, turkey and chipolatas that my mom wrapped in tin foil and pressed upon me as we were leaving. If I could, I’d bypass the whole thing and take the family camping, but my mom would see that as a declaration of war, and besides, I’d feel terribly guilty about not being with my parents on Christmas. It seems that I just can’t win.”

Sound familiar? Well, it probably won’t help to learn that if it does, you’re not alone. Family conflict escalates over the festive season, coming to a nasty head on Christmas day for many families.

One of the main reasons for this is a difference of opinion between generations on how the day should be spent, and this only becomes more dire when there are conflicting religious and cultural beliefs thrown into the mix. It seems we can keep these from the spotlight for most of the year, but at Christmas, they come out of their hideyholes and are revealed in all their divisive complexity.

Interestingly, Cape Town-based counselling psychologist Dr Rosa Bredekamp notes that the day itself is wholly innocent. “Christmas is traditionally a day celebrated by Christians the world over to commemorate the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, but we now know that 25 December is actually not Christ’s birth date, and that it might have been chosen to correspond with a Roman festival or the winter solstice in the northern hemisphere,” she says. “Christmas has been associated and invested with other symbolic meanings besides the birth of Christ from a very early age, so even people from other cultures may celebrate this day in their own unique and idiosyncratic way.

Christmas is also celebrated by many secular, non-Christian people as a way of demonstrating their affection and care for loved ones,” she says.

The thing to remember in the bustle to prepare for Christmas, says Dr Bredekamp, is that however your family and loved ones conceive of Christmas, it really is an opportunity to bring your family closer together “and to interact in a meaningful manner. All festivals, celebrations, holidays and special days are important in the lives of families and help children feel that they belong. Sharing celebrations, religious events and holidays also helps build a cohesive society,” she says.

But “cohesion” around Christmas can take a long time to come by. ‘”For years I hated Christmas because it was the only time of year that there would be terrible tension between my immediate family and parents and my in-laws,” explains Karen*, mother of sixyear-old Noah*. Karen converted to Judaism in order to marry her husband, Joel*, eight years ago. “My in-laws were not happy that Noah took part in the Christmas tradition of my immediate family, but how could we leave him out when all of his cousins on my

PHOTOGRAPHS AND ILLUSTRATIONS: SXC.HU

All festivals, celebrations, holidays and special days are important in the lives of families and help children feel that they belong.

28

December 2009/January 2010

Cape Town’s

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

29

side were part of it? They spend a lot of time together and it would just have been so unfair to deny him the Christmas excitement,” says Karen. “Eventually I’d had enough of the political undercurrents and sat everyone down and explained that we were happy to expose Noah to a range of traditions and that we didn’t think this would be confusing because he’s never going to be anything but Jewish.

I grew up with Father Christmas and wanted him to have that, too.

I don’t see it as a conflict. Eventually everyone calmed down. They might not agree, but I have made it clear that this is my call,” she says firmly.

Dr Bredekamp says that parents like Karen are “permitting their children to experience a wide variety of opportunities and value systems which they can integrate into their own world view or belief system at a stage when they are emotionally and spiritually more mature”. She continues: “People may ask whether children are not receiving conflicting messages if they are exposed to different cultural beliefs and customs, but the challenge of living in a diverse society is actually to be able to tolerate differences and acknowledge that we (not one specific culture or religion) do not have all the answers to life’s questions. So children from a mixed background might be better equipped to deal with, tolerate and respect others who are from different backgrounds and be more open-minded in general. I see this as an advantage for survival in the so-called global village where we are more exposed to different environments and people, and where, I believe, accepting religious diversity might lead to greater religious tolerance.”

However, it’s not just the outright conflict between religious beliefs and cultures that causes tension around Christmas. Even those from the same belief system, faith and world view can find themselves at odds over ingrained family traditions that have nothing whatsoever to do with faith. Even the most secular of households can find themselves torn in what seem like a thousand different directions trying to comply with the expectations of both extended families.

“It always felt like there was some competition between our parents,” admits Colleen*. “Both my husband and my parents have a tradition of doing Christmas Eve, which means we have had to choose, and it always caused tension. Eventually we decided that we had to go back to the drawing board and take control, because we felt like pawns and could never please everyone.” Colleen and Mike decided to break free of their familial expectations and start

their own Christmas tradition. They decided to host Christmas themselves, and to shift the focus to Christmas lunch. “Neither of our parents were very keen at first; they were both very attached to the way they did things. But we held our ground, and now we have managed to get it right in a way that includes everyone, and avoids the terrible stress and tension,” she says. “We have a relaxed lunch and all of our siblings and family come to our house.

I didn’t want to have to do the old-fashioned thing and so we now have a braai, and everyone is asked to bring something specific. I refuse to spend three days in the kitchen the way my mother used to. We’ve been very clear that Christmas day is an opportunity for the whole family to come together and share time, and that is the real point and focus.

“My mother was horrified at first and it’s taken some time for her to stop asking about bread sauce and brandy butter. But now she says she wishes she had thought of it because it would have spared her so much trouble and sweat over the years. We also have laid down the law about presents because, let’s face it, who gets the gift of their dreams at Christmas?

We now give our children gifts before they come to lunch and at lunch, we have a secret Santa that is capped at R200 per gift, meaning that all that money and time spent in the shops is done away with. After every Christmas lunch, when everyone has left, Mike and I sit back and congratulate ourselves for taking this stand. The pressure has gone out of Christmas and, what’s more, we have started our very own tradition that totally includes everyone and makes it a lovely, unstressful day.”

Among the many changes to the “traditional Christmas” that Colleen and Mike have made is changing the notion of Christmas trees. “We decided to buy a tree and do a ceremonial planting of it in the garden rather than forking out for a pine tree that will shed its brown needles all over the carpet,” says Mike. “Another tradition we have started, and which the children love, is that all the cousins, and there are seven of them under the age of 13, put on a play after lunch: a musical variety show that is always hilarious.”

So, maybe it’s time to take a leaf from their book and put those ghosts of Christmas past to rest. Who knows, you might find yourself having that “merry little Christmas” that Judy Garland sang about. “Let your heart be light/From now on, our troubles will be out of sight.” Imagine that? * Names have been changed

Even the most secular of households can find themselves torn in what seem like a thousand different directions trying to comply with the expectations of both extended families.

avoid Christmas stress • Look for ways to take the pressure off yourself. Delegate. Plan a menu and then ask family members to bring specific items, from Christmas crackers to festive serviettes.

This way you will avoid bearing all the expense as well as stress.

• To avoid a last-minute rush, ask those who are going to bring key items to drop them off at your house the day before Christmas.

• Silence that voice that’s telling you that everything has to be perfect. It doesn’t. Don’t allow yourself to succumb to the silly season’s pressure.

• Sit down with your family and decide on exactly what you want Christmas to be.

Do it your own way.

• Don’t over-spend: this will only lead to greater stress in the new year.

30

December 2009/January 2010

Cape Town’s

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

31

feature

discipline the peaceful way HELENA KINGWILL looks at more

w

hile canes are now a relic of the past, I am willing to bet that a large majority of fathers today were once caned for something they barely remember. Those who I have spoken to can still recall their horror at the sadistic behaviour of some teachers.

Instead of being caned, girls were punished with various forms of hard labour, such as scrubbing stoves in the Domestic Science lab. Then, of course, there was also the dreaded detention. Even then, in my boarding school days, I decided I would not want my children to go through that.

In the wake of a rebel generation of parents, who have swung away from the old ways, a new wave of wild children is rocking the schools. Teachers today are all too familiar with children who have never been taught basic rules and boundaries. Children are growing up in different circumstances – parents work longer hours, which means that their children are in child care for longer periods, often resulting in lavish treats being dished out in an attempt to compensate for the lost time spent together.

Depression, drug and alcohol abuse are on the increase and traditional family values are changing. So how do we discipline in today’s world without reaching for the cane?

In a bid to keep their children ‘happy’, many parents avoid confrontation by allowing their offspring to get away

32

December 2009/January 2010

with more and more, until they find themselves constantly trying to figure out ways to escape from these (cute) little tyrants who have taken over their lives and their homes.

When parents have been run ragged by their unruly children and are under all kinds of external pressures, the only way they know to bring back control tends to be the reflex reaction of the fear-based threats and violent punishments that were practiced on them. Sadly, this is exactly what they were trying to prevent in the first place by avoiding confrontation.

Getting into the habit of praising and encouraging your children and taking note of the good things they do naturally encourages them to be more cooperative.

When I found myself floundering in the terrifying trenches of my domestic war zone after my own minityrants had worn me down and wrung me out, I dragged myself off to Karen Quail’s Discipline for Peace workshops,

where I regained some composure among a number of other frustrated parents all seeking guidance. Quail recognised the need for a tool kit of positive parenting skills after watching battered children being sent home from Child Welfare (where she worked) into the arms of parents who lacked parenting skills and whose only motivating factor not to beat their children again was a restraining order.

Quail is a mother of two boys, a viola player, school teacher, counsellor and occasional foster parent. She developed a course based on the positive parenting concepts described by John Gray in his book Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus, Children are from Heaven as well as from her own experiences.

The idea is based on the principle that children are born innocent and good. Her approach requires parents to break the habit of demanding obedience using threats and acts of punishment and work towards cooperation by regularly acknowledging the positive things they have done and offering rewards as motivation to do more. Gray presents a set of alternatives to spanking, shaming and punishing including new ways of asking. Instead of ordering, rewards are given and punishment and time-outs replace spanking.

It is the opposite of the archaic thinking that one must

Cape Town’s

PHOTOGRAPHS: COMSTOCKCOMPLETE.COM

effective ways of disciplining a child.

It is the opposite of the archaic thinking that one must “break the rebellious child’s spirit” in order to set them on the right path. “break the rebellious child’s spirit” in order to set them on the right path. “Demanding obedience from your children numbs their inner will… and disconnects them from their potential to create the life they are here to live,” says Gray.

Rewards are a basic energy exchange, like using a carroton-a-stick incentive rather than the stick to whip them into submission. Also, rewards do not have to be sweets. They can be the promise of a story or time together.

Although this may sound soft, the positive parenting approach does not compromise on control. Gray’s updated version of the old adage “spare the rod and spoil the child” is: “When a child forgets who’s boss, you spoil the child. Children need to play in the magical world of childhood without being responsible. In situations where adults are not creating boundaries and structure and children find themselves having to make too many choices, they disconnect from their natural willingness to cooperate and become demanding, selfish, needy or just more resistant,” he says.

“Being a parent is like playing the viola in public and learning the instrument as one goes along,” Quail tells us

as she passes her viola around and asks each of us to give it a go. It struck me that playing a violin, or any instrument, requires a certain amount of self-discipline (not unlike parenting). She then pointed out that the word ‘discipline’ (derived from the Latin meaning ‘to teach’) is the root of the word ‘disciple’. So it seems we have been missing the point when we have tried to beat children into submission… no wonder we live in such a torn apart world.

“Children learn from role models,” writes Gray, “not from lectures.” It doesn’t help to shout angrily at your children when they ignore your requests. “Our methods of discipline should model our values, not contradict them.

We must ‘be the change we want’,” explains Quail.

Everyone makes mistakes, and children are quick to forgive when you apologise if you lose your temper once in a while. Finding a way to keep an even keel in order to keep things consistent and sane has to be a priority, at least until they are old enough to balance their own boats in stormy waters.

“Children come into this world with the ability to love their parents,” Gray writes, “however they learn to love

themselves by the way they are treated by their parents and how their parents react when they make mistakes.”

It is quite normal for children to resist authority and to make mistakes. These are opportunities for learning and growing. It is up to the parents to use these opportunities positively.

Getting into the habit of praising and encouraging your children and taking note of the good things they do naturally encourages them to be more cooperative.

As a rule, Quail suggests one should aim to mention positive behaviour three times more than the negative.

This may require a conscious effort to change an old pattern.

In this crazy chaotic world, self-containment and selfdiscipline are the greatest gifts you can give your child.

Quail says that she can’t go from “Naught to Mama in 10 seconds,” so she makes sure she wakes up before her children and has a little time for her yoga and meditation before the day begins. Do whatever works for you.

Perhaps the challenge of having children is to grow up and take charge. It’s certainly mine.

discipline for peace checklist 1. Space What space are you in emotionally? Take a deep breath. Is your home cluttered and disordered? Are colours glaring and noises blaring? Try to banish clutter and any other over stimulating factors like noise that cause discomfort. Sensitive children in particular will react badly to noise and clutter.

2. Ritual and rhythm Children love predictability. It makes them feel safe. Regular schedules and daily rituals are very important.

3. Ask Don’t demand or order. Become aware of how you communicate. Are you using the same voice of authority you despised as a child? Use words like ‘would’ rather than ‘could’. Say ‘please’. Use inclusive language like ‘let’s do this’; don’t yell or use angry manipulative emotions. Don’t lecture. Be direct. Be assertive, not aggressive or passive.

4. Preparation and structure Prepare them in advance for transitions in their day by telling them clearly what the next sequence of events or activities will be and what to expect.

5. Listen Children often resist when there is something bothering them and their needs are not being met. Make it possible for them to communicate when something is bothering them.

6. Distraction and direction Good for tantrums over sweeties or toys.

7. Time-out Not longer than three minutes if they are three years old and four if they are four, etc.

8. Adjustment of boundaries Reining them in when they are taking advantage, or removing an object they are using to be destructive.

Cape Town’s

recommended reading Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus, Children are from Heaven – How to Have Strong, Confident Children

by John Gray (Vermilion, 1999).

December 2009/January 2010

33

feature

poker face Should you teach children to play poker? JEANNE MACLAY-MAYERS

y grandfather called it “the devil’s game”. My dad taught us how to play it. In fact, my dad was an ace poker player, so much so that he was planning to earn his crust through poker games at one stage, until he met my mom and gradually took up more middle-class ways. But he never lost his love of poker, and would pass on his skills to us children after suppertime in suburbia.

By his manner my dad imbued the game with a raffish charm, but he was adamant that winning the game was mainly about working with statistics. And that is probably the main lesson that poker offers: how to size up your chances of winning when you are considering different options.

As I recently explained to Max Hoffenberg, it is always tempting to try for a high-scoring straight or flush, but your

34

December 2009/January 2010

chances of successfully getting the cards to complete your straight or flush are slim. It is much wiser to aim for three of a kind. Poker can teach children the relationship between risk and returns, and where they like to position themselves on the low-risk/high-risk continuum (although Max, at age nine, was more focused on the word “flush” and its potential in toilet humour).

Poker is also about people skills. Bluffing may be the best known (or most notorious) of these, but while bluffing does play a part in any game, just as valuable is being able to recognise the situations you shouldn’t try to bluff your way through. Also important is learning how to be a good loser, and how to quash the desire to gloat once you have won, which, if not mastered young, can lose you friends in the heady days of your adult successes.

Cape Town’s

PHOTOGRAPHS: COMSTOCKCOMPLETE.COM

gives us her take on a much debated activity.

Then there is the “poker face” – which my longstanding friend Marcus Coetzee could never master. When playing with our family, young Marcus preferred to turn his back to the game, but we still speculated aloud about his cards and learnt to tell by his giggles whether we were right or not. Since then Marcus (now 36) has become a successful businessman, albeit a straight-talking one. Would a poker face have helped him in his career? I suspect it could come in handy in some situations. Poker is also a mine of sensible proverbs, for example: “Don’t throw good money after bad”. If you have been betting money on a particular hand, don’t be too stubborn to quit.

Some might say that a youth spent playing poker with matchsticks, Smarties or spiral pasta will lead to a gambling problem in later life, which involves real money.

Cape Town’s

In my case it hasn’t; the only time I have entered our local casino is to go ice-skating. As far as I can tell, gamblers believe in luck. They go to a casino and hope fortune will smile upon them. But the very existence of the casino, its glossy exterior and luxury detailing, should tell them that fortune is smiling on the establishment and not its patrons. It has been said that gambling (with real money) is a tax on stupidity.

My childhood of poker did not lead me to believe in luck. However, clearly some people do have a gambling problem, and in some cases this can ruin their lives and those of their loved ones. Some of those people must have learnt gambling at a young age. Did their youthful experience of playing poker with their parents lead to their later problems?

Poker can teach children the relationship between risk and returns, and where they like to position themselves on the lowrisk/high-risk continuum…

December 2009/January 2010

35

Dr Alissa Sklar of Canada’s International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors thinks that parents should be careful about the messages sent out by their own behaviour. She believes: “If children see [parents] playing occasionally for fun, and with nothing of real value, it can send a positive message. Children who see parents gamble excessively learn something different altogether, and it can lead to problems for them later on.”

According to her organisation: “Children need to be taught to recognise the difference between skill and chance, and they need to understand that if they do gamble (even with matchsticks), they need to ‘know their limit and play within it’. Playing poker with children can be one way to teach them these things, but it should be done in an open way, with discussion about risk.”

She also adds a cautionary note, reminding parents that “the younger children are when they start gambling,

the more they are at risk for developing problems later on”. She warns that a big win early on can be a risk factor, because it makes children feel like they are particularly lucky or skilled at games of chance.

doing.” Research from his organisation suggests that 90% of the people it helps started gambling before adulthood.

This zero-tolerance approach to children and poker is shared by Rayda Jacobs, author of the novel Confessions of a Gambler. She says: “Knowing what I know now, I would never teach my children how to play poker. The reality is that Gamblers Anonymous is full of addicts who have learnt the game from parents or friends. Do you know whether your child has an addictive nature? And would you take the chance?”

After these sobering thoughts, will I teach poker to my daughter? I am sure I will, because I believe that in most situations education and moderation are a more effective combination than outright prohibition, which can leave children (and later the adult they become) quite naïve and susceptible to life’s scamsters. However, I will teach her not to play with money, because the thought of winning

Some might say that a youth spent playing poker with matchsticks, Smarties or spiral pasta will lead to a gambling problem in later life, which involves real money.

36

December 2009/January 2010

Raj Govender, a director of the South African organisation Gamhelp, assists people who are facing the disastrous consequences of their gambling problems and he takes a strict stance on the issue of children and gambling. He advises parents not to expose children to gambling, and not to make gambling (even with matchsticks) acceptable to children. He says: “The seeds can be planted at a very young age, and parents don’t really realise what they are

Cape Town’s

and losing mine and others’ hard-earned money makes me feel ill. I will teach her poker because it provides an entertaining springboard for discussions about the unavoidable choices of ordinary adult life, such as whether to invest in the stock market or the property market.

However, after talking to Raj and Rayda I would be more reticent to teach the game to other people’s children (although I did recently teach the game to our friends, the Steiners). Their teenage lad Luca (13) quickly picked up on the game and was soon happily beating us adults. (Beware the influence of this early win on your later risk behaviour, young Luca!) It seems that with the Steiners, as in my life, poker is a game that brings different generations together.

Is it fair to call matchstick poker “the devil’s game”?

While people who have been burnt by a gambling addiction may feel it’s an appropriate name, it seems that Reverend Robert Steiner is unlikely to agree, as I saw him saving the hierarchy of poker combinations onto his cellphone for later bonding sessions with his son Luca.

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

37

book extract

spice it up In her book, More than Samoosas, Nazeeha Abrahams injects her Cape Malay cooking with a little Durban spice.

kitke rolls

5 x 250ml (5 cups) cake flour 10ml (2t) salt 30g (3 sachets) instant dry yeast 15ml (1T) white sugar 5ml (1t) anise seeds 2 large potatoes, peeled 60ml (¼ cup) butter or margarine 125ml (½ cup) warm full cream milk 3 large eggs, beaten 1 large egg, beaten, to glaze tops of rolls Sesame and poppy seeds for sprinkling

makes 20

Serve with any meal or even just with preserves and cheese.

Sift the flour and salt into a large mixing bowl. Add the yeast, sugar and anise seeds. Stir to mix. Boil the potatoes in salted water until soft. Drain and mash in a separate bowl. Add the butter and mash until fine. Add 125ml (½ cup) of the warm milk and stir until smooth and creamy.

Make a well in the centre of the flour mixture and add the 3 eggs and the mashed potato.

Mix together to form a soft dough. Add more flour if the dough is too wet, or more warm milk if the dough is too dry.

Sprinkle the dough with flour, cover with a dishcloth and leave in a warm place to rise for an hour, or until it’s doubled in size. Preheat the oven to 180°C.

Knock down the dough and transfer to a floured surface. Divide into 20 equal portions and roll each portion into rounds. Place on a greased baking tray. Brush with the beaten egg and sprinkle half with sesame seeds and half with poppy seeds. Leave to stand for 15 minutes. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until golden.

Variation: These rolls can be plaited or knotted for a different effect.

38

December 2009/January 2010

Cape Town’s

dhaltjies (chilli bites) 375ml (1½ cups) pea/chana flour or chilli-bite mix 15ml (1T) cake flour 5ml (1t) baking powder 1 large onion, finely chopped or grated 1 large potato, coarsely grated 1 fresh green chilli, finely chopped 5ml (1t) salt 5ml (1t) turmeric 5ml (1t) ground jeera (cumin) 2,5ml (½t) crushed dried chillies 2,5ml (½t) red leaf masala 5ml (1t) garlic and ginger paste 60ml (¼ cup) chopped fresh dhania About 125ml (½ cup) cold water About 500ml (2 cups) cooking oil for deep-frying

makes about 30

Serve as a light anytime snack, or an accompaniment to soup.

In a large mixing bowl, sift flour and baking powder. Add the remaining ingredients, except the water and oil, and mix with just enough of the water to form a stiff batter. Use more water if necessary, but note that the batter should be able to hold its shape and not be runny.

Heat the oil in a small, deep pot or pan on medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1T of batter, one spoon at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pot and to allow space for turning the bites. Slowly fry on either side until golden brown and crisp. Monitor the temperature of the oil to ensure that it doesn’t become too hot while frying.

Pierce the chilli bite with a fork to test if properly cooked: if the fork comes out dry, then the chilli bites are ready. Remove from the oil and drain in a colander or on paper towel.

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

39

bobotie 1kg steak mince 5 slices stale bread, crusts removed 250ml (1 cup) water 45ml (3T) cooking oil 1 medium onion, chopped 10ml (2t) garlic paste 10ml (2t) salt 10ml (2t) curry powder 5ml (1t) turmeric 5ml (1t) red leaf masala 2,5ml (½t) mother-in-law masala 4 bay leaves 2,5ml (½t) ground cloves 2 large eggs 15ml (1T) lemon juice 40ml (8t) sugar 30ml (2T) butter or margarine

serves 6

This tasty dish is served with sweet yellow rice or mashed potato, and beetroot salad.

For the topping: 2 large eggs, lightly beaten 20ml (4t) full cream milk

Preheat the oven to 160°C. Wash and drain the mince and set aside.

Soak the bread in the water for 5 minutes, and then squeeze dry. Heat the oil in a large frying pan, add the onion and braise for 5 to 10 minutes until golden. Add the garlic paste, salt, curry powder, turmeric, red leaf masala, mother-in-law masala, bay leaves and ground cloves. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes. Place the drained mince into a mixing bowl along with the onion mixture, the eggs, lemon juice, bread, sugar and butter. Mix all of these ingredients thoroughly.

Spoon the mixture into a greased ovenproof dish and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven, mix the topping ingredients together and pour over the bobotie. Return to the oven for a further 5 to 10 minutes at 180°C, or until the topping is golden.

40

December 2009/January 2010

Cape Town’s

never – fail chocolate cake

serves 10–12

chocolate sponge: 4 large eggs 375ml (1½ cups) sugar 5ml (1t) vanilla essence 125ml (½ cup) cooking oil 125ml (½ cup) cocoa powder 250ml (1 cup) boiling water 500ml (2 cups) self-raising flour 5ml (1t) baking powder

Preheat the oven to 190 °C. Beat the eggs until light and frothy. Add the sugar and beat until thick and creamy.

Add the vanilla essence and oil and beat well. Mix the cocoa with the boiling water until smooth, and then cool. Once cooled, add the cocoa mixture to the egg mixture and mix well. Lastly, sift in the flour and baking powder and mix until smooth. Grease a rectangular baking tin (37cm x 27cm x 5cm deep) with butter, pour in the batter and spread evenly with a spatula. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cake edges start to pull away from the tin. Test with a skewer if uncertain; if the skewer comes out clean, the cake is done. Turn out onto a wire rack. Once cooled, transfer to a serving tray or dish before decorating. topping: 1 x 250g slab plain milk chocolate, melted 2 x 170g tins Nestlé dessert cream Whipped cream for piping (optional) Sliced strawberries for decorating

Mix the melted chocolate with the dessert cream until smooth and shiny. Once the cake has cooled completely, spread a thick layer of chocolate on the top and sides of the cake. If desired, pipe whipped cream rosettes along the edge of the cake and in the centre, and decorate with sliced strawberries.

This chocolate cake recipe is really very easy and won’t let you down.

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

41

butter biscuits 250g soft butter 250ml (1 cup) castor sugar 125ml (½ cup) cooking oil 5ml (1t) vanilla essence 625ml (2½ cups) cake flour

makes 24–30

These are my all-time favourite biscuits. They are rich in taste and light in texture.

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cream the butter and castor sugar together until thick and creamy. Add the cooking oil and mix well. Add the vanilla essence and mix. Lastly, add the cake flour, 250ml (1 cup) at a time, mixing well after each addition to form a soft dough. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 8mm thick. Cut out shapes with various cookie cutters. Place the biscuits on a large baking sheet and, if you like, top each biscuit with a small piece of red glacé cherry or a sprinkling of hundreds and thousands. Press lightly with the back of a teaspoon before baking, if using the hundreds and thousands. Bake in a preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until lightly golden.

Variation: To prepare half-moon biscuits, use the same recipe but add 125ml (½ cup) finely chopped cashew nuts before adding the flour. Divide the dough into 20 equal portions. Roll each portion into a 5cm-long sausage shape, curve and press the ends lightly, forming a croissant or half-moon shape. Bake in the same manner. Immediately after baking, while the biscuits are still hot, dip each biscuit into icing sugar and then place on a cooling rack.

More Than Samoosas by Nazeeha Abrahams is published by Human & Rousseau, an imprint of NB Publishers. Nazeeha’s culinary journey started when, as a newly-wed, she was feeling lost in her own kitchen. Her mother was called in to guide her. With new-found confidence she explored the Cape Malay heritage, blending it with the exotic aromas of Durban’s spice market – to the great delight of her family.

The result is a tempting collection of colourful dishes. Easy, yet never boring, there is something for every taste and every occasion.

More Than Samoosas is available from most book stores and can be ordered from online book stores. The recommended retail price is R210.

42

December 2009/January 2010

Cape Town’s

resource

hoorayfor holidays!

Staying home this December? Stay entertained with our 50-plus family-friendly outings. Compiled by LUCILLE KEMP.

Adventure Sports and Tours 4U

Butterfly World

Perfect for abseiling, rock climbing, mountain biking, surfing, sand boarding and hiking.

When? Call to enquire. Where? All over Cape Town. For more info: 021 696 3631, email info@adventure4u.co.za or visit adventure4u.co.za

A wonderland of butterflies flying free in all their kaleidoscopic majesty. When?

Monday–Sunday, 9am–5pm. Where? Drive 23km on the N1 towards Paarl; take the Klapmuts turnoff. Situated on the R44 in Klapmuts. For more info: 021 875 5628, email esther@yebo.co.za or visit butterflyworld.co.za

Aquila Safari Private Game Reserve Take the family on a game drive. This gem that has five out of the big five is close enough to Cape Town to make it the perfect day trip. When? Call to enquire. Where? 90 minutes drive from Cape Town. For more info: Aquila Reservations on 021 431 8400 or email res@aquilasafari.com

Cape Town Carriage Company

Artjamming

Cape Town Minstrel Carnival

Children are free to create the art of their imagination. When? Monday–Sunday, 9am–6pm.

Where? Wembley Square. For more info: 021 462 1168 or email info@artjamming.co.za

Experience a truly Capetonian New Year celebration. Minstrels parade through the city centre singing traditional songs and playing banjos. When? 2 January 2010, parade 11am. Where? Begins in District Six and makes its way through the city centre to Athlone Stadium. For more info: visit capetownminstrels.co.za

Baboon Matters

Baboon Matters

A two- to three-hour guided walk where you can watch the Chacma Baboons eat, play and socialise. Qualified guides ensure your safety. When? 9:30am and 2pm daily; 2–6 people. Where? 12 Glen Rd, Glencairn (between Fish Hoek and Simon’s Town). For more info: 021 782 2015, email baboonmatters@cybersmart.co.za or visit baboonmatters.org.za

Take your family on a 1½–2 hour trip through the city centre starting at the castle and ending at The Company’s Garden. When? 10:30am, 12:45pm and 2:45pm. Where? Meet at the Good Hope Castle. For more info: 082 575 5669 or email info@ctcco.co.za

Carols by Candlelight Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden When? 11–14 December, 8pm. Where? Rhodes Dr, Newlands. For more info: 021 761 2866

Noordhoek Farm Village When? 12 December, 6pm. Where? Cnr Chapmans Peak Rd and Village Lane. For more info: 021 789 2812

Bizzy Bodies Fun Factory While children play, why not get a work out on Bizzy Bodies’ power plates? When?

Monday–Saturday, 10am–5pm. Where? 23 Bell Cres, Westlake Business Park, Westlake.

For more info: 021 702 0505, email info@bizzybodies.co.za or visit bizzybodies.co.za

Boulders Beach Get a spot on the beach and watch the local penguins catch a wave or take to the boardwalk that leads you over the dunes and vegetation through the penguin colony. When? On a hot summer’s day. Where? Near Simon’s Town. For more info: visit go2africa.com

Bugz Kiddies Playpark From waterslides to horse riding, they truly have all the bases covered for your child’s entertainment. When? 9:30am–5pm daily. Where? 56 Tarentaal St, Joostenbergvlakte, Kraaifontein. For more info: 021 988 8836, email bugzparty@mwebbiz.co.za or visit bugzplaypark.co.za

Cheetah Outreach Experience the excitement of a personal encounter with a hand raised cheetah cub and don’t forget to take your camera. When? 10am–5pm daily. Where? Spier Wine Estate, Stellenbosch. For more info: 021 881 3242, email cheetah@intekom.co.za or visit cheetah.co.za

City Rock A premier indoor climbing gym and an excellent place for energetic children and adrenaline junkies. When? Monday–Thursday, 9am–9pm; Friday, 9am–6pm; Saturday, Sunday and holidays, 10am–6pm. Where? Cnr of Collingwood and Anson St, Observatory. For more info: 021 447 1326

Clay Café This is a studio that allows you and your children to express your creative side, spend quality time with friends and family and create a unique item for yourselves or for gifts.

Pottery painting is available seven days a week on a drop in basis. When? Monday– Sunday, 9am–4pm. Where? Hout Bay. For more info: 021 790 3318

Dig for exotic stones Scratch Patch and Mineral World When? Monday–Sunday, 9am–6pm. Where? Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront. For more info: 021 419 9429

Bugz Kiddies Playpark Cape Town’s

When? Monday–Friday, 8:30am–4:45pm; Saturday, Sunday and holidays, 9am–5:30pm. Where? Dido Valley, Simon’s Town. For more info: 021 786 2020 or visit gosiminstown.com

December 2009/January 2010

43

Downhill Adventures

Giraffe House Wildlife Awareness Centre

Choose from shark cage diving, tandem paragliding and quad biking. When? Monday– Friday, 8am–6pm; Saturday, 8:30am–1pm. Where? Shop 1, Overbeek Building, cnr Kloof, Long and Orange St, Cape Town. For more info: 021 422 0388

View giraffes along with ostriches, eland, crocodiles, buffalo and other wildlife.

When? Monday–Sunday, 9am–5pm. Where? On the corner of the R304 (towards Stellenbosch) and R101 (towards Paarl). For more info: 021 884 4506, 082 829 3276, email giraffehouse@gmail.com or visit giraffehouse.co.za

Dragon Boat Club Paddle around the waterfront. When? Monday–Thursday, 5:30pm. Where: V&A Waterfront.

Meet at the Marina Basin at the slipway in front of the Marina Office (at the east end of the Cape Grace). For more info: 021 447 2820 or 082 564 6257

Drakenstein Lion Park Observe rescued lions up close. When? 9:30am–5pm daily. Where? Paarl. For more info: 021 863 3290, email info@lionrescue.org.za or visit lionrescue.org.za

Eagle Encounters This bird of prey centre has four interactive shows along with personal encounters, private viewings, children’s playground and parties. When? 9am–5pm daily. Where?

Spier, Stellenbosch. For more info: 021 858 1826, email eagles@telkomsa.net or visit eagle-encounters.co.za

Fish Eagle Creek Golf Course A private nine-hole golf course perfectly suited for children, beginners and for those who would like to have a fun day out in the countryside with the family. When? Monday– Sunday, 8am–5pm. Where? Winery Road between Somerset West and Stellenbosch. For more info: 084 359 4544 or visit fisheaglecreekgolf.co.za

Gary’s Surf School Let them learn how to surf. When? Monday–Sunday. Lessons are held at 9am, 11am and 2pm. Where? 34 Beach Rd, Muizenberg. For more info: 021 788 9839 or 083 324 5110, email gary@garysurf.co.za or visit garysurf.com

44

December 2009/January 2010

Go-Karting Kenilworth Karting The junior track is available on weekends, public holidays and during school holidays.

When? Monday–Thursday, 1pm–11pm; Friday, 11am–11pm; Saturday and Sunday, 10am–11pm. Where? 10 Myhof Rd, Kenilworth. For more info: 021 683 2670

Magic Castle Karting School holidays mean extended hours. When? Monday–Friday, 11am–11pm; Saturday and Sunday, 10am–midnight. Where? Goodwood. For more info: 021 534 0244

Gold of Africa Museum The striking museum complex literally is filled with gold. The workshop is well worth a visit where innovative gold designs are worked on using the museum collection as inspiration. When?

Monday–Saturday, 9:30am–5pm.

Where? Martin Melck House, 96 Strand St, De Waterkant. For more info: 021 405 1540 or visit goldofafrica.com

Gold of Africa Museum

Cape Town’s

SPUR

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

45

Honey Bee Foundation

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Learn about bees and honey. Your family gets a look into the world of beekeeping.

Children learn about bees, pollen and how honey is made. View the workings of a beehive and try on a real beekeeper’s protective gear. When? Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm; Saturday 8am–noon. Where? Cnr Milner and Parow Rd, Maitland. For more info: 021 987 0667, email honeybee@global.co.za or visit beekeeping.com/honeybee-africa

It’s a great run around for the children while you chill on a picnic blanket, fill up on fancy finger food and explore the world-renowned beauty and diversity of Cape plant life.

When? 8am–7pm daily. Where? Rhodes Dr, Newlands. For more info: 021 799 8783

Ice station Have fun with the whole family as you glide, slip and slide at the ice rink. When? Monday– Sunday, various times. Where? GrandWest, Vanguard Dr, Goodwood. For more info: 021 535 2260 or visit icerink.co.za

Imhoff Farm

Imhoff Farm

You can feed the farm animals; spy a snake at the Snake Park; play a round of paintball, get your face painted and go on a horse or camel ride. Not a place that you can tire of quickly. When? Monday–Sunday, 9am–5pm. Where? Kommetjie.

For more info: 021 783 4545 or email info@imhofffarm.co.za

Klondyke Cherry Farm Pick your own, eat as much as you like on the premises and pay by weight when you leave. You may spend the day there, picnicking or braaing in the shade of the pine trees.

When? From the last week of November until the end of December, 8:30am–4:30pm daily.

Where? Travel along the R43 to Ceres. Drive straight through Ceres and, after 12km, turn right onto the Bo-Swaarmoed Pass Road. Travel a further 18km until you come to Klondyke Cherry Farm on the right hand side. For more info: 023 312 1521

Le Bonheur Crocodile Farm

Le Bonheur Crocodile Farm

Go on a guided tour across open dams via ramps and catch a glimpse of a croc. You may be able to hold a baby croc and witness the feeding of the bigger crocs. When?

9am–5pm daily. Where? Babylonstoren Rd, R45, Simondium. For more info: 021 863 1142 or visit lebonheurcrocfarm.com

Lil Dreys Jimmy Jungles This indoor adventure playground offers supervised, secure facilities for children from six months. When? Monday–Sunday, from 9am. Where? Tygervalley, Claremont or Somerset West. For more info: 021 914 1705, email info@jimmyjungles.co.za or visit jimmyjungles.co.za

Provides workshops for children of all ages, across an eclectic range of arts and crafts and aims to provide an environment where children can let their imagination roam free while learning new skills. When? Monday–Friday, 9:30am–5pm; Saturday, 10am– 4pm. Where? 140 Waterkant St, Green Point. For more info: 021 418 4414, email imagination@lildreys.com or visit lildreys.com

Jolly Roger Pirate Boat

Little Cook’s Club

Set sail with your fearless crew on a calm, sunny day. When? 10am–6pm daily. Where?

Quay 5, V&A Waterfront. For more info: Phirial 021 421 0909 or Esa 082 373 1741

Introduces children between the ages of 18 months and 6 years to the basic principles of cooking and nutrition. The main aim of this is to encourage an awareness of healthy

46

December 2009/January 2010

Cape Town’s

eating by having fun. When? Varies. Where? Tableview and Southern Suburbs. For more info: Southern Suburbs, Nicky Pyle: 082 877 3361 or email nickyp@littlecooksclub.co.za.

Tableview: Katherine Megaw: 083 659 5446 or email katherinem@littlecooksclub.co.za or visit littlecooks.co.za

bodies. When? Sunday–Thursday, 9am–6pm; Friday and Saturday, 9am–9pm. Where?

Canal Walk, Century City. For more info: 021 529 8100, email info@mtnsciencentre.org.za or visit mtnsciencecentre.org.za

Muizenberg waterslides Monkey Town Primate Centre Home to over 220 monkeys from around the globe. Guided tours are on offer and there’s a petting zoo, play park and restaurant. When? Monday–Sunday, 9am–5pm. Where?

Mondeor Rd, off the N2 outside Somerset West. For more info: 021 858 1060

Spend a hot summer’s day in the water. The pavilion has pools, a super tube and a puttputt course alongside it. When? 9:30am–5:30pm daily. Where? Muizenberg sea front and pavilion, Beach Rd. For more info: Muizenberg Tourism Office 021 787 9140 or email muizenberg@capetown.travel

Oude Molen (Play Shed) A brand new children’s indoor play centre is opening in Oude Molen Eco Village with a baby area, play and birthday party space, paint and craft classes. When? 9am–5pm.

Where? Oude Molen Eco Village, Alexander Rd, Pinelands. For more info: 074 196 3778 or email madre@iafrica.com

Out There Kids/Juni-AR Off-road adventure races comprising mostly mountain biking, trail running and a water leg – tubing and/or non-technical kloofing. When and where? Depends on event. For more info: 072 853 5802 or email info@juniar.co.za

Paintball Africa Monkey Town Primate Centre

Mooiberge Strawberry Farm When you arrive at the farm, collect your basket and start your picking. You may spend as much time as you like picking strawberries and you are charged per kilogram. When?

Starts in November, Saturday and Sunday 10am–4:30pm. Where? Off the R44 towards Stellenbosch. For more info: 021 881 3222

MTN Sciencentre With over 300 interactive displays, this is the perfect place for curious minds and active

Cape Town’s

An action packed day for the tough tots, moms and dads. The paint fill is non-toxic, noncaustic, water soluble and biodegradable. It rinses out of clothing and off skin with mild soap and water. When? Tuesday–Friday, 9:30am–5:30pm; Saturday, 9:30am–12:30pm.

Where? Unit 2B, 15 Montague Dr, Montague Gardens. For more info: 021 551 3115

Place of Play Make use of the nail bar and shiatsu massage studio while your children work on the spider climber and ride the wacky trike. When? Monday–Sunday, 9am–9pm. Where?

Shop 43, Canal Walk Shopping Mall, Century City, Cape Town. For more info: Marisa 021 555 0303, email marisa@placeofplay.co.za or visit placeofplay.co.za

December 2009/January 2010

47

Topless Tours

Planetarium, Iziko Museum Be transported through the wonders of the universe. When? 10am–5pm daily. Where? At the top of The Company’s Garden, Queen Victoria Rd, Gardens. For more info: 021 481 3800 or email info@iziko.org.za

Planet Kids An eco-friendly, inclusive indoor play and activity centre that offers craft workshops.

When? Monday–Sunday, 10am–6pm. Where? 3 Wherry Road, Muizenberg. For more info: 021 788 3070 or email andy@planetkids.co.za

Plinka Plonka Play An indoor play centre that includes roller coaster cars, a ball pool, two big slides, climbing wall, fantasy dress up castle, life-size doll house and shipwreck sandpit. When? Monday– Friday, 9am–5:30pm; Saturday–Sunday, 9am–1pm. Where? 171 Buitenkant St, Gardens, Cape Town. For more info: 021 465 0503 or email plinkaplonkaplay@gmail.com

Ratanga Junction Take a ride on the wild side with 23 rides ideal for the children, parents and the daring. A ride that never goes out of style with families is Monkey Falls. When? Friday, 4 December to Tuesday, 12 January 2010 (closed Christmas Day), 10am–5pm daily. Where? Canal Walk, Century City. For more info: 0861 200 300, email info@ratanga.co.za or visit ratanga.co.za

Ridgway Ramblers Suitable for the whole family, this is a great way to discover Cape Town’s dramatic landscape through day walks up Table Mountain. When? Varies. Where? Call to enquire as it depends on the route. For more info: 082 522 6056, email binnyridgway@gmail.com or visit ridgwayramblers.co.za

Rooilandia Adventure Guest Farm You can enjoy a day of fishing, hiking, canoeing, biking, exploring and bird watching among other activities. When? Call to enquire. Where? Rooilandia, Worcester. For more info: 082 308 8822

Silly Billy’s Fun World An indoor play centre where children go crazy and parents go lazy. The fun world is complete with jumping castles, jungle gyms, dress-up facilities and funny mirrors. When?

Monday–Saturday, 9am–6pm; Sunday, 9am–1pm. Where? Glengarry Village, cnr De Bron and Fairtrees Rd, Eversdal. For more info: 021 981 1656, 083 233 9662, or email sillybillyfun@gmail.com

Silvermine Nature Reserve For nature trails, hikes, magnificent views and clear mountain streams. Mountain bikes and dogs are allowed. When? 7am–7pm daily. Where? The park straddles the mountain, from the winding Ou Kaapse Weg on the Tokai, Constantia and Westlake side, over the peak, and into Noordhoek, Sun Valley and Fish Hoek, overlooking the ocean. For more info: visit tmnp.co.za

South African Natural History Museum Collections range from fossils and insects to fish found as recently as a week ago. There are Stone Age tools, over 120 000 years old, side by side with displays of traditional clothes from last century. When? 10am–5pm daily. Where? Top of The Company’s Garden. For more info: 021 481 3800

St James Beach Go for breakfast on this child-friendly beach. It is difficult to choose a café without a sea view. The multi-coloured beach huts are a novelty for your children, the tidal pools are a delight and charming Kalk Bay is a stone’s throw away. When? Check opening times of restaurants. Where? False Bay coastline, between Muizenberg and Kalk Bay.

Sumos Play Park ‘Big fun’ that rescues your child from plant shopping with you in the surrounding nursery.

When? Tuesday–Friday, 10am–5pm; Saturday and Sunday, 9:30am–5pm. Where?

Super Plants Nursery, 1 Link Rd, Bothasig. For more info: 082 562 2640 or email nerisa@sumosplaypark.co.za

48

December 2009/January 2010

Cape Town’s

SunScene Outdoor Adventures This is a young, dynamic tour operator specialising in adventure and activity based tourism in Southern Africa – get the family living on the edge. When? Monday–Friday, 10am–5pm.

Where? 7 Rubbi Rd, Kommetjie. For more info: call 021 783 0203, 084 352 4925 or after hours 083 517 9383, email info@sunscene.co.za or visit sunscene.co.za

Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Go by cable car up Table Mountain. There is a great children’s area and restaurant.

Remember that on your birthday, you go free – just take your ID book. When? First car up 8am, last car up 8:30pm daily. Where? Access the cableway entrance via Kloof Nek Rd. For more info: 021 424 8181 or visit tablemountain.net

Tenpin bowling Let’s Go Bowling When? Monday–Sunday, 9am–midnight. Where? Stadium-on-Main, Claremont. For more info: 021 671 1893 When? Monday–Friday, 9am–7pm; Saturday, Sunday and public holidays, 9am–5pm.

Where? N1 City. For more info: 021 595 2100

Top-G Game Systems A laser shooting range, laser clay target shooting, laser combat games, paintball and day camps for children including a combination of activities. When? By appointment. Where?

2 Dennehoek St, Heldervue, near Somerset West. For more info: 083 666 6113

Topless Tours Be a tourist in your own town and hop on, hop off the City Sightseeing Cape Town bus, complete with special commentary for the children. Ask about their Kids’ Club specials.

When? Monday–Sunday, 9am–5pm. Where? Atlantic Seaboard, City Bowl and Southern Suburbs. For more info: 021 511 6000 or visit citysightseeing.co.za

Toy museums Muizenberg Toy Museum A fascinating collection of early toys dating from the turn of the last century. The museum has a shop specialising in obsolete and current toys and models – a must for any collector. When? Tuesday–Sunday, 10am–4pm. Where? Beach Rd, Muizenberg.

For more info: 021 788 1569

Warrior Toy Museum Model cars, dolls and teddy bears, miniature doll houses, two fully operational railroads and lead soldier displays. When? 10am–4pm daily. Where? Simon’s Town.

For more info: 021 786 1395

Two Oceans Aquarium Discover the exquisite marine life found in the Indian and Atlantic Ocean. Visit their website to find out more about the various feeding times of the penguins and predators. When?

Monday–Sunday, 9:30am–6pm. Where? V&A Waterfront. For more info: 021 418 3823, email aquarium@aquarium.co.za or visit aquarium.co.za

Tygerberg Zoo See spider monkeys, Cape lions, tigers and bears. When? 9am–5pm daily. Where? Exit 39 off the N1, Klipheuwel (near Stellenbosch), Paarl. For more info: 021 884 4494

World of Birds The largest bird park in Africa. Take a stroll through the Monkey Jungle and make friends with the inquisitive little Squirrel Monkeys. When? Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm. Where?

Valley Rd, Hout Bay. For more info: 021 790 2730 or email info@worldofbirds.org.za

free for all 1. Visit Blouberg Beach for the best views of Table Mountain and Robben Island (that’s where most of the postcard pics of Table Mountain are taken from).

2. Signal Hill is home of the Noon Gun and great for sundowner picnics.

3. Hermanus is the best spot for whale watching.

4. Ride a bike on the mountain side of Tokai Forest.

5. Explore the rock pools at Dalebrook Beach on the False Bay coastline.

6. Take a walk or jog along the Sea Point Promenade with your baby in a jogger.

7. On a rainy day, get everyone to decorate their own Christmas stockings.

8. Go rollerblading at Mouille Point. The recently erected wooden jungle gyms are a hit.

9. Walk the Cecilia Contour Path in Constantia Nek.

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

49

50

December 2009/January 2010

Cape Town’s

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

51

books

the good book guide for toddlers pick of the month

God’s Dream

By Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Douglas Carlton Abrams (Jacana Media, R112) In warm and simple words, Nobel Peace Prize winner Desmond Tutu reaches out to children everywhere with his inspiring message of love and forgiveness. Tutu explains “that God’s Dream is a place where laughter, love, and peace reign and where we realize that we are all members of one family – God’s family”. It’s a wish that everyone will see they are brothers and sisters, no matter their way of speaking to God, no matter the size of their nose or the shade of their skin. With vibrant illustrations by LeUyen Pham, this truly South African gem will make a lovely gift for any child.

Buggy Buddies

By Emily Bolam (Campbell Books, R70) Buggy Buddies celebrated its 10-year anniversary last year, and to mark this special occasion, Campbell Books has released updated versions of two of the very first Buggy Buddies ever published. Children will love to chase along with Puppy as he scampers after his bouncing ball.

With new, updated covers and bold, bright illustrations by popular author Emily Bolam, these books are sure to entertain and delight a whole new generation of young readers. The other collector’s item is called Kitty.

The Rabbit Problem

By Emily Gravett (Macmillan Children’s Books, R155) Hop along to Fibonacci’s Field and follow Lonely and Chalk Rabbit as they try to cope with their fast-expanding brood and handle a different seasonal challenge each month, from the cold of February to the wet of April and the heat of July. This extraordinary picture book is packed with gorgeous details and novelty elements, including a baby rabbit record book, a carrot recipe book and a surprise pop-up ending. Gravett’s first book, Wolves, won the Macmillan Prize in 2004 and the Kate Greenaway medal in 2006. Two years later she won the Greenaway again with Little Mouse’s Big Book of Fears.

Wipe Clean: Funtime Colours

By Caroline Jayne Church (Campbell Books, R90) Children can use the big, bright chalks to learn about colours and create brilliant pictures on the magical drawon, wipe-off pages of this fun-filled book. They can let their imaginations run wild, wipe the pages clean and start over again – perfect for budding artists. The book teaches children from one year and older about first concepts. It also encourages hand-eye coordination and stimulates creative development. Also available in this series is Playtime Numbers. Caroline Jayne Church is an awardwinning illustrator. Her book Hungry Hen ranked as one of the top-five bestselling books in the UK in 2002.

Hanukkah Lights and Christmas Tree

By David Martin (Walker Books, R88 each) Beautiful illustrations and easy-to-understand language bring the holidays to life for the youngest of children. At Christmas time, a tree from the outside comes inside, just waiting to be decorated. And some of the tree’s ornaments are inspired by outdoor things, too – a snowflake, a ball, a bird, and a star. At Hanukkah, there are many much anticipated rituals — latkes to eat, dreidels to spin, presents to give and receive, and shiny gold treats. Add some fun, singing and dancing for a warm, truly childfriendly celebration.

52

December 2009/January 2010

My Grandma is a Star

By Carl Norac (Macmillan Children’s Books, R140) This little boy loves his grandma for all the wonderful things she can do. To him she seems to be a superbendy gymnast, a rocket-ship pilot, a secret agent and a clown. But most of all he loves her because she’s his very own grandma. The latest addition to this charming and popular series, featuring a characterful grandma for the 21st century, is a tender book with warm and humorous illustrations that will make a perfect gift for any grandmother or grandchild.

Cape Town’s

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

53

books continued... for early graders Horrid Henry’s House of Horrors

By Francesca Simon (Orion Children’s Books, R120) The fifth fabulous Horrid Henry collection contains 10 of the best previously published stories with new colour pictures, illustrated by Tony Ross, and lots of brilliant extras, including Henry’s secret language, the photos his family don’t want you to see, and family secrets they don’t want anyone to know. This collector’s book includes popular Horrid Henry stories, such as Horrid Henry’s Car Journey, Horrid Henry Runs Away, Horrid Henry’s Christmas Presents and Horrid Henry’s Hobby. This is a great gift for all the Horrid Henry fans out there.

I Spy a (not so) White Lie

By Karen McCombie (Macmillan Children’s Books, R84) Upbeat, funny and quirky, I Spy is the ninth book in this very popular series by British children’s author Karen McCombie. Your child will love 10-year-old Indie Kidd who, in this edition, wonders just how bad a little white lie can be. When Indie is caught telling her mother a fib, she is grounded. But when a new girl April starts telling tall tales, it’s not April who suffers but Indie. Children will learn how a small lie can get you into hot water, as Indie Kidd finds out that it’s always better to tell the truth.

Doodle on! Holiday Doodles

By Smriti Prasadam-Halls (Macmillan Children’s Books, R150) This is the perfect gift for the holidays. From drawing who’s on the tour bus, to deciding what’s on the braai, this book is packed with lots of holiday doodles – all that is needed are pencils or crayons. Children can create their own movie poster, design a board game, make a tourist map or create their own paintings – just get the pencils ready and let their imaginations run wild. There are over 150 activity pages, bound in a sturdy, colourful cover with so many doodles to do, children will be kept busy for hours.

for pre-teens and teens The Pocket Guide To Girl Stuff & The Pocket Guide To Boy Stuff

By Bart King (Gibbs Smith, R88) Sometimes girls just need a little guidance and know-how. They’ll get that and more with this guide. Acclaimed author Bart King delves into the secret world of girls, with the help of his five sisters and 50 other young ladies. Fashion, friends and fun stuff – everything is covered in this volume that’s petite enough to fit in any girl’s purse. In The Pocket Guide To Boy Stuff, King introduces boys to all the important things they need to know but adults don’t want to tell them. From cool experiments and essential gadgets to flying things and gross stuff.

54

December 2009/January 2010

Cape Town’s

The Pain and the Great One: Friend or fiend? & Cool Zone

By Judy Blume

Just about Us & Fast and Fabulous Room Makeovers

By T. Bugbird

(Macmillan Children’s Books, R120 & R79) Following the success of Soupy Saturdays and Going, Going, Gone!, the next two books in this funny series about sibling rivalry continues to entertain young children.

Eight-year-old Abigail (“The Great One”) and her six-year-old brother, Jake (“The Pain”) state their cases about each other and who is best-loved by their parents, often with hilarious results and a little life lesson thrown in. In these warm and funny stories, Judy Blume brilliantly captures just what it’s like to have, or to be, a brother or sister. The chapter books are beautifully illustrated by Kate Pankhurst.

(Make Believe Ideas, R95 each) Just about Us is for younger girls and their friends and what they like to do. Inside there are ideas for things to make and do, games to play and pages to fill in with all the important ‘stuff’ girls love so much to keep as memories. In Room Makeovers your daughter will find inspiration to decorate her own room – from making hangers and picture frames to style tips and ideas for a complete room makeover. A quiz at the start of the book will help you decide what kind of room you want. In both books there are over 50 stickers to help with designs as well as scrapbook space.

Eric in It’s a Piece of Cake

By Lulu and Tee

win!

(Linda Fellows, R65) This is the true story of Eric the Baboon, the alpha male of the Slangkop troop on the Cape Peninsula. Eric is a living legend in the Kommetjie area. He and his troop are renowned for raiding homes and shops for food and his favourite is carrot cake, which he nicks on a fairly regular basis from the local coffee shop.

One day after injuring himself, Eric was rescued and taken to the local vet. While his wounds were healing, he refused to eat. Everyone thought this was the end of the road for Eric. Read to find out if Eric gets back to his troop. By buying this magical, fun, educational and truly South African book, you will help to save the Chacma baboons. Cape Town’s Child is giving away a set of books to five readers. The set includes Eric in It’s a Piece of Cake and Peter, Pamela and Percy in the Big Spill. To enter, email your details to win@childmag.co.za with ‘Eric win’ in the subject line, or post your entry to Eric Win, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010 before 31 January 2010. Only one entry per reader.

Missing, Believed Crazy

By Terence Blacker (Macmillan Children’s Books, R155) Five children at an exclusive private school hatch a daring plan to fake a kidnap and raise money for charity. There’s brainy scholarship boy, Wiki, super-glam Jade, too-cool-for-school Mark, everyone’s best friend Holly – and then there’s Trix. It was her brilliant idea in the first place. A kidnapping, a rural hideaway, loads of money… and all for the very best of motives: helping children in need. What could possibly go wrong?

The story is a bit like Robin Hood, only more illegal and with round-the-clock coverage by the world’s media. Five children in a fake kidnapping scam can only make for hilarious and thrilling reading.

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

55

more books... for pre-teens and teens

Deeper

By Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams (The Chicken House, R116) The series features 14-year-old Will Burrows, whose life is turned upside-down when his father goes missing suddenly. With the help of his friend Chester, Will discovers a tunnel under his house, which brings him into contact with a hidden city called the Colony, and the terrifying and brutal race of people who rule it. These people are called the Styx, and they want to take control of the surface.

In the sequel to the underground bestseller Tunnels, Will Burrows’s adventure is far from over. In his quest to find his father, Will is plunged even deeper underground. The third book in the series, Freefall is already available in the UK.

Airhead: Being Nikki

By Meg Cabot

Read Me At School Gaby Morgan

(Macmillan Children’s Books, R150) This is the follow-up to the very popular Airhead, where tomboy Em Watts takes over teen supermodel Nikki Howard’s body after a freak accident. It’s not easy for poor Em, or Nikki as everyone else now refers to her. Especially when Nikki’s past is about to catch up with her. Her boss is spying on her and Em’s heart wants one thing but her lips keep kissing someone else. Em now has to learn to walk down a catwalk in only teenytiny underwear and very high heels. This is a funny, crazy, super-glamorous thriller from the author of The Princess Diaries.

(Macmillan Children’s Books, R120) This book contains a poem for each day of the year, as chosen by Gaby Morgan, from the very best modern and classic poets.

There are poems about teachers, school pets, school trips, best friends, playtime, school plays, school meals, visiting authors, sports day, school ghosts, uniforms, the start of term, the end of term and even school holidays. Poets included are Paul Cookson, Roger Stevens, Brian Moses, Michael Rosen, Roger McGough and many more. This is the perfect gift for a teenager who loves poetry.

Open Me Up – Everything you need to know about the human body Senior Editor Julie Ferris (Penguin Group, R240) This stunning book will even have nonscience fans begging to read more.

This title provides everything your child needs to know about the human body.

Show your child how all the bony, bloody and squelchy goings on inside their bodies make it work. They’ll learn about everything; from human cells and senses to brain structure and body systems. Quirky twists and concepts tick the side-splitting box – where else are they going to find the digestive system modelled out of balloons or a cartoon strip telling the story of the discovery of penicillin? This title offers a gutsy, cheeky and handy look at the human body.

56

December 2009/January 2010

Cape Town’s

for us

The Girl Who Played With Fire & The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet’s Nest

By Stieg Larsson (MacLehose Press, R185 & R123) These two books, in addition to their predecessor, The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, are part of the Millennium trilogy. Stieg Larsson died shortly after delivering the trilogy to his publisher and he did not live to enjoy the phenomenon that his work has become. Larsson’s main character in these books is the sassy Lisbeth Salander who has been called the most original heroine to emerge in crime fiction for years. The Girl Who Played With Fire has been described as even better than the first, and the third and final book in the trilogy is the culmination of one of the most mesmerizing fictional achievements of our time.

The Horse Boy

By Rupert Isaacson (Penguin Group, R210) When his son Rowan is diagnosed with autism, Rupert Isaacson is devastated; afraid he might never be able to communicate with his child. But when Isaacson, a lifelong horseman, rides his neighbour’s horse with his son, Rowan improves immeasurably. He is then struck with a crazy idea: why not take Rowan to Mongolia, the one place in the world where horses and shamanic healing intersect? It seems like the trip is doomed from the start, but things begin to happen to Rowan as his language and behaviour slowly start to improve. He also has a magical connection with horses. This is a deeply moving, truly oneof-a-kind story of a family willing to go to the ends of the earth to help their son.

Clean Breaks: 500 New Ways To See The World (Penguin Group, R320) Here are 500 fantastic experiences that will inspire you to see the world in a new light. It contains unusual holidays and alternative ways to travel that make a real difference to the lives of local people and the planet. Unique accommodation options are listed, such as mud huts and treehouses in Jamaica. There are details of amazing wildlife tours, such as tracking wolves and bears in Poland, as well as an array of climate-friendly travel options and adventurous experiences, such as living among the Bedouins and kayaking around the Scottish Isles. If you do only one thing mentioned in his book, you’ll be the richer for it.

1000 CEOs

By Andrew Davidson (Penguin Group, R380) When it comes to being the best, it pays to learn from the best. 1000 CEOs is incisive and insightful and an opportunity to meet the people who do the business. Draw on the vision and leadership of iconic CEOs who inspire the world’s top-performing teams. Find out how maverick executives make innovation happen and discover the strategies topcompany CEOs use to deliver high-performance results every time. This book is a must on the bookshelf of anyone who is serious about business.

Gatherings: A Year of Invitations

By Nataniël

featured book

(Human & Rousseau, R248) With his fourth cookbook, singer, entertainer, author and entrepreneur Nataniël pays tribute to the joys of home cooking and entertaining. Gatherings documents a year of special events, from birthday parties, romantic dinners for two, midweek feasts and impromptu meals to Christmas and Easter celebrations, a picnic and stork tea. Nataniël shares his all-time favourite dishes and includes recipes for light in-between snacks.

Beautifully photographed by Clinton Lubbe, Gatherings will become your year-long kitchen companion.

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

57

electronic reviews

gizmos & gadgets Monopoly Electronic Banking South African Edition

Nintendo Wii Sports Resort

(Prima Toys, R559,99) Wheel and deal your way to a fortune using debit cards instead of cash. All it takes is a card swipe for money to change hands. You can collect rent, buy properties and pay fines with the touch of a button. It’s a new way to play the family classic that’s been brought up to date with higher property values and locations based on your favourite landmarks (Table Mountain, Cango Caves, Sun City Resort, Mac Mac Falls and Nelson Mandela Bridge), as well as brand new Community Chest and Chance cards.

(Nintendo, R699) This summer bring an entire island along with 12 super-realistic sports into your living room.

The new Wii Sports Resort comes with a new Wii MotionPlus accessory, which plugs into your existing Wii Remote, giving players an even more immersive, realistic gaming experience.

Every sport featured in Wii Sports Resort responds with unprecedented accuracy to the exact angle of your arm. Try out power cruising, wakeboarding, canoeing, air sports action and plenty more. Get ready to have the sports holiday of your life, without leaving your home.

Wii: Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter (Ster Kinekor, R449) Experience an all-new Drawn to Life adventure in the first Wii game that lets you draw your own hero. You play as your hero and use the Wii remote to draw over 100 customisable weapons, tools, vehicles and wings designed to help you stop an evil thief before it’s too late. You can explore your artistic freedom with robust drawing tools that provide you with many template colours, brush types, guides and stamps.

Leapfrog Tag Junior (Prima Toys, R499,99) Using the same amazing touch technology as the Tag Reading System, Tag Junior is designed to encourage toddlers’ natural desire to explore, while introducing preschool skills through playful book-based activities. Each Tag Junior board introduces a different preschool skill such as the alphabet, counting or social play. Open-ended questions and fun sound effects encourage your child to take charge as they touch any part of any page to bring words, pictures and activities to life. You can also connect the book pal to the online LeapFrog Learning Path to see your child’s progress and get printable activities to expand their learning.

Marvel Super Hero Squad (Ster Kinekor, R449)

The Kids Are All Right

Assemble your squad and fight your

(Just Fun Toys, R499,95) This electronic board game with lights and sounds is based on the hit BBC show. It’s a show that pits adults against children in a thrilling battle of wits. Adults compete to win cash prizes but there are super-children aged nine to 15, who are determined to see the adults go home with nothing. Over a course of five brain-busting rounds, your intellect will be stretched to the limits as you try to beat the children for the cash. The tense, high-jeopardy final game is the ultimate decider.

way to victory to save the citizens of Super Hero City from the evil schemes of Dr Doom and the Lethal Legion in this multi-player adventure game inspired by the action-packed animated Marvel series, Super Hero Squad. Fight through campaigns full of adventure or wage an all-out battle in the streets of dynamic environments, as you mix and match superheroes and villains with their own unique powers and abilities.

Audio Books The Reluctant Dragon read by Anton Lesser, I Live in a Mad House by Kaye Umansky, The Aardvark Who Wasn’t Sure read by Maureen Lipman and Ballet Shoes starring Rosemary Leach (BBC Audio, R132,95; R189,95; R132,95 and R209,95) The Reluctant Dragon is the much loved tale by Kenneth Grahame about a dragon who doesn’t want to fight and the boy who becomes his friend. When the villagers discover the existence of the dragon, they send St George to slaughter the beast. What the villagers don’t know is that this dragon is friendly, polite, composes poetry and purrs when he’s happy.

This is a charming, humorous story from the acclaimed author of The Wind in the Willows.

Kaye Umansky, who also brought us the bestselling Pongwiffy, tells the hilarious story I Live in a Mad House. Tim spends half-term cleaning cars, while screaming toddlers take over his home. Luckily, Flora is on hand to help out and share a joke with. Things are looking up, until they encounter a very angry customer and a very wet Rottweiler.

58

December 2009/January 2010

Ladies of Letters star Maureen Lipman reads the classic children’s story The Aardvark Who Wasn’t Sure. This heartwarming story from bestselling author Jill Tomlinson is ideal for young listeners, who can identify with baby animals and their attempts to find out who they are.

Rosemary Leach stars in the BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramatisation of Noel Streatfeild’s children’s classic, Ballet Shoes. When Sylvia and her old nurse Nana agree to keep house for Great Uncle Matthew (or Gum), they know they’ll be looking after his fossil collection while he is away. Imagine their surprise when Gum brings them three babies to take care of. This is an enchanting dramatisation of this novel.

These audio books are available from all leading bookstores as well as The Listeners’ Library.

Cape Town’s

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

59

calendar

what’s on in dec/jan The 5th Annual World AIDS Day gala concert This year’s World AIDS Day celebration is presented by the Africa Institute for HIV/AIDS Management at the University of Stellenbosch. This pop and classical concert features an orchestra with guest vocalists including Jimmie Earl Perry, Ladysmith Black Mambazo and the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra. Dress code is formal with a touch of red. Time: 7:30pm– 9pm. Venue: Artscape Theatre. Cost: R100.

For more info: 021 410 9800 Rural Cape music supper concerts Celebrate the arrival of sunny days and long, balmy evenings at Solms-Delta’s unique Saturday Sunset Supper Concerts.

Enjoy a leisurely supper outside Fyndraai Restaurant and listen to the special music of the rural Cape. Ends 27 February 2010.

Time: every Saturday, 6pm–8:30pm. Venue: Solms-Delta Wine Estate, Franschhoek. Cost: adults R150, children R65 including food.

For more info: 021 874 3937 or visit solms-delta.co.za Mosaic beginner’s workshop for moms Become creative and learn the basics of mosaic. Call to enquire about the other workshops for all ages throughout December and January. Time: 7pm–9pm.

Venue: Freshly Crafted, Oakhurst Farmpark, Hout Bay. Cost: R125 including all material (set of coasters). Contact: 021 790 7900 or email freshlycrafted@mweb.co.za Charity carols by candlelight Bring your picnic basket and enjoy the evening.

Also 3 December, Rosmead Ave, Wynberg and 10 December, Vereeniging Circle, Retreat West. Time: 6pm. Venue: opposite Shoprite in Durbanville. Cost: donate a toy for the children of Ruyterwacht and Bloekombos. Contact Community Learning Centre: 021 535 0997

2 wednesday Full moon Take the family as far as they can go up and around Cape Town’s special lookout point of Lion’s Head for this spectacle.

Moonrise: 8:16pm and moonset: 5:08am Paarl full moon picnic Bask in the moonlight in the monument’s garden.

Bring your own picnic basket or choose picnic foods off the menu at Volksmond, their new restaurant. No dogs and fires are allowed. Bring a torch. Time: 5pm– 10pm. Venue: Taalmonument, Paarl. Cost: adults R12, students R5 and children

60

December 2009/January 2010

Santa’s Elves at BUILD-A-BEAR WORKSHOP® December will see Build-A-Bear Workshop® stores around the country transform into Santa’s Workshop over the festive season. Santa’s elves have been given special pawmission to take over Build-A-Bear Workshop® and to provide you and your children with a beary special experience. Build-A-Bear Workshop® is an exciting experience store where you and your little one have the opportunity to make your very own, personalised teddy bear. The Build-A-Bear Workshop® will be filled with loads to do. Choose your new furry friend, stuff it with love, add its very own heart and create its unique personality from the hundreds of outfits and accessories available. A new feature to Build-A-Bear Workshop® is the Bear Registry where you can create your own special wishlist. Ends 5 January. Cost: make a bear for R50 or spend R350 on your bear and make a bear free of charge for a child in need of a big bear hug. Venue: all Build-A-Bear Workshop® stores. Contact: 08611BEARS (23277) or visit buildabear.co.za. You can also have online fun at buildabearville.com

2 December – Full moon hike

R2. For more info: 021 863 2800, email bemarking@taalmuseum.co.za or visit taalmonument.co.za. For more info on the picnic menu, call 084 626 2815 or email volksmond@taalmuseum.co.za Mile High with Cathy Specific A musical comedy about the Queen of the Skies whose secret ambition is to star in her own big Broadway musical. Ends 9 January.

Time: 5pm and 8pm. Venue: The NewSpace Theatre, 44 Long St. Cost: tbc. Contact: 021 422 5522 or visit newspacetheatre.co.za CPR and first aid courses A qualified AHA instructor will give this course.

Booking is essential. Courses also on every Wednesday and Saturday until 30 January. Time: call to enquire. Venue: CT Medi-Clinic, Hof St, Oranjezicht.

Cost: R175 including manual. Contact: 084 593 2314 or email danola@mweb.co.za

of the draw (taking place down the road at the CTICC). Time: 7am until late.

Venue: Long St. Cost: free. For more info: 021 410 5000 West Coast carols The school is abuzz with the spirit of Christmas carols. Call to enquire about Ellie’s Christmas party.

Time: from 5pm; Community Carols at 8pm. Venue: Elkanah House High School.

Cost: R10. Contact: 021 554 8586 or email schoolyard@elkanah.co.za Cap Classique & Champagne Festival Spend the Champagne festival weekend popping corks, filling flutes, sipping delicious bubbly and snacking on delicacies prepared by some of the valley’s gourmet masterminds.

Ends 6 December. Time: Friday 6pm–8pm for the cocktail party. Venue: Franschhoek Monument, Franschhoek. Cost: R180 per day, which includes complimentary wine tasting coupons and a glass. Contact: 021 876 2861 4 December – Cap Classique & Champagne Festival

3 thursday Three Wiser Men and Big Brother Big Sister is raising funds for young children in need to help them realise their full potential. The show is directed by David Kramer and celebrates Capetonians’ ability to laugh at, and with, one another. Time: 8pm. Venue: Baxter Theatre. Cost: R120.

Contact BBBSSA offices: 021 682 4467 or email tammy@bbbssa.org.za

4 friday 2010 FIFA World Cup final draw party Be around for the street party on Long Street with a big screen for a live broadcast

A Christmas Carol pantomime This is the well-known story of mean old Scrooge and how he is visited by ghosts. Ends 19 December. Time: tbc. Venue: Little Theatre, Gardens. Cost: R40–R80. For more info: 072 923 1035

5 saturday Spinnathon M.A.D about child protection Friends of Child Protection, in Association with Virgin Active and Canal Walk, is hosting a Spinnathon to raise funds for the much needed comfort packs that it supplies to the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences units of the South African Police Services by getting as many people as possible to spin for an hour or for the duration of the eight-hour event. Time slots are allocated on a first come first served basis. Entries accepted on the day. Time: 11am–8pm. Venue: La Piazza, Canal Walk Shopping Centre. Cost: R100 per adult entry for a 60-minute slot or R50 per entry for a 30-minute slot for children 12–16 years. Time slots can be booked by pre-registering. Contact Kirstin: 021 790 7001 or email fcp@webmail.co.za for electronic entry forms Obz Festival The largest street festival of its kind in Southern Africa, the annual Obz Festival brings a celebratory mood to the cultural heart of the Mother City. See the city’s top musicians in action, the best of Obz nightlife, a documentary film festival, exciting playgrounds for the children, an extensive craft market, as well as the Lazy Sunday concert aimed at jazz lovers. Ends 6 December. Time: varies. Venue: tbc. Cost: tbc. For more info: visit obzfestival.com Just Jinjer unplugged Pack a picnic basket or order a hamper from the estate, and enjoy an unforgettable evening under the stars in the magnificent, natural setting of the Paul Cluver Forest Amphitheatre. Time: gates open at 5pm, show starts at 7pm.

Venue: Paul Cluver Forest Amphitheatre, 55-minute drive from Cape Town, off the N2 near Grabouw. Cost: R175. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000, any Shoprite or Checkers or visit cluver.com Craft day Children have fun using beads and paper to make beaded crafts. The morning ends with a puppet show. Time: Cape Town’s

PHOTOGRAPHS: SXC.HU/LUCINDATIKWART.COM

1 tuesday

For a free listing, fax your event to 021 462 2680 or email it to lucille@childmag.co.za. Information must be received by 8 January for the February issue and must include all relevant details. No guarantee can be given that it will be published. Compiled by LUCILLE KEMP.

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

61

10:30am–12:30pm. Venue: Noordhoek Farm Village. Cost: free. For more info: 021 7789 2812. Also 12 December: make their own Christmas stocking and decorations, 16 January 2010: Back to School magic show, 23 January 2010: summer fun day and 30 January 2010: find lost treasure

6 sunday Steve Hofmeyr at the D’Aria summer concert series This concert is one of five in a summer season filled with the best wines and delicious picnics on the lawn until sunset. All ages are welcome.

Taking your own alcohol is prohibited.

Time: gates open at noon; show starts at 5pm. Venue: Durbanville Wine Valley. Cost: R120. Contact D’Aria: 021 975 0421 or visit webtickets.co.za 4 December – A Christmas Carol pantomime

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.

Cost: R75. Contact: 021 799 8783 or visit sanbi.org or book through webtickets.co.za

Green tip of the month

7 monday

the most cost-effective ways of addressing

A Celebration A variety show with music and lyrics by the renowned song writing team Rodgers and Hart, who produce a rousing spoof of almost 60 songs.

Featuring standards such as ‘Manhattan’, ‘Blue Moon’, ‘The Lady is a Tramp’ and ‘Bewitched’. From 1–12 December. Time: varies. Venue: Milnerton Playhouse, Pienaar Rd, Milnerton. Cost: R60 for evening performances, R50 for Saturday matinees.

Contact: 021 557 3206, 082 267 1061 or email macdram@absamail.co.za La Leche League is hosting the following breastfeeding support groups for pregnant and nursing mothers: today in Panorama, 8 December in Durbanville and 16 December in Parow. For more information on meeting details for January, mothers are welcome to phone. Time: 10am. Cost: free.

Contact Rosemary: 021 910 0606, Trudy: 021 913 2816 or Dilshaad: 021 930 2475

8 tuesday

Drakenstein Festival of Lights is entertainment for the whole family with performances by local artists, stalls, a merrygo-round and more. Ends 8 December.

Time: varies. Venue: Paarl and Wellington.

Cost: tbc. Contact Paarl info: 021 872 4842 or Wellington info: 021 873 4604 Tygerberg Children’s Choir Christmas concerts This world-class choir celebrates its 38th year with a varied programme, which will appeal to young and old.

This year’s concert promises to be a breathtaking spectacle of sound and light.

Time: 3pm. Venue: Endler Hall, University of Stellenbosch. Cost: R60 on Saturday; R80 for all other performances. Contact Yvonne: 021 948 4046 The Killers The popular American alternative rock band is in town for one night only. Time: 6pm. Venue: Val de Vie Wine Estate, Paarl. Cost: R396–R526. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit thekillersmusic.com Scarborough Christmas market Craft, food and art stalls. Time: 10am–2pm.

Venue: parking area next to Camel Rock restaurant, Scarborough. Cost: free.

For more info: 021 780 1117 or email mariannedj@gmail.com Kirstenbosch Summer Concert featuring Jesse Clegg The soft rock artist performs songs from his hit album When I Wake Up. Time: 5:30pm. Venue:

62

December 2009/January 2010

Community Chest Twilight team run This athletic event sees over 20 000 people crawl, walk or run in teams of six, some dressed in the wackiest costumes, through the streets of the City Bowl and on to a rocking after party. Time: best dressed competition starts at 5pm; race starts at 7pm. Venue: start and finish Table Bay Boulevard. Cost: R30. Contact Community Chest: 021 424 3344 Fun holiday activities Children can attend craft workshops making decorations from recycled material only. Parents can enjoy the restaurant from Tuesday to Sunday 9am–5pm. There is lots of space for the children to play under the watchful eye of childminders. Time: workshops 8– 10 December and 15–17 December tbc.

Make ‘Plant today, live tomorrow’ your new motto. Tree planting remains one of climate change as trees and forests play a vital role in regulating climate by absorbing carbon dioxide. Did you know an average of 150 trees need to be planted to offset the carbon emissions of one person? Here are some other reasons why you should plant a tree: • Trees provide shade and beautify environment • Some trees provide food • Trees enrich and anchor soil to maximise water supplies • They help with biodiversity conservation • Trees also supply timber, fibre, medicines and energy.

Speak to your nursery about indigenous trees and when is the best time to plant them. In the 43 groups of indigenous tree species, there are about 1 000 different indigenous trees that occur in South Africa. Europe, by comparison, has approximately 100. Indigenous trees are a crucial part of our ecosystem.

Why not use a potted indigenous tree as a Christmas tree and then replant it in the garden afterwards?

Venue: Mondeor Garden & Life, Somerset West. Cost: workshops tbc. For more info: 021 858 1087 or 082 565 0615

9 wednesday World AIDS Day celebration African Centre for HIV/AIDS Management in Stellenbosch hosts a gathering in memory of those who died because of the virus and to support those who are living with it. This event educates all about the dangers of HIV/ AIDS and there is also free testing. Time: 9am–noon. Venue: N. Otto Community

Hall, Porterville. Cost: free. Contact Dean: 022 931 2100

10 thursday Chris Saunders exhibition Chris Saunders is a top South African photographer and director, based in Johannesburg and Cape Town. His work is strongly influenced by social diversity. His exhibition is on display at Gardens Centre so look out for the 16 original portrait images suspended throughout. Ends 15 December. Time: opening times of Gardens Centre. Venue: Mill St, City Bowl. Cost: free. Contact: 021 465 1842

11 friday The Ruth Prowse School of Art Graduate Exhibition 2009 Graduate students from all departments are represented in their areas of study including photography, jewellery design, fine art and graphic design. The opening night speaker is the renowned Lionel Davis.

From 27 November–11 December. Time: 7pm. Venue: The Ruth Prowse School of Art, top of Birkdale Ave, Woodstock.

Cost: free. For more info: 021 447 2492, email admin@ruthprowse.co.za or visit ruthprowse.co.za Christmas at Tyger Valley Centre Kidzville is back this December school holiday, exclusive to Tyger Valley Centre.

The Promotions Court is transformed into an adventure wonderland where parents can leave their children with professional child minders free of charge, while they shop at any of the 275 stores. Ends 23 December. Time: 10am–5pm. Venue: Promotions Court, Lower Level, Tyger Valley Centre. Cost: free. Contact Tyger Valley Centre: 021 914 1822 or email info@tygervalley.co.za Disney magic Canal Walk Central Court is transformed into a Disney wonderland.

Children can meet some of their favourite

5 December – Just Jinjer

Cape Town’s

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

63

characters from Mickey Mouse to Tinker Bell. They can also record their own CD to the backing tracks of Hannah Montana.

There are arts and crafts on offer. Ends 31 December. Time: 9am–9pm daily. Venue: Canal Walk Shopping Centre. Cost: free entry, arts and crafts R15. For more info: visit canalwalk.co.za

12 saturday Summer elegance at the House of Krone Vintage treasures, beautiful dresses and summer elegance – this is summer socialising at its finest in a relaxed yet elegant environment with the best of delicatessen offerings to tantalise your senses. The younger visitors can enjoy a game of boules, a tractor and trailer ride through the Winelands, a bounce around on the jumping castle or simple enjoyment of the fresh country air. Time: varies. Venue: Tulbagh. Cost: R100 per adult, which includes a bubbly flute, bubbly tastings and cellar tours. R50 per child. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult. Contact Luke: 023 230 0680 Stellenbosch fresh goods market is an authentic all-weather slow food market where producers sell products they have sourced, grown, cultivated, harvested, caught, preserved or transformed themselves.

You have a chance to taste food before you buy it, and bargaining and swapping of recipes is the order of the day. Time: every Saturday, 9am–2pm. Venue: Oude Libertas Centre. Contact: 072 922 931, email slowfood@slowmarket.co.za or visit slowmarket.co.za Pick Up Litter Parade 2 Jungle Theatre Company (JTC) is back with a bigger and brighter Pick Up Litter Parade in Muizenberg. Don’t miss this fun family afternoon, which creatively tackles the very visible problem of litter and waste in the Muizenberg precincts. You and your children are invited to join the parade and dress up as your favourite sea creature or come as yourself and follow the giant shark, octopus and turtle and the musicians along the beach. Ocean Minded is providing gloves and bags for all who want to join in the creative litter clean up and challenge everyone on the beach to find

11 December – The Ruth Prowse School of Art exhibition

64

December 2009/January 2010

the strangest piece of litter. At the end of the parade, everyone is encouraged to decorate a driftwood Christmas tree with the litter. The tree is a reminder through the busy festive season to not litter and keep the beach clean. Time: 2pm. Venue: Surfers Corner, Muizenberg Beach. For more info: 021 788 5641, email info@jungletheatre.co.za or visit jungletheatre.co.za Winnie the Pooh The adventures of Pooh and his friends as they set out to try and catch a woozle in the forest. Tickets through Computicket. Ends 23 December.

Time: Monday–Saturday 10:30am; matinee on Fridays, 2:30pm. Venue: Artscape Chandelier Foyer, Artscape Theatre.

Cost: R40. For more info: 021 421 7839, email artscape@artscape.co.za or visit artscape.co.za Buckets of Love campaign gives the public more opportunities to help the needy this Christmas. With the country in recession and food prices continually on the rise many families in South Africa have been left destitute. Over the last 22 years, Catholic Welfare and Development’s (CWD) annual Buckets of Love campaign has brought much needed relief to many families in the Western Cape. This year CWD has spiced up the Buckets of Love campaign by inviting the public to host dinner parties of their own – as a fun way to bring family and friends together to share a meal and simultaneously raise money for the campaign. From the end of October, learners from various schools have assisted with packing the buckets to ensure their distribution this December. Last year, 7 200 families enjoyed nutritious meals over Christmas thanks to the extensive involvement of parishes, schools and the greater public. As well as addressing poverty, the long-term goal of the campaign is to engage beneficiaries in various educational programmes, job creation and skills training. A Bucket of Love (BOL) costs R100 and donations can be made online at cwd.org. za or by calling 021 425 2095. For more info: 021 402 1150 or email bucketsoflove@cwd.org.za Yoga for children A fun and exciting programme endorsed by Deepak Chopra where children can stretch, relax, breathe and strengthen their bodies. Child only and child and parent classes. Booking essential.

Ends 19 December. Time: varies. Venue: YogaKids Gardens and Rondebosch. Cost: R75 per class. Discount for more than one class booked. Contact: 083 255 6752 or email toniwestaway@gmail.com Science farm At this holiday programme, children learn how to milk a cow, explore science behind farm sounds, experiment with soil testing and build a water pump.

Ends 12 January. Time: tbc. Venue: MTN Sciencentre, Canal Walk. Cost: tbc. For more info: visit mtnsciencentre.org.za Cape Town’s

Davy and the Dinosaurs is a fun interactive show for children. Ends 12 January. Time: Monday–Friday, noon–1pm (no 1pm shows on 24 and 31 December); Saturday–Sunday, noon. Also 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 and 31 January at noon. Venue: Iziko Planetarium. Cost: tbc. For more info: 021 481 3900

Go WILD these school holidays at Cape Union Mart’s Canal Walk Adventure Centre!

13 sunday Christmas concert and market for the D’Aria Summer Concert Series; a day of picnic blankets and baskets, and the best wine and food on sale. Time: gates open at noon; show 5:30pm–6:30pm. Venue: Durbanville Wine Valley. Cost: R70. For more info: 021 975 0421 SA Paragliding Winelands Open promises to exceed the expectations of competition pilots from South Africa and around the world. There is two takeoff options as well as a separate staging area as the event takes flight in Porterville.

Ends 19 December. Time: pilots need to be ready to fly between 10am and 11am to take advantage of the area’s ideal conditions. Venue: Pampoenfontein. Cost: tbc. Contact Mike: 083 645 1516 or Cath: 082 601 6876 Kirstenbosch craft market Visit the market for arts and crafts stalls, food and delicacies as well as attractions for children. Time: 9am–3pm. Venue: grounds of the Kirstenbosch Stone Cottages, cnr Kirstenbosch Dr and Rhodes Ave, diagonally opposite the main entrance to Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Cost: free entry.

Contact: 021 799 8800 Cape Town Symphony Choir presents Oratorio de Noël, a Christmas concert.

Time: 4pm. Venue: Bishops School Chapel, Rondebosch. Cost: adults R80, pensioners or scholars R50. Includes wine/juice and mince pies. Contact: 021 788 2008 Lebanon family mountain bike fun ride An opportunity for families or individuals to experience the beauty 12 December – Winnie the Pooh

Cape Union Mart and Petzl invite all budding mountaineers to an open climbing day on a seven metre climbing wall. There’s also live tarantula handling with a trained professional, as well as a snake and bird show. If your children love nature, and want the thrill of getting up close and personal with a range of creepy crawlies and feathered friends, then these events are not to be missed.

All presentations are held in the Cape Union Mart Adventure Centre in Canal Walk, and are free of charge.

There’s also a 10% discount on all normally-priced merchandise… a little incentive to keep you interested while your children are safely entertained.

Proposed presentations: Kids’ Climbing Day Sponsored by the climbing specialists Petzl, this whole day climbing bonanza is for children of all ages. Free-climb, or race against your friends. Spot prizes.

Date: Saturday, 12 December 2009 Time: 10am–6pm Assisted Tarantula Handling Beat your fear of spiders with a professional tarantula handler.

Date: Sunday, 13 December 2009 Time: 11am–1pm Snake Show The guys from Cape Town Snake Park deliver a highly entertaining and informative ‘snake show’, starring many crawlies from our very own back yard, and a couple from slightly further afield…

Date: Monday, 14 December 2009 Time: 11am–noon Bird Show Flock to Cape Union Mart and meet a collection of feathered friends both big and small.

Date: Tuesday, 15 December 2009 Time: 11am–noon For more info: 021 555 4692, visit capeunionmart.co.za or go to Cape Union Mart Adventure Centre, Pod 4, Canal Walk Boulevard

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

65

of the countryside with a mountain bike ride along a scenic route with a great flowing single track. Time: 25km starts 8:30am for men, 8:45am for ladies; 10km starts 9am; 3km starts 9:15am. Venue: Oaklane Cottages, Elgin Valley, Grabouw.

Cost: R35–R80. Contact: 021 884 4752, email theteam@dirtopia.co.za or visit dirtopia.co.za Candle lighting Parents who have lost children gather to honour them with poems, writings, DVDs, music and a candle lighting ceremony, which forms part of an international event. All welcome. Cool drinks are supplied. Please take a plate of eats. Venue: Novalis Ubuntu Institute, Rosmead Ave, Wynberg. Cost: tbc. Contact Suzette: 084 568 8402, The Compassionate Friends of Cape Town: 0861 CARING or email support@tcfcape.co.za

66

December 2009/January 2010

14 monday Children’s school holiday cooking Two hours of great cooking fun for children to learn how to make a variety of dishes. Also 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22 December. Maximum 12 people per class. Time: 10am–noon.

Venue: WhatsCooking, Blouberg. Cost: R95 per child per class (minimum age 6).

Contact: 021 554 1603 The Night Before Christmas Enchanting children’s Christmas musical. On the night before Christmas Emily stares out of the window, hugs her teddy and waits excitedly for the morning. In the corner of her room, a little mouse called Eddie can’t understand why only humans get to celebrate and receive presents. Ends 24 December. Time: Monday to Saturday, 11am and 2pm.

Venue: NewSpace Theatre. Cost: R60. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 The Elves and the Shoemaker This magical Christmas fairytale takes place during Christmas in Cape Town, where a German shoemaker lives with his wife.

They are very poor and are worried that they will not be able to sell any shoes. Two young elves pay them a visit and make it the best Christmas they have ever had. The duration of the show is 40 minutes, and it is suitable for children 3–8 years. Ends 23 December. No Sunday performance.

13 December – Lebanon family mountain bike ride

Time: 10:30am. Venue: The Baxter Theatre.

Cost: R35. For more info and block bookings, contact Elton: 021 558 2650. For more info: visit baxter.co.za Gail Petersen’s children’s entertainment presents Puppets Alive, Mo Muggles Finds a Home and Christmas with Winnie the Pooh.

The shows are suitable for ages 3 years and over. Ends 15 December. Time: tbc. Venue:

Voortrekker Hall, Kenridge Primary School.

Cost: R20. Contact Gail: 021 913 6878 Holiday art workshops for children from grade R–7. Children can attend all eight sessions or just a selection of sessions. The programme each morning follows a different theme and technique.

Ends 23 December. Time: 9:30am– noon. Venue: Frank Joubert Art Centre,

Cape Town’s

through Sannie: 079 137 8596 or email actionball@prolinksa.co.za Arts and crafts holiday programme for children. Ends 24 December. Time: 9am–noon daily. Venue: Artjamming Cape Quarter and Wembley Square. Cost: R110 per day, including a snack. For more info: Cape Quarter: 021 421 6129, Wembley Square: 021 462 1168

15 tuesday

Keurboom Rd, Newlands. Cost: R70 per morning. Contact: 083 359 3270 or email gabby@circlestories.co.za Fun and games with Actionball (3–9 years) and Crawl Squad (1–3 years) workshops. Also 15, 17, 18, 21 and 22 December. Time: 10am–11am and 2pm–3pm. Venue: various Planet Fitness branches. Call to enquire. Cost: R40. Book

Cape Town’s

Pure Boland Christmas market (Worcester) Stuck for Christmas gift ideas and need some inspiration? Then the Pure Boland Christmas Market is your answer. The beautiful Brandwacht Valley is the setting for this market where you can enjoy food and wine while browsing the stalls. There are many activities for the little ones. Also take part in the 10km night run through the vineyard. Time: 6pm– 11pm. Night run 7pm. Venue: Groenstoor, Brandwacht, Worcester. Cost: race R25.

Contact: 082 301 8561 Aqua Festival: H2Opera Soloists perform arias from famous operas and popular musicals. Ends 17 December. Time: 8:30pm.

Venue: North Wharf, V&A Waterfont. Cost: tbc. For more info: visit waterfront.co.za or book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 Bugz Family Playpark is having a very merry Christmas party. Also 18 December.

Time: 6pm–10pm. Venue: 56 Tarentaal St,

Joostenbergvlakte. Cost: R150. Contact: 021 988 8836 or visit bugzplaypark.co.za Daily Christmas bazaar which ends 24 December, from 11am–7pm. Also loads of children’s entertainment from 12–24 December and 4–9 January, noon–3pm. San Mari from 7de Laan will host the Zevenwacht beauty competition on 22 December at 7pm. A chess competition runs from 17–19 December. Time: varies. Venue: Zevenwacht Mall, Kuilsriver. Cost: from R20–R50. For more info: 021 903 0859 or visit zevenwachtmall.co.za

16 wednesday Junior adventure camps for ages 7– 13. There is box cart racing, an obstacle

course, archery and kite building among other activities. Ends 18 December. Time: call to enquire. Venue: Oxygen Adventures, Kweekkraal Guest Farm, Riversdale, Garden Route. Cost: call to enquire.

Contact Eugene: 072 990 0359, email riversdalryskool@vodamail.co.za or visit riversdaleridingschool.co.za Festive fun zone Join Santa and his elves for a fun-filled day. There is face painting and festive season craft-making.

Children can also take a ride on Santa’s Christmas carousel tree. Ends 24 December.

Time: 10am–6pm. Venue: Centre Court, Somerset Mall. Cost: arts and crafts R20, R10 per ride. Contact Philippa: 021 852 7114

17 December – SA Open Championship

December 2009/January 2010

67

Fusion workshop A fun adult dance workshop that will have you laughing and sweating. Time: varies. Venue: Dance4fitness, 36 Franklin St, Claremont. Cost: R100. For more info: visit dance4fitness.co.za Greek nights Enjoy a mezze menu, including traditional breads, dips, and souvlakie every Wednesday. Time: 6:30pm.

Venue: Greek Fisherman, V&A Waterfront.

Cost: R149. For more info: 021 418 5411

17 thursday SA Open Championships This is the second oldest open golf championship in the world. Five of the world’s top 20 players including Ernie Els and Trevor Immelman, as well as Greg Norman, will be in this year’s field. Ends 20 December.

Time: tbc. Venue: Pearl Valley Golf Estates, Paarl. Cost: R250. Contact: 021 867 8000 Christmas carnival at CapeGate Children can ride the carousel and festive train, create Christmas cards, decorate cookies, see magic shows, meet Santa and Willie Crocodile and Ali Gator. Ends 24 December. Time: 10am–3pm. Venue: CapeGate Shopping Precinct, Brackenfell.

Cost: free. Contact: 021 981 2288

18 friday The Rock Circus is a show and circus like no other, where your ringmaster introduces a live band, aerial acts, clowns and magicians who perform to six decades of music.

Ends 31 December. Time: tbc. Venue: The Barnyard Theatre, Willowbridge Lifestyle Centre, Tygervalley. Cost: tbc. Contact: 021 914 8898 or visit barnyardtheatre.co.za 19 December – Christmas gift-making workshop

Country craft market with over 200 stalls selling genuine hand crafts. Also 5, 12 and 16 December. Time: 8am–1pm. Venue: 186 Main Rd, Somerset West. Cost: free entry. Contact Lesley: 021 843 3287 or Gill: 021 852 6608

20 sunday Gardens Centre holiday arts and crafts workshops Bring your children to enjoy a variety of arts and crafts, puppet and magic shows, face painting, story time, a building block area as well as a soft play area for smaller children. You can leave your child with them while you shop for two hours daily. Children younger than four must be accompanied by an adult. Time: 11am–1pm daily. Venue: Gardens Centre. Cost: free. Contact: 021 465 1842 Christmas market day at Century City, Natural Goods Market Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: Central Park, Park Lane, Century City. Cost: free entry. Contact: 021 531 2173 Carols by candlelight and The Christmas Rose puppet theatre Ends 22 December. Time: 5pm. Venue: Rainbow Puppet Theatre, Constantia Waldorf School. Cost: R30. Contact: 021 783 2063

21 monday Twin Oaks Light Festival Comprising a wide variety of Christmas goods, food stalls and music, this daily festival keeps moms happy in December. There are over 90 stalls for you to pick a Christmas bargain from and 16 food stalls to feed a hungry shopping family. Accompanied by Christmas jingles, this festival creates the perfect Christmas atmosphere. Ends 10 January. Time: 7pm.

Venue: Twin Oaks Centre, 144 Main Rd, Somerset West. Cost: free entry. Contact: 021 558 0070 Christmas crafts and story time Story time is followed by a chance to make special Christmas candles. Suitable for ages 3–8. Time: 10am. Venue: Folio Books, 207 Main Rd, Newlands; opposite Westerford High. Cost: free. Contact: 021 685 7190 or email FolioBooks@storm.co.za

22 tuesday

19 saturday Christmas gift-making workshop Children will make bath and body products using economical, healthy ingredients from the kitchen and garden and some craft materials. Wrapping is included.

Time: 2pm–3pm for 8–11 years and 3:30pm–5pm for 12–14 years. Venue: private residence in Camps Bay. Cost: R100 (includes all materials). Contact Lindy: 072 307 8242 POP Art Place of Play has launched a new arts and crafts centre. Children can paint and decorate their own canvas to take home. Time: 9am–9pm daily. Venue: Place of Play, Canal Walk. Cost: call to enquire. Contact Heidi: 021 555 0303

68

December 2009/January 2010

Aqua Festival: Aqua carols Richard Cock conducts the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, soloist Kimm Skota and a 60-piece choir in a performance of popular Christmas carols. Ends 24 December.

Time: 8:30pm. Venue: North Wharf, V&A Waterfont. Cost: tbc. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or for more information visit waterfront.co.za

23 wednesday A children’s craft workshop Make ridiculous Rock Pets or Rainsticks – super as a last minute gift. Time: 10am–11:30am. Venue: Freshly Crafted, Oakhurst Farmpark, Hout Bay. Cost: R50 per child including material, juice and cupcake. Contact: 021 790 7900 or email freshlycrafted@mweb.co.za Cape Town’s

Red Cross Christmas party Cape Town’s Child advertisers have jumped willingly on board to help make Christmas a little brighter for the children at Red Cross Children’s Hospital. Paula’s Party Stuff is supplying a bubble machine and candy floss machine, Mr Magic is going to be the magician on the day, Frostings and Homebakes will supply cupcakes, BKE Costume Rental will be getting the party-goers into character with their dress up costumes and Enchanted Parties will be painting faces, staging a puppet show and providing costumes for Father Christmas and The Christmas Fairy. To all of these businesses, a big thank you!

After work Wednesdays at HQ Bar Enjoy summer and the silly season with smooth jazz every Wednesday. Time: 5:30pm until late. Venue: Headquarters Restaurant, 100 Shortmarket St. Cost: free entry. Contact: 021 424 6373

24 thursday Children’s holiday club offers a day of games, arts and crafts, music, stories and play dough. Pre-book three sessions and get a free gift. Ideal for ages 3–8 years.

11 December–13 January. Time: 9:30am– 12:30pm and 1pm–4:30pm. Venue: Plinka Plonka Play indoor play centre, Buitenkant St. Cost: R85 per session including snack and juice. Contact: 021 465 0503 Christmas book fair Get a free book with every purchase you make at Help the Rural Child Charity Bookshop. From 26 November to 24 December. Venue: Shop 3, South Palms Centre, Main Rd, Retreat and cnr Victoria and Main Rd, Mowbray.

Contact Retreat: 021 701 1328 or Mowbray: 021 689 8392

25 friday Make Christmas Matter is an innovative online shop that offers carefully selected gifts, like vegetable seedlings for a community food garden, or a mobility cane for a sight-impaired person. Gifts range from R50 to R1 000. Buying one allows you to make a meaningful contribution to a social development project in South Africa.

Contact GreaterGood: 021 762 7944 or visit makechristmasmatter.co.za

26 saturday Festival of Chariots is an east meets west cultural experience that offers you the opportunity to explore and appreciate cultures in a fun day out for the whole family. The parade is the highlight of the festival where hundreds of festivalgoers from all over South Africa pull the 20-metre, colourful wooden chariot by hand down the streets of Sea Point. The procession is accompanied by melodious singing and dancing. Time: 12:30pm–8pm.

Cultural entertainment starts at 4:30pm, float parade leaves the hall at 12:30 pm.

Venue: Sea Point Civic Hall. Cost: free entry.

Contact: 021 686 1179 Triangle Square market Get to this indoor market to purchase the wares of Cape Town’s

local producers. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: Fish Hoek. Cost: free entry. For more info: 082 990 5292 or visit trianglesquare.co.za

27 sunday New Year’s party celebration camp The New Year’s party follows a Kung Fu Panda theme. There is children’s “champagne”, a fireworks display and a martial arts workshop.

Over 100 activities for ages 7–17. Ends 3 January. Also 3–10 January. Time: pick up between noon and 1pm from Durban International Airport. Drop off at the airport between noon and 1pm on departure date.

Venue: Sugar Bay Luxury Holiday Resort, KZN. Cost: call to enquire. For more info: 032 485 3778 or visit sugarbay.co.za

28 monday JK Kids Gear is now open in Constantia Village. Come and check out their new fashionable children’s range. Time: Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm; Saturday, 9am–5pm; Sunday, 9am–1pm. Venue: Shop 52, Constantia Village. Cost: free entry. Contact head office: 021 551 8673

29 tuesday Aqua Festival: ABBA Hits by this ever popular group performed true to the originals as well as in a more groundbreaking style. Ends 31 December. Time: 8pm.

Venue: North Wharf, V&A Waterfront.

Cost: tbc. Book though Computicket: 083 915 8000

30 wednesday Have a ball at Somerset Mall By popular demand, Bubble Ball is back at Somerset Mall’s Centre Court this holiday.

Ends 12 January. Time: 9am–6pm. Venue: Somerset Mall. Cost: tbc. For more info: visit somersetmall.co.za

31 thursday Muizenberg moonlight meander A guided walk in the moonlight to Sunrise Circle or St James with music, dancing and drumming. Participants are encouraged to dress up or bring a musical instrument.

Restaurants are open or participants can bring a picnic basket. Time: 6pm–11pm.

Venue: Muizenberg Beach. Cost: donations welcome. For more info: 073 785 6388 Kirstenbosch New Year’s Eve concert Performances by Loyiso Bala, Flat Stanley, December 2009/January 2010

69

win! 2 saturday

Back to School “Give Back” Bring outgrown school clothes and excess stationery which are donated to less fortunate learners.

Ends 17 January. Time: 9am–9pm. Venue: Canal Walk Shopping Centre. Cost: free.

For more info: visit canalwalk.co.za

SpongeBob Squarepants: The Sponge Who Could Fly – A New Musical It’s been 10 years since a lovable Sponge by the name of Bob first appeared on television screens across America. Since then, millions of children around the world have been enthralled by his adventures in the underwater town of Bikini Bottom. Now, the cast and characters will come to life on stage in SpongeBob Squarepants: The Sponge Who Could Fly – A New Musical. In this theatre production, SpongeBob pursues his dream to fly with the jellyfish. The show is just over one-and-a-half hours and is ideal for families with children 6–12 years. Ends 13 January.

Time: 2pm, 3pm and 6pm depending on the day. Venue: Grand Arena, GrandWest. Cost: R100–R200. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000. For more info: visit spongebobontour.co.za Two families can each win four tickets to see this show compliments of GrandWest. Each ticket is valued at R180. To enter, email your details to win@childmag.co.za with ‘SpongeBob Win’ in the subject line before 15 December 2009. Only one entry per reader.

Chad Saaiman, Loading Zone and DJ Denver Apollus. Time: 7pm. Venue: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Cost: R220.

Contact: 021 799 8783

January

1 friday Kaapse Klopse, the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival The streets of Cape Town’s CBD come alive to celebrate the New Year in carnival style. Thousands of musicians, singers and dancers are transformed into costumed, banjo playing musicians and dancers with faces painted

70

December 2009/January 2010

white. They parade through the streets to Athlone Stadium to participate in a series of competitions. For more info on the starting times of events: 021 761 5239

5 tuesday

and do some bird watching on the way.

First Sunday of every month. Time: 9am– 2pm. Venue: Century City. Cost: free entry.

Contact: 021 531 2173

3 sunday

4 monday

Fresh ‘n tasty fare at the Century City Natural Goods Market A new outdoor market is the perfect place for the stylish, green shopper and the family. You’ll find an assortment of traders selling a range of high quality, local fresh produce.

Children can occupy themselves with an array of different activities. Families can even take a boat ride around Intaka Island

Red Riding Hood This portrayal of the classic fairytale is aimed at children 4–8 years. Ends 9 January. Also 11–12 January.

Time: 10:30am. Venue: Baxter Concert Hall. Cost: R35. Contact: 021 685 7880 Ratanga Junction opens from today until 12 January 2010. They are closed only on Christmas Day. For more info: 0861 200 300 or visit ratanga.co.za

Princess for a day Art and craft workshop where your daughter makes all the accessories she needs… as a princess for a day. Time: 10am–12:30pm. Venue: Freshly Crafted, Oakhurst Farmpark, Hout Bay. Cost: R65 per child including material, juice and cupcake. Contact Christina or Ursula: 021 790 7900 Cavendish children’s drop and shop zone Have photos taken with Santa and enjoy a festive sing-along. Ends 12 January.

Time: 10am–6pm. Venue: Cavendish. Cost: free entry. Craft packs R30 each. For more info: visit cavendish.co.za 1 January – Cape Town Minstrel Carnival

Cape Town’s

6 wednesday The Sporting Academy offers sports holiday programmes and clinics during the school holidays for children 5–13 years.

They also offer hip-hop dancing for girls.

Ends 8 January. Also 1–3, 14–17 and 21–24 December and 11–14 January. Time: 9am– 1pm or 1:30pm–5:30pm. Times vary per age group. Venue: Bergvliet, Constantia, False Bay Rugby Club, Meadowridge FC and Newlands. Cost: R90 per day or R340 for four days. Contact: 084 777 1212 Earth Fair Foodmarket take a trip back to the good old days where food was simple and healthy and not packed with 4 January – Red Riding Hood

preservatives and hormones. The market offers over 40 stalls as well as entertainment for the children. Also every Saturday 9am–2:30pm. Time: every Wednesday 4pm–8:30pm. Venue: South Palms, Main Rd, Tokai. Cost: free entry. Contact: 084 220 2856 or visit earthfairmarket.co.za

7 thursday Standard Bank Cape Town Jazzathon This popular open-air jazz festival is staged over four days. Ends 10 January. Time: 1pm–10pm. Venue: V&A Waterfront.

Cost: tbc. Contact: 021 696 6961 or visit jazzathon.co.za

8 friday Learner Husband Revealing tips and secrets from Stuart Taylor’s soon-to-be published book Learner Husband, this hysterical programme prepares you to survive the most perilous of all driving tests − marriage. Time: 8:15pm. Venue: Baxter Theatre. Cost: R80. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000

9 saturday Monkey Nuts A hilarious new show from the creators of The Chilli Boy. Time: 8:15pm. Venue: Golden Arrow Studio, Baxter Theatre. Cost: Monday–Thursday R110, Friday and Saturday R120. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

Cape Town’s

13 January – Joe Barber: School Cuts

10 sunday

12 tuesday

Freshlyground The dynamic, hugely successful Afro-Fusion band performs many of their hits. Time: 5:30pm. Venue: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.

Cost: R70–R95. Contact: 021 799 8783 or book through webtickets.co.za

Slips opening night. Ends 30 January. Time: 7:30pm. Venue: Baxter Theatre. Cost: from R60–R130. For more info: 021 685 1880 or visit baxter.co.za

11 monday Baxter Mondays Get your special deal at the Baxter Theatre but book way in advance – this is a popular show time and tickets sell like hot cakes. Meal and ticket special: R60.

For more info: 021 685 1880

13 wednesday Joe Barber: School Cuts The Barber boys explore the highlights of school life from the terrors of the first day to the highs of the matric dance. Ends 20 March. Time: Tuesday–Saturday, 8pm. Venue: Baxter Theatre. Cost: R80–R90. For more info: 021 685 7880 or visit baxter.co.za

December 2009/January 2010

71

14 thursday Organic market Every Thursday. Time: 8:30am–1pm. Venue: 41 Victoria Ave, Hout Bay. Cost: free entry. Contact: 021 790 5231

years free; Contact Esther: 021 464 1262, email eesmyol@iziko.org.za or Shanaaz: 021 464 1276 Manners4Minors classes start in Kenridge and Tygervalley. For time, cost and venue, call to enquire. Also 20 January in Tableview.

Contact Bianca: 083 407 6142 or email bianca@manners4minors.co.za

21 January – Windsurfing tournament

15 friday Playgroup at the Italian School Children 1–3 years have the opportunity to learn Italian. Time: 10am–11:30am. Venue: Scuola Italiana, 14 Tuin Plein St, Gardens. Cost: tbc. Contact: 021 465 8261 or email info@scuolaitalianadelcapo.co.za

20 wednesday Africa Business Network A meeting with guest speakers and lucky draws thrown in.

Don’t forget your business cards and diaries.

All home businesses and entrepreneurs welcome. Time: 9am–noon. Venue: Rylands Library, Gatesville. Cost: R30 (members R20). Contact: 021 703 9294 or 074 1060 713

16 saturday Neighbourgoods market If you didn’t know already, this is Cape Town’s original gourmet market, featuring over 100 specialty traders in fine food, organic products and artisan goods. Time: every Saturday, 9am–2pm. Venue: The Old Biscuit Mill, Woodstock. Cost: free entry. For more info: visit neighbourgoodsmarket.co.za EQual Zeal Plan Workshop for ages 6– 18 years. Help your child to set goals for success. Time: 9am–noon. Venue: The Blouberg Life Coaching Studio for Kids.

Cost: R320. Contact: 082 453 4313 or email angelique@equalzeal.com

17 sunday

3:30pm; concert starts at 5:30pm. Venue: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.

Cost: adults R95, scholars (6–17 years) R70.

Book through Kirstenbosch ticket office: 021 761 2866

18 monday Wine Desk The Wine Desk presents wines from L’Ormarins. Time: 9am. Venue: Cape

Town Gateway Visitor Centre. Cost: free.

Wine tastings are complimentary. Contact the Wine Desk: 021 405 4550

19 tuesday Not Alone exhibition ends 31 January.

Time: 9:30am–4pm. Venue: Iziko at the Castle of Good Hope. Cost: adults R25; children 5–16 years R10; children under 5

Windsurfing tournament WSA Tours hosts the fourth round of this exhilirating event. Ends 24 January. Time: 9am–7pm.

Venue: Langebaan. Cost: varies. Juniors R100. Contact: for entry and race info visit windsurfingafrica.org

22 friday Hands on winemaking Make wine the traditional way. Get involved in picking, de-stemming, crushing and pressing of grapes using traditional equipment. Apart from plenty of sampling along the way,

family marketplace

Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts Pack a picnic basket and some wine and enjoy Zebra & Giraffe. Time: gates open at

21 thursday

72

December 2009/January 2010

Cape Town’s

you can taste wines from previous years and from wineries in the area. Day events include lunch, tea and wine tasting.

Winemaking is made fun for the whole family with a few additional children’s activities. Ends 24 January. Also 29–31 January. Time: call to enquire. Venue: Fynbos Estate. Cost: Friday–Sunday R1 700 all inclusive; day events R500 all inclusive.

Contact Diana: 022 487 1153 or visit fynbosestate.co.za

23 saturday Classic car and bike show features some of the rarest and most beautiful cars and bikes in the Cape and is one of only a handful of exhibits on this scale. Day one displays modern classics and day two displays vintage models. There are food stalls, cool drinks, a beer garden and a jumping castle to entertain the children.

There is ample parking available. Ends 24 January. Time: 10am–4pm. Venue: Timour Hall, Timour Hall Rd, Plumstead, Cape Town. Cost: R20; children under 12 free.

Tickets are available for pre-purchase from the venue from the beginning of January.

Contact Jo: 021 797 2582

25 monday Story time every Monday. Please call a week before the date to confirm. Time: 10am. Venue: Blouberg Library, Andrew

Cape Town’s

Foster Rd, Bloubergstrand. Cost: free.

Contact: 021 554 1641

27 wednesday Homegroan opens An autobiographical piece on how Kurt Schoonraad dodges the obstacles of parenthood, technology and the recession. Time: 8:15pm. Venue: Baxter Theatre Concert Hall. Cost: R80. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000

28 thursday Top Gear Live An exhibition and live motor stage showcase featuring a collection of the world’s most desirable cars with the very popular BBC Top Gear presenters, Jeremy 30 January – J&B Met

Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May. Ends 31 January. Time: varies. Venue: Grand Arena, GrandWest. Cost: R250–R450.

For more info: visit topgear.com or book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

29 friday Zeal for Life® eight-week EQ training to give your child (Grade R–8) the tools needed to deal with setbacks and challenges. Time: depends on age group.

Venue: The Blouberg Life Coaching Studio for Kids. Cost: R120 per session, plus R250 for a Zeal Kit. Contact: 082 453 4313 or email angelique@equalzeal.com

30 saturday Dahling it’s time for the 32nd J&B Met This renowned horse racing event is one of South Africa’s best, with plenty of money to be won and a chance to see the latest in haute couture in full colour. Time: gates open 11am. First race at noon, last race 7pm. Venue: Kenilworth Racecourse. Cost: R150. For more info: visit jbmet.co.za Watershed The hugely successful SA rock band performs tonight. Time: 7pm. Venue: Paul Cluver Amphitheatre, Grabouw, N2 Kromco turn off. Cost: R240. For more info: 021 844 0605 or visit watershed.co.za or book through Computicket: 083 915 8000

31 sunday Willowbridge Slow Market An indoor market with a diverse range of organic, fresh foods and goods. The products are seasonal and locally sourced as far as possible. Time: every Saturday 9am–3pm.

Venue: Willowbridge Lifestyle Centre, Tygervalley. Cost: free entry. Contact: 021 914 7218 or visit willowbridge.co.za Kirstenbosch Craft Market Visit the market for arts and crafts stalls, food and delicacies as well as attractions for children. Time: 9am–3pm. Venue: grounds of the Kirstenbosch Stone Cottages, cnr Kirstenbosch Dr and Rhodes Ave, opposite the main entrance to Kirstenbosch Garden.

Cost: free entry. Contact: 021 799 8800

December 2009/January 2010

73

Going to Durban or Joburg this December? Here are some things to do…

Durban

Joburg 7 december

5 december FNB Dolphin Dash Purchasing a toy dolphin gives you entry into Sea World and Wet ’n Wild, where you can enjoy celebrity entertainment and take part in the dolphin race to stand a chance of winning R15 000.

All proceeds go to the Sea World Rescue Unit. Time: 9am. Venue: uShaka Marine World. Cost: R100. Contact Theresa: 031 328 8000

8 december Peter Pan Based on the novel by J.M.Barrie, this full scale musical delights children and adults with its special effects and set. Starring Bryan Hiles as Peter. Ends 9 January. Time: varies. Venue: Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre.

Cost: varies. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit kickstart-theatre.co.za

14 december Old Mutual Carols by candlelight at the lake Enjoy an evening under the stars with music by the KZNPO and the Clermont Community Choir. The programme includes carols and festive tunes with audience participation and a visit from Father Christmas. Take your picnic baskets. Candles are on sale. Time: 6pm. Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens.

74

December 2009/January 2010

Cost: adults R70, children R20. For more info: 031 309 1170, 031 202 5819 or purchase tickets from tunegum.com

15 december Litchi picking festival Take a tractor trailer trip to the orchard and eat as many litchis as you can while there. If you wish to take some home, pick and fill a 2kg bag, which is charged for separately.

Ends 1 January. Time: 9am−4pm. Venue: Cane Cutters Resort. Cost: adults R40, children R25. For more info: 032 947 0851, email stay@canecuttersresort.co.za or visit canecuttersresort.co.za

20 december Festive steam train The train departs from Kloof and travel along the edge of the scenic Valley of a Thousand Hills to Inchanga. Passengers receive a candle with holder and hymn sheet to join in the carols on the platform before the train returns. Time: 5pm departure from Kloof, 6:30pm carols and 8pm departure from Inchanga. Venue: Departure from Stokers Arms, Kloof. Cost: adults R130, children R100. For more info: 031 303 3003 or visit umgenisteamrailway.co.za

Valley of the Waves wild summer Whether it’s lazing on the beach, enjoying the adrenaline rush of the water rides or participating in the daily games, there’s sure to be fun in the sun for everyone.

Ends 3 January. Time: 9am–6pm. Venue: Valley of the Waves, Sun City. Cost: R200, includes all entry fees and a meal voucher. Contact Valria: 072 626 4042 or email events2@telkomsa.net

13 december Family fly-fishing and wellness package. Escape to the Magaliesberg for a family adventure. The boys can fly-fish while the girls enjoy a 30-minute pamper session. Time: subject to booking. Venue: Magalies Barbus Haven, Magaliesberg area. Cost: adults R250, children R100 (fishing) and R300 for wellness treatment.

Contact Wayne: 011 315 4503, email sundown@iafrica.com or visit sundowner.co.za French market Delight in all things French from baguettes and cheese to flowers, linen and French books. Enjoy the sounds of the resident Marche accordionist while you shop and relax

at this unusual market. Time: every Sunday 9am–2pm. Venue: Morningside Shopping Centre, Rivonia Rd, Morningside. Cost: free. For more info: visit morningsideshops.co.za

20 december Moyo Zoo Lake Children can play, create, learn African dances and traditional African games, listen to stories and make things while you enjoy yourself at the restaurant. Time: 10:30am–3:30pm (Saturday and Sunday). Venue: Zoo Lake, 1 Prince of Wales Dr, Parkview.

Cost: free workshops. For more info: 011 646 0058

25 december Christmas day cruise – Christmas with a difference. Enjoy a threehour cruise on the Vaal, a traditional Christmas buffet is served and live entertainment adds to the festivities.

Time: noon–3pm. Venue: departs from Emerald Casino, Vanderbijlpark. Cost: adults R320, children R160. Booking essential. For more info: 016 982 3411, email info@liquidlounge.co.za or visit liquidlounge.co.za

Cape Town’s

it’s party time

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

75

it’s

partytime continued...

76

December 2009/January 2010

Cape Town’s

Cape Town’s

December 2009/January 2010

77

last laugh

show time, folks!

SAM WILSON reckons it’s a good idea to examine your children’s school – not by perusing its exam results, but by going to the school play.

i

don’t know about you, but I’d much rather my children grow up to be wellrounded, happy and responsible than be able to ace the odd exam. Look around you – who are the grown-ups that you respect most? The single-minded careeronly folk, or those who are managing to get a lot of energy and passion into their jobs and their families, simply by being comfortable in themselves?

Bit of a no-brainer, isn’t it?

The problem with this view is that it makes it very hard to evaluate schools. It’s easy to count up distinctions, but not so easy to find out if a school is a nice place.

Unless, of course, you go to one of its concerts. Because, readers, that’s where the soul of a school hangs out.

Nifty idea, nê? I think so. I’ve even come up with a bit of a checklist for you…

First, consider the play itself. Are nineyear-olds doing a Junior? Not good. Are

78

December 2009/January 2010

horrified teenage boys prancing around as the brothers Von Trapp? Ouch. Is a government school presenting Godspell?

Not necessarily the most tolerant of institutions.

I personally prefer a home-written romp derived from something more classical perhaps, which allows the children to let their hair down, and laugh at jokes they’ve made themselves. And sing. Singing’s important. Even if it’s bad.

Next up, count the actors on stage.

If there are only four or five presenting an Athol Fugard play, chances are the school is more interested in showcasing its “stars” rather than confidence boosting and giving the average child a chance to try something new. Are there a whole bunch of miserable, fidgeting three-yearolds in a corner, forced to stay on the stage for hours after their song while their older school mates present The Wind in

the Willows? Not very thoughtful teachers.

And so on.

Then there’s the costume issue. Has your child come home with a slip which says: “Kindly provide R450 to cover the cost of your daughter’s elephant costume?”

Or have you been told: “Your child is going to be a lion. Dress her in yellow, and we’ll be making manes in class.” I know which school I’d choose.

And then to quote The Big Lebowski, there’s “the vibe of the thing”. I’ve been to school concerts so slick, you can hear the children’s fear at getting anything wrong.

(Oh, that’s another tell… if your child looks in terror at her teacher when she fluffs her lines, be concerned.)

I’ve been to others so interminably long and seemingly plotless, that even older children doze off at the edges. I’ve seen anxious children in costumes fit for the West End, and I have seen children busting

with pride out of a hodge-podge of Mom’s old feather boas.

I’ve also seen happy explosions of applause when favourite teachers step on stage for a bow, a kind little elbow nudge to get a child’s finger out of his nose, the special glow when a child realises he’s relaxed and enjoying being on stage (“Hey Mom! I’m good at this!”) and heard the collective squeal of relief and excitement when the musty curtains finally close.

Perhaps I am biased, because I already love the school my sons attend, but each year when the school puts on a massively energetic and colourful concert of happy children bounding about in assorted costumes, I think to myself, “Yay! This school has its heart in the right place.”

Happy concert season, folks. And we’ll see you back at the grind next year.

Sam is the editor in chief of health24.com, parent24.com and women24.com

Cape Town’s

PHOTOGRAPH: TAMMY GARDNER

Benj, Sam and Joe