Child Magazine | Cape Town Dec 2010 / Jan 2011

C a p e

To w n ’ s

b e s t

g u i d e

f o r

pa r e n t s

birds & bees help, it’s time for that talk

what’s cooking? four lunch recipes to inspire the little chef in your life

furry friends

a match made in heaven, or not...

happy

www.childmag.co.za

Dec 2010 / Jan 2011

free

holidays

135

health

exciting things to do this school break

education

+15

ideas for family fun

entertainment

For the first time in seven years we’ll be celebrating Christmas at home.

As family descends on us from all four corners of the earth, my instinct will be to go into a festive frenzy.

But the whole point of not going away is to give the children a good dose of family fun, without any of the rat-race routine.

One of my fondest childhood memories is of Christmas Eve, when we as a family celebrated together, leaving Christmas Day for the more serious, religious ceremonies.

I loved Christmas Eve. My brother and I would decorate the tree. I’d set the table, pick the flowers and personalise the crackers – all the while longing to unwrap the presents lying under the tree. My gran was always on top form; she had a way of spinning her spoon on the table so as to nominate one of us to tell the rest of the family a joke. Sometimes her spoon would catapult across the table. For a strict Presbyterian family, this was raucous behaviour – and we loved it. After dinner my dad would hand out the gifts. I remember every one being really happy and the food being amazing, yet no-one stressed about any of it – ever.

That is what I want this Christmas to be like. So, I am going to do my best not to stress about preparing or presenting things perfectly, but instead make sure I take time just to be. Let the children decorate the tree “badly”, let them set the table “incorrectly”, let them just be! And hopefully they too will look back and remember this Christmas with a smile that lingers…

Wishing you all a truly fun and peaceful festive season.

EDGARS

Hunter House PUB L IS H ING

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

Editorial Managing Editor Marina Zietsman • marina@childmag.co.za Features Editor Elaine Eksteen • elaine@childmag.co.za Resource Editor Lucille Kemp • lucille@childmag.co.za

monthly circulation Cape Town’s Child magazineTM 45 153 Joburg’s Child magazineTM 52 666 Durban’s Child magazineTM 40 792

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

Copy Editor Debbie Hathway

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

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

PUBLISHER’S PHOTOGRAPH: Brooke Fasani

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

magazine cape town

All our magazines are printed on recycled paper.

Free requested Jul 10 – Sep 10

Cape Town’s Child magazineTM 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 Child magazineTM. We welcome submissions but retain the unrestricted right to change any received copy. We are under no obligation to return unsolicited copy. The magazine, or part thereof, may not be reproduced or adapted without the prior written permission of the publisher. We take care to ensure our articles are accurate and balanced but cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage that may arise from reading them.

December 2010 / January 2011

contents

december 2010 / january 2011 upfront 3

a note from lisa

6

ver to you o readers respond

36

12 r eader’s blog Samantha Summerfield on her baby girl’s taste-testing escapades 16 reader’s blog

some surprises pregnancy dealt an

unsuspecting Tracey Michel

health

13 s unshine blues Tamlyn Vincent on sun protection

features 18 t antrum taming Tracy Ellis gives tips on managing children’s strops

15 s top the car!

Chareen Boake looks at motion sickness

22 h oliday heaven Donna Cobban takes her toddler on an unforgettable trip to France

17 t ooth-side seats Elaine Eksteen asks for ideas for upping the popularity of tooth-brushing time

26 p et prep what to weigh up before buying the family a furry friend. By Lucille Kemp

regulars

26

10 wins 14 u pfront with paul Paul Kerton would love to know if being “normal” is an advantage 35 r esource your first-aid kit check list.

By Tamlyn Vincent

30 f un, fun, fun...

Elaine Eksteen gives ideas for memory-making holiday activities 32 precious cargo

uckle up your children! Marina b Zietsman explains why 36 l et’s talk about sex, baby Christina Castle gives advice on the time to have “that talk”

46 r esource five day trips close to your city.

By Lucille Kemp

48 a good read new books for the whole family 54 w hat’s on in december and january 74 l ast laugh sometimes Sam Wilson’s sons are her conscience

38 what’s for lunch?

fun recipes children can make from

Katy Ashworth’s book I Can Cook 42 m xit for dummies Marc de Chazal explains teenagers’ favourite instant text messaging tool

classified ads 64 family marketplace 71 it’s party time

this month’s cover images are supplied by:

thinkstockphotos.com

December 2010 / January 2011

thinkstockphotos.com

thinkstockphotos.com

magazine cape town

magazine cape town

December 2010 / January 2011

letters

over to you

buddy stole our hearts

great magazine

Congratulations on the new addition to your household, Lisa [Mc Namara, publisher]. My husband is a dog-lover, and my six-year-old daughter has inherited this passion from him. We have been doing a lot of research to find the best dog for her – a dog that is good with children and has the right temperament. We have finally decided on a Beagle. She saw the picture of Buddy in your October issue and is very excited about getting one of her own.

Rajashree

Thank you for the best parent-help magazine around.

You cover everything from health to parties and add a bit of humour to keep it all together and sane. It is much appreciated. I cannot wait to receive my copy to see what is new or interesting each month – even though it’s sometimes difficult to find some magazine-me time.

Belinda

December 2010 / January 2011

I would like to say thank you for this wonderful magazine. It has a little of everything in it and I learn so much from reading the articles. The ladies at work remind me to bring the magazine to the office once I’m done with it.

S. Waggie

full of ideas I received a call from one of the Acres of

I am granny to five grandchildren and they are like jewels: the best gifts we have ever been given. Two of the little ones, who live in Portugal, both suffer from eczema. I was delighted when I saw your magazine for the first time and what a pleasure to read “the itch you can’t scratch”, the article on this skin disease in your August issue. I am sending this magazine to my daughter-in-law in Portugal.

I have been wanting to get involved in charities for a while, and then saw your September issue with its pages and pages of suggestions, with loads of information and a variety of places that need help.

I now look out for your magazine every month.

Lea Pitout

Love volunteers today to say how great Child magazine is. She takes one of our homes on an outing every weekend. The usual movies, zoo, ice cream options were becoming a bit boring and she is now excited about getting new ideas from your magazine.

At present, we have around 150 children in our care and are constantly on the lookout for things for the children to do. We will also be drafting the December holiday programme shortly and will definitely consult your magazine.

David Potter

magazine cape town

healthy eating

i’m a winner

Today I read an article on a well-known talk show host who has found novel ways of getting her children to eat their veggies. One of her tips involved pureeing them (the vegetables, not the children) and freezing the purée in little, neatly labelled plastic packets. The packages can then be defrosted as needed and combined with nursery favourites like macaroni and cheese or lasagne, and the little ones will not know that they are eating healthy veggies.

Interestingly, I have a child whose eyesight has remarkably improved due to all the hidden carrots she’s consumed. Gimlet-eyed, from as far away as the next room, she can spy any carrot-containing dish. As can she spot anything green or leafy or bean shaped. I have tried cutting up raw cucumber and cauliflower into attractive little strips with a central dip, making vegetable kebabs on mini cocktail sticks, arranging them in motifs, disguising them in soups and stews and sauces. Even these are greeted with: “I don’t like that!” or “Yuck, what’s that green stuff?” or even “Taryn’s mom doesn’t make her eat that!”, accompanied by a toss of the head and a look as if I had just offered her the contents of the compost bin. We do, however, fare better with fruit.

There is, of course, the option of ingesting our vitamins in the form of little tablets shaped like animals.

However, I recently read another article stating that some vitamin tablets pass directly from the shelf, through the wallet and the “plumbing system” without the decency to enrich our digestive systems on the way.

I suppose it’s back to the veggie disguises then. Either that or I have to stop reading articles on healthy eating.

Worried Mom

Thank you so much for a wonderful magazine, I really look forward to the recipes and activities or crafts to make with my toddler – we have great fun with the ideas.

Also a huge thank you for my Toddler Sense prize.

Olivia Schroeder

magazine cape town

I just received the October issue of Child magazine and see I am one of the winners in the My File About Me competition. Hooray! I’ve never won anything in my life,

and am very excited. I love your magazine so much – I don’t even share it with my husband until I’ve read it about three times, just to make sure I don’t miss anything.

Kavita Jana My husband, son and I have just spent a wonderful weekend at Aquila Private Game Reserve. I entered the Cape Town’s Child/Aquila competition earlier this year and was thrilled to win an overnight stay. I can highly recommend it. We saw buffalo, giraffe, elephant,

montessori schools explained We received a number of calls from people who felt our coverage of Montessori schools in the resource entitled “education matters” in our August issue was incorrect. In response to their comments we asked the South African Montessori Association to give us some insight into the two areas about which readers expressed concern. Here’s what they had to say…

Sometimes the word “holistic” is taken out of context when referring to Montessori schools. Our approach is to acknowledge the whole child and to provide an environment that meets the needs of the child on a physical, emotional, social, intellectual and spiritual level.

With regard to your point about children struggling when they leave a Montessori environment and enter a traditional school, I think that it is fair to say that some children do take time to adjust to their

new surroundings. This is also true for children coming into Montessori from traditional schools, and also applies to children moving between different traditional settings. Changes to children’s routine and the new personalities they encounter, in adults and their new peers, all play a role in the child’s adjustment process. Some children are more cautious and accept the challenges of change less easily than others. The Montessori approach of preparing children for life means that we strive to give children the ability to build self-confidence and self-worth alongside the academic learning that occurs on a daily basis. In my experience, most children who move from Montessori into traditional schools do so with little trauma and are often eager to rise to the new challenges presented to them.

Heidi van Staden President South African Montessori Association

December 2010 / January 2011

letters

cheetah, springbok, crocodile, zebra, warthog, wildebeest, eland, rhino, hippo, lion and a leopard. Our game ranger, Tammy, was brilliant.

I would like to say a big thank you to everyone at Aquila for making us feel so welcome and thank you for running the competition.

Jemima Madsen

praise for parents that adopt I have never been moved to write to a magazine before, but Donna Cobban’s article on cross-racial adoption in the October issue has changed that. How sad that some people cannot accept that those parents have done a wonderful thing. They have given their children a chance in life that they would not otherwise have had. Those children are truly wanted, and will most likely grow up far more broad-minded and accepting of others than most of us.

When we were trying to have children (we have been blessed with a son since then), we also considered adoption. Given our country’s demographics, chances are we also would have adopted a child from a different race. And we would have loved that child more than anything – as one of the parents in the article says: “Our children choose us.”

Thank you for a powerful, moving article. Who knows, perhaps we will also take that brave and wonderful step of adopting. And perhaps, by then, it will be viewed as the beautiful and natural thing it is: caring for and nurturing a child.

Lineke Haydock

December 2010 / January 2011

I’m writing in response to the article on adoption.

Though I did not adopt cross-racially, I face almost the same intrusions as those parents and have chosen to set limits.

I had just started my career and was in a rocky one-year-old relationship, when my boyfriend received a call to collect his three-month-old baby girl. His alcoholic ex-girlfriend had been arrested and had left the baby with friends.

My boyfriend did not want the responsibility of fatherhood and asked me to help him find a family who could raise the child. I decided to take the baby. My family and friends believed it was the worst mistake of my life. I did not budge and for two years the father visited us on occasion, and gave financial support.

During that time, when friends and family questioned me about the “real” mother’s whereabouts and on my relationship with the father, I refused to discuss the situation and only responded to normal questions about raising a daughter. Eventually, her dad decided to shape up and we got married – and had two more children.

When my youngest was eight months old, we adopted a baby boy. My sister-in-law had fallen pregnant and wanted to give the baby up for adoption.

My husband’s family wanted nothing to do with the child – they felt the mom would bring shame on the family. We took in the baby when he was four months old and have adopted him legally. Having two babies in the house, with no support from family, was not easy. Now, a mother of four, I cannot describe my

immense joy. My children are all under 10 and two of them still don’t know they are adopted. We will decide in time when to tell them.

People continue to try and quiz me about their birth mothers, and I find it offensive. My children only know me as their mother, and I think the questions undermine me as a mom. The birth moms have never shown any interest in their children and that is their loss.

People can be insensitive, asking me personal questions in front of my adoptive daughter, but I tell them straight away that the topic is not up for discussion.

Anonymous

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.

magazine cape town

magazine cape town

December 2010 / January 2011

wins

giveaways

in december & january

favourite flavours Ceres brings you 100 percent pure fruit juice that’s perfect for your whole family. It’s a smart beverage option for children as it contains no preservatives, colourants or added sugar.

Ceres Fruit Juices are packaged in low-carbon-footprint Tetra Pak cartons that protect the juice and its nutrients from light, oxygen and micro-organisms, ensuring a longer shelf life.

Five readers of Cape Town’s Child will each win a Ceres Fruit Juices hamper worth R400. Each hamper contains a Ceres picnic backpack and a variety of family-size fruit juices, including the 200ml packs, perfect for children’s lunch boxes. To enter, email your details to win@childmag.co.za with “Ceres CT Win” in the subject line or post your entry to Ceres CT Win, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010 before 31 January 2011. Only one entry per reader.

10

December 2010 / January 2011

winning start Nestlé has introduced four new variants to its Nestum Infant Cereals range: Stage 2 Happy Dreams Chamomile and Happy Dreams Carrot & Orange Blossom, and Stage 3 Strawberry & Banana and Spinach & Carrot. The new Nestlé Nestum range contains probiotics plus iron, zinc, and vitamin A and C, for a strong immune system.

Two readers of Cape Town’s Child stand a chance to win a Nestlé Nestum hamper valued at R1 200, which includes Stage 2 and 3 products, a Nestlé singalong DVD, a digital thermometer and a children’s book. Simply name one new variant of Nestlé Nestum and email your answer and details to win@childmag.co.za with “Nestlé CT Win” in the subject line or post your entry to Nestlé CT Win, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010 before 31 January 2011. Only one entry per reader.

magazine cape town

sleepover solution Need an extra bed for sleepovers? Cleverly designed, the Bloc is an ottoman and bed – simply zip off the cover and it folds out to become a bed. In the daytime, zip the cover back on and the Bloc looks right at home in your living room. Use it as extra seating or add a Bloc top and it becomes a table. Blocs are light and easy to move from room to room and come in two sizes, Liten (children to teens) is the ultimate space saver and Stor (children to adults) folds out to a full size single bed. There are plenty of colour and texture options for the fabric cover, and the Vitafoam inner provides support for a comfortable night’s sleep. Blocs are for sale from R999. For more info, store locations or online shopping visit blocshop.co.za One reader of Cape Town’s Child stands a chance to win a Bloc Liten covered in Hertex Accord, plus a 100 percent cotton fitted sheet, valued at R1 759. To enter, email info@blocshop.co.za with “CT Child Win” in the subject line before 31 January 2011. Only one entry per reader.

premium performance

congratulations to our October winners

The team at Huggies is always working on ways to make your life easier. They understand that, like your own underwear, your baby’s nappy shouldn’t be shaped the same at the back and front. The new Huggies Gold nappy is asymmetrical to avoid bulkiness and chafing between your baby’s legs, plus it has body-contoured double-leg elastic and shaped tapes for an overall better fit.

Three readers of Cape Town’s Child stand a chance to win a three-month supply of Huggies Gold valued at R1 650. To enter, email your details to win@childmag.co.za with “Huggies Gold CT Win” in the subject line or post your entry to Huggies Gold CT Win, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010 before 31 January 2011. Only one entry per reader.

Lee-Anne Dromgoole, Johan du Plessis, Nonkosinathi Nikani, Yoliswa Nyewe and Saadieyah Samaai who each win MooMoo products; Bonnie Clementson, Sue Reuther, Berrenice de Hahn, Carmelita Wegewarth, Arlene Titus, Inge du Plessis, Steven Bosch, Ronelle Meyer, Susy de Mendonca and Fazlin Ajam who each win a Nazo hamper; Thabile Mbatha who wins a Spin Pram from Woolworths; Vuyiseka Siwundla, Carmen Swart, Angela Jack, Sharon Zuweni and Stefan Milandri who each win a voucher from Annabella Maternity; Rene Bowker, Yoliswa Nyewe, Natalia Brown and Marike Wannenburgh who each win a Protect-A-Bed family pack.

magazine cape town

December 2010 / January 2011

11

blog

insects, yum!

A normally laid-back mom gets into a bit of a flap over one of her

have never experienced anything quite like my 10-month-old daughter’s dogmatic approach to tasting everything that her eyes can see and her hands can grasp.

I have found her with all sorts of tasty morsels in her mouth, from the foam letters of her play mat to the edge of the bedroom carpet. Most recently, she has absurdly taken to licking the washing machine door and jumping up and down when it spins!

I don’t worry too much about what she discovers, as I believe it is part of her learning and development. However, I do get down onto the floor with her to make sure she doesn’t find things that are unsafe. I’ll crawl behind her, sit with her and watch how intently she examines things. In doing so, I get the privilege of seeing the world through the eyes of a baby.

12

December 2010 / January 2011

It astounds me how she is able to look at something as mundane as a piece of string as if it is the most exciting and intriguing object she has ever seen. You can almost hear her assessing her find: Do I eat it? Do I put it over my head? Do I shake it up and down? Wait, I’ll do what I always do – I’ll eat it.

It’s her incessant taste testing that managed to get the ordinarily laid-back me into a bit of a flap last night…

When I was younger I was fearless.

Except for my phobia of moths, that is.

Somewhere along the way I seem to have picked up a few more unwarranted fears – creepy crawlies, dust balls and creatures that go crunch when you stand on them can send me into a flat spin, but motherhood is forcing me to face some of these phobias.

On this occasion, the three of us were in the kitchen – Dad and I were preparing

dinner – when we realised she was quiet enough to have found something extremely fascinating. I bent down to take the object out of her mouth and, to my absolute horror, discovered the wing of a moth in her one hand, and the rest of the poor creature halfway out of her very pleased little mouth!

I fought off the nausea as I extracted the bits of dead insect from her mouth, while she protested about us taking away her grand find.

Even though there are moments that make me want to regurgitate last night’s dinner, I feel privileged to experience her journey of discovery. I look forward to watching her as she learns and grows in the months and years to come. As scary as it is that all this happens so fast, truth be told, I will be grateful for the time when the fishmoths that sometimes creep in the cupboard are no longer automatically placed in her mouth.

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

magazine cape town

ILLUSTRATION: SAMANTHA SUMMERFIELD

daughter’s recent taste tests. By SAMANTHA SUMMERFIELD

health

sunshine blues How can parents protect children from sunburn?

TAMLYN VINCENT investigates.

PHOTOGRAPH: THINKSTOCKPHOTOS.COM

ummer days are often about sitting outside at the pool, playing on the beach or enjoying a braai.

But spending too much time in the sun can be dangerous, particularly for babies and toddlers.

Sun damage to young children has a permanent carcinogenic effect, says Johannesburg-based GP Dr Paula Smart.

This usually manifests later on in life as skin cancer, she says. “If a baby burns badly that damage is done, you can’t undo it,” says Smart. Most sun exposure happens in the first 15 to 18 years of our lives, and several bad burns significantly increase the risk of skin cancer. Toddlers and babies are also at greater risk as they have more sensitive skin and burn more easily.

There are, however, a number of precautions parents can take. Dr Marc Röscher, medical director of the Skin Centre in Umhlanga, says a sunblock with zinc and titanium dioxide is ideal for babies and toddlers. “It provides excellent sun protection and, in addition, is safe if ingested. Furthermore, due to babies having a large skin-surface-to-mass ratio, systemic absorption is not an issue.”

Sunblock should be applied every two hours throughout the day, and more often if children are swimming as it comes off in water, or gets rubbed off by towel drying. If children are near water, sand or concrete, the reflection can also cause burning.

But don’t get complacent during winter or on cloudy days as the sun can be harmful then too. So, “put cream on straight away in the morning,” says Smart, who also suggests choosing a hypoallergenic sunblock with an SPF factor based on skin type and the environment. Experts recommend using an SPF of between 20 and 50, but no higher, as this offers only marginally more protection and creates a false sense of security in the sun. magazine cape town

“Physical protection from the sun with clothing remains necessary,” says Röscher. He points out that rash vests are a good swimwear choice as they have “excellent safety profiles” when it comes to swimming and playing in water.

Also recommended by Smart is swimwear with a high Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), the protection offered by clothing against ultraviolet rays. Clothes that are darker and more tightly woven offer a higher UPF. Clothes that are wet or tightly stretched over the body, offer a lower UPF. Swimming in an ordinary white T-shirt, for example, provides very little protection.

Children should be wearing swimsuits that cover the top and the bottom, and that have a UPF of at least 50. When not swimming children should also be wearing hats with broad brims; peaks may cover the face but leave the neck and ears exposed.

tips for sun safety • Keep children hydrated by getting them to drink lots of water.

• Keep sunblock and a hat in children’s school bags, for when they play outside at school.

• Keep out of the sun between 10am and 3pm, when the sun is at its hottest.

• Sunblock should not be used on babies younger than six months old, who should be kept out of direct sun altogether.

• Keep in the shade as much as possible. If you’re at the beach or on the lawn next to a pool, sit in the shade of a sun umbrella or beach cabana.

• Track moles and freckles by photographing them regularly. If they change shape, size or colour have them checked by a doctor.

December 2010 / January 2011

13

upfront with paul

t

here is one word that figures in many conversations and observations about our children that, I feel, is completely overused when describing their development or behaviour, and that word is “normal”.

“Normal” literally trips off the tongues of parents, educators, specialists, nurses and sundry child experts. As in: “normal” development, “normal” eating habits, “normal” growth, “normal” behaviour. But what is normal? Normal usually pertains to an average. So, does that mean above normal is above average and below normal, below average? Who wants to be average?

I never wanted to be normal and I’ve always thought that was a good thing. While the defined opposite of normal is “abnormal”, which sounds negative and derogatory, you can also define the opposite as “special”, which is very positive. And who doesn’t want to feel special?

It begins with the percentile chart you are given as a parent when your baby

14

December 2010 / January 2011

overused when talking about our offspring.

first goes to the clinic to be weighed. Woe betide any baby that veers to the left or right of that curve. An errant deviation either way and the nurse sucks air rapidly through her teeth before making her expert assessment: this is not normal. “Baby’s not getting enough milk. Maybe the dairy has dried up”, she squeaks, or, if baby has chubby chops: “Baby’s getting far too much milk.”

Every school has its own “norm” and one school’s A-plus is another school’s C-minus. “Normal” at highly academic schools is way above real normal, so be careful what you wish for. A child struggling at one school could feasibly be a complete hero at another.

When I was at school we even had a phrase: “act normal” that we would hurriedly whisper to each other when a teacher entered a room, parents arrived, or a policeman walked by, and, in severe circumstances, when a group of skinheads

in bovver boots rounded the corner. We’d shout “act normal” to each other, which, in effect, was the signal to stop being our usual lunatic selves, and start behaving in the measured way that was expected of us, that is “normal”.

There is a stage in everybody’s lives when the clamour to rebel against being normal is intense, and outward signs smack of abnormality, but these are passing phases dismissed unceremoniously as an ego thing, attention seeking or wanting to cut away from the herd. It’s at about age 15 or 16 years and onwards when this really kicks in – the age of individualism – and your darling, wouldn’t-say-boo daughter dyes her hair blue, starts dressing like a Goth, gets a huge ring through her nose and comes home with a hideous vampire tattoo across her buttocks. Parents cringe and secretly ask: “Where did we go wrong?”, before drowning themselves in G&T, when a better response would be: “Wow darling,

Paul, Sabina and Saskia

you look fabulous. Great tattoo. Shall we get Daddy one for his birthday?”

Just relax and stop beating yourself up over it. This is just normal.

Paul Kerton is the author of Fab Dad: A Man’s Guide to Fathering.

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPH: JILL BADER

act normal

PAUL KERTON on a word he feels is entirely

health

stop the car!

a

CHAREEN BOAKE finds out about motion sickness.

family holiday is a very exciting event, but getting to your destination can be frustrating, especially if a passenger suffers from motion sickness.

It’s not certain why some people suffer from motion sickness (also called travel sickness) while others don’t, but many experts believe it happens when the brain is confused by conflicting messages that it’s receiving from the body’s motion sensors.

The brain accumulates information from the eyes, skin, inner ear and muscles and if this information doesn’t agree, it results in motion sickness. If you are reading in a moving car, for example, your eyes are focused on a set position and the brain assumes you’re sitting still. However, the delicate sensors in your inner ear will be picking up changes in balance as you move to and fro with the movement of the car. This discrepancy affects the body’s equilibrium causing the common symptoms of motion sickness: cold sweats, fatigue, dizziness, headaches and nausea. Certain computer and virtual simulation games can also cause motion sickness.

According to Johannesburg-based GP Dr Theo Louridas, although motion

sickness is unpleasant, it has no lasting effects. He warns that if these symptoms occur frequently and without travel, it could be indicative of more serious problems related to the cerebellum or possibly even a tumour and you should consult your doctor.

Motion sickness rarely affects infants; it is more common in toddlers and children.

Although some children do outgrow it by age 12, it often continues into adulthood.

Children are more likely to suffer from motion sickness if they’re susceptible to nausea or vomiting, or experience heightened levels of anxiety. Other triggers may include: the vehicle being poorly ventilated or too hot, or the child having their head turned to look out of the side window. Discovering whether your child suffers from motion sickness is a trial and error exercise, but there are measures that you can take to try and reduce the risk of motion sickness.

Natural remedies such as ginger help relieve nausea while certain earplugs and wristbands are said to relieve motion sickness. There are also several overthe-counter medications to treat motion sickness and nausea.

PHOTOGRAPH: THINKSTOCKPHOTOS.COM

be prepared • Car: strap your child in the middle seat (if it has an over-the-shoulder belt), encouraging them to look straight ahead rather than out of the side window.

• Plane: ask for a window seat towards the front.

• Eat frequent light, bland snacks like rice cakes or banana and avoid sugary snacks, fatty foods or dairy.

• Try to travel during children’s nap times or overnight if you’re driving.

• Cover the window beside the child to keep the sun off their bodies and reduce stress on the eyes.

• Distract children with singing or games like “I spy”. Limit reading, colouring-in and hand-held computer games.

• Plan your trip along the straightest road, preferably a freeway with fewer bumps, and stop regularly.

• Place a cool cloth on the forehead and rest the head against the seat to keep it as still as possible.

• Make sure the car is cool. Small battery-powered fans and spray bottles are useful if you don’t have air conditioning.

• Take a potty, towels or nappies to catch vomit and plastic packets to seal the soiled items; bad odours can lead to further nausea.

• Travel with spare clothes, a face cloth, wet wipes and fabric spray.

magazine cape town

December 2010 / January 2011

15

blog

someone forgot to mention...

TRACEY MICHEL discovers that pregnancy is full of surprises.

16

December 2010 / January 2011

Perhaps it’s more that you just don’t get it until it happens to you.

I was preparing myself for nausea and possible vomiting, perhaps mood swings and an ever expanding belly, but nothing prepared me for the additional surprises.

Mood swings makes them sound like a fun ride at a community carnival.

What I experienced was more akin to emotional deep-sea diving in unchartered territories... in another universe. Even a dull episode of 7de Laan made me cry!

Hormones can have a strange effect on a normally sane, rational woman (for part of the month, at least). Aside from the unexplained crying, I was on the receiving end of some amazing side effects… I got a red rash on my neck, my hair took on a coppery tinge and my calf muscles seemed to double in size. I suffered with bouts of indigestion, sciatica, insomnia, extreme exhaustion and drowsiness, heart palpitations and, towards the end, excessive drooling (apparently common)

and carpal tunnel syndrome (dead hands in the middle of the night). All in all, I made quite a pretty picture – I began to believe that the “pregnancy glow” was a myth invented by nappy companies to keep the population reproducing.

I’ve never been a worrier; I’m more the optimistic sort. But all of a sudden I was lying awake tossing and turning about what I was going to do about childcare when I went back to work; what school we should apply for (some accept applications from birth!); how I was going to keep her safe – and she hadn’t even technically entered this world yet. Would I be “a good enough mother”? Would I be able to breastfeed? Would I know what to do when she cries?

But there were other things that people had forgotten to mention: like how I love it every time the baby moves inside me – even when she seems intent on kicking out my ribs. How seeing her on the ultrasound screen fills me with

happiness and pride. I hadn’t realised I’d love the person inside me before she was even born.

And as I watch the clock waiting for her arrival (my due date now passed), I can’t help but look forward to what else I’m going to experience about being a mom that someone forgot to mention. Or, that if they had mentioned it, I probably wouldn’t have believed them. Like what it’s going to feel like to hold her in my arms for the first time.

Tracey Michel waited another four days after penning her blog before her daughter Maya was born.

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

magazine cape town

ILLUSTRATION: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN

m

y doctor had said it would probably take a year to fall pregnant. What he forgot to mention was that there’s also the possibility that even if you’ve been on the pill for over a decade, you can actually fall pregnant the first month. Now I’m not complaining. I know I am lucky.

I’ve had many friends who have tried for a year, hoping and praying every month for a baby to be conceived, only to be disappointed many times.

But this was just the first in a string of things others have forgotten to mention about pregnancy. Sure, it is different for everyone, and I do have friends who had been kind enough to tell me the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

straight up

tooth-side seats ELAINE EKSTEEN hopes to find a way to reduce the caterwauling at tooth-brushing time.

f anybody has an answer to making the brushing of teeth a fun and favoured activity, I’d pay money for the secret.

My son started brushing his teeth before he really had any. I use the word brushing very loosely; I should rather say sucking the bubble gum-flavoured toothpaste off his tiny toothbrush, and then handing it back for another blob of the pink goo.

much prefers chewing his toothbrush to poking out my tonsils with mine.

Stories of the need for general anaesthetic to sort out dentistry issues in the milk teeth of six-year-olds and the associated medical bills are quite a motivator. But, practically, how does one banish the caterwauling, get the toothbrush between those tightly clamped lips, and give those not-so-pearly whites a decent clean?

teeth preservation tactics • Start brushing your baby’s teeth at least once a day as soon as they get their first tooth; clean a toddler’s teeth twice a day.

• Try to make the brushing of teeth (a fun) part of the daily routine from as early on as possible.

• Use an age-appropriate toothbrush: a baby’s

PHOTOGRAPH: THINKSTOCKPHOTOS.COM

He much prefers chewing his toothbrush to poking out my tonsils with mine.

Perhaps that’s the problem – he’s eating the toothpaste not cleaning his teeth. Who can blame him, I guess, since it’s the closest he gets to anything tasting like sweets.

We’ve tried all sorts of tactics to take the battle out of the exercise but we haven’t won yet. Granted some strategies have worked for a while: like a toothbrushing rhyme (from DJ Opperman’s Groot Verseboek); or letting him brush my teeth while I whizz the brush across his – a tactic that had a record three-week popularity run.

But for the last months he has had a few more teeth than can be suitably polished in three seconds, and he

magazine cape town

My husband came up with a brilliant solution yesterday morning: a tooth-brushing demo. The strategy works as long as you’ve got visitors and a child keen to impress them. “Look what a clever boy he is – opening his mouth nice and wide so that Daddy can get to all his teeth and brush off the little men [aka plaque] trying to chop holes in them,” crooned Dad, sounding very impressed.

The resulting performance was fantastic – long may it last…

Anyone keen for an early morning coffee at our place?

With your cuppa you get a free ticket to the tooth-brushing demo at 8:30am.

first toothbrush should have a small head and soft bristles.

• Use only a tiny blob of low-fluoride toothpaste until adult teeth appear, and teach your child to spit out the toothpaste.

• Don’t rush to introduce your baby to fruit juice.

If you are giving your older baby or toddler fruit juice, rather dilute it.

• Avoid fizzy, sugary or acidic drinks.

• Give syrupy medication using a medicine

syringe instead of a spoon – this way you limit

the contact between the sugary syrup and your

baby’s teeth.

December 2010 / January 2011

17

parenting

tantrum taming

a

dmit it. Before you were a parent, you’d see someone else’s toddler having a tantrum and swear your child would never get away with behaviour like that! Fast forward a couple of years and it’s you in the cereal aisle, cringing with embarrassment as your own child thrashes around like a Great White in a feeding frenzy, complete with screaming and flailing of limbs, because you said no to the frosted cornflakes. And you wonder just how you got into this predicament – while other future parents stare on in horror making their own silent vows.

I’ll admit it: that was me. I knew exactly how to handle a tantrum until the day I actually had to deal with one. My

18

December 2010 / January 2011

reaction was rather cowardly: I picked up my toddler and bolted out of the store before I could hear the first tsk-tsk.

I don’t think I shopped there for the next six months.

perfectly normal While tantrums, especially public ones, can cause embarrassment for parents, experts agree that they are a normal part of childhood development and, while the behaviour associated with tantrums is negative, children who throw tantrums should not be labelled as “bad” or “naughty”.

Durban-based counselling psychologist Deborah Hulme explains, “Tantrums are largely a result of children testing the limits parents set for them. As children mature, starting

around the age of two, they begin to develop a sense of self that is distinct from, or separate to, that of their parents.

The toddler, equipped with increasingly well-developed skills begins to explore his world and assert his will. This frequently clashes with the parent’s will and so the stage is set for conflict, which often escalates into tantrum behaviour.”

Tantrums appear to be more common in the early years when toddlers have trouble communicating their feelings and frustrations. When coupled with their emerging sense of self, this may be all that is needed to produce a mini meltdown. A simple exercise for a toddler, like putting on her socks or brushing her hair, can end up in a full-blown tantrum when she becomes overwhelmed by the task at

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPHS: THINKSTOCKPHOTOS.COM

TRACY ELLIS gives tips for managing the strops and toy-out-of-cot episodes of our children.

It’s you in the cereal aisle, cringing with embarrassment as your own child thrashes around like a Great White in a feeding frenzy. hand and doesn’t know how to express her frustration or ask for help. A parent attempting to intervene or trying to hurry her easily aggravates the situation, and before you know it, you are caught in an emotional storm.

easier going Experts agree that tantrums should diminish between the ages of five and seven, when children have learnt

magazine cape town

better communication and coping skills, understand their boundaries and have a grasp of what behaviour is acceptable and appropriate for their age. Johannesburgbased educational psychologist Simona Maraschin believes that healthy peer pressure at this age can assist in discouraging tantrums. “At this age children start to use their peers as a ‘social campus’. They generally become more competitive and are using their peers as benchmarks

for their own abilities, social interactions and relationships.

Very often children are not tolerant of their peers who throw tantrums and, as a result, children who are very demanding or who do throw tantrums often struggle to make or maintain friends.”

A few years ago Vicks First Defence Nasal Spray produced a clever TV ad that appealed to every parent who has been caught off guard by a tantrum. It features a mother in a grocery store pre-empting her son’s tantrum by throwing herself on the floor and having a mommy tantrum of her own. Her son is shocked back to his senses and the advert wraps up with “attack is the best form of defence”.

They say desperate times call for desperate measures.

Laughs aside, pre-emption is a great strategy for tackling tantrums. Some experts suggest keeping a tantrum diary if your child is prone to frequent tantrums.

Making notes of the details such as when and where the tantrums occur, with whom they occur and what happens directly before and after each episode can give you clues as to why they are happening and can help you find the best way to prevent or deal with the next one.

learning to exhale Tantrums range from incessant whining, crying and shouting to kicking, screaming, stamping feet, thrashing and

December 2010 / January 2011

19

parenting

If the tantrum always happens when he is fighting with his shoelaces, maybe you should invest in shoes with Velcro straps?

even breath holding. A full-blown tantrum can be an incredibly scary experience.

Stephanie Smith, a mother of two, remembers when her 18-month-old daughter, Lily, held her breath during a tantrum. “She was sucking in huge breaths and screaming on the exhale. I think she forgot to breathe because the next thing her mouth was wide open but there was no sound coming out and she started to turn purple. Her face was frozen in mid scream, all wrinkled up, but there was no air going in or out. I was shouting ‘Lily breathe’ but she didn’t take a breath. I blew a quick sharp breath in her face and it seemed to shock her back to reality and she sucked some air. She kept crying but I think by that stage she had exhausted herself, so she calmed down to a sniffling sob. The whole episode only lasted a minute but I was really frightened.

Afterwards I did some research and found out that it’s quite common for toddlers to hold their breath during a tantrum and that they can’t really harm themselves by doing it unless they pass out and fall onto something.”

While many tantrums can be avoided (see our section on steps for avoiding tantrums), knowing how to handle a fullblown tantrum in the moment can alleviate some of the embarrassment you may naturally feel and help you regain control of the situation.

Maraschin says staying calm and ignoring the negative behaviour during the tantrum is key. She feels it’s important not to get angry, shout or attempt to discipline a child during a tantrum. She instead recommends stressing in a calm, firm voice that once they calm down, you are prepared to listen and talk to them to

20

December 2010 / January 2011

determine what is frustrating them. Allow the tantrum to run its course and never give in to their demands. Hulme agrees, “Giving in to a child who is throwing a tantrum will reinforce the negative behaviour and send the message to the child that he might have to keep up with his tantrum behaviour for a long time but, eventually, he will get what he wants.” She urges parents not to bargain or reason with a child during a tantrum.

Experts agree that for toddlers, there is usually no need for discipline following a tantrum. Refusing to give in to the child’s demands is often consequence enough and toddlers generally respond well when positive behaviour is rewarded and negative behaviour is ignored. Hulme suggests: “If standing your ground is not working, the next step would be a logical consequence connected to the behaviour.

You might say: ‘No, you may not come to the shops with Mom today as you behaved badly when we went shopping yesterday.’

Thereafter an opportunity for positive behaviour can be offered on the next shopping trip when the child is allowed to accompany her again. The overriding message to the child needs to be: ‘When you act out and behave badly, I do not want to be in your company. When you behave in a positive manner, I enjoy your company and will give you attention, listen to you and attend to your needs, but I will not give in to the issue you are having a tantrum about’.”

steps for avoiding tantrums • set firm, consistent boundaries Maraschin says, “Boundaries must be placed with a loving intent, not a punitive intent, and should never be set in anger as you will inevitably end up removing the boundary later, which defeats the purpose.” Hulme adds, “Tantrums will diminish as the child begins to recognise that the parent consistently adheres to the limits that they have set. It is therefore possible that if parents are inconsistent with their limit setting they will find themselves with a child who is continually trying to test these limits and is therefore more prone to tantrums.”

• identify triggers Keeping a tantrum diary will help to identify triggers such as exhaustion, hunger or hyperactivity. If the tantrum always happens when he is fighting with his shoelaces, maybe you should invest in shoes with Velcro straps?

• offer some choices and remove others Choices empower toddlers and help them to feel in control. But be savvy.

Asking “Do you want to wear shoes today?” magazine cape town

will set you up for a battle of wills. Rather say: “Time to put your shoes on, please.

Are you going to wear your sandals or your slops?”

• pick your battles Your three-year-old daughter wants to wear her big brother’s underpants to school. Worth fighting about? Chances are she’ll wear them for two weeks straight and then move on to the next thing.

• avoid temptation Don’t wander down the sweets and chips aisle in the supermarket if you know it is bound to end up with your toddler in tears. Keep off-limit objects, such as the TV remote, out of reach.

• stick to routines Hulme says, “Clear routines and predictable environments can assist in curbing tantrums. Tired children are unreasonable children, so don’t take your young child shopping at 4pm because the chances of a tantrum are a great deal higher in this context.”

• encourage words over actions Encouraging verbal communication in everyday situations will teach your toddler to express herself when she is frustrated and offers an alternative to throwing a fit.

“Teaching your children to negotiate their needs will serve them well, especially in their teenage years,” says Maraschin.

• practise distraction Toddlers are easily distracted. If you need to take your cellphone away from your toddler, replace it with a book or toy. “If your child is starting to get agitated, distract him before the tantrum begins,” says Hulme.

• give fair warning Letting them know they have five minutes left to play before they need to pack away, prepares them for the announcement and lessens potential conflict.

• seek help If the frequency of tantrums becomes unmanageable even after boundaries have been put in place, or if the intensity of tantrums is more than you can cope with, seek advice from a medical professional.

magazine cape town

teenager in a strop “While tantrums are associated predominantly with younger children there may be a resurgence during adolescence when boundaries and limits are renegotiated,” says Durban-based counselling psychologist Deborah Hulme. A teenage tantrum may include pouting, sulking, whining, ignoring parents, slamming doors, shouting, saying hurtful things such as “I hate you”, using bad language and emotional manipulation by refusing to eat or threatening to run away.

Dealing with tantrums in teenagers, says Johannesburg-based educational psychologist Simona Maraschin, should be handled in a similar way to toddlers. Do not react to the tantrum, stay calm and let them know you are prepared to communicate and negotiate in an adult manner once they stop acting out. Be consistent with boundaries but savvy to emotional manipulation.

Unlike toddlers, tantrums in teenagers call for discipline and consequence. Experts suggest that privilege removal in addition to not giving in to the tantrum should suffice in curbing teenage tantrums, however, they stress that open communication is vital in this phase. Hulme says, “Adolescents have a strong need to be heard and parents should be careful not to be too dictatorial or dogmatic during this stage. They have to learn to adjust their parenting style as the child enters their teenage years. It is guaranteed that parents are going to have to discuss, consider and entertain requests that they would like to dismiss instinctively. The teenage mind is a great deal more advanced cognitively than that of the toddler’s, but teenagers are often quite unable to apply the logical reasoning they use for calculating mathematical problems to the emotional realm.”

December 2010 / January 2011

21

getaway

DONNA COBBAN takes her toddler across the seas for lazy summer days in the French countryside.

whole month in the South of France where my mother lives, and somewhere in the middle I would fly to the North of France to visit my son’s father’s family... The fact that all the grandparents live in France is pure luck but somewhat handy given the cost of international travel. I planned and plotted for months but as the time drew closer I wished more than anything that both the grannies lived in Potch or Polokwane, and that I would not have to undertake what seemed like a voyage of Iliadlike proportions. I had 25 kilograms of luggage and 19,9 kilograms of an often willing, sometimes not, two-year-old to coordinate. It was the first holiday ever where I started to look forward to coming home before we had even left.

22

December 2010 / January 2011

I had begun explanatory preparation tales a month in advance, explaining that we would one day spend the night sleeping on an aeroplane in order to visit the grannies. He seemed delighted; charmed almost at the idea, until that day dawned and we reached the check-in counter at Cape Town International where he announced that he wanted to go home. We weren’t even an hour into our two-day journey. I reeled.

But then, thankfully, he laid eyes on the plane and he jumped and jumped for joy. He ran on board as if he were charging into the ocean on a warm summer’s day.

We were momentarily blessed; he ate, drank, played a bit and then fell asleep – stretched out in idyllic slumber

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPHS: THINKSTOCKPHOTOS.COM, ILLUSTRATIONS: SAMANTHA SUMMERFIELD

holiday heaven

across his seat and mine, with his legs resting on mine. I closed one eye and kept watch with the other.

All was well, until around 2am when he awoke with a blood-curdling scream. Eye patches were thrown aside, passengers leapt up as he screamed louder still. I picked him up, his little body heavy with the weight of sleep, and fled to the back of the plane. The area was well lit, two weary cabin crew skulked about looking less than charmed to see a traumatised toddler in their midst, but it was a better environment than the eerie darkness punctuated with the flickering lights of a few laptops in which he had awoken.

He woke slowly, drank some juice, returned to his seat and nodded off again till daybreak. Sleep for me never came.

magazine cape town

living off the land A barely bearable day’s layover in Heathrow passed and then we touched down in France. Holiday heaven had arrived – rural summer life, no matter where, means no shoes, no nappies, much sunshine, paddling pools, butterflies and, in this case, fruit to pick from every passing tree or bush. We took baskets and barrows and descended upon hazelnut, plum, peach, fig and apple trees, we feasted on grapes from the nearby vines and ate blackberries from the side of the road.

Granny picked sunflowers, lavender and roses on her early morning walks, filling the house with their colour and scent.

Then, thankfully, he laid eyes on the plane and he jumped and jumped for joy. He ran on board as if he were charging into the ocean on a warm summer’s day.

December 2010 / January 2011

23

getaway

Granny picked sunflowers, lavender and roses on her early morning walks, filling the house with their colour and scent.

pillow talk Visit some of these websites for self-catering houses in rural France. Take along friends or get family to join you. When you all pitch in, the cost of accommodation becomes really reasonable. holiday-rentals.co.uk frenchconnections.co.uk gite.com

24

December 2010 / January 2011

France, and large parts of Europe are “summer family countries”. When summer descends, families often pack up and head out of the larger cities to, if they are lucky enough, a country home. Here many remain for the summer, with a working parent commuting back to work during the week. Failing this you will see grandparents with grandchildren in tow – everywhere. Fresh-produce markets are packed as families move through the heat, gathering locally grown fruit and vegetables. We’d leave “our” market each week carrying baskets laden with prunes, cranberries, strawberries, cheeses, and melons so sweet the fragrance made you swoon. Summers like this seem a just reward for the punishing winters locals have to endure.

One of our favoured activities became visiting the nearby night market (common occurrences in summer in many villages). Trestle tables covered in cotton cloth

were lined up across the village square and all around, in various shapes and sizes, were stalls selling food, wine, cold beer and good bread. We went every Wednesday and sampled things like the tomato salad – 15 variations of tomatoes drizzled with olive oil and consumed with heavenly chunks of torn up baguette, and washed down with good red wine (or water if you are a small person).

On another occasion we tried tartlettes. The amateur chef’s young daughter was sent to sit next to us to get some honest feedback – she was devastated when we spoke in English and then insisted we tell her in French what we really thought of her father’s fare. The market was filled with families, where teens, tots, parents and grandparents all sat together. My son, when he did get underfoot, was always treated with delight and on occasion lifted up, introduced to new faces and passed around – he loved every minute.

magazine cape town

We took baskets and descended upon hazelnut, plum, peach, fig and apple trees, and ate blackberries from the side of the road.

Whenever we could we loaded up the car and took baskets brimming with cheeses, bread, chilled wine and strawberries, and headed for the hills. Summer picnics in France are a popular pastime. Look for rivers, boating areas, canals and you’ll be sure to find tables, swings, shade and other families all doing the same.

Recreational biking (sans lycra) is big in France. Getting from A to B on a bike often involves stopovers at patisseries for a pain au raisin and a strong espresso – both of which I consumed along the way, as I bicycled one morning to our chosen picnic spot on the edge of the Garonne River, 40 kilometres away. There I met my parents and son, the latter had already joined forces with other children in a game of ball kicking, and my mother had a chilled glass of Rosé waiting for me. Holidays could not get better than this. So I’ve started plotting a cycling holiday for as soon as my son is old enough.

magazine cape town

air miles a few things learnt along the way • Nappies and wet wipes can be much cheaper in

• Keep children hydrated – help yourself to small

the EU and UK (chain-store brands are very good

boxed fruit juices at the back of the plane and/or

quality), so don’t take up your precious luggage

add water or juice to their water bottles from the

allocations with supplies.

passing drinks trolley.

• Take dried fruit and water to consume as the

• Baby changing tables in the toilets are only big

plane ascends and descends, as toddlers often don’t

enough for babies. If you have a toddler try

understand how to open a blocked ear with a yawn.

standing him up on the lid of the closed toilet to

• The days of quality airline entertainment packs

change his nappy.

for children seem to be over – take some pencil

• Change into pyjamas once in the departure area

crayons and age-appropriate activity books as

– not having buttons and zips when curled up in

well as a few bedtime story options and a stuffed

a ball trying to sleep makes a difference and helps

creature to love.

them tune into the concept of impending sleep.

December 2010 / January 2011

25

spotlight

pet prep Before you rush out and buy a furry friend for the family, here are some things to

ne of my most treasured pet memories was when boisterous Buster was still a pup. He was a soft ball of black and white fluff that loved to be loved – perfect for a home that enjoys family hugs. Mind you, having a bit of terrier in him, the best times for cuddling were only when he was completely exhausted.

If, on these occasions, you happened to be lying on the couch, he’d climb up and curl himself around the back of your neck, his head cosily tucked next to your face – bliss! Pets have a way of worming their

26

December 2010 / January 2011

way into our affections, and it’s these warm, fuzzy memories that often have parents of toddlers dashing off to the pet shop to find them a furry friend.

But before nostalgia grips you and you’re already in the store just about to scoop up the animal friend that tugs hardest at your, or your children’s, heart strings, you’ll need to ask yourself a few questions about your home and your family’s lifestyle.

How much space do you have inside and outside the home? If you go for

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPHS: THINKSTOCKPHOTOS.COM

o

think about. By LUCILLE KEMP

an indoor pet, will you be able to live with possible pet hair, a litter box, a chewed shoe or torn upholstery? Think hard about this one – if you have cat inclinations you probably need to budget for an indoor cat (they generally live longer and are healthier). On indoor dogs, Cape Town-based pet behaviourist Mike Wood points out, “Interestingly, there is a strong suggestion that dogs with the lowest incidence of behaviour problems are those kept in flats or apartments.”

Can you handle high maintenance?

Regular grooming is important to prevent excess shedding. Brushing your dog’s coat can take place daily (long-haired Cocker Spaniels), weekly (medium-haired Golden Retrievers) or monthly (short-haired Beagles). If you prefer an outdoor animal, do you have secure fencing and have you drafted a pick-up-the-doody roster?

Even if you’ve survived nappies, it’s worth remembering that the bigger the dog, the

magazine cape town

Not only will Jack Russell terriers gladly run circles around the house with your energetic son, but they will also dig – with or without him. bigger the poop – so it’s best if you’re not the easily offended type.

Can you live with the odd landscaping issue? Not only will Jack Russell terriers gladly run circles around the house with your energetic son, but they will also dig – with or without him. Rabbits may not be an option either, since they like to burrow.

Do you live in a flat with no outside area? A pet fish may be best as it is confined to its space or, if you love birds, perhaps parrots are an option, but then

you need to have a big enough area for them to spread and flap their wings.

Also, because parrots are intelligent, social creatures it’s recommended that you get two birds so they don’t get lonely. Surprisingly, Wood says that a Great Dane can do perfectly well in an apartment as long as he is given sufficient daily exercise and stimulation.

How much time do you have to spend with a pet? Wood cuts to the chase: “People who are very busy and will not have the time to care for their kitten or

take their puppy to socialisation classes, obedience training and for daily walks (rain or shine), provide ongoing veterinary care, environmental enrichment such as chews and daily play as well as direct attention (not just when they’re cute puppies), should rather consider getting a grown cat or a goldfish.”

Another important question is: are you active or sedentary? And, on this don’t be fooled by size – an oversized Newfoundland prefers lounging around and leisurely walks, whereas a small Jack Russell Terrier is rambunctious and best suited to farm life, according to Wood.

Do you have small children? They are entranced by animals from a very young age, and this could prompt you to want a pet that will grow up with them. But toddlers may get too rough with fragile puppies and kittens and, by the same token, adult animals may be too rough with them. If your child is younger

December 2010 / January 2011

27

spotlight

He’d climb up and curl himself around the back of your neck, his head cosily tucked next to your face – bliss! than four years, perhaps consider a lowmaintenance mini-pet protected by a cage, such as a guinea pig or hamster or a small bird like a budgie.

be in the know When it comes to South Africans and pets, dogs are by far the most popular choice, with this country in the top 10 of pet-dog populations in the world, according to the book, Top 10 of Everything 2011 (Hamlyn).

One of the most important things for families to consider when choosing a dog, however, is whether the breed has the right temperament for children. Many pet experts say there is no hard and fast rule about a dog breed’s child friendliness.

However, all dogs are divided into one of seven types of breeds and knowing your dog’s type will give you a clue as to its child friendliness. On this Wood says, “A great deal of a dog’s behaviour and temperament has to do with the original job dogs were bred to perform and the tendencies that these produce.” For example, “toy dogs” (such as Chihuahuas) are bred as very loyal companions to only one person, so out of possessiveness might snap at your toddler if she gets too close to him or the dog’s chosen family member.

There are various websites that offer great advice on the most child-friendly breeds, such as justdogbreeds.com and petsplace. co.za. For more information on the seven types of dog breeds visit helpguide.org.

Knowing the specific function for which your favoured dog was originally bred will also give you a good indication of how active they are, perhaps how noisy they are and what their favourite “hobbies” are.

If she’s a beagle, she falls into the hound category, so she likes to track (sniffing out mice, cats, other dogs, you). That means many games of hide-and-seek ahead for your child. Your spaniel is a sporting dog that loves to dash around all day, so best you too love a morning run or you’ll have a hyperactive dog on your hands.

Knowing the facts is important because a pet is a long-term commitment. Some birds such as parrots can live up to 50 years or more, a dog lives 10 to 16 years, cats can live up to 15 years or more and rabbits can live seven to 10 years.

Impulsively buying a pet as a Christmas gift is a bad idea – they’re in it for the long haul; so should you be.

where to go If you’re looking for a purebred or a “designer” mixed breed such as a Labradoodle your best bet is to go through a registered breeder. “A reputable breeder is registered with the Kennel Union of Southern Africa,” says Margie Ainscow, animal centre manager at the Cape of Good Hope SPCA. According to Ainscow, you should ensure that you meet the parents of the puppy, see their pedigree papers and the breeding facilities.

parenting a puppy Dog rearing is not what it used to be…

• Pets need attention and appropriate stimulation. Puppies and kittens need constant care. Interact and play with your pet. If they become bored they will become destructive. Buy toys. Ainscow suggests cow hooves (put peanut butter in them), or try chewing Kongs filled with food and pellets (out of their daily allowance) for keeping them out of mischief if you are out for the day.

There is debate about whether to train your pet not to dig, or whether to create a designated section of the garden or a special sandpit where they can dig – you decide.

• Don’t rub their nose in the pee. Train good habits from the start. Take them out every 45 minutes; in the mornings or after a meal. Praise what you like verbally and with treats; don’t punish.

• Don’t spank them, socialise them. From eight weeks old you can take your puppy to a puppy-training facility. Here your dog will learn how to act around other canines, and in the world around them in general.

28

December 2010 / January 2011

magazine cape town

You can also adopt an animal from one of the welfare organisations. The SPCA, for one, looks to re-home not only neglected dogs but also well-behaved dogs that have been given to them because of immigration or divorce. “If you have a hectic life, adopt an adult animal,” says Ainscow. “Dogs live an average of 16 years so if you take a dog of about two they still have many happy years ahead of them.”

One of the downsides of an adult animal, however, is that she may take a while to bond with the family and other pets. If you aren’t able to screen her properly before adoption, you might discover she has undesirable behaviour traits or there may be an existing health condition. On the upside, as the dog has

mucking in A family pet doesn’t have to be solely the parents’ responsibility. Your children can benefit from age-appropriate involvement. Here are some suggestions for helping them get involved with the family dog – and learn some valuable life skills in the process. age four • Pet the dog every day.

• Brush the dog for a few minutes with your help.

• Give the dog a treat by dropping it on the floor for him to pick up. age five • Help walk the dog by holding onto the same leash you are holding – some leashes have an extra loop.

• Give a treat with your help. Put the treat in the child’s open palm and let the dog take it gently. age six • Brush the dog with you nearby.

• Practise simple tricks with the dog like “shake hands”.

• Play ball with the dog and you.

outgrown the puppy years he will not be so needy and will have learnt to be fine with being left alone. Also, most adult dogs will have already been neutered and house trained, and will probably be used to being around other animals and people.

For most young, growing families the plea for a pet is only a matter of time. When the call does come it’s difficult to resist because the love and companionship that a pet provides lifts everyone’s mood. Also, walking and playing with your pet means that you get exercise; having an animal will build up your child’s immune system, helping to prevent allergies, and owning a pet will teach your child the all-important life skills of care and responsibility (see “mucking in” for suggestions).

• Teach your child the commands that the dog knows like “sit” and “stay”, and get her to practise them with the dog. age nine • Play games like “fetch” and hideand-seek.

• Feed the dog every day.

• Help you bath the dog.

age 10 • Wash up the dog’s dishes.

• Put out fresh water for the dog. age 11 • Practise tricks with the dog.

• Teach the dog new tricks. age 12 • Take responsibility for brushing the dog.

• Give the dog a weekly checkup.

• Let your child attend and assist you at dog obedience classes. age 13 • Attend dog obedience classes, while you observe.

• Sweep up the dog hair.

• Brush your dog’s teeth with assistance, if needed.

age seven and eight • Take a small dog for a walk in the yard. If you have a big dog, let your child walk the dog with your help.

• Play ball with the dog or your child can throw a toy for him to retrieve.

magazine cape town

age 14 • Schedule vet appointments when asked to do so. age 15 • Pick up dog poop.

December 2010 / January 2011

29

parenting

fun, fun, fun…

1. cook your way round the world There are 195 countries in the world, which means that if you choose one a week you’d only run out of options in three and three-quarter years…

We think it would be fun to put up a world map in your home and select a country each fortnight.

Nominate someone in the family to collect a handful of interesting facts and a typical dish from the chosen land and plan an evening in the style of Cuba, Cambodia, Korea, Kenya or Croatia… Why not throw in a little regional music and practise greeting each other in the appropriate language? You could put little stickers on the map once

30

December 2010 / January 2011

you’ve “visited” and see how far you get round the world. It might even spark a far-flung holiday or a string of language lessons, who knows?

2. make a couple of home movies The easiest would be just to capture the family doing what they like to do – playing with the dog, helping Mom bake brownies, bouncing on the sofa. Or you might like to come up with a list of questions and get everyone to answer them on film, as if on your very own chat show. The drama queen in the family can dress up and play the chat-show host. Questions could include: what’s the funniest thing that happened

this week? What food would you prefer to never have to eat again? If you had to spend a night in one of these places: up a ladder in a crocodile enclosure, in a bath full of cockroaches or in the shark tank at the aquarium, which would you pick – and why?

Or, if Grandpa lives in another city, you could make a special recording for his next birthday.

What does everybody love about Grandpa?

What are some of the funny or happy memories they have about doing things with him? Perhaps the children would enjoy coming up with a short variety concert especially for the birthday boy – Grandpa would certainly be tickled pink!

3. anyone for a water fight?

Next time you’re sitting inside bemoaning the fact you didn’t install aircon, why not haul out some balloons, fill them with water and have a water-bomb war in the garden? Or fetch the Slip ’n Slide from the garage and get everyone involved – no excuses Mom!

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPHS: THINKSTOCKPHOTOS.COM

ELAINE EKSTEEN gathers 10 ideas for memory-making family time this summer.

4. explore a museum The appeal of your city’s history might have worn off for you, but your offspring may just be enthralled by a tour of that museum down the road. Anyone keen on studying the skeleton of a dinosaur (Iziko South African Museum, Cape Town, 021 481 3800, iziko.org.za)? Figuring out how a hot-air balloon stays aloft (Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, Johannesburg, 011 639 8400, sci-bono.co.za)?

Or journeying into maritime history aboard a naval vessel (Port Natal Maritime Museum, Durban, 031 311 2230)?

another family if you need a few more recruits and, if it’s a hit, you could make a monthly date of it.

in at a wine farm at harvest time (some will even allow you to get involved in the barefoot pressing of grapes). Make a weekend of it – visit farmstay.co.za for a few ideas.

7. hold a cook-up or cook-off

9. toast marshmallows over a fire

Cooking together can be great fun.

How about a monthly sushi night? Or a pizza-making evening? Everyone gets to create their own dinner or try their hand at concocting a pizza (with a clever name) for the rest of the family to taste.

Another option is to turn it into a competition. Give each team (Mom and Brother versus Dad and Sister, perhaps) the same ingredients and see what meals are invented. Invite the neighbours over for lunch to taste the spoils and choose a winning dish.

8. visit a working farm 5. take family snaps Pick a spot in your home or garden and take a family photograph there each year. Choose a day you’re likely to remember and then repeat the exercise annually. It’ll be fun to compare the snaps as the years go by.

6. get sporty How about a game of rounders, volleyball, touch rugby or frisbee at your neighbourhood park or a nearby beach? You don’t have to be a terribly athletic bunch, it’s more about getting outdoors and doing something together. Invite

magazine cape town

You probably have some fond (and a few not-so-fond) memories of being sent to outdoor school camps to learn about farm life. There’s something magical about helping milk Moo-Moo the cow, or collecting freshly laid eggs from the chicken coop. Sound too sedate?

Then visit a sheep farm in lambing season or drop

There’s nothing quite like the taste of a warm, gooey marshmallow as it dissolves in your mouth. But you don’t have to wait till you’re on a camping trip. Next time you have a braai, round up the family, hand out the kebab sticks and open a bag of marshmallows. Younger children will obviously need some supervising.

10. go strawberry or litchi picking Great news for strawberry addicts: some of the yummiest summer fruit can be picked by hand on the farms where it grows. You can gather baskets of cherries in Ficksburg in the Free State (Ionia Cherry Farm, 051 933 4302, or Ficksburg Cherry Festival, 18–20 November, cherryfestival.co.za) or Ceres (Klondyke, 023 312 1521, cherryfarm.co.za); handfuls of strawberries near Hartbeespoort (Tangaroa Strawberry Farm, 012 207 1116, tangaroa.co.za) or in Stellenbosch (Mooiberge Farm, 021 881 3222); and punnets of litchis near Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal (Cane Cutters Resort, 032 947 0851). Fruit salad anyone?

December 2010 / January 2011

31

spotlight

precious cargo While buckling up is the crux of it, there are a number of other important things to know.

ccidents are measured in statistics.

During and after every school holiday newsreaders share these figures with us, and we grimly compare the latest death toll to the previous years’ – is it up or down? If someone we love is not part of the statistics, the figures are soon forgotten.

the numbers But let’s break those stats down a bit, and bring them closer to the parental home: from 1 January to 31 December 2009,

32

December 2010 / January 2011

13 768 people died on our roads. Of these, 12,05 percent were child passengers 14 years and younger – that’s 1 659 children! In fact, according to the World Health Organisation’s 2007 data on roadaccident fatalities worldwide, only Brazil, China, India, Iran, Mexico, Russia and the USA had more deaths on their roads than we did. Staggering if you keep in mind that at the time these countries’ populations ranged from 71 million to 1,3 billion, compared to South Africa’s 48 million.

the causes Excessive speed and driving under the influence of alcohol are the two main causes of road accidents in South Africa.

However, fatalities and serious injuries among children are mostly caused by young ones not being appropriately restrained.

There are no statistics available for child restraint use, but Petro Kruger, director of The Road Safety Foundation says that according to internal research done by the foundation in 2008, less than two percent

of rear-seat occupants, including children, use a seat belt. Professor Sebastian van As, head of the Trauma Unit at Red Cross Children’s Hospital in Cape Town and president of The Child Accident Prevention Foundation of Southern Africa (CAPFSA), says approximately 200 to 300 children are admitted to the hospital each year due to injuries sustained in car accidents, “and of these, 87 percent were unrestrained.

Up to 71 percent of these children were passengers in the front seat. People

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPHS: THINKSTOCKPHOTOS.COM

a

We can’t afford to be blasé about our children’s safety in our cars, says MARINA ZIETSMAN.

don’t get it – a baby has a 70 percent better chance of surviving a motor-vehicle accident if restrained and a toddler up to 54 percent. Parents go to the supermarket and buy bottles of wine, which they tuck in safely so that the bottles don’t break during the journey, but what about their children?” asks Van As. A scientific study published by the World Health Organisation, the FIA (Federation Internationale de l’Automobile), the Global Road Safety Partnership and the World Bank shows that harmful injury is the result of “energy interchange”. During a collision, this kinetic energy exchange makes it physically impossible for any occupant to securely hold an unrestrained object, such as a child.

If you are involved in a collision while travelling at just 50 kilometres per hour, a child’s weight will effectively increase 20 times, turning a 10-kilogram baby into a 200-kilogram weight within a split second.

Kruger says Newton’s law applies: “Every object in a state of uniform motion tends to remain in that state of motion, unless an external force is applied to it. This means that if the car is travelling at 100 kilometres an hour, then any object or person in the car is also going that fast until a net force (child restraint) or object (windshield, dashboard) acts to slow them down.”

magazine cape town

Parents go to the supermarket and buy bottles of wine, which they safely tuck in so that the bottles don’t break during the journey, but what about their children?

strap them in!

The world’s leading role players on child safety are the US Department of Transportation as well as the National Safe Kids Campaign in America. Their basic safety tips are also advocated by Arrive Alive in South Africa. These include: • Buckle up every time, no matter how short the trip.

• Children 12 and younger should be properly restrained in the back seat. While air bags can save adults’ lives, children sitting in the front seat can be seriously injured or killed when an air bag deploys in a crash. Even with advanced air bags

or with air bags disabled or not fitted, the back seat is safer for children. The air bags built into your dashboard on the passenger side are designed to deploy at the chest height of an average adult, and do so at more than 200 kilometres per hour. Earlier this year, 10-year-old Emmanuel Bernardo from Namibia was permanently blinded by an air bag that kicked in during a minor accident. It exploded in his face while he was seated in the front passenger seat of a BMW. Doctors say that the boy’s eyes literally ruptured on impact and that Emmanuel will not be able to see again.

• “Researchers at the University of Buffalo studied all car collisions involving a fatality in the US between 2000 and 2003,” says Kruger. “They came to the conclusion that depending on the make of the vehicle, occupants in the back seat are 59 to 86 percent safer there than in the front seat. In fact, the rear middle seat was found to be 16 percent safer than any other seat in the vehicle.”

• Never put a rear-facing child in a car’s front seat.

• Choose the right child safety seat or safety belt for your child’s size and age.

• Infants should ride in rear-facing safety

December 2010 / January 2011

33

spotlight

seats, until they are at least 12 months old and weigh at least nine kilograms.

• Children who are at least one year old, and weigh nine to 18 kilograms, should ride in a forward-facing child-safety seat on the back seat.

• Children over 18 kilograms should be correctly secured in a belt-positioning booster seat. A booster must be used on the back seat of the car only. These seats are not installed in the same way as child car seats; they instead sit on the vehicle seat and are used to properly position the adult seat belt for an older child.

A baby has a 70 percent better chance of surviving a motor vehicle accident if restrained and a toddler up to 54 percent.

• Once the vehicle safety belt fits a child, both the lap and shoulder belts should be used correctly. Vehicle seat belts are designed to fit an average-sized adult. Many children will be 12 years old before they meet these height and weight requirements.

• Your child can be moved from a booster seat to a seat belt in the back seat if your

keeping children safe along the way • Keep the interior of the car clear of loose objects such as sports equipment or groceries. In a collision these objects become missiles that could seriously injure occupants.

• When driving, don’t give toddlers or babies anything that could be a choking hazard such as biscuits or fruit.

• If a child is unhappy or crying, do not lean back to attend to him. Pay attention to your driving and stop at a safe place.

• A parent’s lap is not a safe place for a child. In the case of an accident, the

child passes the Safety Belt Fit Test (visit safekids.org for details of this test).

• Install and use all restraints according to the manufacturer’s instructions and your vehicle owner’s manual. Ensure your child safety seat has not been recalled.

In South Africa, only SABS-approved seats must be used. Kruger says there are no seat belt fitment experts in South

Africa. “The instructions for fitting the child seats are sometimes inadequate and often confusing. Parents must make sure they understand the instructions.”

• It is not ideal to buy second-hand car or booster seats, except if you are 100 percent sure of the history. Car and booster seats that have been in accidents are not acceptable.

by law The National Road Traffic Act, Act 93 of 1996, is very confusing on car restraint and allows for too many exceptions. But according to Van As the problem is not the law, but its implementation. “The law exists, but is not enforced. The bottom line is: all motor-vehicle passengers must be strapped in, each child according to their age.” Van As continues that parents might complain about the cost of these seats, “but, if you have enough money to own a car, and to put petrol in that car and drive off with your child, you can afford to invest in the proper child restraint.”

child actually acts as an air bag for the passenger holding her.

• When travelling long distances, always ensure that you stop and rest and take the child out of the child seat for at least 10 minutes every two hours.

• Children are not cargo and should never be transported on the back of a bakkie, even with a canopy.

(Courtesy: The Road Safety Foundation)

34

December 2010 / January 2011

helpful websites arrivealive.co.za childsafe.org.za roadsafetyfoundation.co.za safekids.org

magazine cape town

resource

safe and sound TAMLYN VINCENT runs through the things that should be in your first-aid kit.

e

very home should have a first-aid kit – it’s a lot easier if all the important things are kept together rather than needing to be unearthed in a panic from various corners of the house. It’s also a good idea to make it portable, so you can take the kit along with you on weekends away.

You can buy a kit, but watch out for cheap ones as they may not include quality supplies, or you can make up your own. A small toolbox or cosmetic bag will work as a holdall. Here’s what you’ll need...

PHOTOGRAPH: THINKSTOCKPHOTOS.COM

the basics • first-aid manual Equally key to having a first-aid kit in an accessible spot is knowing how to use everything in the kit, and what to do if it’s not just a minor scrape you’re dealing with. All parents would benefit from doing a first-aid course (visit childmag.co.za to find a first-aid course close to you).

for emergencies • bandages and bandage rolls (assorted sizes) for binding wounds, making a sling,

magazine cape town

using as a compress or holding a splint in place • Burnshield, Burn-Eaz or other burn ointment or dressing • cotton wool or gauze to clean cuts or wounds, stop bleeding or apply antiseptic.

Do not use to clean burns as it may stick to the injury and make things worse.

• plasters for cuts and grazes • sterile wipes to clean wounds

equipment • instant cold packs for strains, sprains and injuries to muscles. Beware of using instant cold packs on small children as they are prone to develop hypothermia and too much exposure can damage the skin.

• latex gloves • CPR mouthpiece • medicine measures or disposable syringes for administering medication • safety pins and adhesive tape • space blanket or emergency blanket for warmth, when someone goes into shock or to prevent hypothermia.

• tweezers and a pair of scissors • thermometer

medication • antihistamine – apply cream to stings or bites, or keep tablets or syrup for allergic reactions. If somebody in the family has severe allergic reactions, ask your doctor about a prepared adrenaline injection and know how to use it.

• anti-inflammatory for aching muscles or any swelling • antiseptic cream or disinfectant for cleaning or disinfecting wounds, cuts and grazes • pain tablets or syrup for headaches, pain or fever • electrolyte solution or rehydration fluids to replenish the body after a bout of vomiting and diarrhoea.

useful tips • Include waterless hand sanitizer for when you cannot wash your hands.

• Sunscreen and after-sun lotion are good to include when travelling, especially in summer.

• Laminate a card listing important numbers, such as those of your GP and paediatrician, as well as hospitals and emergency numbers near your home (or the area you will be visiting while on holiday).

• Check the dosages and contraindications on the medicines to ensure you are using them correctly.

• If you do not have a splint, fold a magazine around the injured limb and apply the bandage around this to support the limb.

• Once you have used something, or if the medicine expires, replace those items.

December 2010 / January 2011

35

parenting

Talking to our children about the birds and the bees can be daunting, but the more we are prepared for it, the easier it will be – for some.

CHRISTINA CASTLE explains.

i

’d been preparing for this conversation since the day my children were born. I knew it was going to happen, but just didn’t know when. I had rehearsed it and perfected it. My speech was clear, concise, mature, nurturing, friendly and factual. It was my hope that my

36

December 2010 / January 2011

sex,

children would one day talk of this experience as an example of how to talk to your children confidently about sex. How then, did I manage to blow it so badly?

So there we were, Dylan (age six), Alex (age three) and I, sitting in the health shop down the road sipping juice and discussing the afternoon’s plans, when Alex noticed a poster of a naked pregnant woman.

“Mommy,” he asked, “why is that mommy so fat?”

“She’s not fat, Alex. She’s pregnant. She’s got a baby in her tummy,” I said, not even registering where the conversation was going. He thought about it for a while and asked, “Mommy, why did that mommy eat the baby?”

“She didn’t eat the baby, Alex,” I chuckled – as did the waitress, who had just delivered our food.

“Then,” asked Alex, “how did the baby get in her tummy?”

baby At which point I turned the colour of the beetroot juice I was sipping, stuttered something about how much mommy and daddy love each other, knocked a toasted sandwich on the floor, paid the bill, and left.

It wasn’t supposed to be like that. It was the ideal opportunity for delivering my perfected sex monologue and I had blown it. Certainly no standing ovations deserved.

Just two confused boys, a mother in a flap and a waitress in hysterics.

So what’s the correct way to approach the subject of sex with your children? Here are a few tips…

start early Fortunately there are great books (see box) on the subject that can help you over this little hurdle – or should I say

magazine cape town

ILLUSTRATION: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN

let’s talk about

through this obstacle course. There’s actually quite a lot to talk about. And there’s really no such thing as one big sex talk; it’s an ongoing process. My boys are now 10 and 13 and we’re certainly over the “how babies are made?” stage (thanks to my very calm-talking, practical husband) and well into all the juicy bits of sex and the facts of life.

I figure we’ll be chatting about this until they leave home.

Maybe not, but you get the gist.

However, as your child grows up you need to anticipate and prepare for the next stage of development. Remember it’s not just one conversation on sex; it’s many on the facts of life: how our bodies work, how they change as we grow older, and the like. It’s up to you to decide what is age appropriate and what your child is ready to hear.

You’ll just need to be prepared for it and try to respond naturally to it.

don’t mince your words Tell it like it is – simply, sensibly and naturally. When learning about body parts, include the penis and vagina as well, using their correct names. They are just as important as the “head, shoulders, knees and toes, knees and toes. Eyes and ears, and mouth and nose. Head, shoulders, knees and toes.” I think somebody should come up with a new song…

look for the right moment Opportunities present themselves all the time. Be it a poster of a pregnant woman on the wall of a health-food shop or a pregnant aunty. Don’t be afraid to take the initiative if you believe your child is ready for this information. Perhaps try it like this: “Do you notice how Aunty Anna’s tummy is getting bigger? She’s going to have a baby and she’s carrying it inside her. Do you know how it got inside her?”

magazine cape town

That’s exactly how I should have handled the health shop debacle – but Alex noticed the poster before I did.

answer the question Younger children are more inclined to initiate a sex conversation. When they ask the question, they are looking for an answer to that question – not a flood of detailed information on other sex-related issues. It’s a lot for a little person to digest. Children are often satisfied with just that answer – that’s all they wanted to know. They may well ask another related question, but more often than not the next question will be: “What’s for lunch?.”

recommended reading For children aged 4–8 • A Kid’s First Book About Sex by Joani Blank (Down There Press) • How Babies Are Made by Andrew C. Andry and Steven Schepp (Little Brown & Company) • Let’s Talk About Sex by Robie H. Harris and Michael Emberley (Walker Books) • Let’s Talk About Where Babies Come From by Robie H. Harris (Walker Books) • Mommy Laid An Egg or Where do Babies Come

added values It’s important to share your values and beliefs with your child. They are looking to you for guidance. While the biological facts are one side of the story, they also need to understand the emotional aspects of a sexual relationship such as caring, responsibility and respect. Perhaps that’s a little too much for a three-year-old to figure out, but it certainly needs to be considered and included in the sex talks in the years ahead.

the right person for the job You may feel uncomfortable discussing sex with your child of the opposite sex. But don’t let it be an excuse to not talk about it. If you are a single parent, consider other mentors with whom your children may be able to discuss sex. If you are a two-parent household it may feel less awkward to have Dad talk to the boys and Mom to the girls. Discussions in which you can draw from experience are honest and appreciated. Do what feels right for your family. Just keep the communication open.

From? by Babette Cole (Chronicle Books) • So That’s How I Was Born! by Robert Brooks and Susan Perl (Aladdin Paperbacks) • What’s The Big Secret?: Talking About Sex with Girls and Boys by Laurie Krasny Brown and Marc Brown (Little Brown & Co) • Where Did I Come From? by Peter Mayle (Lyle Stuart) For preteens or teens • Easy Answers to Awkward Questions by Ilze van der Merwe and Nikki Bush (Metz Press) • Have you started yet? by Ruth Thomson with Chloë Thomson (Macmillan Publishers) • Living With a Willy by Nick Fisher (MacMillan Children’s Books) • Zits, Glitz & Body Bits by Jeanne Willis and Lydia Monks (Walker Books)

December 2010 / January 2011

37

book extract

what’s for

lunch?

Serves 2

frittata

Serve the frittata with cherry tomatoes for a healthy lunch. ingredients • sunflower or vegetable oil for greasing • 100g cooked potatoes • 1 spring onion • 2 asparagus spears • 2 heaped tablespoons frozen peas • 5 fresh mint leaves, torn into small pieces • 2 level tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese • 2 eggs • pinch of pepper

1

1B rush 2

3

4

5

38

December 2010 / January 2011

the inside of the ovenproof dish with the oil and put it on the baking tray.

P ut the potatoes in a greaseproof bag and use a rolling pin to bash them until they are crushed into small pieces. (If you don’t have a greaseproof bag, you can do this in a large bowl, using the end of a rolling pin to crush the potatoes.) Empty the crushed potatoes into the bowl.

T op and tail (this means snip off both ends) of the spring onion and cut it into small pieces using clean scissors. Chop up the asparagus with the scissors. Add the spring onion, asparagus, peas, mint leaves and grated Parmesan to the bowl, and stir it all together.

B reak the two eggs, one at a time, into the cup and beat lightly with a fork. Pour the beaten eggs into the mixing bowl and add a pinch of pepper. Stir until all of the ingredients are mixed together. Pour the mixture into the dish.

Y ou’ll need to ask an adult for help with this part. Place in a preheated oven at 200°C (or 180°C fan) for 15–20 minutes, or until completely set. Once the frittata has cooled down slightly, you can eat it.

3

4

magazine cape town

Need help in the kitchen? Let your little ones whip up a meal for the family. I Can Cook’s Katy Ashworth shares four lunch ideas to get you (and the children) inspired. Bon appetit!

magic mini fish cakes

Serves 2

These are nice to eat with some steamed French beans. ingredients • • • • • • •

2 stalks fresh curly parsley 105g tin pink or red salmon (boneless) 1 spring onion 1 slice day-old bread 1 rounded tablespoon tomato sauce olive oil, for brushing pinch of pepper

3

1 Line the baking tray with baking paper.

2 Put the parsley in the bowl and chop up with clean scissors.

3 Add the salmon to the parsley and mix it together with the fork.

4 Top and tail the spring onion and cut it into small pieces using clean scissors, then add it to the salmon.

5 Tear up the bread and carefully grate it into breadcrumbs. Add a tablespoon of the breadcrumbs to the salmon mixture, then a tablespoon of tomato sauce and a pinch of pepper. Divide the mixture into two parts and roll them into balls.

6 Roll

the balls in the remaining breadcrumbs until they are covered, put them on the baking tray and squash them slightly with your hands. Using the pastry brush, brush oil on top.

6

7 You’ll need to ask an adult for help with this part. Place in a preheated oven at 220°C (or 200°C fan) for 10–15 minutes. Once your magic mini fish cakes have cooled down a little, you can eat them.

Remember, when using scissors, “everyone knows, it’s best to point them at your toes”. magazine cape town

December 2010 / January 2011

39

book extract

Serves 4

boreks It’s good to eat these tasty bites with a mixed salad. ingredients • • • • • •

100g feta cheese 1 heaped teaspoon (5–10g) raisins or sultanas 20g fresh flat leaf parsley 4 sheets filo pastry 50g melted butter (ask an adult to melt it for you) pepper

3

1 Line the baking tray with baking paper.

2 Using your fingers, crumble the feta cheese into the bowl. Season with pepper. Add the raisins or sultanas and stir together with a spoon. Pinch all the long stalks off the parsley and chop the leaves with the scissors in the cup. Add the parsley to the bowl of cheese and raisins and mix them together.

3 Take one piece of filo pastry and brush some melted butter on one side and fold in half lengthways.

4

4 Put 2–3 heaped teaspoons of filling at

5

one end and start to fold in triangles (see the box), buttering the pastry as you go.

Place on the baking tray with the last fold at the bottom. Continue until all the filling is used – you should make four boreks.

Follow these steps to fold a borek

Step 1

Step 4

Step 2

Step 5

6 You’ll need to ask an adult for help with this part. Bake in a preheated oven at 200˚C (or 180˚C fan) for about 20 minutes or until crisp and golden. Once your boreks have cooled down a little, you can eat them.

40

December 2010 / January 2011

Step 3

Step 6

Step 7

6

magazine cape town

Serves 1

cheesy chicken The filled pepper half goes very well with peas. ingredients • • • • • • • •

olive oil for greasing 2 cherry tomatoes 2 fresh basil leaves 1 fresh pepper 50g cooked chicken (ask an adult to do this for you) 25g mozzarella cheese 1 level tablespoon grated cheese, such as Cheddar or Parmesan pinch of pepper

1 Line 2

3

4 5

the baking tray with baking paper and brush it with oil.

Chop up the cherry tomatoes in a bowl using clean scissors. Add the pinch of pepper, then tear up the basil and mix it all together.

“Pop” the fresh pepper by pushing in the stalk with your thumbs until you push it inside. Tear it in half with your thumbs and remove the seeds.

Place half the pepper on the prepared baking tray with the open side up so it becomes a bowl.

Tear up the chicken and half fill the pepper. Put the cherry tomato mix on top, hiding the chicken.

Squash and break up the mozzarella cheese in a separate bowl with a fork. Put the squashed mozzarella cheese on top of the tomatoes, then sprinkle the pepper and grated cheese on top.

5

3

4

6 You’ll

need to ask an adult for help with this part. Place the baking tray in a preheated oven at 200°C (or 180°C fan), for about 20 minutes, or until completely cooked through. Once the cheesy chicken has cooled down a little, you can eat it.

about the book The Cbeebies series I can cook inspires junior chefs (between the ages of three and five) to get into the kitchen and have fun cooking. I can cook, the book by Kate Morris and Sally Brown (Octopus) that accompanies the series, offers 50 recipes with the same aim as the show: getting children “understanding food, trying new ingredients” and having “fabulous fun” in the kitchen. Tips from TV host Katy Ashworth and step-by-step instructions and pictures will guide children through the recipes. Available from all good booksellers nationwide.

Katy Ashworth will be at the Good Food & Wine Show in Durban from 25 to 28 November. For more information visit gourmetsa.com

magazine cape town

December 2010 / January 2011

41

parenting

t i for X M

dummies

MARC DE CHAZAL guides parents through the online world of instant text messaging.

our teenager’s well-used cellphone is likely her preferred means of communication with friends. And the messages she types at lightning speed using a confounding abbreviated language are probably being exchanged on MXit. Like it or not, in this digital age our children will go online and they will use social media like MXit to communicate. As parents we need to understand this world because our children need help navigating it as much as they do the offline version.

But what is MXit all about, and how can we help our children use it wisely and safely?

what is MXit? MXit is an instant messaging (IM) application with over 20-million users. It was developed by a small gaming company in Stellenbosch, which experimented with a prototype in 2004 and launched MXit in 2005, letting the word spread organically.

Today you’ll be hard-pressed to find a young person with a cellphone who doesn’t use it.

MXit stands for “Message Xchange it” and is pronounced “mix it”. The application runs on cellphones allowing users to communicate cheaply in real time. This

is how it works: you connect to the MXit website and download the application free of charge onto your cellphone. With the free registration you give your date of birth and choose a username. Then you invite your friends on MXit to add you as a contact and off you go. Users need to be 13 years or older.

Its popularity lies in its interactive environment and the low costs. When chatting one on one, the service provider bills at normal GPRS/3G rates, which works out at less than one South African cent per message. By comparison, an MTN Pay As You Go cellular package will cost you about 50 cents per SMS any time of day.

MXit also has its own currency, moola, which users have to purchase in order to visit chat rooms. One moola equals one South African cent. With 200 moola (two rands) a user can send 100 messages in a chat room.

Chat rooms are designated public areas on a website where people with similar interests can chat in real time in an anonymous environment. MXit has various teen chat zones – not accessible to someone over the age of 18 unless they have fabricated their age when they

cheat sheet

PHOTOGRAPHS: THINKSTOCKPHOTOS.COM

• Get involved in your child’s social media experience early on.

• Every time users enter a chat zone they are reminded to keep all personal details private.

• Remind children to not include any information on MXit that could identify them, such as an email address, phone number, home or school address or pictures of themselves.

• MXit users can leave chat rooms at any time or simply type in the .ignore command to hide the comments of someone who is behaving inappropriately.

• Image files can only be sent one-to-one between known contacts – pictures cannot be sent in chat rooms.

• All chat zones contain profanity filters that replace swear words with the # symbol.

42

December 2010 / January 2011

magazine cape town

registered (and birth dates can only be changed once). MXit users are able to create their own private chat room – and a user can create a topic for the room as well as set a password for entrance. Only those in possession of the password can enter the room.

Although MXit’s chat rooms are subjected to random monitoring and have clear guidelines about what not to do in them, every once in a while someone breaks the cardinal online rule – protect your identity.

Internet with your personal information is dangerous,” he adds.

In August 2010 a 15-year-old girl in Gauteng proved just how dangerous this can be. She allegedly met her rapist in a MXit chat room and then accepted his invitation to add him to her contact list.

Though she did not know the person, she agreed to meet him offline and attend a party. He secretly picked her up down the street from her house, but there was no party; only a traumatic rape ordeal, a horrific experience no-one should have to endure.

I don’t find it scary or bad... the only problem is that people may say things on MXit that they are too scared to say to your face. stranger danger MXit facilitates affordable communication, but like every other communication medium it can be used productively or abused. Jeremy Forsyth, marketing manager of Dial a Nerd, says the major downside is that potentially anyone can be speaking to your child in a MXit chat room.

“If your child shares his or her cell number or other personal details in a chat room, it can open the door to inappropriate content being sent via SMS or MMS. Trusting random people on the magazine cape town

Teenagers (and other users) who disregard MXit’s chat room guidelines and give their personal details to strangers are opening themselves up to those who have dodgy agendas. However, Gavin Marshall, MXit Lifestyle Innovator, believes that if MXit’s guidelines are adhered to the risks are minimised. “The stranger danger principle applies online as much as everywhere else,” he says. “Parents and educators need to figure out how MXit works and take a keen interest in how their children are using it.”

Marshall points out that parents are able to block a child’s access to chat rooms in December 2010 / January 2011

43

parenting

the info settings of the application as a further precaution if they’d prefer.

Marshall encourages parents with children on MXit to download the application onto their own cellphones and to add their children as contacts. This will enable parents to see how much time their children spend on MXit. “You may just find it a fun way to communicate with your child or play a game of chess with her,” he adds. MXit has a number of entertaining games on its platform, including Tixi (a word game, which can help children with their spelling) and Moonbase (a multiplayer strategy game).

There are also commendable community initiatives using the MXit platform. In May 2009 Childline launched an online counselling service on MXit, enabling users to chat to a trained counsellor in one of the Childline chat rooms.

Abuse and psychological health, particularly suicidal feelings, have been the leading topics of conversation, according to a Childline report. The service is also hugely beneficial for hearing impaired children.

moderating MXit Aderyn Exley, a counselling psychologist in Johannesburg, advises parents to accept that social media is the way of the future, but not to abandon their children to navigate this often frightening world on their own.

44

December 2010 / January 2011

“Studies have shown that the decision-making cortex in the brain, which gives us the ability to thoroughly weigh up pros and cons in life situations, only fully develops between the ages of 18 and 24,” she points out. “Our children often miss ‘the obvious’ and need an alert, compassionate adult to assist in the navigation of the situation, even into their late teens and early twenties.”

Incidentally, the largest segment of MXit users is between the ages of 18 and 25.

“I suggest parents approach cellphone use as a bargaining tool based on trust. When a child proves trustworthy, a parent may slowly withdraw. But check in daily so you can stay on top of any weird stuff,” says Exley. “If inappropriate things do happen, such as spreading a nasty rumour, a parent’s job is to provide appropriate role modelling so your child can learn positive social skills. We are finding that young people today tend to have a low emotional intelligence. They often find it difficult to express their emotions and lack conflict resolution skills.” Exley agrees that the terse nature of online communication plays a big part.

The Internet and the evolving technologies built around it are here to stay. If we take an active interest in the MXit generation and keep traditional communication channels open, we’ll have a better chance of ensuring a safe online experience for our children.

why they like it “I like using MXit because it’s convenient and quick to talk to friends – and it’s cheap. I use it to chat to friends I know personally. I don’t find it scary or bad... the only problem is that people may say things on MXit that they are too scared to say to your face.” – Paige (15) “I like using MXit because I can talk to my friends wherever they are. I use MXit for chatting to my friends or playing games like Moonbase.

The only two things I find bad about MXit are that some people get addicted to it and some people give out too much information about themselves.”

– Jonathan (14) “I like it because I can talk to my friends and it is easy to use. It is also cheaper to message friends on MXit than to SMS. The thing that is bad about it for me is that you can also go onto chat zones and talk to random people you don’t know.” – Gary (13)

magazine cape town

magazine cape town

December 2010 / January 2011

45

resource

day tripping Five great outings close to your city.

By LUCILLE KEMP

connecting with mother nature Though Constantia Valley is close to home, it could take you a while to make it back to your front door, such is the beauty of the green belt, which extends from Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden to Tokai Forest. It offers large open spaces, parkland, a mountain backdrop, a valley, streams and rivers. There are nine walking routes on the green belt; not strenuous, each takes about 30 to 45 minutes (unless you get carried away with all the exploring there is to be done). Pack the children’s bicycles, wear hats and wellies, get going and get dirty. Hint: the Alphen Trail is particularly popular with families. At the end of the day nourish your weary selves on the shady terrace under the oak trees at the Boer ’n Brit within Alphen Estate. If you go with the Spaanschemat River Trail, end it off nearby at the Constantia landmark Peddlars on the Bend on Spaanschemat River Road. In summer its garden seating area is bustling and welcoming.

route info Constantia Valley is a 20-minute drive from Cape Town via the M3. Take the Constantia/Wynberg turn-off, take a left and go under the bridge, turn right at the first set of traffic lights. After the dip in the road, find your parking spot at the security hut ahead of you. useful contacts Boer ’n Brit 021 794 5011; Peddlars on the Bend 021 794 7747.

To link up with a volunteer guide, contact info@constantiavalley.com. For a map of each of the trails visit zandvleitrust.org.za

At the seaside town of Gordon’s Bay is Main Beach, a great summer destination when the Cape Doctor isn’t blowing. After a reasonably straightforward journey the view will open up when you’re cruising along Beach Road to a great family beach, with its pristine-white sand, calm, warm water and rock pools that provide a shallow paddling area and a spot for “fishing” (pack the children’s fishing nets). After a day of frolicking, stroll to a restaurant on Beach Road and see if the family has the legs to stay for a spectacular sunset. There’s Sunset Bay Spur, which is on the beach, or cross the road to Talla’s Tavern for ribs and lamb curry. You can head further down the way to Miguel’s Al Forno Pizzeria, where the children will happily inhale a small Hawaiian pizza after a day of swimming. And what if the wind picks up? Take a 15-minute drive to Monkey Town in Somerset West.

route info A 40-minute drive from Cape Town on the N2. useful contacts Sunset Bay Spur 021 856 2676; Talla’s Tavern 021 856 3513; Miguel’s Al Forno Pizzeria 021 856 4021; Monkey Town 021 858 1060 or visit monkeys.co.za

46

December 2010 / January 2011

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPHS: RENEE CHEARY, DI NOSWORTHY, JUSTIN BURLS, LEANNE COX

beach babes

resident for a day Elgin Valley, situated within the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, is only an hour’s drive from Cape Town. Elgin is a fertile valley of roses, apples, pears and cool-climate wine. Outdoor activities are abundant, with hikes, birding, mountain-bike routes, bass and trout fishing, kloofing and fly-fishing on offer. There is a monthly Flea & Craft Market at Marsh Rose Mall (18 December and 29 January) and Paul Cluver’s open-air concerts are in full swing, so book your tickets before the show. Prepare for the day’s activities with breakfast at one of the farm stall cafés. Houw Hoek Farm Stall’s coffee shop has jungle gyms and swings and a flexible menu for children, and they make a delicious Eggs Benedict. The Red Tractor Café, within the grounds of the Peregrine Farmstall, has a pay-and-weigh buffet spread and a play area with tractors, swings and farm animals such as ducks, chickens and a pig.

route info Take the N2 via Sir Lowry’s Pass. useful contacts Marsh Rose Mall Flea & Craft Market 021 859 1522 or visit marshrosemall.co.za; Paul Cluver Amphitheatre 021 844 0605 or visit cluver.com; Houw Hoek Coffee Shop 028 284 9273 or visit houwhoekfarmstall.co.za; The Red Tractor Café 021 848 9011

the wilds of the winelands Hartenberg Estate in Stellenbosch is a quick drive from Cape Town on the N1, with no pit stops needed. You know you’re on your way when buildings start to disperse and your eye stretches to the outline of mountains ahead of you. The Hartenberg manor house, with its tasting room and cellar, is tucked away far from the gravelroad entrance and is surrounded by lush trees and hills. A stream runs the length of the farm into an uncultivated wetland. Your pre-ordered, packed-to-the-brim picnic basket is a steal (R120 per adult, R50 per child) and includes home-made snoek pâté and wine, while the children’s basket has fruit sosaties, ice cream, veggie sticks and chicken nuggets. Find your spot on the grass, relax and simply enjoy the day. A jungle gym and trampoline will keep the children entertained while you take it easy.

We recommend you book, as the summer picnics are very popular.

route info From the N1 take exit 32 (Oostenberg), turn right at Brighton Road (M15) and turn left into Bottelary Road. useful contacts Hartenberg Estate 021 865 2541 or visit hartenbergestate.com

a slice of paradise Waterval Farm is well worth the one-and-a-half hour trip from Cape Town. Near Wellington, look out for Florida Farm Stall, your pit stop for coffee and a country breakfast. (Stock your picnic basket for later in the day with

route info Hit the N1 and connect onto the R44 via Adam Tas Street.

The N7 offers a quicker route. useful contacts Florida Farm Stall 021 873 7437; Waterval 082 878 1358 or visit 22waterfalls.co.za

magazine cape town

home-made pies and cookies.) The stall has mielies for the children to feed the resident goats and donkey, and there is a huge nursery at the back of the property.

Five kilometres from Porterville is Waterval, a private nature reserve and working farm that overlooks the valley of Porterville and Piketberg in the Swartland. Aside from the wildlife and farm animals, your children will love the hiking trail, which takes you on a circular route past 22 waterfalls. On the way you’ll find loads of natural rock pools for swimming. Activities also include horseriding trails and single-track mountain-bike trails with tactical areas as well as freshwater bass fishing in the dams.

December 2010 / January 2011

47

books

a good read for toddlers

Stormy Weather

By Debi Gliori (Bloomsbury Publishing, R213) This is the perfect bedtime story for children aged two to five years old. Enter a world of warmth as you join the characters of this book, preparing for the night ahead. Your toddler will be enchanted by the gentle rolling and rhyming text and the comforting artwork as, one by one, the animals cuddle up and fall asleep, safe under the watchful gaze of their adoring parents. The author gently addresses bedtime fears, which through this enchanting story, soon disappear.

Soft Felt Stories – Sleeping Beauty and Little Red Riding Hood

By Brenda Apsley and Jo-Anne Shilliam (Human & Rousseau, R102 each) These board books for four-year-olds bring a whole new dimension to two very popular fairy tales. Each book comes with 30 softfelt picture stickers that can be used to fill scenes on the special felt backgrounds that accompany each page. With colourful illustrations by Jo-Anne Shilliam, the books will make great gifts and give children hours of creative fun.

Bear Flies High

By Michael Rosen and Adrian Reynolds

best bedtime story

Milo’s Pet Egg

By Rebecca Elliott (Bloomsbury Publishing, R96) This is a story about the development of an unusual friendship. Milo finds an abandoned egg, which he calls Snappy, and they become the best of friends – swinging together, floating together, balancing, falling, rolling and climbing. Then one morning Milo wakes up and the egg is broken.

He thinks he has lost his friend, but of course the egg has hatched and Milo’s “new” friend, Snappy the baby crocodile, is there to play with him. The story has a heart-warming ending, with Milo having aspirations to be a croc-sitter.

(Bloomsbury Publishing, R108 with audio CD) Children from the age of three will enjoy this story about Bear who wants to learn how to fly. Bear spends most of his time on the beach, singing, “Do be doo, Doo bee doo, Doo bee doodily doo”, when the seagulls distract him and his dream to fly is born. Luckily his four human friends come along, and they know just how to help Bear – off to the fairground they go. The roller coaster is a bit scary, but once high up in the air, Bear realises: “I’m a bear who can fly. You can fly? I can fly.” This is a story about friends helping each other to realise their dreams, and having great fun doing it.

The Littlest Dinosaur and the Naughty Rock

By Camilla Reid and Michael Foreman

great to read out loud

(Bloomsbury Publishing, R81) This is the perfect book to teach children as young as four the importance of the simple words

Cave Baby

By Julia Donaldson and Emily Gravett (Macmillan Children’s Books, R99) A hairy mammoth takes a cheeky little baby on a thrilling ride through a moonlit landscape where they encounter a sabretoothed tiger, a leaping hare, a laughing hyena and even (or is it maybe?) a big brown bear. The award-winners, author Julia Donaldson and illustrator Emily Gravett, have paired up for this new picture book. It is the first time that Gravett, who writes and illustrates her own books, has illustrated someone else’s work. They have created a story of rare quality: a visual feast and a joy to read out loud.

48

December 2010 / January 2011

“please” and “thank you”. The Littlest Dinosaur has been in a bad mood all morning. First he’s rude to his dad, and then he shouts at his brothers and sisters. The final straw is when he throws a tantrum because Mom doesn’t serve him the lunch he wants. “Go and sit on the naughty rock until you’ve calmed down and can behave properly,” says Mom. The naughty rock turns out to be a wise old tortoise who shares his wisdom with the Littlest Dinosaur, with delightful and insightful consequences.

magazine cape town

for preschoolers and early graders Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Roald Dahl, with illustrations by Quentin Blake (Puffin Books, R179) This version of the ever-popular Dahl story is perfect for children aged seven to nine. The story hasn’t changed: Charlie Bucket still loves chocolate, and Mr Willy Wonka, the most wondrous inventor in the world, again opens the gates of his amazing chocolate factory to Charlie and his friends. Quentin Blake, who has illustrated many of Dahl’s books, including Matilda, is responsible for the quirky and vivid illustrations, which make this hardcover book the perfect gift for young readers.

The Bloomsbury Nursery Treasure

By Patricia Borlenghi and Eleanor Taylor (Bloomsbury Publishing, R152) All children should have a selection of fairy tales on their book shelves. In this book, both familiar and lesser-known childhood favourites are brought to life. Little Red Riding Hood, The Three Little Pigs and The Emperor’s New Clothes, along with seven other stories, will delight and entertain a modern young audience. Patricia Borlenghi has worked in children’s books for over 30 years and Eleanor Taylor won the English Award for the Best Children’s Illustrated Book for Run, Rabbit, Run.

A Home for Dixie

By Emma Jackson and Bob Carey

Nelson Mandela – Long Walk to Freedom Abridged by Chris van Wyk, illustrated by Paddy Bouma (Macmillan Children’s Books, R126) Children from as young as Grade 2 can now own their own copy of the international bestseller Long Walk to Freedom. Endorsed

by Nelson Mandela and his foundation, Chris van Wyk tells the amazing story of this true hero of our time. Your child can discover how a little boy whose father called him “Troublemaker” grew up to fight apartheid, become South Africa’s first black president, and campaign for freedom and justice throughout the world. Complete with vivid illustrations and a timeline, this important book brings an inspirational man to life for the younger generation. magazine cape town

(Harper Collins Publishers, R86) Children aged four to eight will delight in this true tale of a rescued dog. A young girl named Emma desperately wants a puppy of her own to love. Eventually Emma’s parents give the go-ahead, and suggest they look for a puppy at a shelter.

Luckily for Dixie, Emma chooses the little brown puppy with the white paws and black nose, and in each other they find the companionship they’ve been looking for. With full-colour photographs by Bob Carey, children will most certainly fall in love with Dixie.

December 2010 / January 2011

49

books

for preschoolers and early graders best preteen read

Marley and the Kittens

By John Grogan and Richard Cowdrey

a visual feast

Life-Size Zoo

By Teruyuki Komiya (Seven Footer Press, R190) This actual-size encyclopaedia has stunning photographs of more than 20 zoo animals – from tiny rodents to gigantic elephants – that fill its large-format pages. The animals are featured in life-size photographs that were taken at Japan’s premier zoos, and include a tiger, panda, meerkat, sea lion, giraffe, camel, zebra, elephant and more. An extra bonus is the information on all the animals that accompanies the photographs.

50

December 2010 / January 2011

Emily Brown and the Elephant Emergency

By Cressida Cowell and Neal Layton (Orchard Books, R120) Emily Brown, Stanley the bunny and Matilda the elephant love going on adventures, but every time they get to a particularly exciting part… “Ring! Ring!” goes the emergency telephone and it’s Matilda’s mom on the other end worrying that Matilda isn’t wearing her Wellies or eating properly or that she might be getting frostbite on her trunk. At first Emily Brown politely informs her that this telephone is strictly for emergencies and, anyway, elephants don’t wear Wellies, or clean socks for that matter. Eventually Matilda’s mom stops calling and Emily Brown, Stanley and Matilda set out on a new adventure – to save Mom.

(HarperCollins Publishers, R68) Marley the dog became famous with the publication of John Grogan’s adult book Marley & Me and the film starring Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston. In this book, Grogan writes about Marley especially for children five years and older. When a pair of adorable kittens joins the family, Marley is so excited to have new friends to play with he follows them everywhere. But he is not like the graceful kittens and he keeps getting into trouble. Marley is afraid he may lose his number-one status in the house, until the two kittens remind him, and the family, that nobody is perfect, and that we’re still all pretty special in our own way.

Masterpiece

By Elise Broach (Walker Books, R85) Marvin lives with his family under the kitchen sink in the Pompadays’ apartment. He is very much a beetle.

James lives with his family in New York City. He is very much an 11-year-old boy. After James gets a pen-and-ink set for his birthday, Marvin surprises him by creating an elaborate miniature drawing. James ends up with all the credit, and is expected to do it again.

Before long, the friends are caught up in an art heist that could lead them to a lost drawing by Albrecht Dürer.

magazine cape town

for preteens and teens good old mystery

The Summer I Turned Pretty

By Jenny Han

Dead Man’s Cove

By Lauren St John

(Penguin Books, R102) The Summer I Turned Pretty turned Jenny Han into a celebrity overnight and there is even talk of a film based on the book. Every year Isabel, or Belly, spends the perfect summer at the beach house of family friend Susannah.

Belly is used to being excluded by her older brother and Susannah’s two sons, Conrad and Jeremiah. Ordinarily she entertains herself and they all ignore each other. But this year, something is different: Conrad and Jeremiah seem to have noticed her for the first time. It’s going to be an amazing summer; one she’ll never forget. It will be difficult to find a better beach read for girls from the age of 12.

(Orion Children’s Books, R112) In a book world obsessed with vampires, Lauren St John has revived the good old detective story with a thoroughly modern and tenacious heroine. With a suitcase full of books that have long been her window on the world, Laura Marlin goes to live with her uncle in Cornwall, convinced that a life of adventure is hers at last. But everywhere she turns she’s confronted with mysteries. When Laura finds a message in a bottle, she embarks on a deadly quest – one that will test her detective skills to the limit and set her on a collision course with villains who will stop at nothing to get their own way.

Top 10 of Everything 2011

By Russell Ash (Hamlyn, R217) This book is bursting with more than 7 000 facts that will intrigue, fascinate and amaze you. The Top 10 of Everything looks at the universe and earth, music, life on earth, entertainment, the human world, towns and countries, the commercial world, things that move, culture and sport.

Did you know that the country that spends the most on toys and games is the UK? Or that Percy Montgomery is placed ninth (with Australia’s Stephen Larkham) in the top 10 most-capped players in international rugby? How about comparing the top record holders of the land-speed record (number one is the UK’s Andy Green, who in 1997 raced at the staggering speed of 1 227,99 km/h)! This is one of those books that will entertain the whole family.

magazine cape town

Unhooking the Moon

By Gregory Hughes (Quercus Publishing, R92) When their father dies suddenly, Marie Claire (or the Rat, as she’s better known) and her older brother Bob are left all alone in the world, except for a mysterious uncle who they’ve never met and is said to be living somewhere in New York City.

Afraid of being sent to a children’s home (Rat is a dancing, football-playing gangster-baiting 10-year-old, but she also has a long-term illness and is prone to fits), they set off on a journey to find him. Along the way they meet very interesting characters, end up in scary situations and have to endure all kinds of onslaughts. Unhooking the Moon is one of those rare books that grips you, leaves you bittersweet and then elated.

Recommended for children aged 12 and older.

December 2010 / January 2011

51

books

for us How to Land an A330 Airbus and other vital skills for the modern man

By James May

(Hodder & Stoughton Ltd, R320) Here’s a great book for fans of Top Gear and other TV programmes starring James May. When May was great given another pointless “man manual” that told him gift 50 ways to tie a bow tie in less than 30 seconds, for dad he realised the desperate need for a proper “man’s manual”. You never know when you might need to land an A330 Airbus, but just in case… read, learn and be prepared. As May puts it, here are the things your dad would have taught you if only he’d known how. It also shows you how to fight a duel, deliver twins, drive a steam locomotive, invade the Isle of Wight, defuse a World War II bomb and play the Moonlight Sonata. This is a must-have for all gadget-lovers – and for those with a sense of humour.

Conversations with Myself

By Nelson Mandela (Macmillan, R232) Nelson Mandela is one of the most inspiring and iconic figures of our age. Now, after a lifetime of taking pen to paper to record thoughts and events, hardships and victories, he has opened his personal archive, which offers insight into his remarkable life. Conversations With Myself gives readers access to the private man behind the public figure: from letters written in the darkest hours of his 27 years of imprisonment to the draft of an unfinished sequel to Long Walk to Freedom.

As US president Barack Obama writes in the foreword: This book does the world an extraordinary service in giving us that picture of Mandela, the man.”

Bad Things in the Night

By Beth Ellis

How to Raise the Perfect Dog – through Puppyhood and Beyond

By Cesar Millan

(Ebury Press, R96) This is a highly moving memoir of a child’s suffering at the hands of her abusive stepfather within a closed and secretive religious community. As a child, the author was imprisoned within her father’s family, kept away from her mother, forbidden from wearing a school skirt above her knees by day and abused by her stepfather at night. Years later, when she summons the courage to report her stepfather to the police for the first time, she is forced to relive her childhood torment. Beth Ellis’s story is nothing short of courageous.

(Hodder & Stoughton, R118) In this book, the world-renowned dog-behaviour specialist shares his own experience in raising individual puppies from some of the most popular breeds. Cesar points out what to expect from each stage of your puppy’s development and gives quick and easy housebreaking tips. He covers proper nutrition and the ins and outs of vaccinating. He helps you with establishing perfect obedience through rules, boundaries, limitations and calmassertive leadership practices. There are tips on how to avoid the most common mistakes owners make as well as how to correct any issue before it becomes a problem. Included are unique exercises and play ideas to bring out the best in every breed.

52

December 2010 / January 2011

magazine cape town

Atlantic – A Vast Ocean of a Million Stories

By Simon Winchester (HarperCollins Publishers, R210) The best-selling author of Krakatoa dramatises the life story of the Atlantic Ocean, from its birth in the recesses of geological time to its eventual extinction millions of years in the future. Travelling around its edges and across its huge expanses, Winchester reports from the places that encapsulate the Atlantic’s most fascinating stories – the age of exploration and the colonisation of the Americas; the rise and fall of the slave trade, and the flourishing of transatlantic commerce; extraordinary tales of seaborne emigration; and the great naval battles that have left an indelible imprint on Atlantic history.

The result is an enthralling mixture of history, science and reportage. You will never look at this magnificent body of water with the same eyes again.

pick of the month

The Lacuna

By Barbara Kingsolver (Faber and Faber, R200) Born in the US and reared in a series of provisional households in Mexico, Harrison Shepherd is mostly a liability to his socialclimbing flapper mother, Salomé. Life is whatever he learns from servants as he is put to work in the kitchen and runs errands in the streets. Then he meets Mexican muralist Diego Rivera, and his wife, Frida Kahlo. The young Shepherd inadvertently casts his lot with art and revolution. A must-read according to this review by Independent on Sunday: “Every few years, you read a book that makes everything else in life seem unimportant.”

Potjiekos – Best of Matie Brink

By Matie Brink

FAB – An Intimate Life of Paul McCartney

By Howard Sounes

(Human & Rosseau, R110) Matie Brink is known as the king of potjiekos and here the best recipes from his four previous books are conveniently collected in one volume. From easy to “grand”, economical to special – this book caters for every taste. Recipes include everyday favourites with a difference such as inflation pot, chicken with a kick, lasagne pot and oxtail with peaches. The book also includes recipes for breads, cakes and puddings. It’s a perfect companion for the long holidays when there are lots of visitors, or simply to try out while lazing with the family next to the pool.

(HarperCollins Publishers, R156) Renowned for his comparable 2001 bestseller Down the Highway: The Life of Bob Dylan, author Howard Sounes spent more than two years investigating every aspect of Sir Paul McCartney’s life and work, which included interviewing more than 200 people. The result is the richest, most detailed and most comprehensive life story of McCartney ever written. The author pays equal attention to McCartney’s role in the Beatles as well as his post-Beatles career. Included is McCartney’s calamitous second marriage to Heather Mills. This is an entertaining account of one of the most famous and richest men in the world today.

magazine cape town

December 2010 / January 2011

53

calendar

what’s on in december / january Things to do, places to go, ways to give back, talks and exhibitions plus loads of fun for the whole family. compiled by LUCILLE KEMP

17 fri

special events

56

FUN for children

59

only for parents

69

bump, baby & tot in tow

70

how to help

70

SPECIAL EVENTS

FUN FOR CHILDREN

South African National Circus School holiday academy The children are taught all the skills of the circus and experience the circus family unit.

54

December 2010 / January 2011

ONLY FOR PARENTS

bump, baby & tot in tow

how to help

Elvis Tribute Show James Marais plays the legend. He recently won the title of Best Elvis Tribute Artist in South Africa.

Sign language for hearing babies Classes that help bridge the communication gap between baby and parent, minimising frustration until they find the words.

Buckets of Love The Catholic Welfare and Development aims to feed 8 000 impoverished families over the festive season.

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPHS: THINKSTOCKPHOTOS.COM

Sunscene sandboarding day includes a three-hour lesson for children and parents. Share the thrill as you fly down sand dunes on purpose-made sandboards and toboggans.

magazine cape town

December 2010 / January 2011

55

calendar

SPECIAL EVENTS

december 1 wednesday World Aids Day Gala Concert An evening of music to honour unsung heroes, featuring international star Jimmie Earl Perry witj Soli Philander, Ladysmith Black Mambazo and the New Apostolic Church Symphony Orchestra and Choir. Time: 7:30pm. Venue: Artscape Opera House. Cost: R75 and R120.

Contact: 021 421 7695 or book through Computicket: visit computicket.com

1 December – World Aids Day Gala Concert

Zip Zap outreach project The show forms part of an outreach project in collaboration with the Ibhongolwethu kids and Zip Zap Circus. Time: 2pm. Venue: Oliver Tambo Centre, Khayelitsha. Cost: free. RSVP to: 021 421 86 23 or info@zip-zap.co.za

56

December 2010 / January 2011

3 friday Elvis Tribute Show James Marais plays the legend. He recently won the title of Best Elvis Tribute Artist in South Africa. Ends 15 January. Time: Wednesday–Saturday 8pm.

New Year’s Eve show begins at 10:30pm.

Venue: GrandWest Roxy Revue Bar. Cost: R67. New Year’s Eve show costs R120.

Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Marimba Band Enjoy the evening with your children. A light meal is available. Time: 5pm–8pm. Venue: Millstone Farmstall & Café, Oude Molen Eco Village. Cost: R25 at the door, children under 12 free. To book: 021 447 8226 or 082 407 8910 Spud premieres John “Spud” Milton embarks on his first year at an elite, boys-only private school.

Cursed with parents from well beyond the lunatic fringe, a senile granny, and a dormitory full of strange characters, Spud has to forge a new life for himself in this foreign environment. Look out for John Cleese as Mr ‘The Guv’ Edly. Showing at all major cinemas.

4 saturday Montessori early childhood training course (fully accredited). Time: 10am.

Venue: Auburn House School, Kenilworth.

3 fri

Crayfish & Seafood Festival Local bands, singers and dancers fan the festive spirit. Stalls, jumping castles and face painting all day.

Take your picnic blanket and camping chairs. Also 4 December.

Time: Friday 5pm till late and Saturday 9am till late. Venue: Paternoster. Cost: entry only: adults R30 and children R20 or full package per person: R130, which includes entry, crayfish (either raw or braaied), salad and a 500ml bottle of red or white wine. Contact: 083 692 2201 or 086 577 4392

Contact: 021 797 7872 or info@ auburnhouse.co.za SARDA Starlight Dance A fun, family night with a band playing ’60s and ’70s music. Bring camping chairs or blankets to sit on. Time: 6pm–11pm. Venue: SARDA

Campus, Brommersvlei Rd, Constantia.

Cost: adults R60, children 8–18 years R20. Contact Andrea: 021 794 4393 or capetown@sarda.co.za The Franschhoek Magic of Bubbles Cap Classique and Champagne Festival Sample Champagne and Cap Classique wines to get a unique combination of French heritage and the South African winelands. The theme for this year’s festival is black and white. Also 5 December.

Time: noon–6pm daily. Cost: R180 includes a tasting glass and a complimentary booklet of tasting coupons. Book through webtickets.co.za or for more info: visit franschhoek.org.za

4 December – The Franschhoek Magic of Bubbles Cap Classique and Champagne Festival

Tygerberg Children’s Choir Christmas Concerts It’s time for the highly acclaimed Tygerberg Children’s Choir’s very popular annual Christmas concerts. The choir celebrates its 38th year, and two world championship titles won at the 6th World Choir Games in Shaoxing, China in July this year. Time: 8pm. Venue: Cape Town

magazine cape town

City Hall. Cost: R80. Contact: 021 948 4046 or tcc@mweb.co.za. Also at 3pm on 12 December at Endler Hall, University of Stellenbosch.

Sisterhood morning for women of all ages and backgrounds. There will be two sessions with tea and coffee, music and an inspiring talk by Hillsong Senior Pastor Bobbie Houston. Great children’s programme available. Time: 8:30am and 10:30am. Venue: CTICC. Cost: free. For more info and to RSVP: visit hillsong.co.za

5 sunday Die Burger Cycle Tour This year’s event features three road distances: 15km, 44km and 98km. The 15km fun ride is perfect for families with young children

(six years and older). Time: tbc, visit their website for details. Venue: start and finish at Stellenbosch High School. Cost: 98km R190, 44km R90, 15km R50. Discount for PPA members. For more info: visit dieburgercycletour.co.za

6 monday Grandpa in my Pocket series 2 premieres Grandpa lives with his family in a beautiful seaside town. Everyone thinks he spends all his time stuck in his armchair, but he has a magic shrinking cap that only his grandson Jason knows about. When Grandpa puts his cap on, he becomes small enough to fit into Jason’s pocket, not to mention his toy plane and car. Showing on CBeebies (DStv channel 306). Time: 9:30am and 5:30pm daily

4 December – Tygerberg Children’s Choir Christmas Concerts

magazine cape town

7 tuesday Breyani by David Kramer The legendary singer celebrates rhythm, instrumentation, vocal styling and language to create music that is unique to the Cape. Ends 31 December. Time: Monday– Saturday 8:15pm, 24 December 6pm, 31 December 9:30pm. Cost: from R95. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

7 December – Breyani by David Kramer

8 wednesday Kiddies Christmas Party at Café Roux Café Roux hosts an annual children’s Christmas Party. Please bring a present for your child and one for a child at Masiphumelele Crèche. A light meal is included. Time: 5pm. Venue: Café Roux, Noordhoek Farm Village. Cost: adults R80, children R40. Contact: 021 789 2538 or visit caferoux.co.za

10 friday

11 saturday

Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader premieres Edmund and Lucy Pevensie, along with their cousin Eustace Scrubb and Prince Caspian, find themselves swallowed into a painting and onto a fantastic Narnian ship headed for the very edges of the world, promising loads of adventure along the way. Showing at all major cinemas.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs “Mirror, mirror on the wall…. Who is the fairest of them all?” The well-known fairytale warms hearts this holiday season. Ends 23 December. Time: Monday–Saturday 10:30am (excluding 16 December). Venue: Artscape Theatre Foyer. Cost: R40. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or Artscape Dial-a-Seat: 021 421 7695

December 2010 / January 2011

57

calendar

16 December – Fynbos Summer Sale

12 sunday Lebanon Family MTB Fun Ride An opportunity for the family to ride their mountain bikes together on these beautiful routes. Distance options: 3km, 10km and 26km – something for all abilities.

Time: 8:30am. Venue: Oaklane Cottages, Elgin Valley, Grabouw. Cost: R35–R80, depending on distance. Contact Dirtopia: 021 884 4752, theteam@dirtopia.co.za or visit dirtopia.co.za

16 thursday Fynbos Summer Sale promises fynbos fun for the whole family including 20% off all plants, free talks at 11am, a free guided fynbos walk at 1pm, fynbos food, a succulent footpath, an outdoor tea garden, music, a host of children’s activities and expert gardening advice. Time: 10am–4pm.

Venue: Good Hope Nursery, Plateau Rd (M65), 5km from Scarborough, en route to Cape Point. Cost: free entry. Contact: 021 780 9299, 072 234 4804, fynbosplants@ xsinet.co.za or visit capepoint.com

December 2010 / January 2011

18 saturday SARDA Carols by Candlelight Bring a family picnic, blankets and camping chairs to sit on. Time: 6pm–9pm. Venue: SARDA Campus, Brommersvlei Rd, Constantia.

Cost: free. Donations welcome. Contact Andrea: 021 794 4393 or capetown@ sarda.co.za

17 friday

24 friday

Sunscene sandboarding day includes a three-hour lesson for children and parents.

Share the thrill as you fly down sand dunes on purpose-made sandboards and toboggans. Suitable for children from seven years. Toboggans available for younger children and nervous moms. Time: 10am–1pm. Venue: Atlantis Sand Dunes.

Yogi Bear premieres Yogi must prove that he really is smarter than the average bear as he and Boo Boo join forces with their old nemesis, Ranger Smith, to find a way to save Jellystone Park from closing forever. Showing at all major cinemas

17 December – Sunscene sandboarding day

58

Cost: children R180, adults R220. Price includes equipment, expert instruction, refreshments and an entry permit. Contact Nichole or Jessica: 021 783 0203 or info@ sunscene.co.za Cinderella features the outrageous Ugly Sisters and the caring Fairy Godmother; it’s classical ballet at its humorous best. Ends 24 December (excluding 20 December).

Time: 17, 18, 21, 22, 23 December 7:30pm; 18 and 22 December 2pm; 19 December 3pm; 24 December 11am (plus fairy parade). Venue: Artscape Opera House. Cost: R90–R175. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or Artscape Dial-a-Seat: 021 421 7695

31 friday New Year’s Eve Bash at Café Roux with unlimited red and white wine. Eat as much as you like from the seafood harvest table and party with Me and Mr Brown.

Wigs are compulsory. Time: 6pm. Venue: Café Roux, Noordhoek Farm Village. Cost: R550. Contact: 021 789 2538 or visit caferoux.co.za Kirstenbosch New Year’s Eve Concert Picnic on the lawn with some bubbly and special friends. Supported by Loading Zone, Johnny Clegg is the main act and is set to rock you into a brand new year. It’s a wonderful way to see 2010 out and welcome 2011 in. Time: 7pm.

Venue: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. Cost: R240. Book through the Kirstenbosch ticket office: 021 761 2866 or visit webtickets.co.za. For more info: 021 799 8783/8620 or visit sanbi.org magazine cape town

january 4 tuesday Rumpelstiltskin The Lilliput Children’s Theatre Company performs this classic fairy-tale about a dwarf named… can you remember his name? This enchanting fairy-tale is full of laughter and audience participation. Ideal for children 2–11 years.

Ends 15 January. Time: Monday–Saturday 10:30am. Venue: Baxter Theatre. Cost: R38. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or 021 558 2650, 083 364 8284 or contact Elton: elton@lilliputplayers.co.za or visit lilliputplayers.co.za

5 wednesday Harbour A Kalk Bay musical written by Seymour Howe. Ends 22 January. Time: Wednesday–Saturday 8:30pm. Venue: Kalk Bay Theatre. Cost: R100. To book contact: 073 220 5430

7 friday Gulliver’s Travels premieres Travel writer Lemuel Gulliver takes an assignment in Bermuda, but ends up on the island of Liliput, where he towers over its tiny citizens.

Showing at all major cinemas.

8 saturday Totalsports Challenge Multi-sport enthusiasts, fitness junkies and lovers of the outdoors can choose between the action-packed seven-discipline Totalsports Challenge or the less daunting fourdiscipline Totalsports Terra Firma Challenge.

Time: Totalsports 6am, Terra Firma 7:45am.

Venue: race starts in Gordon’s Bay and ends in Kleinmond. Cost: from R456.

Enter online: totalsports.co.za. For event information: visit stillwatersports.com or for further information contact: 021 511 7130

22 sat

Classic Car & Bike Show The 12th Annual Classic Car and Bike Show is organised by the Western Cape Region of the International Police Association.

Also 23 January. Time: 10am–4pm daily. Venue: Timour Hall Villa, Timour Hall Rd, Plumstead. Cost: adults R20, children under 12 years free. For more info: visit classiccarandbikeshow.co.za

magazine cape town

8 January – Totalsports Challenge

28 friday Tangled premieres When the kingdom’s most wanted (and most charming) bandit, Flynn Rider, hides out in a mysterious tower, he’s taken hostage by Rapunzel, a beautiful and feisty tower-bound teen with 20 metres of magical, golden hair.

Showing at all major cinemas.

29 saturday J&B Metropolitan Stakes The racing and fashion event of the year. No children allowed. Time: tbc. Venue: Kenilworth Race Course. Cost: R165. Book through webtickets.co.za

FUN FOR CHILDREN art, culture and science Clay Café Your children will spend a leisurely day painting pottery in a relaxed environment. Time: Monday–Sunday 9am– 4pm. Venue: Old Dairy, Oakhurst Farm, Main Rd, Hout Bay. Cost: holiday special R85, which includes two items to paint plus a juice and a small snack. Contact: 021 790 3318 Free worm farm demonstration Learn more about these fascinating creatures and how you can help reduce waste through worm farming and vermicompost. 1, 8, 15 December and 5, 12, 19, 26 January. Time: Wednesday 3pm. Weather permitting.

Venue: children’s playground, Noordhoek Farm Village. Cost: free. Contact: 021 789 2922 or visit noordhoekvillage.co.za Mosaic workshops for moms and children Create beautiful mosaic Christmas presents for family and friends. 4 December.

Time: 2pm–5pm. Venue: Hout Bay. Cost: adults R200 per class, children 6–16 years R150, including materials. Contact: 072 372 1047, info@elke-losskarn.com or visit elke-losskarn.com Pottery holiday workshops Children choose from a few different projects such as picture frames and vases as well as different techniques. 13, 15, 20 December and 5, 10, 12, 17 January. Time: 9:30am– 12:30pm. Suitable for 6–14 years. Venue: 26 Skaife St, Scott Estate, Hout Bay. Cost: R140, which includes glazing and firing.

Contact: 021 790 7642, 082 781 8139 or lissapottery@gmail.com December 2010 / January 2011

59

calendar

Little Cooks Club holiday cooking lessons

Silly Solly and the Shooting Stars Solly wants to be chosen for his garden’s soccer team and thinks up ways to become a speedier snail. Suitable for children 5–12 years. 11 December–18 January. Excluding 25 December. Time: Monday–Friday 11am, 12pm, 3pm; Saturday 12pm, 3:30pm; Sunday 12pm and 3:30pm. Plus 22, 23, 29, 30 January 12pm. Venue: Iziko Planetarium, Queen Victoria Rd, Gardens. Cost: adults R20, children R6. Contact: 021 481 3800 or visit iziko.org.za Sue Nepgen’s art classes Children attend classes once a week, where the emphasis is on fostering creativity, selfesteem and enjoyment of art. Includes environmental art. For children 4–13 years.

Starts 27 January. Time: weekly afternoons and Saturday mornings. Venue: Michael

60

December 2010 / January 2011

Oak Waldorf School, Kenilworth or 28 Klaasenbosch Drive, Constantia. Cost: R495 a term, including materials, firing and outings. Contact: 021 794 6609, 083 237 7242 or snepgen@xsinet.co.za Two Oceans Aquarium All year round, visiting the aquarium is a great family outing. Become a member for extra benefits. Time: 16 December–9 January open until 8pm. Cost: entry for adults R94, children under four years free, 4–13 years R45 and 14–17 years R73. Contact: 021 418 3823, aquarium@aquarium.co.za or visit aquarium.co.za

classes, talks and workshops Little Cooks Club holiday cooking lessons Fun-filled cooking and craft activities for children 8–14 years. 15

December. Time: 10am–12pm. Venue: 3 Vlei St, Aurora, Durbanville. Cost: R150.

Contact Lisa: 073 227 3404 or lisab@ littlecooksclub.co.za Nice Touch cooking and baking Your child will follow recipes for chocolate-chip cookies, cupcakes, lemon meringue pie, pizza and Rice Crispies cookies, sushi or cut-out cookies. Time: 13, 14, 21 December 10am–11:30am, 15, 23 December 2pm– 3:30pm, 22 December 11:30am–1pm, 10–12 January 10am–11:30am, 13 January 2pm–3:30pm. Venue: St James Church Hall, St James Rd, Sea Point. Cost: R85 per child per lesson. For ages 4–12 years (younger children to be accompanied by an adult). Contact Janis: 082 319 9215, 021 434 1721, cookwithjanis@gmail.com or visit nicetouch.co.za Short Chefs Red Day Berry-licious cooking classes for children and their parents. Wiggly Whisks class (2–3 years) and Swirly Spoons class (4–7 years). 11 December. Time, age and cost: 2–3 years 9am–10am for R90; 4–7 years 11am–12pm for R120. Venue: 179 Circle Rd, Tableview.

Contact: 072 430 8813, 083 378 6470 or shortchefs@gmail.com The Shining Way school holiday programme incorporates art and crafts, singing and dancing, while dealing with the greater challenges of goal setting, teamwork and leadership. 8–14 years.

Time: 8am–5pm. Venue: tbc. Cost: R900.

Contact: 082 377 4319

Zeal Plan for 2011 Workshop Give your child a jump start to achieving happiness and success in 2011. Grades 1–12. 22 January.

Time: 9am–3pm. Venue: The Blouberg Life Coaching Studio for Kids, Melkbosstrand.

Cost: R400, which includes refreshments and EQual Zeal Kit. Contact Angelique: 021 553 5858 or angelique@equalzeal.com

eating out Café Roux braai nights and live acoustic music. Choose your braai meat and wind down from the week. 2, 9, 16 December and 6, 13, 20, 27 January. Time: Thursday, fires start at 6pm. Venue: Café Roux, Noordhoek Farm Village. Cost: from R15 for chicken kebab to R35 for sirloin steak and fresh fish. Contact: 021 789 2538 or visit noordhoekvillage.co.za Cape Farmhouse Restaurant Head towards this Scarborough eatery for a

Two Oceans Restaurant Christmas lunch

magazine cape town

family outings

The Mount Nelson Ballroom Christmas Day

long lazy lunch on a Saturday and stay for Farmhouse Rocks, the weekly outdoor concert that kicks off at 3:30pm and is priced separately. Time: Monday–Sunday 9:30am–5pm. Venue: junction of M66 & M65, bottom of Redhill Rd. Contact: 021 780 1246, info@capefarmhouse.co.za or visit capefarmhouse.co.za Grand Café and Beach Everyone’s talking about it and so they should because since when has R200 been worth it for a cheese and tomato pizza? Since you’ve been there – take a party of eight; find a couch on the sand and decide for yourself. Time: Tuesday–Sunday noon till late. Venue: Beach Rd, Granger Bay. Contact: 021 425 0551, beach@thegrand.co.za or visit thegrand.co.za The Mount Nelson Ballroom Christmas Day Dress smart-casual, enjoy the extensive festive buffet selection and be entertained

by Mike Perry’s four-piece band. 25

magazine cape town

December. Time: 12:30pm. Venue: Mount Nelson Hotel, Orange St, Gardens. Cost: adults R730, children under 12 years R280.

For reservations, contact: 021 483 1948 or restaurantreservations@mountnelson.co.za The Sweetest Thing Patisserie The young’uns love the choc-chip cupcakes, quiche Lorraine and the chocolate hazelnut croissants. You will love their leek and blue cheese quiche or chicken and pecan nut sandwich followed by Chocolate in Belgium.

Time: Monday–Friday 8am–5pm, Saturday 9am–5pm, Sunday 9am–4pm. Venue: Main Rd, Simon’s Town. Contact: 021 786 4200 Two Oceans Restaurant Christmas lunch Treat your family to exquisite views of False Bay matched only by the cuisine. 25 December. Time: 11am. Venue: Two Oceans Restaurant, Cape Point, Cape of Good Hope.

Cost: R169 per person plus 10% service charge. Contact reservations office: 021 702 0703 or visit two-oceans.co.za

City Sightseeing Cape Town Night Tour Cape Town is magical on a warm summer’s night, as the stars light the way through the Mother City with an illuminated Table Mountain as the backdrop. Ends 27 February. Time: 6pm–8:30pm. Venue: starts at the V&A Waterfront and takes you past all the best night attractions, as well as the festive Christmas lights in Adderley St. The bus stops at Signal Hill for an unforgettable sunset – so remember a picnic basket with snacks and sundowners.

Cost: R80. Contact: 021 511 6000 or visit citysightseeing.co.za Marimba Band 3 December. Time: 5pm– 8pm. Venue: Millstone Farmstall & Café, Oude Molen Eco Village. Cost: R25 at the door, children under 12 free. To book: 021 447 8226 or 082 407 8910 SARDA Carols by Candlelight 18 December. Time: 6pm–9pm. Venue: SARDA Campus, Brommersvlei Rd, Constantia.

Cost: free. Donations welcome. Contact Andrea: 021 794 4393 or capetown@ sarda.co.za SARDA Starlight Dance 4 December.

Time: 6pm–11pm. Venue: SARDA Campus, Brommersvlei Rd, Constantia. Cost: adults R60, children 8–18 years R20. Contact: 021 794 4393 or capetown@sarda.co.za Zip Zap outreach project. 1 December.

Time: 2pm. Venue: Oliver Tambo Centre, Khayelitsha. Cost: free. RSVP to: 021 421 86 23 or info@zip-zap.co.za

finding nature and outdoor play Apricot picking 24 November–4 December. Time: Monday–Saturday, 8am–4pm. Venue: De Krans Wine Cellar, Calitzdorp. Cost: R3,80 per kg. Contact: 044 213 3314 or dekrans@mweb.co.za Berry picking 15 November–31 December. Time: Monday–Friday 8am– 5pm and Saturday 9am–4pm. Venue: Wildebraam Berry Estate, Hermitage

Butterfly World The tropical garden situated within a 1 000m greenhouse is paradise for the free-flying exotic butterflies.

Time: Monday–Sunday 9am–5pm.

Venue: located near Klapmuts.

Cost: adults R39, children over three years R22, family (two adults, two children) R100, children under three years enter free. Contact: 021 875 5628, esther@yebo.co.za or visit butterflyworld.co.za

December 2010 / January 2011

61

calendar

Table Mountain sunset special Visitors pay half the price of a regular return ticket. There’s also a new sunset special Ride & Dine ticket option, which includes a return ticket and a meal hamper. Ends 28 February. Time: after 6pm every day. Venue: Table Mountain Cableway, Tafelberg Rd. Cost: adults R90 return, children under 18 years R45.

Contact: 021 424 8181 or visit tablemountain.net

Valley S4, Swellendam. Cost: R5 to enter and R10 per kg, pre-picked R15 per kg. For more info: 028 514 3132, info@wildebraam. co.za or visit wildebraam.co.za Cool Runnings A popular adventure sport where you will ride 1,25km of twisting steel pipe. Time: Tuesday–Friday 12pm–6pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am–6pm. Venue: off Cronjé Drive, Tygervalley. Cost: children (up to 14 years) from R20, adults (15 years and older) from R25. Book through webtickets.co.za or 021 949 4439, info@ cool-runnings.co.za. For more info: visit toboggan.co.za Intaka Island Nature Reserve A 16hectare wetland and bird sanctuary in the middle of Century City. Take a leisurely ferry ride on the Grand Canal. Time: Monday–Sunday 7:30am–5pm. Ferry-ride time: 10am–4pm. Venue: cnr Summer Greens Rd and Century Boulevard, Century City. Cost: adults R8, children 3–12 years R4, family ticket (2 adults, 3 children) R20.

Ferry-ride cost: adults R20, children 3–12 years R10. Contact: 021 552 6889

holiday activities

Bizzy Bodies holiday workshop Different activities to stimulate the mind and encourage fun. For children up to 12 years.

11 December–14 January. Time: Monday– Friday 10am–5pm. Venue: 23 Bell Crescent, Westlake Business Park, Tokai. Cost: R40 for two hours, third sibling enters free. Contact: 021 702 0505, info@bizzybodies.co.za or visit bizzybodies.co.za Bugz Very Merry Christmas Party An evening of clowns, stilt walkers, faeries and balloon twisters. Father Christmas has a gift for each child. Free cookies and milk and unlimited rides included. 15 and 18 December. Time: 6pm–10pm. Venue: Bugz Playpark, Kraaifontein. Cost: adults R60, children up to 14 years R95. Contact: 021 988 8836 or bugzparty@mwebbiz.co.za Butterfly Art Project holiday arts and crafts workshop A varied programme run by art therapists and facilitators, which includes singing, creating and outside play.

For children 3–10 years. 6–10, 13–17, 20–23 December. Time: Monday–Friday, 9am–2pm. Venue: 21 Wellington Ave, Wynberg. Cost: from R250 per day, lunch and snacks included. Contact: 021 761 4042 or butterflyartproject@gmail.co.za Cape Union Mart Canal Walk Adventure Centre All budding mountaineers are invited 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. Children can get up close and personal with a range of creepy crawlies and feathered friends. Booking essential. 12, 14, 15, 16 December. Time: varies. Venue: Cape Union Mart Adventure

Autism end-of-year party for all children with ASD. Gluten-free, dairyfree and sugar-free snacks available. 5 December. Time: 2pm–4pm. Venue: Planet Kids, Muizenberg. Cost: R30, includes a party pack. Contact: 021 788 3070 A Whale of a Heritage Route Learn more about whales and dolphins, listen out for Fish Hoek’s and Simon’s Town’s ghosts, check out Stone Age Man’s cave and skull and build a sandcastle in the form of a whale tail. 5–12 years.

11 December–14 January. Time: Monday–Friday 8am–5pm. Venue: Muizenberg, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek or Simon’s Town on a rotational basis. Cost: R80 per day. To register or enquire: 079 391 2105, info@ awhaleofaheritageroute.co.za or visit awhaleofaheritageroute.co.za Bayside Mall holiday fun for children 11–24 December 11am– 5pm, 3–12 January 11am–3pm.

Venue: Bayside Mall (opposite Ster Kinekor Cinemas), Raats Dr, Tableview. Cost: free. For more info: visit baysidemall.co.za Cape Union Mart Canal Walk Adventure Centre

62

December 2010 / January 2011

magazine cape town

Bugz Very Merry Christmas Party

Centre, Pod 4, Canal Walk Boulevard.

Cost: free. To reserve your place for any of these days: cwac@capeunionmart.co.za.

For more info: 021 555 4692 or visit capeunionmart.co.za Christmas craft activity workshops Children will enjoy decorating a stocking, making their own decoupage coasters or beading their own serviette holders, among other craft activities. Space is limited so go early. Parental supervision required. 16, 18, 22, 23 December. Time: 11am–1pm.

Venue: Spur Court, N1 City Mall. Cost: free. Contact: 021 595 1170 Eden on Big Bay holiday programme Several children’s activities include craft making, storytelling, puppet shows and more. 11 December–18 January. Time: Monday–Saturday 9am–3pm. Cost: free.

Contact: yolande@edenonthebaymall.co.za Giraffe House Fun Wildlife Activities offer fun wildlife quizzes, colouringin competitions, games and play dough modelling. For children aged 5–13 years.

Time: Wednesday and Friday 10am–11am, snake show 11am. Venue: The Giraffe House Wildlife Awareness Centre, corner of R304 and R101 en route to Stellenbosch. Cost: adults R45, children R25. Contact: 021 884 4506, info@giraffehouse.co.za or visit giraffehouse.co.za Headstart holiday swimming clinic 13–23 December. Swimming booster clinics for children in their indoor heated pool.

Two-, three- and four-day clinics available.

For ages 12 months to 8 years. Time: 8am– 5pm. Venue: The Children’s Workshop Montessori, 128 Belvedere Rd/104 Queen Victoria Rd, Claremont. Cost: R65 per lesson. Contact Rochelle: 021 674 7681 or headstartswim@gmail.com Holiday Dance Workshop Three-hours of fun centred around hip-hop dancing including warm-up, dance routine, movement and music, games, art and crafts activities and choreography.

Only 20 places available.

Preference will be given to those booking a full week. For children 6–13 years. 20–23 December and 3–6 January. Time: Monday–Thursday 9am– 12pm. Venue: Dance Accent Studio, Bergvliet.

Cost: R100 per day.

Contact: 021 801 9705 or danceaccent@iburst.co.za

Holiday Musical Stage School Northern Suburbs Students train each day in singing, dancing and drama, which leads to performing in a musical production, Nun Fun in the Arizona Sun, A Musical Melodrama by Gerald P. Murphy. For ages 5–8 years, 9–12 years, 13–18 years. 13–17 December. Time: 9am–12pm daily. Musical production: 7pm.

Venue: Welgemoed Dutch Reformed Church Hall, 15 Dias St, Welgemoed. Cost: R900 for the week. Contact: 021 913 3635, mari@ helenogrady.co.za or visit dramaafrica.com Holiday Musical Stage School Southern Suburbs Morning or afternoon sessions available. Students gain three hour’s tuition in singing, dance and drama from experts in the field of musical theatre and work towards a musical production at the end of the week called The Mikado, a comic opera set in Japan. 13–18 December. Time: 9am– 12pm and 2pm–5pm. Venue: Athenaeum in Newlands. Cost: R900 for the week.

Contact: 021 674 7478, info@dramaafrica. com or visit dramaafrica.com Holiday Riding Camp Learn about owning a horse, necessary equipment, basic riding skills, fun and games. Lunch and snacks included. 5 years and older. 13–15 December. Time: 9am–5pm, last day finishes 3pm. Venue: Camelot Riding School, Herta Erna Rd, Schoongezight, Durbanville. Cost: R750. Contact: 083 261 7656 Italian School holiday programme includes games, art and crafts, face painting, reading, singing, dancing and cooking. The children are exposed to a full immersion of the Italian language and culture. Booking essential. 10–14 January. Time: 8am–5pm.

Venue: The Italian School, The Grimley, 1st floor, 14 Tuin Plein St, Gardens. Cost: R800 for the week. Contact: 021 465 8261 or info@scuolaitalianadelcapo.co.za Kidz Discovery summer holiday club Fun-filled morning of art and crafts, baking, face painting, dress up, role

Holiday Musical Stage School Northern Suburbs

magazine cape town

December 2010 / January 2011

63

calendar play, clambering on climbing walls and jungle gym, dancing and story time. For 3–7 year olds. 8–17 December, excluding 16 December. Time: Monday–Friday 9:30am–12:30pm. Venue: tbc. Cost: R110 per morning, including a full snack, baking and craft materials. Early drop offs from 8:30am for a small fee. Contact Kathy: 083 654 2494 or email request with your child’s details to info@kidzdiscovery.co.za or visit kidzdiscovery.co.za Kidz Playzone holiday programme One of the highlights in the programme is the Christmas party on 22 December so don’t forget to book. The programme runs as follows: 10, 13–17, 20–23 December and 3–7 and 10–14 January. Time: 9am– 4:30pm. Christmas party 10am, Hannah Montana dance, magic show and snake show 11am. Venue: 10 Pastorale St,

Noordhoek Village Christmas activities

Durbanville Business Park, off Klipheuwel Rd. Cost: normal play rates apply, see website for details. Contact: 021 979 4872, 084 575 2546, bev@kidzplayzone.co.za or visit kidzplayzone.co.za Kidzville Fun activities and a professional childminding service. Your child can meet Tom and Tina daily at 2pm. 11–24 December and 3–18 January. Time: 10am–5pm. Venue: Tyger Valley Centre. Cost: free professional childminding services. Free parking ticket with every craft purchased. For more info: visit tygervalley.co.za Kindermusik holiday programme A summer full of music, stories and activities. For children aged 2 months to 7 years. 6–10 December: Bergvliet, Claremont, Gardens, Hout Bay, Milnerton and Sea Point. 10–14 January: Bergvliet, Claremont, Gardens and Sea Point. Time: visit the website. Cost: children 2–14 months R50 per session; children 14 months–7 years R60 per session. For more info: visit kindermusikwithnats.co.za Manners4Minors holiday club Your children can learn social skills and manners from their puppets and do a craft activity. For children 3–7 years. 13, 14, 15 December.

Time: 2pm–4pm. Venue: Guide Hall, Hof St, Tableview. Cost: R50 for a two-hour session. Contact Bianca: 083 407 6142 or bianca@ manners4minors.co.za

Summer in Stellenbosch Valley

Noordhoek Village Christmas activities 4 December: fun crafts. Children make fun and useful Christmas crafts using a personal theme for each item. 11 December: meet the Christmas fairies. Children can submit their Christmas wish lists and participate in magic, games and face painting. Return for the annual Carols by Candlelight with the South African Navy Band at 6pm. Bring a gift for an underprivileged child. Time: 10:30am–12:30pm. Venue: The Bandstand, Noordhoek Farm Village.

Cost: free. Contact: 021 789 2812 or visit noordhoekvillage.co.za Planet Kids holiday workshops Halfday workshops featuring dance, music and craft activities. 13–17, 20–24 December and 3–7 January. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Planet Kids, 3 Wherry Road, Muizenberg. Cost: R100 per day, R500 per week. Contact: 021 788 3070 or visit planetkids.co.za

Ratanga Junction is open 26–28 November and 3 December–18 January.

Closed Christmas Day. Time: 10am–5pm.

Venue: Century City. Cost: varies according to height. Contact: 0861 200 300 or visit ratanga.co.za Snow at Canal Walk Experience a tube slide down a larger and longer snow ramp.

There is also a children’s play area in the snow for building snowmen and an area for parents to watch their children. 10–30 December. Time: 10am–10pm daily. Venue: Canal Walk. Cost: R15–R60. For more info: visit canalwalk.co.za Somerset Mall activities A skating rink, bubble ball and Santa’s Christmas carousel.

They can also have their photo taken with Santa. For children 3 years and older. 10 December–2 January. Time: 10am–6pm.

Venue: Somerset Mall. Cost: R30. Contact: 021 852 7114 or visit somersetmall.co.za

family marketplace

64

December 2010 / January 2011

magazine cape town

South African National Circus School holiday academy The children are taught all the skills of the circus and experience the concept of the circus family unit. At the end of the week they put on a show inside the circus big-top tent. 13 December–15 January. Excluding 19, 25 December and 9 January. Time: 9am–12pm. Venue: 2 Willow Rd, Hartleyvale Stadium, Observatory.

Cost: R450 per child for a week’s academy training. Contact: 021 692 4287 and for more info visit sacircus.com Summer in Stellenbosch Valley Enjoy a fun-filled celebration in the Stellenbosch winelands. Children are catered for with fun activities to keep them occupied while parents enjoy the fruit of the valley’s vineyards. 16–19 December. For more information on participating wineries: visit wineroute.co.za and follow the sun for a full listing of events or contact 021 886 4310 or info@wineroute.co.za The Playshed indoor play centre has extended opening hours during the holidays. 1 December–9 January. Time: Tuesday–Sunday 9am–5pm. Venue: Oude Molen Eco Village, Pinelands. Cost: call to enquire. Contact: 021 801 0141/2 or playshed@gmail.com Tots n Pots holiday programme Fun-filled, hands-on cooking and baking workshop for children to encourage healthy eating habits. 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24 December. Time: Monday, Wednesday, Friday mornings. Venue: Daisies Coffee

magazine cape town

Shop, The Garden Shop, Doordrift Rd, Constantia. Cost: tbc. Contact Chene: 083 649 7405, chene@totsnpots.com for more details or visit totsnpots.com. Book now for January 2011. Term one starts 24 January Toy Kingdom Register for your Kingdom royalty card to receive R25 spending money and some great long-term benefits such as in-store entertainment. 3–5 December: Frog and Princess meet-and-greet. Time: 10am– 5pm. Venue: Toy Kingdom registration booths, Canal Walk. 4–5 December: Barbie meet-and-greet. Time: 1:30pm–3pm. Venue: Toy Kingdom Town Square. 3–5 December: complimentary Canal Walk express train rides. Departs every 15 minutes. Venue: Toy Kingdom, Canal Walk upper level. Time: 11am–5pm daily. Cost: all activities free for royalty cardholders. For more info: visit toykingdom.co.za

Wendy’s fabric-painting holiday classes Step by step workshop for adults and children. No artistic background needed. 5–15 December. Time: call to enquire. Venue: Pinelands. Cost: R40 per child per day. Contact: 021 531 8076, 082 391 4954 or wendyadriaan@telkomsa.net.

Fabric painting class on 29 January Zevenwacht Mall offers a Santa playground, photos with Santa, a beauty contest, an art and crafts market, teen talks and more. Times and dates vary. For a full programme: visit zevenwachtmall.co.za

markets Christmas craft market Over 30 craft stalls, raffles, entertainment and a Father Christmas visit. 4 December. Time: 9am– 1pm. Venue: Constantiaberg Pre-Primary School, Schoolside Rd, Meadowridge. Cost: free entry. Contact: 082 374 7191

South African National Circus School holiday academy

Christmas night market Carol singers, Christmas gift fair, children’s garden play area, eagle and owl handler, music and artisanal food offerings. 3 and 4 December. Time: Friday 5pm–10pm and Saturday 9am–2pm. Venue: Oude Libertas Stellenbosch, cnr Adam Tas and Oude Libertas Rds. Cost: free entry. Contact Karin: 021 886 8514, admin@slowmarket. co.za or visit slowmarket.co.za Festive Factory Fair Cocoon Living and Designwerkstatt invite you to a festive magic Christmas fair at their factory. Together with Biyo Shwe Shwe kids’ clothing and other local township crafters there is a great selection of children’s furniture and decoratives as well as some handmade products. 11 December.

Time: 9:30am–2pm. Venue: Heron Park, Unit 24A, Kommetjie. Cost: free entry. Contact: 074 416 7357 or info@designwerkstatt.co.za Kloovenburg Annual Christmas Market Day Stock up on produce and ideas for your Christmas table and buy the most delicious stocking fillers and presents for friends and family. Look out for the estate’s luxury body product range, delicious olives and olive oils as well as the estate’s superb wines. 18 December. Time: 9:30am–3pm.

Venue: Kloovenburg Wine & Olive Estate, Riebeek Kasteel. Cost: free entry. Contact: 022 448 1635, info@kloovenburg.com or visit kloovenburg.com Montagu Village Market Opens for business as usual every Saturday morning.

The annual night market is on 16

December 2010 / January 2011

65

calendar

Kloovenburg Annual Christmas Market Day

December and there’s an extra market on 22 December. Time: every Saturday 8:30am–12:30pm; 16 December 5pm– 9:30pm; 22 December 8:30am–12:30pm.

Cost: free entry. Contact: 023 614 3989 Nitida Farmers’ Market 28 and 29 January.

Time: Friday 5pm–9:30pm and Saturday 7:30am–12pm. Venue: Nitida Cellars, M13 Old Tygervalley Rd, Durbanville. Cost: free.

Contact Getha: 083 651 0699, getha@ nitida.co.za or visit nitida.co.za Solole Village Market sells fresh produce, delicious homemade breads and hormonefree Namibian beef. Enjoy wine tastings, the bouncy castle and face painting. Look out for buffalo, antelope or ostriches at the waterhole. Time: Sunday 10am–3pm.

Venue: Wood Rd, Kommetjie. Cost: free entry. Contact Joanne: 076 402 2333 Stellenbosch Christmas Market A variety of goods on sale such as handcrafted gifts, paintings and jewellery at 180 stalls.

A jumping castle, painting table and

66

December 2010 / January 2011

colouring facility will keep the little ones occupied. 25 November–4 December.

Time: 9:30am–8:30pm, Saturday 9:30am– 3pm. Excluding Sunday. Venue: Dutch Reformed Central Church, Stellenbosch.

Cost: free entry. Contact: 021 883 3850 or visit familiekerk.com The Quadrant Market Stalls sell everything from fresh farm produce and award-winning wines to local artworks and herbs. 4, 11, 18 December. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: Library Square, The Quadrant, Wilderness Road, Claremont. Contact Candice: 086 077 7232 or 082 802 2436

on stage and screen Angelo Rules premieres Angelo is an 11year-old boy with plenty of schemes and strategies that land him in some interesting fixes. Time: 10:30am on DStv channel 301 Annie the musical This popular Tony Award-winning Broadway musical is based on the Harold Gray comic strip Little Orphan

Annie. Ends 5 December. Time: 2:30pm, 6pm or 7:30pm. Venue: Artscape Opera House. Cost: R115–R230. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or Artscape Dial-a-Seat: 021 421 7695 Cinderella 17–24 December. Time: varies.

Venue: Artscape Opera House. Cost: R90–R175. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or Artscape Dial-a-Seat: 021 421 7695 Goldilocks and the Three Bears Lilliput Players stage this delightful children’s classic. After each show the children meet Father Christmas. Please take a gift for an underprivileged child. Ends 24 December.

Time: Monday–Saturday 10:30am. Venue: Baxter Theatre, Rondebosch. Cost: R38.

Contact: 021 558 2650, 083 364 8284 or elton@lilliputplayers.co.za Grandpa in my Pocket series 2 premieres on 6 December on CBeebies (DStv channel 306).

Suitable for children 6 and younger. Time: 9:30am and 5:30pm and continues daily.

Indlovu People 4, 5, 7, 9 December. Time: 4 and 5 December 4pm.

7 and 9 December 10am. Venue: Theatre Arts Admin Collective, Methodist Church Hall, cnr Milton Rd and

Wesley St, Observatory. Cost: children 12 years and younger R20, adults and over 12 years R40. Contact: 021 447 3683 or artsadmin@mweb.co.za Little Fockers premieres 24 December. It has taken 10 years, two little Fockers with wife Pam and countless hurdles for Greg to finally get “in” with his father-in-law, Jack.

Rumpelstiltskin Showing 5–15 January. Time: Monday–Saturday 10:30am. Venue: Baxter Theatre. Cost: R38. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or contact Elton: 021 558 2650, 083 364 8284 or elton@ lilliputplayers.co.za. For more info: visit lilliputplayers.co.za

magazine cape town

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

After Greg takes a job moonlighting for a drug company, however, Jack’s suspicions about his favorite male nurse come roaring back. Showing at all major cinemas.

Lollos, the friendly creature of Lala-land, returns to earth to visit her friends. Afrikaans show. For children 0–6 years. 4 December.

Time: 10am. Venue: Dorpstraat Restaurant Theatre, R44, Klapmuts, Summerhill Wine Farm, Stellenbosch. Cost: R45. Contact Anita: 021 889 9158 or visit dorpstraat.co.za Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs 11– 23 December. Time: Monday–Saturday 10:30am (excluding 16 December). Venue: Artscape Theatre Foyer. Cost: R40 each.

Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or Artscape Dial-a-Seat: 021 421 7695 Spud premieres on 3 December. Showing at all major cinemas.

The Cape Dance Company celebrates its 15th anniversary featuring works by top

magazine cape town

international and local choreographers, performed by an ensemble of superb dancers. Ends 4 December. Time: 8:15pm. Venue: Artscape Theatre, Foreshore. Cost: R100–R150.

Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or Artscape Dial-a-Seat: 021 421 7695 The Snowman premieres 24 December. One snowy Christmas Eve, a little boy builds a snowman.

At the stroke of midnight, he awakes and is astounded to find that his snowman is alive! Showing at 6pm on CBeebies: DStv channel 306

playtime and story time Bloubergstrand Library story time certain Mondays and Wednesdays. Call to enquire. Ideal for 8- and 9-year-olds but the library does accommodate older children.

Time: from 3pm. Venue: Andrew Foster Rd, Bloubergstrand. Cost: free. Contact: 021 554 1641 Book Lounge story time 4, 11, 18 December. Time: 11am. Venue: 71 Roeland St, Cape Town. Cost: free. Contact: 021 462 2425, booklounge@gmail.com or visit booklounge.co.za Brackenfell Library story time every Wednesday, excluding school holidays.

Activities included. For children 3 years and older but can accept younger children.

Time: 10:30am–11:30am. Venue: Paradys St. Cost: free. Contact: 021 980 1261

Story time at the library

Durbanville Library story time first Thursday of the month. Time: 10:30am– 11am. Venue: Oxford Rd. Cost: free.

Contact: 021 970 3094 Eikendal Library story time every Tuesday and Thursday. Time: 10:30am–11:30am.

Venue: Van Riebeeck Way, Kraaifontein.

Cost: free. Contact: 021 980 6160 Folio Books story time Suitable for ages 3–9 years. 4 December and 8 January.

Time: 10:30am. Venue: Folio Books, 207 Main Rd, Newlands, opposite Westerford High. Cost: free. Contact: 021 685 7190 or foliobooks@storm.co.za Hout Bay Library story time every Friday for children 2–5 years. They normally show a movie after the story. Time: 10am–

11am. Venue: Melkhout Crescent. Cost: free. Contact: 021 790 2150 Jimmy Jungles Indoor Adventure Playground Time: Monday–Sunday 9am.

Venue: Bellville and Claremont. Cost: from R35. Contact: 021 914 1705 or info@ jimmyjungles.co.za Kidz Discovery Club Age-appropriate, baby-and-toddler and mother-and-child groups. Art and tactile exploration, language, fine and gross motor development, visual motor play and experiments. For children 3 months to 4,5 years. Time and cost: call to enquire.

Venue: The Drive, Camps Bay. Contact Kathy: 083 654 2494, info@kidzdiscovery. co.za or visit kidzdiscovery.co.za

December 2010 / January 2011

67

calendar Kloof Street Library story time and activities 13 December: Christmas stories and decorations 3pm–4pm. 17 December: face painting 10:30am–11:30am. 20 December: Christmas story and activities 3pm–4pm. Contact: 021 424 3308 Kraaifontein Library Afrikaans and English story time for children from 2–10 years. Call Nelia to enquire beforehand.

Time: Wednesday 10am. Venue: Brighton Rd. Contact: 021 980 6209 Rondebosch Library story time every Wednesday and Friday for preschoolers from 3–5 years. Time: 10am. Venue: St Andrews Rd. Contact: 021 689 1100 Somerset West Library For more info contact children’s librarian Paige: 021 850 4458 or 021 850 4526/7

sport and physical activities Action Paintball Time: Monday–Sunday 9:15am–12:45pm or 1:15pm–4:45pm.

Venue: Tokai Forest. Cost: call to enquire.

Contact: 021 790 7603, info@actionpursuit. co.za or visit actionpaintball.co.za Die Burger Cycle Tour 5 December.

Time: tbc, visit their website for details.

Venue: start and finish Stellenbosch High School. Cost: 98km R190, 44km R90, 15km family fun ride R50. Discount for PPA members. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. For more info: visit dieburgercycletour.co.za Full moon hike to the top of Klapmutskoppie to see the sun set over Table Mountain and the full moon rise over the winelands. 21 December. Time: 6:30pm. Venue: Dirtopia Trail Centre, Delvera Farm, R44 to Stellenbosch. Cost: adults R50, children under 10 years R20.

Contact: 021 884 4752, theteam@dirtopia. co.za or visit dirtopia.co.za KidsNia pilot classes Nia offers your child the ability to discover how to move in their own body to improve bones, muscles and whole body dynamics. Selfexpression is nurtured, incorporating each child’s abilities and exploring their own potential. Age groups: 3–5 years, 6–9 years and 10–12 years. Time: every Wednesday 3:45pm–4:30pm. Venue: OurNiaSpace, The Nia South Africa Studio, 10 Anson St, Observatory. Cost: R30 per child for the first class and R60 thereafter. Contact: 084 607 4093, acibrario@vodamail.co.za or visit nianow.com/andrea-cibrario

Die Burger Cycle Tour

68

December 2010 / January 2011

Lebanon Family MTB Fun Ride

Lebanon Family MTB Fun Ride 12 December. Time: 8:30am. Venue: Oak Lane Cottages, Elgin Valley, Grabouw. Cost: R35–R80, depending on distance. Contact Dirtopia: 021 884 4752, theteam@dirtopia. co.za or visit dirtopia.co.za New Year’s Eve sunset hike Start a special evening with a glass of bubbly or juice after hiking around 5km to see the stunning sunset views. 31 December.

Time: 6:30pm. Venue: Dirtopia Trail Centre, Delvera Farm, R44 to Stellenbosch. Cost: adults R80, children under 10 years R40.

Contact: 021 884 4752, theteam@dirtopia. co.za or visit dirtopia.co.za Sporting Academy holiday clinics in soccer, cricket, swimming, dancing and horse-riding. For 5–13 years. 13–17 and 20–23 December. 20–23 January. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: southern suburbs. Cost: from R100 per day. Contact: 084 777 1212 or sportingacademy@gmail.com Sporting Chance holiday coaching clinics Get your child training in cricket and soccer. 13–17 December and 10– 14 January. Venues: Newlands, WPCC; Constantia, Constantia SC; Bellville, Kenridge; Somerset West, Beaumont PS. Cost per week: 10–12 years R400. 9–13 years R440. 4–5 years R320. Enquire about family rates. Contact: 021 683 7299, admin@sportingchance.co.za or visit sportingchance.co.za Sunscene sandboarding day 17 December. Time: 10am–1pm. Venue: Atlantis sand dunes. Cost: children R180, adults R220. Price includes equipment, expert instruction, refreshments and an entry permit. Contact Nichole or Jessica: 021 783 0203 or info@sunscene.co.za Table Mountain Traverse Take the cable car up, hike across to MacLear’s Beacon, explore the central table and hike all the way across and down Constantia Nek. 5 December. Contact Dolores: 021 785 2191 or DoloresDonovan@gmail.com The Ice Station Time: varies, see website.

Venue: GrandWest Casino. Cost: R25–R38.

Spectators R10. Contact: visit icerink.co.za Totalsports Challenge 8 January. Time: Totalsports, 6am; Terra Firma, 7:45am.

Venue: starts in Gordon’s Bay, ends in Kleinmond. Cost: from R456. Enter online: totalsports.co.za or visit stillwatersports. com. For more info: 021 511 7130 magazine cape town

Evita the musical

only for parents classes, talks and workshops Accredited CPR and first-aid course Time: selected Wednesdays and Saturdays 9:30am–3pm. Venue: Cape Town MediClinic, Hof St, Gardens. Cost: R220, including manuals. Contact: 084 593 2314 or danola@mweb.co.za Learn CPR and save a life Paediatric nursing sister Lee-Ann White runs a CPR course for parents, childminders and au pairs. Discovery Health members earn Vitality points for attending. 22 and 29 January. Time: 10am–12pm. Venue: Pinelands. Cost R220. Contact Lee-Ann: 021 531 4182 or 072 283 7132 Mosaic Academy beading workshop 6 December. Time: 9am–11:30am. Venue: Hout Bay. Cost: R190 per person, including materials. Contact: 072 372 1047, info@ elke-losskarn.com or visit elke-losskarn.com Sisterhood morning 4 December. Time: 8:30am and 10:30am. Venue: CTICC. Cost: free. For more info and to RSVP: visit hillsong.co.za The Scrapbook Classes run 2–9 December, excluding 8 December. Time: varies according to date. 9:30am–12:30pm, 10:30am–1:30pm or 6pm–9pm. Venue: The Scrapbook, Shop 6, Belvedere Square, Belvedere Rd, Claremont. Cost: varies.

Contact: 021 674 6425 or scrapbookct@ webafrica.org.za

on stage and screen Breyani by David Kramer 7–31 December. Time: Monday–Saturday 8:15pm, 24 December 6pm, 31 December 9:30pm. Cost: from R95. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Elvis Tribute Show 3 December–15 January. Time: Wednesday–Saturday 8pm.

New Year’s Eve show begins at 10:30pm.

Venue: GrandWest Roxy Revue Bar. Cost: R67. New Year’s Eve show costs R120. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Evita The Musical After it enjoyed huge success on London’s West End, this worldrenowned musical is presented in South Africa by Pieter Toerien. The story brings to life the dynamic, larger-than-life persona of Eva Perón. 23 November–8 January. Time: Monday 7:30pm, Tuesday–Friday 8pm, Saturday 5pm and 8:30pm. Venue: Theatre on the Bay, Camps Bay. Cost: R125–R295.

Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or theatre box office: 021 438 3300 magazine cape town

Harbour A Kalk Bay musical written by Seymour Howe. 5–22 January. Time: Wednesday–Saturday 8:30pm. Venue: Kalk Bay Theatre. Cost: R100. To book: 073 220 5430 Joe Barber 5 School Cuts Take out your old school uniforms, tie your hair in pony tails, pull up your socks and pack your toebroodjies as comedy legends David Isaacs and Oscar Petersen return for one last season of the smash-hit comedy. 30 November–15 January. Time: Tuesday– Saturday 8pm. Excluding 25 December and 1 January. Venue: Baxter Theatre.

Cost: Tuesday–Thursday R100, Friday and Saturday R110. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Womb Tide A story that follows an eccentric and somewhat dysfunctional family through a story of love, loss and hope. Ends 4 December. Time: 8:15pm. Venue: Baxter Golden Arrow Studio. Cost: R50–R95. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com or contact the Baxter Sales office: 021 680 3962

out and about Classic Car and Bike Show 22 and 23 January. Time: 10am–4pm daily.

Venue: Timour Hall Villa, Timour Hall Rd, Plumstead. Cost: adults R20, children under 12 years free. For more info: visit classiccarandbikeshow.co.za Fragile Earth glass exhibition Glass is fascinating, with its fragility and strength and ability to reflect and refract colour in exquisite and unique ways. A collection of soils, terra and terroir is incorporated into the concept.

In the glass, Jeannette uses volcanic molten temperature to catalyse colour. 1 December.

Time: Monday–Sunday 10am–6pm. Venue: The Gallery, Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate, Main Rd, Franschhoek. For more info: 021 876 8600 or visit grandeprovence.co.za or artunite.com J&B Metropolitan Stakes 29 January.

Time: tbc. Venue: Kenilworth Race Course.

Cost: R165. To book: visit webtickets.co.za Music Under the Stars Bring a picnic basket (no alcohol) or buy snacks and drinks at the venue. 4, 11, 18 December.

Time: Saturday 7pm–10pm. Venue: Library Square, Wilderness Rd, Claremont. Cost: R50. Contact: 0860 777 232 Quiz Nights at the Toad The quiz master will challenge teams on current affairs, geography, science and nature, history, sport, art and literature and an almost impossible question. Double up on your strongest category and take on the challenge to win great prizes.

December 2010 / January 2011

69

calendar 7, 14 December and 11, 18, 25 January.

Time: every Tuesday 7:30pm. Venue: The Toad, Noordhoek Farm Village. Cost: R20 to the quiz master. Contact: 021 789 2973 or visit noordhoekvillage.co.za

support groups Autism Action Cape Town Contact: 078 578 7958, info@autismaction.co.za or visit autismaction.co.za Autism South Africa For more info: 021 557 3573, info@autismsouthfrica.org or visit autismsouthafrica.org CANSA Contact: 0800 22 66 22 (toll-free) or 021 689 5381 (8am–4:30pm weekdays), info@cansa.org.za or visit cansa.org.za Childhood Cancer Foundation of South Africa (CHOC) helps parents to meet other parents and survivors. For more info: visit choc.org.za Depression and Anxiety Support Group Call a counsellor Monday to Sunday 8am–8pm. Contact: 011 262 6396 or for a suicidal emergency contact: 0800 567 567.

For more info: visit sadag.co.za Down Syndrome SA 0861 369 672, dssaoffice@icon.co.za or visit downsyndrome.org.za Little People of South Africa (Cape Town) supports those with dwarfism as well as their families. Time: 2pm every third Saturday of the month. Venue: Bethany Fellowship, 225 Lansdowne Rd, Claremont.

Cost: free. Contact Rachelle: 082 366 8074, rachellekvanstaden@gmail.com or littlepeopleofsouthafrica@gmail.com SpiritedKidZ LearnsPace committed to those with learning differences and physical challenges. Contact: 082 854 1300, info@spiritedkidz.za.org or visit spiritedkidz.za.org The Compassionate Friends of Cape Town Offers friendship and understanding

to bereaved parents. Contact: 0861 227 464 or support@tcfcape.co.za The Disabled Children’s Action Group Venue: 16 Broad Rd, Wynberg.

Contact: 021 797 5977 or visit boudoirliveproductions.co.za

bump, baby & Tot in tow

classes, talks and workshops Little Cooks Club holiday cooking lessons Fun-filled cooking and craft activities for 2- to 6-year-olds. 14 December.

Time: 10am–11am. Venue: 3 Vlei St, Aurora, Durbanville. Cost: R80. Contact Lisa: 073 227 3404 or lisab@littlecooksclub.co.za Me-a-Mama antenatal classes Starts first Saturday of each month and runs for four weeks. Fun, interactive and sociable antenatal classes with midwife Emma Numanoglu prepare you for whatever labour option you choose as well as for the early days at home with your baby. Time: Saturday 10am–12pm. Venue: Rondebosch.

Cost: R900. Contact: antenatal@meamama. co.za or visit meamama.co.za Parent Centre Moms-to-be and moms and babies group. 9 December. Reopens 13 January. Time: Thursday 10am–12pm.

Venue: Kingsbury Hospital, Maternity Section, 2nd floor, Wilderness Rd, Claremont.

Cost: R35, includes refreshments. Contact: 021 762 0116, zaiboe@theparentcentre. org.za or visit theparentcentre.org.za Post-natal classes and nanny training Time: Monday 2pm–4pm, Wednesday 2:30pm–4:30pm. Venue: Intercare Medical Centre, Parklands. Cost: R1 350. Contact: 084 593 2314 or danola@mweb.co.za Sign language for hearing babies Classes that help bridge the communication gap between baby and parent, minimising frustration until they find the words. 14 December and 27 January. For children 3 months to 2 years. Time: 9:30am–11:30am.

Venue: Protea Valley, Bellville. Cost: R560, includes starter pack. Contact Clea: 084 207 6900 or clea@babyhands.co.za The Mama Bamba Way Weekend Workshop Birth preparation classes; partners and babies welcome. The course comprises 15 hours of group instruction.

11–12 December. 22–23 January. Time: 10am–5pm daily. Venue: Mama Bamba, 101 St James Place, 39 St. James St, Vredehoek. Cost: R1 500 per couple for two-day weekend. Contact: 021 461 8257, robyn@mamabamba.co.za or visit mamabamba.co.za

playtime and story time Joe Barber 5 School Cuts

70

December 2010 / January 2011

Bizzy Bodies A huge area to run, jump and develop motor skills. For 0–12 years.

Children under 15 months enter free if

The Mama Bamba Way Weekend Workshop

parents use the coffee shop. Time: Monday– Sunday 10am–5pm. Venue: 23 Bell Crescent, Westlake Business Park, Tokai. Cost: R30–R40.

Contact: 021 702 0505, info@bizzybodies. co.za or visit bizzybodies.co.za Clamber Club These groups are divided into three age groups for children between 9 months and 3 years. For more info: visit clamberclub.com Jimmy Jungles has secure facilities for toddlers and children from 6 months of age. Time: Monday–Sunday 9am. Venue: Bellville and Claremont. Cost: from R35.

Contact head office: 021 914 1705 or info@jimmyjungles.co.za Kloof Street Library toddler Christmas story time followed by decorating the Christmas tree. 14 December. Time: 9:30am–10:30am. Contact: 021 424 3308 Me-a-Mama pram power hour Postnatal fitness workout with your pram. Shed your pregnancy weight, have fun in the elements with your baby and meet other moms. Time: 10:30am and 3pm. Venue: Monday, Wednesday, Friday in Constantia and Mouille Point. Cost: first session free, then R410 per month. Contact: fitness@ meamama.co.za or visit meamama.co.za Observatory Library story time every Wednesday for children 1–4 years. Time: 11am–11:30am. Venue: Station Rd. Cost: free. Contact: 021 447 9017 Planet Kids An ecofriendly, indoor play and activity centre that welcomes children with disabilities. Time: Monday– Sunday 10am–6pm. Venue: 3 Wherry Rd, Muizenberg. Cost: from R30. Contact: 021 788 3070 or visit planetkids.co.za Plinka Plonka Play Indoor play area.

Time: summer weekdays 9am–5:30pm, weekends 9am–1pm.

Venue: 171 Buitenkant St, Gardens. Cost: children under one year enter free, one year and older pay R40 for the first hour. Contact: 021 465 0503, playatplinkaplonka@gmail. com or visit plinkaplonkaplay.com Scallywags Play Café has a separate play area for children under 3 years.

Time: Monday–Saturday 9:30am–5pm.

Venue: Scallywags Play Café, 44 Belvedere Rd, Claremont. Cost: R45 for unlimited play, siblings R35. Contact Lindsay: 021 671 5988, 083 662 8414 or info@ scallywagsplaycafe.co.za Seapoint Library story time Every Wednesday 10am–11am for preschoolers and younger. Venue: Main Rd, Glengariff. Bring a photocopy of the baby’s birth certificate so that they can become a member of the library. Contact: 021 439 7440/1 The Playshed has a baby coupé, a special place for under 3 years. Time: Tuesday– Sunday 9am–5pm. Venue: Oude Molen Eco Village, Pinelands. Cost: call to enquire.

Contact: 021 801 0141/2 or playshed@ gmail.com

support groups Adoption Support Group for parents wanting to adopt or who have adopted.

Time: Wednesday 7:30pm–9:30pm.

Venue: Rondebosch. Cost: tbc. Contact Jean: 084 685 4839 or ct.adoption. support@gmail.com Hi Hopes Home-based support for families with deaf children. For children 0–3 years.

Once a week for an hour. Cost: free.

Contact Renee: 021 938 6066, 076 891 8188 or devilliers.renee@gmail.com La Leche League breastfeeding support groups Pregnant and nursing mothers are welcome. Time: 10am. Venue: varies. Cost: free entry. For more info: visit llli.org Post-natal Depression South Africa For more info: pndsa.co.za SA Preemies Support group for parents of premature babies. Contact: 080 773 3643, 012 333 5359, support@preemiesforafrica. org or visit sapreemies.co.za

how to help Bread tags for wheelchairs project This year alone, the simple act of saving and recycling bread tags ensured that more than 70 wheelchairs were donated to paraplegics who were unable to afford their own means of getting around. The Polystyrene Council has placed 396 collection boxes at schools, retirement villages, libraries, community centres and businesses throughout South Africa. Coordinators have volunteered their time and services to collect the bread tags, and large corporates such as Sasko and Kwikloc also became involved. High density Polystyrene has good recycling market value.

Apart from having collection boxes in their reception areas, Sasko and Kwikloc recently pledged to donate two wheelchairs for every one wheelchair bought with the bread tags. For more info on how to get involved: info@polystyrenepackaging.co.za

magazine cape town

Buckets of Love The Buckets of Love campaign runs until 31 December. The Catholic Welfare and Development (CWD) aims to feed 8 000 impoverished families in the greater Cape Town area. A Bucket of Love feeds a family of four for one week over the festive season. R120 sponsors a Bucket of Love. Contact: 021 425 2095, bucketsoflove@cwd.org.za or visit cwd.org.za to donate online.

Centre of Hope and various other ministries and compassion services in the Breede River Valley care for the poor by running Sunday morning church services, a Sunday school and youth ministries, and providing food and assistance. They need financial support, food products, clothing, bedding, toiletries, baby nappies, household cleaning products, educational toys, schoolwear, books, 10 computer keyboards, 10 computer mice for the electronic study classroom and matric farewell dresses. For contributions, contact Alida: 023 626 2226 or 082 896 3435 SPCA 2011 African Dawn Calendar is being sold in an effort to raise funds for our furry friends at the SPCA. Money raised goes towards the outreach and sterilisation programmes. Calendars are R150. For more info: orders@underanafricansky.co.za or visit underanafricansky.co.za Wishtree Project This year, Tyger Valley Shopping centre has chosen Helping Angels and Ruyterwacht Preparatory School as beneficiaries of their Wishtree Project. They need help in collecting over 250 gifts. Choose a tag from the Wishtree and purchase the “wish” on the tag. The tag is activated on 8 December. Wrap your gift at any of the two free wrapping stations and place it back under the tree.

They deliver the gifts on 20 December.

For more info: 021 914 1822 or mdewet@ primelife.co.za

it’s party time

SPCA 2011 African Dawn Calendar

don’t miss out!

For a free listing, email your event to lucille@childmag.co.za or fax it to 021 462 2680. Information must be received by 5 January 2011 for the February issue, and must include all relevant details.

No guarantee can be given that it will be published.

magazine cape town

December 2010 / January 2011

71

it’s party time continued...

72

December 2010 / January 2011

magazine cape town

magazine cape town

December 2010 / January 2011

73

last laugh

is your child your conscience?

Does it really matter who keeps who on the straight and narrow, asks SAM WILSON.

74

December 2010 / January 2011

you? And how is this different?” Nineyear-olds can have a very strong sense of injustice.

(Me? Still pretending to be asleep.)

“And Mom? That’s your fake snore,” said Joe, sternly. “No-one’s buying it.”

(Dammit.)

Now, this kind of thing has happened before in my home. But, I was telling one of my friends about it and she shook her head sternly at me.

“Sam, that’s terrible. We don’t want our children to be our consciences,” she said with a dismissive wave to my parenting skills.

I spent the requisite amount of time feeling appropriately chastened (read two days) before it occurred to me that I don’t actually agree with that sentiment.

Why shouldn’t my boys chip in on the collective conscience front? We try to be our sons’ consciences where appropriate, but both Dreas and I are pretty anti being

dictatorial – we’re bigger on discussion than declaration.

Just yesterday we had a rather vigorous debate as to whether we should continue ordering large pizzas for Pizza Party Night each Wednesday, enabling us all to have pizza for breakfast and lunch as well.

“But it saves on washing up! And cooking! And peanut butter!” argued Benj.

“And, and... we all really love pizza!”

“I know, I know. I thought those things too,” I conceded, “until I realised that we eat pizza for an entire day every week, which means we eat pizza nearly 15 percent of the time. That can’t be good.”

“In fact,” said Dreas,” I think it’s actively bad.”

“I see what you mean,” said Joe, glumly. “It’s more like Pizza Party Day, isn’t it?”

And there was reluctant agreement all round.

Now that the boys are big enough to have their own morals and opinions, I am not sure why they shouldn’t speak up when we, er, slip up. Because slipping up is part of human nature, we aren’t going to “parent” them out of that. But we can try to teach them to face up to stuff they may not be handling so well. (Read: eating all the pies.) And, surely, letting them draw attention to our own flaws and – this is the tricky bit – being seen to value their comments, is the best way to do that?

Sure, I have more experience than my children, but I don’t believe that makes me necessarily a better judge of right and wrong. I’m just old enough to take my own gut feelings more seriously.

And maybe that, in essence, is the core skill we should be trying to teach.

Sam Wilson is the Editor-in-Chief of Women24, Parent24 and Food24. She’s also genuinely distraught about this new pizza decision.

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPH: Andreas SpÄth

b

enj clattered into our bedroom one morning, after Andreas and I had been out clubbing for a sizeable portion of the night.

“Oh good grief,” he said crossly, as he plopped himself on the corner of the bed.

“Joe, come and look at this!”

Joe hurried in, took one look and started tut-tutting too. The foot of our bed was strewn with empty pie packets, and each of our bedside tables sported a giant can of Coke.

“Mommy and I were very hungry after a night of dancing and the garage shop was the only place open!” said Andreas defensively. “We know it was bad, but...”

(I was pretending to be asleep.)

Benjamin cut Andreas off with a dismissive wave.

“That’s not an excuse,” he said. “You could have made sandwiches when you got home. You were just too lazy. You wouldn’t let us eat midnight pies, would

Joe, Sam and Benj