Child Magazine | Cape Town May 2012

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

let’s

party your one-stop guide to planning the perfect day party 101 – be the hostess with the mostest fun ideas and themes for all ages

www.childmag.co.za

May 2012

free

health

bake a creative cake with love great ways to remember the occasion

education

entertainment

Celebrate with us as we commemorate a new record – we now reach 177 000 parents every month!

May is always a time for joyful celebration at Child magazine. This year we have plenty to party about! After nearly nine years of publishing Child magazine in Cape Town and Joburg, this month we launch in Pretoria. I grew up in Pretoria and my mom, at 75, is still teaching there, so it’s great to go back to my roots, so to speak. Welcome to all our new Pretoria readers. We trust you will come to enjoy and rely on us, as many parents in Cape Town, Joburg and Durban do. Child magazine Durban also joins the party this month – it’s our fifth birthday in the city! So, it’s poppers and party hats all round. As usual, our gift to you every “Let’s Party” issue is the Ultimate Party Guide – featuring everything you may be looking for, from balloons and ball ponds to pirate ships and pamper parties. You’ll also find wonderful party themes, games and cake recipes for every age, stage and season. Make sure you hang on to this issue, because we’ve made sure that if you are planning a party, this is your one-stop shop.

Have a happy May.

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

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Office address: Unit 7, Canterbury Studios, 35 Wesley Street, Gardens, Cape Town. Tel: 021 465 6093, fax: 021 462 2680, email: info@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.

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May 2012

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contents

may 2012

26 upfront 3

11 best for baby – chew on this

a note from lisa

12 dealing with difference

6 over to you

readers respond

Glynis Horning investigates both sides of the controversial Ritalin debate

26 resource – the ultimate party guide

features 16 the big day

i f your baby swallows some soil, don’t panic. Anél Lewis explains

L ucille Kemp offers party suggestions for the different ages and stages

20 it’s my party

in this new book full of party theme ideas, Arina du Plessis and Bernice van

der Merwe give you some inspiration

a list of everyone and everything that can help you create the best birthday party for your child. Compiled by Lucille Kemp

40 a good read

new books for the whole family

24 always something there to remind me

Lucille Kemp suggests innovative ways to preserve special memories

39 party etiquette

who to invite, when and how? Anél Lewis gives some tips

regulars

20

8 wins 10 upfront with paul

children are individuals and should be treated accordingly, says Paul Kerton 42 what’s on in may

50 anél’s finishing touch

24

Anél Lewis promises to remember entertainment for the children at her daughter’s second birthday party

classified ads 44 family marketplace

this month’s cover images are supplied by:

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May 2012

Joburg

Cape Town

Durban

Pretoria

Accessorize www.accessorize.co.za

shutterstock.com

Christie Lee Mann www.colleensevitz.co.za

shutterstock.com

magazine cape town

magazine cape town

May 2012

5

letters

over to you

the smacking debate Lisa Lazarus’s article, “spare the rod” (March 2012), was shocking to read. It is hard to believe that in this day and age parents still contemplate whether to hit their children, or not. The author asks the question “what is a suitable form of punishment?” My question is: why is punishment needed at all? Then mothers are quoted who justify corporal punishment: “redirecting a child’s action”, “stop a child in his tracks” and “punishing a purposefully defiant” child. Aren’t there better and more loving ways to get a child to cooperate? And even if children do not cooperate, does that mean we are allowed to hurt them physically and emotionally?

I find it hypocritical to state, “… it is beneficial to associate danger with a short, sharp pain… from a loving parent”. How is hitting another person loving?

Not only is there enough evidence that the brain can’t learn anything if in a state of fear or pain, but there is also a moral implication: how would you feel if your “loving” spouse hit you because you did something he or she did not approve of? You would most likely call it abuse. Parenting should be about trust and faith, not about outdated notions of discipline, including “timeouts”, threats and punishments.

Angela Kersten

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May 2012

As the writer of the article, I just wanted to make a few comments. Because of the contentious nature of this topic, part of my brief required that I include both sides of the debate (including interviews with parents who both supported and didn’t support smacking).

Child magazine also made it clear in their brief that they don’t condone smacking, for any reason. There is a great deal of research on this topic. Bear in mind that almost all psychological research can be criticised methodologically (i.e. there are problems in the way the study is set up). Understandably, it is very difficult to research people.

I chose the Gunnoe study for a number of reasons: (1) it’s longitudinal, meaning the research will be conducted over a long period of time (20 years if I remember correctly), and will track the children during this period; (2) it included a control group of the “never been hit”, which allowed the researchers to make comparisons (sadly, it is a relatively new phenomenon for children never to have been smacked – hence, the difficulty in finding such a control group); (3) I could include Po Bronson’s interpretation of the findings (namely: it’s not smacking that is good, but consistent discipline),

and lastly, (4) the findings were interesting, relatively recent and worthy of debate. Gunnoe has published previously in the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine (visit ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9265877) on aggression and smacking.

Many parents do support smacking. Presumably, they have thought through their behaviour and their responses to their child, and, as such, the article was also addressed to them. It would be patronising in the extreme to assume that such parents know not what they do. On the other hand, child abuse is rampant in this country, and a mild smack, under very controlled conditions, as articulated by the psychologist in the article, needs to be strongly differentiated from any other violent physical act towards children. I would also like to point out that both psychologists whom I interviewed did not support the smacking of children. Personally I also don’t support smacking as an appropriate form of discipline. However, I believe that it is a topic worth discussing, and that there are a variety of legitimate opinions that deserve airing, without shutting down the debate with absolutes.

Lisa Lazarus

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ritalin should not be first choice I am a mother of a two-and-a-half year old, as well as a teacher at a preprimary school, have a degree in psychology and sociology, and I am a qualified facilitator for children with learning disabilities. I myself have ADD, and a mild form of dyslexia, and have struggled with concentration and focus most of my life. I could not agree more with Liz’s letter “don’t contaminate our children with drugs” (February 2012). Teachers and doctors are far too quick to label and medicate. Ritalin may work for some people, but I feel it is merely putting a Band-Aid on the problem rather than correcting it. There are other therapies that improve concentration without medication. There are also study techniques that improve test results and games you can play with your child that will improve their memory and listening skills, and enhance their self-confidence.

Jo-Ann

money-making scheme In response to Granny’s letter, “the odd ones out” (April 2012), she has a strong point. My eldest son is four and recently started preprimary school. When it came to deciding on extramurals, we gave him a choice of three and said he could do two. He chose to do music and soccer. Two-and-a-half months into the school term, I received a statement for his third choice. It seemed that he had been attending these classes on a weekly basis since the beginning of term and we now had to pay.

First, why are these extramurals allowed during class hours? I don’t mind collecting him 30 minutes later so he can attend extramurals. Why was he allowed to leave his class for this activity when he was not even signed up? Why do I have to pay R2 000 for school fees as well as an extra R1 500 a month for extramurals? And I’m

paying for extramurals not associated with the school.

Ultimately, I agree with Granny and it all seems to be a money-making scheme.

Roisin Losco

We have been in contact with our Australian team and they do sell up to SPF30+, which is used by the majority of people there.

Nomvelo Ngcobo Brand manager, Nivea Sun, Labello and Elastoplast

teenage drinking The article by Gary Koen, “think before you let them drink” (April 2012), clarified many things for me. I often feel pressured to blur boundaries due to peer pressure (“but mom, all my friends are...”), but reading this has made me feel justified in laying down the law and made me determined to stick to my guns for my children’s sake. This article is going to make a difference to this family.

Joy

be prepared A Saturday morning next to a river on a holiday farm, 25 minutes from the nearest town, turned into a disaster in seconds. It was with horror that we discovered our accommodation had no first aid kit on its premises and no emergency procedures in place. Thank goodness for guests who had a simple first aid kit and who helped in a life-threatening situation. Parents should remember that a first aid kit of a mild painkiller and tummy remedy will not help in emergencies. Also make sure you have the number of the nearest doctor, ambulance and hospital with you.

Diane Davidson

I do believe there’s some truth in the view that an SPF 100 is really the same as an SPF 50. I wanted to buy an SPF 100 for my face recently and was told the product is being discontinued, because anything higher than 50 makes no difference. In the end, one has to apply common sense.

My children wear long-sleeved protection and hats and we apply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming.

Tessa

Follow us on twitter.com/ChildMag and facebook.com/childmag.co.za

write to us Let us know what’s on your mind. Send your letters or comments to: marina@childmag.

You can also post a comment online at

childmag.co.za

co.za or PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. We reserve the right to edit and shorten submitted letters.

sun facts In response to the letter “here comes the sun” (December 2011/January 2012), statements, such as that a higher SPF contains too many chemicals and that Australia does not allow an SPF higher than 15, aren’t in fact true.

The opinions reflected here are those of our readers and are not necessarily held by Hunter House Publishing.

Jo-Ann

magazine cape town

May 2012

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wins

giveaways in may soak up softness Baby Soft is running an on pack promotion offering everyone the opportunity to get an instant reward with discount vouchers for Radox foam bath – making sure you delight in life’s little comforts. Look out for promotional packs with Softie the Labrador enjoying a bubble bath.

One reader stands a chance to win a Baby Soft hamper, with Baby Soft and Radox products and a spa voucher for you and a friend, all valued at R2 000. Simply enter via childmag.co.za/wins-ct and use the code “Baby Soft CT”. Your details will be made available to Baby Soft.

hip hip hooray Crazy Chameleon creates and facilitates unique and memorable themed party packages for children and adults. They cover everything from birthday parties to baby showers and kitchen teas, and will tailor the event to suit your budget. For more info: visit crazychamelon.co.za One reader stands a chance to win décor for a party of 10 children and a mini candy buffet, valued at R3 500.

Simply enter via childmag.co.za/wins-ct and use the code “Crazy Chameleon CT”. Your details will be made available to Crazy Chameleon.

play for a day Biembie Playtime Rentals specialises in hiring out play equipment for parties, festivals, fun days or other functions. Choose from swings, ball ponds, playgyms, a storybook cottage and other fun options. For more info: visit biembie.co.za Three readers stand a chance to win a one-day rental of any play equipment, valued at R700 each. This does not include delivery and/or handling fees. Simply enter via childmag.co.za/wins-ct and use the code “Biembie CT”. Your details will be made available to Biembie.

party and play The Playshed at Oude Moulen Eco Village has several exciting play zones, a coffee shop, creative party services and special party facilities with an area for adults. Children are kept entertained in this vibrant, safe and educational environment. Contact: 021 801 0141 / 2, playshed@gmail.com or visit theplayshed.co.za One reader stands a chance to win a Playshed party for 10 children, valued at R1 500, five readers can each win a voucher for five one-hour visits valued at R150, and fifteen readers each stand a chance to win a voucher for a one-hour visit valued at R30. Simply enter via childmag.co.za/wins-ct and use the code “Playshed CT”.

to enter simply visit childmag.co.za

congratulations to our March winners Elizabeth Fortune who wins with the Garden Route Game Lodge; Sue Reuther, Sanjay Mithal, Fiona Thomas and Jane Durham who each win with Protect-A-Bed®; Juliet Wood who wins a Polo voucher and Tamy Jordan, Doreen Winifred Haskins, Niki Heitor and Adiela Kariem

or post your entry to PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Entries close 31 May 2012. Only one entry per reader.

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May 2012

who each win a Piep swaddling bag.

magazine cape town

magazine cape town

May 2012

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upfront with paul

a measured approach Don’t crush your children’s individuality by comparing them to others, or by charting their progress on a

w

development chart, says PAUL KERTON.

e all have our own ideas of what our children are supposed to be and do, and how they are supposed to behave and develop by what age – roughly. When they are babies it is much easier because they have an official government-enforced percentile chart, known as the Road to Health chart, and if your baby’s weight or height veers above or below the red line for more than a nanosecond then a very enthusiastic midwife will berate you sharply about giving too much or too little food. And if it continues, social workers will be around to bundle your pride and joy into the back of a van, until you get your portions and priorities right. At that critical period of development, standards do have to be rigorously adhered to or the baby won’t make it. Period.

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May 2012

But the older the child gets the more difficult it is to predict what they should be doing by what age, as there is no official development manual. Once your child gets to three, and certainly to four, then you are definitely on your own. All the best baby books, my own included, caution against comparing your child with others or getting deflated because your son is seemingly not as agile or aggressive as the other boys on the rugby field. Parents can literally drive themselves insane fretting over little Jimmy’s lack of ball control or clumsiness on the piano when, really, it matters, but not awfully.

We all coo in awe at child prodigies who can play Ludwig van Beethoven’s “Fifth Symphony in C minor” or paint a perfect copy of Van Gogh’s “Irises” using mom’s discarded mascara brushes. True,

these are extraordinary, gifted children, but it can be exasperating watching them star on YouTube when all you crave is for your child to sit still for half an hour while they do their homework.

Yes, comparisons may be odious, but there is very little else to go on. As with talent, most children find their own level, and generally progress at a similar pace to their peers; with a few spikes and troughs. Official measurements, charts and gauges are largely replaced with personal observations mixed with school performance. An average student at a top school could very well be a top student at an average school, so there is an odd dynamic at work. At least we have moved on from the unsympathetic era of “smart children” and “stupid children” where everything was very black and white and

any child failing to score upwards of 65 percent in anything spent their week in the naughty chair. The recognition of multiple intelligences, and the blend of intelligence that makes up each of our children, has created a more measured and humane approach; allowing a child who is slow at maths to experiment with other subjects more befitting their academic strengths.

Luckily modern teachers are more alert to the signs of “failing” and provide fresh alternatives in an effort to spread the curricula love.

In the end though, what makes us all so beautifully ourselves is that unique and incredibly complex mix of intelligences and abilities that make up each individual. Let’s celebrate, rather than crush it.

Paul Kerton is the author of Fab Dad 2: From Walking to Talking... and Beyond.

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPH: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN

Saskia, Paul and Sabina

best for baby

chew on this Babies explore their world by putting things into their mouths.

ANÉL LEWIS finds out why they do this, and when you need to worry.

PHOTOGRAPH: shutterSTOCK.COM

a

ny parent of a baby or toddler will tell you that as soon as they discover their hands, “everything goes in the mouth”. My one-year-old daughter has a penchant for sucking on stones, has munched a couple of dogfood pellets and recently ingested a clump of garden soil, much to my horror. I was concerned about the germs and bacteria she was now happily popping into her mouth, but Meg Faure, co-author of Baby Sense (Metz Press), says this practice, also called mouthing, is essential for strengthening a baby’s immune system. “Putting their hands or other objects into their mouths exposes babies to manageable types and forms of germs and this allows the immunity to build up incrementally.”

Mouthing is also a natural and vital part of your baby’s development. Faure

magazine cape town

says babies will start placing their hands in their mouths from about three to four months. “Since the mouth has more tactile receptors than any other part of the body, it is used to explore the qualities of not only the hands, but any toy or foodstuff.” As your baby develops and starts to crawl, she will explore her expanding world by putting most of the objects she encounters into her mouth. Speech-language pathologist Suzanne Morris, of Virginia in the USA, explains that the mouth is your baby’s “window to the world”. By exploring a toy or object with her tongue, lips and jaw, your baby is able to discern more about its size, shape, texture, taste and weight.

Faure says while most babies will outgrow mouthing in the toddler years, it is not uncommon to see six year olds sucking the ends of their pencils.

when to worry Faure says, “The only time a mom should worry is if there is a health risk of choking or poison. If objects hold a choking risk, such as nuts or marshmallows, do not allow your

baby to eat these. Or put marbles in their mouths.” According to the Child Accident Prevention Foundation of Southern Africa (CAPFSA), most choking accidents occur between the exploratory ages of five and 18 months. If you notice that your child has put something potentially dangerous in her mouth, but hasn’t swallowed it yet, gently squeeze her cheeks and scoop out the item with your finger. If your child is choking on an object, hold her up by the heels and give her a firm slap on the back. If you suspect your child has swallowed something toxic, contact your nearest poison information centre for advice and medical treatment.

if swallowed, should also be kept out of reach. An often ignored potential hazard is the garden, which may contain poisonous plants and flowers. Plants to avoid include azaleas, daffodil bulbs, hydrangeas, lilies of the valley and clivias. If your intrepid explorer insists on testing some less than palatable substances, such as dog droppings, voice your displeasure or pull a face. Your baby will soon learn to associate the substance with a negative experience and will (hopefully) avoid it in future.

poison information centres

make mouthing safer

Red Cross War Memorial

Any object that can fit through an empty toilet roll can also be swallowed, and should be considered unsafe. Make sure cupboards containing poison substances, household cleaners and medicines are locked. Keep a look out for small objects, such as buttons, safety pins, glass, balloons or small stones that may be lying around. Magnets, which may cause serious internal damage

Children’s Hospital 021 689 5227 Tygerberg Hospital 021 931 6129 (information centre for all nine provinces) Unitas Hospital Pretoria 0800 111 2229 (toll free)

May 2012

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dealing with difference

rethinking

ritalin

Is this widely-prescribed stimulant a solution for your child’s behaviour, or a potentially dangerous substitute for a healthier diet and better parenting?

By GLYNIS Horning

a

mother describes what is becoming an increasingly common scenario in homes across South Africa and the western world. “My son was in Grade 1 when the teacher called me in,” says Lynne Visagie of Johannesburg. “She said he had concentration issues and couldn’t focus to finish work, he was getting bored and walking about disrupting the class.” Lynne immediately braced herself for the threeletter diagnosis currently handed down to an estimated one in 10 children: ADD, or attention deficit disorder. Then when an educational psychologist confirmed it, she braced herself again for the most commonly prescribed solution: Ritalin.

“Today every other child seems to be on it,” Lynne sighs. “But everything I’d heard made me totally against it. I was afraid and confused.”

While the formal definition may have helped end the punishment of many children, it has also created a label some consider stigmatising. And it’s now so liberally applied that it’s been estimated that a million children in the US alone may have been falsely diagnosed.

“The crux of the controversy is that there is still no single definitive biological, scientific test for ADHD,” says Lynne, who today runs the national office of Adhasa in Randburg. This has prompted US educator and author of Walking Targets (CreateSpace), Beverly Eakman, to protest that “children are being forced to take a drug that is stronger than cocaine for a disease that is yet to be proven”. And Dr Mary Ann Block, head of the (antipsychiatry) Citizens Commission on Human Rights and author of No More

Like many parents, Lynne was reluctant to medicate her child with a drug at the centre of considerable controversy, and for a condition that is relatively new and not clearly understood. “ADD has been around some 60 years,” says Terry Wilke, educational psychologist and former director of the Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Support Group of Southern Africa (Adhasa). It was first diagnosed as minimal brain dysfunction, then brain damage. “These children were seen as naughty troublemakers, and beaten in class or kicked out of school.” Around the 1980s, ADD was diagnosed as a separate disorder, and today the favoured term is ADHD, although you can have attention deficit (concentration problems) without hyperactivity (overactive behaviour), or with other conditions such as learning problems, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder and depression.

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May 2012

Ritalin (Block Systems), has asked: “If there is no valid test; no data proving ADHD is a brain dysfunction, why in the world are millions of children being labelled with ADHD and prescribed these drugs?” The answer that they have come up with is that it is an attempt by certain teachers and sometimes parents to control “natural childhood behaviour”, which they are unwilling or incapable of coping with, and a conspiracy by pharmaceutical companies, for which Ritalin and similar medications are a multi-million dollar industry. But what are the facts?

exploring the causes There may be no professional agreement on the cause of ADHD, yet most doctors and psychologists say studies suggest a mix of factors, from genetics to smoking and drinking during pregnancy, food additives or dietary deficiencies, magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPH & ILLUSTRATIONS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

The crux of the controversy is that there is still no single definitive biological, scientific test for ADHD.

±1 in 10 children is being labelled as ADHD

brain injury, and differences in the way children’s brains are formed or deal with neurotransmitters. “Specialised techniques indicate that ADHD is caused by insufficient levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the areas that control focus, cognitive planning and executive function, leading to distractibility, poor planning and organising and impulsive behaviour,” says Dr Johan Erasmus, a Pretoria-based developmental paediatrician with a special interest in ADHD.

Neuroimaging has shown differences in the thickness of these regions of the cortex with ADHD children, “but the clinical implications of these changes on ADHD are still not clear,” he says. “The problem with conditions of the brain is that, unlike the rest of the body, we cannot take biopsies to see what is wrong. We need to rely on indirect methods, which make diagnoses open to interpretation.” Theories for such differences therefore vary widely. Thom Hartmann, author of Complete Guide to ADHD (Underwood books), suggests that ADHD is an evolutionary adaptation, a throwback to hunter characteristics. But diet, lifestyle, family and personality are now all thought to play a part, and most professionals working with ADHD say these should be attended to before turning to medication.

could your child have ADHD? It’s natural for children to be inattentive, hyperactive and impulsive at times, but if several of the following symptoms are severe and persist, affecting your child’s progress and family life, Adhasa advises professional assessment: • unable to concentrate at school or read for more than a few minutes, • fidgety, • often sick, • generally disorganised, • easily frustrated, • struggles with social interaction, and • under-achieves.

Get professional diagnosis to eliminate other explanations: • parental conflict, divorce or separation, • abuse or bullying, • uncontrolled asthma or other allergies, • hearing or vision problems, and • stress or depression.

Your GP may suggest a child psychologist, developmental paediatrician, child psychiatrist or child neurologist. For recommendations of specialists experienced in ADHD, contact info@adhasa.co.za or visit adhasa.co.za

magazine cape town

May 2012

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dealing with difference

the Ritalin dilemma Methylphenidate, distributed as Ritalin or Concerta, increases or “stimulates” the dopamine levels that are too low, restoring focus, and functional and impulse control, says Erasmus. “It’s a stimulant, but it calms an overactive brain, so it works in children with ADHD if properly prescribed and supervised,” adds Wilke. “Sadly this isn’t always the case.”

“The dangers of medicating children who don’t need it into submission are quite tragic, and there are parents putting them on Ritalin who don’t have

an option,” says Durban clinical psychologist Robin Vanderplank, a regional coordinator for Adhasa.

Lynne was one. “My son’s school told me unless I put him on Ritalin they wouldn’t take him back. I told them, ‘You’re the teachers, and you should be able to handle him without resorting to drugs.’ Then I changed schools and started other treatments.”

how risky is Ritalin?

• hypersensitivity,

Ritalin is safe to use and has been in use for more than 60 years, says Dr Johan Erasmus, a developmental paediatrician. “Like any medication it can cause sideeffects, but these subside if the medication is stopped or the dose adjusted, and no long-term side-effect has ever been described with it. Most of the negative effects people are concerned about were seen with the injection, which was taken off the market many years ago, not the tablets, which get metabolised.” Ritalin should not be taken by children with: • high anxiety and agitation, • glaucoma, • uncontrolled epilepsy, and • motor tics or Tourette’s syndrome.

• nausea,

Recognised and reported possible side-effects are: • nervousness, • insomnia or drowsiness,

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Ritalin can have an important role in managing ADHD, but it’s only number 10 on the list of things to try.

May 2012

• loss of appetite, • weight loss, • dizziness, • headaches, • abdominal pain, • dyskinesia (involuntary movements), • blood pressure and pulse changes, and • palpitations, tachycardia, angina and cardiac arrhythmia. Ritalin, like many medications, should be used with caution by those with heart defects or abnormal heart rhythms.

“Reports of Ritalin encouraging addiction are a myth,” says educational psychologist Terry Wilke. “ADHD children not on Ritalin are more likely to use recreational drugs to ‘self-medicate’.”

“Ritalin can have an important role in managing ADHD, but it’s only number 10 on the list of things to try, including diet and exercise,” says Vanderplank (see “managing ADHD”).

Lynne passionately agrees. She put her son on a low-GI diet with omega and vitamin supplements and minimal sugar, and encouraged him to swim competitively and cycle. “He got super-fit and his focus improved, but not enough to complete tasks,” she says ruefully. When academic pressures mounted at high school, she finally agreed to try Ritalin. “It was amazing from the get-go – my boy listened, his marks improved, he blossomed. I felt guilty for not trying it earlier.”

But side-effects slowly set in. “He’d get emotional when the Ritalin wore off, then one morning he came in from a bike ride with serious heart palpitations.” She rushed him to a cardiologist and has since learnt that this is a rare side-effect of Ritalin, and children predisposed to heart problems should not take it.

Today Lynne’s son is 16 and off medication. “He still eats well, takes supplements and exercises, but he’s up and down again with the ADD.” She has the following advice for parents who call Adhasa for help. “Bottom line is that it’s a personal decision,” she says. “But I tell them Ritalin works. If your child is properly diagnosed and monitored for side-effects, go for it. I’ve seen a bad side, but I’ve also seen it can be a life-saver for some children; improving their behaviour, helping them socially and academically, and giving them the confidence to fly.”

magazine cape town

managing ADHD “At a recent ADHD world conference, every delegate agreed that medication on its own is not enough to manage the effects,” says clinical psychologist Robin Vanderplank. Adhasa supports these steps:

avoiding colourants, preservatives and other additives, as well as trans-fats and the sugar, caffeine and white flour some suspect cause spikes and dips in blood sugar levels. Adhasa also advocates professional testing for food sensitivities.

exercise This helps channel natural energy and brings mental focus by releasing feel-good endorphins.

reduce stress “This is a major contributor to ADHD, because to cope with increased stress levels we use up vitamins and minerals meant for our other important functions,” says Vanderplank.

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drink water 2 Dehydration impairs concentration; we need six to eight glasses a day. eat healthy foods Avoid fast foods high in fat and refined carbohydrates, and serve protein and unrefined carbohydrates at each meal. Encourage a child to eat often if concentration slides.

3

diet A 2011 review by researchers from the Chicago Children’s Memorial Hospital of studies on diets and supplements showed “limited evidence” that these help ADHD, says Durban-based dietician Priya Seetal.

But anecdotal accounts abound, and Adhasa advises

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take supplements 6 Our bodies can’t make essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. We get these from food, and some studies suggest today’s food is less nutritious because of soil depletion from poor agricultural practices. Give a quality omega oil supplement and multivitamin. keep a calm home “No one can think clearly and work things out when angry or upset,” says Vanderplank. “Don’t shout, rather say ‘let’s talk about this’.” Also, make sure children get enough sleep.

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encourage emotional growth “Try to see things from your child’s point of view,” Vanderplank urges.

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respond differently “Those with ADHD have challenges and opportunities on a different scale to ordinary people,” says Vanderplank. “They’re among our brightest and most innovative members of society,” adds Johannesburg psychologist Anita Decaires-Wagner. Work with professionals to learn what the unique problems are that your child needs to sort out. Explore behavioural therapy, which uses positive reinforcement to help them learn to control their impulsivity.

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use medication wisely “Ritalin may be crucial at times,” says Vanderplank, “but unless a child is in danger of abuse from frustrated parents, it should be a last resort.” Dr Johan Erasmus, a developmental paediatrician says, “If all other interventions don’t improve the child’s quality of life, medication must be considered to prevent the serious long-term consequences of inadequately treated ADHD. With it, many relationships and careers have been saved.” A study by Rodrigo Escobar, a doctor and medical researcher in Madrid, showed that the quality of life of people with untreated ADHD is much poorer than that of people with untreated asthma. “But we don’t have a problem treating asthma, even with a medication that has side-effects way more dangerous and that can be longlasting.” It’s safe if well-controlled, he adds.

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ideas

the

day

It’s your child’s birthday, and you want to celebrate it in style. LUCILLE KEMP

any say that the simplest parties are often the ones where the best time was had, so though you may feel the pressure to produce the goods on the day, you don’t need to break the bank to do so. Half the battle is won with a good, solid party theme and a little imagination. Cape Townbased working mother of three and parttime caterer, Taryn Copeman advises, “Plan ahead, pick a theme and stick to it without overdoing it. For instance, if you’ve decided on a Cars theme you can use red, black and

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white checks for décor, and maybe buy just one or two more expensive Disney-themed

Angie Cameron from Durban and mom to three-year-old Mackenzie, says the

I find the process enjoyable probably because I keep the end goal in mind – to have fun and be happy. For this I know I don’t have to go to great expense, so I don’t put pressure on myself. items to pull it together. Bake your own cake, if you can, as it makes it more personal, otherwise order well ahead of time.”

planning tends to become quite involved, so she starts organising her ideas in advance and keeps an eye out for odds

and ends when she’s at the shops. “I find the process enjoyable probably because I keep the end goal in mind – to have fun and be happy. For this I know I don’t have to go to great expense, so I don’t put pressure on myself. I’m hoping to keep my parties home-made, so my sister and I, for one, put a lot of energy into planning the cake.”

For another Durban mother, Catherine Jenkin, mom to three-and-a-half-year-old Cam, parties are strictly a family affair.

“We keep it small, and stick to Cam’s immediate family and closest friends.”

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPHs and illustrations: shutterstock.com

m

gets some tried and tested ideas from moms on how to throw a memorable party.

parties through the ages the one year old Key Their first birthday is a real milestone, but remember it’s more of a celebration for the parent.

You therefore don’t need to invite 15 one year olds, as Taryn informs me she did for her son Casey’s first birthday. As long as you’re within sight of your birthday girl or boy and the party falls in line with their sleep routine, it will be a success. Nancy Cockcroft from Cape Town kept the focus on one-year-old Georgina with a sweet gesture. She served only snacks that Georgie was able to eat and cut up foods to “Georgie-size”. Nancy says, “There were oaties, cucumber sticks, grapes, raisins, viennas and quartered sarmies. Party hats were worn to make it festive and I made cupcakes with sprinkles and put a candle on one for Georgie to blow out – more like for mom and dad to blow out – for a photo opp.”

Ideas If you want to inject a little fun into the first birthday while still keeping focus on the child, you could play dress up. One creative blogger says she dressed up her birthday baby as an eighties-inspired aerobics instructor, complete with a hand-embroidered, felt boom box.

the toddler Key Keep it simple and keep them active.

Toddlers are busy so have something that they can bounce on, slide down, twirl around or ride on. For this, all you need is your back yard and a hired inflatable apparatus, or a park where there’ll be a jungle gym, swings, a merry-go-round and seesaws.

Also focus on free play. Your toddler doesn’t sit still for long and gets sidetracked easily, so structured play, such as a craft workshop, is unlikely to work. Janine describes her son Connor’s second birthday party as a great success. “We hired a Lightning McQueen jumping castle with attached ball pond, which the children loved and spent most of the day playing in.”

Angie’s daughter, Mackenzie, had a jungle-themed second birthday with a monkey-face cake and a home-made mural, which they worked on for three weeks. Her third birthday was a low-key picnic in the park, but it still popped thanks to the giant cupcake-style cake and the park’s resident ducks, which the children enjoyed feeding.

Barbara du Randt from Durban and mom to five-year-old Noah, says, “The most special party for me and Noah was his third birthday; when he really understood that it was his birthday and could blow out his candles for the first time.”

Ideas When it comes to a theme for this age think cars, trains, teddy bears, fairies or Barbie. Activity venues are popular, or you can entertain with a storyteller. For simple dress-up ideas, moms have done a great job transforming their daughters into princesses and toddling boys will make cute little lions.

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ideas

the preschooler Key Keep them stimulated.

Janine, currently based in Guernsey, England says, “For Connor’s fourth birthday party my husband and I made a pirate ship out of cardboard and added a plastic slide, which we already had lying around the house. They had to climb through a tunnel to get into the pirate ship and then slide down to get out. It was a huge hit. They spent most of the day in it and it cost us nothing. We had hot dog boats for lunch with fruit and chips, and I made a pirate treasure-chest cake, which Connor loved.”

Ideas A cute and stand-out dress-up idea for a boy or girl is Wall-E or you could dress them up as a bunny and let them have fun with it by showing them how to hop around.

the prep schooler Key Be on theme. Build the party’s look and feel around your child’s favourite TV character, which will probably be Hannah Montana or Ben 10.

This is really your time to get creative and think outside the box. At this stage, your child has developed his own taste and special interests, so be prepared to hear him out and don’t be surprised if you are building an entire party around a science theme or your child makes a special request for a mosaic party. Your child’s imagination is in full bloom and professional entertainers can help to consolidate the party theme and keep the children’s attention. A magician will work well. For the eighth birthday of her stepdaughter, Kyla, Taryn organised a fairy party with a real fairy entertainer playing host. At this age, your daughter is likely to invite girls only, while your son may well want to stick to boys.

Cindy Perry, Cape Town mom to eight-year-old Josh, threw a Survivor party for 20 boys that was a roaring success despite its minimal cost. The venue, a grassed park situated on a family-friendly beach, was free and the eyeball cake was home-made.

Costs were kept low by using simple items for the games, which included a wooden jigsaw puzzle, made by a friend, leopard crawl, cupto-container and water balloons. The biggest expense was probably the lucky packet prizes of tattoos, stickers and animal figurines.

Ideas Popular themes for this age group include pamper parties, boot camp and parties outside at the pool. Girls like anything that is pretty and feminine, so simply decorating the venue with polka dots or holding a fancy-dress tea party, will be a success. Boys will enjoy anything involving physical activity or a hobby. Dress up your son as a ninja, and your daughter as Madame Butterfly.

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the young teenager Key Get them involved, let them feel like the grown-ups they aren’t and reduce the guest list because at this age, they’re all about their BFFs anyway.

Your tween is asserting her independence, and is likely to make her own party request. Taryn was initially taken aback when Skyla shunned her offer of a cake and instead requested a chocolate fountain for her 11th birthday party. Another popular idea at this age is a sushi-making party.

You may want to invite your immediate family, in-laws and your daughter’s best friend’s parents to celebrate the milestone 13th birthday, so include drinks and snacks for the adults.

Ideas Your child feels like a young adult so she’ll probably want a disco, a pool party, a sleepover, a movie night, a braai or, if it’s winter, a dinner party. If you’re feeling energetic and creative, why not throw a murder mystery dinner party?

Some great ideas for girls include a make-your-own-cake party or a pamper party at a spa. Boys at this age will love a paintball party, which can also be a great winter option, or you could splash out and hire a Hummer limo to fetch your birthday boy and a few friends from school on a Friday, take them to the movies and then home for pizza and a computer game party. Volleyball with friends on the beach is also a great idea for summer babies.

the slumber party This is a popular winter party option; Cindy’s daughter has been voting for a “sleepover” party since she was 10 years old. Your daughter probably won’t invite boys at this age, but if she does there isn’t a “yes or no” rule. Do what feels comfortable and judge the specific circumstances – you don’t want to invite mischief so stick to good friends only. Trust your instinct – you’ll know if your daughter is trying to pull a fast one and if the boy is more than just a friend. Have the party guests over before the sun sets so you can have the children around the pool, serve finger foods to snack on and when it’s time to take it inside, you can play games such as freeze dance, charades, general knowledge and cotton-ball pass.

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book extract

it’s my party Take the stress out of planning your child’s special day with these imaginative ideas from Party Magic 3 For Boys and Girls by ARINA DU PLESSIS and BERNICE VAN DER MERWE.

Duckling cupcakes • 12 cupcakes • 500ml pale yellow butter icing • 4 x 250ml candied popcorn, coloured yellow • 12 pale yellow marshmallows • 24 orange or red mini Smarties • 60ml black butter icing • white marshmallows, to complete Before you begin: Cover a tray with blue paper and turn it over. Using stiff blue cardboard or foam paper, make a collar for the tray that is slightly higher than the tray itself. Cut a wavy pattern in the collar and attach it to the tray with double-sided tape. Make the candied popcorn and leave to cool completely.

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PHOTOGRAPHS: David Briers / shutterstock.com

ducks in a row

step 1 Ice the cupcakes with the yellow icing.

step 2 Cover the icing with the popcorn, leaving a space in the centre for the marshmallow.

Place a marshmallow upright on each cupcake, using more icing if necessary.

step 3 Press two mini Smarties onto the marshmallow for the beak using icing. Pipe eyes with black icing. Place the rest of the yellow icing in a piping bag with a thin nozzle and pipe a twirl of icing on each marshmallow.

step 4 Snip the white marshmallows into tiny pieces and clump them together to look like bubbles. Arrange on the covered tray.

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Set the scene Cover the table with a large yellow tablecloth and use stiff blue cardboard for place mats.

Draw small white air bubbles on each mat using white or pastel-coloured chalk. Decorate the table with pale yellow feathers (available from gift and stationery shops), balloons, blue sponges and yellow plastic bath-tub ducklings.

Duck sarmies Make cheese sandwiches using white bread and thinly sliced cheese. Use a duck-shaped cookie cutter to cut shapes from the sandwich. Lightly spread each sandwich with margarine and decorate with a tiny amount of blue cake sprinkles.

The invitation • A4 sheets of stiff blue cardboard • white corrugated cardboard • white cardboard • pinking shears • yellow foam paper • white pen • orange and black paint

Banana smoothie Blend sliced bananas, natural yoghurt and mango juice until smooth. Pour into small plastic tumblers and decorate with blue cake sprinkles. Serve with straws.

Cut a sheet of blue cardboard down the middle. Trace the shape of a bath onto white corrugated cardboard and white cardboard, and cut these out. Glue the bath to the blue cardboard. Using pinking shears, cut an oval shape out of blue cardboard and glue it onto the bath to look like water.

Cut a duckling from the yellow foam paper and glue it to the water (the duckling should look like it’s bathing). Decorate the rest of the card with a white pen. Paint orange dots on the duck’s body and a black dot for the eye. Write the party details on the back of the card.

Goody bags to take home Buy small plastic containers with lids and handles from a plasticware shop. Glue a yellow feather and a plastic duckling to the top and give each guest a container filled with a variety of yellow sweets.

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book extract

art class Painting and easel cake • 1 slab cake • wooden board, slightly larger than the slab cake • 600ml bright blue butter icing • kebab stick • 4 red liquorice rolls • 100ml each yellow, red, orange, pink and purple mini Smarties or similar sweets • jelly beans • a few candy-coated liquorice sweets in the same colours as the mini Smarties • 60ml black butter icing • 125ml green mini Smarties, yellow Smarties and Smarties Mini Eggs • Nine or 10 quantities brightly coloured sweets (such as jelly sweets, Smarties and liquorice sweets) • thick black cardboard • ruler • cardboard cutter or heavy-duty scissors • double-sided tape

step 1 Neaten the sides of the cake with a sharp knife and place in the middle of the wooden board. Cover the cake with bright blue icing.

step 2 Use the kebab stick to draw the outlines of a vase, table top and flower stems on the cake.

Start by forming the table top with the red liquorice rolls. Then cover the vase with mini Smarties, jellybeans and candycoated liquorice sweets in a pattern of your choice. Place the black icing in a piping bag with a thin nozzle and pipe around the edges of the vase.

The invitation • stiff blue, green, yellow and red cardboard • small paintbrushes • plastic water paint sets • yellow raffia Cut the cardboard into rectangles (10cm x 7cm). Punch two holes along one long side (to hold the paintbrush) and one in the middle of each short side. Make a hole at each end of the paint set. Write the party details on the back of the card. Insert a paintbrush through the holes on the long side. Thread the raffia through the holes in the paint set and the holes on the short sides of the invitation, and tie.

Deliver by hand.

step 3 Form the stems with green mini Smarties turned on their sides.

Now, make as many brightly coloured flowers as you like with the quantities of jelly sweets, Smarties and liquorice sweets.

step 4 Cut the top and legs of the easel from black cardboard and secure at both ends to the cake board and table with doublesided tape.

Place names Shop around for small blackboards in wooden frames to use as place mats. Find small pieces of wood for palettes, or buy plastic palettes. If you’re using wood, attach two wafer biscuits to each palette with butter icing. Press a few brightly coloured sweets, such as Smarties, on the biscuits to represent paint pots. Make a “paintbrush” by using a red liquorice roll and piping thin lines of black butter icing for the bristles.

Set the scene Most children love drawing and painting, and the ideal party theme for budding artists is a creative art class. Cover the table in large sheets of cardboard in different colours. Paint each guest’s name on a smaller piece of cardboard and use as place mats. Leave enough space for them to do some painting of their own. Supply water paint, crayons and brushes so that everyone can draw and paint to their heart’s content.

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building site Bulldozer cake • 1 large loaf cake • 375ml orange butter icing • 2 kebab sticks • 8-10 chocolate wafer biscuits • 125ml brown butter icing • tinfoil • 125ml small brown liquorice sweets • 125ml blue mini Smarties • 2 flat orange jelly sweets • 2 red Smarties • 2 red mini Smarties • 1 cardboard tube from a toilet roll • 2 coloured ice-cream sticks • 2 blue candy-coated liquorice sweets

step 1

step 2

Cover a cake board with paper and plastic. Evenly slice the top off the loaf cake. Cut off a third of the loaf and place this part on top of the cake, at the back.

Sandwich in place with icing and insert two kebab sticks to keep the cake in position.

Cut the sticks the same height as the cake.

Cover the entire cake with orange icing.

step 3 Shape four wafer biscuits for tracks and attach. Pipe brown icing on the inside. Cover remaining biscuits with tinfoil for windows.

Edge with brown icing, pressing in brown liquorice sweets around the windscreen. Arrange blue mini Smarties on the bonnet and use jelly sweets and Smarties for lights.

step 4 Cut open the cardboard tube and cover one half with tinfoil. Press the icecream sticks to the sides of the cake, letting them rest on the cake board.

Pipe a thin line of brown icing where they end, and place the covered tube on the icing. Fill the bucket with sweets. Finish by sprinkling coloured desiccated coconut around the cake on the cake board.

Set the scene It’s construction time! Cover the table with brown corrugated cardboard, and decorate with building blocks and toy tools. Use pale blue sponge paper for place mats, wooden cutlery and orange containers for sweets and snacks.

Packed lunches Workers on a building site work hard and have hearty appetites. Pack a lunch for each guest: a box with cubes of cheese, sausages or cold meat, sandwiches (cut into wedges) and finger veggies (such as baby tomatoes and carrots).

about the book In Party Magic 3: For Boys and Girls (Human & Rousseau), Arina du Plessis and Bernice van der Merwe suggest more than 20 creative party themes that will delight children of all ages.

There are step-by-step instructions for making the cake, ideas for the invites, décor and party food, as well as suggestions of what games to play at each party. Parents low on time will love the short cuts, tips and simple templates, and the recipes for the basic sponge cake, swiss roll and cupcake mix are easy to follow. This one-stop guide will inspire you to make your child’s next birthday the most memorable one yet.

For more party theme inspiration, click on childmag.co.za/content/ theme-recipe magazine cape town

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top tips

always something

Get into the habit of preserving special memories.

LUCILLE KEMP suggests innovative ways to make each celebration last for years to come.

Photo books are probably one of the most popular forms of displaying photos, as they are quick and easy for busy moms to set up. At 24hourphotobooks.co.za you can download and install the software you need, choose a predefined layout or custom make your own theme, auto-flow or drag-and-drop the pictures from your folder until you are happy with the layout, and then hit “order”. You will get a hard copy, but you can also share the digital version with faraway family and friends via various social networking sites.

At rapidstudio.co.za, you create and design your keepsake online in one of the following downloadable templates: the birthday calendar, a photo diary, a photo calendar, a wall or desk calendar or a photo flipper. You then buy it and Rapid Studio will print and deliver your chosen product to you.

Evernote.com is a free online journalling app that is enabled for Microsoft Windows and Apple Mac and is popular because it can be accessed on your desktop or via your cellphone, making it quick and easy to write and upload when you have the time. If you’re using Evernote as your personal journal, you can influence the text recognition and tagging to make your journal entries available to family and friends. MyMemoir is a journalling app designed for iPad, where you can import images into your journal entries and export your journalling into an e-book format, transforming each of the entries into chapters. The e-book even includes a tool that enables quick navigation through the book, which makes it very professional looking. This can be a creative way of making a big deal of your child’s birthday. Another feature of myMemoir is its ability to export your journal entries to PDF, making the birthday chronicle easy to email to loved ones.

online platform for photo creativity. Once you’ve created the slideshow, build unique text, music, animation and other special effects around it. Once you’re done, share your slideshow with family and friends through email, or add it to your blog, post it to Facebook or Twitter, or even make a DVD and have everyone enjoy the birthday fun.

Create a blog site with Wordpress and Tumblr, both web-based micro-blogging platforms. At your instruction, these blog sites can feed your posts directly to social networking sites of your choice to alert others of updates. The blog sites are easy to use and you can opt to keep entries completely private.

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PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Make a slideshow or create a collage free of charge with kizoa.com, an

there to remind me

Create a Facebook album, which can be accessed by friends and family.

Most parents have a Facebook profile just to chronicle their children’s growing up through photo uploads. It offers an immediate and easy way to keep faraway family in touch.

Your Birthday Book: A Keepsake Journal (Potter Style) starts with the first birthday and ends with their 18th celebration. Amy Krouse Rosenthal came up with this novel book, which provides fun, fast and casual birthday activities for each year as well as space to stick birthday photos and other random pictures. There are amusing and thought-provoking questions to ask your child and a place to record their answers. There is also a time-capsule envelope for stashing away odds and ends such as artwork, school papers, hand tracings, birthday cards, invitations, and other memorabilia. The journal is available at Exclusive Books.

Make a party wall. What’s the use of having all your special photos stored in a file on your computer? Print out some winning party shots from all the children’s past birthdays, including yours and your partner’s. Thrift-shop for frames to suit your home and display the photos on a wall that you’ve now reserved for birthday party pictures. You will notice that having this party wall will inspire you to get creative with the photo taking at the next birthday, and the next... Soon that wall will be alive with your memories.

Bring the moment to life and record your child’s birthday on video. Make sure you have a tripod so you can get everyone in for some special moments, such as the singing of “Happy Birthday”. Also, don’t forget to flick the audio switch so your child’s birthday party isn’t recorded as a silent event – it has happened before. Do a good edit on the recording so that the party montage flows and then copy it to DVD to send to the grandparents. Perhaps you could start a tradition where the family comes over the week after the birthday to watch the video and share a few laughs. You can also upload the video so techno-savvy relatives can access it online, on sites such as Facebook or YouTube, or via email.

There is always the good, old-fashioned chronicling of scrapbooking. For many creative people, scrapbooking is a most rewarding, time-honoured tradition; for others, it just takes too much time and can be intimidating as you can’t edit your mistakes as easily. Never fear, if you are determined to create such a treasure, unleash your creative side effectively by planning each spread before you start gluing anything and keep the end result in mind as you progress. The finished product is a memory of your child’s birthday that is full of texture and your personal touch. Typical memorabilia include photographs, printed media, artwork, and the scribbling of poems, quotes and photo captions.

A party box, with photos and mementos kept from the day, is great to have. You could include the invitation, some of the decorations, any keepsake, especially if the birthday is a milestone. The party box is especially for the sentimental parent who wants to cherish all the special moments that marked the day. To make it extra special, decorate and label the box. magazine cape town

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resource

082 Party On Rents out slush puppie machines, jumping castles, a mermaid island, gladiator and water slides, and popcorn and candyfloss machines. Can deliver.

Jumping castles from R350 per day.

Contact Enid: 082 727 8966, 082partyon@ gmail.com or visit 082partyon.co.za

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Abby’s Aquarium Adventures Customised craft kits, books and party packs. Crafter available to help at the party. Contact Heidi: 076 854 0699, abby@telkomsa.net or visit abby.co.za B-Day Parties Offers themed décor, party packs and children’s party coordinators.

Sets up children’s themed party venues.

Strand. Contact: 021 853 1727, linda@ bdayparties.co.za or visit bdayparties.co.za

BellaBagheera Customised invitations, themed or basic, party favour stickers, cupcake toppers and thank-you cards.

Contact Astrid: 021 712 8628, 071 869 2151, info@bellabagheera.co.za or visit bellabagheera.co.za Berg Toys Rent the pedal go-kart for a party. For 5 years and older. Contact Martie: 082 899 2221, Celia: 084 955 3254, info@bergtoys.co.za or visit bergtoys.co.za

Biembie Playtime Rentals Rental of play equipment such as a story book cottage and a mini roller coaster. Contact Yolande: 082 558 7554, Etienne: 072 822 1263, info@biembie.co.za or visit biembie.co.za Binding Memories Designs, prints and binds photo books for birthday party memories. Contact Greta: 021 975 1751, 082 926 5921 or greta@ bindingmemories.co.za

magazine cape town

illustrations: shutterstock.com

Having a party? Here’s who to call. Compiled by LUCILLE KEMP

Blackball Rentertainment Has rodeo bulls, slides, a surf simulator, ball ponds, video games, pool tables, soccer tables, jukeboxes, karaoke set up, saloon bar shoot out, children’s rides, disco lights and more. Contact: 021 701 1275, info@ blackball.co.za or visit blackball.co.za Bounce-About Jumping Castles Various jumping castles, water castles, slides and a Belgian-chocolate fountain. Half-day R350; full-day R600.

Contact Charmaine: 082 777 1544 or bounceabout@telkomsa.net Bouncy A variety of jumping castles and a water slide for hire. Contact: 021 976 0201, 078 605 6472, richard@bouncy. co.za or visit bouncy.co.za BouncyKidz Jumping Castles Hires out jumping castles and sells picture cakes, cupcakes, customised invitations and party packs. Northern suburbs. Contact: 084 259 4161, marcelle@bouncykidz. co.za or visit bouncykidz.co.za Bubble Ball Children can walk, run, dive and roll on water without getting wet in a Bubble Ball. On-site supervision is provided. Contact Jessica: 072 633 7097 or info@bubbleball.co.za or Lynette: 076 646 7459, lynette@bubbleball.co.za or visit bubbleball.co.za Candle Maker’s Deli Supplier of candle-making and soap-making materials. Contact: 021 552 4937, sales@ candledeli.co.za or for ideas, visit candledeli.co.za

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Candy Kids fun rides Rents big and small swings, a boat or horse carousel, mini fun trains, jumping castles and water ski rides and slides. Contact: 073 228 4180 Cape Chocolate Fountain Hires out chocolate fountains. R550–R2 200; depends on numbers and area of delivery. Contact Zanet: 083 455 4988, info@capechocfountain.co.za or visit capechocfountain.co.za Cape Creative Entertainment For henna tattoos and face painting. R250 per hour.

Extra cost if travelling out of the southern suburbs. Contact: 082 324 3741 or capefacepaint@gmail.com Cardiac – Cards from the Heart! An online stationery shop specialising in personalised event stationery and paper goods for any occasion. Contact: 082 451 0022 or carien@cardiaccards.co.za Caring Candies Manufactures sugar-free candies and chocolates without artificial sweeteners, colourants or allergens.

Contact Denise: 021 552 7575, 082 824 4418, info@caringcandies.co.za or visit caringcandies.co.za Castles4Rascals Jumping castles for hire.

From R550 excluding delivery. Contact: 083 227 8537, jump@castles4rascals.co.za or visit castles4rascals.co.za City Sightseeing Cape Town Hire a double-decker bus for a half-day (four hours). Bring your own party packs and food. Meeting place by arrangement. Join their Kids’ Club

for a birthday treat. Contact: 021 511 6000, info@citysightseeing.co.za or visit citysightseeing.co.za Craft Blanche Supplies invitations, card making and scrapbooking materials. Craft and DIY kits also available. Contact: 021 554 2290, info@craftblanche.co.za or visit crafteblanche.co.za Crafty Supplies Kits and ideas for party activities and party packs. From R2. Face paints, glitter, stencils, felt, paints and more. Kenilworth. Contact: 021 671 0286 Design a Balloon Themed décor for large and small parties as well as pyrotechnics. They also sell helium balloons. Paarden Eiland. Contact: 021 511 9676, viscreatect@mweb.co.za or visit visualc.co.za Dial-a-Surprize Online gift store sells gifts, helium balloons, cakes, party packs, flowers and hampers. Contact: 021 461 0821, hello@dial-a-surprize.co.za or visit dial-a-surprize.co.za Digi Stories – Cinematic Videography Something fun and different to capture special moments. Southern suburbs.

Contact: 073 594 7969 or tlehmens@ yahoo.com Digital Works by Annelise For all your digital design needs, such as personalised invitations, birthday banners and much more. Nationwide. Contact: 074 432 5913 or annelise@digitalworksbyannelise.co.za Flower Fusion Delivers a range of floral designs and gifts matched to your

theme. Nationwide. Contact: 031 764 2801, flowerfusion@telkomsa.net or visit flowerfusionflorist.co.za Funky Bananas Sells themed décor and cakes, and hires out jumping castles, candy floss, popcorn and bubble machines.

Contact Parklands: 021 556 7808, Durbanville: 021 976 3061, Brackenfell: 021 981 9844, info@funkybananas.co.za or visit funkybananas.co.za Funtasia Party Décor Helium balloons, costume rental, tables, chairs, tablecloths, party boxes and more. Helium balloons R6, party packs R12, chairs R5 rental, themed plates from R39,95 and serviettes from R19,95. Contact: 021 914 6935, funtasiaparties@telkomsa.net or visit funtasiapartydecor.co.za Fusion Function Design For custommade stationery, décor and accessories.

Free quote. Contact Louisa: 082 680 9902, info@fusionfunctiondesign.co.za or visit fusionfunctiondesign.co.za Gelli Baff A powder that turns pool water into jelly-like goo and back again. Contact Wendy: 086 111 2006, wendy.ekman@ altiustrading.com or visit gellibaff.co.za Giggles & Jiggles Hires out jumping castles, waterslides, ball ponds, candyfloss and popcorn machines, chocolate fountains and tables and chairs. Parklands. Contact: 083 444 4123 or tracey.bruton@gmail.com Hi Ho Cherry O Educational Toyshop For educational and developmental games, puzzles, toys and art and

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crafts. Birthday box service – choose gifts for your invited guests to buy.

Meadowridge. Contact: 021 715 9033, 083 285 2635, info@hihocherryo.co.za or visit hihocherryo.co.za Indoor Outdoor Play Centre Sells soft-play systems, jungle gyms, toddler play systems and educational products.

Contact: 079 887 8322, info@iopc.co.za or visit iopc.co.za In Good Company Shop online for imported and local party décor and party favours. Nationwide delivery. For more info: visit ingoodcompany.co.za Its Mine Labels A wide range of personalised magnetic invitations, labels, party pack stickers, tattoos, and personalised ribbon and wrapping paper.

Post worldwide. Contact: 011 646 3640, admin@itsmine.co.za or visit itsmine.co.za Jackflash stories Get a personalised book, which tells your child’s birthday story with your own photos from R150.

Nationwide delivery. Contact Jaci: 082 827 8474, jaci@jackflashstories.co.za or visit jackflashstories.co.za Jitterbugs Magnet invitations, party pack stickers, décor and banners. Contact: 031 261 1030, orders@jitterbugs.co.za or visit jitterbugs.co.za Jolly Jump Castles Hires out inflatable items. Complete delivery, set up and collection throughout the Western Cape. From R550. For more info: visit jollyjumpcastles.com Jump 4 Joy Castles Jumping castles with a variety of ball ponds, climbing ropes and slides available for half- or full-day hire. Half-day R270–R380, fullday R370–R530. No delivery. Helderberg.

Contact Helene: 021 853 1187, 082 222 0859 or ghcloete@iafrica.com Jumping Candy Castles Hires out inflatable items such as jumping castles, water slides and ball ponds. Also hires out and operates popcorn and candyfloss machines. Includes delivery and setup.

Contact Mervyn or Carol: 021 715 9502, 082 842 4007, jumpingcandy@mweb. co.za or visit jumpingcandycastles.co.za Jumping Fun Hires out jumping castles at R300 for a two- to three-hour party.

For longer parties or full-day rental, ask for a quote. Party packs from R14 each.

They can design a party pack to fit your theme. Delivery and collection in southern suburbs only. Contact Tracey: 073 841 9008 or visit jumpingfun.co.za Just Labels Colourful, personalised gift stickers for children’s birthday presents. R12 for six stickers. Choose your own wording and pictures.

Postage nationwide. Contact: 031 266 1738, sales@justlabels.co.za or visit justlabels.co.za Kiddie Junction Online store for party packs and a selection of toys. Nationwide delivery. Contact Karen Endenburg: 073 163 8703, karen@kiddiejunction.co.za or visit kiddiejunction.co.za Kiddie Rides Automated children’s rides can be rented. R190 per machine, if collected. Delivery packages from R550.

Contact: 021 448 2541, kiddierides@ telkomsa.net or visit kiddierides.co.za

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Kids Labels International Offers a wide variety of gift labels posted countrywide.

For more info: visit kidslabels.co.za Kids at Play Jumping castle hire and other party services. Rentals from R300.

Contact Yolanda: 083 664 0942, info@ kidsatplay.co.za or visit kidsatplay.co.za Kids Party Thingz Supplier of Disney themed products such as invitations, cups, hats, paper plates, balloons, gumboots and more. Free delivery within City Bowl and Atlantic Seaboard. Contact: 082 889 4003, info@kidzpartythingz.co.za or visit kidzpartythingz.co.za Kidz-a-Peal Stocks age-appropriate, educational gifts and inexpensive party prizes, dress-up costumes, piñatas, face paints, and art and crafts activities for parties. Plumstead. Contact: 021 762 3543, 021 762 8580, kidz-a-peal@ telkomsa.net or visit kidzapeal.com Kidz Only Affordable sand art packs. R120 kits for 14 children, extra pictures only R6 each. Contact: admin@kidzonly.co.za Kidz Party Hire Rents out or sells party hats, invitations, plates, cups and serviettes in a variety of themes as well as party décor, photo boards, banners and backdrops. Book 20 children or more and pay only R25 per child. Rondebosch.

Contact Raygana: 021 697 1339, 076 908 6933 or kidzpartyhire@gmail.com King Cake Party City Stockists of décor, dress-up outfits, accessories and novelty or themed cakes. Contact Access Park: 021 671 0869, Gardens: 021 461 9448, Kenilworth Centre: 021 671 1176, Kuilsriver: 021 906 4419, N1 Value Centre: 021 595 3314, Parow: 021 930 2455, Tableview: 021 556 7969, Tokai: 021 715 3150 or visit kingcake.co.za Koala Tea Collections Online supplier of fun stationery and décor items, including birthday party invites, thank-you cards, party kits and party add-ons. Contact Lynette: 084 851 6981, admin@koalatea. co.za or visit koalatea.co.za Labels Inc For personalised stationery, including party invitations, gift labels and cards. From R60. Contact Lauren: 082 556 4232 or lauren@labelsinc.co.za or Karen: 082 897 7799, karen@labelsinc. co.za or visit labelsinc.co.za Lacey’s Promotions Offers a range of branded party accessories from party blowers and lucky packets to bubbles.

Nationwide delivery. Contact: 031 705 1055 or laceytheclown@laceys.co.za Little Occasions Children’s Designer Partyware For invitations, paper cups, plates, napkins, balloons, greeting cards, wrapping paper, gift bags and gift tags. View and order online.

Nationwide delivery. Contact: 011 071 7436, info@littleoccasions.co.za or visit littleoccasions.co.za Love from me Personalised party invitations, party pack stickers, table names, placemats and posters. Also birthday gifts, notepads, notepaper, note cards and ribbon. Contact Mel: 082 461 8604, mel@printique.co.za or visit lovefromme.co.za Love Letters Online store offering a range of personalised stationery and place magazine cape town

mats, personalised gifts and organisers.

Contact: lovelettersstationery@gmail.com or visit lovelettersstationery.co.za Macaroon Online stationery, which can be designed with your personal photographs to create invitations and more. Also gift stickers. Nationwide delivery. Contact: 011 782 9529, 082 889 3320, orders@macaroon. co.za or visit macaroon.co.za Merrypak and Print CC Personalised invitations, party boxes and bags, banners, balloons, streamers, cookie cutters, fancydress accessories and face paint. From R2 an item. Ndabeni. Contact: 021 531 2244, info@merrypak.co.za or visit merrypak.co.za Money Box Party Packs Novel and affordable party packs from R9. Money Box range includes blank, set design, DIY and colouring-in. New designs are Smurfs, Hello Kitty, Cars 2, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Ben 10. Contact: 082 422 7872 or visit jorsam.co.za Mozart Ice Cream Classics Sells ice cream in a variety of cones, cups and takeaway tubs. Hout Bay, Cavendish and Tygervalley. Contact: 086 110 5724 or visit mozart.co.za Mural Maniac Themed backdrops such as a magical castle entrance painted on fabric, canvass or board, and themed photo boards. Contact Theo: 021 559 6090, 072 359 7958, muralmaniac@ telkomsa.net or visit muralmaniac.co.za My Gas Supplies helium for balloons, large inflatable’s and blimps as well as easy-touse, DIY balloon kits. Honeydew. Contact: 0861 435 486 or visit mygas.co.za Mystic Memories Specialists in party banners, digital invitations, photo editing, digital scrapbooking pages, designed and printed photo books. Contact Leeann: 083 781 2556, leeann@mysticmemories. co.za or visit mysticmemories.co.za Nox Designs Personalised labels and party packs. From R35. Contact Nicky: 082 496 2930, nstark@mweb.co.za or visit noxdesigns.wordpress.com Oodles of Doodles Personalises plastic, wooden and fabric products and party buckets. Visit the online shop. Contact: info@oodlesofdoodles.co.za or visit oodlesofdoodles.co.za Parties4Africa Online shop selling plates, cups, serviettes, hats, blowouts, tablecloths and invites. Overnight delivery nationwide, dependent on goods ordered. Contact Cheryl or Penny: 035 772 6592, 083 635 5353, 084 406 6313, info@parties4africa. co.za or visit parties4africa.co.za Parties Galore Themed party setup, hire of tables, chairs, tableware, party buckets and picture cakes, among others. From R30 per head. Northern suburbs. Contact Genené: 082 838 2082, Nicole: 084 749 6009 or partiesgaloresa@gmail.com Party Animals Helium balloon suppliers and decorators. Contact Samantha: 021 557 0256, info@party-animals.co.za or visit party-animals.co.za Party Celebrations One-stop party supply shop. Claremont. Contact: 021 671 6434, info@partycelebrations.co.za or visit partycelebrations.co.za Party Characters Disney and animation décor, jumping castles, tables, chairs and magazine cape town

chair covers. Contact: 021 911 2973, 072 315 5053 or visit partycharacters.co.za Party Corner Supplies balloons, dress-up accessories and tableware. Accessories R2–R200. Contact: 021 433 1355, 083 745 3413, michelle@partycorner.co.za or visit partycorner.co.za Party Net Place your order online for party accessories. Nationwide delivery.

Contact: 087 808 8998, info@partynet. co.za or visit partynet.co.za Party Packs ’n Piñatas Party packs made to order from R25. Empty piñatas R170 or filled with sweets and trinkets R215. Excludes postage. Contact Kim: 087 805 9977, 082 683 5766, info@ partypacksandpinatas.co.za or visit partypacksandpinatas.co.za Party Shack Stockists of party accessories. Claremont and Mitchell’s Plain stores. Contact Mitchell’s Plain: 021 371 9173, Claremont: 021 671 3067 or boutique.de.cadeaux@gmail.com Party Shop SA Supplies accessories including helium balloons, themed packages, wigs, costumes, accessories, banners and more. Nationwide delivery. Contact: 011 793 4238, sales@partyshopsa.co.za or visit partyshopsa.co.za Party World Décor and accessories, including helium balloons, banners, boxes, streamers and cakes. Somerset West. Contact: 021 851 2786 Peggy’s Place & Plate Hire Hires cake stands, party platters and more.

Diep River. Contact: 021 705 0235, info@peggysplace.co.za or visit peggysplace.co.za Personally Yours Personalise everything from invitations, craft kits and serviettes to gift wrap, ribbon, scrapbooking material and greeting cards. Gardens. Contact: 083 675 3793, personallyyours@worldonline. co.za or visit personallyyours.co.za Pick a Bucket They sell party buckets fit for any birthday party and can cater for all birthday themes. Brackenfell. Contact: 083 782 1081 or pickabucket@gmail.com Piñata and Balloon Africa Custom-made piñatas. Also balloon arches, topiary, balloon drops and balloon sculptures in any shape. Can deliver surprise helium balloons nationwide. Contact Marianne: 082 457 2276, mgwyther@mweb.co.za or visit pinatas.co.za Pinney’s Party Creations Handcrafted, themed invitations, party plates and party boxes to buy plus posters to adorn walls or hang from the ceiling for hire. From R50. Contact Tanya: 079 185 5923 or tanya.schickerling@gmail.com Plastics for Africa Educational toys and puzzles, party pack gifts, art and crafts, games and a range of party supplies. Contact Montague Gardens: 021 551 5790, Somerset West: 021 852 4007, Tokai: 021 702 1700 or visit plasticsforafrica.com Poms & Tutus Décor pompoms, lanterns, tutus, party dresses, serviettes and accessories. Posted nationwide.

Contact: 011 803 8722, 076 259 9434, info@pomsandtutus.com or visit pomsandtutus.com May 2012

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Poppynono Custom-made party packs and invitations as well as décor for hire.

Contact Monique: 072 277 6872 or info@ poppynono.co.za Puzzle Worx Create a personalised puzzle with a photo of your child and use it as an invitation. From R20. Contact: 083 275 6567 or jodywebb@mtnloaded.co.za Rainbow Parties The stores stocks themed décor, cakes, eats, party packs and accessories. Can arrange entertainment. Northern suburbs. Contact Lizelle: 021 982 2362, 084 515 1078 or lizelle@rainbowparties.co.za RDA Events Management Supplies draping, décor and props. Killarney Gardens. Contact: 021 556 0361, 082 571 6101 or rdasa@iafrica.com or visit rdaevents.co.za Rumble Grumble Parties Supplies jumping castles, water slides, themed party accessories, tables and chairs, décor, party buckets, and popcorn and candy floss machines. Check availability online. Contact: 072 835 8812, info@rumblegrumble.co.za or visit rumblegrumble.co.za Sensation Lab Hires out unique structures, furniture and dance floors, marquees, candle-lit walkways and fairy and disco lights. Nationwide delivery. Contact: 011 023 5940/45, info@sensationlab.co.za or visit sensationlab.co.za Serina’s Jumping Castles Slides, castles and a ball pond available. Delivery in Durbanville and surrounds. R300–R400 in summer for half-day; same price in winter for full-day. Contact: 021 976 6326 Sing Your Name Personalised CD that has the birthday child’s name and their guests’ names in the songs. R129. Contact Debbie: 083 456 8385, info@sing-yourname.co.za or visit sing-your-name.co.za

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Sky Toys Sells a variety of balloons, from plain and printed to novelty, foil and helium. Order online. Deliveries nationwide. Contact: 011 837 3924, 083 377 3786, info@skytoys.co.za or visit skytoys.co.za Star Dot Toys A shop with dress-up clothes, helium balloons, novelties and gifts. Contact Hout Bay: 021 790 0384, Tokai: 021 702 4081 or Anne: 082 337 6049 Stay Stuck Personalised gift labels in different colours and styles. Contact: 082 385 4331, info@staystuck.co.za or visit staystuck.co.za Stick With Us! Personalised invites, party box and gift stickers, thank-you cards, banners and posters, cakes and cupcakes. Contact Mandy: 082 377 0513 or mandy@stickwithus.co.za Stuck 2 U Labels Offers stickers with a motif and your name, ribbon with your choice of printing and shaped gift stickers. See website for a distributor in your area. Contact: 083 440 3230, info@ stuck2u.co.za or visit stuck2u.co.za The Crazy Store A discount store for all you might need for your child’s party. Contact: 021 505 5500 or visit crazystore.co.za The Fairy Shop Party packs, Flower Fairy party kits, wands, wings, tiaras, fairy dust, wizard cloaks, Tinkerbell dresses, mermaid outfits, princess dresses, and cakes, fairy cakes and cupcakes. Claremont. Contact: 021 671 0935 or visit fairyshop.co.za The Scrapbook Sells everything you need for a scrapbook for your child’s birthday memories. Contact Claremont: 021 674 6425, Bellville: 021 914 2621, scrapbookct@webafrica.org.za or visit thescrapbook.co.za The Toy Factory Shop Online shopping for party buckets, cheap toys for party

packs, and birthday presents at reasonable prices. Party buckets (R18) including Nik Naks, Fizz Pop, Smarties, bubbles and a toy. Contact: info@thetoyfactoryshop.co.za or visit thetoyfactoryshop.co.za Tinkle-pea Offers gifts and party favours.

Nationwide delivery. Contact Jenny: 082 804 5678, jenny@tinklepea.co.za or visit tinklepea.co.za Toadeez Children’s Fantasy Furniture Handcrafted toadstool furniture available for hire. Contact Kim: 082 622 6800, info@toadeez.co.za or visit toadeez.co.za Toddlers Warehouse Party pack toys sold at wholesale prices. Shipping nationwide.

Contact Tania: 011 979 1676, 072 398 8053, tania@toddlerswarehouse.co.za or visit toddlerswarehouse.co.za Visual Creations Themed décor, pyrotechnics, fireworks displays, sound and lighting, and function coordination.

Paarden Eiland. Contact: 021 511 9676, 082 553 0438 or viscreatect@mweb.co.za Wild Kids Entertainment Hiring and delivery of jumping castles, tables and chairs, photo boards, a bubble machine, face painter, cakes, party packs, Wild Kids train, paintball target shooting range and gazebos. Contact Naomi: 021 979 1729, 072 324 2607 or wildkids@telkomsa.net

Cape Camel Rides A short camel ride at Imhoff Farm will make for an adventure for the birthday child and friends. Kommetjie. Contact: 021 789 1711 Drakenstein Lion Park Get up close to rescued lions at this sanctuary, just outside Paarl. R25 per child; R45 per adult. The outside area with jungle gym is ideal for a party. Contact: 021 863 3290, info@ lionrescue.org.za or visit lionrescue.org.za

Furry Feet Parties Mobile petting parties with chickens, hamsters, goats, rabbits, guinea pigs and rats. Dogs and ponies on request. Contact Ronel: 084 616 5033, ronel@furryfeetparties.co.za or visit furryfeetparties.co.za Gumboot Parties They offer a farm party or you can opt for a Survivor party for the older children. R80– R95 per child, which includes eats, drinks and activities. Gan Eden Farm, Durbanville. Contact Chané: 072 182 9333, info@gumbootparties.co.za or visit gumbootparties.co.za Le Bonheur Croc Farm Large indoor venue for various themes. Entertainment includes catch-and-release bass fishing, a sandpit, a doll’s house, swings, climbing gym and the croc ponds. Children can touch a baby croc and, during summer, witness a feeding. Picnic, braai or negotiate a fee for self-catering. Contact: 021 863 1142 or info@lebonheurcrocfarm.co.za Mountain View Horse Trails Brings ponies or other animals to your home.

Experienced animal handlers lead the ponies around. Children may ride the ponies and touch all the animals.

Contact Glodien: 083 727 0256 or mountainviewhorsetrails@ananzi.co.za Plaaswerf Kids’ Parties Children aged 1–7 can feed sheep and hold rabbits, and there is an indoor jumping castle, ball pit and playroom, pedal tractors, sandpit and slip ‘n slide in summer. Party packs and a variety of themes available.

Durbanville. Contact: 082 564 0100, theresa.engelbrecht@gmail.com or visit plaaswerf.co.za Pony parties At a venue of your choice. Cost includes transport and the handler. Contact: 074 140 0508, info@ horsetrailsafaris.co.za or visit ctcco.co.za

magazine cape town

Reflectionz pony parties For equine assisted-learning activities, treasure hunts, equine education and more. No horse riding involved. Contact Fiona: 083 278 7382 or Sarah: 072 126 1096, info@ reflectionz.co.za or visit reflectionz.co.za The Giraffe House Wildlife Centre A venue, wildlife-themed table settings, party packs/gift and entrance to an animal encounter. Bring your own eats. Kiosk available. R65 per child; R35 per adult.

Contact: 021 884 4506, giraffehouse@ gmail.com or visit giraffehouse.co.za Water Gardens Venue with catering, birthday cakes, cupcakes, treasure hunts and assorted crafts. From R600 for 10 children, including popcorn, candyfloss, cookies, balloons and seating with covers.

Venue hire without catering, Monday to Friday. Ottery. Contact: 021 703 9182, wgf@iafrica.com or visit watergardens.co.za

Artee Parteez Lego, craft, recording studio, princess parties and puppet shows. From R750 per party. Contact Kirsty: 084 207 0180, kirsty@arteeparteez.co.za or visit arteeparteez.co.za Artjamming painting parties Includes party packs, a canvas and non-toxic paints. Discount for parties of 10 or more.

From R95. Contact Cape Quarter: 021 421 6129 or Willowbridge: 021 914 9224 A Scrap Above Scrapbooking parties For children from age 7. Various options available, from R75 per child. Contact Anita: 079 529 9015, info@ascrapabove. co.za or visit ascrapabove.co.za Bambury They sell party pack gifts: Orb Factory Sticky Mosaic Kits, which are easyto-use and mess-free as you do not need

magazine cape town

to use glue and scissors. Contact: 083 680 5976 or nikiw@bambury.co.za Ceramics painting party Ceramic painting at Redhill Pottery. There are also grounds and a jungle gym to play on.

South Peninsula. Contact: 021 780 9297 or bruce@redhillpotterycape.co.za Creative clay parties Children handcraft items with clay and clay paints. They are then fired and glazed in a kiln and returned to hand out to the party guests.

R900 for a group of 10 children, thereafter R60 per child. Contact Heidi: 021 556 5916, 082 630 6303 or visit facebook. com/creativeangelsclay Doodle Creative Space little artist parties Children create artwork or a craft to take home. Choose from painting, mosaic, printing an item or painting pottery.

Contact: doodlecreativespace@gmail.com Eazy Stitch Kidz Hand- and craft-work parties. Learn to sew an outfit for your favourite doll or teddy, make pompom animals, learn to knit or dye a T-shirt.

More than 100 projects to choose from.

R50–R80 per child. Contact: admin@ eazystitch.co.za or visit eazystitch.co.za Funky Sandart parties They supervise the party guests closely. Different packages available. Venue of your choice.

Contact: 082 560 2349 or funkysandart@ telkomsa.net Kathleen B Mosaics Children’s mosaic parties and they take the item home.

Noordhoek or a location of your choice.

Contact: 082 446 2956 Mosaic Works Themed mosaic party kits. R35–R120. Contact: 021 552 4870, admin@mosaicworks.co.za or visit mosaicworks.co.za Perler Beads parties Involves placing plastic beads onto pegboards in a pattern and once completed, the creation is ironed.

Used for scrapbooking, card making, jewellery, sun catchers and more. For more info: visit justkiddingaround.co.za QT Pie Crafts Craft parties in mosaics, candle dipping, soap making, fabric painting, ceramic painting, gel candles, tie dyeing and more. Venue of your choice.

From R65 per child. Contact Cindy: 021 556 2010 (a/h) or 084 580 7497 Sand-art parties Supplies a sand-art table with 14 colours, 10 glitters and assistance for a two-hour party. Contact Renee: 021 910 0935 or 082 731 4772 Sand-art Parties The party lasts up to 2 hours. Contact: 021 557 9911, 082 877 7159 or visit sandartcapetown.co.za Sue Nepgen Art Studio Art and crafts parties, which have an environmental slant. Other themes can be worked into the activities. She can provide a variety of entertainers. Venue of your choice. Contact: 021 794 6609 or snepgen@xsinet.co.za Toby Tower A range of stickers, DIY activities and other products such as sticker albums, 3D pop art, colouring-in puzzles, gel, sand and scratch art. Contact: 021 787 9600, 0800 220 488, tobytower@ pyrotec.co.za or visit tobytower.co.za Toitoy design parties Each child receives a blank vinyl toy of his/her choice to design. This is led by an artist, who will also design a toy especially for the birthday child. Kloof St. Contact Earl: 082 320 2236, info@toitoy.co.za or visit toitoy.co.za Wendy’s fabric painting and craft parties Offered to children and adults. From R50.

Contact Wendy: 021 531 8076, 082 391 4954 or wendyadriaan@telkomsa.net

All-in-one Cakes Printed cakes R220, 3D cakes R200–R550, 2D cakes

R200–R350, cupcakes R3,50–R12,50 and figurine biscuits. Party packs R6,50– R14,50. Contact Jenny: 021 919 3058, 083 262 2621 or jennykl@mweb.co.za Blossom Cupcakes For cakes, cookie pops, cupcakes, cupcakes in a jar and whoopie pies. Contact: 072 992 9156, 082 325 6529 or blossomcupcakes@gmail.com Cake-A-Lishis Cakes and cupcakes made to order. From R370 for cakes and from R7 for cupcakes. Contact Keira: 082 334 4495, keiravz@gmail.com or visit cake-alishis.blogspot.com Cake Deco Mania Supplies edible cake image printing products such as edible icing sheets, edible inks and licensed pre-printed images. Contact: 083 657 9225, sarel@ inkredible.co.za or visit inkredible.co.za Cake du Jour Cakes with handmade figurines and details. From R250. Contact Monique: 084 608 4729, monique@ cakedujour.co.za or visit cakedujour.co.za Cakeilicious 2D and 3D novelty cakes, photo cakes, cupcakes and edible figurines. All made to suit your party theme. From R300. Tableview. Contact: 082 214 8258, annej@worldonline.co.za or visit cakeilicious.biz Cakes for Kidz Home-made cakes in a variety of themes and designs for your party. Contact Isobel: 021 434 1796, 082 921 2803 or fleishmn@telkomsa.net Charly’s Bakery Order your birthday cake in any theme. Contact: 021 461 5181 or visit charlysbakery.co.za Club Meg Supplies cakes and cupcakes.

Based in Tableview. Contact: 082 777 7509 or clubmeg1@gmail.com Creative Cakes For 3D, handcrafted, cakes or photo cakes, and party confectionery to suit your theme. Contact: 021 557 0084, 083 568 8758, carol@creativecakes.co.za or visit creativecakes.co.za

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Cupcakes etc Provides designer cupcakes, children’s party cupcakes and birthday cakes. Loop St. Contact: 082 855 8966, michelle@cupcakesetc.net or visit cupcakesetc.net Daniela’s Deliciously Decadent Handcrafted confectionery and cakes, Parisian macaroons, chocolate brownies and fudge. They also provide a catering and private chef service, which includes the chef, décor and staff. Green Point.

Contact: 0860 266 266, 082 868 8133 or visit danielas.co.za Decadent Cakes Birthday cakes and cupcakes, specialising in modelled figures and objects on cakes, and Belgian chocolate mousse cakes. Cupcakes from R7 and cakes from R265. Edgemead.

Contact Janine: 082 431 5870 or decadentcakes@webafrica.org.za Delite Foods Specialises in delicious, sugar-free, low-fat foods such as jellies, biscuits and chocolate drinks that are perfect for all children, including diabetics.

Based in Tokai or order online. Contact: 021 702 0721/2, info@delitefoods.co.za or visit delitefoods.co.za Denise’s Delights Cakes, cupcakes and catering platters made to order. Plain cakes from R48, novelty cakes R450. Sea Point. Contact: 021 434 3469 or dennys@ mweb.co.za Divine Tastes Birthday cakes, cupcakes and platters that you can design yourself.

Cakes from R350, cupcakes from R5.

Contact Tertia: 021 975 8910, 083 234 6343 or tertia@infintec.co.za Faerietopia Cupcakes and cakes; carrot, chocolate, jam and coconut squares; children’s party packs; platters; cooked meals. Southern suburbs. Contact: 074 028 2399 or stelladawn40@gmail.com Fantabulous Cakes For cakes, cupcakes, biscuit bouquets, platters, themed confectionary and party packs. Cakes from R400. Contact Lené: 021 982 4174, 083 287 4874, info@fantabulouscakes. co.za or visit fantabulouscakes.co.za Feather’s Cakes & Gifts Birthday cakes and gifts. R250–R400. Tableview. Contact Fiona: 021 556 8989 or vincec@lms.co.za Florentines Birthday cakes from R250.

Contact: 021 761 0581, florentines@ mweb.co.za or visit florentines.co.za Frostings Cupcake Boutique Specialises in work-of-art cakes and cupcakes for all occasions. Toppings custom made and cakes designed to complement any theme or colour scheme. Cupcakes R11,50–R35.

Contact: 021 975 0878, info@frostings. co.za or visit frostings.co.za Healthy Cakes 4 You Novelty birthday cakes in a variety of themes. Cakes can be made sugar-free and/or diabetic-friendly or vegan. Contact: 021 674 0487, 082 968 2717, healthycakes4you@gmail.com or visit healthycakes4you.hostei.com Hmmm… Delicious treats such as cakes, biscuits and gingerbread men. Gardens.

Contact: 021 462 1950 Home-Leigh Kitchen Supplies cakes, cupcakes and party food. Cakes R200– R350 and cupcakes R6–R12 each.

Contact Leigh: 021 671 3945, 083 406

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8883, leehob@hotmail.com or visit homeleighkitchen.co.za Hundreds & Thousands Cakes Reasonably priced birthday cakes and photo cakes and a large range of party accessories. They also sell helium balloons, fairy dresses, SpiderMan suits, masks and accessories.

Based in Pinelands. Contact: 021 531 9797, hundredsandthousands@ vodamail.co.za or visit hundredsandthousandshomebake.co.za Jorja’s Cakes A range of cakes and cupcakes, edible picture cakes and 3D cakes. Cupcakes from R7 and cakes from R230. Tableview. Deliveries in the West Coast area. Contact: 082 562 6186, info@ jorjascakes.co.za or visit jorjascakes.co.za Juicy Lucy Platters with sandwiches, mini cheese grillers, dips, mini wraps and veggie sticks. For more info: visit juicylucy.co.za Just Muffins For all flavours of muffins, and lamingtons, scones, pizza bases, brownies, doughnuts, croissants and biscuits. Montague Gardens. Contact: 021 552 7631 or visit justmuffins.co.za Kauai Wholesome food available in large enough quantities for a party of any size.

For more info: visit kauai.co.za Mini’s Party Cakes Specialises in shaped and picture cakes and cupcakes. Cakes from R220, cupcakes from R5. Contact Mini: 021 557 7865, 082 773 8836 or minis.party.cakes@gmail.com Mukhtar Hiring Services Hires out party furniture, marquees and tents, and cutlery and crockery. Contact: 021 638 1187, sales@mukhtar.co.za or visit mukhtar.co.za Petits Fours Deli and Décor Provides high teas for girls of all ages, specialised cakes and birthday party platters.

Bloubergstrand. Contact: 021 554 4462, petitsfours@seascapecollection.co.za or visit petitsfours.co.za Picnix and Peppadill Catering Offers catering, from traditional to outdoorsy.

Options include platters, hampers, picnics, individual meal packs, themed and spit braai options. From R65. Constantia Valley.

Contact Antoinette: 073 195 4298 or Linda: 083 265 7737 or info@peppadil.co.za Pudding & Pie Cakes, cupcakes, platters and party treats made to order. Contact Taryn: 083 352 0104 or cateredaffair@ hotmail.com Sugarlicious Give the party a Willy Wonka’s Candy Factory feel with a candy buffet, which makes a great party favour.

Their designers colour coordinate the table decorations to fit the colours you’ve selected for your child’s party. Setup from R1 250. Contact: 071 323 0201, sugarlicious.capetown@gmail.com or visit sugarlicious.co.za The Baking Tin A range of baking equipment such as children’s themed novelty cake tins, stands and ingredients.

Novelty cake tins R50 deposit; R30 per day rental. Claremont. Contact: 021 671 6434 or 083 452 6533 The Cake Box Designer cakes set up, styled and delivered to you on the day.

Contact Lilia: 082 338 5496, lilia@mweb. co.za or visit thecakebox.co.za magazine cape town

The Chocolate Moose Unique cakes from R400, icing figures R126, photo cakes R470. Delivers. Stores in Steenberg Village and Red Herring Centre. Contact: 021 789 2891, cakes@chocolatemoose.co.za or visit chocolatemoose.co.za The Pancake People They supply pancakes for parties. No order is too big.

Southern suburbs. Contact Gretha: 083 507 7112 or pannekoek.venter@gmail.com The Wacky Cake Heaven For cakes, personalised edible-image cakes, cupcakes and iced biscuits.

Bloubergstrand and Parklands. Contact: 079 527 4778 or kirstenaa@gmail.com Unique Novelty Cakes Hand-moulded novelty cakes. Contact Sharon: 021 696 8766, 082 762 2787, uniquecakes@ telkomsa.net or visit unique-cakes.co.za Village Bakes and Crafts Tailor-made themed birthday cakes, cupcakes, homemade sausage rolls and mini chicken pies.

Constantia Village. Contact: 021 794 5850 Zoe Cakes for Fun Unique character cakes customised to suit your needs. Outlets nationwide. Contact Ingrid: 011 706 7332, 073 046 8460, info@zoecakesforfun.co.za or visit zoecakesforfun.co.za

Beaux-Arts Kidz Kraftz Pottery sessions to get creative. Contact: 021 913 7444, info@bacreate.com or visit bacreate.com Chocolate workshop party They host the party or run it at your venue. Children make truffles and decorations for a prebaked cake. Maximum 8 children, 10 years and older. Standard fee R900.

Contact Sheilagh: 021 671 2067, 084 303 6633 or sheilagh@mweb.co.za Experilab Children do at least six experiments, which they take home, such as making slime, instant snow, bouncing balls, bottle-jet and Martian mud. From R85 per child. Minimum 10 children per party.

Party packs optional. Bellville. Contact: 021 914 7665 or experilab@telkomsa.net Iziko Planetarium The school entrance or lobby area can be booked for parties for up to 40 children. They can go on an educational adventure and watch children’s shows. For more info: visit iziko.org.za Two Oceans Aquarium The venue provides a child-friendly guided tour of the aquarium; a fully catered lunch with party box, décor and activities including getting up close with a penguin. R124–R295.

Contact: 021 418 3823, party@aquarium. co.za or visit aquarium.co.za

Good Food Fun Food Each child prepares their own cake or cupcake or pizza. Sweets, popcorn and juice supplied. R90 per child. Contact: 084 625 0225 or goodfoodfunfood@gmail.com Little Cooks Club cooking parties For 2–7 year olds R160 per child and 8–14 year olds R200 per child. Contact Christine: 083 556 3434, christine@littlecookslclub. co.za or Lisa (northern suburbs): 073 227 3404, lisab@littlecooksclub.co.za or visit littlecooksclub.co.za Rococoa chocolate parties Children learn how to make chocolate. Woodstock.

Contact: 021 461 2301, info@rococoa. co.za or visit rococoa.co.za The Pizza Party People Children make their own pizza while the professional team makes pizza for you. From R75 per child, R85 per adult. Contact Darin: 021 556 4312, 083 255 6355 or visit thepizzapartypeople.co.za Tots n Pots cooking parties Contact Hannah (Constantia): 082 569 8666 or constantia@totsnpots.com; Susan (Southern Peninsula): 084 999 8068 or susan@totsnpots.com; Yolande (Tableview): 079 513 4491, yolande@ totsnpots.com or visit totsnpots.com What’s Cooking Children cook a variety of sweets, cookies and something savoury. Contact: 021 554 1603 or whatscooking@global.co.za

Aalwyn’s Funtertainment Supplies a ventriloquist, magician and mime or balloon artist. Contact: 083 354 8726 or aalwynd@vodamail.co.za Abracadabra This one-hour show has magic tricks. Suitable for 5–10 year olds.

From R850. Contact: 021 554 1404 Action Entertainment & Events Supplies entertainment and is home of Puddles the clown. Contact: 021 785 6917, 082 368 9632, info@actionentertainment.co.za or visit actionentertainment.co.za AfrodizzyActs Supplies magicians, stilt walkers, clowns, human tables, human statues, musicians, jugglers, acrobats, dancers and more. Contact Natalie: 082 087 5748 or afrodizzyacts@hotmail.com Arwen Princess Pamper Parties For girls aged 4–13 years. Contact: 082 928 4258 Babies Read Books and Toddlers Too Old-style party fun with music, movement and puppets. For toddlers 2–5 years.

Contact Sharon: 021 461 2843, 082 222 4082 or visit babiesreadbooks.co.za Balloon Angels Balloon art and face painting for 90 minutes. Party packages from R600. Contact Lynne: 021 858 1335 or 076 604 7524 Blue Flame Events and Branding Specialists Children’s entertainment and costumes for hire. Contact: 072 599 2288, info@bflame.co.za or visit bflame.co.za Café Roux A venue with a playground, face painting and pony rides. Noordhoek Farm Village. Contact: 021 789 2538, info@ caferoux.co.za or visit caferoux.co.za Cape Sidecar Adventures Fun rides on vintage sidecars. From R300 per hour per sidecar, minimum two hours.

Rate includes sidecar with chauffeur (excludes delivery outside greater Cape Town). Contact: 021 434 9855 or visit sidecars.co.za

Atom Ant Science Fun Parties They go to your venue and entertain with science experiments and demonstrations.

For 5–12 year olds. R80 includes a science activity that guests make and keep. Contact Ann: 082 570 5796, ann@atomant.co.za or visit sciencefunparties.co.za magazine cape town

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Children’s art workshops Professional face and body painting. Contact Ursula: 083 544 4076 or urobby@telkomsa.net Chilli Moon Productions Face painters, fashion shows as well as something for the boys. R450 per hour. Contact Michelle: 021 424 7054 or 082 504 4130 Chris Welsch Show A one-hour show covering magic, juggling, ventriloquism and balloon modelling. Fun fair and jumping castle available. Contact: 021 931 2354, 082 977 2886, mrchwelsch@ wbs.co.za or visit chriswelsch.co.za Clamber Club Obstacle course of ladders, slides, balance beams and a parachute, plus other games. Trained entertainers run the party for 90 minutes. R900– R1 300. Nationwide. Contact: 011 325 2031, headoffice@clamberclub.com or visit clamberclub.com College of Magic Hire a magician, juggler, mime artist, face painter, ventriloquist, clown or stilt walker. They travel to your venue. Contact: 021 683 0989, events@ magic.org.za or visit collegeofmagic.com Crazy Colin Themed magic shows.

Contact: 078 625 9663 or visit colinunderwood.com Dance Accent Dance party entertainment from R700. Contact Nici: 082 563 1733, danceaccent@iburst.co.za or visit danceaccent.co.za Debby Doo Songs, magic show, balloon modelling, party games, movement, action songs, bubbles. Entertainment for children from age 1–9 years old. Girls dancing parties. Contact Debby: 084 409 1683, debbyjam@gmail.com or visit debbydoo.co.za Enchanted Parties Themed party entertainment and face painting, games, magic, puppet shows and crafts. Party packs, goodie boxes and cakes provided.

For 2 year olds to teens. From R550 for up to 20 children. Contact Ingrid or Chrissie: 021 683 0295, 083 602 5563 or penny@ enchantedparties.co.za Fairytale Fantacies Entertainment with crafts, games and more. Choose from Snow White, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Barbie, pirates and more. Contact Lisa: 083 490 6985, lisa@fairytalefantacy.co.za or visit fairytalefantacy.co.za

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Foo Ling Yu Party magician suitable for ages five and older. Contact: 021 781 0071 or 082 959 1015 Gilly Southwood Storyteller Fun and interactive storytelling adapted to suit 4–12 year olds. 45 minutes. Contact Gilly: 082 872 4512, gilly@cybersmart.co.za or visit gillysouthwood.co.za Glendini Age-appropriate magic shows of wand routines, rabbits playing, Tinkerbell the fairy or Papa Smurf jumping from ear to ear. R400 for a 30-minute show, R500 for a 45-minute show. Contact: 073 405 1199, escapemagic@gmail.com or visit escapemagic.co.za Golden Bridge Tales Classic puppet shows, puppet-making workshops and party games. Contact: 021 439 8113 Gorgeous Face painting for 2–8 year olds, mini make-up artistry and spa days for 8–13 year olds, and make up, photo shoot parties and spa days for 12–16 year olds. Venue of your choice. Contact Gina: 084 651 5908 or ginamaskell@gmail.com Kids Pamper Parties Two-hour party covers mini manicure, pedicure and fantasy make-up. Ideal for 5–10 year olds. R1 000 for five children, R150 per child thereafter. Venue of your choice. Contact Kirsty: 082 950 8620 or kirstycox1@gmail.com Madeleine the Magic Clown Magic and clown shows. Contact: 083 925 8714 MADT Magic Children’s comedy, audience participation, balloon modelling and an appearance by Roxy the Rabbit.

From R650. Contact: 082 576 5745, adri@ madtmagic.co.za or visit madtmagic.co.za Magical Parties Hire entertainers for face painting, balloon shaping, party games, art and crafts, fairies, clowns, magic shows, puppet shows, mimes, stilt walkers, jugglers and party characters. Contact: 073 263 1920, kids@magicalparties.co.za or visit magicalparties.co.za Magician Balloon modelling, juggling and a magic show. For children 4–7 years. For a 45-minute show R750. Balloons R10 each.

Face painting R150 per hour, only with magic show. Contact Joy: 082 258 3764 Nouveau Faces Professional face and body painting by specialists. R650 for

15 children; R800 for 35 children. Based in Noordhoek. Contact: 072 139 8363, brigitta@nouveaufaces.co.za or visit nouveaufaces.co.za Party Pro For fun-fair equipment such as children’s rides, party equipment, circus acts and entertainers. From R300.

Damarakloof Farm, Muldersvlei. Contact: 083 817 9339, 079 994 4100, info@ partypro.co.za or visit partypro.co.za Photoboothinc Package includes unlimited photos printed out instantly, an experienced operator, duplicate prints, use of the fun props and a DVD, for the host, of all the photos from the event. Contact Rob: 083 377 9449, rob@photoboothinc.co.za or visit photoboothinc.co.za Puppet Shows For All Puppet show using professional stage, lighting and music at a venue of your choice. Shows are 30–45 minutes, varied for different age groups for children from two years. Contact: 021 448 0794, 082 562 4588, dpjasmin@telkomsa. net or visit puppetshowsforall.co.za Puppet World Interactive puppet shows with music, lighting and puppet characters.

Themes include animal stories, fairy tales and Dora the Explorer. Contact Heather: 082 808 0057, heather@puppetworld.co.za or visit puppetworld.co.za The Drama Box The birthday boy or girl chooses a theme from a story or movie and a party facilitator structures an interactive, 20–30 minute play based on this with the children. Contact: 084 523 2300 or mccbridget@gmail.com The Incredible Dog Show From R1 200.

Contact Lloyd: 084 500 0415, lloyd@ dogzcool.com or visit dogzcool.com The Rainbow Puppet Theatre Celebrate with a puppet show. They have a permanent and mobile theatres.

Constantia/mobile to Cape Town and surrounds. Contact: 021 783 2063 or therainbow.puppettheatre@gmail.com The Teeny Weeny Smile Factory For clowning, puppet shows, balloon modelling, face painting, stilt-walking and more with Squeaks The Clown. Contact: 083 502 9206 or squeaks.teenyweeny@gmail.com Tony Lee the Magician Specialises in children’s shows. Contact: 082 899 0109

Water Walkers Inflatable fun balls for hire. Use your own pool. Water Walkers, support equipment and operating staff are supplied. Inflatable pool supplied if necessary. From R850. Contact: 021 424 1801, Sharon: 083 943 0991, Carole-Ann: 081 443 7999 or sharonhawes@gmail.com

Amazing Lulubelle Tutus Fairy princess tutus ready to be custom-made for parties, photo shoots and dress-up fun.

Deliveries nationwide. Contact: 071 505 1003 or shop@lulubelle.co.za BKE Costumes Specialises in superheroes and Star Wars costumes.

Also costumes for parents wanting to dress for their children’s themed party.

Contact Bernhard: 073 198 6623, bkernst@gmail.com or costumerental. bkernst.net Costume Wonderland Adult and children’s fancy dress costumes available for hire as well as accessories such as helium balloons, piñatas and selected party supplies. R50–R350 rental, R50–R500 refundable deposit. Durbanville. Contact: 021 976 5749, costumes@juliaperry.co.za or visit juliaperry.co.za/costumes CrystalFusion FairyWear Stocks handmade, colourful fairy gowns with detailed fairy wings, headbands, tiaras and fairy wands. Costs vary. Nationwide delivery. Contact Ewan: 082 578 6767, ewan@crystalfusion.co.za or visit crystalfusion.co.za Kidsfancydress.co.za Costumes imported from the US and Europe. Contact: 021 557 6891, info@kidsfancydress.co.za or visit kidsfancydress.co.za Kidz Costumes Fancy dress hire for children 2–11 years. Contact: 021 559 6666 or kidzcostumes@gmail.com Mardi Gras Fancy dress and costume hire. From R60–R450. Deposit required.

There’s also a wide range of contacts and suppliers to help with party planning. Bree St. Contact: 021 424 9716, cara@mardi. co.za or visit mardi.co.za Stage Creations Fancy-dress costumes, hats, wigs, masks, professional makeup, glitter, masks, hats and eyelashes.

magazine cape town

Northgate Estate. Contact: 021 510 1820, 083 789 2970, stagecreations@mweb. co.za or visit stagecreations.co.za Theatreland Stocks a variety of fancy-dress costumes and accessories for hire. Contact Plumstead: 021 797 3002, Bellville: 021 949 5782, Pinelands: 021 531 5919, Sea Point: 021 434 3862, info@fancydress.co.za or visit fancydress.co.za

AA Castle Hire Hiring of jumping castles. R250– R880. Contact Linda: 021 534 8471, 084 434 8471, harry.dv@gmail.com or visit aacastlehire.synthasite.com AWI Functions: The Crusader Memorial Sports Club Versatile venue with an indoor and outdoor area. Contact Claudia: 021 439 7724 or claudia@ arrowwoodint.co.za Bizzy Bodies Play and Party Venue A selection of standard or decorated themed parties with a 700m² space to run, play, jump and ride. From R80 for two hours. Westlake. Contact: 021 702 0505, 021 702 1212, info@bizzybodies.co.za or visit bizzybodies.co.za Blue Water Café A party venue at Imhoff Farm in Kommetjie with expansive lawns, play areas, jungle gyms, swings, the Higgeldy Piggeldy Farmyard, snake park and camel rides. Party catering and venue R70 per person. Contact Lesley: 021 783 2007, info@bluewatercafe.co.za or visit bluewatercafe.co.za Buddy Bear Teddy bear-building birthday party in the comfort of your own home.

R150−R250 per child (bear, stuffing, heart, birth certificate and outfit). Nationwide.

Contact: 031 764 2383, leanne@buddybear. co.za or visit buddybear.co.za Bugz Playpark The indoor or outdoor party includes party packs, lunch, access to play area, ice cream and a cookie on a stick. R85 per child. Extra catering and themed décor can be arranged. Contact: 021 988 8836, party@bugz.co.za or visit bugzplaypark.co.za Clever Cats Party Venue Farm-style parties with catering or self-catering.

magazine cape town

Minimum of 10 children. R75 per child for three hour’s play includes party pack, meals and décor for your theme.

Langeberg Rd. Contact: 021 987 3882, Tana: 076 311 3090, admin@clevercats. co.za or visit clevercats.co.za Col’Cacchio Pizzeria Most stores offer a make-your-own pizza party to children.

Some stores also offer indoor and outdoor children’s play areas. Children’s meals start at R28. For more info: visit colcacchio.co.za Die Partytjie Plaas A venue that has farm animals, jungle gym, trampolines, lapa, fireplace and braai facilities.

Somerset West, Strand and Gordon’s Bay. Contact: 082 624 9004 or cariena@ highveldcapethatchers.co.za Fun in the Forest Entertainment includes jumping castles, slip ‘n slide, jungle gyms, treasure hunts, horse riding, fishing at the dam, balloon target and egg war. Indoor activities cover fabric painting, sand art, mosaic art, kite making and cupcake decoration. Winery Rd Forest, Somerset West. Contact: lize@wineryroadforest. co.za or visit wineryroadforest.co.za Gracelandvenues You have access to slippery slide rides, a play park, full use of the animal touch farm and the jungle gym. Pony rides optional.

Full party pack included. Parties in winter run at their indoor venue. Paarl.

Contact: 021 863 4109, 072 264 4009, conny@gracelandvenues.co.za or visit gracelandvenues.co.za Karmanel Party Farm Indoor and outdoor facilities with jumping castles, pony rides, play park and a touch animal farm in Joostenbergvlakte. From R75 per child.

Contact: 087 802 6280, karmanelfarm@ telkomsa.net or visit karmanel.co.za Kidz Discovery Spacious air-conditioned indoor space and an outdoor play area with jungle gym, large sandpit, spring rocker and mini wishing well. Also a ball pond and slide, toddler roller-coaster, octopus roundabout, playhouse, seathemed climbing wall, dress-up area, themed table and chairs and children’s music. Contact Kathy: 083 654 2494, info@kidzdiscovery.co.za or visit kidzdiscovery.co.za

La Cabane A restaurant that has an events coordinator to plan your party. Call to enquire about the specially designed party packages. Venue hire from R350.

Hout Bay. Contact: 021 790 8686, events@ lacabane.co.za or visit lacabane.co.za Little Picasso’s Café Indoor and outdoor party venue, play centre and coffee shop. Parklands. Contact: 021 557 7950, play@littlepicassoscafe.com or visit littlepicassoscafe.com Major Mongoose adventure parties Outdoor games included are paintball target shooting. The cabin can be hired for private parties. Bring your own entertainer. Fish Eagle Creek Farm, Somerset West. Contact Jenni: 084 359 4544, fecreek@mweb.co.za or visit majormongoose.co.za Marietjie’s Jumping Castles Hiring out of jumping castles. R250–R300. Contact Marietjie: 021 553 1465, 082 392 3033 or visit jumpingcastle.synthasite.com Planet Kids Standard or themed parties for all, including those with disabilities. They can take care of all your catering needs, and organise additional entertainment such as a magician, a clown, a face painter and a photographer.

10–65 children. From R80 per child.

Contact: 021 788 3070, info@planetkids. co.za or visit planetkids.co.za Scratch Patch Fill a bag of tumblepolished gemstones for R15, R25, R50 or R90. Contact Simon’s Town: 021 786 2020 or V&A Waterfont: 021 419 9429 SWAT Laser Tag Suitable for boys and girls 8 years and older. Contact: 074 188 8777 or visit swatlasertag.co.za Thandi This venue offers wholesome entertainment such as a puppet theatre and playing with wooden train sets. Optional extras include a professional clown, juggling show and face painting. Enquire about catering.

Contact: 021 712 2229, info@thandi.co.za or visit thandi.co.za The Range Offers a marquee plus a grass area and jungle gym. Cost includes basic tables and chairs. Party packs, catering and activities can be arranged. Suitable for summer and winter. Contact: 021 713 2340 or info@therange.co.za

Build-A-Bear Workshop Children make their own cuddly animal, giving it a heart filled with best wishes and personalise it from a selection of outfits and accessories. From R89.

Contact: 08611 BEARS (23277) or visit buildabear.co.za Cape Town Science Centre An enclosed area for your exclusive use for two hours.

Venue hire R120, entry fee R33 per adult and child. Groups of 10 or more.

Observatory. Contact: 021 300 3200 or info@ctsc.org.za CityRock Indoor Climbing Parties include rope-climbing, large-wall climbing, bouldering and more for 6–25 children. R150 per child for two hours. Observatory. Contact: 021 447 1326, diane@cityrock.co.za or visit cityrock.co.za Clay Café ceramic painting parties Painting R65–R85, party boxes R15.

Contact: 021 790 3318, chasms@houtbay. com or visit claycafé.co.za Fun Time Kids halaal party venue Ideal for children 9 months–12 years. There’s a jumping castle and climbing wall. Platters can be ordered. Epping. Contact Salegga: 082 298 1193 or funtymkids@gmail.com Gordons Gymnastics Club A twohour supervised party with games and activities, various play apparatus, a large built-in trampoline, safety foam pit, jumping castle, jungle gym outdoors and braai area. Contact Lana: 021 686 9213, 087 809 0471, info@gordonsct.co.za or visit gordonsct.co.za Jilda G Photographic Studio Have a fun photoshoot party with friends at this photographic studio. Party is two hours long and the fun is captured and saved on CD for the host.

Durbanville. Contact: 082 592 6750 or jilda_g@mweb.co.za Kids’ Grand Prix and Royal Puppet Theatre Specialises in a host of children’s entertainment including Grand Prix, puppet shows, the Zippy Cat and Laser Ace. Glengarry Centre, Vredekloof.

Contact Adrian: 082 905 8910 or adleroux@iafrica.com

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Kidz Playzone Activities include jumping castles and climbing frames, PlayStation and air hockey. Private party rooms. There is a 7m climbing wall, plus sand art or pottery and an art and crafts corner. They offer weekday discounts on parties. From R80 per child. Durbanville. Contact: 021 979 4872, bev@kidzplayzone.co.za or visit kidzplayzone.co.za Let’s Go Bowling Parties For children 6 years and older. From R60; includes one game, a party pack, a game of bowling and a lunch option. Bring your own cake. Contact N1 City: 021 595 2100 or Somerset West: 021 850 0254 Party Playhouse A clean, safe and secure venue complete with junglethemed maze room, ball pond, fairy castle and more. From R70 per child for themed parties. Durbanville. Contact: 072 529 8518, info@partyplayhouse.co.za or visit partyplayhouse.co.za Princess for a Day birthday parties Includes manicure, pedicure, facial, glitter cupcakes, virgin cocktails or decadent hot chocolate and princess party packs.

Birthday girl gets a gift. 4–10 girls. R300 per child. Bree St. Contact: 021 418 1818 or heidi@rolypolyz.co.za Sparkle Pamper Parties Age-appropriate pamper parties for girls aged 4 and older with activities such as face masks, nail painting, hairstyling, make-up, temporary tattoos, foot spas and games. From R550. Contact Courtney: 083 491 0010, pamper.parties@ hotmail.com or visit sparkleparties. withtank.com Spur Steak Ranches Each child gets a selected children’s meal, soda, ice cream and party cup filled with sweets. Invitations optional. Balloons, headdresses and play canyons are available. Contact: 086 000 7787 or visit spur.co.za The Ice Station Ice-skating parties.

From R70 per child. Grand West Casino, Goodwood. Contact: 083 303 4907 The Magic Company A secure party area with entertainment and electronic rides for children. R85–R100, includes chips, cake, luxury party bucket and R60 worth of entertainment. Cakes available to order.

GrandWest Casino. Contact: 021 534 0244 or magiccompanygw@telkomsa.net The Playshed Party venue with catering, a jungle gym, kitchenette, tool shed and dress-up section. T-shirt painting and a treasure hunt can be arranged. Basic or themed parties. R70−R85 per child.

Pinelands. Contact: 021 801 0141/2, playshedparties@gmail.com or visit playshed.appspot.com The Yello Armadillo A venue that has a children’s party shop, and provides novelty snacks, birthday cakes, entertainment, catering and party packs. Also hires out jumping castles and water slides. From R120 per child. Parklands. Contact: 021 557 3460, 082 897 1880, planatdesign@ mweb.co.za or visit yelloarmadillo.co.za World of Birds Have your child’s party in the Mouse House in the natural surrounds of World of Birds. Hout Bay. Contact: 021 790 2730 or info@worldofbirds.org.za

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Drumkidz High-energy drum parties for all ages.

Drum to stories, songs and games. From R725 for up to 45 minutes, includes a gift for the birthday child and an activity sheet for each child.

Cape Town/Helderberg. Contact: 021 434 7610, info@drumkidz.co.za or visit drumkidz.co.za Drumming SA Offers interactive drumming parties for children aged 5 and older. From R1 100 for a 45-minute session. They can also include singing and dancing in the session. Parents are welcome to join in.

Contact: 021 715 2450, 084 686 3872, catherine@drummingsa.co.za or visit drummingsa.co.za TJ’s Music School Discos and music for children’s and adult’s parties. A fourto five-hour disco from R700–R800, depending on distance travelled. Based in Pinelands. Contact: 021 531 7234 (mornings), 072 900 7344 or glenn@ amapct.co.za

Adventure Sports & Tours 4U Mountain bike parties for children 12 years and older, minimum 10 children, R80 per bike. Rock climbing parties for children 10 years and older, R70 per person. Sandboard parties for children 6 years and older, from R70 per person. Contact: 021 696 3631, info@adventure4u.co.za or visit adventure4u.co.za Blue Rock water ski, kneeboard or wakeboard parties If seven of your child’s friends ski, your birthday child skis free of charge. Situated near Sir Lowry’s Pass. Contact: 021 858 1330, 084 366 3233 or visit bluerock.co.za Blokart Heaven Rent a blokart and have a blast on the track. Wind is monitored and instructors supply the right size sail to suit your body weight. From age 8.

Muizenberg. Contact: 021 788 7984, 083 658 8583, markt@blokart.co.za or visit blokart.co.za Boot Camp SA military party The standard 2½ hour package includes the venue, party décor, tea and coffee for parents, activities and invitations.

Suitable for children 6 years and older. Tokai Forest. Contact: 082 455 6723, capetown@bootcamp-sa. co.za or for more party options, visit bootcampbookings.co.za Butterfly World Parties Children’s parties are held in a lapa. R65 per child, which includes catering, one colour-in activity and entry into the tropical garden. Contact: 021 875 5628 or esther@yebo.co.za Cape Farmhouse Restaurant There’s a children’s area and party platters. From R40 per head for platters. Contact Sarah: 021 780 1246, info@capefarmhouse.co.za or visit capefarmhouse.co.za Carousel Carnival Creations Offers an old-time carousel and Little Tommy Train (including driver). R1 300 per item for magazine cape town

three hours; thereafter R150 per hour or R2 000 for both items for three hours and R250 per hour thereafter. Contact Aubrey: 021 919 7447 or oberon@intekom.co.za Driftwood Café The venue holds Ducky Place Parties where children can feed the ducks, play on the jungle gym and jumping castle, play giant checkers, tug of war and fish. Parklands. Contact: 021 557 8886/8401, 072 496 8899, info@ driftwoodcafe.co.za or visit driftwoodcafe. co.za Helderberg Farm Venue for outdoor parties. Create your own party. Entrance fee R16–R25. Contact: 021 855 4308 or visit helderbergfarm.co.za Jolly Roger Pirate Boat Choose from a variety of themes. Robinson Crusoe: R130 per child. Captain Hook: R150 per child.

Jack Sparrow/Tinkerbelle: R180 per child.

Pirate theme cake: R400–R700. Suitable theme cupcakes: R25–R35 each. Contact: 021 421 0909 or visit pirateboat.co.za Laser Games A safe and environmentally friendly party for children aged 7 and up.

R95 per player with minimum 12 players.

Contact Robyn or Rod: 021 790 7603 or info@lasertag.co.za Millstone Farmstall & Café They offer a garden with a ship-themed tree house, swings, a Wendy house, slide and sandpit. Catering according to your budget. Indoor facility with a fireplace available. Children can also watch or ride the horses next door. Tuesday–Sunday, 8am–5pm. Pinelands. Contact Linda: 021 447 8226 or 082 407 8910 or Paul: 082 740 7747 Mobile Putt Putt Includes putters, balls, marker cards. Nine holes available.

Setup takes 20 minutes. Contact: 079 991 0001, craig@imaginet.co.za or visit mobileputtputt.co.za Mondeor Garden & Life A party venue at a restaurant in Somerset West. R40– R120 per child. Contact: 021 858 1608, mondeor@telkomsa.net or visit facebook. com/mondeorgarden&life Party Classics Gazebo rentals, beautiful cream with cream corner curtains 2,8mx2,8m. R350 per gazebo per day.

Contact Djoni: 021 462 6126, 083 455 1028 or djoni.brand@gmail.com Paula’s Party Stuff A huge variety of water slides, jumping castles, ball ponds, play sets, trains-on-tracks and disco lights. They supply cakes, popcorn, candyfloss, tea sets, tables and chairs, photo boards, piñatas and bubble machines. Contact Paula: 021 713 2020 or visit paulaspartystuff.co.za Ratanga Junction Party combinations for children under 1,3m or children over 1,3m. Includes unlimited access to rides appropriate for a child’s height, party pack, ice-cream treat and a gift for birthday child. Century City. Contact Dee: 021 550 8504, 021 550 8566, info@ ratanga.co.za or visit ratanga.co.za SunScene Outdoor Adventures Outdoor parties including sandboarding and an adventure course. Contact Tamarin or Jessica: 021 783 0203, 084 352 4925, info@sunscene.co.za or visit sunscene.co.za magazine cape town

The Blue Train Children will enjoy riding on the train. Contact: 021 434 4297 072 383 8195 or carlomail7@gmail.com The Farmyard This Melkbosstrand venue offers a jungle gym, farmyard playground, animal petting, a children’s car and a jumping castle. Party packs R28 each; cakes from R260. Contact: 021 553 2563 or thefarmyard@telkomsa.net Tygerberg Nature Reserve The venue offers children the opportunity to experience nature and Survivor-type challenges. From R80 per child. Contact Brieta: 083 328 9253, brieta@telkomsa.net or lea-anne.hack@polka.co.za

Absolute Functions Contact Bridget: 072 840 6618, bridget@ absolutefunctions.co.za or visit absolutefunctions.co.za Balancing Act Kids Party Planner Let her stress on your behalf. Southern suburbs. Contact: 076 236 4326 or mamadu06@gmail.com Butterfly Inc. Kids Zone One-stop service from the cake and eats to the décor and thank-you treats. Contact Vanesse: 084 966 6667, butterflyvtw@ hotmail.com or visit butterflyinc.co.za Cherry Dreams Party Décor Themed, pamper and foam parties. They also have party packs. Contact: 082 771 1832 or cherryparties.co.za Crazy Chameleon Kiddies Parties Themed parties with décor for children 1–7 years; they now offer teen parties and candy buffets. Venue of your choice. They supply cakes, party packs, accessories and jumping castles.

Nationwide. Contact: 0861 KIDDIE (543 343), info@crazychameleon.co.za or visit crazychameleon.co.za Crazy Kidz Parties They bake the cake, rent out play equipment such as a jumping castle and water slide, and handle the party setup with table settings and photo boards according to your theme chosen from their website.

Contact: 083 557 7281, 082 567 9119 (sms only) or visit crazykidzparties.co.za Cre8tive Kids Trained entertainers plan parties around various themes and activities. They have a range of themes and structured party ideas, but can also create one to suit your needs. Contact Dan: 084 291 7112, dan@cre8tivekids. co.za or visit cre8tivekids.co.za Dolly Dinkle Organises traditional party games, fantasy dress and vintage-inspired décor. Can deliver. Bree St. Contact Jodi: 082 925 1379 or jodi@eca.co.za Dottibug Parties Hiring out of tables and chairs, linen, accessories, catering and custom-made party packs and face painting. They can do craft parties, make-up parties and more. Contact: 021 712 7810, 083 377 9260 or visit dottibugparties.co.za Enchanted Creations Party hire and décor shop. Price range from R4 to hire chairs to R480 for novelty cakes.

Contact: 084 567 5220 or info@ enchantedcreations.co.za May 2012

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resource

Event Interiors Designs every aspect of your child’s party from the décor, food, invitations and styling to sourcing a venue and entertainment. Contact: 021 447 6065, 082 881 1753, seon@eventinteriors. co.za or visit eventinteriors.co.za Extreme Theme Parties Online shopping for all your party paraphernalia.

Nationwide. For more info: visit extremethemeparties.co.za Fairies and Goggas Party Planners Hires jumping castles, water slides, chocolate fountains, bubble machines, Disney character costumes, children’s tables and chairs and themed décor.

Contact: 082 998 8961, wyngaardtc@ gmail.com or visit fairiesandgoggas.co.za Humpty Jumpty Creates table settings, custom-made centrepieces to fit any theme, cakes, cupcakes, party packs, jumping castles and more. Contact Lise: 021 790 6155, 082 564 0599, humptyjumpty@mweb.co.za or visit humptyjumpty.co.za JellyBean Events Specialises in unique edutainment with new themes such as Mini Masterchef, Make Your Own Music Video, Win it in a Minute and Mr Ice-Cream Maker. Contact: 083 3929 593, info@jellybeanworld.co.za or visit jellybeanworld.co.za Kids Parties Galore Hiring service plus sale of party accessories, costume hire and party coordination. Contact Melanie:

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083 736 0661, info@kidspartiesgalore. co.za or visit kidspartiesgalore.co.za Kids Themed Parties Hire of themed décor, tables, chairs, photo boards, backdrops, cakes and platters, bubble machine, face painting, jumping castles, water slides and disco lighting. Contact: 072 565 1520, donnathemedparties@ gmail.com or visit kidsthemedparties. yolasite.com Little Creations, Kids Event Solutions Coordinates parties to accommodate your budget. Packages for 10 children from R699. Contact: 082 997 3593, abby@little-creations.co.za or visit little-creations.co.za Mangaleka Events They provide catering, décor, audiovisual equipment and assistance with venue hiring.

Contact Nadeem: 079 266 4370, mangalekaevents2@gmail.com or visit http://mangaleka.co.za Monkey Magic Kiddie parties Plans and sets up themed children’s parties. For more info: visit monkeymagic.co.za Ringa Ringa Rosy Plans the party indoors or outdoors, including entertainment, venue sourcing and décor.

Also manufactures and hires out jumping castles. 24-hour helium balloon delivery.

Contact: 021 761 1696, 021 794 6030, info@ringarose.co.za or visit ringarose. co.za. To view the jumping castles, visit jumpingjack.za.net

Unforgettable Events They handle any event, no matter how big or small. They will take care of all the details for you and make your day unforgettable. Southern suburbs. Contact: 084 764 4419 or renate@unforgettableevents.co.za Vanilla Milkshake Events Party planning company that covers venue hire, invitations, décor, catering, party packs, equipment hire and entertainment. Prices on request of a quotation. Contact: 083 320 0469, 072 380 8100 or margot@ vanillamilkshake.co.za Whimsical Parties Provides entertainers, face painters, themed décor, pamper parties, craft parties, party packs, themed cupcakes and catering. Contact: 071 444 0953, whimsicalparties@gmail. com or visit http://awishawaywhimsical. blogspot.com

African Brothers soccer parties Organises and hosts two- to three-hour soccer parties for girls and boys at their venue in Gardens. Contact Craig: 072 425 5983 or craig@abfa.co.za Cricket Parties Ryan Maron Cricket School of Excellence organises two-hour cricket parties. For ages 6–13 years. R500 for 1–12 children with one coach; R1 000 for 13–24 children with two coaches; R1 300 for 24-plus children with three

coaches. Contact: 021 671 9460 or visit cricketschool.co.za Karate Partyz 4 Kidz Karate-themed party and entertainment at your home or at the Bergvliet studio with karate games and demonstrations. Contact: 082 710 7734 Little Kickers Book a football training party. Southern suburbs. Contact: 0861 088 888 or admin@littlekickers.co.za Rugbytots Parties A one-hour party at your venue for boys and girls, led by a trained coach. The birthday child receives a gift. Contact: 079 972 1641 or jp@ rugbytots.co.za Sporting Chance Two-hour parties in one sport or a combination. Choose from rugby, cricket, hockey or soccer. From R600 for one coach. Cape Town and Somerset West. Contact Marike: 021 683 7299, admin@sportingchance.co.za or visit sportingchance.co.za Tag Rugby parties A 90-minute party for boys and girls from age 7. Contact: 0861 002 269, stuart@taggroup.co.za or visit tagrugby.co.za African Brothers Soccer parties including bibs, balls, field and referees. Contact Craig: 072 425 5983 or Alex: 071 115 0231, abfamarketing@gmail.com or visit abfa.co.za Fives Futbol Five-a-side soccer parties.

Green Point. Contact: 072 591 6726 or daniel@5v5.co.za

magazine cape town

how to

party etiquette The party may only last two hours, but it can take weeks to organise.

ANÉL LEWIS gives some quick tips for hosting the perfect bash. invitation dilemma The general rule is to invite as many children as your child’s age, plus one. So if your child is turning seven, invite eight guests. You don’t need to invite the whole class. Just be aware that the school may prefer you not to hand out invites at the school if the whole class is not invited. Some encourage you to send cupcakes or treats for the last day of the month, in lieu of a birthday party. Find out what the school rules are when it comes to invites and birthday celebrations. The type of party you are having will also be a guideline for the guest list. Outdoor parties can accommodate more people. Older children will be able to draw up their own guest list.

PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

snail mail or e-vites?

In today’s world of cyber communication, electronic invites may be easier to send. You can customise the invite according to your child’s theme, using sites such as smilebox.com or evite.com. Marianne Calvert, a former party planner, says the type of invitation you send reflects how you feel about the party. “A printed invitation means you care about the event and it is important to you, so people will keep the invite and be serious about it.”

Children love getting something in the post because

magazine cape town

everything is done electronically these days. You could also drop off the invites at school, depending on their party policy, or call the parents of the children being invited.

Calvert cautions that an sms invite suggests a last-minute decision and should be avoided.

Be sure to include the following on your invite: your child’s name, the date and time of the party, the venue and address, as well as a map if necessary, your contact details and an RSVP deadline. Don’t forget to mention if there is a dress code or theme, so that parents can plan well in advance, and if there are any other activities, such as swimming or outdoor games that would require comfortable clothing and shoes. Include the duration of the party. For younger children, it should be no longer than two hours and should take nap times into account. Send the invites a month in advance, giving parents about two weeks to RSVP so that you have time to plan. Be clear about who is invited.

You don’t want the child to arrive with a sibling or two in tow.

Parents will usually accompany younger children.

party politics With the mix of sugar and adrenalin, there is likely to be at least one meltdown during the party. If it’s your child, take

her aside and quietly encourage her to calm down. “I am a big believer in ‘time out’.” Often all they need is some quiet space and lots of water to drink, and then they are usually ready to go back,” says Calvert. If it is a guest, don’t make a scene in front of the other children. Try and divert the child’s attention with a game, or ask them to help you with an activity. “If they are still out of hand, you should call their parents and ask them to fetch them,” says Calvert.

With younger children, the parent will probably be there to help. Instil good party etiquette in your child from the start. Always remind them to say thank you for gifts, even if it’s something they already have or don’t like. Children are brutally honest, but encourage them to always show gratitude. Get older children to create thank-you cards after the event. Perhaps save the opening of gifts until after the party, especially for children younger than five.

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books

a good read for toddlers The Big Yawn

By Monika Spang and Sonja Bougaeva

ly fami m ti e

(Published by Gecko Press, R105) It’s night-time in the zoo and all the animals are getting sleepy. First to yawn is the tiger.

Then the swans start, and the crocs give in, even though they are in the middle of their fish braai, then the giraffes, the pigs, the lion and Donkey all get sleepy... Soon the whole zoo is ready for bed. We all know how contagious yawning can be and that’s why this is the perfect book for bedtime. Children won’t be able to resist the joyful illustrations of these yawning animals. The story is written in rhyme, which makes it the perfect bedtime tale, and the illustrations are simply delightful.

for preschoolers The Magic Fish Retold by Margie Orford; illustrated by Lizza Littlewort

Zou

By Michel Gay

(Published by Gecko Press, R105) This is the ideal book to read with your child in bed while having a lie-in. Zou, a resourceful little zebra, finds a creative solution to a problem all young children will identify with, making for a sweet and humorous family story that is especially good to read on weekend mornings. How can Zou wake Mom and Dad so they won’t be grumpy? They need coffee, lots of coffee, so Zou sets off for the kitchen to prepare some, and ends up making an entire breakfast. Needless to say, the plan doesn’t work out as he would have wanted it to; with a mess here and a fall there. But it all ends well with a cuddle and a kiss.

for early graders a classic tale

(Published by Jacana Media, R60) One day, a poor fisherman catches a magic talking fish, which he immediately sets free. When he tells his brother what has happened, his brother demands that he asks the magic fish for a bigger house. The magic fish grants the fisherman’s wish.

Will his brother be satisfied or will he be greedy and ask for more? This book is also part of the Best Loved Tales for Africa series and bestselling South African author Margie Orford gives the tale a new twist by replacing the shrewish wife with a demanding brother who insists that the family moves from a grass hut to a brick house. But nothing is ever good enough for him.

Penguin Pandemonium – Little Birds, Big Dreams

By Jeanne Willis (Published by HarperCollins Children’s Books, R65) Children from the age of seven will love this unforgettably funny animal adventure story about a little bird with big dreams from awardwinning author Jeanne Willis. It is one of the titles in the brand-new Awesome Animals series – the funniest fiction, starring the wildest wildlife, from prize-winning authors. Rory, the rockhopper penguin, loves showing off, but with too few visitors to the zoo, life has become a little dull. If things don’t improve the zoo might have to close. So when the keepers install a penguin cam, Rory grabs his chance with both flippers, organising a dazzling penguin talent show to pull in the crowds.

Nicholas and the Gang

By René Goscinny and Jean-Jacques Sempé The Lorax

By Dr Seuss (Published by HarperCollins Children’s Books, R91) “Mister!”, he said with a sawdusty sneeze, “I am the Lorax. I speak for the trees.” The Lorax is the original eco-warrior and his message rings loud today. In this fable about the dangers of destroying our forests, he tries to save the Truffula trees from the greedy Once-ler’s axe. The Lorax is a hilarious story, with its zany humour and silly rhymes that pack a punchy ecological message without feeling heavy-handed. Children of all ages will love, and learn from, this wonderful book, with its Dr Seuss blend of quirky pictures and unique rhyme, rhythm and repetition.

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May 2012

(Published by Phaidon Press, R92) This is another Nicholas book by the French duo for children between the age of eight and 11. Nicholas and his friends always find exciting things to do. Max does conjuring tricks, Geoffrey invents a secret code and Nicholas learns that walking on your hands is much trickier than turning somersaults. The Nicholas books have been constant bestsellers in France and Europe for over 50 years and are fast becoming as popular in the Englishspeaking world. René Goscinny, author of Asterix, and worldrenowned illustrator, Jean-Jacques Sempé, bring Nicholas’s adventures and exploits to life.

magazine cape town

for preteens and teens

for us

The One and Only Ivan

By Katherine Applegate

The Eddie Dickens Trilogy

By Philip Ardagh (Published by Faber Children’s Books, R104) When Eddie Dickens’s parents go yellow, crinkly around the edges and smell of old hot-water bottles, he’s sent away to live with mad Uncle Jack, even madder Aunt Maud and her stuffed stoat called Malcolm. And so begins a series of outrageous adventures involving escaped convicts, missing jewels, cucumberwaving orphans, and a hollow cow called Marjorie. This is a wonderful and awfully funny read for children between the ages of nine and 11. The book contains three complete stories: Awful End, Dreadful Acts and Terrible Times. The author received the Roald Dahl Funny Prize in 2009 for the first book in his Grubtown Tales series.

(Published by HarperCollins Children’s Books, R86) Children, from as young as nine, can enjoy this book which is inspired by a true story. Ivan is a gorilla who is used to humans watching his every move through the glass of his cage.

He can hardly remember his life in the jungle or what happened to his family. That is, until a baby elephant called Ruby arrives. Suddenly Ivan sees his home through new eyes and knows he must do something to make sure Ruby doesn’t end up like him. This is a heart-warming and unforgettable tale of friendship, hope and bravery that no animal lover will be able to resist.

the heart warmer

Cooking for Claudine

By John Baxter (Published by Short Books, R117) This is the charming and improbable tale of how a man who was raised on white bread, and didn’t speak a word of French, unexpectedly ended up with the sacred duty of preparing Christmas dinner for a venerable Parisian family. John Baxter, acclaimed film critic and food lover, fell in love with a French woman and impulsively moved to Paris to marry her. As a test of his love, his sceptical in-laws charged him with cooking the next Christmas banquet. His yearlong quest in search of the country’s finest recipes and ingredients takes readers to the farthest corners of France.

When Hoopoes go to Heaven

By Gaile Parkin

story time for mom and dad

(Published by Atlantic Books, R195) Ten-year-old Benedict loves his family’s new home in Swaziland, with its garden teeming with lizards, birds and butterflies. Here, crouched in the shade of the lucky-bean tree, he can set aside his anxieties about the world, and plan imaginative ways to make things better. Of course, there are many things in Africa that can’t be put right by a boy who isn’t yet big. But in Benedict’s wonder-filled world, even the worst situation has a certain magic. Warm, funny and brimming with life, When Hoopoes go to Heaven will capture your imagination and restore your faith in humanity.

parenting books Parenting Apart

By Christina McGhee

practical advice

(Published by Random House Struik, R215) This is a resource for separated and divorced parents wanting to raise happy and secure children. When a marriage ends, the most important thing parents can do is to help their children through this difficult transition and remain united. Divorce coach McGhee offers practical advice on how to help children adjust and thrive during and after separation and divorce. She looks at all the different issues parents may face with their children of different ages, offering solutions to the most critical parenting problems divorce brings.

magazine cape town

Groovy Adventurers: How to Encourage and Curriculum

By Lourdes Bruwer and Carly Tzanos; illustrated by Claudine Spratley (Published by New Voices Publishing, R250 for the set) With Groovy Adventurers, playing with your baby has never been so much fun. A focus on developmental stages rather than ages allows you to recognise and revel not only in his major achievements, but also his mini milestones.

Create fun-filled challenges for your baby as you understand more of his physical and brain development at each stage. How to Encourage is packed with easy-to-use activities, each carefully selected by occupational therapists to build strong sensory, motor, perceptual and cognitive foundations. With Curriculum, you or your child’s caregiver can plan stageappropriate activities for the week and record your child’s progress.

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41

calendar

what’s on in may

You can also access the calendar online at

childmag.co.za

Here’s your guide for what to do, where to go and who to see. Compiled by LUCILLE KEMP.

5 sat

special events

43

FUN for children

44

only for parents

46

bump, baby & tot in tow

48

how to help

49

SPECIAL EVENTS

FUN FOR CHILDREN

ONLY FOR PARENTS

Breede River Goose boat trips Join in for an idyllic Breede River 1,5-hour boat trip and swim, bass fish, bird watch and camp. Daily river trips available.

Writing workshop A new series of workshops for would-be authors. The eight week course is by Albert Jack whose books have featured on the UK Sunday Times and New York Times Bestseller Lists

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May 2012

bump, baby & tot in tow

how to help

Toddler ballet A fun-filled class, introducing the basics of ballet along with activities and storytelling.

National Plaster Day sponsored

by Elastoplast School learners are encouraged to make a small donation and to wear civvies on 25 May. Funds raised go towards the upgrade and equipping of the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital.

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/NICOLA HAVENGA

Riebeek Valley Olive Festival Visitors to the Olive Emporium can stock up on a wide selection of olives, olive oils, preserves, tapenades and a selection of olive-based beauty products.

5

SPECIAL EVENTS

sat

1 tuesday Safari Half-marathon This year marks the silver anniversary of one of the most popular races on the Western Cape running calendar, challenging runners’ endurance and providing a scenic route. To suit all fitness levels and abilities, runners can choose between the 21,1km run and relay or a 10km walk or 5km fun run. Families can also look forward to great fun and entertainment. Time: 6:50am (21,1km), 9am (5km), 9:30am (10km). Venue: Wellington, “heart of the Boland”. Cost: R20–R60. Contact Lydia: 021 970 7300 or visit safarihalfmarathon.co.za

5 saturday Annual Food Fair Expect fun and games for the whole family and lots of delicious goodies to eat. There are also pony rides and an inflatable playground. Time: 10am.

Venue: CBC St Johns Parklands. Cost: R5 entry. Contact Cathy: 021 556 5969 Riebeek Valley Olive Festival Quaint towns come alive as they showcase the best in food, wine and olives. When you visit the Olive Emporium, stock up on a wide selection of olives, olive oils, preserves, tapenades and a selection of olive-based beauty products. Sit in on tutored tastings or sample the wines at your leisure. Live entertainment helps ensure a truly relaxing experience. Among the many new activities at this year’s festival is a country fair, a fresh goods market as well as an olive martini bar. Also 6 May. Time: 10am. Venue: participating farms, Riebeek Valley. Cost: R80 passport, valid for the weekend. Book through Webtickets: visit webtickets.co.za

6 sunday Delvera Hi-Tec full moon hike Enjoy the sunset over Table Mountain with stunning views of the winelands from the top of Klapmutskoppie. Walk this marked hiking trail through the Renosterveld Conservancy with friends and family. Suitable for children from age 6 years and older. Time: 4pm arrival; 6pm sunset; 6:17pm moonrise.

Venue: Dirtopia Trail Centre, Delvera Farm, R44, Stellenbosch. Cost: adults R50 and children 9 years and younger R20. Contact

magazine cape town

Red Hot Chilli Festival You can learn about the benefits of eating chilli, how to grow chilies in the summer season, and how to preserve them to add flavour to your winter dishes. Taste a wide selection of chilli-infused meals presented by our leading and award-winning traders. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: Stellenbosch Slow Food Market, Oude Libertas St, Oude Libertas, Stellenbosch.

Cost: free entry. For more info: visit slowmarket.co.za

and entertainment. Time: 10am. Venue: Kirstenhof Primary School, Lente St, Kirstenhof. Contact: 021 701 1143 or visit kirstenhofprimary.co.za Constantia Waldorf Kindergarten Fair With crafts to make and games to play, performances by the Rainbow Puppet Theatre and Vinnie from Zok, and a variety of tasty lunches, there is something for everyone. Time: 10am–3pm. Venue: Constantia Waldorf School, Spaanschemat River Rd, Constantia. Cost: free entry.

Contact Sam: 021 788 3030 Mommy and me walk Moms, take your little ones on a relaxed 1,6km walk with mom and on-air personality Saskia Falken leading the pack with her toddler. Funds go to St Joseph’s Home in Montana, which is a home for children with chronic medical conditions who require ongoing nursing and rehabilitative care. Time: 7:45am.

Venue: Canal Walk centre court. Cost: moms R30, children R5. For more info: visit 104.9fm or canalwalk.co.za

13 sunday Arina: 021 884 4752, theteam@dirtopia. co.za or visit dirtopia.co.za Mother’s Day brunch Enjoy breakfast, a mother’s day gift, a fashion show, talks and entertainment. Time: 9am–12pm. Venue: Oracle High School Hall, Old Strandfontein Rd, Ottery. Cost: R75. Contact: 021 704 1462, 074 106 0713, stages@polka.co.za or visit stageslifestyle.co.za

7 monday Big Fish Little Fish Montessori golf day Funds raised are used to purchase new equipment for the school and to assist families in the community by subsidizing school fees where they can.

A portion of all proceeds are donated to Elundini Centre for Disabled Children in Dunoon. Format: four-ball alliance, two to count. Prize-giving and snacks included.

Time: tbc. Venue: Milnerton Golf Course.

Cost: R1 200 per four-ball, R300 per player. Contact Michelle or Kim: 021 556 3453 or bflf@telkomsa.net

12 saturday Kirstenhof Primary School annual fun run There is a food court, an assortment of stalls and a field with games, rides

Mother’s Day annual Table of Peace and Unity Celebrate Mother’s Day in a different way while supporting a good cause. Renowned for its 700-seater table, a sumptuous feast prepared by top South African chefs and excellent entertainment, the day raises funds for charities working with abused, neglected and abandoned children. This year it again includes a children’s table for 40 lucky children, so book early. Time: 12pm. Venue: Table Mountain, Contour Rd. Cost: R400–R500.

Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.co.za Mother’s Day at The Eatery The refreshing Durbanville Hills Merlot Rosé is served on arrival, followed by a feast. Time: 12pm–3pm. Venue: The Eatery, Durbanville Hills winery, Tygerberg Rd (M13). Cost: adults R169, which includes a glass of wine on arrival, lunch and a gift for mom, children R89. Contact: 021 558 1337 or info@dheatery.co.za

producers present are Axe Hill, Boplaas, Calitzdorp Cellar, De Krans and Du’SwaRoo. The historic Calitzdorp Railway Station is the centre for a full programme of events at the various wine cellars and village venues with the annual domino competition winners once again being announced at the festival. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.co.za

19 saturday King’s School craft market and fair Enjoy a family fun day with over 90 craft stalls, delicious eats, jumping castles, face painting and more. Time: 9am–2pm.

Venue: King’s School, next to the His People Centre, N1 City. Contact: 021 595 8902 or Tanya: 084 591 0077 Parklands College and Christopher Robin Preprimary open day The College opens its doors to the public to view its facilities. Time: 10:30am–1pm.

Venue: 91 Raats Dr and 50 Wood Dr, Parklands, 1 College Ave, Sandown. Cost: free. Contact: 0861 EDUCATE, director@ parklands.co.za or visit parklands.co.za Stellenbosch Waldorf School open day There is a programme of talks, question time for parents and activities that children can participate in. The

18 friday Calitzdorp Port and Wine festival Calitzdorp hosts a celebration of their diverse wines, local produce, fauna, flora and natural beauty. Renowned Port

13 May – Mother’s Day annual Table of Peace and Unity

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calendar

FUN FOR CHILDREN art, culture and science

25 May – Friday Night Science Night

talk covers the playgroup (2–4 years), kindergarten (4–6 years), primary and high school faculties. Childcare is offered. Time: 9:30am–12:30pm. Venue: Santa Rd, off Annandale Rd between the R44 and R310, Spier Wine Farm. Cost: free entry. Contact: 021 881 3867, stellenbosch@waldorfschool. org.za or visit waldorfschool.org.za

24 thursday The Good Food and Wine Show This world-class show promises more innovation than ever before to inspire your next dinner party. Highlights for families are the Cooking Club for Kids, ideal for children aged 3–7 years, run by Foodiction and there are special appearances by CBeebies’ Mister Maker. Ends 27 May. Time: 10am–9pm, Thursday–Saturday; 10am–6pm, Sunday.

Venue: CTICC. Cost: varies. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000

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Artjamming art classes Highly experienced art teachers assist. For 5–13 year olds. Time: 3pm–4pm and 4pm–5pm, Monday–Wednesday. Venue: Cape Quarter, Shop 14, Somerset Rd, Green Point. Cost: R150 per class. Contact: 021 421 6129 or visit artjamming.co.za Cartoon competition for ADHD awareness day This competition is open to all adults and children. The cartoon may contain various scenes, consisting of one to eight photos, as long as the whole cartoon story fits on an A4 page. See the website for a guideline to creating the cartoon. The name and age of entrant and their own title for the work must be clearly inserted on the bottom right hand side of the cartoon. All entries to reach them by 31 May. Prizes are announced as soon as they are finalised. By entering the competition, you also give permission for the winners’ artwork to be used in an Adhasa leaflet.

The age groups are: 6–9 and 10–13 years old, 14–16, 17–18 and 18 plus years old.

Win cash prizes, board games, biolink tests, flexi-bar equipment and the book Proud to be ADHD. Send your entry to carina@ adhasa.co.za or Adhasa National Office at PO Box 3704, Randburg, 2125. For more info, contact Adhasa: 011 888 7655, info@ adhasa.co.za or visit adhasa.co.za Darling Museum crafters’ open day See traditional crafters at work as they showcase their talents. There is a car boot

Friday Night Science Night End the working week with a bang and bring the family along for a night of fun. Refreshments and light meals available for purchase. Time: 5pm–9pm. Venue: Cape Town Science Centre, Observatory. Cost: R25. Contact: 021 300 3200 or info@ctsc.org.za

12 and 26 May – Half-day ceramics workshop

depending on age. Contact Kathy: 083 654 2494, info@kidzdiscovery.co.za or visit kidzdiscovery.co.za Sue Nepgen’s children’s art classes Thursday class starts 3 May; Friday class starts 4 May; Saturday class starts 5 May. Children from any school attend classes once a week, where the emphasis is on fostering creativity, self-esteem and an enjoyment of art, while learning techniques and a sense of aesthetics. The programme includes drawing and painting people and portraits in various media, etching in oils, clay relief work and textured collage. For ages 4–13 years. Time: afternoons and Saturday mornings. Venue: Michael Oak Waldorf School, Kenilworth or 28 Klaasenbosch Drive, Constantia. Cost: R550 a term, including materials and firing.

Pro-rata fees for late joiners. Contact Sue: 021 794 6609, 083 237 7242 or snepgen@ xsinet.co.za

classes, talks and workshops

31 thursday Woolworths Brain Food for Exams Mom’s Tour A dietician-led store tour to give parents creative ideas for feeding children all the nutrients they need during exam time. Time: tbc. Venue: Woolworths, Cavendish Square, Cavendish St, Claremont. Cost: tbc. Contact: amandamhluzi@woolworths.co.za

sale and tea garden, too. Bring the family and friends along to discover and enjoy the wonderful museum. All ages. 19 May. Time: 10am–2pm. Venue: Darling Museum, corner Pastorie and Hill St, Darling, West Coast. Cost: free entry. Contact Dianne: 022 492 3361 or info@darlingtourism.co.za Doodle Creative Space art classes Classes teach spatial perception, handeye coordination, observational skills and techniques. Time: call to enquire. Venue: Gardens. Cost: call to enquire. Contact: 084 533 3569, doodlecreativespace@ gmail.com or visit doodlecreative.co.za Free two-hour introductory fabric painting workshop For adults and children. Time: 8:45am–10:45am. Venue: Pinelands. Cost: R30 for kit. Holiday classes are offered. Weekday classes also for adults at Frank Joubert Art Centre. Contact Wendy: 021 531 8076, 082 391 4954 or wendyadriaan@telkomsa.net Half-day ceramics workshop 12 May: Make an African pot with beads and geometric designs under the guidance of ceramic artists Chuma and Madoda.

Suitable for ages 7 years and older. 26 May: Make an African animal. Time: 9:30am–12:30pm. Venue: Art in the Forest, Cecilia Forest, ERF 839 Constantia, Rhodes Drive, Constantia Nek. Cost: R150 per child, which includes juice and muffins and all materials for the workshop plus glaze and firing. Contact Bianca: 021 794 0291 or bianca@lightfromafrica.com Kidz Discovery art and crafts classes Designed for the 4- and 5-year-old age bracket and 6–12 year olds. Cost: varies

24 May – The Good Food and Wine Show

Drumkidz weekly drumming workshop Action-packed, high-energy Djembe drumming. Time: 1:30pm and 2:30pm, every Thursday during school term. Venue: Church of Christ, cnr Irene Ave and Lourensford Rd, Somerset West.

Cost: R45 for 30 minutes of high-energy drumming or R140 for four consecutive weeks. Contact Lana: 071 871 5839 or lana@drumkidz.co.za. Also at Big Bay. Time: 1:30pm–2pm, every Wednesday. Venue: Crazee Daisee’s Play Centre, Seaside Village Shopping Centre. Cost: R310 for eight lessons. Contact Melanie: 079 161 3999 or melanie@drumkidz.co.za

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deck or indoors at the warm fireside.

Time: 12pm. Venue: R317, Bonnievale Rd, between Robertson and Bonnievale.

Contact: 023 615 1017

markets

Table Mountain Cableway Kidz’ Season special Two children under 18 years ride free when an adult return ticket is purchased over weekends, public holidays and school holidays. Children receive a treasure hunt map and are taken on an exciting adventure the minute they arrive at the top station. Families can explore the picturesque landscape, hunt for dassies and get a glimpse of the beautiful fynbos flowers as they follow the map around this New Wonder of Nature. Special runs from 1 May to 31 October. Contact: 021 424 8181 or visit tablemountain.net

Kidz Discovery Baby and Toddler mother and child groups Ageappropriate child development classes, from babies of three months old to preschoolers, in art and tactile exploration, language, fine and gross motor development, visual motor play, funky experiments and fun learning. Time: call to enquire. Venue: The Drive, Camps Bay. Cost: varies. Contact Kathy: 083 654 2494, info@kidzdiscovery. co.za or visit kidzdiscovery.co.za Learn to cook with McCain McCain treats children to a day of cooking with Little Cooks Club. The cooking workshop aims to develop a passion for good food in children while allowing mom a day off.

Each class hosts 10 children and places are limited. Suitable for children ages 7–11 years. 11 May. Time: 3pm–5pm. Venue: Durbanville. Cost: free. Contact Lisa: 073 227 3404 or lisab@littlecooksclub.co.za Tots n Pots cooking and baking workshop Cook a variety of healthy snacks, meals and yummy treats such as Mother’s Day fruit tarts, tuna pasta bake and banana pineapple muffins. Time: 3pm–4pm, every Wednesday and Thursday for 2–6 year olds; 10am–11am, every Saturday for 2–10 year olds. Venue: Constantia Tots n Pots. Cost:

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Baby and Kids Lifestyle Market Exhibitors offer a gorgeous selection of designer and handcrafted items, bestquality pre-loved baby and children’s clothes and imported toys. There is also a variety of children’s activities including sand art, crafts, cupcake icing and a jumping castle. The market is perfect for new moms until their children reach 10 years old. 5 May. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: varies, visit their website for details. Cost: adults R10, children under 12 free. Contact Taryn: 083 309 8024, babyandkids@mweb.co.za or visit babyandkidsmarket.co.za

Breede River Goose boat trips Join in for an idyllic Breede River 1,5-hour boat trip and swim, bass fish, bird watch and camp. Daily river trips available. Booking essential. Time: call to enquire. Venue: Bonnievale. Cost: R60. Contact: 082 759 5727 or visit robertsonwinevalley.com

family outings Canal Walk Motor Show This energypacked, adrenalin-fuelled motor show is pure petrol-head paradise while still being family friendly. There are new vehicle launches, bikes and more. 26 April–1 May. Time: 9am–9pm. Venue: Canal Walk. Cost: free. Contact Vanessa: 021 529 9638 or vanessah@canalwalk.co.za Viljoensdrift cruises and picnics They offer wine tastings and one-hour boat cruises. Create your own picnic from the delectable items on the deli menu. This may be enjoyed on the boat, on their riverside

African Footprint 22 May–11 June. Time: 2pm, 6pm and 8pm, Tuesday–Sunday.

Venue: Artscape Theatre. Cost: R100. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or Artscape Dial-A-Seat: 021 421 7695 City of Cape Town acting competition This national competition for learners from Grade 8 to Grade 12 focuses on individual acting ability. After nationwide elimination rounds, 60 competitors are invited to take part in the final four rounds. 17 and 18 May. Time: 10am. Venue: Artscape Theatre. Cost: free. For more info: visit artscape.co.za Little Red Riding Hood The show is presented by Rainbow Puppet Theatre.

5, 12, 19 and 26 May. Time: 10am and 11:15am. Venue: Constantia Waldorf School, Spaanschemat River Rd, Constantia.

Cost: adults and children R20. Contact Alison: 021 783 2063 or therainbow. puppettheatre@gmail.com

playtime and story time

R720 per term/eight weeks or R90 per class if space available. Contact Hannah: 082 569 8666, constantia@totsnpots.com or visit totsnpots.com

finding nature and outdoor play

on stage and screen

5 May – Baby and Kids Lifestyle Market

Nitida Farmers’ Market Come for coffee and buy your old favourites – free-range eggs, fresh baked bread from Bethlehem Bread, veggies straight from the market and much more from 45 different stalls. 26 May. Time: 8am–12:30pm. Venue: Cassia Restaurant, Nitida, M13/Old Tygervalley Rd, Durbanville. Cost: free. Contact: 083 651 0699, getha@nitida.co.za or visit nitida.co.za Porter Estate Produce Market This well-established outdoor market set in a forest is the perfect place to be with your family on a crisp summer morning. With 70 vendors to buy from, you can get your fresh produce, fill up on a farm-style breakfast, and get some choice deli items while the children are kept busy with various activities. Time: 9am–1pm, every Saturday. Venue: Tokai. Cost: free entry. For more info: visit outdoormarket.co.za

Fish Hoek Library Story times take place with related handcraft sessions. Time: 11am, every Friday. Venue: Fish Hoek Main Rd. Cost: free. Contact: 021 784 2030/1 or fishhoek.library@capetown.gov.za Hout Bay Library The library runs story time when they read stories, colour in and watch a movie. Time: 10am, every Friday. Venue: Melkhout Crescent. Cost: free. Contact: 021 790 2150 or houtbay. library@capetown.gov.za

22 May–11 June – African Footprint

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calendar Little Picasso’s Café The café has an indoor play centre, outdoor water slide and splash pool, a baby playroom, bunny touch farm and an activity room for children’s cooking and gardening. Time: 1pm–5pm, Monday–Friday; 9am–5pm, Saturday; 9am–2pm, Sunday. Venue: 4 Northumberland Way, Parklands. Cost: call to enquire. Contact: 021 557 7950, 082 990 5394, play@littlepicassoscafe.com or visit littlepicassoscafe.com Meadowridge Library The library has a separate children’s section and a beautiful courtyard. Story time is ideal for ages 3–6 years. Time: 10:15am, every Wednesday.

Venue: cnr Howard Dr and Firgrove Way. Cost: free. Contact: 021 712 9360 or meadowridge.library@capetown.gov.za Muizenberg Library Their children’s story times are ideal for 2–7 year olds.

Time: 3pm, every Tuesday. Venue: Atlantic Rd. Cost: free. Contact: 021 788 5263 or muizenberg.library@capetown.gov.za Noordhoek Farm Village activities Ideal for children 3–10 years. Time: 10:30am–12:30pm, every Saturday. Venue: The Bandstand, Noordhoek Farm Village.

Cost: free. Contact: 021 789 2812 or visit noordhoekvillage.co.za Observatory Library They hold story-time sessions with babies and toddlers. Time: 11am, every Wednesday. Venue: Station Rd. Cost: free. Contact: 021 447 9017 or observatory.library@capetown.gov.za Story time at the Book Lounge Story time is themed. Time: 11am, every Saturday.

Venue: 71 Roeland St. Cost: free. Contact: 021 462 2425 or visit booklounge.co.za

sport and physical activities Fun day football practice Cape Town’s premier child soccer academy hosts a fun day event that teaches children about the importance of healthy living and outdoor activity. For children aged 3–13 years. 5 May. Time: 9:15am–11am.

Venue: St Ledger Rd, Claremont. Cost: free.

Contact Sebastijan: 079 671 8971 or visit footballacademyplus.com

Learn to rock climb

Learn to rock climb Children aged 10 years and older are taught how to rock climb in a fun, friendly and safe environment.

This is an outdoor activity and children get in touch with nature. Time: 8am–12pm, every Saturday. Venue: Table Mountain.

Cost: R90. Contact Haadin: 083 356 5591 or visit adventure4u.co.za Sporting Academy winter soccer extramurals For ages 5–13 years. Term two starts 7 May. Time: daily classes vary, 12:30pm–5pm. Venue: Newlands, Constantia and the False Bay region. Cost: call to enquire. Contact: 084 777 1212

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Yoga Market Children’s yoga class and demo. Suitable for 4–12 year olds. 5 May. Time: 10am–11am. Venue: Tokai Library.

Cost: free. Contact Nicole: 083 377 9248 or info@lila-yogatherapy.com

only for parents classes, talks and workshops CPR family and friends course At the end of this professional emergency care course, you are issued with a card that is recognised by Discovery and qualifies you for Vitality points. 5 May. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Constantia Mediclinic.

19 May. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Milnerton Mediclinic. Cost: R250. Contact: 021 705 6459, training@pec.co.za or visit pec.co.za Head Start child development course A four-week course run by a trained psychologist who also focuses on parenting skills. 2, 9, 16 and 23 May. Time: 9am–11am. Venue: Kirstenhof. Cost: R1 250. Contact Catrin: 071 334 5627, catrin@head-start.co.za or visit head-start. co.za. Enquire about the Head Start nanny training course that runs on Fridays.

Ladies’ craft classes These cover fabric painting, decoupage, mosaics and jewellery beading. Register by 4 May. 7, 14, 21 and 28 May. Time: 10am–1pm, every Friday. Venue: Ottery. Cost: R100– R350. Contact: 021 704 1462, 074 106 0713 or stages@polka.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. 19 May. Time: 10am–12pm. Venue: Pinelands. Cost R220. Contact Lee-Ann: 021 531 4182 or 072 283 7132 Personal Financial Management for Women The course covers household budgets. Register by 30 April for 2 and 9 May. Time: 10am–12:30pm, every Wednesday. Venue: Ottery. Cost: R150.

Contact: 021 704 1462, 074 106 0713 or stages@polka.co.za Quilting workshop Hosted by quality, knowledgeable and committed quilting and craft teachers. Maximum 12 guests.

Complimentary tea and coffee is offered and full-day workshop attendees are provided with a light lunch. Time: call to enquire.

Venue: Dot’s Quilts, 17 Hewett Ave, Epping 2. Cost: R120–R150 a day. Contact: 021 535 1233 or visit dotsquilts.co.za Writing workshops with Albert Jack A new series of workshops for wouldbe authors. The eight-week course explores the skills and techniques that could see your manuscript getting positive attention. Albert Jack has enjoyed seeing his 11 non-fiction books reach best-seller status with more than 20 months between the UK Sunday Times and New York Times best seller lists. His latest book, released in South Africa in March 2012, It’s a Wonderful Word (Random House) takes us into the real origins of more than 500 of the strangest, funniest sounding and most downright delightful words in the English language. Did you know that an assassin is a hashish eater and that magazine cape town

26 May – Miller ultra-marathon mountain bike

you should never set down your tumbler before finishing your drink? 15 May– 3 July. Time: 6pm–8pm. Venue: Cape Town Central Library. Cost: R2 800.

Contact: workshops@albertjack.com

only” nightclubs and a recording contract.

1 May–31 August. Time: varies. Venue: The Fugard Theatre. Cost: R100–R130. Book through Artscape-Dial-A-Seat: 021 461 4554 or Computicket: 0861 915 8000

on stage and screen

out and about

Kat & the Kings David Kramer and Taliep Petersen’s smash hit musical comes home to District six. Set in South Africa in the 1950s, the sensational musical explores the journey of teenager Kat Diamond, who is convinced that he is the best singer and dancer in District Six. He forms the a cappella group the Cavalla Kings with his friends. The quintet, with their American doo-wop and rock and roll influences becomes a sensation, graduating from street corners to “whites

Avondale Eco Tours This tour takes visitors on a journey through the beautiful, 300-year-old farm and shares the insight and inspiration behind Avondale’s organic and biodynamic approach to winemaking.

The tour includes a welcome at Avondale’s Tasting Gallery, a comprehensive vineyard tour and a visit to the state-of-the-art gravity flow cellar. Each tour is catered for individually and is by appointment only.

Time: 10am–4pm, Wednesday–Friday.

Venue: Avondale Estate, Drakenstein, South Paarl. Cost: R200. Contact: wine@ avondalewine.co.za Old Cape Wine Shop wine tasting With just under 1 000 bottles on the shelves, only the best wine and bubbly make the grade. Time: 11am–2pm, every Saturday.

Venue: Old Cape Wine Shop, Imhoff Farm.

Cost: free. Contact: 021 783 5054, info@ ocws.co.za and for details of May’s tasting calendar visit imhofffarm.co.za RE:CM 100 Miller ultra-marathon mountain bike South Africa’s top mountain bikers and marathon junkies once again test their endurance levels during this awe-inspiring mountain bike ultra-marathon in the Swartland. For riders keen to get a taste of endurance riding, the event offers a shorter option of 80km, starting at the halfway mark.

The 160km route is divided into three sections of approximately 55km, with two compulsory timing checkpoints. The format of the race creates perfect vantage points for spectators and supporters. While the competition is based on solo riders completing the entire course, these riders can form four-man teams with the team results based on the fourth rider crossing the line, thereby encouraging teamwork and camaraderie. 26 May. Time: 7:30pm.

Venue: Malmesbury. Cost: varies. Contact: 021 884 4752 or visit amarider.co.za

Sie Weiss Alles This show sees the return of the much-acclaimed writer and performer James Cairns. It’s Berlin, 1945. The Third Reich has collapsed, the Russians are hours away and the thoughts of the remaining SS personnel are on escape and survival. An SS officer’s orders are to question a young woman. 9 May–2 June.

Time: 8:30pm, Wednesday– Saturday. Venue: Kalk Bay Theatre.

Cost: R75–R295. For more info: visit kbt.co.za

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support groups Bipolar Awareness Day support group meetings 26 May. Time: 6pm. Venue: Herzlia Middle School, MH Goldschmidt Ave (off Deerpark Drive), Highlands Estate.

26 May. Time: 1pm. Venue: Stellenbosch University, Committee Room, 37 Victoria St, Stellenbosch. 30 May. Time: 10am. Venue: Observatory, Valkenberg Hospital, Main Hall, Observatory Rd, Observatory.

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calendar LGBTI Parents support group Regular meetings for gay and lesbian parents or parents-to-be, who exchange ideas and experiences. If interested in joining, contact the Triangle Project: 021 448 3812, health2@triangle.org.za or visit triangle.org.za

bump, baby & Tot in tow

classes, talks and workshops Antenatal Course Prenatal information and postnatal support for expecting parents.

19 May–16 June. Time: 9am–12pm, every Saturday. Venue: Church-on-Main, southern suburbs. Cost: R500 per couple. Contact: jane@philiptimberlake.com Head Start Baby Proof Your Relationship workshop The workshop concentrates on areas that help you to keep your relationship healthy and happy, to become aware of the stumbling blocks a relationship can face and to learn to communicate about these issues in an appropriate way. 5 and 19 May. Time: 9am–12:30pm. Venue: Clifton. Cost: R1 390 per couple. Contact: 071 334 5627, catrin@ head-start.co.za or visit head-start.co.za Moms and Babes Claremont Join these mom and baby stimulation classes.

Ideal for ages 2–12 months. Time: 10am and 3pm, Monday–Thursday. Venue: 36 Water St, Claremont. Cost: call to enquire.

Contact Di: 021 671 8690 or 082 746 3223

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Motherhood Matters baby massage classes The course is run over four weeks in small groups of around six moms and babies. The group covers the benefits of massage. The moms also find support in each other and are able to get ongoing breast-feeding support from Lynn. Time: 10am–11:30am, every Wednesday. Venue: Kirstenhof. Cost: R500. Contact Megan: 071 875 2668 or visit motherhoodmatters.co.za Mothers Milk breast-feeding workshops This is a two-hour once-off intensive workshop for half the price of a hospital appointment that shows you everything you need to know to succeed at breast-feeding first or second time around.

Time: 6pm–8pm, every Wednesday.

Venue: Kids’ Emporium, Tokai. Cost: call to enquire. Contact Katherine: 083 445 0664 or katherine@mothersmilk.co.za Parent Centre moms-to-be and moms-and-babies group Time: 10am–12pm. Venue: Kingsbury Hospital, maternity section, second floor, Wilderness Rd, Claremont. Cost: R40, including refreshments. Contact: 021 762 0116 or zaiboe@theparentcentre.org.za Sugar and Spice nanny training Empower your domestic worker with all the skills, knowledge and confidence she needs to care for your baby in a loving and safe environment. Includes first aid, routines, hygiene, nutrition and age-appropriate games. Time and cost: call to enquire.

Course starts in Panorama on 15 May.

Yoga classes Gentle yoga sequenced to suit children, pre-teens or teens. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 May. Time: 1:30pm–2:15pm for children, 2:30pm–3:15pm for pre-teens, 3:30pm–4:30pm for teens. Venue: Lila, 201 Bree St. Cost: children R65 drop-in or R495 per term; preteen and teen R70 drop-in or R520 per term. Contact Nicole: 083 377 9248, info@lila-yogatherapy.com or visit lila-yogatherapy.com

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Contact Caithe: 071 366 4725, caithe@ nannytraining.co.za or visit nannytraining. co.za. Course starts in Claremont on 23 May. Contact Kirsten: kirsten@nannytraining. co.za or visit nannytraining.co.za The Mama Bamba Way antenatal weekend workshop Birth preparation classes for creating an empowering and transformative birth experience for women, their partners and their babies. The course consists of 15 hours’ group instruction. 12 and 13 May. Time: 10am–5pm, daily. Venue: Constantia. Cost: R1 500 per couple. R300 for a copy of The Mama Bamba Way: Inner Pathways Back to the Power and Pleasure of Birth and a copy of the CD, The Mama Bamba Way: Guided Relaxation for Birth. Maximum five couples per class. Contact Robyn: 021 712 0298, robyn@mamabamba.com or visit mamabamba.com Toddler ballet Fun-filled class, introducing the basics of ballet with fun activities and storytelling. Ideal for children from 3 years. Time: 3pm–3:30pm, every Thursday.

Venue: 4 Northumberland Way, Parklands.

Cost: R120 a month. Contact Kate: 072 427 7208, play@littlepicassoscafe.com or visit littlepicassoscafe.com Tots n Pots cooking and baking workshop Cook a variety of healthy snacks, meals and yummy treats such as Mother’s Day fruit tarts, tuna pasta bake and banana pineapple muffins.

Time: 3pm–4pm, every Wednesday and Thursday for 2–6 year olds; 10am–11am,

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every Saturday for 2–10 year olds. Venue: Constantia Tots n Pots. Cost: R720 per term of eight weeks or R90 per class if space available. Contact Hannah: 082 569 8666, constantia@totsnpots.com or visit totsnpots.com

playtime and story time Claremont Library A toddler story time is held throughout the year, which incorporates singing and movement. Time: 10am, every Wednesday. Venue: Library Square, Wilderness Rd. Cost: free. Contact: 021 674 4195/6 or claremont.library@ capetown.gov.za Wriggle and Rhyme A relaxed, fun group where you and your baby or toddler can enjoy music and movement together.

Classes combine singing, movement and rhythm using percussion instruments. Time: 9am or 10:30am. Venue: Bergvliet (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday), Claremont (Tuesday), Constantia (Wednesday), Fish Hoek (Tuesday) and Sun Valley (Wednesday, Thursday and Friday), Wynberg (Thursday at 8:45am). Cost: R430 per term, plus a once-off registration fee of R120 that includes a fun welcome pack with a T-shirt and CD. Contact Kirsty: 079 740 4561, info@wriggleandrhyme.co.za or visit wriggleandrhyme.co.za

support groups Hi Hopes programme Offers families of deaf babies home-based, family-centred

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support and information. Contact Renee: 021 949 9388, 076 891 8188 or devilliers. renee@gmail.com La Leche League’s breast-feeding support groups Panorama 7 May. Contact Carol: 021 558 5319. Durbanville 15 May. Contact Trudy: 021 913 2816 or Tiffany: 021 913 3586. Parow 16 May. Contact Dilshaad: 021 930 2475. Milnerton MediClinic on May 1 at 9:30am. Contact Juliet: 021 556 0693. Parklands Intercare on 23 May. Contact Simela: 021 553 1664. Time: unless otherwise stated, classes, start at 10am. Cost: free.

Little Miracle support group For parents of premature babies. Contact: 0861 548 853, info@littlemiracle.co.za or visit littlemiracle.co.za Postnatal Depression Support Association The organisation offers help for moms and their families. You can also join the chat group. Contact the national helpline or sms “help” and your name to 082 882 0072 for them to contact you. For more info, visit pndsa.org.za

how to help Celebrity charity golf day The Academy for Adults with Autism hosts a Celebrity Golf Day on 3 May, where each four-ball has an opportunity to play with a sporting celebrity. Funds raised are used to establish a residential home

Collect-a-Can national schools competition

for young adults with autism. Time: 10am. Venue: Rondebosch Golf Club, Klipfontein Rd. Cost: varies, call to enquire. Contact Debbie: 021 788 7652, info@adultswithautism.org.za or visit adultswithautism.org.za

Collect-a-Can national schools competition Do you care about the environment you live in? Your child can be a hero by helping their school raise funds while taking care of the environment. All they have to do is collect as many cans as possible and stand a chance to win a share of R230 000 for your school. There are also monthly prizes to be won. Suitable for 7–18 year olds. Ends 31 October. Contact Janette: 011 466 2939 or for more info and an entry form: visit collectacan.co.za Help the Rural Child charity bookshop The store stocks masses of well-priced children’s books. Visit their stores in Mowbray, Kirstenhof or Sea Point. Contact: 021 689 8392 National Plaster Day sponsored by Elastoplast School learners are encouraged to make a small donation and wear civvies on 25 May, and enter a competition to win cash for their school. Funds raised go towards the upgrade of the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, specifically the B2 Ward, which treats the youngest and sickest patients. Stickers cost between R1 and R10. Contact Tara: 021 659 1794

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 4 May for the June issue, and must include all relevant details. No guarantee can be given that it will be published. To post an event online, visit childmag.co.za

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anél’s finishing touch

party pandemonium First birthdays are really about the grown-ups, says ANÉL LEWIS, so make sure there’s plenty to keep them entertained.

t

Anél and Erin

hings got out of hand pretty quickly at Erin’s first birthday party. There were cupcakes strewn on the floor, bottle tops in the pond and the inflatable pool had to be pumped up again after an energetic wrestling match – and that was just from the adults’ activities. Managing the handful of guests under the age of five was a breeze, barring their odd complaint about the bubble mixture that was more water than soap and the shortage of Barney-themed juice packs. It was the adults who needed constant supervision.

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I was initially quite blasé about the whole planning thing. I reckoned we would set aside a couple of hours on a Saturday, let Erin blow out a candle on a cake I had made and then watch her open a few presents.

But I was unaware that preparations for a parallel party, with far more grandiose dimensions, were already well underway.

It seems I had underestimated the grownups’ enthusiasm to celebrate.

Before I knew it, we were moving garden furniture to accommodate a 3kg lamb for the spit. Spit? What happened to my idea of cake and maybe a few bowls of marshmallows? No, it seems it had been decided that we needed to go large for this important milestone, and the men wanted meat – and lots of it.

Erin decided to take her nap as the guests arrived, so she was nowhere to be seen for the first hour. When she

did emerge, the heat combined with the surprise of a house full of people made her less than congenial. Fortunately, her friends were too busy poking holes in the gifts to really notice.

I squeezed her into a party frock for the obligatory photo, and then let her mingle with the guests wearing just a vest and her nappy. She’s going to hate me when I blow up those images for her 21st birthday party.

I am no baker. I last made rock buns for my home economics class when I was in Grade 9, and added salt instead of sugar to the mixture. Needless to say, I switched to art soon after that. So I begged a talented colleague to make Erin a beautiful bear cake. However, I was still determined to contribute in some way, and I made a batch of cupcakes. The only ready-made mix I could find came with iridescent pink

icing and sparkles. And yes, they tasted as artificial as they looked. I’m still finding bits of ossified cupcake stuffed into the corners of our outdoor furniture – no doubt from guests desperately trying to dispose of the noxious things.

Several long hours after the party started, the celebration was still in full swing. The spit was still turning, albeit a bit dejectedly, in the fading light, someone had locked themselves in the spare bathroom and yet another impromptu wrestling match had ended in tears. And no, there was not a child in sight.

Next year I’m hiring a jumping castle, and some entertainment for the children as well.

Anél Lewis is Child magazine’s features editor. By the time you read this, she will have had her second baby and will probably be planning his first party.

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